Wow...Potty training little boys is HARD WORK!
My Connor (who is almost 4) took over a year to fully potty train. It was a long, frustrating year, but I learned to be more patient with him and to respect his personality, which is much like his father's.
Avery, however, just decided one day to wear underwear, and keep them clean and dry. He's only 2-1/2 and rarely has accidents where he wets himself. However, he has yet to master pooping in the toilet.
Today, I had to deal with BOTH boys and their poop!
Connor has an upset stomach and diarrhea. He had a small accident at MOPS when he couldn't make it to the bathroom quickly enough to use the toilet. I had to go help him get cleaned up...and he was worried I would be mad at him! Poor baby! I used the time in the bathroom with him to talk about how proud of him I am, and that he is a good boy. He cried because the only thing I had to change him into was Avery's rubber pants and sweatpants that were way too small for him. However, he was relieved when I did not make him go back to class, because he was embarrassed that his teachers knew this happened. Lesson learned, and I am very proud of my sensitive boy.
Avery waited until we got home to have his accident and leave his poop on the FLOOR in the hallway about 5 minutes after he used the toilet. Why, oh why, can't he let it out on the toilet?
I sat in the bathroom with him 5 minutes before his accident. I had told him how proud of him I was, and that he was such a big boy. He did not put his underwear back on. No big deal...until the poop goes on the floor! YUCK! So, he had to help me clean up the floor, and his little tush.
I wish I knew the magic trick of how to get Avery to go #2 in the toilet. It took Connor forever to learn how.
What I do know, is that my attitude toward the #2 is the key to making this successful, and not driving me crazy. I am taking the poop, wherever it may come, and making it into fertilizer, and thanking God for the opportunity to spend the time with my boys...talking, appreciating, and loving them, every step of the way!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
FREE/Cheap Melissa & Doug Toys at Gilt.com
To all my deal-seeking friends...I wanted to share this with you!
If you sign up for Gilt.com - a website that carries amazing deals on great designers - you can get a credit of $20.00 in your cart - just for signing up!!
I can get a $25 credit if you sign up using my link:
http://www.gilt.com/invite/mileskri
I hope you can all find something fun!
I bought the Melissa & Doug Monster Bowling Set for my boys - and only paid $6.95 for shipping! :)
Enjoy!
If you sign up for Gilt.com - a website that carries amazing deals on great designers - you can get a credit of $20.00 in your cart - just for signing up!!
I can get a $25 credit if you sign up using my link:
http://www.gilt.com/invite/mileskri
I hope you can all find something fun!
I bought the Melissa & Doug Monster Bowling Set for my boys - and only paid $6.95 for shipping! :)
Enjoy!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Done with Diapers!!!
The Miles Mob is DONE WITH DIAPERS!!!
Forever!!!
Avery has potty trained himself and is now wearing big-boy underwear full time!
One problem for mommy - he refuses to go #2 in the toilet!
UGGH!!
I would much rather wash out a pair of underwear each day than have to change diapers!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord!
He was so easy to train!
Here comes the joke in this whole thing...
today when he lay down for his nap, Avery says,
"Mommy, I'm playing with my penis!"
As I look down, he has figured out that there is a hole in the underpants where he can fish his little male part out and see it!
We had to have the discussion that penises are body parts, not toys!
Two-year-olds are so much fun!
Forever!!!
Avery has potty trained himself and is now wearing big-boy underwear full time!
One problem for mommy - he refuses to go #2 in the toilet!
UGGH!!
I would much rather wash out a pair of underwear each day than have to change diapers!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord!
He was so easy to train!
Here comes the joke in this whole thing...
today when he lay down for his nap, Avery says,
"Mommy, I'm playing with my penis!"
As I look down, he has figured out that there is a hole in the underpants where he can fish his little male part out and see it!
We had to have the discussion that penises are body parts, not toys!
Two-year-olds are so much fun!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Adrenaline makes a Super Mom
Our kids are growing so quickly!
They eat, exercise, learn and grow every day!
Ryanna is dancing her little heart out every week in her dance class, while she is sprouting a little more height. She is growing her hair out to donate to kids who don't have hair for various reasons. I am so proud of her giving spirit!
Connor eats all the time! He is very tall for his age, and seems to be a conscientious child. He loves gymnastics and to make new friends. He also likes to plan parties and pretend play. He is learning to write his name. How exciting.
Avery is potty-training. He has worn underwear, and decided to keep them clean and dry! What an accomplishment! He's so big!
We had an exciting and scary moment at Bible Study this week.
Connor and Avery had finished eating their lunch, and were playing with some other children, when a stack of heavy round tables fell on top of Connor!!
I ran around to find Connor pinned under a stack of 5 round banquet tables.
The adrenaline in my body allowed me to pull the tables off him, and pick him up before I could even think about it.
I could not believe how easily those tables moved...they were so heavy! I have had to move them one-by-one by myself before, and was amazed at how heavy just one table is!
I am very thankful that my children are healthy, and happy, and that the Lord made adrenaline so this loving mom could turn into Super Mom, even if just for a moment!
They eat, exercise, learn and grow every day!
Ryanna is dancing her little heart out every week in her dance class, while she is sprouting a little more height. She is growing her hair out to donate to kids who don't have hair for various reasons. I am so proud of her giving spirit!
Connor eats all the time! He is very tall for his age, and seems to be a conscientious child. He loves gymnastics and to make new friends. He also likes to plan parties and pretend play. He is learning to write his name. How exciting.
Avery is potty-training. He has worn underwear, and decided to keep them clean and dry! What an accomplishment! He's so big!
We had an exciting and scary moment at Bible Study this week.
Connor and Avery had finished eating their lunch, and were playing with some other children, when a stack of heavy round tables fell on top of Connor!!
I ran around to find Connor pinned under a stack of 5 round banquet tables.
The adrenaline in my body allowed me to pull the tables off him, and pick him up before I could even think about it.
I could not believe how easily those tables moved...they were so heavy! I have had to move them one-by-one by myself before, and was amazed at how heavy just one table is!
I am very thankful that my children are healthy, and happy, and that the Lord made adrenaline so this loving mom could turn into Super Mom, even if just for a moment!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Bringing Home Baby - 10 Tips for New Moms
Joy, elation, and awe are coupled with uncertainty, new fears, and wonder when a mother brings home her new baby.
Moms may ask themselves questions like:
Do not sweat the small stuff!
Your baby is a gift from God. Enjoy every waking moment, even when it comes in the middle of the night. Those days don't last long, and you will be wishing for the moments back. Create the memories every day, and cherish them!
“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Lysol® Wee Wisdom blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”
Moms may ask themselves questions like:
"Will I be able to do everything "correctly"?"
"Will my baby love me?"
"Will I be able to provide everything this little bundle needs, when he or she needs it?"
"How will I know what my baby needs?"
In conclusion, my best advice to new moms is:"Will my baby love me?"
"Will I be able to provide everything this little bundle needs, when he or she needs it?"
"How will I know what my baby needs?"
I have brought home three new babies. Each time the thoughts have been the same, since each new baby has its own personality and manner of communication.
The most important thing I learned each time was babies don't need much! They need loving parents who have their child's best interest at heart. You are the BEST parent for your child, God designed you and your baby especially for each other.
Here are My 10 Best Tips for New Moms:
1. Keep it Simple Your baby will not know whether or not you have the latest and greatest in baby nursery furniture, layette, or even diapers. There is no need to go overboard. Baby simply needs the basics of love, food, clothing and shelter. One good set of bottles, a couple of pacifiers, and maybe a dozen outfits in the newborn size are all your baby really needs at first.
2. Stay within your Budget Purchase the best for your baby, within your own family budget. Retailers make it very tempting to purchase all of the adorable baby accessories, and the "highest quality" gear available. Again, baby will not know whether he or she is riding in a $1000 stroller or a $100 stroller. If you can afford an expensive stroller, that is fabulous! Keep in mind, however, that highest price does not necessarily constitute highest quality!
3. Shop Consignment Stores and Sales Your adorable baby will only use the beautiful bassinet you chose for up to nine months. You can purchase used items at a fraction of the original retail cost! Most consignment stores and sales have quality standards that items must be safe and clean. Save yourself some time and money by asking the owners about the items they recommend most.
4. Ask for HELP!! Changing diapers and clothes can be a challenge. Especially when you are sleep-deprived and your baby has not settled into a routine yet. Don't be afraid to call anyone who have offered, "Call if you need anything!" Seriously, a SHOWER is one of those reasons that is worth calling in the support! Your baby will benefit from a snuggle with someone who will cherish the moment almost as much as you will cherish your shower (or nap!)
5. Pamper your Cleaning with Baby Wipes Keep your house clean with baby wipes, which you will have all around the house if you are anything like me! I keep baby wipes not only in my baby's room and diaper bag, but also in my dining room, bathroom, kitchen, family room, and computer room! A quick swipe with a baby wipe can cure the small spills or dust that happen when a new mom is away from her normal cleaning routine.
6. Look at Your Baby Take a moment out of every day, even if it is in the middle of one of your middle-of-the-night feedings, to just look at your baby. Babies change so quickly as they grow. Take in his or her features, and marvel at how wonderfully made your little miracle is!
7. You are the Expert So many people will give you advice while you are expecting, and again after your new blessing comes into the world. Listen politely, and you may even learn a few things. But, remember, you are the expert about your child and your family! You should know that you may not want to apply every piece of advice you receive...and that is OKAY!
8. Sensitive Skin Many babies are born with sensitive skin, especially on their scalps. Do not be alarmed if your baby develops a rash or redness on the skin. Certainly call ask your doctor, but chances are your baby's skin is reacting to some chemical in his or her environment. Laundry detergents, fabric softeners, bath soaps, aftershaves, and perfumes are common irritants. Be careful with them, and remember there is a learning curve for each baby! What bothers one child, may please the next!
9. You Cannot Spoil a Baby This is a very common statement, that I heard many times when my babies were small. I loved to snuggle each one of them, and keep them close. I also liked that they could put themselves to sleep in their crib on their own. So, we developed a routine that worked for us. Snuggle, read a book, and sing a song. Then, baby was close to sleep, and would go down easily! You have to do what works for you. It takes a few weeks of consistency to develop a routine and make it into a habit. Keep up the good work.
10. Sleep is your friend Don't worry that the dishes are not done, the laundry is piling up, and you wish you could actually take the time to do your hair and put on some makeup. You will feel and look better if you sleep when the baby is sleeping, especially those first few weeks! You will be able to customize your sleep schedule as your baby grows and gets into a routine...so don't worry about.
The most important thing I learned each time was babies don't need much! They need loving parents who have their child's best interest at heart. You are the BEST parent for your child, God designed you and your baby especially for each other.
Here are My 10 Best Tips for New Moms:
1. Keep it Simple Your baby will not know whether or not you have the latest and greatest in baby nursery furniture, layette, or even diapers. There is no need to go overboard. Baby simply needs the basics of love, food, clothing and shelter. One good set of bottles, a couple of pacifiers, and maybe a dozen outfits in the newborn size are all your baby really needs at first.
2. Stay within your Budget Purchase the best for your baby, within your own family budget. Retailers make it very tempting to purchase all of the adorable baby accessories, and the "highest quality" gear available. Again, baby will not know whether he or she is riding in a $1000 stroller or a $100 stroller. If you can afford an expensive stroller, that is fabulous! Keep in mind, however, that highest price does not necessarily constitute highest quality!
3. Shop Consignment Stores and Sales Your adorable baby will only use the beautiful bassinet you chose for up to nine months. You can purchase used items at a fraction of the original retail cost! Most consignment stores and sales have quality standards that items must be safe and clean. Save yourself some time and money by asking the owners about the items they recommend most.
4. Ask for HELP!! Changing diapers and clothes can be a challenge. Especially when you are sleep-deprived and your baby has not settled into a routine yet. Don't be afraid to call anyone who have offered, "Call if you need anything!" Seriously, a SHOWER is one of those reasons that is worth calling in the support! Your baby will benefit from a snuggle with someone who will cherish the moment almost as much as you will cherish your shower (or nap!)
5. Pamper your Cleaning with Baby Wipes Keep your house clean with baby wipes, which you will have all around the house if you are anything like me! I keep baby wipes not only in my baby's room and diaper bag, but also in my dining room, bathroom, kitchen, family room, and computer room! A quick swipe with a baby wipe can cure the small spills or dust that happen when a new mom is away from her normal cleaning routine.
6. Look at Your Baby Take a moment out of every day, even if it is in the middle of one of your middle-of-the-night feedings, to just look at your baby. Babies change so quickly as they grow. Take in his or her features, and marvel at how wonderfully made your little miracle is!
7. You are the Expert So many people will give you advice while you are expecting, and again after your new blessing comes into the world. Listen politely, and you may even learn a few things. But, remember, you are the expert about your child and your family! You should know that you may not want to apply every piece of advice you receive...and that is OKAY!
8. Sensitive Skin Many babies are born with sensitive skin, especially on their scalps. Do not be alarmed if your baby develops a rash or redness on the skin. Certainly call ask your doctor, but chances are your baby's skin is reacting to some chemical in his or her environment. Laundry detergents, fabric softeners, bath soaps, aftershaves, and perfumes are common irritants. Be careful with them, and remember there is a learning curve for each baby! What bothers one child, may please the next!
9. You Cannot Spoil a Baby This is a very common statement, that I heard many times when my babies were small. I loved to snuggle each one of them, and keep them close. I also liked that they could put themselves to sleep in their crib on their own. So, we developed a routine that worked for us. Snuggle, read a book, and sing a song. Then, baby was close to sleep, and would go down easily! You have to do what works for you. It takes a few weeks of consistency to develop a routine and make it into a habit. Keep up the good work.
10. Sleep is your friend Don't worry that the dishes are not done, the laundry is piling up, and you wish you could actually take the time to do your hair and put on some makeup. You will feel and look better if you sleep when the baby is sleeping, especially those first few weeks! You will be able to customize your sleep schedule as your baby grows and gets into a routine...so don't worry about.
Do not sweat the small stuff!
Your baby is a gift from God. Enjoy every waking moment, even when it comes in the middle of the night. Those days don't last long, and you will be wishing for the moments back. Create the memories every day, and cherish them!
“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Lysol® Wee Wisdom blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”
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