a QPM

Sometimes, while we are rushing through our adult lives, we forget that everything we do influences the devolpment of our children. Our lives should be an inspiration at all times to our offspring.
That being said- don't ask Zachary what caused the large pothole in the daycare parking lot.

You see- Z has entered the question period. Everything triggers a question. Everything.
One morning, on the way to daycare, I had reached my limit to answering questions. The main entry to daycare was blocked to repair a large pothole in the approach. When Z asks why there was a hole, I told him that it broke when an elephant sat on it. That satisfied him for a moment, until he asked where the elephant went. I replied that he went home with Elvis. (Elvis was a blow up that was promoting a sub shop down the street. Z still misses Elvis to this day).
Going further- when Z asks why the entry was still blocked after a couple of days, I replied they were afraid the elephant might come back so they wanted to keep it away ( I really didn't want to explain the 28-day yield strength of concrete to a three year old.)
This is a QPM. A Questionable Parenting Moment. Things that could help build CPS's case to declare you unfit to be a parent. While the infraction above is not a severe one, it is a basic example. I am sure that I will create many many more.

Now- a few Z quotes:
"Can I have a Crownie?"
"Mommy, you're not gorgeous yet. [fluff, fluff; pat, pat; the best 3-year-old imitation of the cosmetic bot from Wall-E] now you're gorgeous."

4 Months Already

Just a quick stat update. Rylee had her 4 month check up and subsequent buffet of shots...always pleasant.

She is 14.65 lbs and 25 1/2" long -- 75 and 90th percentiles respectively. She laughed on Sunday -- sweet laugh. Apparently this morning she rolled over twice for Chad.

She is a healthy girl but is dealing with a nasty case of eczema. The doctor has asked me to give up dairy for a while to see if that helps. Grand week to try to give up dairy -- banner Thanksgiving! But if it helps my poor little itchy girl I am willing to try. Do you know that even chicken nuggets have dairy in them??? Ugh.

The other blow we received yesterday is apparently she is too long for her infant carrier. I argued with Dr. Berger about this for a few minutes until she showed me on the carrier where it said it is good until the child is 26." We were kind of hoping that we could make it until February when Z will be 4 yrs old and 40 lbs which is enough to go into a booster seat. Rylee would then move into Z's seats. It would be ridiculous to purchase 2 new seats for just a few months. Course it is safer to keep Z in a five point harness and his seats hold up to 80 lbs. It is just his feet don't fit behind the front seat very well anymore. Oh well. Maybe she won't grow 1/2" in three months -- what do you think?

I've Been Tagged

I have seen these "TAG" things on blogs before. I enjoy reading them but have never experienced it personally. Really never gave any thought to doing it. However I was "tagged" by Michelle (Ok...So... author), then nudged on by Britta (Vice Chancellor of Sunshine) and I am much too lazy to come up with my own entry this week (Annual Thanksgiving Party prep is wearing me down!) So I am going to participate - if it doesn't intrigue you, so be it - skip this entry.

10 Years Ago I...
1. LIVED in Arlington, Texas and was planning the first ATP...just didn't know it was the beginning of the tradition. We were just inviting friends over to drink!
2. DROVE a long way to my job in Dallas in my 1991 Mazda Protege. It was affectionately known as Leprosy-mobile because it's white paint started to patchwork peel like it was diseased. I bought that car for $5,000 in 1992 and drove it until 2003. It was ugly but it was good to me.
3. WORKED at Parker College of Chiropractic in the Post-Graduate / PSPS seminars department. My friend Barrie got me the job but then moved to New Jersey -- no correlation between her move and my working there...at least I don't think so. The work environment shifted and became awkward and negative (again no correlation between Barrie's departure and the hell that took over Parker) but I can't dog it too much since it got me into the trade show business and I have had two jobs since then and LOVED both of them.
4. TOOK A ROAD TRIP to Lubbock to help my friend Marge pack up her stuff and move in with Leigh Anne and Drew in Bedford. I eventually shared an apartment with Marge - for nearly 2 1/2 years.
5. DISCOVERED that I was totally in love with Chad Martin. Can't believe it has been ten years but then again I feel like he has been my best friend my whole life.

5 Things on Today's To Do List
1. Clean the house for the ATP
2. Shop for food for the ATP
3. Cook food for the ATP
4. Set up the house for the ATP
5. Pick up Marge from the airport for the ATP

I am a little frightened that the ATP is consuming my world. I have two wonderful children that may like some affection and attention not to mention some meals from their mother.

5 Snacks I Enjoy
It may be easier to list 5 snacks I don't enjoy because I eat most everything so picking just 5 -- what is that about??!
1. Chips and Queso
2. Carrots and Spinach Dip
3. Salami Rolls
4. Crackers and Allouette
5. Fruit

Funny this is the appetizer list for this weekend. Very strange.

5 Places I Have Lived
1. Lubbock, TX
2. Columbia, MO
3. Broken Arrow, OK
4. Toms River, NJ
5. Baubenhausen, Germany

5 Jobs I Have Had
1. Operations Supervisor - Worlds of Fun
2. Residential Life Director - Texas Tech
3. Hotel Operator - Hilton Grapevine
4. Strategic Account Manager - Exhibitgroup/Giltspur
5. Operations Manager - Hanley Wood Exhibitions

I find it kind of funny that I went from Operations Supervisor to Operations Manager -- not amusing to anyone but me I am sure.

I will consider this entry additional documentation for my children and not a way to get out of doing a blog this week.

Words no parent ever wants to hear 1

(I am sure this will become a series)

This evening as we were finishing up supper, I was holding Rylee, MK was finishing her meal, and Zachary was squirming to get up. Finally, after squeezing a “May I please be excused” out of him, we let Z get up from the table to wash up. MK and I started our daily catch-up small talk when we hear the phrase that makes my blood run cold:

“Mommy and Daddy! The poddy is making a tewibble mess!”

MK and I look at each other horrified. I toss Rylee across the table and bolt for the bathroom. Sure enough, the toilet is overflowing and proceeding to fill the bathroom with a good ½ inch of water and micro bits of poo. Uck.
Z looked up at me with that innocent but vaguely smirking face. Dumbfounded, I somehow I managed to get the water off and the toilet plunged.
Was it too much toilet paper? Structural poo? We’ll never know. Z is not quite old enough to be malevolent, but I still couldn’t help being irritated. This is not how I wanted to spend my evening. Luckily it was bathtime, so MK wisked Z and Ry off to our bathroom while I mopped up the mess in theirs.
It wasn’t as bad as we thought, and all was soon good as er- used.
Upon her return, Mary Kate quips, “You always end up with the crappy jobs.”

EPILOGUE: The next morning, Z would flush the toilet and watch it go down. Flush the toilet and watch it go down. Flush the toilet and watch it go down... After every time, he would yell, " Daddy! It works a-gain!"

Showing My Blue Color

I guess it is time that I came out of the closet. Some of you already know, some suspect, but I think most of you are going to be shocked:

I am a conservative liberal.

What does this mean? I voted for Barack Obama and am so thrilled he won. I don’t agree with all his points but more often than not we see eye to eye on things.

Some may question why this is a big deal however the ten of you that actually read this blog are probably already aware of why that is a big deal. I count on our friendship remaining in tact after this admission but know that it could be changed.

(OBAMA SPEAKING IN DENVER photo by Jamey Leonard - thanks bro!)

I have never been one to discuss politics for several reasons. I don’t always feel educated on all of the topics enough to debate someone. Passions run so high where politics are concerned that generally speaking you are not going to convert someone to your way of thinking so why even get in a discussion where you end up getting mad and frustrated. I am also a Catholic in Texas which means I am surrounded by people who overall do not view politics with the same eye as me. It boils down to I am a chicken and avoid wearing an indication of blue on my sleeve.

I really get angry though at some of the statements I hear. How now people are praying for our country because of the election results – why weren’t they praying all along??? Or how Obama will be known as “the Abortion President.” Really? That is what his legacy is going to be? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING!!! I recognize it is my own fault that I sit in silence seething at the remarks made about Democrats or how the country is now dead because Obama will be president. (There is a guy in the metroplex that actually hung a black flag {symbol of death} over an upside down American flag {symbol of distress} in protest of the election.) I do not have the confidence to out myself in this environment.

Up to the election, I received tons of emails (didn’t we all!) on how Obama is evil or for the sake of my children I have to vote for McCain. These emails came from my friends. On Facebook, I had friends say how proud they are that their kids voted for McCain in the school election or use their status update for McCain publicity. Please understand that I fully support their right to pick the candidate that works for them. If McCain is the candidate that is aligned closest to their beliefs, then I do expect them to support, campaign for, and vote for McCain. However, I did not feel I had the same option.

On Tuesday, November 4 at about 8:30 west coast time, I was sitting with my boss and another person for dinner when Chad texted me “McCain conceded.” My boss did not believe me and had me call Chad to verify. I was so excited but dare not say a word. My boss is a vocal Republican so I cheered in my head and let them discuss this turn of events.

I really do feel this is a risky move to make my political thoughts public. I have a friend I have known for years that a while back sent me an email to boycott a toy company. I want to say that it was American Girl (don’t quote me on it!) that supported a shelter or after school club or some organization for at risk girls to help them create a future. Although not the primary function of the group, the reason I was to boycott it was because they provide a safe environment for girls that are lesbians and they also provide counseling for those who had an abortion. The email called for me to boycott the company and to pass along to all in my address book. I wrote back to my friend and said that I could not pass the email along for I thought the organization’s goals sounded like good ones. She responded with something that amounted to “then you are not who I thought you were.”

My family even wasn’t sure where I stood. My mother-in-law was shocked to find out that I was happy to have Obama as president. My brother (a VERY outed liberal) said he wasn’t really sure what side of the fence I was on for the election. It was at that time I decided to write this entry.

I want my children to have confidence in their beliefs and stand by their decisions even if they are in the minority. I did my research for the election. I compared the candidates and their stances. I find that Obama and the more liberal positions represent my views best. Why am I so afraid to say that? Am I a bad Catholic or bad Christian? Am I getting booted out of Texas?? The repercussion will be my friends will now look at me differently because “I am not who they thought I was.” It is hard to swallow that people may lose respect for me based on my liberal views. As a people pleaser and someone who cherishes my relationship with God, I really struggle with this. I guess I could be blowing this out of proportion but I know some of my Catholic and/or Texas friends will shake their heads in disappointment. I should take a step back here though. I should also consider giving credit to my friends that may just shrug their shoulders and say “whatever – let’s agree to disagree.” I just feel like that won’t happen as much as I want it to.

So now I stand before you ten people that read this blog and anyone else that stumbles upon it feeling very vulnerable to criticism and judgment. I will be stronger for it. I am so proud to be one of those that help put Obama in the oval office. I want Zachary and Rylee to know that I am part of that history – not just the first African American but the one that will bring freshness and energy to the position. I will try to wear more blue.

I appreciate the support some of you gave me for branching out on this blog to more than just kiddo stories. Maybe next time I’ll pick a topic less controversial like the war in Iraq or religion! HA!

It's ALLLLL about MK

So this MartinRandomness blog is supposed to be about my children. Chad and I created it as an electronic baby book initially to capture stuff like Zachary is "X" inches tall or Rylee rolled over today. Then it occurred to us that we can document short stories that made us laugh or say "oh how sweet." In this venture into blogland, I became interested in others blogs. I follow five of them very closely. All five with different styles and focus.

Britta and Shelly's blogs are of the West Texas variety. Meaning they make me want to crack open a beer and catch up on their family. You feel their personalities through their writing - you sense how warm Britta is and what a firecracker Shelly is. You understand the scope of love they have for their sons. They are both so consistent about posting pictures and providing family updates. I check in with them almost daily for a quick hit of their charm and fun.

Stephanie and Michelle are my random bloggers. I assure you this is a compliment. They tend to write what is on their mind at the time - sometimes politics, sometimes the art of concrete mixing, sometimes the idiots at Sam's club or even Eddie Izzard. Sure their family is mentioned but it is not necessarily the focus. You get to know them by their opinions and observations of friends, family, and mankind. They articulate themselves in a way that is captivating and leaves you wanting more when the entry is finished. These are sassy witty women who keep it interesting.

And then there is Stuart. His blog is actually the inspiration for ours. He is keeping a record for his boys for the "Buck Rogers Future." I must tread lightly here for I feel I lean towards stalker when it comes to this blog. Stuart presents a very honest and open picture of not just his boys but of himself. It is so revealing and so personal you feel like you know the Tinsley Family. I feel like I was actually there for whatever event Stuart is describing. I laughed so hard (like milk out the nose laughing) at his entry called Hope Springs Eternal (I dare you to read it and not do the same!!) and I openly cried (snot, tears, and all) and had my heart break as I read about the death of his mother and the waves of aftershocks he continues to feel. His writing draws me in completely.

Now you are intrigued as to why I am providing this blog review. Other than taking a moment to let these wonderful amazing bloggers know how much I admire their writing, appreciate their sharing, and asking them to keep blogging the good stuff - these five unique individuals - actually six when you count my husband - have me thinking. Should this MartinRandomness blog contain more MK stories? (Chad too!) Should the entries branch out to topics on my brain? If I am (sorry - if we are) creating this blog for Zachary and Rylee's Buck Rogers future (credit Stuart Tinsley) will they want to see me too?

My memories of my mom and dad are parental ones - cheering at soccer games, making me do chores, that type of stuff. I have no clue what was important to them or worried them or amused them other than my brother and me. They weren't humans -- they were parents. I do have to say now that I am older and can appreciate them as people with thoughts and emotions outside of kids, I do wonder what it was like for them when they were my age.

So assuming in the future Z & Rylee are interested in the Chad and MK of 2008, the next question becomes am I willing to be that vulnerable? Can I allow myself to be truly honest like Stuart and my other blogging gurus? Will I expose my insecurities, flaws, and issues along side my passions and my loves? I would have to destroy any illusion my kids may have of me as June Cleaver. OK maybe that is a tad dramatic but that is me -- do I really want them to know that I am a drama queen?? What about the weird stuff I think about? Or my bizarre trains of thought?

My final quandary (love that word) is that unlike my favorite bloggers I do not have the same skill in storytelling. I ramble. It's ok to agree. I know it. Chad agrees too. I go on and on and on etc. If you look at the five blogs I admire you will notice they are concise and not lengthy without getting to the point. I mean how long has it taken you to get through this entry?

Additionally, unlike my blogging cohorts or my husband, I am not really a great writer. You get a sense about them from their writing while mine does not provide the reader with an picture of me that has depth or dimension.

So by posting this entry I guess I have my answers:

1. I will assume the kids will be interested in peeking at their parents and how
they were in 2008
2. I just won't reveal all of my wonky ways and kooky thoughts
3. Let's just hope practice makes perfect and I'll eventually keep blog entries
under 300 words.

I guess this means be on the look out for more Deep Thoughts by MK and Chad. Besides, if I change my mind I can always hit delete!!

3 month old diaper toss

Coming to an Olympic venue near you!

We’ve all been there: in a hurry, trying to get out the door somewhere, when your precious darling excretes the foulest substance known to man all over the diaper and through the sides. How could something so foul come from such cuteness?
Anyway, during one of the frantic cleanup sessions (clock ticking), I carefully folded the toxic bundle and set it to the side in order to catch the last ‘finishing’ wipes. That is when my bundle of joy did one of her thrusting kicks. This, in itself, is not bad. But the precious little foot had a precious little sock on it that caught the Velcro tab on the diaper. On the return kick, the diaper went with it- CONTAINMENT BREACH! (did I mention tick tock tick tock?) So old diaper kisses the new diaper, clean bottom is re-soiled, OUTFIT #2 is toast, and daddy gets to change shirts. Tick tock OH WHATEVER.
This is finished up with the smile to end all smiles. Yes little one, you are worth it!

Healthy food is for someone else

As we pulled into the Walgreen’s parking lot, we pass a health food store.
Zachary asks, “What’s THAT store?”
“It’s a health food store” I reply.
“What’s that got in there?”
“Well, they have all sorts of natural foods that are healthy and good for you.”
Z states, “So it probly doesn’t taste very good then.”
I just about lost it. God bless fast food culture!

Oh How She has Grown

Rylee leaving the hospital Sunday, August 3:

Rylee after church on Sunday, October 19 - 11 weeks later:

Zachary's Office

When we drive down the Dallas North Tollway, Zachary consistently points at the Dillard’s at the Shops of Willow Bend mall and says “That’s my office!” or “That’s my work!” He also calls the Cinemark Theater a castle but that is for another time.
Today, Zachary and I (Chad) were near Willow Bend and had some spare time, so I drove over to Dillard’s.
WE got out, and Z matter-of-factly states, “we’re at my office, Daddy!”
Unlike our usual shopping trips, I let Zachary lead the way to wander around the store. He had full reign to look at whatever he wanted. The only section I did steer him away was from the bridal registry area. Hollilop sticky hands, an urge to grab, and crystal just don’t mix.
We walk into the housewares section. Z was so excited that the Christmas displays were out (it’s mid-October). We proceed to walk through all the kitchen items, with Z claiming all of his ‘new special things’. The sales clerk, amused at all this (and totally bored with stocking), asked to be Zachary’s secretary.
He proceeded through the furniture. I got to sit at Zachary’s desk and on his ‘new special couch’. We saw his ‘new special chair’, his ‘new special table’, his ‘new special closet’
We had to ride the Al-e-gaaa-ter (escalator) up, and then look through the purses for mommy (editor’s note: don't get any ideas...).
Z took off for the mall entry, and we wound up at the main court. We had to ride the glass El-a-gaaa-ter (elevator) and look at the machine below.
Then- Zachary spotted the food court. ‘That’s where I eat lunch!” We toured around looking at every vendor. After pizza and Japanese didn’t thrill him, I spotted Bluebell. I said, ”That one has ice cream.” Without hesitation, Z ran up to the counter and ordered, “I want a scoop of chocolate ice cream pleeeeze.” He’s three. Geez.

(EATING ICE CREAM AT HIS "OFFICE")
After ice cream, we wandered through a couple of stores (sorry FootAction and Hot Topic) and made our way back to Dillard’s. Z picked out a gray on gray shirt for me (little scary how well he knows me [at 3]!)
As we were leaving Dillard’s, I asked, “Did you like your work?”
Zachary responded, “That’s not my work, that’s my office. THAT (Saks Fifth Avenue across the lot) is my work.” I guess we never caught the subtlety. If only he got the employee discounts…

Good-bye Ms. Carrie

September 17th was an emotional day for me. But only me. Zachary, Carrie, Rylee, Chad - no one recognizes the day as anything other than a day. It was Zachary's last day at Ms. Carries. A few weeks earlier, we gave Carrie -- also known as Ms. Carrie from Carries House Daycare (http://www.carrieshouse.com/) -- our two week notice and Zachary's offical last day would be September 19, 2008 (although she ended up closing for the 18th and 19th.) Two years and three months after he started on June 19, 2006.

(EARLY DAYS AT MS. CARRIES)

When we dropped off Zachary for the first time at Ms. Carries he was so little. He had been going to a friend's house, but she was getting ready to have her third child so it was time for Z to move on to a new place. We found Ms. Carrie by going through the Texas Family Services. Carrie is licensed and registered and a mile from our home. Perfect criteria for us. We went for an interview and Zachary was immediately comfortable.

I never had apprehension dropping him off those early years. Carrie said he was a good boy but he did take a while to warm up to his new situation. By the end of the summer, Zachary was using sign language to say please, more, eat and I was very impressed.

(ZACHARY SAYING PLEASE IN SIGN LANGUAGE)

The next years for Zachary were great. He learned so much and had fun and made the cutest things. Carrie also made little things for the parents on holidays that included pictures. She also sent us pictures she took during the day via Snapfish so we could see what he was up to. I loved seeing him at play or cutting or painting. I could not have asked for better care for my son.

Zachary had developed good relationships with the others at Carries -- they were like a little gang! When Zachary started at 16 months, he joined Devon (2yrs), Grant (2 yrs), Kaylee (14 months), Emma (10 months), Kylie (almost a year), and Sofie (8 months). Olivia arrived at Ms. Carries shortly after and is three months younger than Z. This little group stayed in tact for quite a while we lost Grant and Kaylee along the way but Zachary had the others in his daily world until last spring. Devon, Sofie and Kylie all went to another in home daycare.

(THE CARRIE'S HOUSE KIDDOS SUMMER 2006)

(THE CARRIES HOUSE KIDDOS OCTOBER 2007)

(THE CARRIE'S HOUSE KIDDOS FEBRUARY 2008)

Over time, Chad and I also developed relationships with this little gang's parents. We started having bbqs and dropping our kids off to be watch for a date night. We grew so comfy and we are so grateful for their friendship.

Soon after Z turn 2, Carrie did ask when we were sending him to preschool. We hadn't intended to do anything until he was four but were shocked by her request. She didn't push the issue but at 3 she said she really felt like he was ready.

In June of 2008, Carrie closed for a week of vacation and we had no where to put our poor child. Because of Rylee's impending birth the grandmothers were saving vacation, I had no vacation to spare because of my upcoming mat leave, and Chad had a humongous project do and couldn't be out of the office. In desperation, we decided to pay an obscene amount of money to send him to TLC the daycare where my boss sends her daughter. We had to pay like we were enrolling him so even though he was only staying a week we paid the enrollment/admission fee, the supply fee, and the tuition.

It was worth it -- he LOVED it. Every day was "the best day ever" according to him. We (read I) was worried how he would do and we tried to talk up "school" to prepare him but he did just fine. Actually I think he excelled. Even back at Carrie's, he talked about how fun school is. I think Carrie took this as a cue and asked again when he was going to preschool because he was definitely ready.

I must at this time step backwards again -- cuz the blog entry just isn't log enough - and bring Rylee into the picture a bit. We told Carrie in February (the 21st to be exact) that we were pregnant and wanted her to come to Carrie's house. She said she would put her on the list but couldn't guarantee anything because she didn't know what would change before Rylee's arrival. But we could put a deposit down a month before she was to start and hold a spot. Chad said that maybe Rylee could take Z's spot and we'll leave him there until she was born. Carrie explained that it doesn't work that way. The state has certain ratios and she can keep one infant or two toddlers. So Chad told her to let us know if she felt like she was getting full and we may put a deposit down then.

Fast forward again to June and my response to Carrie was that we would be pulling Z in the next coming months but weren't sure exactly when because of Rylee. We didn't know if we should pull him before she is born so his schedule can stabilize before she was born or wait until she starts Ms. Carrie's and let me kind of mentor her in and he could "watch out" for her for awhile.

Essentially, I hemmed and hawed for a long time and couldn't decide. So Z just kept going to Carries.

The week after Rylee was born, Carrie took on three toddlers. Chad and I didn't think twice about it because we assumed Carrie would tell us she was getting full.

After a couple of weeks on mat leave, I started picking up Z from Carries. I would bring in Rylee and talk with Carrie and the other parents. I talked about her temperament and told Carrie Rylee would be a good girl for Carrie. I told Carrie that Rylee's diapers were those yellow ones and Carrie would have fun with those. Carrie didn't say a word.

Then about the last week of August when I was picking up Z, Carrie asked me about Zachary's curriculum fee. She said that if he was leaving then it wouldn't be worth it for us to pay it. I apologized that we hadn't gotten back to her on the whole is he staying or going. I told her we would let her know for sure by the weekend if we were going to let him stay at Carries with Rylee for awhile or pull him and just send her.

It was then Carrie looked at me and in front of the kids and other parents said "I am not taking Rylee. I just took on three new kids." The devastation and pain I felt in that moment was unreal. (looking back it had a lot to do with hormones too!!) I can't imagine the face I must have made because she said "I told you I might not be able to take her." I turned to leave because I was about to break down into full on meltdown mode. I sucked back tears like I never have in my life.

Of course at that moment one of the mothers I adore walks up with a gift for Rylee and I have to grab the bag and run with the lamest thank you ever tossed at her. I am quite sure Emily was a little freaked.

I get in the car and try not to let Z know I am bawling. He is just talking about his day and I am not listening to a word. Again my hormones were in full swing! But I truly was so hurt that my heart broke. I couldn't look at Carrie the next few days.

Then I got mad. HOW could she take on three new kids knowing we were planning on bringing Rylee? When was she planning on telling us - when I dropped her off my first day back a work??? I than began thinking she planned this. She was tired of Zachary and forced our hand to remove him from her daycare. It's not like we would leave Z there and send Rylee somewhere else.

OK so perhaps I was a little paranoid, a lot hormonal, and just sad that my daughter wouldn't get this personal care I loved.

My boss Amy sent me the best note ever. She point these things out about Rylee going to TLC:

Look at it this way:
*She wont be around other children who are much bigger than her so she can’t get hurt
*Think of all the free vacation time you will have back by not ever having to take off because TLC won’t close like she will
*Think of all the gas and time you will save by having one location to pick up and drop off at
*Emma is just next door so she can come over to check on little Rylee if she needs a friend
*That witch director won’t always manage TLC
*TLC is very pro booby milk

God bless you Amy!

It took a good three weeks to get to a point where I can look at it a little less biased. I needed to look at it from Carrie's perspective. This daycare is her business. She is in it to survive and make money. The economy is for crap right now. She can make more money with three toddlers than with one infant. It just made good business sense. So I came up with a phrase that if I do say so myself belongs in a calendar or quote book somewhere:

Carrie didn't do this to me. Carrie did this for her.

I feel so blessed that Zachary got the time with her that he did. And he was so ready to move on academically and socially - everything happens for a reason right?

Last week on the way home from school, Zachary started saying something about when he goes back to Ms. Carrie’s house. I told him that he wasn’t going back to Ms. Carrie’s house and he said very sadly “Oh. OK.” So I asked him do you not like school? And he said “No I LOVE school – it is fun. I just really miss Ms. Carrie.”

So Ms. Carrie thank you for taking care of our most precious treasure and teaching him all the things you did. He is definitely better for it. We do miss you.

(ZACHARY AND MS. CARRIE)

Christmas Cussing

My innocent sweet boy recently started using the word "Donner." All I could think of was the reindeer. I know he remembers Christmas and definitely knows who Santa is but could he really possibly remember Santa's reindeer.

So after a few more time of hearing him say "donner" I had to ask for clarification. I asked him what he was saying and he clearly stated " I am saying donner." I asked him what donner meant and he said "that I dropped something."

Confused about the mind of my three year old, I decided to let it go. I wasn't sure what to do with his statement so I said ok and left it at that. He apparently sensed my confusion and stopped me with "Mommy YOU say donner."

Now I can't decide if his imagination is at play here or is it that I am not getting it.

He continued "When you drop something Mommy you say donner." I looked at him for a few minutes and said "I do?"

He shook his head and said that I did. As I looked at him the preverbial light bulb went off in my head. I say "Darn it." He was copying me and my potty mouth (HA!) When I figured out what was going on, I knew I didn't want him saying donner. I recognize that darn it doesn't go down as the harshest of cursing but when a three year old says the phrase it just doesn't sound right.

So quick thinking Mommy said "Zachary I don't think you or I should say donner anymore. How about Oopsy Daisy?" I know! I know! A little too on the vanilla side but it sounds cute coming from him.

He agreed and a few days later sure enough he had a situation that required a cuss word and he said "I would say donner but now I say Oopsy Daisy."

I can put the bar of soap away for now.

Some Rylee Catch Up

Seeing that it took me so long to actually post Rylee's birth, the statics listed in yesterday's post are not exactly accurate. So here is a brief timeline to prove what we already know - she is healthy and growing fast:

July 31 - Rylee is born
7 lbs 14 oz
19 1/4 inches

August 3 - Rylee leaves the hospital
7 lbs 4 oz

August 6 - Her 48 hr follow up at the insistence of the Autistic Pediatrician (another story for another day)
7 lbs 7 oz

September 11 - Pertussis Visit (Sick kid at Ms. Carries so both kids got to go!)
11 lbs 13 oz (75%)

SIDE NOTE: Zachary is 37 lbs (75% -- consistent family huh?)

September 22 - Her 2 month Checkup
12 lbs 3 oz (75%)
23 1/2 inches (75%)

More fun facts:

* She did roll over twice (tummy to back) at Dr. Berger's and once at home for Chad but hasn't done it again.

* She smiled for the first time on Saturday, September 13 and captured on film Sunday, September 14

* She slept six hours on Thursday, September 25 and then on Sunday, September 28th (the night before my first day back from Maternity Leave) the beautiful thoughtful girl slept from 10:30 to 5:30!! THANK YOU Rylee!! She has been pretty consistent since then sleeping seven to nine hours a night. Have I said THANK YOU enough yet?!

* She is getting closer and closer to sucking her thumb. Chad and I keep popping it out and sticking in the pacifier...we are working with the philosophy you can take away a pacifier but not a thumb

* Her first day of school was Monday, September 29 and she slept a lot and decided to be a challenge taking a bottle. I'll just take it as a compliment that she prefers to eat with her mom!

* I dropped her off today in the outfit she wore home from the hospital. 2 1/2 months ago it hit her ankles - today above her knee. CRAZY!

I think that is the majority of the updates. Chad can add his here too. I do find it odd that she measured 19 1/4 inches when born but 53 days later she was 4 1/4 inches longer. So instead of saying she grew 4 inches, I say she stretched 4 1/2 inches. I am sure I am the only one that finds that amusing.

I will close this post with evidence of my technological ignorance -- I do not know how to format photos into the post. Notta clue. So they are all at the beginning when they would be much more effective if placed where they fit into the blog. So now I have to describe them:

1. Rylee's first day of school at TLC

2. Rylee and Zachary at Dr. Berger's for the pertussis check up

3. Rylee's first smile

Sigh...I am sure it will be Zachary or Rylee that will show me how to do this correctly...you know it's true!

ADDED BONUS -- now the formatting is wonky!

Zachary and his Little Girl

Part of me wants to air out my own neuroses and have some therapy about how we are scarring Zachary since the birth of his sister - how he doesn't get much play time, how he desperately wants our attention, and how the only things out of my mouth to him these days is "don't touch her" or "be gentle" or flat out "Zachary - DON'T!" But it seems that no one really seems to care that my son will be emotionally damaged by his parents since Rylee's arrival -- no they want to hear how he interacts with Rylee. So since this blog is supposed to be about the kids, I guess my guilt ridden tirade will have to wait.

He is the most loving adoring big brother. That is what you wanted to hear isn't it? I know it is. That is all anyone wants to hear. However in this case, it is absolutely 100% true.

He loves on Rylee so much and wants to touch and hug and feed and hold and play so much he can hardly contain himself. For awhile, Z referred to Rylee as his baby. In the early weeks, we let him hold her and give her a bottle but since we hover and limit his time, he decided that his beloved puppy was "mommy's sister" and decided to care for puppy like we did for Rylee. Yes, puppy wears a diaper that he changes (we have lost so many unused diapers because he throws puppy's diapers away in the real diaper pail!) and puppy sleeps in Rylee's crib to watch the "noble" (translate to mobile.) He also likes to feed puppy (forgive me Zachary for typing this -- promise to take it down before any of your friends can read!) by nursing (yep pulls up his shirt and everything) or bottle and has to pump to get milk for puppy. Chad wants to take a picture of Z pumping but I fear for when Z is older and the picture goes public.

These days he doesn't pump or change puppy's diaper (though the darn thing still wears one!) but Zachary is still just as loving despite Chad and I constantly on him about what he does with her.

I think once of the funniest and sweetest things he does is talk for her. It cracks me up and makes me go AAHHHH when he does it. He uses a high pitched falsetto voice and speaks for her as thought she is talking. For example, when I burp her and she belches like she shotgunned a Budweiser, Zachary will say in a high pitch fake voice "Excuse Me" or if I talk to Rylee and ask her a question "Are you ready for bed" or "Do you have a dirty diaper?" Zachary will answer for her. Sometimes she has stories to tell or sometimes it is a simple yes or no but it definitely needs to be captured on film. Too bad he has gotten so shy about the camera.

So I have followed his lead and make sure that she "tells" Zachary everyday that she loves him.

She is now his Little Girl. He and Chad go round and round because Chad calls her "Little One" and Zachary gets frustrated and says "No Daddy - it's Little Girl." He hardly even calls her Rylee anymore. The teachers at daycare (oh yeah - both kids are at TLC now - a long drama filled blog for another day) love that he talks to and about his Little Girl.

In the end, while I still feel there is some baggage we've handed to our son, he is truly a wonderful big brother. But knowing who he is, an amazing sweet loving boy, we aren't really that surprised.

She's Here!!

On July 31st (yes that was 2 1/2 months ago -- give a new mother a break!) at 8:08 am, our darling Rylee Elizabeth entered this world at 7 lbs 14 oz and 19 1/4 inches. She was screaming before Dr. Krum could get her out fully! (Apparently C-section babies have a harder time clearing out the lungs of goo and crying helps this process)

She is named after my maternal grandmother - Mary Lee Zerngast and Chad's paternal grandmother Beth Martin.

We really love using the name Lee because it also includes two very important women in our lives Leigh Anne Rathbun and Jessica Lee Espinoza. It truly means so much that we could give them Rylee as a name sake.

The Elizabeth (or as Emily Farr calls her Rylee "A Little Bit" Martin) portion of her name also ties her back to my mother's maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Burkhart and my father's maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Collins.

So Rylee will have a sense of family and love with all those strong amazing women whose names she carries.

Target Has Everything

Somehow or another in this blog that is supposed to be detailing our son's life, I forgot to mention what has been one of the biggest moments in his long three year life. His recent trip to Chuck E Cheese's. He has been to Chuck E. Cheese's before but for someones birthday party.

This trip was special. It was his celebration for staying dry in his underwear for a week and filling up his potty chart with green stickers. Green stickers symbolize the poop in the potty successes. Let me say that Chad and I were thrilled that he filled his green sticker quota.

So on June 21, 2008, Zachary celebrated being potty trained.

Then he went back to Ms. Carries.

At Ms. Carries, he has to wear a pull up until he is dry for a week including during nap time. Chad and I didn't count nap time. We just put him in a pull up and let him sleep. It is 50 / 50 if he stays dry. We aren't as worried about it.

But now I feel like we have to revise this official potty trained date. He is not staying dry at Ms. Carries. When he is with us, he is always in underwear and is 99% of the time dry. Even at outings -- he tells us he has to go to the bathroom 50 times during dinner, we smile and take him. I am convinced that if he is wet at Ms. Carries (not at nap time) that he is taking the easy way. He doesn't have to go to the bathroom because the pull up lets him pee and play at the same time. Sigh. So we are stuck.

If we send him back to school (TLC daycare where he went for a week while Ms. Carrie was on vacation), then he has to wear underwear - WAHOO! But I am not ready for him to leave the security of Ms. Carries so he has to wear pull-ups -- sigh. Notice I said I am not ready for him to leave -- but that is a whole other post that will indicate how much I need therapy!

So as I debate whether or not to leave June 21 as a date for his baby book, I have a story that makes me giggle to share.

My huge 9-month preggo belly is making things a little more difficult. Last night as I am trying to bathe my son, I would get out of breath. Horribly out of breath. I would have to stand back up or hold on to the side of the shower to try and catch it. Zachary becomes concerned that I keep standing up and asks what is wrong. I tell him I am out of breath to which he said:

"Mommy you need to go to Target and get some breath."

Well, it IS a SuperTarget.

Interactive Learning with a Creative Munchkin

Zachary and Chad play this game that only boys play. It is a wrestle / climb / trap kind of thing. Essentially Z will jump on Chad and climb all over him until Chad "traps" or holds him down (in a very gentle manner of course!) with a leg or an arm over Z.

Then Zachary can only be freed by answering a little piece of trivia -- this is how he makes it educational! Chad will ask -- how many toes do you have? or What color is a banana?

This past week Zachary showed us his creative side and I am too proud not to share.

One time Chad asks "what animal roars?" -- your thought? A lion? Mine too. Zachary's? A Dinosaur.

Another instance -- Chad asks "what animal has a long neck?" Your answer -- a giraffe? Exactly - mine too! Zachary's? A llama!!!

He really is brilliant isn't he? I am not just a biased mother?? OK maybe not ready for MENSA but you have to give him points for thinking outside of the box.

Two More Instances of Cuteness

1. Zachary has been going to a true daycare facility this week while Ms. Carrie is on vacation. He has been loving it saying things like -- Best School EVER -- GREATEST day ever! So he seems to have acclimated despite my hesitation. So I was driving him home and we went by a truck on those huge tires and Z got excited.

"Look at those tires Mommy - those would work on Miles' car!" Miles is Ms. Carries youngest son (who is about 20) and Z really looks up to him. This comment is the first time he has mentioned anything about Carrie's all week. So I ask him:

"Oh yeah, Miles. Do you miss Miles?"

He said "I do. I miss Miles. I miss Ms. Carrie. I miss Olivia, Emma, Kylie, and Sofie. I miss Jayden."

I didn't want to point out to him that actually Emma is the only one left of that original crew still at Ms. Carries so I just said "You miss them huh?"

He said "Yep. They're my boys."

2. Zachary is very aware that baby sister is growing in Mommy's tummy. He was (as he calls it) a "good sharing boy" and covered baby sister (aka my stomach) with his precious no one else can touch it blanket. I was stunned - both Chad and I looked at each other impressed that our son would share such an important item in his world.

Then to put it over the top for me, he got a Teddy Graham cookie and stuck it in my belly button to share with his baby sister.

The Entertainment Continues

A few funny moments brought to you by Zachary James Martin:

* One evening Zachary tell us he wants to watch "the dirty show." Chad and I are looking at each other with raised eyebrows like what have YOU been watching with our son. So we ask what is the dirty show? He said the dirty show from today. That's when it hits me -- we had the TV on Discovery and there were two or three Dirty Jobs shows in a row. Good to know he likes muck better than smut!

* This past weekend our friends the Hards came over for lunch and Zachary had a gross running nose. Kat saw him dripping and asked if he would like a Kleenex and he turned to her and said "Yes I would -- it doesn't taste so good." We did say come over for lunch!

* Zachary now pulls his socks up to his knees...by the way he is not Zachary he is now Mr. Incredible and those aren't his socks, they are his superhero boots.

* Bed time stalling tactics include: Drinking all of his water so he has to have more fresh water, he needs his ceiling fan turned on (or off depending on what it is doing when he goes to bed), he is scared of something random, has to go potty, or wants us to know that his toy is over there. Sometimes he only calls us in to tell us "I awake!"

The Most Beautiful Song

When Zachary was little I sang him this little song:

I love you Zachary
Oh yes I do
I love you Zachary
That is true
When you're not near me
I'm blue
OOOOOh Zachary
I love you!

I sang it over and over. When we were driving some where and I couldn't hold him while he cried I would sing it -- just doing stuff around the house I would sing it. He calls it the "Zachary Song." Sometimes he will interchange Zachary for Mommy or Daddy -- making my heart melt. But for 3 1/2 years now that is his song.

So I asked him the other day since he has a Zachary song what would Baby Sister's song be. He immediately said the Lightening McQueen song. I thought he misunderstood so I said "you have the Zachary song (I sang it here for him) so what will be Little Sister's song." And like I was crazy he said "Lightening McQueen song!" He then sang to his little sister the Sheryl Crow song "Real Gone" from Cars. When he was done he looked up at me and smiled with such pride. You know what -- his little sister did a dance when she heard her brother. Moments like these make a pregnant woman cry...

How not to search at a library

Zachary loves the Frisco Public Library, especially the children's section. The previous visit, the board book section had lots of favorites on the front row. Y'know- the classics: Thomas, Max and Ruby, monster trucks. This visit, a lot had been moved or checked out. So- I told Zachary we will have to go over to a catalog terminal to search. When we walk out of the children's section towards the terminal, Zachary starts yelling, "Max! Ruby! Where are youuuuuuu?" Hmm the books did not respond...

Thomas Time

At the beginning of April, Zachary got to meet one of his heroes - Thomas the Tank Engine. Chad and I opted not to tell him about it before hand. I wasn't sure if he would freak out on us or get so excited that he was a mess.

So we parked and took a little white shuttle to the hoopla area. As we were driving over in the shuttle, Zachary saw Thomas. The look was wonderful -- surprise, disbelief, and shock. As soon as we got off the shuttle and wandered into the Thomas Wonderland, we made our way to the station so that Z could see Thomas. Bad timing on our part, Thomas was pulling away and Z was soooooo upset. "NOOOOoo I want to ride Thomas!" Oops. We finally convinced him that Thomas would be back and he could ride later.

Going into this festivities, I thought the tickets were very pricing. $18 per person?? For the three of us that was $54 plus tax and Ticket master fees etc. The ride itself was supposed to be 25 mins long. I was so skeptical. Lots of money for little time.

I was pleasantly surprised that most everything was free. The shuttle to and from parking, the live kiddie band, the jump house the tent with toys to play, tattoos, the video and story building, all were included with the price of the train ride. There was of course a souvenir shop that Zachary was not allowed to go into for fear we'd never leave.

The food was the carnival type -- both style and pricing -- but Z had the biggest corn dog his little eyes had ever seen.

He played in a tent with about 100 other little kids trying all to grab an engine and push along the track. It was crazy. He loved it though because he played with engines he doesn't normal play with or have. Smart on the Thomas peoples end cuz now he wants them.

We finally waited in a long zigzag line to board Thomas - Z was impatient because he thought we were going the wrong way and was frustrated. He didn't want to miss him again. Once we were on and settled - he was so excited. He decided we were riding in Clarabel (not sure why not Annie but I don't question these things) and sat back for the ride. We got to go over a bridge - wahoo - much excitement. Z also handed over his tickets to the conductor to be punched like we were on a real train. What a happy boy!!

About ten minutes into it, the train stopped and reversed and went back the way we came. Back to my $18 per person for what argument. However before we got back to the station, Z was done with the train. He was bored and ready to go play again. It seems those Thomas people actually knew what they were doing. 20 mins is plenty of time on a train for a 3 year old.

Then I made Chad and Z stand in line to get his picture with Thomas. Z just wanted to go back to the tent and play. We waited about 20 mins (ironic that was the length of the train ride) but I got my sweet picture!

We let him play a little more in the tent and then took the white shuttle bus back to the car. We had been there about 2 1/2 hrs and it was way past nap.

If you ask Zachary if he had a good time, he will say "Yes! And I got to ride in the white bus!"

Concocto

Zachary apparently likes to cook -- must be from his dad cuz I most certainly don't cook at all!! I microwave! Anyway, anytime either Chad or I are "cooking" dinner, Zachary has to cook. He likes to cook near the toaster so he can slide his concocto into the toaster when it needs to be hot. He can also reach the spices.

He gets his tupperware bowl and his cooking spoon to spin (aka stir) his concocto. We give him food from the pantry to cook like pasta or raisins or oatmeal. He mixes it up and it is ready to serve. If we add food coloring, its a whole other level of fun.

None of the food is truly appetizing but if he does take a bite it won't kill him -- make him gag a little but won't hurt him!

The other night he made me pasta with sprinkles - dinner and dessert in one! YUM!

Z Speak Entry

One of my absolute favorites of Z is one that we will have to try and capture on video. Text does it no good but I will try...

So here is your quick quiz in Z speak:

What does Zachary mean when he says DAH-Doo?

Hint:
Usually green
Usually associated with farms
John is a very popular name

If you get this right, you probably have a 3 year old...the correct answer is TRACTOR.

WHAT?! Exactly!!! -- He started saying it that way over a year ago and it has changed a little. It is more like Trat-too now.

Love it love it!!

Hard Working Munchkin

Some mornings Zachary has to go to work. His words. "I not go to Ms. Carries - I go to work." I understand where he gets that - I mean both Chad and I say that to him every morning. "Good-bye Zachary I have to go to work. Have a good day - I love you." Or something to that effect.

The crazier part of this is that Zachary actually thinks he has an office or "oppice" as he says. We have NO idea where it came from but everytime we drive by a particular mall he sees Dillards and says "Oh there is my oppice." He recognizes the same Dillards each time. What even crazier than that is that he will see other Dillards and say like a question - "That's not my oppice?" He actually recognizes the logo.

We are thinking maybe he will be the CEO of Dillards someday. Or his MiMi taught him the thrills of retail.

Does Z need a Chiropractor??

Nah...it is just a funny story. OK funny to me. It is actually an old story -- from last spring -- Z was just over 2 years old.

As I showed up to pick Zachary up from Ms. Carrie's, another parent was leaving with her daughter. We started to chat and she mentioned that something was wrong with Zachary's back. I asked did he fall or get hit and she said she didn't know he just was standing with his hands on his hips saying "My back hurts."

I waved good-bye and ran into Carrie's house to see what was going on with him. Carrie was just as perplexed. She said Zachary hadn't mentioned a thing about it and he seemed fine. Sure enough he was playing and seemed happy to see his mom. So we just left and I decided to let it go and keep an eye on it.

As I put him on the sidewalk to open the car door and get his seat ready, Zachary smiled at me put his hands on his hips and took a step back - then another step back - and another. He grinned even more and said "Backwards!"

Two Bits of Randomness

Bit 1.
Wish I could type how Z pronounces some words -- they are wonderfulness and I'll forget over time...like jelly balls (aka jelly beans), strewbrrrrries (strawberries -- he says brr like he is cold), gulls (girls), I can't want do (I don't want to), for tomorrow or for later (how he procrastinates), tunder (thunder), and all of this with a hint of a baby lisp that is slowly fading. Chad needs to add some here too...I know he like the "I can't want to" as in "I can't want to brush my teeth."

Bit 2.
We did go to the park earlier this week and there were some eleven-ish year old girls playing on the swing set. They were just laying on the slide or climbing up it backwards as Zachary stood there waiting so patiently for his turn. I finally said very loudly - Zachary just say excuse me please - -which he did and the girls with attitude climbed up the slide - made him move out of the way so they could exit at the top of the slide before he could go down.

WHAT THE HECK? I was so irritated. In those few moments, I question everything I am doing as a parent. Am I not teaching Zachary to stand up for himself? Will he be a push over? But I don't want him acting like these girls and who were not courteous or polite -- he is three for gosh sake and they are 11 -- can they not move for one minute to let him slide down the slide??? REALLY?? What is the balance -- how do you teach assertive but not cross to aggressive? I want him to be confident but not arrogant. I was so angry with these girls and their 'tudes. Yep I became old in that moment - young whippersnappers with no respect. And completely concerned with raising Zachary. Those darn girls!!! I was having a pleasant day in the park with my son (who by the way when he got off his bike (aka push trike) at the park announce "Fergus to the rescue") and thoroughly having a good time when five tween girls' behavior ignited an internal battle.

Watching Z have such fun and talking up a storm to these girls who were completely ignoring him (annoying me even more!) should have calmed me but didn't. Though he did completely light up my heart when one of the girls slipped on the stairs up to the slide but she got up and went along to the top, Zachary stopped at his landing where he was climbing watched her and then clapped when she got up to the top and yelled to her "You did it -- good job!"

I just LOVE that boy...

We forgot March

So an entire month went by with no documentation or even small mention in the blog. Which is amazing since March held much excitement -- a week with my mom (Z's Gramma), a week at home with a SCARY fever, a 3 year appointment at Dr Berger's, an Easter celebration, and a third trip to Dr. Berger's office. Busy month.

At the moment I am at work with not a lot of time to expand on the above so I will give a few blurbs to try and help me remember March happenings and to expand on them at a later time...

1. Gramma does great potty training
2. 103 fever makes Z forget potty training
3. Z is 32 1/2 lbs and 38 1/4" tall -- 75% for both
4. Fergus is introduced to the Jost/Martin clan at Easter
5. Z has bad allergies in the spring - two years running now
6. Z gives me a look of betrayl and is too stunned to cry when he gets his "memmunization"

Is He Really 3?

WOW -- my sweet sweet little boy turned three last Sunday. He had quite a celebration week last week - Valentines Party (with candy) at Ms. Carries on Thursday, Birthday Party (with cake) at Ms. Carries on Friday, and another Birthday Party (pizza and more cake) at Wiggly Play Center on Saturday.

We are quite blessed with our friends and loved ones generousity. Trying to teach Zachary to be gracious but all he wanted were "more presents!"

My father (Z's Gramps) was in town and I think a tad bit frightened by the party at Wiggly Play Center. The party place is essentially an indoor playground with a bounce house. It was a horrible day weather-wise so the location was very crowded. I think the chaos of it all actually shocked my dad into silence! It was a bit overwhelming.

Zachary had 15 of his friends and 5 babies as well as all of the parents there to help him celebrate. He was so excited until he realized he was the center of attention. He got a little shy and didn't smile a lot in the pics. But he blew out all of his birthday candles.

The celebration continued on Sunday with MORE presents (I tell you we are very lucky!!) from Uncle Andrew, Aunt Jessie, & Baby Lucas as well as Gramma, and Chad and I.

He is such a joy to watch grow and mature. He is definitely a little boy -- yep seems the twos really weren't terrible - it's the threes you have to watch out for!! Chad and I will embrace every moment as he explores life and struggles for independence (a battle I am told continues for decades to come) and try to shower him with all the love, patience (I said try), and freedom we can.

We are so blessed.

A Twist On A Classic Tune

Zachary loves to go to Target but not for the same reason I do. I could spend hours shopping there - clothes, shoes, cards, candles, picture frames, ice cream, etc - you get the idea. Zachary LOVES (his word) Target because he gets a rainbow cookie and milk when we go.

Last night, we took a small venture to Target (make sure you say with a French accent - Tarzjey) for some Valentines miscellaneousness. He had his cookie and his milk and was a very happy camper. Towards the end (that mean after an hour of sitting in the cart) he starts to entertain himself by singing the alphabet song over and over. Seriously - over and over. The check out lady was amused at first and then annoyed -- I think because she knew it would be stuck in her head all night. I just had to laugh and sing along.

It did remind me of a blog post I wanted to make. When Z first learned the alphabet song, he would get stuck in a loop and would keep singing only because he couldn't figure out how to end the song.

He would sing: "A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z, now I know my ABCDE, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z, now I know my ABCDE, F, G, etc."

A round of applause for the musical genius that is Zachary James Martin. Oh how I love that kid!!!

You Eat What??

Yesterday Zachary told Chad that he ate Heiney Oodles. Confused - Chad asked for clarification. Z said Ms. Carrie cooked Heiney Oodles for Heiney New Year.

One of Zachary's Ms. Carrie Friends is from a Vietnamese family and her mother brought supplies for celebrating the new year.

So the translation from Z speak to English is Zachary had Chinese Noodles for Chinese New Year.

Happy Heiney New Year!!!!

Deeeeliciousss

Not really relevant to the title but made me laugh -- this weekend Zachary started singing Nah Nah Nah Nah...Nah Nah Nah Nah....Hey Heeeyyyy Goooood Bye... WHAT? Where did he learn that??? He cracks me up!!!

OK the real point of this entry is on Saturday after getting his hair cut we went to Chicken A (aka Chick-Fil-A). He ate all his chicken and a bit of fruit but seeing that the play yard was just feet away he was distracted. He is struggling in play places to climb up to the top. He gets nervous when he gets too high and he (ahem) chickens out. He didn't play long since it was well into nap time and he asked for some Aheyescream (very Texas twang.) Not paying attention I ordered a Kiddie Ice Cream and forgot to ask for the cup. So Z was quite excited to see his Aheyescream Cone!

The whole point of this blog -- we are getting closer -- was that we buckled him into his car seat, he would take a lick of the cone, lean his head back, let the ice cream melt on his tongue, he would let out a big sigh, and then swallow and say deeeelllliciousss. He savor every single bit of that ice cream cone. A gentle reminder for me -- savor every bit and not just of Aheyescream.

Dinner's Just Not the Same

Last night was my first night with Zachary in a while (I have been gone for ten days at a show in Las Vegas) and I cheated and got KFC for the two of us. Chad had a presentation to do in Ft. Worth and wouldn't be back until after Z was in bed.

I spread his dinner in front of him - Chicken, Mac-N-Cheese, Corn on the Cob, and Blead (he sometimes uses an "L" instead of an "R" in certain words). I gave him his juice and then we bowed our heads to say the blessing.

As I started to take a bite from my sandwich, Zachary turns to me and says "Mommy, something is missing."

I looked around trying to imagine what he wanted -- PBJ? Squares? I asked him what was missing.

He looked at me and said "Daddy."

Christmas ReCap (a bit on the lengthy side)

Only a few weeks overdue -- a very VERY brief (HA!!!) recap of our Christmas in Colorado. First and foremost -- Gold Stars to ALL of the Martins especially the one under 3. Sixteen or so hours in a car is a LONG time for anyone but to be strapped into a car seat YUCK. Needless to say Zachary did get his MacDonalds. (I think he says MACDonalds instead of McDonalds because of Old MacDonald's Farm song)

I was queezy and whining (shocking!) but Chad stayed in good spirits I think by focusing on the fact that he would be skiing. We got to my brother's house - Uncle The Jamey's House according to Z -- and started to relax. We were able to walk to mass on Christmas Eve and again Zachary did surprisingly well through church.

Opening presents was interesting. A Leonard tradition is opening gifts on Christmas Eve and then gifts from Santa on Christmas morning. Even though this was a "lean" Christmas there were gifts spilling out from under the tree. This Christmas was the first where Zachary understood what presents were about and that he gets toys and fun things. He was beside himself with excitement and was in other peoples business when it was their turn to open a gift. He constantly asked "WHAT IS IT?" "WHAT IS IT??!" I will have to have Chad insert some of Z's other funny comments. He would just be so happy and excited opening the gifts -- lots of oh my gosh type things.

He started losing patience toward the end. He only wanted to open his gifts and not wait on others. Another tradition is that we all take turns going from youngest to oldest opening gifts and the young ones deliver gifts to others. He was getting a bit tired but seeing that we had been opening for several hours (I told you a LEAN Christmas) it is understandable.

We woke up to a truly (and forgive the sacchrine nature of this comment) magical beautiful Christmas morning. It had snowed all night and was still snowing in the morning those big soft flakes you see in the movies. I think all of us were taken by the beauty of that morning. We spent more time opening gifts. Jamey cooked an amazing Christmas dinner and continued to stun me with his culinary skills.

Zachary didn't really get the Jesus connection to Christmas. I guess I thought he was getting old enough but he wasn't quite there. He didn't even really play with his Little People Manger set. We'll keep trying.

We left for Winter Park the next day but not before Z, Chad, and Uncle The Jamey were out in the snow. Jamey was clearing the cars and Z and Chad were "helping." The snow came up most of Z's leg (almost to his crotch) and he was a little unsettled about it. He said it was "deep" in a very concerned manner. He watched his dad make a snow angel and really wasn't sure what to make of it.

The condo in Winter Park was GREAT! Perfect for us. Gramma, Z, and I stayed indoors mostly while the big boys went skiing. Zachary was getting a little more irritable and ornery each day. I think the fact that he was cooped up and not eating right and not a good schedule all added to the mood issues.

I do think the highlight of Winter Park was watching Z sled down a tiny hill. His laugh was indescribable. Even the pictures do not do it justice. He really enjoyed himself. I wish I had gotten out with him earlier so he could have done it more days. I think the only reason he asked to go in after about ten trips down the hill was because he is a bit shorter than us and was again nearly waist deep in snow and got cold.

I will let Chad expand and elaborate on our Christmas shenanigans. He'll probably want to mention skiing a couple more times since I was the lazy one. Jamey has a funny story of Z sliding on the dining room floor in some dance move but I didn't see it so I can't do much with it but it made Jamey roar with laughter.

Two quick Z speak phrases that Uncle Jamey enjoyed:

After riding in Uncle Jamey's vehicle - Jamey said something about his car and Z corrected him: "Its not a car Uncle Jamey, it's a Jeep."

And after calling Z silly, Uncle Jamey was corrected again: "I'm not silly, I am funny."

Merry Christmas to all!

Neurosis of a Mother

I realize that this blog is for us to mark the memories and little moments that we swear we'll never forget yet somehow manage to let slip through our brains but I wonder if ten years or twenty years we will truly remember the sweetness of our little boy and his daily comments and actions. I am stunned at how much I can love him and his father but I don't sense this diary of sorts can truly capture it. Each story or blurb we type here has meaning -- whether making us laugh or shocking us at his insight or just too darn cute not too share but when I re-read I feel like I can not convey properly the emotions and feelings behind it. So my amazing son and dahling husband know that you are loved beyond measure even though I can not find the words to truly tell you so. This fact could explain why my novel has never been published.

feathers

After a touching storytime between me, Mimi, and Zachary; Zachary looks up at Mimi and asks, " Mimi- do you have a penis?" [It took several repeats of the question for us to understand this] Once Mimi understood, she looked at me whimsically.
Zachary replies, "I have a penis, Daddy has a penis."
Mimi said, " no I don't have a penis."
Zachary matter-of-factly responds, "No Mimi you dont have a penis. You have feathers."
Mimi and I burst into laughter and tears.