Play Date at the Zoo

Dad's back home! YAY!  He had a great time with the guys, but is glad to be back home.  And Momma and Bubeaner are thrilled to have him back.  And as a special trip Dad decided to accompany us on a treat to the zoo even though he was extremely tired and worn out.  But how could he say no to spending more time with Bubeaner?

Hailee and Bubeaner on our way in to the zoo.

Hailee, Meme'Licia's granddaughter, was spending the day with us on a long play date.  (Working on those socializing skills.)  Of course, Bubeaner had no problem socializing with Hailee; he never has problems when dealing with cute girls.  We may have an incorrigible flirt on our hands.  Sigh.

"Are you sure I am not supposed to be buckled in?"

Probably the funnest part for Bubeaner was the train ride.  This was wonderful for Momma too since she did not have to walk that much.  Bubeaner was a little hesitant at first, but then really enjoyed it.  The rest of the visit was fun, but not as enjoyable as usual.  We forgot that Wednesdays are 1/2 price at the zoo, and it was busy!  We are used to visiting without having to fight off mobs of unattended children.  But it was still a good experience.

He was done with the stroller and walking.

Bubeaner preferred Dad.

We stopped to eat lunch at a nearby restaurant since the zoo is a little bit away from home.  We did not believe the children would stay awake and wait until we got home to eat.  Bubeaner was once again on his best behavior.  There was a little girl to impress with his great big boy skills.  He even worked diligently on his coloring.

Somewhere in the future, they might BOTH 

be playing with their blackberries.

And, of course, we were correct.  Bubeaner was completely out by the time we got home.  Thankfully, we were able to transfer him to his crib without him waking up.  He was just so worn out from all the walking and the sun.  After his nap, he was ready to play some more with Hailee.  Bubeaner was infatuated.  He kept offering her his favorite toys and trying to give her hugs.  He really enjoyed spending time with her.  We hope she'll come back and visit again when she's back in town.

Showing Hailee his Coupe's cool tricks.

Demonstrating how his favorite toy worked.

Frustrating Changes

Nap and bedtime schedules have not returned to normal yet.  We are not sure if it's because Dad is not here or if this is part of a normal change in routine as Bubeaner grows.  For now we are attempting to find new normal schedule.  But it does lead to frustration on our part and fussiness from the Bubeaner.  For now rather than focusing on schedule, we are just trying to make sure he gets the sleep he needs regardless of how and when he sleeps.

Cuddling with Momma.

Bubeaner has been really missing Dad.  He looks at his pictures and asks about him all the time.  As a strange side effect.  He also keeps saying "Mamamamamam" all the time.  We can only assume he wants to make sure Momma does not go away too.

But he has also learned to say that he's one year old!  OK, so he doesn't actually SAY it, but he holds up one finger up when asked his age.  That counts, right?  And, he's almost got down the Hook'Em hand sign too!  It would be awesome if Bubeaner could do that by the time Dad gets back home.

Yup, more Bubeaner and Momma.

He's not letting Momma get too far from him these past fe

Bubeaner is starting gym class again.  We are not sure how excited he will be about it.  But we hope he's enjoys interacting with the other children a little more.  Our main concern is the increase in his tantrums; yes, we are aware that overall, Bubeaner is a well-behaved child and that part of it also has to do with this stage.  And we are blessed that he is sorrounded by many wonderful people that love and dote on him.

However, it cannot be good to be the center of attention ALL the time.  He has Momma, Dad, aunt Pau, and Meme'Licia's full, undivided attention on a daily basis.  Not to mention receiving all the attention from aunt AA and uncle Gary, uncle K, uncle Jeff, and the grandmothers at church when he visits.  He needs more interaction with other children his age.  Hopefully, gym class will help a little and we may start also start dropping him off at daycare (run by friends and former co-workers) on some Saturdays for additional socializing.  We are also considering taking advantage of the church nursery on Thursdays while Momma is with the women's group.  But for now, it's one little step at a time.

Reality Check

We had a reality check today after our latest church experience with Bubeaner.

First, the idealistic expectation:  Bubeaner pleasantly and quietly sits on our lap or on the pew maybe reading his Bible or just smiling at us.  (Yes, we are aware he's a boy and only 17 months old.  That is why this is the ideal.)

I'm a well behaved little boy.  Just look at this face!

Then, our skewed perception of today's experience:  A rowdy, loud child that is unable to sit still bothering and distracting everyone in the church including the priest despite the fact that we are sitting on the very last pew.

Nah!  At least not well behaved ALL the time.

He!He!He!

Reality Check:  Bubeaner is actually a pretty good and well behaved child at church for his age... with the notible exception of the Hissy-Fit Weekend.  He does talk/babble some during the mass but usually in a normal voice;  it's not a scream and only gets a little louder when he's "singing" along with the choir.  He does move around but sticks to the area between Momma and Dad.  Unfortunately, today it was just Momma and Bubeaner at mass.  And he used the two extremely sweet and understanding women one either side as his border.  Bubeaner appeared to like them since he kept touching them and leaning into them.  He even smiled and flirted with them.  They said they did not mind, thankfully, since we somehow ended up in the middle of the pew despite our careful planning.

But what are you going to do about it?

I'm just too cute!

We really can't expect any better behavior.  We just have to understand that he is a child.  He will be a little active, at times a little loud.  And at some other times, a little rowdy.  There will be times when we will have to step outside and probably a few when we will have to just head home early.  But overall, Bubeaner is a well behaved child.  We will be able to continue to share our faith as a family.

And that was all considering Bubeaner had slept maybe 3 hours the night before. This was Momma's fault.  He slept in the master bedroom in his pack and play.  But he just did not get too comfortable.  Today we are trying him back in the nursery.  Either way Momma won't sleep well, but at least Bubeaner will get a good night's rest.

Much better after a long nap.

It was due in part to our lack of sleep that we missed a visit from uncle Gary, aunt AA and cousin K.  They were planning on stopping by on their way home from Arkansas.  Unfortunately, Momma had turned off all the phones in the house in an effort to help Bubeaner (and Momma/aunt Pauline) get a good nap.  There is usually at least one phone ringer left one... but not today.  We did not get the messages until too late.  On the bright side,  Bubeaner took a 4-hour nap.  He was in a much better mood in the afternoon.  He did have a little more trouble settling down to sleep at bedtime, but has been peacefully sleeping for the last 4 hours so far.  That's an improvement from last night.

Handsome boy in his Sunday clothes.

Sweater vests are adorable on little boys. 

We are 26 weeks!!!  Yay, one more week closer to our 36-week gestation goal!  She's doing a great job.  Last night she wanted to get into the Bubeaner no-sleeping action and kept Momma awake with strong kicks and punches until 130am.

Bubeaner enjoyed his "drive" around the neighborhood,

but was a little tired.

And then, we had the expected meltdown before getting ready for bed.

We miss dad but are glad he's enjoying some guy time.  He will be back in no time!

Change Again?

Bubeaner spent a great morning with Dad.  We all woke up early, had a good breakfast, played for a little while, and even went for a short early morning walk.  A little while later uncle Jeff joined us with Dad's friend Marcus.  Bubeaner was thrilled.  Unfortunately, it was short lived.  The guys, with Dad, were headed off to Vegas to celebrate uncle Jeff's birthday.

A morning walk with Dad

But Momma did not let Bubeaner dwell on a lonely home.  We headed off for some retail therapy.  And we did quite well.  Bubeaner came out with several new summer outfits as well as three new pairs of shoes including an adorable set of leather sandals.  He looked incredibly cool and adorable, of course.

Notice the cool leather sandals

We did get a little distracted with all of our shopping that we lost track of time.  He ended up taking his nap before eating lunch.  But do not worry, he had a hearty meal as soon as he woke up from his long and well-earned nap.  And, out of Momma's guilt, he also ended up getting 2 nanas.  We did make an interesting discovery too.  Bubeaner has sensitive skin.  Barbecue sauce he had smeared on his face while eating left him with a rash once we cleaned up after his lunch.  The rash disappeared shortly after, but we now know to be more careful.

Finally enjoying his long overdue lunch

And when aunt Pauline got home, we all went out for another Rita's treat.  We don't usually visit this often, but they had a special today that was irresistible: two for one Italian ice AND free chocolate covered Peeps for all customers!  They were as delicious as expected.  Bubeaner thought so too.  We were careful to only give him very small pieces.

Hey, it pays off to make Momma guilty

Afterwards, Bubeaner had a relaxing and quiet evening at home.  He even went to bed without any problems.  But he did wake up at 1045p singing and talking to Momma while asking for Dad.

Busy Friday

We actually had a late start to the day.  Well, late by Bubeaner standards.  He did not wake up until 730a!  However we had so much "free" time because we still woke up at the usual time.  On the bright side, the house was clean by the time Bubeaner actually woke up.  And he woke up starving.  We were surprised at home much he actually ate this morning: 1 scrambled egg, 1 cinnamon toast, 3 large strawberries, 1/2 banana and then he still had a glass of milk!  Remember he's still pint size. 

Munching on his cinnamon toast

Adorable and Cute Bubeaner

The morning went relatively fast since we had to leave to get to a hospice continuing education in-service for volunteers.  We are strong believers in the priceless services offered by hospice to terminally ill patients and their families.  Bubeaner doesn't understand yet, but he's been dragged to these events since he was in the belly.  The volunteer coordinator considers him a junior volunteer in-training.  He was actually quite well behaved during the in-service.  Although, we had originally planned and worked his schedule so that he would be napping during that time.  He sleep through most, but not all, of the presentation.  We had entertain him with our jewelry towards the end.

Bubeaner and Meme'Licia after presentation

On our way back we decided to run some errands.  And after all our hard work, we deserved a treat.  So we stopped at Rita's for some italian ice.  We even tried their new Peeps flavor.  It tastes just like buttercream frosting!  It's good, but how much frosting can a person really eat in a seating?  We settled for one of our favorite while we talked and watched Lion King on their TV.  Bubeaner was enjoying the ice.  Although, he will not eat too much.  This self-limiting tendency will probably be a good thing in the future.  Too much sugar is not good for a kid (or a Momma).

Is it a bad sign that Bubeaner recognized the place immediately?

We had not been back since fall!

Pushing Sandy around in the Coupe.

Momma may have encouraged this torturing of our puppy.

Feeding himself a "healthy" dinner option.

Sometimes we just gotta go with the easy, ready-made dinners.

Lack of Sleep

Lack of sleep is catching up with us.  Momma can't get comfortable at night due to the Bubita belly and therefore not sleeping well.  Dad has to deal with a tossing and turning Momma all night and getting no sleep either.  And Bubeaner is still refusing to take his full naps (except for yesterday).  So we are all walking around with shadows under our eyes, falling asleep throughout the day.  Maybe it will get slightly better soon, at least for Bubeaner.  Once he is back to his normal routine it should help with his nap time.

Bubeaner enjoying his afternoon snack 

while watching Plaza Sesamo.

And due to lack of sleep we were running really, really, late for church group.  Ok, in full disclosure, Bubeaner had been awake since 630a but had been patiently waiting for Momma to get moving.  He's such a good and patient boy (the majority of the time).  Bubeaner was supposed to have joined us this morning.  The church group grandmas have been requesting to see him.  But since we were running so late and it was a cold morning, we decided he should stay at home with Meme'Licia. 

Bubeaner relaxing while waiting 

for Momma to finish preparing dinner.

 He got into this position by himself. 

There is no doubt he's his father's son. 

He had a good quiet morning and actually took his nap early and without a fuss.  The only problem was that he woke up, on schedule, at 130p.  Exactly at 130p.  Just like he has for the past week.  Somehow, for some unknown reason, his new routine is to have a dirty diaper at 130p.  And Bubeaner cannot sleep with a dirty diaper.  We are either going to have to get him to bed earlier so his nap ends at 130p or wait for his nap to start after his diaper change.  Dad's theory is that Daylight Saving messed his normal schedule.  Great!

Teething Troubles

On the bright side, we didn't have any issues with Bubeaner only getting one Nana per day.  He actually didn't even get a single one today.  He did ask for them but did not really make a bid deal about not getting one because he was in so much pain.  We had to give him BabyOrajel and either Motrin or Tylenol every 4-5 hours.  Bubeaner was just not feeling well.  And inspecting his teeth, there was a HUGE difference even from yesterday.  It's really no wonder he was fussy.

He insisted on carrying his lovey around all day.  Usually he only uses it for nap and bed times.  And Bubeaner kept asking to be carried and rocked.  He still played a little but did not even take out all his favorite toys.  And more telling, he took 2 long naps today (morning and afternoon)!  He was a little better in the evening, but still not his normal cheerful disposition.

 Bubeaner in the master tub.

Bubeaner throwing toys out.

We don't put the faucet handles on until we use the tub.  

We don't want Bubeaner accidentally turning it on.

Bubeaner has outgrown his jumperoo.  It's not a surprise considering he's almost 17 months old.  However, we mainly used it to contain entertain him while we got ready in the mornings.  He's such an early riser (and Momma is not) that he's always awake before us.  The jumperoo kept him happy and out of trouble as we quickly got ready.  We started putting him in the master tub with some toys.  He mainly likes to watch the water from the shower.  And then entertains himself with the toys.  So far it's working.  But sadly it is only a very short temporary plan.  Bubeaner's already attempting to escape/climb out.  Soon he will be tall (and brave) enough to do it.  No other option but to completely childproof the bathroom.

Attempting an escape 

"What?  I'm being a good boy...."

Bubeaner continues to add to his vocabulary.  As of late, his favorite past time is ordering Sandy around.  He will actually give her commands!  His favorite are "sit" and "down".  And he uses them correctly.  Sandy is not as thrilled with this new development.  However, she does like the extra attention and love.  And she will obey his commands every once in a while.

Good News Tuesday

First, the test results came in today.  No gestational diabetes for Momma!  WooHoo!  Now, we are hoping that Momma just has big babies and there are no additional complications.  And to help with that we have put away any junk food and sweets, which Momma can't really get enough off during this pregnancy.  We also stocked up on healthy proteins and plenty of fruits and vegetables.  No need to continue adding too much weight too fast.  Momma is only 8 lbs above pre-pregnancy weight, but those happened within the last 5 weeks.  Slow and steady weight gain is our aim.

Bubeaner feeding himself oatmeal.

The spoon wasn't cutting it.

You can get so much more by using the hands.

Mmm, yummy! 

Bubeaner continues to walk on his own, not all the time, but more every day.  We are thrilled with his continued progress.  He's also gotten a lot better at pointing out his body parts.  He knows his arms, hands, legs, feet, nose, ears, mouth, and eyes.  Although, when he's not in the mood to play he only points at his eyes.  And when that doesn't get a good response, he starts winking.  The boy knows he's irresistable. 

Out for a stroll with his Meme'Licia and Sandy.

He prefers his Coupe over his stroller.

Stopping by the pond to look at the ducks.

He had a little bit of a bad day today.  He did not sleep too well and his nap was pretty short.  We noticed his molars were more pronounced when we brushed his teeth in the morning.  However, he did not let us take a good look.  At dinner time, we tried again.  All 4 of his molars have cut through and his top two incisors had also cut through!  Poor munchkin.  So we were back to more BabyOrajel and Motrin.  Hopefully, he will have a better night tonight. 

We are going to need for him to be in a good mood tomorrow.  We have noticed he's had an increase in reflux and tummy issues lately.  And, we can only assume that it might be due to his insatiable appetite for Nanas.  Starting tomorrow, we are limiting Bubeaner to only one Nana per day.  It will be a long, long, LONG day in our household tomorrow.

A Touch Too Sweet?

Bubita is already 25 weeks!  Only 11 more weeks til she's allowed to make her grand entrance.  She did give us a little scare last night.  Momma started having some strong menstrual-like cramps that kept intensifying for 45 minutes along with strong lower back pain.  Thankfully, they eased off and eventually disappeared completely after we called the on-call doctor (of course).  Dr. D was actually very reassuring and not put off at all.  He did leave us with instructions to just head directly to Labor & Delivery if they started again, specially if they were as strong.  We did not need to worry.  We had a good night after that little issue.  Ok, maybe Momma and Bubita had a good night.  We are not sure Dad got much sleep worrying about his girls.

Showing off her pretty face; 

her lips, nose and closed-eyes can be seen on this one. 

This is also a shot of her face.

Her eye can be seen pretty clearly. 

It was also reassuring that we had our monthly appointment with Dr. T today.  We got to see Bubita moving, kicking and punching.  Dr. T listened to our description of the previous night's scare;  he reassured us that this sometimes happens, but to always call just to be on the safe side.  It was reassuring to not have our concerns dismissed outright.  Hopefully, we won't have too many more similar scares.  Hopefully.

Bubita stretching and arching her back.

She was also swallowing/breathing in this shot. 

 Rock & Roll Bubita!

She's actually sticking out her tongue in this one.

The good news is that the placenta looks good.  Dr. T was also pleased with her amount of activity.  There was, however, a little concern.  Actually, it was the opposite of what we had expected.  She's measuring AHEAD of her gestational age by almost 2.5 weeks.  Usually babies with 2-cord placentas tend to measure under or, at the very best, AT their gestational age.  Dr. T was clearly not pleased just because this might mean there might be other complications.  His main concern right now is gestational diabetes.  Of course, this made us immediately think of all the sweets Momma has consumed during this pregnancy.  Momma had to take the gestational diabetes screening test, which just consists of drinking an extremely sweet orange drink and waiting for an hour before having blood drawn.

There is, of course, the possibility that Momma just has big babies.  Bubeaner, though born weighing 3 lbs 13 oz, was almost a pound heavier than he should have been for his 30-weeks gestation.  For now, we wait for the results, which should be ready tomorrow, and see Dr. T again in two weeks. 

Celebrating with Family

Saturday Dad took the girls out to a Stars game while uncle Ivan and Sarah bravely babysat Bubeaner.  They enjoyed the extra alone time playing and getting to know Bubeaner.  And Bubeaner was on his best behavior for them too.  He even took his afternoon nap without a fuss.

Momma's other car is a zamboni!

(The jersey barely fit over the Bubita belly)

We enjoyed a great game even though the other team played a little dirty our team still won!  We were a little more aware about any flying pucks during the game.  We did not want any pucks anywhere near Bubita.  Although Bubita appeared to enjoy the game.  She would get so excited kicking and punching any time someone slammed into the panes in front of us or when we had a power play.  The girl might be even more feisty than we expect.  And she will be ready for next season in her adorable baby jersey.  Bubeaner also got a new one since he has outgrown all of his too.

Aunt Lari, aunt Pau, Momma and Dad enjoying a great game

We all headed out for dinner to celebrate uncle Ivan's 30th birthday in the early evening.  He even humored his sisters by wearing a silly birthday hat out in public.  It was nice to spend time chatting and laughing sharing great food.  And our wonderful spring weather had a surprise for us as we left the restaurant.  It was snowing and quite hard too!  We woke up to a white covered neighborhood.

Sarah and Ivan

Bubeaner coloring at the table

while waiting for our food

Bubeaner went to bed as soon as we got home.  He would have loved to stay awake for cake and presents but it was bedtime.  Uncle Ivan humored us making a big show of blowing out the candles.  And we all enjoyed the cake and teasing uncle Ivan about his presents.  

Bubeaner wishing his uncle a happy birthday

before going to bed

Ivan with his birthday cake

Sunday we took it easy and relaxed at home.  We played some board games and enjoyed spending time together.  Eventually, we had to take aunt Lari to the airport so she could return home.  And a little later uncle Ivan and Sarah had to leave too.  The house felt very empty without everyone here.  But we look forward to spending more time with family in the summer. 

An exhausted Bubeaner after the family weekend

The boys relaxing at home

A World of Adventure

Dad returned from his business trip yesterday to a family thrilled to see him back.  And Bubeaner was so excited he decided it was a good time to start walking on his own.  He walked to and from Dad while Dad unpacked and settled back home. Bubeaner still prefers to crawl and knee-walk, but he's continued to walk on his own since then without being coerced or encouraged.  This might, MIGHT, be the turning point. YAY!

Bubeaner walking around the bedroom on Friday morning.

Friday afternoon we left Dad resting at home while Meme'Licia, aunt Lari, Momma and Bubeaner headed off to the Dallas World Aquarium.  Aunt Lari had fond memories from her first trip there 7+ years ago.  We decided to take a little field trip to visit it since aunt Lari had been forced to work (i.e. humor her sister's desire to have the master bedroom and living room painted) during the majority of her spring break.  Of course, we did not take into account that EVERY ONE else in the metroplex might also be on spring break AND might choose to visit the DWA that day too. 

Chillin' while waiting in line to enter.

We waited quite a while to get inside.  Once inside, we discovered it was ridiculously crowded.  There were people bumping into us at every turn.  It took forever to go through the rain forest exhibit.  Bubeaner insisted on walking (holding hands considering the crowd) but soon his good humor deteriorated into an outright fit with stomping feet and loud screeching.  It was to our benefit that all the noise from everyone else drowned out his tantrum.  And, though we do not condone tantrums, it was a little understanding.  He wanted to walk and move and instead was forced to stand still waiting for adults (that should no better) to move through the exhibit.

Bubeaner and Momma trying not to freak out about the large crowds.

We also discovered that, although it is named the Dallas World AQUARIUM, about two thirds of the exhibits we NOT marine life.  We liked the monkeys and birds but for that (with much better view and less crowded) we can go to the zoo.  It was quite a disappointment.  Although, Bubeaner did enjoy the little parts that included fish and turtles... when we finally got to them.

Bubeaner enthralled by the fish.

He could have spent all day watching them.

The turtle in this exhibit would swim back and forth 

playing with Bubeaner

Exhausted and disillusioned we finally decided to head home.  We might consider another visit when it's less crowded.  But we might also just wait until Bubeaner is a lot older.  For now, we will stick with the zoo.

Aunt Lari and one of the three lonely little penguins

in the "large" penguin exhibit.

Upon our return we were greeted with uncle Ivan and Sarah!  They had decided to drive up to celebrate uncle Ivan's birthday with all of us!!!  Bubeaner was overjoyed to see them.  He ate his dinner at home and was supposed to be asleep in his car seat while we went out to dinner.  Bubeaner would not have any of it.  After all, we were at our favorite Thai/Japanese restaurant.  He knows the food.  He loves the food.  And he even insisted on eating dinner again!

Bubeaner started with his favorite: Nanas!

And how could he not try at least a couple of eel and avocado rolls?