Baby Patterson

It's all in the message....

2012-01-22T21:40:00.000-08:00

Just to document some of life's happenings, this blog is truly a gift. I have a chronological account of my children, some months more frequent posts than others, nonetheless, a documented history. Today is no different, a few words on the changes among Kaitlyn and Dylan, a few surprises, milestones and of course comparisons to note how different they each are!

Kaitlyn launched into the alphabet the other evening when getting ready for bed and for the first time E V E R I hear Dylan singing along. He had it just about nailed, all sang with his deep voice in a grunting rendition of letters. He beamed to be singing alongside his sister. Potential for a duo in years to come? I wouldn't be so surprised if each of them pursued an instrument and/or vocal practice as they respond so well to music. Dylan, especially, is intrigued by instruments. Kailtyn has her days but limits her musical inquiry with fierce opinions and short attention. We'll see what it may amount to.

Copycat syndrome. Did Kaitlyn start this trend? It's a common occurrence around bedtime. She will copy everything I say as she laughs and displays a mischievous grin. I can hardly take it at this time of the day, as generally my patience is tapped, I feel behind and burdened with what lies ahead for my night after their bedtime which that ritual alone can bring me gray hairs. In any case, Copy Cat Kaitlyn appears. Now I see that Dylan is the same. It's not a mimic of me, but rather of his sister down to body language. The poor guy. I wonder if he even thinks for himself sometimes.

Saving grace: I found this shape sorter APP and added it to both the iPad and iPhone today. These two kids are mesmerized by it and thankfully, since it's the same APP, maybe playing a different shape sort, they each are learning, gaining dexterity skills, focusing and in all honesty, they are quiet. Dylan surprised me with his success in matching shapes-Kaitlyn of course was making leaps and bounds narrating her accomplishment with each shape reveal. Oh boy! I really have two children that represent both ends of the spectrum.

Dylan has been AWESOME in preschool. His teacher is an absolute Blessing-because of this the transition from Mommy to classroom is a breeze. Plus, he really wants to be there. He carries his lunchbox into school every day while Kaitlyn leaves it on the sidewalk and says, "Mom, I don't want to carry it. YOU carry it." And then she darts away. Having them both together adds to my confidence in his being there. If he was the older sibling starting school first, I think the experience would be traumatizing. BUT, he's been tagging along for over a year and a half for drop off and pick up and so it's only right that he appears to be more seasoned. All the students in his class know his name and know that I'm Dylan's mom. It's super darn cute!

Kaitlyn has been terrific with being the BIG SISTER to Dylan. She instantly goes from fend for your own self to possessive sister once noticed on campus. She's a bit of a drama queen...okay, she is THE drama queen or maybe I should be more appropriate and say she's a stage hog! She loves attention and the more people notice that Dylan is now going to school, the more she is right next to him as the BIG SISTER role. It's hilarious to watch this behavior unfold! She LOVES attention....

...And, LOVES attention so much so that I am realizing I don't give her enough of that quality attention she'd get if it was just her and not her current 'Share Mommy' reality! In her eyes, I'm constantly with Dylan....and truth be told. I probably am. If my children read this when they are older (which may happen)...here is it: Kaitlyn, I do struggle with showing my love for you, instead, it's easier for me to say it. Dylan sucks the physical touch out of me naturally so it's an obvious observation to assume I love him more. BUT, to you both, should you be blessed to become parents in this lifetime of yours, you will come to find that love you have for your spouse is one type of love. The love you have for your first born child becomes a different love and the love for your next child is that first born child love, but on steroids. Our heart has a capacity to love each of you beyond imaginable. My job is to figure out how to ensure you experience this unique love for YOU, and not feel shadowed by the love I have for other people/things! For the record...I love you both, individually and quite immensely!

xoxooxox

New Year for New Change

2012-01-01T23:18:00.000-08:00

This year I will be 35.

This year Kaitlyn will be 4.

This year Dylan will be 3.

This year Steve will be .... hmmm. Well, we will both be more gray.

I could easily write a novel, sparing no chapter, to capture the events in the Patterson household over these last two months. But, seriously? Who has time to do such a thing when your nights are sleepless, screaming and cat fights become the house white noise and doing dishes is more than a chore, it's a full time job! I've signed up for sibling rivalry battles that start at daybreak and end when the children slumber. Dylan has developed a sour face and won't budge when he wants something...yes, the broken record type of asking. Kaitlyn loves to teach what she knows and of course decode Dylan's conversation, reporting to me the very important statements he makes.

I'm forever amazed at the love these two have for each other and then amazed at the mere fear they give each other when one pushes force first, pinches, scratches or my favorite, grabs by the neck. Oh the physical love is displayed quite aggressively some days!

Dylan got his first pair of underpants this past December. He was pretty enamored about the whole thing, seeing Thomas the Train below his belly or on his rear left him speechless and all smiles. We haven't tackled potty training yet-or at least where it's a priority. I secretly think this child will stay in diapers for another two years if we'd let him. BUT, Dylan starts preschool on Tuesday and it's here that I know his relationship with the porcelain bowl will start! They offer potty training as if it's part of the curriculum!

Kaitlyn still doesn't wear earrings, but asks for diamond rings. She sports leggings and won't wear jeans. She will wear any branded princess or fairy shirt for days on end and will shiver at a simple shirt with ruffles. She can buckle herself in her carseat and thank GOD can't unbuckle. She loves to teach Dylan about anything and everything that she has already learned. For this I am grateful...but then she also loves to act like me and boss him around incessantly. I often have to intervene and remind her that I'm the mommy! For the longest time it was all about mermaids and now it's pretty much all Princess Patterson here. She had a day trip to Disneyland with Steve and cousin Natalia...this sealed the deal. Her fantasy world blossomed in eight hours and more so than ever before, if it's blue, it must be Cinderella's. Yes, that means she'll drink out of the blue cup-Dylan will be subjected to the pink one. It's that simple.

Kaitlyn will get sucked into a TV show and Dylan will not. Kaitlyn will focus on art projects as if performing surgery...she's very particular and detailed. Dylan will shove markers into his mouth, pound the table with the crayons and for no particular reason at all, dump all baskets of toys onto the floor to then walk away. It's fun, real fun!

Dylan actually cuddles. He will get his head nestled into my neck/shoulder and even place his arm around me when I'm laying with him for nap time or bedtime. Kaitlyn will either grab my hand to hold or just ask that I lay down near here. She's sort of over the cuddling days-she's got too much exploring to do. Dylan wakes up at 6 or 6:30 daily. Kaitlyn could sleep til 8:30 daily, if I'd let her (or if Dylan would let her)!

My moments with Kaitlyn have improved tremendously. We get a kick out of girl days together, or just crafting. She's been responding to my direction much better than months ago-but she still finds ways to test my patience and as of lately, really challenge my upset meter. I get livid when I see her bully her brother. I just sense this tough chick mentality forming and then see this angry Kaitlyn show up. It's not pretty. I have to remind her that her behavior is not of the Kaitlyn that I know....this generally can snap her out of her mood...but boy does it get ugly! And of course Dylan, the biggest mimic in the house, just dishes it all right back. So not only do I have one sour Kaitlyn, but two sour Kaitlyns when Dylan mimics.

If they could answer....

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: Dylan it's frozen blueberries, juice box, and trader joe's granola bars. Kaitlyn it's Kraft Mac & Cheese (yes, has to be this brand) and salad.

Q: Favorite cartoon character?

A: Dylan would jump to anything with Curious George. Kaitlyn would thrive if her only friend was any of the following: Super Why or Team UmiZoomi (and the princesses speak for themselves).

Q: Most recent tender moment.

A: Dylan asks if I'm ok after I cough. Kaitlyn stops time when eating side by side at a restaurant and gazes into my eyes, places her arm around my neck ever so gently and tells me she loves me.

Q: If I could have one...

A: magic wand to wave and all dishes would be put away, floors would be mopped and toys would be picked up, I'd be a HAPPY mommy all the time!

Q: Marshmallows...

A: Dylan simply looks at the empty mixer bowl and asks, "Momma, can I have some marshmallow, please?" Kaitlyn could live off marshmallow puff if I'd let her. I could probably too...so Biggest Loser here I come!

Q: Baby Jesus...

A: Kaitlyn knows we celebrate the birthday of Baby Jesus on Christmas and that Jesus wishes for all the good girls and boys to have gifts in His honor so He commissions Santa to help with the distribution! So glad we can add a little faith teaching in the midst of our fairly secular life....slowly this is changing. The kids and I started attending a nearby Lutheran Church for the catechism program-been superb to date!

Here's to a New Year of opportunity to learn as a mom, to grow with my children, to become a better person! This year will be better than 2011, anything will be better than 2011!

9 feet of sheer purple...

2011-11-08T22:58:00.000-08:00

That's how she went to bed. Nine feet of sheer purple fabric hanging off her head. Kaitlyn is obsessed with having long hair and finds that wearing mommy's scarves or as of tonight, scrap fabric is the way to fully enjoy the frill of Rapunzel like hair. It's been a good bribe when having to brush her tight curls-I often say, "If you want long hair you must take care of the hair that you have so it can grow; otherwise I will just cut it off". No matter the attitude of the moment, she will snap into a submissive daughter fully ready for me to tug and comb through her knots (which are abundant no matter the time of day...her hair is THAT curly)!

Dylan has become possessive. Of course possessive of me but that's been going on since birth. Now it's all about his pillow. When laying down to bed or nap time with him he gets real serious about your positioning and will literally by use of his hand, draw an air line of a boundary indicating where his pillow ends and where you may lay your head. It's funny and quirky at the same time but a very serious issue for him. I like the strength in his ability to set boundaries already at the age of two...

And speaking of two, this boy acquired another year and another reason to further cling onto me. He woke up on Friday, the 28th of October and has been in a hyper Mommy Hold Me mode that often plays out like this:

Drags his body as he makes a monkey hold around my thigh begging for me to "Hold You, Mommy, Hold You"

or my favorite,

Grabbing the bottom of my shirt and tugging, pulling, tugging more, not letting go as I walk around.

C'mon boy, I'm two inches from the little one and it's not close enough. There really is truth behind the phrase, "Mommy's Boy". One day it won't be so cool and he'll be begging to be dropped off on the corner of the street as to not be seen with me!

Kaitlyn continues to be Miss Bossy, Miss 'Sours' (her word for my word, Sassy), and borderline obsessive compulsive with how she wants her bedding to lay upon her. She will spend a few minutes tossing her blanket into the air over and over to get the right positioning onto the bed and once under she is known to kick and scream to only start the process all over again. No-in case you are wondering, I cannot help with this. That is yet another cause for tantrum. We have our hands full with this girl. She's been knee deep into wailing these days and I'm not talking about a developing interest in whales...but rather, a developing issue with wailing requiring a great deal of P A T I E N C E.

Kids require PATIENCE I never knew existed within me. Actually, I think patience was a word defined by a mother for truly this word has great application and gets maximum usage daily. My patience is often tested within the first 30 minutes of rising from a slumber. While the initial hello of Kaitlyn's morning is generally very soft spoken and sweet, maybe includes a kiss or hug, once Dylan is over his morning bear attack, umm, I mean bear hug on Kaitlyn, the sibling rivalry begins and is ever so loud. Forget it, I'm going public. Sorry Dear Husband, I can no longer keep our children quiet so you can get sleep (thank God Steve typically sleeps through all lion roars and Princess pitches).

It's been a fun few weeks of adventure. To capture a few great moments...take a peek at the following:

Post Halloween, trying out all the candies!

Mr. Fisherman

(Steve followed the kids with Kaitlyn's Barbie fishing pole

and would say that he was fishing for Mermaids and Sharks-huge hit).

When answering the door. Well, okay, maybe not.

Super Star.

That face!

Surely they would win 'Best Spirit' on the block for themed family trick/treating.

Their 1 year old daughter was Horton from Horton Hears a Who.

Backside of Fairy Princess Mermaid and Shark.

Frontside of costume-Kaitlyn had to carry her tail!

In line to see Sir Topham Hatt from Thomas the Train.

Dylan was glued to him from the moment we stepped into line.

High fives were exchanged, holding hands was favorable...

and still for the camera these kids looked miserable!

Look, it's Thomas the Train!

Off he goes....!

Uncle Benet chilling with Super K!

Great face 1.

Great face 2.

Ahhh.

In line waiting to board the train.

His great face.

His great lips.

Post train ride. Not sure who was most happy...me, Unlce Benet or the kids.

...and there you have it.

2011-10-10T21:01:00.001-07:00

It's another report of random notes, rich with personality and obvious highlights in our life! Enjoy the cliffnotes...

Our sweet Kaitlyn has no fear. Snakes, reptiles and the like were a part of her summer program at school in early August. She was quick to volunteer for holding one of the visiting reptiles! (Photo was taken by a teacher and sent to me as she was overly impressed by Kaitlyn's curiosity)!

The sun was beating down with great intensity. The MOMS Club took a hike in August up the street from our home to really just wear out the children. We didn't get too far, maybe a quarter of a mile...but the energy expenditure did the trick! Naps for all, including myself!

Sassy by daylight, and even sassy by nightfall.

Driving by my brother's neighbor, and here you go, the community Bison making his friendly way to the front garden for mid-day grazing. West Yellowstone was such a highlight to our summer, this is just one of many photos...the wildlife is surreal.

She drew this mermaid and said Grandma would like it because of the blue and peach. The hair is supposed to be long and flowing like Rapunzel (her latest craze....it's lasted well over a month, an obsession with wanting long hair).

Us girls celebrating our friend's daughter, Brylie, first birthday.

Hanging with Papa for National Grandparent Appreciation Day...

And here is Grandma...

Great Grandma, we love you! PS. The monkey body art is from the earlier celebration at our neighbors party!

Dylan at the LA County Fair-a bit serious for this riding horse!

Raspberry picking with our friend, Daniel, at the end of September up at Riley's Farms. Not one raspberry made it to the car. We were at the end of the season, but still picked quite a few!

I thought they were in bed, sound asleep. I heard laughter and when I peeked in, this was worthy of a photo. Notice Dylan in a tutu? Real fun night, for them at least!

Kaitlyn is our house artist, she crafted this one fairly quickly and titled it Bread. Must be influenced by Grandma's bread baking!

Can't let this go unnoticed! 80's night for Steve's CEP conference in Vegas, early October. He went preppy, complete with the pegged pants (see below). I went classy 80's if there is such a thing and sported the worst ever rayon pleated & tapered elastic waisted pants. But, make up and hair....not so bad despite how bad the photo is!

Hanging at the park in God's biggest tree in Rancho Cucamonga, for sure!

So, there you have it. A few highlights of the kiddos and even a shot of me, despite the transformed blue eyes! I will leave you with a few statements made by Kaitlyn today:

"I won't pick my nose and eat my burgers any more mom." She said this as I was painting her fingernails. It was always my rule, I won't paint her nails if I see her eat her burgers. I've noticed a great improvement, so I offered to paint them tonight. This is her style: Big Toe is hot pink. All four other toes are purple. Fingers: Thumb is hot pink. All four other fingers are purple. Interestingly enough, her 17 year old cousin, Talia, paints her ring finger a different color then the rest of her fingers. I just learned this last week...are these two girls related or what!

She came whimpering out of her bedroom tonight saying that no one was in her room to protect her. We go through this almost nightly. I told her that Jesus and Mary will protect her because they are everywhere, in fact, they are even in her heart. And...without a missed beat, she launches into"But mommy, my heart is broken."

Dylan is pooping consistently in the potty. He asks for it and then once situated on it, he's a pooping machine. I think having an older sibling is helping as every time Kaitlyn has to use the potty, he cries out of frustration that, he, too, has to use it and doesn't like that she is occupying it!

Krammie the Caterpillar

2011-09-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn has a love for all things tiny that slither, slide, hop, roll or crawl in the comfort of our yard. Today her adopted friend was named Bella, then a series of other names as the day progressed, until she finally was satisfied with Krammie the Caterpillar. This little bugger was given royal treatment. She carried him faithfully around the yard, made a bed for him, gave him exercise opportunities (let's just say the intention was good but the method was painful to watch-she was banging his bowl that was his 'bed' onto the window repeatedly....oh my). At one point Dylan got a hold of Krammie and this is where his life began to fail. Dylan pinched life out of him literally and so as the afternoon fell into nightfall, Krammie was found limp and already into the preliminary stages of gangrene. Kaitlyn didn't care, in fact she still held him with high regard and such care. Finally she was convinced he would be better off on his own and that she would find another friend. Well, that didn't last long, either. Within minutes she was holding him and providing him such love as if this force of energy would perk him up once again. In bed saying prayers, Krammie was included!

I wonder what will be in store for us tomorrow. My feeling is that Krammie died many hours ago so he'll probably be right where she left him.

A refreshed outlook....

2011-09-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes growing pains are really just that, growing pains. I would summarize the blur of recent months as being rich with growing my two growing pains, but then I'd dismiss the actual moments of joyful expressions, the heartfelt sentiments and general tender sweetness that both Kaitlyn and Dylan possess regularly. Like so many other areas of our lives, the negative encounters cloud all blue skies. When you no longer see that beautiful monochromatic azul throughout your horizon, or even speckled here and there, you are in trouble. Thankfully I was re-grounded a couple of weeks back and seem to only celebrate the blue coming at me from all angels directly from Heaven! Lovely, really. Just lovely.

So on that over the top note, may I shed some light on moments worthy of celebrating!

Dylan has pooped a few times in the potty and lets me know daily when he needs to poop prompting the opportunity to sit on the toilet, pretend pushing as if he is really pooping, flush and say goodbye to all the make believe poop and pee. It's quite the routine. He has skipped using any potty training seat/device and sits directly on the toilet that you and I sit on. Yes, he is a big boy. For the record, there is an occasional push that does produce a poop, like earlier today!

Kaitlyn, after making her a cheese quesadilla that had a little apricot preserves spread like butter within, said to me, 'Mom, you are just the greatest. This is the best.' Is this really my child? Last week at Costco, as if struck by the Kindness Bolt, she wrapped her arms around me and said, 'I just love you so much mommy.' Makes me think some child at school does this to their parents regularly and thus she is adopting this practice??? No matter what the inspiration, the mere fact it is verbalized made me swell within...I felt like my insides just might burst from an overload of warm fuzzies.

Dylan tried putting on his own shoes the other day. Just like his sister. Today he did put on shoes, but not his own...her mini high heeled pink princess shoes with feathers and faux diamonds (along with her teal sunglasses and hot pink/silver purse)-it was a sight!

Kaitlyn can really test boundaries, and she does so frequently! However, she has begun this new phase of obedience...at least I'm classifying it as such. When I hold firm on my stance for something simple like telling her to wash her hands, head upstairs for the bath, etc...it may take three times for it to register through that I'm not succumbing to her 'pretending to not hear you mommy' behavior. She will all of a sudden state, "Ooooooooohhhhhkaaaaaay Mommy," and head to her task. I must say it gets me boiling sometimes but the second she launches into the "Ooooooooohhhhhhhkaaaaay Mommy" gig I'm fully satisfied and officially accomplished!

"I wanna help." Dylan. This is his mantra right now. It's borderline annoying so when I feel this angst creep inside me I take a breath and give thanks that I have a child who wants to be so engaged with what's happening in my world and around. His favorite tasks right now are: vacuuming, doing dishes, mixing things in a bowl at the counter, sweeping and loading the wash. Kaitlyn is completely opposite. I will ask if she'd like to help with something and very frank she will respond with, "I cannot help today. No, maybe tomorrow." I count my blessings-at least one of two is eager!

Needless to say there is much to celebrate despite Kaitlyn chucking a baby walker toy down a flight of stairs while Dylan was on the stairs; the two of them tackling each other like opposing football teams complete with bite marks, face scratches and hair clumps; the indoor screaming matches and the all time favorite....grab the toy from the other and run....run everywhere until crying is heard and either someone has a bruiser or blood is shed. It's a jolly life over here at the Patterson household. I'm lucky I somehow stay out of the crossfire-and truth be told, I am really lucky. These children are such little gifts, I'm constantly reminded at how precious they are, how beautiful they are, and how blessed I am for being their mother!

Vintage GLAM

2011-08-21T23:55:00.000-07:00

Her school had this photo session one day back in June...I wasn't there for it, but wish I could have been that fly on the wall. These are ADORABLE!

Phantastic Photos

2011-08-21T23:46:00.001-07:00

Dylan walking Cosimo. He's such a helper.

Summertime in the back yard. Look at air-born Kaitlyn!

Music tour with our MOMS Club, Kaitlyn gets to play the violin!

My two helpers doing dishes. Start them young...right?

Look at that concentration...and the mini Steve side profile! Steve actually does this same thing, tucks in his lips when concentrating!

Dylan was born for the outdoors...already in a Davy Crocket raccoon hat and fish in hand.

Kaitlyn's curls, up close and curly!

Kaitlyn and Kendall bumping noses during a dance at her friend, Luke's birthday party (he's the boy right behind her in the blue wet suit).

Kaitlyn, Kaitlyn, Kaitlyn

2011-08-21T23:18:00.001-07:00

For a brief moment I was saddened that I have not posted since just over a month ago. I had secretly vowed to myself that I would blog more frequently and truth be told I've had the time but not the desire. For most of this past month I've had a sour taste in my mouth. My sweet Kaitlyn will be the one to give me a stomach ulcer, premature gray, high blood pressure, acne, extreme cramping and quite possibly unhealthy stress lines over laughter lines. Oh well is what I say to it all tonight. She's a kick in the pants and sometimes has an attitude I wish I could kick away by whatever healthy discipline tactic there is. I've come to realize she's an over the top sassy, independent, highly smart/brilliant, overly stimulated child that knows my number all too well. We butt heads more than I'd like to admit and while I may feel like a confident mother, it takes her one phrase, screamed, mind you, to get my floodgates highly strained from holding back the tears. Her aggressive moments of screaming phrases come about at the most random times and are no appropriate conversation starter.

"I don't need you mommy. Go away."

"Get me out of here, I am not looking at you."

"I want to kill you." (Don't fret, this phrase has been verbalized twice-and while it did kill me for the moment, I've moved on, worked through it).

Yes. It's heartbreaking, it makes you wonder where these phrases can come from within one little mind. I actually am not certain that spelling out some of my examples are even worth making public, but in reality, I know I'm not alone and what I've come to conclude in my quest for healthy discipline is that no one talks about this stuff. I need to talk. I'm driven by connecting and finding resolution and when my daughter and I butt heads as often as we do, it's been an edgy ride over here.

Now, what I realize is that I'm merely at the beginning of this life long relationship with over the top sassy, independent, highly smart/brilliant, overly stimulated Kaitlyn. I wonder what's in store for me with each passing year...so far, I cringe. On the flip side of this dark side, I am learning so much about myself. Why do I get into such a head spin when she acts out? Why is it just with me and not with Steve or anyone else? How can I more effectively set boundaries with her while also maintain a nurturing sense? My answer as of late is loaded. First and foremost, I'm not aggressive by nature. I sure feel like I've emanated this more often lately, but in becoming aware of myself, nothing works when I allow my emotions to spiral and control me. Montessori practices in her current preschool are my saving grace. Very simple redirecting has it's place in my mind. I'm not yet highly effective with this, but I see I get better results, faster, when I employ a more calm, affirming tone with her while removing her from a situation to diffuse really me, but by default, also her. Next, these emotions I get as a reaction to her animated contrary statements and the like, are currently taking me on an analytical roadmap of my brain. I'm sorting through emotions from past experiences in my life that are similar in emotional response and figuring out how to resolve it. One could say I'm doing some self-improvement over here? Talk to me in a month and see where I'm at...

Because Kaitlyn continues to love me, express her love to me and with those around her; because Kaitlyn does eventually listen and does act obedient when in the 'older sister, teaching younger brother' mode...her love over rides any ill addressed verbiage she may push my way. It still hurts. I'm still sour at times. But, I, like every other mother out there, is on a learning curve. We don't have all the answers and we sure don't have the template to follow, the one size fits all handbook. That would just be too easy, now wouldn't it?

Words Worth Writing

2011-07-17T02:19:00.000-07:00

Dylan was found straddling his crib this week.

Kaitlyn loves brushing her teeth and having her hair combed (I told her that if she didn't take care of her hair daily then it would end up looking like Uncle Garrett's...we both gasped at the thought)!

Dylan has officially annoyed me when shopping. I've reached my limit, shopping with both kids no matter the time of day is just too much testing of my patience.

We experienced a store walk out this week as both kids were in the throws of tantrum hell. Time out was had by both on the store's sidewalk....a mere 3 minutes later I had angels in my cart. Hmmm.

Kaitlyn's chores now include adding a new trash bag to the trash container in the kitchen and feeding Cosimo, I like how this is progressing. Dylan, on the other hand, continually loves to vacuum, sweep, and take the trash out (all but the trash is done solo)!

Off to slumber...photos of our trip are next....I do promise this, I do!

Travels of Time...

2011-07-15T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at the growth of both Dylan and Kaitlyn since my last post. Growth both physically and emotionally. Steve pointed out how social the kids have become and I think we both silently attribute this new found comfort within the public eye to our recent travels abroad. As many of you know, we took a 12 hour flight directly to Rome on the 25th of June (Dylan's first airplane experience) and boarded a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship, the Navigator of the Seas for a seven night Mediterranean adventure followed by four nights in Rome. Sparing the litany of details, some of the key highlights to this trip:

Merita: our Trinidad Stateroom Attendant. She was responsible for our nightly towel folded animals found in sheepish locations as to offer an element of surprise (turtle, flying bat, mouse...to name a few); doing Kaitlyn's hair for the last Formal Night on the ship which basically illustrated to me that I'm really a white chic when it comes to figuring out what to do with Kaitlyn's curls; and continual child play with the kids-she had Dylan giving her kisses by day 2 and Kaitlyn would have been fine if we had Merita actually put her bed (which never happened, mind you...but that's how engaged the two of them were)!

Lost Luggage: despite not having our children's luggage until day six of this seven day cruise, we sure found appreciation for the fact that I had packed a set of PJs and a second set of clothes along with four extra panties for Kaitlyn in our carry on. I realized if my luggage would have been lost I wouldn't have handled it with the carefree spirit like that of the kids. They just didn't know any different and heck, when you are Kaitlyn and get to wear pink leggings day in and day out, Life is GRAND!

Malta, surprise stop: Athens was on the original itinerary but due to some strikes and demonstrations being planned on the week we were to visit, our itinerary detoured to Valletta, Malta. Ummm....no one needs to give this a Plan B title. It could have always been Plan A as the stop at this port was picturesque upon first spotting it on the horizon. Steve took incredible pictures as we approached the port with the morning sun warming the hue of the native limestone rock used to build the walled ancient city.

Shoulder Shrug: Dylan, our little flirt. Merita for certain was on his list of girlfriends, but so, too, became Simona (Italian native from Cesara), his 16 year old sweetheart. He developed this adorable shoulder shrug that he would spontaneously do, drawing forth all sorts of audiences, cheek pinches and tummy touches. Next to rising his shoulders up to drown out his ears, was his overly friendly 'Hello' to all in the elevators complete with an arm extended and fingers flapping!

Babies R Us Strollers: Store brand umbrella strollers were purchased for our trip, one in blue with green looking pac man figures and one in pink with an obnoxious hibiscus floral pattern. Sure to be found when in a crowd-these strollers were carted through old ancient Roman pavers throughout the famed Colosseum (one of the Wonders of the Middle Ages), the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), numerous windy street ways and the 14 polished floors of the Navigator of the Seas. If only we had a pedometer to track the mileage...

Auntie Jessie, our Nanny: yes, Auntie Jessie came along to support us with the kids and she did more than support us with the routines and logistics of the children...she kept us on schedule, always had an answer for where we were headed during the next port stop, next dinner reservation or immediate next hour. She held her own with managing the quick witted tongue of Kaitlyn and momma's boy cling-wrap named Dylan, so much so that I took notes. It became a trip where I was privy to watching firsthand how to effectively contain unruly behavior within the course of a two minute time out; be coached on how to do it myself and then provided feedback when I did it. Ummmm....Nanny bootcamp for me and even for Steve-it was a real gift to have her along on this trip not only for the children portion of it, but as we've come to calculate, Jess and I have been friends for over 29 years. A trip of this sort was a lifetime opportunity!

Fruncle Denis: having your own private Priest to take you on a tour of Rome is surely something people would pay high dollar for and rightfully so-Denis was intense, immense with knowledge and a touch insane. We shared the best meals of our trip with him, were privy to symbolism and historical depictions found within massive murals that lined walls of chapels within some of the most elaborate cathedrals, we witnessed his devout nature in true form and engaged in personal introspective late night talks (for Steve and Denis this was generally coupled with a bottle of sorts); he guided us well to ensure we explored the cupola of St. Peter's Basilica and experience the not so common Vatican Necropolis-Scavi Tour. The Pope was actually in our path (for Jessica and for Denis...Steve and I were with the kids at our residence), and proved to be a real memorable moment for Jessica. Gelato was introduced to us intentionally on the first day and was enjoyed everyday that followed! The children took to him as a familiar face which made for easy touring-despite the fear of death that flashed through each of us as Denis stumbled upon Kaitlyn's mortality hanging over our third level balcony, legs fully suspended in the air....thank you Denis for your swift action.

Privo Shoes: my favorite sandal this entire trip was my Privo sandal...not so much my Teva's. Privo took me everywhere in her bronzed leather T-strap. I felt constant comfort and even a touch of style near all the gladiator renditions that surrounded me!

Enough of the words....my next post will illustrate the memories had that will stain my heart and mind for years to come!

The current stages...

2011-06-01T22:01:00.001-07:00

My girlfriend called today and we both shared a moment when we spoke of her daughter turning five! It's just incredible how this journey of motherhood takes flight and in no time you are facing not a toddler but a kindergardener...Today I'm in awe at the developmental stages both Dylan and Kaitlyn have fully embraced. Let's start with Big D! He's a T A N K...completely solid and strength of not just a lion but a lion-phant. Yup, take the size of an elephant and add that protective spirit of the lion and you have now visualized what Dylan is becoming.

His latest and greatest isn't all that great as it entails a lot of clean-up. Spitting/splattering his food out followed with laughing. Stuffing all sorts of objects from macaroni to crayons and playdough into all openings of his high chair and behind the pad of his seat...

His typical hello to anyone that is within arms reach involves a slap, repetitive hits on the head or body slamming. The latter is just awful as most children, due to the element of surprise, just fall right over. In order to prevent his aggressive greeting I follow his every move when in a crowd of little ones saying over and over, 'High Five Dylan, High Five'. Sure enough, upon hearing it the arm swings turn into a lovely game of high five with all the new friends. Thank You God for making toddlers so forgiving!

He mimics everything that Kaitlyn does down to how to hold his fork. She is starting to realize that what she does truly impacts him so I am seeing more and more little Miss Helpful blossoming around the house as she loves to teach him how to do things.

Dylan is speaking so much and since I spend my every waking hour with him all his jumbled sounds make sense to me. We seem to converse about the things he wants...or we identify all the things he asks about by saying, 'What's that?' Last week he figured out not only how to say NO, but that it really does have a meaning. He's no shy boy with NOOOOOOO. It's said with that exaggeration, too!

Being all boy can be best summarized by the following:

Dylan has experience three major falls in the past 24 hours and isn't phased: 1.) he literally flipped with perfect form, off Kaitlyn's bed landing on his back. He cried out of surprise for a mere two minutes and then went right up on her bed, jumping again and laughing. 2.) He has crashed on the concrete sidewalk from running too fast, skidding his knee only slightly but truly crashing down. 3.) He fell off the kids picnic table onto his head on the concrete patio tonight-cried fairly hard for another two minutes and then was off distracted by a toy. Brutal. He will have battle scars by the age of three and be drafted for the NFL by 12! Yikes.

The other being all boy statement to share is his obvious interest for girls, especially Cinderella and Belle. Hmmm. Yes, upon opening Kaitlyn's Beauty and Beast book, the image was of the prince and Belle at the end of the fairy tale, gazing into each others eyes. Dylan didn't give two cents for the prince, but Belle...that boy made some ohhh ahhh sounds and smack! Kissed Belle, not only once, but twice followed with more oohhhh and ahhh sounds. As for Cinderella, well, she is plastered all over Kaitlyn's PJs and numerous toys that Dylan points her out and calls her name, 'Cdrella, Cdrella'. My boy, oh my boy.

Now Kaitlyn is the big three year old and lets us know daily. She was so aware of her birthday leading up to the big day and then afterwards, she knew she inherited a new age. We aren't too certain where she is going with her interests as right now one day to the next she is all over the place....maybe I can capture an idea of what it's like:

She loves music-requests her favorites and will sing along to the lyrics.

Next day she yells, 'turn it off. I don't like that song.'

Music class one week she will be so engaged, taking in the entire lesson of whole notes and C key recognition, singing along with the teacher and playing the drums with great rhythm. The following week she proclaims she doesn't like guitars or the piano and only wants to draw snails from the original whole note image on the paper.

One morning she jumps out of bed with great enthusiasm for school and then ten minutes later is in a hissy over her complete disdain for school. And on that same vein, she completely dislikes pants and shorts (the kind that have buttons & zippers), certain shirts in her drawer and has a preference for wearing shirts with sleeves no matter the weather outside.

Going to the bathroom is a given 20 minute endurance test of patience-she will sit and sit and sit no matter how rushed you may be, she will still have to go something...more pee-pee or poop. In other-wards, don't rush her, don't tell her you have to go anywhere, just ignore her and she'll wrap it up fairly swiftly-at least faster than trying to intervene.

She is a nurturing little sweetheart in between being Miss Loud Bossy Big Sister. Her imagination is so over the top these days that we are often engaged in some Kaitlyn story about anything and everything. When offering feedback to her story she will flat out tell you to stop talking. It's just hilarious even though some days I pull my hair out over it! When she is mis-understood you will find her go into this crazy body wiggle act. Her arms and legs are flinging everywhere as she is huffy and crying about whatever you may have said that wasn't what she either wanted to hear or what she was trying to talk about. Again, pulling hair out...yes. I just might be bald sometime between this stint of her being three and turning four!

She still wears tutu's with flair-often paired with something that doesn't match, a pair of leggings and without hesitation if the weather was cold enough, her ladybug rain boots. It's a style for certain, spunky and independent. Actually, quite stylish for her age-I can see this bud into a fashion-centric characteristic of hers! Her nails are constantly painted as she constantly loves the fluff and frill of the process. She clears her plate after any meal, takes it to the sink and pushes in her chair. She's a terrific encourager. I believe I was drawing her a mermaid the other day and during the drawing she was saying, 'Mommy, this is awesome! You are doing a great job'!! It's just such an authentic burst of excitement you want to record it!

She, and Dylan are just precious in their unique ways. Very lively-the two together and individually, well...they each have their own demands that keep me either laughing or yes, going bald!

Shots of great times...

2011-05-16T23:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a LONG time coming. I know. These photos are just a snippet of my iphone uploads. I realized as I was transferring the files that I snap so many shots while on the go but then as if I never took them, they stay in my phone lost in the electronic web of time. No longer...these are my favorites and cover the last three months of some exciting adventures, parkdates, playdates, shopping excursions and overall classic hours spent in our home!

...now in month three of big girl swinging!

In her words, "Mommy, I'm playing the stand up bass"!

Hanging with cousin Chiara. Carousels and suckers, what more do these children need?

This may be an indication of what is to come when Dylan has more hair.

And Kaitlyn, too....

My favorite image capturing his fro...

Who painted who? First water coloring session as siblings.

One of our favorite parks-the kids can run, and run, and run. Then, they nap. It's great logic.

Kaitlyn's Airel Princess Shoes-the only shoe of four pairs we tried on that she immediately stated, "These feel great, mommy. Yes, these are the shoes." Note, she actually pointed to the box as they came out stacked with the other sandals and stated then that she wanted that pair.

Our Easter Eggs. First year of coloring together!

Dylan with his 'twin' Luke at the park.

I'm not sure if this is any indication for what preference of transportation he'll desire...but, if you ask me, he does look like a natural!

The sunglasses do it for me. Too cool for words!

That's my boy!

Halle Berry at the Revlon Walk/Run 5K I did with a few girlfriends...She is way tinier than I ever imagined. Fun stuff-ran the route in 33 minutes!

Mother's Day and a carousel. Happy Girl. Happy Mother.

Sitting atop the biggest lady bug ever! This silly Kaitlyn look is so typical! See the atitude already?

Putting lipgloss on her girlfriend...oh my! These two girly girls were up to their ears in dazzling frills and sparkly lips!

A Mother's Day Note

2011-05-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

It's the end of Mother's Day and I feel exhausted but truly celebrated. While I wish Mother's Day rang well into multiple days, much like the the Jewish Passover, or the Muslim 30 day Ramadan, I will take a 24 hour spread of time. Being a Mother is like no other chapter of my life and quite frankly I couldn't go back to any previous one even though I can daydream at times of being child-free so I could carelessly shop on a whim and take overly long showers with loud music channelled throughout the house! Oh, those days are gone.

The days that are here are filled to the rim with adventure, imagination, way too many "NO's" and just as many "I love you's"...to highlight a few moments of late, here are some notes worth mentioning:

High Chairs are collecting dust as both children would rather dine on their knees or sit on the regular chairs than being in what they would consider the chair for babies!

Dylan, now at 18 months, has expanded his B vocabulary with: Balloon, Ball, Boo for Book and seems to be hard at work with refining a few random words such as umbrella (usually sounds like 'umbellah') and uck for Truck-which of course is accompanied by a big sound and finger pointing as he only says this word when he sees one...He will have to speed up his talking to have any chance at debating Kaitlyn (that girl was singing the alphabet at 18 months)!

I say to Kaitlyn, "I love you, too" and she responds, "I love you, three".

Kaitlyn continues to go to school three days a week and most recently began to stay later on two of the three days to encourage an afternoon nap. On the fourth late day we had a break through-she was found in a deep slumber when I arrived to pick her up. I was so ecstatic, I couldn't wake her up to take her home. It was the strangest feeling, I just wanted her to stay sleeping and sit in awe over her.

Dylan is known at Kaitlyn's school on a first name basis and he even thinks he goes to school when I drop Kaitlyn off. He carries in her lunchbox and places it in her cubby along with helping himself to the cups of water. Her teacher, Ms. Daniels, includes him in her good mornings and circle time when we arrive a little late. Needless to say it's been a wonderful environment for both the children. The routine has paid off and will further pay off for Dylan when he starts there in the new year!

It seems that a million details have been lost this past month due to my lack of documenting the stories of these children. I'm not even sure I can retrieve them from my memory as each day is flooded with new experiences, memorable and imaginative conversations and my ever present mental fog.

Just a highlight...Kaitlyn is truly her father's daughter. This girl is an adrenaline junkie. Recently when I asked her what kind of car she wanted to drive when she was big she corrected me with, "Mommy, I don't want to drive a car. I want to ride a motorcycle." Then she went on to clarify that it would be pink with diamonds. Another adrenaline hint was what she revealed she would like to do for her upcoming birthday....fly in a helicopter wearing her princess dress. Yes. Yes. This is a super frilly girl that will one day tell me about her sky diving adventures, bungie jumping and off-roading excursions. I'm not sure I'll want to know in advance-they will be risky for certain!

A Walk with Cosimo...

2011-04-08T21:04:00.001-07:00

"Dylan has a peanut. Cosimo has a peanut.....(pause).....I have a congina!!!"

Profound words from Kaitlyn as we strolled down the neighborhood sidewalk.

Snow Day

2011-03-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

Southern California is wacky. One day it's raining, the next it's 77, and even within one day you can use heat in the morning and AC by afternoon. I'm not sure about all this dramatic change within such a short timeframe but I am certain about my love for snow and the outdoors. We were overdue for a visit to the nearby peaks that with the recent showers we've been blessed with I planned a quick afternoon trip for the four of us to throw ourselves into a mound of snow and possibly get a real chill.

The children were beside themselves. Watching them interact with the snow was such fun-Kaitlyn showed real sport, enough to let me know she'll be snowboarding by 5 and Dylan may be following in snowshoes with myself. I truly love being in the snow and dream of the day that I'll have my own snowshoes to allow me the freedom to just jaunt off through vast valley's of freshly fallen snow!

The short trip took a mere 40 minute drive, required no special gear and provided the nature fix I had been craving. A few snowballs were enjoyed and of course, no snow day is complete without a snowman...meet 'Snowy' (Frosty's cousin)!

FeBreeze...no more!

2011-03-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

Almost four hours ago and the smell remains. I was on the phone with my brother-he a Catholic Priest studying in Rome, so yes, my mind was on him, catching up and not so much on the children. All I can recall was that Kaitlyn darted off to use the restroom in her typical fashion and Dylan followed. I do remember not hearing too many sounds coming from Kaitlyn which should have been my first red flag. Generally she declares, 'I need my privacy, Dylan!' This is followed with a series of nagging statements until I intervene and peel him away from his sister's shadow! Not tonight.

At some point in my conversation with 'Fruncle' Denis I decided to take a peek in the restroom to see if all was going as routine, anticipating a few statements to direct Kaitlyn to pull her panties up and wash her hands...no. Not this evening. A cloud of tropical peach and mango FeBreeze greeted all my facial orifices and then my eyes met Kaitlyn holding the bottle of spray, clearly caught in the act. How many times did she spray this and where did she spray? Instantly I shifted focus on Dylan-he must had been a target...I couldn't finish my mental accusation as there stood Dylan, both arms, up to his elbows in the toilet bowl playing with Kaitlyn's toilet paper and yes, her poop and pee!

Are you kidding me?

Pee water had been splashed all over the floor. Kaitlyn was standing with her panties and pants around her ankles, the FeBreeze bottle in hand with fingers still wrapped around the nozzle, repeating, with great confidence, 'it was smelly in here Mommy, smelly!' As if I care right now, little girl! Still on the phone with my brother who was now put into a laughing hysteria, I managed to get both kids out of the restroom. It was a situation. A real situation.

The Adventures of Bella and Aspiga...

2011-03-09T00:27:00.000-08:00

Holding onto one of the two mermaids!

Up close, Aspiga...she was the source of great entertainment this evening over dinner!

Two mermaids. One girl's wild imagination!

Acquired as a gift for being such a great student at Kaitlyn's first music class today, Dylan and Kaitlyn left Hi-Line Music with two plastic mermaids. Sure. They could have taken a deck of cards, Kazoo, bouncing ball, or even a mini yoyo. Nope. The mermaids were eye candy for Kaitlyn and Dylan always wanting what his sister wants, found a mermaid, too!

On the way home Kaitlyn began narrating the mermaids present life. At one point I overheard her voicing for each mermaid, "I'm MAD." "No, I'm MAD." Yes, both mermaids were mad with each other! By dinnertime, Dylan had really forgotten about these plastic creatures and thus Kaitlyn became engrossed in her mermaid tales. When Steve asked her what their names were, Kaitlyn responded with, "I will ask her."

"What's your name?" Pause.

To Steve, Kaitlyn stated, "Spella," holding up the purple mermaid. Wow! We both were taken aback by her clarity of name. And then Steve inquired about the second mermaid name. After a quick banter of clarification, Kaitlyn stated, "Aspiga," holding up the blue mermaid.

Aspiga? Are you kidding me? This girl's imagination is ON FIRE. Spella morphed into Bella by the time dinner was over-but at no time did Aspiga ever change or simply be laid to rest. These two mermaids were carried around the house, had a splash in the bath and are currently nestled around Kaitlyn someplace in her heaping mound of blankets upon her bed. Everyone, Kaitlyn, Bella and Aspiga are in a deep slumber. I suppose no one is MAD now!

What Happened?

2011-03-01T22:45:00.001-08:00

I will spare the photo. Getting into pajamas this evening inspired this note. I'm wearing a blue and white striped tee with pink and black pajama bottoms; to keep me extra warm, I finished my look by adding an army green sweater. Wow. This screams Hot Mama Alert! Watch out Steve....I'm just tantalizing right now, can't you tell!

C O M F O R T.

STOP! Halt! NOW!!!! This is what happens. You see it everywhere, you hear about it...the Mother Frump.

I understand this reality. I understand how it creeps into your daily life, first with the leisure pants (you know those elastic waisted forever forgiving velour pants), then the baggy lifeless shirts and overnight it's like you stop wearing make-up, accessories and daily have hair in a ponytail as you are lucky if you get a quality shower once in a three day span. It's a sad moment right now as I realize I've mastered the look and the lifestyle.

Ugggh. Sigh.

Can this awareness be enough to snap me out of it? I used to be fashionable, sassy and memorable with my selected wardrobe pieces. Now I'm hanging out with a lumpy muffin top adorned with stretch marks, stringy highlighted hair in need of a serious root job, and sorry folks, boobs that are not only smaller than I ever had before, but way more saggy. Wow. I said it.

Hello Beauty. You in Here? I need to rekindle our friendship. It's been a while since I let you out...

Yours truly,

Overly tired, out of trend mother of two toddlers under the age of three!

Bath time at the Patterson household...

2011-02-28T20:20:00.000-08:00

Best Buddies

Considering the effect a smile may make....

Jumping to music is a part of our bed time routine...thanks to Daddy. This trend was started when I was traveling in NYC back in December. It really gets the kids energized and then like a train wreck, they crash into their pillows from complete exhaustion!

Mr. Shark and Miss Butterfly...

It's a lovely post-dinner routine that ensures a deep slumber, for all! Bath time is something Dylan highly regards. This big little tank climbs up the stairs when I mention it's time for a bath as if on auto pilot. Soon he's already into the bathroom and finding ways to sling his leg over the bathtub to get it started, clothes on or off, it's water that he wants! Kaitlyn on the other hand will delay every step when hearing it's bath time even so much as to pretend she doesn't hear me. With two children that operate on opposite ends of the bath time ambition scale, I'm pulled literally in two directions. The silly part is that once Kaitlyn actually gets into the tub, with great resistance mind you, she doesn't want to leave. As evident in the top photos, these two are total pals. Bath time illuminates how much fun they have when playing with each other. Side by side, swimming in the tub...they are their own pack. Occasionally things get hostile and finger nails scratch, hair is pulled and head locks are seen. Generally bath time is rich with splashing competitions, including the kind that requires getting me more wet then them. Tonight was a special bath as they each had new hooded towels to greet them when coming out to dry. Uncle Benet scored these cools finds, a butterfly for Kaitlyn and a shark for Dylan. Could they be more cute?

A photo shoot...

2011-02-19T23:17:00.001-08:00

In early February my girlfriend (Lisa O'Donnell Photography) met the kids and I in Claremont for a morning jaunt with her incredible camera. I'm super happy with these photos-so much so that you have to see them ALL if we get lucky and have you visit! Here are just some highlights to this wonderful morning...

See Lisa's blog for her latest developments: www.lisaodonnellphotography.blogspot.com

Best Friends....

2011-02-19T22:53:00.000-08:00

This year has already brought incredible changes...Kaitlyn is officially potty trained. It's apparent she can be a panty-wearing big girl for the rest of her life! Dylan has developed an intense strength-so strong in fact that he has broken through the plastic film on two drum toys (one which was quite thick and durable), bruised his sisters head probably permanently, and crushed Cosimo's leg on more than one occasion. As of tonight it was declared by Kaitlyn in the bath as she placed her arm around her brother, 'we are best friends'. The two toddlers I have surrounding me at all times are blossoming at a rapid pace that my attempts to document any new milestone is a miserable failure!

In an effort to capture a brief history of moments here are a collection of candid shots sure to bring smiles and even a few stories:

Water. This boy would be in the fountain if I'd let him...

Too cool for even himself...maybe.

Taking over big sis's rider!

Dylan really loves Cosimo. Taking a tender moment.

One silly morning in February taking photos from my phone!

An accomplished slide-goer.

Daddy's little Search and Rescue helper.

Artsy Kaitsy

2011-01-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

We hosted a body stencil playdate...Kaitlyn wasn't into the stenciling, but rather doing her own family of stick figures!

Out of the blue she gave me these statements. I had to document her art of Nana and that Nana was proud. Are you kidding me? I just love this one!

I drew the red from the opposite side, I was going to draw a triangle and Kaitlyn insisted she finish what I started. Wow. I didn't see this one coming!

Chalk drawing. She works with all mediums these days!

My letter A is in blue. All other markings are from her. Not bad is what I say! She's pretty proud about doing the letter A...she does it often and in the most random moments! I've seen her do B and C...I think we'll focus on her name soon!

At 32 months she has an elephant's memory. Kaitlyn can remember details that I had simply forgot or recall names of people, places we traveled to, stories we spoke about to imagined pretend-play scenarios as if we engage in the topic regularly. This memory bank is certainly a daddy gene and as for my gene influence it is evident that our Special K could make Picasso's in her sleep.

She has now grown into a new phase of art...first comes the circle for the head. Next are the two eyes, with pupils-mind you, then the nose and finished with a smile. She goes straight to the two ears, generally making multiple circles on each ear indicating the wearing of earrings. This is then followed by two straight lines that are drawn directly from the lowest curve of the circle to become this stick figure's legs. Each leg is finished with a cluster of overlapping circles/ovals to illustrate the wearing of shoes. Her final touch always ends in the hair after she either does or does not do arms with hands. The hair is one of my favorite elements of her work, generally big, but as of late it's been drawn with curls, spikes and even bows! She's a trip. It's very methodical. Yet, she never ceases to surprise me.

Over the weekend she was spending quality time with her dear cousin, Natalia. The two of them were engrossed in drawing. Kaitlyn drew one of her infamous stick figures but from an upside down perspective. Everything was upside down. The steps she took to create this figure were a truly remarkable unfolding of talent. She's going places, that's all I know!

There is this sassy-smart-assy edge to her blossoming character right now. Hmm. Yes, I know it will further emerge and challenge me, exhaust me. Heck, it already does. The key I find is simply engaging her. Play dress-ups with her, act like wild animals or make up our own songs and pictures....it's through this engagement she is calm, focused and in a sense, providing me with a mini respite from her often unannounced tantrum outbursts-you know those kind that make you realize you did have ears!

Of course I cannot forget to mention she is also a touch on the aggressive side. I often wonder where this gene comes from as I think my husband wouldn't touch a snail somedays and then I shatter that image with the reality that as I type he's completing his SWAT medic training which basically equates to: man + gun shooting + suspense + medicine = aggressive happy man. There is aggression everywhere in his world. Ok, for real, this has no influence on Kaitlyn, yet. I just think she's VERBAL & PHYSICAL and will always be this way. She seems to tackle Dylan either with love head locks or serious body slams any opportunity she desires. He simply just rolls along with her unpredictable shoves, pushes, grabs and even finger pointing bossy comments like, 'knock it off Dylan' (a common phrase of mine....ha, it's an eye opener when your child begins to imitate you). Ultimately I imagine this aggression will translate into a very confident young lady who has educated opinions she is willing to share (solicited or not), have a history of competitive sports and be one to still give me hugs and everyone else for that matter, well into her adult hood!

So here it is...a snapshot of our Sweet Wonder Girl K! I may be her biggest fan.

Body Language

2011-01-22T23:22:00.000-08:00

My little guy isn't so little. While he has yet to develop much of a vocabulary, his expressions sure say a lot. Some of my favorite moments with him occur during our bedtime routine. In the bath he will stand up and stare straight into my eyes for a reaction and as always, I give him the standard 'on your bottom' statement sternly looking right back at him. Without hesitation Mr. Obedient sits down only to do it another five times, each time with the same mischievous look. What's unbearably adorable is something that lasts for a mere second...once he stands up his initial face and body language is that which radiates "I'm proud, look at me! I stood up!". Some nights I hate to interfere with his moment of glory, but the fear of slips in the tub would haunt me (they already do as almost 90% of Dylan's baths are shared with Kaitlyn...and the two of them in the tub can turn into a war zone of pushing, hair pulling and shoulder bites not too mention splash raids)!

Kaitlyn can't get enough of Tinker Bell these days. Since Christmas it's been Strawberry Shortcake or Tinker Bell that gives me respite in the afternoon and her a touch of quiet time. If not napping, Dylan will engage in the quiet time showing a sincere interest in the Disney castle that pops up when the show starts. This results in a house shake as his hearty voice turns to ON and out of his mouth comes a drawn out and LOUD, 'MOMMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA'! The best part is not so much what he is saying but how he looks. Both palms, facing upward, frozen at mid-chest height. He's sure to be a crowd pleaser.

There has been a shift in my confidence and I'm not certain where the credit lies other than I've been a mom now for over 3 years (yes, I'm including the pregnancy since really...your life changes when you see that + on your home pregnancy test). I can hardly wait to see what confidence I'll have in 13 years and then in 23 years! Other than the drastic changes that happen both physically and intellectually from the infant to toddler stage, I think the only other comparable era in ones life is designated to motherhood. What you prepare for, actually endure and learn in a short span is mind-blowing. It must taper out eventually, but right now it does seem like I'm trying to push through a self-inflicted barricade of lessons. The little confidence that is developing has helped tremendously!

I've had a series of Ah-ha moments. Some worth mentioning here and others intended for my inner think tank: 1.) always keep time on your side which translates to....plan your day so Kaitlyn has ample time to do all tasks on her own since she will undo whatever you do anyway (dressing and undressing herself, putting toothpaste on the toothbrush, going in and out of the car, buckling herself in the seat...the list does go on); 2.) preschool is awesome which means I give credit to the school environment for often teaching or at least reinforcing excellent manners, demonstrating compassion, and encouraging independence (the latter is not in need of anymore encouraging, Kaitlyn is fiercely independent)!

As always stories could be abundant, but time is limited so with these last statements I do bide thee farewell....

Kaitlyn has been known to exclaim to me in mid-day, as a complete random statement un related to anything in her surroundings or even day's experience....'Mommy, I need chocolate.' Oh how the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!

Dylan has come to really master the melt-down-into-the-ground-lay-upon-the-floor-crying action on cue when I walk into the room (mind you this only happens when he has been spending what would be considered quality time with someone other than me...I apparently make his world shatter upon arrival)!

I continue to stay up way too late, get up only when the kids are awake (can't seem to get out of bed earlier than the two of them to squeeze in a morning work-out) and still consume too much sugar, probably too much fat and way too much caffeine! Hmmm. What a combo.

As spoken by Special K herself...

2011-01-07T22:29:00.000-08:00

'MomMom, I want my bubble gum' She is referring to a gun shaped bubble blower.

'No, I want more shake milk'. Yes, I was corrected for telling her it was a milkshake and not a shake milk.

Club Holiday Party

2011-01-04T21:32:00.000-08:00

Hmm...Red. Tis the Season.

Smiles for the camera.

Our little Winter Reindeer!

I hosted the MOMS Club holiday party this year in mid-December. Such a fun time for the kids and moms. Moms did a cookie exchange (hello to a new favorite, peppermint & chocolate dipped oreo cookies). There were over 20 kids running around, toys were everywhere and so were the moms out of necessity. Such a fun time having the spirit of the season grace our home. These photos were taken by one of the moms, Lisa O'Donnell-she is starting her own photography gig and has been an incredible resource for documenting the events we have (and a few family portraits in this new future)!

Grab a cup of Joe...

2011-01-01T22:36:00.000-08:00

Photos....Photos....Photos....with all this digital craze I have way too many photos and just can't stay organized enough with the downloading of them, labeling them and then of course, using them! So, in an effort to relive some moments and highlight a few great times....I have put together a simple collection featuring life starting with Steve's 40th birthday (Nov. 23rd)...

But first...a few general must-knows about life as a Patterson:

Dylan is by no means a slight boy. His figure is shooting up as well as out-I fell in love with a love handle today (most likely a temporary creation due to the way he was sitting...but, still a love handle in my book)...He has a fierce addiction with banging objects on Kaitlyn's head-a dinosaur toy, a drumstick, a teapot, his hand, a block, a remote...nothing stops him. She, of course, gets all bent out of shape and if I ignore the abuse a brawl breaks out with both of the kids attacking each other to the floor. It's quite a sight.

Dylan has a growing obsession for blueberries and continues to be repulsed by bananas. He is surprising me with his palate, while Kaitlyn seems to eat all things-or at least attempt to eat them if dipped in ketchup-Dylan stays clear of all things when crowded on his try, he takes a double take at pasta when paired with red sauce, giving it the eye and ultimately deciding he's just not into it...he gobbles up meat, any kind and pushes his milk away when he's had enough.

He fits into size 24 months or 2T on top and 18 months on the bottom (for length and can wear some 24 mos/2T for waist fit). He's a PAIN to change! This boy does not sit still when changing his diaper nor does he sit still when dressing him. It's a test to my patience every time with the exception of putting on socks. He'll stick his leg out and flex his toes indicating he's ready for me to shimmy the sock on...pretty adorable.

Finally, he's all boy. The climbing days are in full swing around here with the sofa being the favorite place to climb, stand on and bounce (which makes me rich with nervous energy)!

Kaitlyn continues to be all princess. She notices when I paint my nails (instantly, as if she just watched me walk out of a salon), she just recently began to comb my hair and twist it, pull it and attempt to put clips in it. She was regressing with potty training since I returned from NYC and to spiral her out of episodes of peeing on the floor or in her panties, we started this new conversation about teaching Dylan how to use the potty. Thus far it's been working wonders as this girl loves to boast about things she knows of and things she knows how to do! I'm often told what Dylan is getting into since Kaitlyn has learned right from wrong...she reports to me such things as,'Mom, Dylan is getting his hands wet in the potty', or 'Mommy, Dylan just hit my head', or 'MomMom (said real fast-my new nickname apparently) Dylan is going up (implying he's on the stairs)'. What would I do without my little informant!

Kaitlyn is showing less and less tantrum behaviors and now more and more birthday suit marathons. Yes, she seems to undress herself whenever she can around the house and pretty much run around you until you can physically stop her to get her dressed. It's an hilarious stage...and also a trying stage (like all the other ones thus far). Reading is her favorite thing to do, I'm certain of it. If she finds a book she's never read, forget attempting to read it to her. She's all ready to grab it and take off, telling the story out loud should anyone desire to listen. Her imagination is over the top and thus the story telling, based upon the photos, can be an uproar! Kaitlyn's latest phrase to say once she's done something worthy of correcting or disciplining is, 'Funny?' and when you respond with a 'No, that's not funny...', she will counter with 'Yes it is.' Of course, smiling the entire time...

And so it is with these few notes I holler to all...Happy New Year!

Steve's 40th birthday I was able to kidnap him despite his 2 hours of sleep from his previous night and take him to Catalina Island. There we enjoyed a lovely brunch while he read through his entire gift, an anthology of his life as written by some dear people (possibly you)....very cool and very touching! Then we ventured to the island's Zip Line made famous by The Bachelorette with Ali-since we always watch this frivolous show, it was only right that we had our own Hollywood afternoon!

Yes, we look like naturals!

Typical Steve stance these days....what would he do without his cell? I can only dream.

Roadtrip to AZ following Thanksgiving: the cousins meeting Baby Finn!

Baby Finn and Kaitlyn in conversation! Notice his stunning blue eyes?

Baby Finn hanging with Dad (Uncle Jonathan)....what a cutie this little guy is and continues to be as he rises to great health in the Seattle Children's Hospital under the blankets of tender motherly love, fatherly care, hospital know-how and united prayer!

This is what a rested mother can look like! Here I am on night 4 of my 5 night trip to NYC, solo....yes, no children and no husband...to hang with my dear girlfriend, Jenna! We just loaded up on some silly delicious Italian lasagna and pizza after having had an excellent day romping around in the city!

I loved my trip to NYC THIS MUCH!

I'm beginning to think this fishing obsession could be genetic. Will Dylan follow in his Uncle's footsteps? It appears so....(at Grandma's house).

'Tis the Season'

Trying to get a Christmas Photo...they were so engrossed in the balloons or the dirt or what was going on by the adjacent fountain. One of the gazillion shots I took did turn out...barely!

Daddy's little girl.

I know art will follow her wherever she goes. Look at this girl...

Winter Preschool photo...darling!

I've dreamt of the day when she could push her own cart around. It has arrived! She was ecstatic!

My chef. This is her new chef knife (kid friendly-from Santa)...and yes, she is regularly helping me. After this stint of chopping cilantro I had her busy with the salad spinner. In a simple moment of not watching her she had added a spoon full of sour cream, all the cilantro she cut and the grated cheese....ingredients I had out for the chili we were going to eat. This girl takes after me...salads call for everything but the kitchen sink. I think she'll be a natural in the kitchen!

Delivery Day! In lieu of traditional gifts for our neighbors we put together 10 children's books and took them to the local hospital pediatric ward. On the way up the elevator I told Kaitlyn she was such a good partner, helping me get this big basket to the sick children. She laid down the law and said, "Mom, I'm not a partner. I'm a princess. You're a partner."

Hmmm. Such confidence.

Delivering our Christmas cards to the neighbors!

Dylan's new bedtime buddy from Uncle Scott & Kimberly. Christmas at my folks house-celebrated on the 26th!

Daddy's new car (Denali-extended) has the kids in the very back row and compared to my hot rod where they are situated a mile apart, in Daddy's car they are within reach. Here they held hands for the entire drive from our home to Grandmas's (when Kaitlyn let go of Dylan, he would cry)!

Quick notes...

2010-12-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

December has finally arrived and with that I anticipate a few ornaments crashing to the floor, the possibility of our tree being pull over and of course Kaitlyn's new dress shoes being worn faithfully to bed each and every night! It's a delightful time of year and I confidently say that as I am thrilled to report each of my children are entering into new phases of their personality...a softened phase for Kaitlyn and a real tender phase for Dylan. Goodbye pushing, shoving, and finger pulling and hello to polite, yet opinionated, and loving Kaitlyn. She is full of conversation from the moment the sun comes up til the stars dance in the heavens above. Some noteworthy highlights of late:

Kaitlyn is about 97% potty trained. We occasionally have the mishap on the floor in front of the potty...I can only guess she didn't pull herself up in time-I don't know as she likes her privacy. She abruptly lets you know with her hand up to you...'Stay Away'. Ok, I saunter back to whatever the task is at hand and wait for her declaration "I went pee pee Mommy" or a frustrated cry indicating she really needs some help. The latter is not always met with grace. The poor girl can be on the edge of a major meltdown due to frustration with getting her panties on or trying to turn the water off...ask for help? Oh no, that would conflict with her fierce independence. FYI, we sent her for a night at Nana's Potty Bootcamp (our mother-in-law...she was animate about getting her potty trained) and she came home like a big girl.

Dylan is the hugging type at this moment in time. He just loves his sister and finds ample opportunity in the day to go up to her and place his arms around her, then let go and carry on his business. Yes, I melt each time I see this. No, it will never get old. He also does this open mouth kissing business...ask for kisses and while it's not an on cue thing, he does eventually find your mouth, centers his in front of yours and like any good Hollywood smooch, leans in for a big one. I can't get enough, it's really darling.

Of course I could write so much more as the details on these two kids would fill twenty novels alone...but as always, time doesn't permit!

Big Boy

2010-11-07T23:01:00.000-08:00

Facing Forward!

1 year

25.2 pounds

31.5 inches

75th percentile

He's a BIG BOY!

Pre-Halloween

2010-11-07T22:51:00.001-08:00

Our masks I made for our Masquerade Ball...

Steve in his Masquerade Ball bliss-yes, he's in a tuxedo. We were on a vacation in Desert Springs for his partnership. What a lovely time away. Kids were with the grandparents, and GRAND they are for having them for two full nights!!!

Trying on one of the masquerade masks we were going to wear for our Ball as a back up plan!

Fall Festival in nearby town...just a darling face!

When Dylan's costume arrived in the mail, Kaitlyn HAD to try it on. Here she is busy with velcro and Dragon dress-up!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-07T22:25:00.000-08:00

Hmmm. Daddy sort of looks like Dragon Dylan. Or does Dragon Dylan look like Daddy?

What a shot!

The Slayer Dragon Dylan...he's in there, I promise!

Kaitlyn and cousin Natalia, with Dragon Dylan. The girls held hands THE ENTIRE TIME!

Beauties!

Butterfly Princess Kaitlyn and Fairy Princess Natalia.

Off they go!

Did I mention they held hands the entire time?

Wings of beauty!

Even the dog had wings...no, he wasn't with us!

ONE and weighs a TON

2010-10-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

Balloons A L W A Y S bring Dylan to smiles.

Lunch with a balloon. What a great date!

Airplane cake, complete with homemade marshmallow clouds!

Why of course Kaitlyn helps out with the blowing of his candle!

Diving in.

Yes, he likes it!

Loving on Kaitlyn's baby doll and getting cozy with Godmom, Chiara.

More sweet loving!

All boy!

Check out those feet!

Preschool Halloween Bash

2010-10-31T09:58:00.001-07:00

Kaitlyn's preschool did a Halloween Party this past Thursday (Dylan's actual birthday). What a party! Food, live music (a bunch of drums-just great as there was a huge line of various sized conga's for the kids to play) and costumes! Dylan wasn't dressed in his costume as he was asleep when we left!

The band-great steel drumming!

Butterfly Princess doing her part of the music!

Looking over her shoulders to see her wings.

'Ring around the rosie...'

'we all fall down....'

A morning to capture...

2010-10-30T22:58:00.001-07:00

Side profile. Trying to show off his 'Heames Butt' (aka, No Butt)!

Future pianist.

Notice Kaitlyn's mis-matched shoes. Intentional. She was pretty proud for putting them on this particular morning.

Getting ready to compare legs and feet.

Checking out their toes.

Is it just me or are these kids attempting the same expression?

Checking each other out.

'That was funny, sis' says Dylan with a slap to his knee!

'Dylan, I'm not funny. Y O U are funny.' Kaitlyn states this in her typical 'I'm the boss of you' attitude.

Catching some respite. Notice her lovely bed hair!

Same morning. Post bath. Dylan is attempting to side tackle/head lock his sister!

Kaitlyn swiftly moves in on top!

And back down to the side...

Chilling for a moment before striking out again!

Let the fun begin!

He's all tuckered out!

Having a great time, despite a soar leg!

Moving on up in the world! Dylan's first facing forward car seat. He was in heaven, in awe and awake to take it all in!

Yummy fingers!

One. Numero Uno. Primero.

2010-10-28T01:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dylan!

As I cast my gaze upon you I'm struck with the changes that have taken place. Already one year of age and in reflection, it seems my memory can only retrieve life moments from recent weeks so my awe is clouded yet confident that you have stained my deepest memory banks and heart much like Kaitlyn. To recall the recent milestones is worthy enough of celebration, but the one year mark is comparable to the rites of passage some youth take as they enter into their years of maturity. Dylan, your blossoming personality puts me into a thoughtful state, allowing me to envision you becoming that friend we all have who seems to only say the words we need to hear, or that boss we desire to emulate; you will be a man of character and integrity. One with whom people will become influenced by simply from your demeanor and presence. I see great things for you, little guy and no, I don't believe it will be ruled by a football!

As the subtle lifestyle changes take place...the conversion to whole milk from formula, the shedding of the infant car seat to introduce the forward facing big boy seat...I am tickled within that the infancy days have come to a complete close. Now I am a mother of toddlers. Two glorious rays of sunlight that seem to penetrate my day with a vibrancy of colorful chaos, you both twirl around my legs and heart with a rhythm of possibility.

Dylan, you have taken on a role of obedience quite different to that of your sister. One 'no' and your eyes are onto a new task with your body right behind. Your tantrums are mild and generally include dancing feet taking you in circular paths. Screaming is not not your forte, only singing and grunting, both conducted with your baritone of a voice.

I cuddle with you Dylan knowing these days will be short lived, and in months our reality may be a headline such as...the demise of the mother son bond. Oh how I pray those days never come.

As we continue on this life together, you a toddler and I your 33 year old mother, I stand tall by your side, ready for your tomorrow, in awe of you today and in gratitude for our yesterday.

Happy Birthday, my son!

PS. Kaitlyn doesn't think it's your birthday, but rather her birthday as she says, "My birthday is not from May".

Scribbles Gone Great

2010-10-09T23:50:00.001-07:00

No prompting. I promise.

Smiley faces are a HUGE thing with Kaitlyn these days.

She has mastered the circle and now the eyes, nose, mouth, and I must say, my favorite part...the hair! Love the texture!

This girl has shown great interest in art which comes as no surprise considering I'm her mother! Yes, that sounded very arrogant-I'm just over the top ecstatic about her blossoming interests and obvious talents!

Imagination Information

2010-10-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

"It's a sandwich, a purple one."

Chomp. It's a block with a puzzle piece upon it.

"Ice Cream, Mom. Orange."

"Not Chocolate," I ask.

"No. I have chocolate, you have orange."

Another block is held out to me, with a puzzle piece upon it.

"I'm on a motorcycle Mom. Vrroooom, vrooommm." She sits, straddling our elliptical machine, hands on the bolts of the arm bars, voice going full force as if on a fast ride.

Kaitlyn's imagination has E X P L O D E D. Somedays she roams the house roaring like a fierce lion or extinct dinosaur. I've found her busy in her play kitchen cooking all sorts of pastries and today, happily found a moldy red bell pepper in her play oven. Hmmm. Had to explore all parts of the kitchen to see what else could be in hiding! It's really a joy to watch her develop this conversational imaginary world. She is extremely inviting, always asking if I would come along on her helicopter trips, her astronaut excursions to the stars and moon and if I'd ride horses with her, 'Dylan, too' (stated as if he is not to answer but strictly comply with the trip reservation)!

Dylan has found his "I'm ashamed" face. He attempted biting my shoulder today so I voiced a firm 'No." Instantly his head dropped, his eyes dropped and his upper lip was pulled in as if about to launch into a quiver. While I think it's the most adorable response, it's heartbreaking to see his instant response become so sensitively dramatic! To be quite honest, it takes my breath away for a moment leaving me in a frozen state. His response is on the other end of the pendulum of a Kaitlyn response!

Upon waking up and receiving my incredible 'big hugs and kisses' from the kids (just about my favorite part of the entire day) the series of chaotic events begin to unfold as if a domino effect taking me hour by hour through my day. Almost routinely I fall into a power struggle with getting Kaitlyn dressed before we leave her bedroom in the morning. No shirt is ever good enough, and pants? Forget it, she's on strike. Pink leggings win so often I think about stocking her drawers with nothing but pink leggings! Dylan is fairly clingy in the morning which drives Special K nuts prompting her to antagonize him...that's the first hour of daybreak. Antagonizing Dylan starts and ends our days!

She: runs behind him and pushes him down.

She: pinches his cheeks and arms for no reason.

She: she shoves her finger in his mouth to then pull it out with crazy force against his cheek.

She: pushes him down again.

She: did I mention she pushes him down?

She: steals his food on his tray.

She: grabs any and all toys out of his hands.

She: clobbers and tumbles upon him using her entire body.

She: wants to play anything he is playing with.

She: tries to poke his eyes.

He: falls down and cries out.

He: pulls her hair.

He: pulls her hair again and gets a clump of hair.

He: laughs. Laughs a lot.

He: cries out.

He: flinches. He's in a constant state of flinching.

He: follows her around.

He: wants to play anything she is playing with.

He: walks away.

Oh the two of them are a riot when in the heart of each other's space. Sporadically throughout each day there are moments of grace-Special K will be in pure harmony playing with puzzles while Dylan is obsessed with the pink vacuum, both in their own imagination.

At the end of the day I take great pride in knowing my children have budding minds, little fingers that like to poke, prod, pry and pull. I love that they are verbal and caring, expressively emotional and while often irrational, can show fierce independence! Dylan on the verge of one, and Kaitlyn 28 months, these spirited children of mine keep me up late, get me up early and continually remind me how precious life is!

On a mission...

2010-09-26T01:02:00.000-07:00

One day I wake up and my son is walking, my daughter is reading and my hair is more gray. Dylan began launching off into new horizons this past weekend, taking his first set of consecutive steps in the kids bedroom. He is so proud of himself when he walks that his head is held high, his tongue sticks out and his eyes hunt to lock with yours so he can relish in his feat!

Eight teeth with new ones on the way fill Dylan's mouth and help explain how he can maintain his hard-core carnivore diet. This kid is no joke-if it's meat he is on board for seconds and could easily have a third round. I have to get creative with his other foods as lately he has shown a dis-interest in pasta, yogurt, avocado and broccoli is out of the question. However, he has gained a preference for bananas which I never would have anticipated as he was revolting against them when younger! Suffice it to say, he's a big boy and despite any food dis-interests, his physique is not hurting. This boy is going to be a hearty hunk of love!

Kaitlyn drinks books. When I see her absorbed in a page I see a five year old Steve. Apparently he was reading encyclopedias when he was five and if this evening is any indicator, I predict Kaitlyn will be as well. She was animately choosing my books over her stack of eight library books for reading pleasure. As she turned each page she sat engaged with the words, pausing momentarily before turning to the next page. You can imagine this little girl, sitting upright with a 250 plus page book in her lap, all text, no images and her eyes glued, temporarily lost in her imagination with the details of some thriller!

The terrible two's have arrived and between managing aggressive love by Kaitlyn aimed at Dylan (and other friends), I'm in a constant 'No....No...' banter with her. It's an awful feeling to be constantly telling your child 'No.' I must stay intentional and not reactionary as things can escalate and get ugly fairly quickly-she's a little trouble maker. Pushing and shoving is becoming a household norm. Kaitlyn will walk up to you and just shove you in the chest. Where on earth did this behavior manifest itself in my daughter's ambitions? I can only rationalize that it's a post-biting thing that she will eventually grow out of (and, fortunately according to a book I'm reading-apparently, as well as Kaitlyn-these aggressive behaviors often spike around 27-30 months. Oh joy. Lucky me!).

Another noteworthy trend to mention is Kaitlyn's success with potty training...AT SCHOOL ONLY! Once back at home, a diaper must go on this little girl as she finds some way to do her duty not in the potty but elsewhere, most recently, on the dining room table. What? I was appalled when I heard this one. She apparently climbed up on the table to reach some flowers-total innocent curiosity here...and then did her number. Furious? Yes. This afternoon I found her passed out on her floor in her bedroom, no diaper, wet carpet, princess dress soaked. Oh lovely. It never ends. The hard part about this is that Kaitlyn knows all the answers when asked 'Where do we go pee-pee/poo-poo?' She totally gets it, but out of some other agenda, her gig when at home is to go on potty strike....unless, of course, I'm putting her to bed. The potty then becomes her best friend, often wanting to visit after we've been tucked under the covers. I know it will get better but for now I'm taking a short sabbatical from the potty training world.

Dylan has developed this grasp, or shall I say he has fine-tuned his grasp. It's intense. It hurts. It leaves marks. His stubborn streak arrives and watch out, if you are in the way, his arm will show you the door. Scoot on over! Dylan is on a mission. A few more random facts about the boy....he loves cords, ribbon and strings; he will melt down when at the fridge-if he is at your feet, it's as if all things in the fridge are eye-candy so shutting the door makes him upset; he is a little investigator-I find him analyzing things like the drawer of the dishwasher or the cabinet hinge; he is a cuddler at naptime and bedtime, often nuzzling right up to your neck and within in minutes, passed out!

I'm by no means haggard like I was a couple months back, but I am continually tired and in need of a mid-day rest where I can find energy to sustain myself through the evening to get the kids fed and in a deep slumber. Motherhood is never ending. With two children I feel overwhelmed at times by the magnitude of daily needs, and then some days it's like a dance. Once you learn the moves you know how to make your way through your day...Unfortunately not everyday is a smooth, wooden dance floor. I often have huge boulders in the way!

Let's talk gray hair. I'm in a funk-having the worse hair of my life right now that I am tempted to cut it all off and go pixie for a while...it would be S O O O O O easy! But, Steve might want to leave me then...just kidding! It wouldn't be his favorite choice, let's put it that way!

Enough with the random thoughts and updates, in essence, these kids are on a mission...

Dylan to continue exploring through his new found love of walking and Kaitlyn, to read through all of mommy's books and then teach her what was in them! Now that's a great idea...

Headlines in a sentence...

2010-09-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

The cutest boy in America.

Ok, the two cutest boys in American, Dylan with cousin Truman.

I love that I can say he is my son!

Kaitlyn giving Truman one of her famous headlock hugs!

Dylan has always kissed Auntie Cupcake-it's so endearing!

Dylan and me!

Park Date! In San Diego visiting cousin Truman, Auntie Cupcake and Uncle Jeff...

Cousin Truman laughing at Kaitlyn's response when she sipped carbonated water for the first time!

The tickle of the carbonation!

Dylan learned how to clap today.

Kaitlyn loves playdough and painting.

Dylan only wants to be on his feet...but he's not walking quite yet.

Kaitlyn would rather skip baths all together.

Dylan will be a diver, beginning with a career in bath diving. He's always looking for an excuse to take a bath.

Kaitlyn hasn't taken a bite out of anyone from preschool in over 6 weeks.

Dylan is a solid 22 pounds.

Kaitlyn's appetite at breakfast is next to nothing.

Dylan has found his voice and it's deep....I don't think puberty will be an issue for him.

Kaitlyn is into this phase of 'Don't touch my body'....and she means it!

Dylan can sleep through any noise Kaitlyn makes during afternoon naptime (thank God) and Kaitlyn generally sleeps through any noise Dylan makes during the night!

Dylan loves watermelon, kiwi, freeze-dried banana chips but still not a fresh banana.

Kaitlyn gives head lock hugs.

Dylan has a grip that makes Cosimo bark (when he grabs his ears) and Kaitlyn bald (her hair comes out in chunks if his hands get ahold of her curls).

Kaitlyn thinks band-aids cure everything!

Both kids drive me nuts.

Both kids fill my heart with tremendous amounts of love.

Both kids keep me tired, but ready for anything!

Both kids add to my laugh lines.

Big Girl Bed

2010-08-18T00:26:00.001-07:00

The B E D...Big Girl Bed...Princess Bed...Kaitlyn's Bed.

Frilly bedskirt needs ironing, but will be on this week to complete the look!

Fuzzy photo but classic Kaitlyn excited look...

Lost in Princess world...notice the satin pink clutch hanging from her arm and the rose ring on her finger? The entire evening had to be Princess Princess Princess so to celebrate the theme and the emerging need to get new bedding to fit this huge bed...she also got a gift of princess gadgets (cell phone, keys, lipstick-fake, ring, pocket heart mirror, etc that all fit into this satin purse).

Never did I think I'd be purchasing Disney Princess bedding for any child of mine. BUT, with Kaitlyn you can't help but want to indulge as she is nothing but Princess stuff right now. Saying 'Princess' gets her to smile, leap, jump, act all girly. It's pretty darling.

S P E N T...me, strung out.

2010-08-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

I'm sure every mother has these days where they find themselves walking around with an incredibly unfriendly stern face. That has been me for the past five hours or so. In hindsight, I'm the farthest from unhappy, but in the moment, I have had one trying hour after the next all thanks to my lovely Miss Drama Queen Extraordinaire, Kaitlyn Marie! Between Steve's borderline manic personality and my outstanding emotional range, it's no wonder Kaitlyn demonstrates these bursts of extreme behavior. Today was one of those days where she was loaded with hyper activity, over-intelligence (as I like to think of it) and tears of hysteria! Where to begin...here are some of my rambles:

-Was it the initial climbing out of her crib during 'quiet time' that had my emotions stirred? She was running around the house in pure glee for having slipped out of her crib without being reprimanded (Steve thought I let her out and I thought he let her out)....

-Maybe it was the fear that the two 7lb weights she chucked upon the floor only inches away from Dylan's body was the reason behind my negative energy...

-Really it could be simply from the fact that she is now capable of climbing out of her crib (she did it a second time this afternoon on round two of 'quiet time') and I fear the next stage of toddler bed nighttime routines...she will most likely make every night rich with drama. The anticipation alone makes me grumpy.

-My frustration is no doubt partly due to her over sensationalized reaction to a scuff mark on her knee from a morning walk...this little girl volume of both voice and tears resulted in an enormous, overly lengthy tantrum when placed in the bath (met with great resistance, mind you) and water went upon her bandaid. She was fierce with her stance, there was nothing to console her. She tightened up and stood frantic with cries of pain. Made me think for a brief moment that she was really IN pain...BUT, I'm not that easy. After a good verbal word exchange, a count to three (about 30 minutes of a tantrum later-yes, it was that exhausting to try to peel her out of the tub and actually take care of bathing Dylan simultaneously), and a new Strawberry Shortcake bandaid upon her knee...like magic, all pain melted away.

-No, I'm spent just due to the basic bedtime situation. Lately her gig has been to call out, 'I need to go to the potty', once placed in her crib. Honoring her request turns into a game complete with leg kicks and tears when I feel she is 'done'-she would stay on the potty for an hour if I'd let her. Couple this with the fact that she just can't handle going to bed without particular articles of fashion....her hat, silver shoes, her feather boa...and of course the stuffed puppy and pony. At least tonight that was the deal. Tomorrow it may be her 'snowman' hat and 'mittens' (mittens are generally socks worn on her hands) or rain boots with a headband. Aggghhhh.

All the while I'm working with Dylan-and tonight the poor guy had some serious cries from neglect. I had to leave him alone multiple times surely making him feel stranded upon the floor in order to tend to Kaitlyn in another room. It was an ongoing chain of events that have me at this moment feeling like I really wasn't signing up for all of this when I said I wanted to be a mom. I really felt miserable, unhappy and angry today.

Now that both kids are sound asleep and I'm debriefing my afternoon/energy, I feel a weight lifted. I'm going to get through this. It's no doubt a testy time and also a hilarious one..

I leave you with this......

She was looking at this carousel that rotates three horses when music plays (very small, fits on a side table). She declared the end piece of each pole that went through each horse was called the horse's peanut (for penis)! Hilarious!!!

The girl dress shop...

2010-08-02T21:20:00.001-07:00

Lost in her frills!

The classic Kaitlyn smile.

This last photo-her expression reminds me of a photo of my mother when she was probably just about the same age. Incredible how genetics sneak in one day and get lost in another!

It drains your wallet-well, not mine, but my mother-in-laws....it's a shop to experience at least once if you have a girl, Luan's Dress Shop (since 1952) located in Long Beach. Imagine walking into a dress shop that is exclusively for young girls, toddler girls and baby girls. Yes, it puts any Nieman Marcus or Macy's to shame as the racks in this shop are packed with boutique treasures. From casual to chic, from holiday to everyday, from headband to bow, from glitz to pearls, from handbag to throw, you could never walk out of this shop with one item.

One of Kaitlyn's latest Luan's treasures, this pink & dark gray Sunday dress is made of heirloom quality cotton, and adorned with black glass beads in the heart of the decorative pink flower. It's definitely a dress that needs special handling when washing! Kaitlyn wore this dress on Sunday and as usual, felt like a princess. Heck, she is a princess. She loves all things with frills, ruffles, layers, sequence, jewels, feathers and florals.

Now, if only we could find an all boy shop my mother-in-law would really be broke...

Urban Traveler

2010-08-02T21:08:00.001-07:00

Kaitlyn rode home with Daddy to allow both of us access to the car pool lane. It was her first time in a front seat and apparently won't be the last. She LOVED it, or as Steve said, she was over stimulated!

The serious co-pilot.

Dylan, 'I want your water, Sis'.

Kaitlyn, 'Dylan I told you it's mine, you can't have it!'

Friday was a day of exercise for the Patterson family! We loaded our bikes, our Burley trailer, and headed to Long Beach. Nana greeted us with her fancy three-wheeler, and together we cruised the boardwalk...

Dylan was vocal about his dislike of the entire idea from the minute his helmet was strapped.

Kaitlyn continually held her chin high and took on the big sister role with such grace-putting her arm around Dylan and expressing words of consolation...until they both had enough.

Kaitlyn figured ways to pester Dylan, toss items outside the trailer and sit in a way to make Dylan feel like he had no control of his own posture. A real sight to see, and for me, as they were hitched to my bike, a real sight to hear! Adventurous memories.

Mr. P90X

2010-07-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

Muscle Man. Mr. Six-Pack. Mr. P90X. I'm convinced he is going to be a tank not only because of his hearty size but also because he seems to have front row seats when Steve and I do our daily workout for P90X (yes, we have committed ourselves and successfully completed week 1)! The little guy watches with great intrigue and emulates our move. You can find him in his exersaucer in a jumping motion when we jump or make any swift action!

Dylan, oh Dylan. Having quit nursing cold turkey, it was an awful few days in the bosom department but only because I became temporarily engorged (which, for all you non-nursers and men...I had grown enlarged rocks in my bra that physically ached when brushed against anything). Almost two weeks into this nursing-free regiment and he hasn't gone looking for the boob like I anticipated. He really moved on and with that moving on my husband has moved in, moved into the department of putting kids to sleep. I don't know what it is, Steve has a gift with Dylan that gets this kid to delve into the deepest stage of sleep faster than I can make a bottle! I'm working it, let me tell you-there's really no reason I should put Dylan down now that I know Steve has this new found power (wishful thinking)!

His latest personality note is a gregarious shriek, almost ear numbing but not quite as damaging as what Kaitlyn's used to be. Dylan gets into this groove, especially when he's just been fed. While in his highchair, he starts squealing, legs start kicking and his arms start flapping like a bird. This is all followed by his hearty, deep shriek. The deep shriek makes his legs and arms stiffen, and it's never limited to just one-it's a true symphony of baritones!

Dylan loves Cheerios-so don't waste your money on any generic puff cereal snack, as he will turn up his nose and block any bite with his forearm. Actually, he turns up his nose a great deal. I'm diligent and thus continue to offer him a bite of anything and everything, clearly learning what will fly and what will not upon making a second attempt!

He's no official crawler, but he has developed a strong stylized scoot. Somehow he makes his way across the floor and in an instant, tumbles to his side or back and then just hangs out. He's incredibly fond of walking with support-this would go on for numerous front-door-to-kitchen laps if I'd allow it or if I could physically endure it! He's ready to take off, I can feel his fight for freedom.

Overall Patterson Family highlights:

-Two kids, a dog and an adventure seeking husband is all I can handle right now!

-Kaitlyn likes to narrate her day down to, 'Mom, are you folding laundry?'.

-Dylan is a master of the 4 oz bottle-not sure if he'll ever tackle 8 oz in one setting, it's not his style.

-Kailtyn has begun to sit on the regular toilet seat while barking orders to leave the bathroom so she can have some privacy!

-Dylan is into biting-geez, just like her sister! At least I'm broken in!

-Kaitlyn loves to dance. Did I mention that Kaitlyn loves to dance? Seriously-it's in her blood from both sides, go figure!

-Dylan has held himself up and is obsessed with this toy guitar!

I'm haggard, I'm in need of some sleep. May the children remain in a deep slumber well into the morning hours!

Blessings!

"I need to fly up to the moon..."

2010-07-24T21:45:00.001-07:00

Walking away from Target toward the car, it was the mystical part of the evening. The full moon was as vibrant as the setting sun, the air was settled and the casual flow of shoppers shuffled together, creating a harmonic sound that lingered in your ear. This is when I stopped in my tracks. Kaitlyn belted out, 'Mommy, I need to fly up to the moon.'

Mind you, this is after spending an entire 40 minutes with her earlier in the day, walking Cosimo, conversing about her need to fly a plane, need to ride a horse, need to ride in a helicopter like Daddy's, need to ride a boat and her repetitive need to ride a motorcycle. Now I have a daughter who has a need to fly up to the moon. Am I surprised? In all honesty, I almost tripped over my cart, but upon finding stability in both my feet and mind, I would expect nothing less!

I responded to her with an enthusiastic 'that sounds like a great idea for a trip. I wonder what you would need to do to fly to the moon?' We then went on to discuss Astronauts and spaceships and made an agreement that when she does make her trek to the moon she will bring me back a rock.

Celebrating a Tired Spell

2010-07-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

Wish there were photos to document this chaos. Here's the scenario:

How long does it take to put Dylan to sleep:

Auntie Jessica, 4 minutes

Nana, 10 minutes

Daddy, 17 minutes

Mommy, all night

I'm the food source so Dylan has found comfort in nesting no further than a quarter inch from my bosom. Folks, this has become an issue. It used to be the ticket to get Dylan to sleep and now has become this addictive force of energy for him. I love hearing about the successes people are having with getting sweet Dylan to sleep-somehow it gives me confidence that the night will be rich with uninterrupted sleep.

No. Wishful thinking. The shop is closing. The pacifier days are over as that's what all this amounts to-I've become a walking pacifier for Dylan. Really it couldn't come at a better time as tonight when stuck on our guest bed with him nuzzling up against me, his first latch was an unintended chomp. The suction was so intense. I'm not interested in becoming an all you can eat buffet with four infant teeth freshly cut! Enough!

On a milestone note we have been enjoying Dylan's expanding vocabulary which now includes 'mamamamama' and 'nananananananana'. Both Mommy and Nana have bragging rights!

...and she took a bite

2010-06-22T21:53:00.000-07:00

Today marks a very poignant day in Kaitlyn history-or rather my history as her mother! I dropped Kaitlyn off at preschool this morning and watched her follow Ms. Lopez right into the play yard with no lingering hesitation but complete zest for the slide and children laughter found around the corner! My heart sank and my head was spinning with a collision of emotion. Am I supposed to stay? Should I leave now and not look back? Will she cry for me or forget I even walked her to the office. Knowing Kaitlyn and her ferocious independent spirit, I turned and left almost as fast as I arrived. A temporary guilt took over my being. End result: the four hour stint was met with complete curiosity. Kaitlyn had a terrific time despite her one incident...

Another student had her in a 'head lock' type of hug. Such love but for Kaitlyn it was confinement and so she looked up and bit the girl on her cheek. Sigh. Uggggh. My daughter. At this Montessori school, however, the victim gets to be consoled and taken care of by the perpetrator so shortly after the scene of the crime Kaitlyn was holding an ice pack on the girls cheek and patting her back with great affection. Ms. Mitchell, Kaitlyn's teacher, spoke very highly of the situation despite the horrific action-any mother's worst nightmare. I overheard as I was leaving, 'the new girl bit...' spoken by a student to her father. Soon enough all arms will be of hugs and teeth will be for apples, the new girl syndrome will be lost forever. I hope.

Suffice it to say, the school day was a huge success and Kaitlyn scurried off with the teacher as I stood and waited. She was off to the restroom for one final pee in the potty before her day was complete. Wow. Am I excited...which brings me to another milestone: the three Ps...

Pee + Poop in the Potty. Yes, Kaitlyn has this down now! She is minimizing her wet diapers and taking a fondness to her potty. We planted a doughnut child seat in each of the bathrooms for her use when the time calls. Thanks to Steve, he really has been the voice of potty training in our household...Kaitlyn is nearly there! Quite incredible if you ask me.

I continue to be amazed at Kaitlyn's personality and blossoming vocabulary along with her uncanny musical abilities. She has memorized the children CDs we play in our car. She sings along in the back seat as each song feeds into the next and often I find her belting out the words to the next song before it begins.

There really is an endless amount of details I could offer about Special K, but should preserve the next paragraphs for my muscle man, Dylan. He has me in smiles fairly constant except when I just need a break from his 20+ pounds! Yes, he is weighing in at a mere 8 pounds lighter than Kaitlyn at this point and with him not walking-nor crawling-yet, that means I'm the baby carrier! He continues to be a momma's boy but has begun to drink formula FINALLY! Drink rather than suck as sucking is reserved for his nursing moments. Silly boy-I swear he came into this world as a toddler on his way to bypass puberty. He drinks from a cup and has better success drinking formula this way than by sucking it from a bottle! Because of this along with his peculiarities of food, my nursing days I would like to say could be numbered and will be numbered should his new third tooth go for the gold with a nipple biting session! The joys of this precious age.

Dylan's voice is very deep, manly and when laughing, it's a hearty jolly good time! He often bursts out with laughter when he's well fed and rested. Of course this is a contagious situation you see. If out in public, I find people starring in disbelief that such a sound could come from such a young infant. Sucking on his toes and as Kaitlyn did, he tries to go for the cheeks, too! Vocabulary is booming with the most recent addition being 'DaDaDaDa'. Once again Steve wins the title for the first word contest-man!

I'd also like to confess that Dylan is part Monkey. With his birthweight being what it was, I'm not surprised he's more than all baby. He can cling onto me with his legs alone, and if only I'd let go, I'm sure he's stay suspended from my body in some form as his grip teeters on the edge of superpower material. It's not human, I'm almost certain of it!

His food choices have lead me to forget baby food and just give him whatever I'm eating. He has a monstrous appetite and continues to love pasta but can have a heyday with cottage cheese. Avocados continue to be his staple-it's a wonder he hasn't turned green yet. He sure eats enough of them, going through one almost every day!

So there you have it, my two kiddos, each one unique and together incredibly loved. I'm so blessed!

Introducing the Italian Food Hound

2010-06-05T23:54:00.000-07:00

He watches what I eat with great intrigue compelling me to plop a plate in front of him with the expectation he will know exactly how to handle the food. Couple this with his late food strike and I'm left with mixed messages. Dylan surprises me daily with his food preferences. Somedays he can't get enough zucchini and then other days he gags on it. All days he refuses bananas (what kid refuses bananas???), pears, carrots, peas, and on occasion accepts pears if mixed with lentils. Crazy. Everyday he could live off of avocado, it's by far the most exciting dish by his standards and thank goodness it has been deemed acceptable for a baby's first food. I've tried tofu, blueberries, peaches, and varying brands of oatmeal and rice cereals. He has found a preference for the Gerber oatmeal cereal over the Earth's Best brand-how a seven month old can determine the difference is beyond me. AND of course, never does he refuse a boob. This boy would be content with only breastmilk, directly from the source, for God only knows how long.

I have, however, found a glimmer of hope between yesterday and today. Dylan has successfully guzzled down 1.5 ounces of formula from a bottle over the span of two feedings...this basically translates to H O P E. Yes, there is hope that I may be able to leave him for a period of time with anyone other than me and know he won't be hungry. It's taken us a few months to get him to develop a sucking motion on the bottle-huge milestone. He still has a ways to go, but I relish in this new reality!

So, with all the strife around his feedings, Kaitlyn and I were enjoying some left over pasta for lunch and with his watchful eyes I figured I'd take the risk and toss some finely chopped Italian treat on his tray. This boy would have asked for thirds if I had more to give him. He was thrilled to play with it, eat it and play with it some more.

Here is Mr. Dylan, the Italian Food Hound:

I love the serious look of intention...and the hands, so focused on the act of exploring the slimy noodles!

The classic Dylan lip pucker-his new look. Part flirtatious, part glee, part D! His two teeth aren't for show and tell I guess! He's being modest these days.

Timeless Treasures

2010-06-05T23:36:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn and I in the doorway of a fire truck-one of the area's classic red engines. Now they are white with a blue stripe...if only the red ones would make a return. I look pregnant in this image and am not. Somehow my post belly hangout wasn't shy in front of the camera but rather ripe and ready for capture. No matter, I was hanging out with my girl and quite frankly, when moments like these occur I could be wearing a pink and chartreuse muumuu. It is irrelevant how I look. I'm just ecstatic to be in harmony with my sweet baby K as often our days are filled with one reprimand after another!

Miss Talia offering her charm to keep Dylan cool and calm while not in my arms. Talia has been visiting this entire week-such a terrific gift to have her out this way and chill with the kids!

A future car of mine...hmmm. Nana was with us and noticed the car was from 1947-she had a moment of nostalgia...she was three when this car hit the pavement!

Kaitlyn keeping balance on the back end of the Fire Truck-she was enamored by the size and the ability to get on it!

This face kills me.

And then, this one, too...who does he look like here?

Gentle Great Grandma

2010-06-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

I think she really does like Great Grandma. Toward the end of the visit she knew how to refer to 'Great' Grandma and so we began to hear her rattle off 'Gate Gamma' over and over again!

2 Years, 3 Cakes, 4 Days

2010-06-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

Working backwards, this was the Princess Cake, the 3rd 'cake' I put together in honor of sweet Kaitlyn. She's been into Princess dresses lately so my wild hairs took over and I found myself sweeping the cake decorating isles of party supply shops hunting for the skirt mold. No luck. This half dome is actually a cake pan for a soccer ball-figured it would be a decent investment as no doubt a soccer ball can be used for Dylan in the future and heck, now that I know it can be morphed into a Princess dress, a little imagination made this purchase rock solid! The doll is really only a half doll as from the waist down it is a spear, perfect for stabbing into the cake! Kaitlyn was quick to put her fingers into the skirt, one lick after another. She's really has no willpower when it comes to sweets-like her Mother!

Blowing out the candle of cake #2!

Cake #2, created on a whim for the spontaneous gathering of Mom, Dad, Uncle Garrett, Uncle Benet and all of us for Kaitlyn's birthday. A lovely evening of Mom's homemade pizza, spices and stories! Kaitlyn now sings her own Happy Birthday-truly entertaining to watch!

Did hell freeze over? I thought for a moment it possibly had when I spotted Uncle Benet with this bottle of formula and Dylan actually sipping. This little boy of mine is on a diet strike meaning he really is only interested in my breastmilk, from my breast. Needless to say, it's strained our social calendar and of course makes babysitting him more than a chore so capturing a moment of success was worthy of a celebration. However, the feelings of joy were short lived. Dylan had us all fooled. He looks like he's sipping with great vigor when in reality, he's just holding the nipple in his mouth. Two ounces were in the bottle when we gave it to him and two ounces remained. Uncle Benet spent Saturday with us and I put him to work on Dylan duty and of course, Kaitlyn duty!

Kaitlyn's Earthworm Birthday Cakes! These were basically mud pies inspired from her growing interest in bugs! Earthworms started her nature curiosity and thus, these little cups of treats were totally a hit-probably more so among the adults as they were free to make their own. I had chocolate covered ants (not for the children, mind you); M & Ms; chocolate fudge; toasted marshmallow jelly beans; triple chocolate ice-cream (excellent for the look as it was a Neapolitan style ice cream with vanilla and two shades of chocolate); gummy worms; chocolate rock candies; grass-green whipped cream; and colored marshmallows for the flowers!

Singing to the darling!

This image makes me laugh. It's an excellent side profile of her-terrific for making one of those silhouette images to frame! Then the retro orange colored balloons...if I cropped this and tinkered with the coloring of the photo, it very well cold be mistaken for a different era all together!

Kaitlyn with her new baby doll from the Krugers! She sleeps with 'Calin' every night!

Which would be best, a plum, a red bell pepper or Dylan's corn? Floor time on the 28th...Kaitlyn has become a very loving older sister to Dylan. When he is sitting on the floor, she naturally gravitates toward him and soon after has him in laughter or tears (if the latter, there may be teeth marks-yes, a behavior issue we are still working on)!

Calm before the storm.

2010-05-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

Dylan's first swing experience!

Memphis, TN...visiting with cousin Truman (Kaitlyn douses herself with the water and Truman watches with great intrigue-Special K did change his routine up quite a bit during our visit)!

Tandem bathing!

Auntie Cupcake with Chillin Dylan!

She's magical in my eyes even when she's up to no good. He melts my heart with each smile. Between the two of them, I'm often lost in another reality. My two blessings are nothing less than sunshine in my day, chocolate in my afternoon, and love in my heart. If I could write daily about the adventures of 24/7 diaper marathons, tandem bathing, duel body juggling acts, and the helicopter parenting that I seem to fall into more often than I want to admit, I would! There is more content than I wish to recognize-everything is a story worth sharing that I find my inner thoughts in conflict over how to prioritize my day...do a blog entry to document the latest happening or carry on to bed for a brief respite between brewing unnatural sleep cycles. The latter generally wins hence another entry that is way late, hugely anticipated and thus, like Swiss Cheese, missing chunks!

What feels like months ago was probably only six weeks ago; I woke up to solid poop in Dylan's diaper. MILESTONE. How has this already happened? He was just 3 months old and now I face his seventh month; the homemade baby food cubes are taking over the freezer, his birthweight has almost doubled and nursing habits are long ingrained within him that I fear my breasts will be forever harnessed in a nursing bra. While he can and will roll over, it is generally out of circumstance, a means to an end. He does not like being awake and lying on his tummy which leads me to believe he will bypass crawling and dive straight into climbing, standing and walking. Two teeth and swollen gums, his canines are proportionate to his hands and feet...all are large! He remains 'Chillin Dylan' unless the volcanic eruption begins and then it's hunt for mommy...fast. Dylan already shows signs of resilience and superior endurance. Heck I might too if I was getting daily hits to the head by books and blocks with an occasional foot. Yes, Kaitlyn expresses her love for her brother with great force and often with a repetitive edge. Needless to say Dylan continues to chill and handle her strikes with a stoic immortality.

This brings me to dear Special K. Kaitlyn has an uncanny ability to comprehend exactly what you are telling her, look right through you like she isn't listening and then after all verbal threats and reprimands, galavant off and successfully complete the request. It drives me nuts. She is a 13 year old in the body of a 2 year old...well, ok, maybe not that extreme, but she is truly already showing remarkable acts of defiance.

I'm not much of a reader and much to my husband's disdain, I'm not a pop culture hound, however, I do know that Special K has a keen sense of self and an intrinsic motivation for certain activities. My latest headline with her is PRESCHOOL. Where will she go, for how often each week, will she be the class bully or the class clown? Whatever the case, I'm really eager for this MILESTONE. She couldn't be more ready for engagement that is with someone other than her strung out, overly sensitive, hyper-hawk eyed mom...I'm sure I am making it out to be worse than it is...as, I said it before, my children are my blessings-nothing less than sunshine in my day, chocolate in my afternoon, and love in my heart!

Working Backwards

2010-04-05T23:56:00.000-07:00

My blogging frequency has dramatically tapered off ... I sit here tonight realizing how many Dylan milestones and Kaitlyn songs have yet to be documented, I figured I would work backwards and see how much I can capture relying upon this pre-alzheimer mind of mine!

Dylan brings me joy that infuses my whole body. It's something about his smile and the way he meets my eyes that triggers this youthful spirit within me. He is so mellow and while he can appear to be a day dreamer at times, the eyes, once locked with mine, ignites his sparkle (among other things...generally dimples, ears raise and his arms extend with a little bounce). I just want to animate him so I can constantly get that refreshed joy. He's going to be a wonderful little brother to his passionate sister! And, might I add, a wonderful son that will keep his mother grounded!

Some exciting reports on this little BIG boy:

He wears size 12 months in tops, and size 9 months in bottoms and he's only 5 months old!

He has a deep voice and hearty laugh-both known to project across the room when Kaitlyn is conversing with him.

He pretty much gags on cereal at this point in the game and is jazzed that he's moving into the world of sippy cups.

He is still nursing...yesterday, today and I know tomorrow. This kid has NO interest in the bottle, believe me, we are trying daily, multiple times.

He loves peas. In fact, I don't think he can get enough of them. We offered him some this evening and it was as if he had never eaten all weekend, the poor boy lunged forward with every bite not too mention his hands were attacking the bowl.

As of this morning, Dylan has his first tooth!

Now, his sister, on the other hand, had her first dental appointment a few weeks back and I'm proud to report she did a swell job holding any tears for the very end of the appointment despite the many "Mommy!' calls she gave out in search of reassurance that I was present!

She has a slight accent with the words 'Four' and 'More'...I suppose it mimics what I used to do with the word 'Dirt' (what they tell me, anyway).

Row Row Row Your Boat, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, This Old Man, ABCs...her favorite songs to sing (and she really sings them)!

She counts everything, often leaves out the number 5, likes to save it for something really special like when she walks up or down the 16 stairs we have.

Ice cream couldn't make her happier.

Make him laugh...

2010-03-15T01:20:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn loves Dylan and Dylan loves her right back. It's been a joy to witness Kaitlyn's recent tenderness toward her brother. Now that she is border-line motor mouth, I hear her saying sweet terms of endearment...

'Brother, I love you.'

'Brother, eets ok'

'Don't worry baby' (when he's crying)

It's just priceless and of course most of her sweetness is coupled with a kiss or two!

Jellies & Jewels

2010-03-15T01:16:00.001-07:00

Girls. Girls. Oh my. They are fun to shop for, dress up and adore!

Worst Cook in America

2010-03-13T23:22:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

WHAT WILL IT BE?

PORK LOIN..UGGG NO!!!! THIS CAN'T BE TRUE!

AFTER

Rutland Court will never be the same. Now living admist the fire fighter, the medical sales guy, the truck hauler, the fitness equipment owner, the Rancho Cucamonga housewives and more, lies an Iron Chef...me! Ha! That's right folks, somehow I was awarded the title of Iron Chef at our first Iron Chef competition this past Monday night.

It was an evening of flavor as Steve and I competed against each other to create three dishes: an appetizer, an entree and a dessert using a secret ingredient (revealed 15 minutes prior to our chop chop chopping)! We agreed upon five potential secret ingredients, went shopping for all five-and then some (evidenced by the mounds of food in the background of the photos). When Pork Loin was selected I wanted to faint. Disbelief was planted upon my face as I secretly refused to accept that pork would ever make it to the competition. So wrong. I faced my doom and panic set in.

I say I won because logistics were in my favor. Steve says I won as I always make incredible salads (without boring anyone with details...we both never completed all three of our meals within the two hour time frame thus my appetizer was competing against his entree-the fully plated dishes when the clock struck). Between my over peppery/pungent arugula and the under-roasted beets, tough and hidden pork loin salad and Steve's grossly overuse of garlic in his cauliflower puree, we both could have been labeled the Worst Cooks in America.

Despite the random ingredients that now line my pantry, ranging from a costco sized bag of pine nuts to a dozen avocados to a chunk of lard-our future meals will be composed out of desperation to make a dent in our overstocked shelves. We purchased all the ingredients that had potential of being used...I think I have three cartons of whipping cream in my fridge, six filet mignon's and three tubs of fresh raspberries hanging out along with 25 uncooked beets...that should paint a clear picture!

As I embrace this new week I'm strongly considering menu planning to beef up on my Iron Chef skills as the competitions will continue. We have already discussed the possibility of doing another one in June!

By the way, I had Dylan on my back the entire time. Maybe that added to my kitchen merit? No, I think the judges were overly kind...and really darn hungry.

Swinging Child

2010-03-07T01:31:00.000-08:00

Mom was visiting and while Kaitlyn and I were prancing through the grass she placed Dylan in the swing. How could I let this moment slip by without documentation! He's such a grown boy. At 4 months he is wearing size 6-9 months in pants and up to a size 12 month in shirts!

I can't believe the joy that my children possess. Dylan is most certainly his own character, however, I have begun to notice new sounds and expressions from the guy. He is often squawking these days instead of cooing. His verbal capacity is being showcased and often in competition with Kaitlyn's. Between Kaitlyn's excessively high-pitched screams and Dylan's bird-like sounds, you can't talk over them expecting to be heard. They are downright loud.

When he catches my eyes his legs begin to kick, his eyes twinkle and his dimples go CRAZY! Otherwise, when he can't see or hear me, he pretty much gnaws on toys and chills (assuming he is hanging out in the same room as myself and not in anyone else's arms). I've also noticed his physique changing. Breast milk is at it again...his thighs are forming those Pillsbury Dough Boy rolls and his arms are thickening up. Any day I anticipate him rolling over as well as sitting up on his own. He is a momma's boy right now and while it can be exhausting at times, there will come a day when he won't want anything to do with me.

I have a feeling that he won't be too different from Kaitlyn when it comes to how jolly he can become. While Kaitlyn has been expressive every given minute of any given day, Dylan is expressive for at least 70% of his awake hours or 100% of the time when he's in my arms!

Nana's Birthday at Harold's and Belle in LA

2010-03-01T22:24:00.000-08:00

The cousins pre-cat fight! They are just darling together. Hugs and kisses, then holding hands. It's real love and like all real love, the fighting began about an hour into their hanging out!

Natalia sporting some haunting eyes...Kaitlyn had just risen from her slumber.

Alexis and sweet Natalia.

Yeah, S@$t, I mean Spit Happens.

He just woke up from a long slumber...

Dylan chillin with Uncle Stan...a rare moment as he

NEVER seems to like chillin with Daddy!

Yummy. Two days in a row, blown diet.

Sweet potato pie, I think it was worth it!

Nana in all her birthday glory!

Hanging with both grandkids...They just love their Nana!

Cousin Todd, Uncle Stan and hunk of a boy, Dylan. (Dylan began the lip quiver shortly after followed by an outburst of tears..mommy to the rescue!)

Two Faces, Two Hearts, Two of a Kind

2010-02-26T21:01:00.000-08:00

It's better to paint with two paintbrushes. You can cover more area!

'I love to play with my brother. Sometimes I just like to see if I can make him laugh.'

Chillin Dylan in his Pack n Play-sporting a terrific tie onesie. What a man.

'What is my sister doing?' (she is in the Pack n Play with Dylan causing all sorts of ruckus)!

These two children couldn't be more uplifting and down right demanding all within one minute. Dylan has become excessively attached to me, so much so, that my dear husband seems to slumber solo during the second half of any given night as of late. Once Dylan wakes up for a nursing session in the middle of the night, that's it. The love affair with mom begins. Every hour to every two hours he seems to waken and unfortunately for me, he finds me right where he last saw me-slumped in the rocker, fast asleep, from the previous nursing session. The cycle continues through to daybreak. The dreams I've been having during these erratic sleepless nights would sure make someone think I'm on acid. Let's just say, Avatar meets Abby's Flying Fairy School and together they meet my family (both my side and Steve's) on a remote island with a metropolitan center. Yeah, it's out there!

My dreams of having a creative space for the children continue to be a dream. However, I do carve out a space here and there to allow for some exploration of the arts. While it's by no means the full craft zone I envision, what little I have done brings great satisfaction. Kaitlyn gets all into painting, from picking out the colors to obviously holding the brushes. She can't hold just one and I don't blame her. It's so much more fun to use both hands!

There is a developing interest between Kaitlyn and Dylan or is it between Dylan and Kaitlyn? Either way, it's shared. I find her sneaking up on him, laying down next to him, holding onto him, just loving him. It's precious, at least the first few minutes of it as then her curiosity gets ahold of her and watch out Dylan. Eyes get tampered with, fingers are shoved into his mouth and the poor guy just starts sucking. He doesn't know any better. Her hands push onto his chest as she'll try to stand up and then oh no...she'll stand on his leg or stumble and fall on top of him. Yeah, it's a full time job watching the two of them interact.

I try to not discipline too much as most of her prodding is harmless and who wants a mom always barking some type of direction. It's endearing to watch and while it can raise the heart rate a few times, it's by no means a war zone. Dylan just chills, laughing when he feels like it. As of late I have spotted him grabbing her shirt when he wants to sport some attention...she can get annoyed. She will try to pull his fist off of her clothing, but isn't too successful. His grasp could put him on the charts for an NFL draft! It's pretty funny to watch-ususally I have to intervene!

New phases of joy...

2010-02-21T06:42:00.001-08:00

Kaitlyn in her Raiders cheer outfit...such a Daddy's girl.

Suckers. A new type of treat for that special moment.

This morning's hello.

How does this happen. One day a child has no concept of possession and overnight 'Mine' is the new word along with hoarding motions. Yes, this is how it unfolded at the Patterson household. Kaitlyn has recently started declaring that things are hers by pulling the item away from you and pretty much shouting, 'MINE!'. The other recent behavior that I must admit is quite cute is the concept of 'Bye'. Kaitlyn will go into the bathroom to brush her teeth and when nearing the sink she stops in her tracks, looks at me, puts her hand up with a Miss America wave and states, 'Bye'. Almost like 'get the heck out of the bathroom mom, I'm brushing my teeth'. This isn't isolated to the bathroom, it happens multiple times in the day and at any given moment. She is fiercely independent and whenever she feels the need to be alone to play, eat, brush her teeth, poop, watch a show....'Bye' comes out of her mouth with that darling wave and a mischievous grin. Oh there is never a dull moment around here.

Dylan has tapered his blowouts down to a minimum and seems to take a fondness to the bathing. I can't keep his nails short enough so often his forehead gets pricked and the poor guy looks like he had an altercation with a cactus. His grin continues to ignite an internal joy and yes, having a second child brings you to a new capacity to love. No matter how inconceivable, with a second child your heart does expand. I had those all too common feelings of doubt, 'how could I ever love another child as much as I love my daughter?' It's an incredible mystery, but I'm living proof that you can love two children. Each child pulls a unique love out of you-love you never fathomed existed.

A few other highlights to note:

Dylan doesn't take his eyes off your food when eating. He's already got a huge appetite, makes me concerned for future grocery bills.

Kaitlyn has developed a love for reading and often storytime is no longer me reading to her but her reading to me.

Kaitlyn's cell phone bill could be shocking if we don't get the right plan. This girl is found regularly talking on her hand phone (hand up to the ear as if a phone) to all her city and country friends. She pauses as if listening to what they are saying back to her, she makes hand gestures and even says things like, 'Yeah', 'Oh', 'Hello'...My little ham!

Dylan sings to us in the morning. Every morning.

His torso is extremely long, his feet and hands are huge and his overall build is rock solid. He doesn't enjoy anyone other than me as of late. Even Grandma and Nana have found his outbursts of tears quite unconsolable. Mommy to the rescue-and you can imagine how that makes Kaitlyn feel...

Jealous. Kaitlyn is often jealous and it comes out in her behavior. Whether a repetitive high pitched scream or a shouted 'NO', she lets you know that she is not cool with what's going down. Did I mention repetitive?

I've been losing hair, so much that I recently read an article saying if I was to count my hair loss daily for seven days, then take the average, if it was over 100 lost strands I could have a problem. Well, I will tell you what, I must have a problem. First there is no way I could count the strands. I find them inside Dylan's mouth, coming out of Kaitlyn's hair, on burp cloths and bed sheets, in the children's bath and everywhere in between. I'm waiting for the moment when I'll find them in something I've baked for Steve's ER. I'm sure that will be a fun discovery!

Until next post-realizing it may be for some time...be well.

Reports on Dylan

2010-01-23T22:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight he let out enough spit to fill a cup except a cup wasn't near. Nope, only me, down the chest into the bra between the boobs. Nice Dylan. Nice.

His hair is balding pretty badly-nice chunks are missing from the back and both sides.

During belly time his legs go crazy like he is scaling a wall, only he is horizontal and not getting anywhere. Maybe he will be an early crawler.

This child can eat. I feel that I'm still on an every hour type of feeding schedule when he is awake. Which is ok since he is stocking up for his long slumbers. He can sleep for a solid seven hours or more at night! Can someone say 'AWESOME'.

We are emptying his closet to make room for the 6 months or larger attire. I'm not going to get too comfortable with this size as some brands he could use 6-9 months for sure!

He has a Heames butt and not a Patterson one! ha ha ha....

Father Daughter

2010-01-23T22:35:00.000-08:00

Kaitlyn looks like a mini girl version of Steve.

Umbrella madness

2010-01-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

If you give a child an umbrella, she will want to be out in the rain. When you take the umbrella away, an episode of screaming and floor kicking will occur. Yes, this was Kaitlyn's reaction. Let's just say the umbrella has found a permanent home in the back end of my car where she cannot find it...at least for another year! It's too heavy for her little hands and with her fierce independent streak, it becomes a ticket for frustration.

The sleep drama has come to an end. I crashed the other night after bartering with Kaitlyn to slumber for over 3 and 1/2 hours. Fortunately she did eventually end up falling asleep in her toddler bed, but it was 12:30am. By naptime the next day I had Steve put her crib back and right to sleep she went. This week has really been a bad dream. I don't recommend reacting the way I did for anyone who encounters their child for the first time straddling crib railing. It's not like she is going to get really hurt if she did fall. We have a great carpet and she is quite the adventurous gal. Once she does climb out, falling or not, she'll be ready to do it again and again (assuming we aren't there to intervene and correct the behavior). At that point, when it becomes repetitive, we will bring out the toddler bed and handle it all differently! I'm truly grateful she is back to her old self. I forget how little she really is...only 20 months. Going from a crib to a toddler bed or any different sleep environment can prove to be too much change. Add a younger sibling to the mix and you are really signing up for DRAMA.

Floor or Bed? Which will win?

2010-01-20T14:15:00.000-08:00

She was crying, screaming, screeching and hollering 'Mommy'. It wasn't an unfamiliar gig, one that is indicative of a poopy diaper. We had placed Kaitlyn down for quiet time in hopes that she would actually get some shut eye. Typically she plays in her crib for a good hour before the silence of sleep follows. It's a blessed time of day. Occasionally she lets out this cry-scream after playing for sometime which translates into an obvious call for a diaper change as the stench becomes quite alarming. So, yesterday, when I heard the crying, screaming, screeching and hollering 'Mommy', I figured it was for the same drill. I was comfortable with the idea that I'd eventually get up to change her diaper, but by no means was I in a rush...afterall, this quiet time is really my only respite in my day to regroup and quite possibly nap myself. Dylan was in my arms as we approached her room. No diaper smell. I opened the door...

Miss Kaitlyn Marie was stuck straddling her crib railing. As if riding a horse she was arched forward holding on for the ride of her life. She was not scared only stuck. Once I got her she was headed for the door. My tomboy in the works is a real dare devil.

I wasted no time. Last night we converted her crib to a transition bed, the kind that still utilizes the crib mattress. She eventually slept after she explored everything on her dresser. When Steve went in the room to soothe her-as she was clearly distraught-he found the carpet and her covered in baby powder and the hand sanitizer in her hand. Surely if we waited any longer the hand sanitizer would be found as paint upon the wall and quite possibly her dessert.

Naptime today was a new story. When the silence hit I checked on her and found her smack center of her room, fast asleep ontop of a few books and half of a blanket. I picked her up and placed her in her bed hoping that when she does wake up, she feels its comfort. Night two and it's 9:42pm. Kaitlyn was tucked into bed around 9pm and for the past 40 minutes has been haggling me at the gate of her doorway. 'Mommy, I love you,' she hollers out. She distracts herself with books and toys and then hollers out again. When I come to the doorway, she goes right to her bed and crawls in. Not the last time; she went right to her bed but slowly started walking back toward me in her classic mischevious fashion, staring at me every step. I asked her if she was going to sleep on the floor. This stinker promptly buckled her knees and fell to the floor, lying on it as if she was asleep. She is a true comedian.

At this point I have walked away. She's not crying. That's the good sign. My hope is that she will wear herself out and by 10pm the true silence will hit. Only curiosity, will she be in her bed or on the floor?

This and that..

2010-01-20T13:06:00.000-08:00

Dylan on a stroll.

Storytime with Great Grandma.

'I want to be just like Chillin Dylan.'

Evidence of first hair cut.

Being a girl...

Blow Outs & Sleep

2010-01-16T23:44:00.000-08:00

It's working out! The two are happily sleeping under the same fan. Dylan had his first all night slumber-a dream for any mom! He was out by 10pm and didn't wake up until 7:30 this morning. Kaitlyn is snoozing through all his sounds and cries-a real trooper!

BLOW-OUT update:

By far today was the most dramatic of all blow-out diapers Dylan has pleasantly brought me. We were at a girlfriends having a playdate and I was on the floor holding Dylan when I heard him make his typical #2 sounds. Nice and juicy like usual. Then a warm sensation was felt on my legs...yes, his slimy goop of yellow-green poop had exploded from the diaper, went down his leg, over his socks and not only all over my pants but to the floor! Needless to say I spent the rest of the playdate hanging out in a towel while my pants cycled through the drier. What the heck boy...

Holding my breath...

2010-01-12T22:19:00.001-08:00

It was an opportunity I had to jump on and so it is with great anxiety I write to document that tonight Dylan moved into Kaitlyn's room. The two are now officially roommates. Dylan was nursing while Kaitlyn and I were talking and reading some books on the floor. He passed out-the kind where his whole body goes limp and other than a few lip smacks, nothing is alive. I still had some laundry to put away in the kids dresser and a book to finish with Kaitlyn, so I gently placed Dylan in his new crib-a gorgeous one, I might add. When I was all finished with my to do list I picked Kaitlyn up and explained that her brother was sleeping in his new crib. With great excitement, legs kicking and all...she gave me a huge smile and brought her finger to her lips and said, 'shhhh'. I figured at that moment that he was going to stay right there and all I needed to do was rearrange the shelf above the crib and set up the camera. Mission accomplished. Kaitlyn went down without a peep and if I can predict the night, my hope is that Dylan will make enough noise for me to get him when he wakes up, but not enough to wake up Kaitlyn. Otherwise I'm signing up for a horrifically LONG night! Thank God Steve is off tomorrow!

On a side note:

-Kaitlyn was reading one of her books tonight and as if trying to identify numbers she was reading (which was not the case as there were no numbers, only the word 'yellow', but all the motions were there....even the finger pointing to the image) she said out loud, 'eight, nine,.....(long pause), ten'. She trips me out.

-An emerging Kaitlyn trend is singing. Let me clarify, she has always sang but in the past month or so she has started singing songs you know. The ABC's were the first and now she is onto singing songs from two albums I play in my car for her (constantly). One is an African lullaby CD and she repeats the sounds and words that she can make out. The other CD is Laurie Berkner band (highly recommend). When I attempt to sing along she yells out, 'No' with a huge grin. This little stinker doesn't want to hear me sing. I don't blame her as I'm not all that...when I get quiet I can hear her whispering the song. It's truly amazing.

-Dylan continues to surprise me with slimy blow-out diapers, the worst being down the leg, up the back and even blown out through the top of the front of the diaper. Love these. Socks get goopy green stuff on it along with everything else. It seems like I just look at the poop and the slimy stuff shows up on me. What can I say. He is a ham, too-just like Kaitlyn. I am seeing a budding gregarious character taking place in Dylan. He may be chillin Dylan, but not for much longer. I imagine he will run the show in no time. He lights up with an enormous smile which instantly melts me and spent this morning in quiet a conversation. He was running at the mouth not letting me get a word in!

Life in the New Year

2010-01-09T22:40:00.000-08:00

Despite the longing for more art in my life, the hunger for more personal time, and the ravenous desire to look like I did when I first met Steve....this New Year is starting off with great gusto! My children keep my days blurred and often filled with maze-like jaunts throughout the home. What happened yesterday stays in yesterday and what happens today stays in today, aka: my memory is very short term! After bringing in the New Year with silly string, wine and fondue, and a brief travel to Arizona, which was filled with day trips and sleepless nights, I embrace what may come my way as each month unfolds. My hopes for this New Year are:

Kaitlyn learns the difference between an inside voice and an outside voice; that she gets potty trained with ease; the transition from 'my' bedroom to 'our' bedroom (Dylan is due to move in this coming week) goes smoothly and that she continues to wear her hats and tutu and finds an enjoyable yet thorough way to brush her teeth!

Dylan doubles his birth weight not at six months of age (as anticipated) but rather anytime after that; his hair falls out like Kaitlyn's did giving us a couple of months to take photos of him with a mullet or mohawk (whichever path the hair loss reveals); that he can enjoy being in Daddy's arms for more than 15 minutes so I can get a longer break; and that his bunking with Kaitlyn doesn't create some havoc in his sleep cycle!

Steve loses his Biggest Loser competition with me but still loses a chunk of the weight he wishes to cast away; his work schedule becomes predictable; he masters the Ben Harper song he keeps practicing and he works through his aroma issue resulting in his ability to still kiss me if I have mint-scented lips or coffee breath.

Me...I successfully dive into my art room and never come out of the creative zone; organize my office files and actually use them; win the Biggest Loser competition between Steve and I; run a 10K and find time for more faith development, child play and journal writing.

We shall see, we shall see what unfolds.

Happy New Year!

Arizona Days (& Nights)

2010-01-08T21:54:00.000-08:00

Cousin Colin holding Chillin Dylan with Meg.

Making music with cousin Colin...

Temporary respite before shaking the bell ringers for another song!

Checking out the life beyond the wall of the tennis courts.

Cousin Colin, deep thoughts.

Trying on Mommy's H U G E shoe.

Getting a ride from Colin at the Phoenix Children's Museum.

Sand. Kaitlyn's favorite new texture, especially enjoyed when worn in the hair.

Checking out the sink in the playroom-notice the marble top?

This museum was no joke!

Hey! This place is cool.

Can you get any closer? I'm ready to eat.

JD (8 months) and Kaitlyn watching Yo Gabba Gabba.

Smiles everyone!

JD, Kaitlyn & Reigan.

Dylan's Baptism

2010-01-08T21:36:00.000-08:00

Dylan was baptized on Sunday the 27th! It was a lovely and intimate celebration at my parents church in Moreno Valley. Fruncle Denis (both, Uncle and Priest) did the sacrament with cousin Chiara and brother Benet present as Dylan's Godparents. As I reflect on this special day I realize I have so much to learn about the gift of baptism. My hope is that as my children continue to grow they can also grow and discover with me what it truly means to be baptized and be a person of faith.

Kaitlyn's First Haircut

2010-01-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

I'm fully aware that I could have done this haircut thing on my own but how could we pass up the experience. This place was outfitted with all the accessories to make any child want a trim. With great resistance from Steve, I took Kaitlyn for some split-end removal! She was so serious.

Happy New Year! 2010!!!

2010-01-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

Could this be more fun? Silly String. Horns. New Year Hats. Tiaras. Toddlers were ruling the roost, screaming in pure glee. It was a party for them. My girlfriend opened her home for a few friends to gather, friends with children, mind you. It was to be a casual gathering with a menu of: pizza, wine, beer, and chocolate fondue. The plan was to bring in the New Year at 9pm for the toddlers before carting their exhausted bodies off to bed! It was a beautiful idea. Kaitlyn was in Heaven-she was all over the place as this home is super kid-friendly. The front living room is the playroom, buckets of toys, blocks and books lined the walls. Toddler sized kitchenettes, chairs and high chairs clustered by the window...the walls were dotted with the children's artwork and learning worksheets (mom used to be a teacher). It's always fun going over to Christina's...but this night was more than fun! When the ticker hit the 9pm midnight, silly string went blasting, horns were honking and screams were screeching!

Then there was Dylan. Remarkable little fellow. He slept the entire time...

Happy New Year everyone. May this year find you rich with happiness!

Christmas Faces

2009-12-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

Hanging with Grandma, 26th of December.

Christmas Day at Natalia's (cousin's play area).

In a TuTu

2009-12-30T14:13:00.000-08:00

Wearing a tutu has become a regular part of Kaitlyn's attire.

Kaitlyn wearing a pair of Nana's reading glasses while chewing on a snack.

Happiness Abound

2009-12-30T14:04:00.000-08:00

He's all smiles when he is awake...Dylan is a joyful baby and I believe at the rate he is blossoming, he will be as joyful as Kaitlyn, but with a calmer and more cautious presence. I've been blessed with this one as he sleeps well, eats well, poops well, and even looks well! At two months he holds his head up with great strength, he loves to stand up and will lie in bed counting the specs in the air until he either falls asleep or gets a touch restless. If the latter the grunts start up and his bodily sounds fill the room-nothing outrageous, but enough to wake you from a deep sleep. He's chill...

This photo was taken by a friend of mine from a moms group I'm a part of and I must say I am fooling the camera tremendously. I actually look fit and trim (well, that's arguable, I know) when in reality I still weigh the hefty 190 mark and have an overstretched belly that gives me an award winning muffin top! All in due time as right now I've got smiles to enjoy and cooing sounds to entertain!

Pee Pee in the Potty

2009-12-16T21:18:00.001-08:00

It was quite the moment. After Kaitlyn's bath she hung out in the bathroom in her birthday suit while I bathed Dylan. She occupied herself with books and bath toys all the while talking and talking. I took Dylan to Kaitlyn's room (the next door over) and as I was dressing him I got this feeling that I should check on her. When I did, I found her sitting on her potty-a usual siting these days not to pee but to sit and read (yes, I do realize she will be one who grows up to use the restroom for not only the call of duty but also to read and seek respite). I went back to tend to Dylan when shortly after I heard a sound. That type of sound that makes you rush. When I got to the bathroom door she was shaking her potty upside down and on the floor was a puddle from what she spilled out. My girl went pee-pee...pee-pee in her potty!

We did a pee-pee dance, swapped a few high fives and said 'Awesome' a number of times! Folks this maybe a one hit wonder...or a start of a new chapter! I suppose potty training should officially start tomorrow!!!

Post Bathtime Charm

2009-12-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

Life has never been so busy. Two children under the age of two should sum it up. Actually, for those of you who are not yet a parent, and quite frankly, for those of you who have one child...it may be hard to relate. Allow me to explain:

Alarm clocks are overrated when you have a six week old who wakes you up every two to three hours to nurse. It just so happens when he finishes his last feeding of a night series, daylight has filtered into the room and as un-welcomed as an alarm, I get a jarring 'Mommy' from Kaitlyn's room. The day has officially began. Can I pee before I get her? What about getting dressed? If I don't do it now then I won't see my closet until mid-day. Oh well, 'Mommy' is even louder this time around and so off I go to get my little sunshine.

While I like to think mornings have become my favorite time of day with my children, it is truly the hardest part. Fortunately, despite any lack of sleep, within thirty minutes of Kaitlyn's 'Mommy', I'm fairly awake and consumed with comforting, cooking, feeding, talking, explaining, ... diaper changing, dressing, cleaning, playing, disciplining... the list truly goes on. Let's not forget the baby-he usually gets up and mind you he is upstairs while Kaitlyn and I are downstairs. If our staircase could talk it would request a massage. HTA (High Traffic Area) for me and the kids. Up and Down. Up and Down. One would think I could plan my day better to avoid the Up and Down, but the fact of the matter is that with two children, you can only plan so much. 16 steps. I know each one intimately.

Did I mention that Steve is sleeping during all this? Add that to the mix and it adds a slight level of strain as I try to keep everyone quiet-it doesn't work. Kaitlyn is ready for voice lessons as she warms up in the morning. You can find her often screaming a song or two. I haven't figured out the lyrics yet, but her range is quite elaborate. She also likes to whine and cry in the morning if the baby is awake with her. It's a jealous thing, but it's no quiet songbird. She is a broken record some mornings. I'm exhausted just writing this out.

Breathe.

By lunch I have reclaimed energy as I know quiet time/nap time is just around the corner for Kaitlyn and that means I will hopefully have some personal time-all dependent upon Dylan's decision to head for a nap, too. At a minimum, it will be one child to care for over two. Naptime comes and goes for me. On a rare occassion I slip into bed for a power slumber (with the exception of today...a blissful two hour nap beckoned me and I indulged) but generally naptime if both children are down means time for me to catch up on emails, surf the net for Christmas gifts, work on the MOMS Club newsletter and design birth announcements, baptism invites, holiday cards...do something creative. Then it's over, all too soon.

Second part of the day arrives and it's busy...but easier than the morning. It's pretty much focused on dinner, preparing it, eating it, cleaning it up. Then onward up the stairs for bathtime, storytime, clean-up and bed-time. Bathtime has come to be a cherished time for me as I place Dylan on a blanket and as he counts the bathroom lights Kaitlyn gets all washed up. Both are typically in their best form. It's lovely. It's not hectic. It's totally manageable.

Post bathtime, however, is another story. Kaitlyn is my bulldozer and that is her MO when she gets out of the bath. Naked butt and all she runs wild in her room. First taking her books off the shelves, tossing each one into the air like they don't matter anymore. Then it's a race to hide from me to avoid putting on a diaper and lotion. Sometimes a good bite occurs as I try to grab her and that just puts her into a timeout which results in the horrific screaming cry since she feels it's the end of the world. After a good timeout she's an angel child, obediently gets dressed and reads her books like nothing ever happened. Dylan hangs out through it all, patiently awaiting his next nursing session.

Once Kaitlyn is down then it's at least an hour holding Dylan before he is down for a good few hours. This is when I should crash. BUT, I don't. I embrace this time of the night as the only time for me. Well, it's not really for me until I finish up the dishes, tidy up the family room and keep some laundry going. When that is over, if I'm still standing, then I find some respite in my office before hitting the sack to only be awakened moments later by Dylan's grunts letting me know the cycle of night feedings, once again, has just begun.

Super Nanny Please

2009-12-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

Photo taken at the Hodgkinson's home-Kaitlyn was dancing to the music while wearing these 3D glasses that were for viewing their Christmas tree! It was a sight to see...little miss spunky!

Where is Jo from Super Nanny? Can she come for a private session? Today Kaitlyn has bit me more times than I can count on one hand. She has tested my limits that I'm at the mercy of any advice. What I'm praying for now is a R E A L serious face. I believe she senses my nerves and strong desire to crack up when I'm scolding her. Knowing too well that if I crack a smile she will take a mile and unfortunately my emotions are worn upon my sleeve. I haven't cracked yet, but I've made a semi-smile frown and forced tears to compensate for my overwhelming desire to burst into a manic laugh! I think you would, too, if you were facing her mischievous temperament that is ever so present behind those big brown eyes.

Time out is catching on, but I'm beginning to think she likes the idea of time out, so much so, that she doesn't think twice about:

-climbing up onto the coffee table...

-dangling one leg over the side of the couch while staring right at you with her tongue peeping out the side of her mouth...ignoring my 'Kaitlyn, sit on your bottom please'...

-opening the techno cabinet (place where all our digital devices live) and ignoring any 'Kaitlyn close it shut, please'...

-biting my leg, pinching my arm, hitting my face....one thing to the next in that order.

Will this end? It's a total game and I'm totally losing.

Wolftank

2009-12-03T00:06:00.000-08:00

He is hairy. Hairy from head-to bottom-to toe, hence 'Wolf', and his 'Tank' is never full! Wolftank has a torso that exceeds a typical three month onesie allowance and hands that could grip a grapefruit. This child is big. He arrived big and has only grown bigger. What's to come? Will he be like his distant cousin and sport 18 month clothing by eight months? How about this hairy situation...I look forward to the hair loss to see if he does lose the trail that travels up the spine of his back and the extra coat wrapped around his ears. Shed, baby, shed! No matter, he is the world's most adorable boy. His grunts are being replaced with cooing sounds and his luxury stay in the family heirloom bassinet may come to a sudden end as conditions are projecting a crammed holiday season if he continues to sprout at such a rapid rate.

One week to the next his facial expressions change as well as his strength. Just today I noticed how long his eyelashes have become. Ladies, don't even think about it! Dylan is going to be a priest...really, his romantic future will be as heart pounding, anxiety driven for me as Kaitlyn's future will be with the guys. My palms are sweating now just thinking about it!

Almost Three Weeks

2009-11-17T12:44:00.000-08:00

He's big. He's expressive. He's got EYES that compete with Kaitlyn's! His temperament is cool, calm and curious-unless he's tired, that's when he cries and gets all stiff. When he's hungry, watch out if you are holding him, he's been known to suck cheeks, blankets, shoulders and comes pretty close to sucking your hair or ear...best thing to do is pass him my way as he doesn't like a pacifier nor a finger. He wants the boob. Blue, Yellow, Green and heck, even pink look great on him. Most of his blankets are hand-me downs from Kaitlyn so the pink is generally found in his swaddle!

Some other interesting facts about Dylan:

-He grunts and sometimes lets out a note or two when sleeping. Another musical child in the works, I think.

-He poops after every nursing session-clockwork!

-Dylan loves to be in the arms of anyone (assuming his tank is full and his diaper is clear).

-His eyes go cross-eyed OFTEN, it's pretty funny especially when he puckers his lips together and makes an 'ooooooo' sound.

-He has this magic time in the middle of the night that he likes to call 'DAY' resulting in a 2.5 hour play-date with mommy generally starting around 2:30am. Yes, this is tough.

-If you are lucky to witness an occasional smile, you will be lucky if you don't melt away. He's a total hunk when his dimples are showing...

Reflections on Gray

2009-11-16T22:16:00.000-08:00

I stare into the mirror and realize it's not the mirror, it's me. I'm aging. Fast.

When you are pregnant so much talk is generated around the question, 'do I get my hair colored or wait until after the pregnancy?' I caved in after the first trimester and did my typical, safe, no-drama, all over hair coloring and felt like a million dollars. Now that I'm post-partum and have been fantasizing for months about my makeover in body, fashion and hair I realize the hair makeover needs to happen now! If I were to chop all my hair off and go pixie, like I did for years back in college, I'd be more salt than pepper. I'm only 32....sad to say, it's genetic. Should the makeover be drastic and be natural? Ha! That may make me feel like I owe someone a million bucks!

I'll cope with the gray by covering it up with some copper and chocolate! I need to feel like a million bucks these days as lately I've been having numerous moments of feeling like a parental FAILURE! It's no post-partum depression folks, it's called being a mother of more than one child and dealing with the adjustment. It's tough, it's rough, it's exhausting, it's tasking, it's emotionally draining....and all the while, some miraculous force provides you with energy that gets you to tackle the escalating situations, one after another.

I'm praying more, I'll tell you that. Praying for strength to hold my cool, praying for diligence so I don't become a push over or overlook what needs to be seen, praying for joy so I can relish in the small moments rather than fester over the big ones...praying for my husband, praying for my support crew...praying for my children. Praying that I stop getting more gray hairs and that my tummy will continually shrink-but at an exponentially faster rate!

All in all, I wouldn't trade the stretch marks and saggy belly, my current fashion size of 14 plus, the gray hairs, or even the chalk on the walls, the blow-out diapers or barf on my shirt for ANYTHING ELSE. Two children (two babies, really) change your heart then change your reality...but thank God they change your heart first-your heart gives you the strength to manage the every-hour-on-the-hour breastfeeding sessions...your heart gives you the strength to put both feet on the floor each day...your heart gives you the strength to deal with spousal tension...your heart gives you the strength to have patience first, then compassion, followed with action.

I suppose since I can't blame my mirror for my reality of aging, my heart gives me grace to accept the things I cannot change.

Siblings

2009-11-08T23:31:00.000-08:00

What I have learned....

Big Sisters can be Big Helpers if you include them on the task at hand.

Little Dylan likes to chill, spit up and grunt.

It looks flat ironed but Dylan's hair turns extra curly, temporarily, after a good wash.

I'm exhausted. The exhaustion I feel now is like no other.

It is ok to eat left overs for lunch and dinner and possibly lunch again when you have two children.

I'll never know why a baby's poop is like a jar of grainy dijon mustard.

Going up and down the stairs is fun with Kaitlyn if you count them out loud.

Sitting on the floor instead of the sofa keeps Kaitlyn more engaged with me and less engaged with mischief!

I love my children's arms around me, Kaitlyn's tender kisses and the unconditional love I feel toward them-it's grown drastically in the past week!

The Dancing Chicken

2009-11-05T18:09:00.000-08:00

Our Home...

Introducing the Dancing Chicken!

...and away she dances...

Off we go to trick or treat!

Natalia (dressed as a fairy Princess, one of Tinkerbell's friends) with the Dancing Chicken and Grandpa!

We've had this costume for sometime and whenever we would pull it out Kaitlyn would light up and as if begging, require us to press the music button on the wing on the chicken so she could dance around. That's right, this costume played music-the chicken dance song!!!

Kaitlyn meets Dylan

2009-11-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

'Nose.'

She was really precious...at first, especially at the hospital. At home it was the same feeling but then it became a tough encounter. She didn't know better, but after the few moments of tenderness she started her typical Kaitlyn bulldozing behavior. Her arms were everywhere, touching, grabbing, poking. It was a lot of 'No..', 'be gentle', etc...despite it all, she has grown to know there is someone else sharing her attention. Not something she's always ready to embrace, but each day more of her curiosity is entertained. She just found an area of the pack and play that she can look through and actually see the baby. She often peers through this mesh side when he makes some noise.

'Yes, he has eyes!'

October 28th, 12:27pm

2009-11-03T21:33:00.000-08:00

Daddy Time

Check out those lips, cheeks and nose!

Chillin after all the probing...

Getting probed, temperature was being taken.

Look at those hands-they will do many great things in this lifetime!

He has arrived!

Dylan Carmichael Patterson

How to describe this birth story without smiling would be near impossible. Kaitlyn really paved the way for Dylan's entry into this world. Basically I was induced, and saying that translates to a 'waiting game'. I received a drug that would thin my cervix, as I just wasn't showing signs of going into labor - or perhaps, Dylan really didn't want to come out. I received two doses of the drug, each dose is a 12 hour process...on the second dose, about 2/3 into it, the drug was removed (it sits adjacent to the cervix) and Pitocin was started. Knowing full well that Pitocin brings about contractions, I requested an epidural at 3cm dilation. By 8am on the 28th I was working with both Pitocin and the epidural. The doctor came in at some point in the morning to rupture my bag of water and shortly after I fell sound asleep. I was awakened by the nurse, a few hours later, for an exam only find that I had dilated to 9.5 cm all while sleeping! Oh my, I began to cry thinking how surreal this all felt. With only 23 minutes of pushing and sleep during all the contractions...Dylan came into this world with ease! What a blessing.

His stats are:

20.5 inches

10lbs 5 oz

His head was 14.5 inches

Now he is happily breastfeeding, makes all sorts of grunting sounds when he's awake and generally only cries when he's hungry. Not bad...I'm hoping this continues!

Last Hours

2009-10-26T20:09:00.001-07:00

Dear Sarphen, soon to be Dylan, Trent or Drew....

I am anxiously awaiting your arrival. Tomorrow, bright and early, like 5:30am, the doctor is going to induce me so you can wiggle your way out sooner than you probably anticipated. It's a brilliant plan as you have really begun to weigh me down. Today I sure felt you digging for gold and who knows what else as I have felt like a train crashed into my pelvis region at various points during the afternoon! You know if you are named Dylan, which means 'of the Sea', you sure have the power of the ocean behind you in all that you do (in utero and of course upon entering into this lovely world).

If you are to be named Trent, it's such a strong masculine name that means 'gushing waters'...yet another water related name. One day we will visit the River Trent in England in honor of your name! Your Daddy will probably want to see some NFL team play that has a player named Trent as he was often inspired by the athletes of todays time for your potential name!

Now, if Drew seems more fitting, 'wise' is the meaning and I already know that wise you will be. I plan on learning a great deal from you...from how you will view the world to how you will create your path in this life.

Well, the last hours approach before I arrive to receive whatever medicine they give to stimulate the process of your arrival. During these last hours I am savoring the moments of being a mommy to one precious girl, your big sister, while dancing with excitement for the new grace that you will bring into our lives!

I love you,

Mommy