Monday, August 20, 2007
Friday, August 10, 2007
How's Theo? Theo's 4!
Well, it was a whoooole lotta celebrating last weekend. We had the bug's 4th birthday party on Saturday, which was a great success. The party was in a local Sunnyside playground. It was in the 90s but most of us stayed cool with occasional trips to the sprinklers, which gave off a good mist without soaking you unless you want to be soaked.
Theo was excited when he realized it was his party, which didn't happen until he saw the cake was for him. He's so used to it being someone else's birthday. He finally announced with a big smile, "It's Theo birday!"
Theo wasn't too thrilled with the concept of being given presents that he couldn't play with right then and there. But after a few gifts he got the point, and by the end, he said, "I want more presents."
A whole truckload of kids from the playground came over to help Theo bust open his Batman pinata.
Click here to see pictures and videos from the weekend. (User name is eorecchio@gmail.com, password is seemypics).
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Another Movie Date
Every day when I pick up Theo he says he wants ice cream from the ice cream truck. Usually I say something like, first dinner, then ice cream. Or first store, then home. He's really starting to get the idea of this sequencing.
Yesterday I told him that we were first going to get pizza, then go to the movies. He was very excited by this, and repeated as we walked hand in hand, "first pizza, n mooo-vie!" Then we passed by the ice cream truck, and he changed up the plan. "Mommy, first ice cream, n pizza, n movie!" How could I not give in to that?
He ran up to the ice cream lady in the truck, pointed to a picture of the vanilla cone, and said, "I want nilla peese!" She, charmed, gave him his order, and he said "thank you!" People get the biggest smiles on their faces when they hear my little guy's good manners. Makes mama very proud!
We passed by the playground on the way to get pizza. So after we ate, Theo changed up the plan again. "First playground, n mooo-vie." As it turned out, that was my intention anyway, since we were still early for meeting Joe and Clay. Plus, I'm thrilled to encourage this understanding of sequence.
We met up with Joe and Clay, went into the movie theatre, and bought Maow her fourth Spongebob toy from the machine (see yesterday's post). Once seated, it was still dark, and Theo said, "Mommy, where mooo-vie? I want mooo-vie!" Finally, the movie came on, and Theo sat like a perfect little boy during the whole thing. He had his tub of pringles and bottle of water, and he was set. He even laughed at various points! He seems to really enjoy the experience in being in a theatre and watching a movie with other people.
Yesterday I told him that we were first going to get pizza, then go to the movies. He was very excited by this, and repeated as we walked hand in hand, "first pizza, n mooo-vie!" Then we passed by the ice cream truck, and he changed up the plan. "Mommy, first ice cream, n pizza, n movie!" How could I not give in to that?
He ran up to the ice cream lady in the truck, pointed to a picture of the vanilla cone, and said, "I want nilla peese!" She, charmed, gave him his order, and he said "thank you!" People get the biggest smiles on their faces when they hear my little guy's good manners. Makes mama very proud!
We passed by the playground on the way to get pizza. So after we ate, Theo changed up the plan again. "First playground, n mooo-vie." As it turned out, that was my intention anyway, since we were still early for meeting Joe and Clay. Plus, I'm thrilled to encourage this understanding of sequence.
We met up with Joe and Clay, went into the movie theatre, and bought Maow her fourth Spongebob toy from the machine (see yesterday's post). Once seated, it was still dark, and Theo said, "Mommy, where mooo-vie? I want mooo-vie!" Finally, the movie came on, and Theo sat like a perfect little boy during the whole thing. He had his tub of pringles and bottle of water, and he was set. He even laughed at various points! He seems to really enjoy the experience in being in a theatre and watching a movie with other people.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Maow and her Spongebob toy collection
Every time we go to the movies, we buy Maow this 50 cent Spongebob toy from a machine. At first it was meant for Theo, but she took possession immediately.
This video cracks me up because you can see her with all three of them. How she doesn't lose them, I'll never know. Watch as she goes from an old one, to a new one (the difference is quite clear) and then another old one. We're going to see the Simpsons movie tonight. Can't wait to bring her home another Spongebob!
I equate her Spongebobs to the Velveteen Rabbit. As you can see, the new one is yellow and crisp, and the old ones are torn and tattered. That's how you can tell how much love they've gotten.
The Twinkle
Theo has been getting a twinkle in his eye lately when he knows he's being funny or when someone else is being funny. I'm thrilled to see his sense of humor developing so well!
The other day Joe and Theo were on the train and Theo asked, "Where's mommy?" Joe told Theo mommy was eaten by an alligator.
"No, daddy. Mommy not eaten by alligator."
And to be a scootch, he calls my mom Grandma Popcorn and Joe's mom Grandma Ice Cream. Always with the mischieveous twinkle.
The other day Joe and Theo were on the train and Theo asked, "Where's mommy?" Joe told Theo mommy was eaten by an alligator.
"No, daddy. Mommy not eaten by alligator."
And to be a scootch, he calls my mom Grandma Popcorn and Joe's mom Grandma Ice Cream. Always with the mischieveous twinkle.
Little Man
I am guilty of not posting for a while. I've been meaning to talk about how cute Theo was a couple of weeks ago, when we took him to see the Disney movie Ratatouille. The movie is about a rat who dreams of being a chef--and becomes one.
Theo, who has been my sous chef, recognized some chef-like things. "Cut it!" he exclaimed when the rat chopped veggies. He yelled out other things throughout the movie, like "rain! look, rain!"
For some reason Theo insisted on sitting in the row in front of us. Is he already old enough to be too embarrassed to sit with mom and dad? Of course, he periodically turned around for help opening his drinks and food.
Theo, who has been my sous chef, recognized some chef-like things. "Cut it!" he exclaimed when the rat chopped veggies. He yelled out other things throughout the movie, like "rain! look, rain!"
For some reason Theo insisted on sitting in the row in front of us. Is he already old enough to be too embarrassed to sit with mom and dad? Of course, he periodically turned around for help opening his drinks and food.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
The Good Patient
Poor Theo has strep. But, as is usual when he is sick, he is in good spirits. He never minds going to the doc; we chanted "doc-tor! doc-tor!" on the way over, and I'm willing to say he even got excited!
When we got home, he passed out on my bed. A couple of hours later, he woke up and guided me to the couch, making it clear that it was huggie time. He's especially mushy and cuddly when sick!
He is very sad, however, that he didn't get to ride the school bus today, and will be even more upset to learn he can't tomorrow either. "No school bus? No Grace today?" "I want schoooool buuuuuus."
When we got home, he passed out on my bed. A couple of hours later, he woke up and guided me to the couch, making it clear that it was huggie time. He's especially mushy and cuddly when sick!
He is very sad, however, that he didn't get to ride the school bus today, and will be even more upset to learn he can't tomorrow either. "No school bus? No Grace today?" "I want schoooool buuuuuus."
Monday, July 16, 2007
Central Park Sunday
Yesterday, Theo and I met up with a couple of my friends, one of whom has a five year old son, Honor. We've gotten the boys together every so often for the past few years.
Honor's a year older, but Theo's taller! What else is new?
Theo repeatedly climbed a super tall ladder and slid down a super high pole for at least an hour. I watched as other kids--who were older than he--chickened out. Theo may be a daredevil, but at least he's a skilled one.
After spending all that time refusing to go near the water, he insisted on "swimming" right as we were about to leave. How's this for a switch? He soaked his jeans and I changed him into the bathing suit I had packed to take him home in!
Honor's a year older, but Theo's taller! What else is new?
Theo repeatedly climbed a super tall ladder and slid down a super high pole for at least an hour. I watched as other kids--who were older than he--chickened out. Theo may be a daredevil, but at least he's a skilled one.
After spending all that time refusing to go near the water, he insisted on "swimming" right as we were about to leave. How's this for a switch? He soaked his jeans and I changed him into the bathing suit I had packed to take him home in!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Annual Independence Day Coney Island Trip
We were particularly excited to take Theo to Coney Island this year. One reason, of course, was that it was Astroland's final summer. Another reason was that Theo would be tall enough for every kiddie ride!
We got there, watched the hot dog eating contest, and then devoured some hot dogs of our own--albeit not 66 of them. On the kiddie rides, Theo and I rode the roller coaster, and he rode the airplanes, motorcycles, trucks, horses, etc...
He laughed so hard when we were on the coaster. I made sure we got the best and fastest ride--the back car, of course!
By the time we went to the beach, it was chilly and about to rain. Still, Theo was convinced he was going to swim. We allowed him to take off his shoes and shirt and approach the water. Needless to say, only his feet made it in. But he sure loved running in and out of the water!
Here's Theo jamming with the street performer he gave money to.
Theo passed out on the hour long train ride home, and woke up in time to watch the fireworks from our window. Or "rain," as he called it. He was so cute shouting out the colors!
Coney Island may never be the same, but we will continue to go every 4th, no matter what. What can I say, it's our thang.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Windy Summer Morning
This morning as Joe and Theo were leaving to wait for the school bus, Theo gave me his usual hug and waved, "Bye, mommy!"
Joe said to Theo, "No, say goodbye like this." And he lifted his leg and farted.
Theo in turn lifted his leg and said very seriously, "No, not like this."
Joe said to Theo, "No, say goodbye like this." And he lifted his leg and farted.
Theo in turn lifted his leg and said very seriously, "No, not like this."
Monday, July 02, 2007
Family-Filled Weekend
Theo saw just about everyone on the planet this weekend!
He saw Aunt Lisa on Tuesday. He saw Uncle Elliot on Wednesday. And on Saturday we went with Grandma Ice Cream and Poppy to see Nonny and Aunt Donny. Then, that night and Sunday he stayed with Grandma Popcorn, Aunt Jodi, and his cousins. Talk about action-packed! And he loved every minute of it!
Especially Nonny's house, where he repeated "I want meatballs" until his demand was met by an enthusiastic, thrilled little ol' lady.
This picture of the cats is here because I haven't paid them any blog attention in a while, and they're damn cute and deserving of it!
He saw Aunt Lisa on Tuesday. He saw Uncle Elliot on Wednesday. And on Saturday we went with Grandma Ice Cream and Poppy to see Nonny and Aunt Donny. Then, that night and Sunday he stayed with Grandma Popcorn, Aunt Jodi, and his cousins. Talk about action-packed! And he loved every minute of it!
Especially Nonny's house, where he repeated "I want meatballs" until his demand was met by an enthusiastic, thrilled little ol' lady.
This picture of the cats is here because I haven't paid them any blog attention in a while, and they're damn cute and deserving of it!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
No School Right Now
Thursday was the last day of school, and summer session starts in 2 weeks. On Friday, he was so forlorn when we told him "no school bus today" that he started to cry. But when I picked him up from Kathy's that afternoon, he was his cheery self. He told me, "no book-bag." And he's been telling me that when I pick him up every day this week!
Our walks home are hilarious. I get there, and he runs to me with full force, sweetly waves "bye, Kathy!" and we're off. He directs us home. Sometimes he wants to cross the street laterally, sometimes he wants to go on the 25 cent mechanical horse ("I want horse up and down!"), sometimes he wants to go to the store, sometimes he wants a gumball from the machine, and most days he wants to go to the ice cream truck. He doesn't always get his way, of course, but he does a majority of the time since I like to encourage his asking for things--and he's so damn cute--and he throws a fit when he doesn't get his way on days when he's tired.
The other day we were walking home, and he pointed to a wall and said "empty!" I didn't realize what the heck he was talking about until I remembered that until then, there were rows of tall bushes. Apparently they were removed for some reason, and I didn't notice, but he sure did! Because he used to love to run behind them! But isn't he a perceptive little guy? He knows so much more than any of us knows he knows. Try saying that three times fast.
Our walks home are hilarious. I get there, and he runs to me with full force, sweetly waves "bye, Kathy!" and we're off. He directs us home. Sometimes he wants to cross the street laterally, sometimes he wants to go on the 25 cent mechanical horse ("I want horse up and down!"), sometimes he wants to go to the store, sometimes he wants a gumball from the machine, and most days he wants to go to the ice cream truck. He doesn't always get his way, of course, but he does a majority of the time since I like to encourage his asking for things--and he's so damn cute--and he throws a fit when he doesn't get his way on days when he's tired.
The other day we were walking home, and he pointed to a wall and said "empty!" I didn't realize what the heck he was talking about until I remembered that until then, there were rows of tall bushes. Apparently they were removed for some reason, and I didn't notice, but he sure did! Because he used to love to run behind them! But isn't he a perceptive little guy? He knows so much more than any of us knows he knows. Try saying that three times fast.
Fun Cutie Pie
Theo has been so cute lately! Largely due to his talking, but he's just a super sweet mush ball, too. Since we've been putting him to bed at an earlier time, he's been waking up at 6:30am, which is agonizing for me at first, but he's so cute it wins me over. He comes into my bed and gets under the covers, hugs me, and starts talking to me. Sometimes he brings a teddy bear or a book. He is full of energy and ready to climb a mountain. Joe and I lie there, groggy, enjoying the cuddle and trying to keep him from jumping on us.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Silly Sleeper
I walked in the other night and found Theo asleep in his bed, still holding his favorite book, "No David," which was opened to the page that always makes him laugh: David running through the street naked (Theo always points to his butt and giggles, "poop").
A day with Grandma Ice-Cream and Poppy
Guest blogger: Grandma Ice Cream
I could see right away after being out in the playground that Theo was thirsty. After many rounds of being told "Come here, Grandma, slide" and complying, I was thirsty.too. Thirsty but happy. And anxious to try out my new Jack LaLanne Power Juicer. So we made orange juice (the regular old orange- juice- squeezer way, because it tastes better) and then I put through some carrots in my new juicer. Out came the carrot juice, to Theo's wide-eyed delight, and he couldn't wait to try it. He juiced carrots, celery, and an apple. (With a little help from Grandma Ice-Cream) We shared a big glass of the juices, and everytime he tasted it, he made a face, but kept insisting he liked it and wanted more. It was really funny to watch him.
He took an interest in the paintings we have hanging. "Who's that?" he asked, seeing the one hanging in the dinette. "Gustav Mahler", I replied. What's that, I asked him, of the picture hanging above my couch. "Paris", he said, and Grampa couldn't believe his ears. Paris it was.
Then we went to get the car checked out and brought up to spec for the summer. While we waited, we went to the Barbershop to get haircuts. Grampa Chocolate-Milk, (Theo's new name for Poppy after bonding over haircuts and chocolate milk) got his haircut after Theo, so he got to watch him. Theo loves to get his hair cut. He was so good and cute. The barber gave him a high-five and a lollypop. Theo was happy and kept looking in the mirror and smiling. About his haircut and his lollipop. :)
Time for pizza. Boy did he eat. He loves his pizza!
The car still wasn't ready, so off we went to the library, where Theo and I read and sang stories in the children's section. Getting a bit restless, we took a walk along Northern Boulevard and came upon Burger King. There Theo played with abandon and immersed himself in tunnels,other kids, fries and chicken nuggets.
Finally the car was ready and we came home. Theo pulled out a movie he likes when he comes over (BabySongs) and we relaxed to it together. While preparing some dinner, I came in to find him sound asleep on the couch. He must have been so tired. Grampa Chocolate Milk Poppy carried him to the bed to rest.
And then his beautiful mommy came home.
I could see right away after being out in the playground that Theo was thirsty. After many rounds of being told "Come here, Grandma, slide" and complying, I was thirsty.too. Thirsty but happy. And anxious to try out my new Jack LaLanne Power Juicer. So we made orange juice (the regular old orange- juice- squeezer way, because it tastes better) and then I put through some carrots in my new juicer. Out came the carrot juice, to Theo's wide-eyed delight, and he couldn't wait to try it. He juiced carrots, celery, and an apple. (With a little help from Grandma Ice-Cream) We shared a big glass of the juices, and everytime he tasted it, he made a face, but kept insisting he liked it and wanted more. It was really funny to watch him.
He took an interest in the paintings we have hanging. "Who's that?" he asked, seeing the one hanging in the dinette. "Gustav Mahler", I replied. What's that, I asked him, of the picture hanging above my couch. "Paris", he said, and Grampa couldn't believe his ears. Paris it was.
Then we went to get the car checked out and brought up to spec for the summer. While we waited, we went to the Barbershop to get haircuts. Grampa Chocolate-Milk, (Theo's new name for Poppy after bonding over haircuts and chocolate milk) got his haircut after Theo, so he got to watch him. Theo loves to get his hair cut. He was so good and cute. The barber gave him a high-five and a lollypop. Theo was happy and kept looking in the mirror and smiling. About his haircut and his lollipop. :)
Time for pizza. Boy did he eat. He loves his pizza!
The car still wasn't ready, so off we went to the library, where Theo and I read and sang stories in the children's section. Getting a bit restless, we took a walk along Northern Boulevard and came upon Burger King. There Theo played with abandon and immersed himself in tunnels,other kids, fries and chicken nuggets.
Finally the car was ready and we came home. Theo pulled out a movie he likes when he comes over (BabySongs) and we relaxed to it together. While preparing some dinner, I came in to find him sound asleep on the couch. He must have been so tired. Grampa Chocolate Milk Poppy carried him to the bed to rest.
And then his beautiful mommy came home.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
This Week's Happenings
I'm writing this from a courthouse in Jamaica, where I'm on my third glorious, honorable day of jury duty.
Today is Theo's last day of school for a couple of weeks, and then the summer session begins. Joe went to their little graduation party a couple of days ago. Theo wasn't graduating, of course, but most of his class was. That'll be Theo next year!
This past weekend was a very park-y one. On Saturday we went to Bear Mountain with Joanne Highley and the gang. Theo had a great time on the rowboat, at the playground, and watching our group volleyball game. In between each play, he ran on the field, gave me a hug, and ran back to the grass to sit and watch.
The next day, Father's Day, we got to Central Park at 7:30 a.m. to wait for Romeo and Juliet tickets, which would be handed out at 1 p.m. Theo was a pretty good boy. He enjoyed watching the many dogs go by. We had blankets and pillows with us and wanted to take a family nap, but Theo wasn't having it. Somehow he was a ball of energy!
Today is Theo's last day of school for a couple of weeks, and then the summer session begins. Joe went to their little graduation party a couple of days ago. Theo wasn't graduating, of course, but most of his class was. That'll be Theo next year!
This past weekend was a very park-y one. On Saturday we went to Bear Mountain with Joanne Highley and the gang. Theo had a great time on the rowboat, at the playground, and watching our group volleyball game. In between each play, he ran on the field, gave me a hug, and ran back to the grass to sit and watch.
The next day, Father's Day, we got to Central Park at 7:30 a.m. to wait for Romeo and Juliet tickets, which would be handed out at 1 p.m. Theo was a pretty good boy. He enjoyed watching the many dogs go by. We had blankets and pillows with us and wanted to take a family nap, but Theo wasn't having it. Somehow he was a ball of energy!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Tales of Laundry and Woe
Last night after work I got Theo from the sitter and told him we were doing laundry. He was immediately excited. I know I've posted this before, but he loves it! He carries down the detergent, knows to press C on the elevator instead of 1 when we're going out, and helps put the clothes in the washer and dryer, and puts the quarters in and pushes the buttons.
One time, a while ago, he slammed the gate to the laundry room shut, locking us in. We had to go through another door that leads outside and wait for a neighbor to come by to let us into the lobby.
Since then, I've been careful to make sure Theo doesn't lock that door. But last night, I was distracted, and sure enough I heard the dreaded slam. I was exhausted and furious, and so I told Theo to sit down in time out, and that he couldn't help me with laundry. Even in my anger I had to laugh at the idea of punishing a kid by telling him he COULDN'T do a chore. After a few minutes of his sad face I couldn't take it and let him help me load the washer, which he did gleefully.
When it was time to go upstairs, he ran to the door that leads outside. I couldn't believe it! He remembered! He had locked the gate on purpose so that'd we'd have to use the other door and go outside! I swear, what a little pest I have. A smart pest, though.
On the elevator ride back up I told him I wanted a hug. He gave me one, and then he said "I want kiss." I kissed him and we were friends again.
One time, a while ago, he slammed the gate to the laundry room shut, locking us in. We had to go through another door that leads outside and wait for a neighbor to come by to let us into the lobby.
Since then, I've been careful to make sure Theo doesn't lock that door. But last night, I was distracted, and sure enough I heard the dreaded slam. I was exhausted and furious, and so I told Theo to sit down in time out, and that he couldn't help me with laundry. Even in my anger I had to laugh at the idea of punishing a kid by telling him he COULDN'T do a chore. After a few minutes of his sad face I couldn't take it and let him help me load the washer, which he did gleefully.
When it was time to go upstairs, he ran to the door that leads outside. I couldn't believe it! He remembered! He had locked the gate on purpose so that'd we'd have to use the other door and go outside! I swear, what a little pest I have. A smart pest, though.
On the elevator ride back up I told him I wanted a hug. He gave me one, and then he said "I want kiss." I kissed him and we were friends again.
Booty Marks
As most children do, Theo gets kissed when he has a boo-boo. One day he started returning the favor. He started kissing my boo-boos, and even the cats' boo-boos, although they don't have any so he was really just making it up.
Once in a while he got confused and thought my beauty marks were boo-boos, and so he'd kiss those too! Every time he did that, I corrected him of course, and he would repeat -- "booty mark?" I'd tell him "yes, that's a beauty mark," and after a while, he got the concept of what a beauty mark is.
Now, he purposefully kisses my beauty marks! He'll find one, say "look, mommy, booty mark! Kiss!" and kiss it. I have a ton of them, and he finds them all. He'll lift my shirt and get to the ones on my belly, he'll find them on my legs... he's such a sweetie pie! In the morning he wakes up and comes into our bed, full of hugs and beauty mark kisses.
Once in a while he got confused and thought my beauty marks were boo-boos, and so he'd kiss those too! Every time he did that, I corrected him of course, and he would repeat -- "booty mark?" I'd tell him "yes, that's a beauty mark," and after a while, he got the concept of what a beauty mark is.
Now, he purposefully kisses my beauty marks! He'll find one, say "look, mommy, booty mark! Kiss!" and kiss it. I have a ton of them, and he finds them all. He'll lift my shirt and get to the ones on my belly, he'll find them on my legs... he's such a sweetie pie! In the morning he wakes up and comes into our bed, full of hugs and beauty mark kisses.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Happy Birthday Nonny!
Tomorrow is Nonny's birthday, and Theo will probably pay her a visit with my parents. I'm sure they'll both be very excited to see each other! He occasionally sings about "NonnyDonny."
Monday, June 04, 2007
Maybe He Prefers Sondheim
Tonight I was watching a PBS show on Broadway's Treasures. They did a segment on Hammerstein's last song before he died, Edelweiss. I started to sing it. "Edelweiss, edelweiss, every morning you greet me..."
Theo, who was vrooming his bus on the rug, said, "don't sing."
Theo, who was vrooming his bus on the rug, said, "don't sing."
Milk for Two and Two for Milk
Yesterday Theo asked for milk, and since I wanted some too, I brought out two cups. He insisted on pouring, and we sat and drank our milk together.
This morning Theo climbed into our bed and said, "Mommy, I want to drink milk." I went inside, put a cup and the milk carton on the table, and returned to my room. Seconds later, he entered my room holding TWO cups of milk in his hand. He held one out to me and said, "Mommy, drink!"
This morning Theo climbed into our bed and said, "Mommy, I want to drink milk." I went inside, put a cup and the milk carton on the table, and returned to my room. Seconds later, he entered my room holding TWO cups of milk in his hand. He held one out to me and said, "Mommy, drink!"
Quick School Briefing
On Thursday I visited Theo's school for a parents' brunch. I know, I'm a Stepford mom. Afterward, I went up to his classroom and he put his arm around me and showed me what he was doing. And other kids said, "Hi Theo's mommy!" It felt good that they remembered me.
I got a chance to talk to Grace, his teacher, who gave me a good report. She said he's doing better with gaining attention and asking for things.
When I had to leave, Theo cried. His little classmates were very concerned about him.
I got a chance to talk to Grace, his teacher, who gave me a good report. She said he's doing better with gaining attention and asking for things.
When I had to leave, Theo cried. His little classmates were very concerned about him.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
A Weekend That Went Swimmingly
I waited to post about Memorial Day Weekend because I didn't want to do it without photographic representation. And now I have it.
Last weekend, before heading off to the Hamptons, Joe took Theo around midtown for a mini photo shoot.
Herald Square:
Outside a fire station:
We took off to East Hampton to stay with Joe's friend, who has house there. We enjoyed a sleepy train ride, arrived at the house at night, watched a movie, and crashed. The following morning, an energy-filled little boy burst into our room and immediately demanded to go outside. I took him out back where the pool is, and he asked where the boats were. He was referring to the floaties in the pool that we called boats last year. I was really impressed with his memory! Then again, this is his third summer in this house (fourth if you count the first one in my belly).
Later, when the sun was out, Joe and Theo put on their new matching bathing suits.
Theo was eager to go in the water. I was only in the pool briefly, but the first swim of the summer was glorious. The water was pretty cold, but Theo didn't seem to mind -- unlike his fuddy duddy parents.
The shallow end of the pool is 3 feet, and Theo's head stands well above the surface, but he was still too scared to stand alone. And so after a bit of trial and error, he invented his own method of swimming. He holds on to the wall with both his hands and feet. His hands inch along the edge of the pool, and his feet walk across the wall in the water. With this method, he was able to swim the perimeter of the pool -- even in the deep end.
Later, when it was cooler out, we piled into the jacuzzi. For the rest of the weekend, Theo begged to go in the "hot water with bubbles" and the pool was no longer as enticing.
Last weekend, before heading off to the Hamptons, Joe took Theo around midtown for a mini photo shoot.
Herald Square:
Outside a fire station:
We took off to East Hampton to stay with Joe's friend, who has house there. We enjoyed a sleepy train ride, arrived at the house at night, watched a movie, and crashed. The following morning, an energy-filled little boy burst into our room and immediately demanded to go outside. I took him out back where the pool is, and he asked where the boats were. He was referring to the floaties in the pool that we called boats last year. I was really impressed with his memory! Then again, this is his third summer in this house (fourth if you count the first one in my belly).
Later, when the sun was out, Joe and Theo put on their new matching bathing suits.
Theo was eager to go in the water. I was only in the pool briefly, but the first swim of the summer was glorious. The water was pretty cold, but Theo didn't seem to mind -- unlike his fuddy duddy parents.
The shallow end of the pool is 3 feet, and Theo's head stands well above the surface, but he was still too scared to stand alone. And so after a bit of trial and error, he invented his own method of swimming. He holds on to the wall with both his hands and feet. His hands inch along the edge of the pool, and his feet walk across the wall in the water. With this method, he was able to swim the perimeter of the pool -- even in the deep end.
Later, when it was cooler out, we piled into the jacuzzi. For the rest of the weekend, Theo begged to go in the "hot water with bubbles" and the pool was no longer as enticing.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
The Sport of Theo-Spoiling
As I sit at my desk typing this, Theo is squeezed on to my chair next to me, as he often is when I'm working on the computer.
He's such a little sweetie.
Theo has had an eventful last couple of days. On Friday night we had a burrito night at our place. Attendees included Aunt Lisa, Marcail, Katie, and Billy. Given that crowd, suffice it to say Theo was spoooiiiiiiiled. I love how much my friends adore my boy. A couple of them (cough, cough, Katie) come just to see him and then remember I live there too.
Yesterday we met up with Aunt Pia in Central Park and gave her a mini tour. He greeted her with a hug and a kiss. We took him on the carousel -- "black horse, I want black horse" and his face when we started moving was priceless. A huge smile that grew as he went faster and higher. Aunt Pia bought him both ices and ice cream. We walked a good couple of miles and Theo more than kept up his energy the whole time. Amazing what strength a kid can muster up at a park!
Inside the park we visited a little playground, but it was a quick stay because Aunt Pia needed to get back to the construction going on in Brooklyn. I tried to get Theo to leave after only a few trips down the slide, but he wasn't having it. And so I told him, "Pia needs to go to Nonny and Aunt Donny's house." He immediately left the slide and came with us obediently. I had the feeling that he thought I meant WE were going to see them. Later, when we said goodbye at the train, Theo asked for Aunt Donny, and so my theory proved true. On the way home I said we were going to see Bruce and Maow, and he started to whimper. "No BruceMaow. NonnyDonnnny!"
Aunt Pia is a faithful reader of this blog, as is Marcail, and so I'm thrilled they both got to witness the Theo progress I've been writing about. Right now it's Sunday morning and he hasn't stopped talking for an hour and a half. Mommy, I want tape! Mommy, I want cereal! Mommy, look, train! Etc..etc...
He's such a little sweetie.
Theo has had an eventful last couple of days. On Friday night we had a burrito night at our place. Attendees included Aunt Lisa, Marcail, Katie, and Billy. Given that crowd, suffice it to say Theo was spoooiiiiiiiled. I love how much my friends adore my boy. A couple of them (cough, cough, Katie) come just to see him and then remember I live there too.
Yesterday we met up with Aunt Pia in Central Park and gave her a mini tour. He greeted her with a hug and a kiss. We took him on the carousel -- "black horse, I want black horse" and his face when we started moving was priceless. A huge smile that grew as he went faster and higher. Aunt Pia bought him both ices and ice cream. We walked a good couple of miles and Theo more than kept up his energy the whole time. Amazing what strength a kid can muster up at a park!
Inside the park we visited a little playground, but it was a quick stay because Aunt Pia needed to get back to the construction going on in Brooklyn. I tried to get Theo to leave after only a few trips down the slide, but he wasn't having it. And so I told him, "Pia needs to go to Nonny and Aunt Donny's house." He immediately left the slide and came with us obediently. I had the feeling that he thought I meant WE were going to see them. Later, when we said goodbye at the train, Theo asked for Aunt Donny, and so my theory proved true. On the way home I said we were going to see Bruce and Maow, and he started to whimper. "No BruceMaow. NonnyDonnnny!"
Aunt Pia is a faithful reader of this blog, as is Marcail, and so I'm thrilled they both got to witness the Theo progress I've been writing about. Right now it's Sunday morning and he hasn't stopped talking for an hour and a half. Mommy, I want tape! Mommy, I want cereal! Mommy, look, train! Etc..etc...
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Lunch Date
I took Theo to Wendys for lunch and ordered a frosty ( which is not quite ice cream, and not quite a milkshake, it's somewhere in between) and two orders of chicken nuggets. For years I have done the gross act of dipping my nuggets in the frosty, and it was time to introduce it to Theo.
Theo is 3 and he's a boy. What's not to love about dipping chicken into ice cream? Or dipping anything into ice cream for that matter.
Theo watched me dip my nugget into the frosty and eat it. He immediately followed suit. I was beaming with pride. Until I noticed that on his next bite, he went back to dipping with barbecue sauce. Gasp! The fiend! The traitor! He rejected my methods! He joined the long list of people who find my combination of chicken and ice cream to be inappropriate. Harumph.
Theo is 3 and he's a boy. What's not to love about dipping chicken into ice cream? Or dipping anything into ice cream for that matter.
Theo watched me dip my nugget into the frosty and eat it. He immediately followed suit. I was beaming with pride. Until I noticed that on his next bite, he went back to dipping with barbecue sauce. Gasp! The fiend! The traitor! He rejected my methods! He joined the long list of people who find my combination of chicken and ice cream to be inappropriate. Harumph.
Family Movie Night
Before you read this, make sure you read the post below about Maow and her toy.
Last night, we went to the local movie theatre to see Shrek 3. It was family movie night - Joe, Theo, Clay, and me.
When we arrived at the theatre, Theo remembered that this is where we got that Spongebob toy. I bought him another one from the machine, and told him he could play with it now and give it to Maow when we got home.
During the movie he dropped the toy a few times, and every time he said, "Maow BunBob!" One of us had to dig for it in the dark since he wouldn't watch the movie quietly without the toy in his hand. Later, when we got home, Theo sweetly handed the toy to Maow. She immediately went to town on it.
A note re: Shrek. Most of you know my obsession with Antonio Banderas. He does the voice of Puss 'N Boots, the cat in Shrek. Theo made his mommy proud last night; the cat was his favorite character. As a matter of fact, whenever the cat WASN'T on screen, Theo scrunched up his face and said, "Where cat?"
Last night, we went to the local movie theatre to see Shrek 3. It was family movie night - Joe, Theo, Clay, and me.
When we arrived at the theatre, Theo remembered that this is where we got that Spongebob toy. I bought him another one from the machine, and told him he could play with it now and give it to Maow when we got home.
During the movie he dropped the toy a few times, and every time he said, "Maow BunBob!" One of us had to dig for it in the dark since he wouldn't watch the movie quietly without the toy in his hand. Later, when we got home, Theo sweetly handed the toy to Maow. She immediately went to town on it.
A note re: Shrek. Most of you know my obsession with Antonio Banderas. He does the voice of Puss 'N Boots, the cat in Shrek. Theo made his mommy proud last night; the cat was his favorite character. As a matter of fact, whenever the cat WASN'T on screen, Theo scrunched up his face and said, "Where cat?"
Monday, May 21, 2007
Whose Toy is it Anyway?
A few months ago, at the local movie theatre, I bought Theo a little toy for 25 cents at one of those toy-dispensing machines. It was a small, squishy, yellow Spongebob ball. Theo played with it for about five seconds and then lost interest. Like so many other things, it ended up on the floor in our apartment.
Pretty soon, Maow discovered the Spongebob toy. She chased it, she swiped it, she carried it around in her mouth -- it was her instant lovey. Weeks ago, I watched in horror as Joe tried to throw it away; not Maow's beloved toy! He would never dare now. She has thoroughly staked her claim on it.
Recently, Theo saw Maow happily playing with her soft little ball, and he said, "No, Maow! My BuhBob!" He bent down and grabbed it, leaving my poor kitty crestfallen. We laughed and told Theo that this had been Maow's ball for quite some time now, and that he hadn''t wanted it. (You'd be surprised at just how often we take the cats' side over his.)
And so Spongebob remains under the table, not so bright and yellow anymore, but loved and cherished in this household.
Pretty soon, Maow discovered the Spongebob toy. She chased it, she swiped it, she carried it around in her mouth -- it was her instant lovey. Weeks ago, I watched in horror as Joe tried to throw it away; not Maow's beloved toy! He would never dare now. She has thoroughly staked her claim on it.
Recently, Theo saw Maow happily playing with her soft little ball, and he said, "No, Maow! My BuhBob!" He bent down and grabbed it, leaving my poor kitty crestfallen. We laughed and told Theo that this had been Maow's ball for quite some time now, and that he hadn''t wanted it. (You'd be surprised at just how often we take the cats' side over his.)
And so Spongebob remains under the table, not so bright and yellow anymore, but loved and cherished in this household.
Friday, May 18, 2007
My Day At School
I love going to visit Theo at school. Every time I go they are doing something so marvelously fun I wish I could be 3 again.
This morning, I took Theo to his school bus and then met him at school a little while later. It was my first "have to go back home for toy" experience. While waiting for the bus, Theo said, "bus is home." He was referring to the little toy bus he takes with him every morning, and he suddenly got very sad when he realized he didn't have it. Not wanting to miss the real bus, I tried to distract him and get him to sing the alphabet song. It was the most depressing rendition I've ever heard. He sang it, but with a sour face and a sad voice. So of course, we went back upstairs and he found his bus. He was the happiest kid in the universe after that.
I got to school and met for about a half hour with Christa, a social worker with whom I keep in contact on a regular basis. We discussed Theo's progress, and both had good things to report. Little to no hitting, more speech, etc.
After, Christa took me down to Grace's classroom, where they were singing their daily songs. I know these songs pretty well because Theo comes home and sings them to me. I walked in, and he looked up with a big smile and said, "Hi Mommy!" I sat on the other side of the room from him, and every few minutes he looked over at me and gave me a "what are you doing here?" glance.
I was happy to see Theo participating in the songs much more than the last time I was there. He was also participating in their discussion of caterpillars. May is bug month (every month has a theme). They have caterpillars in the classroom, and they're going to watch them spin cocoons and turn into butterflies over the next weeks. I used to collect caterpillars as a kid and do the same thing in my room! The kids loved looking at them with a magnifying glass.
Overall, Theo was much more verbal throughout the day than I expected. Certainly more than last time, which was a couple of weeks ago. He still was pretty behind the other kids. They were more comprehensive and interested in the discussions and songs. Theo kind of just followed along. After they sang a song about ants, they did a project where they make ants by dipping their thumb in black paint, making three circles on green paper, and then drawing in legs with a marker. Theo actually did a pretty good job once he got the hang of it, I was proud of him. But he didn't get that he was making ants. I'm pretty sure he would have if it had been a one on one lesson; for him, it's just a lot of information to take in with so many people around at once.
After the art project, it was time for free play. There are stations set up around the room - blocks, kitchen, table toys, etc.. Each station has room for three kids. Theo wanted to play blocks, but it was already full with three kids. He then did something unusal for him - he started to cry. He cried and kept saying, "I want blocks, I want play blocks," with tears streaming down his face. Grace and the TAs were shocked. They'd never seen this before. Normally if something is full he just goes to something else. We figured it was because I was there. I was actually glad it happened, I was glad they got to see that side of him. After all, tantrums are "normal" kid behavior. Although, at home he doesn't cry when he doesn't get what he wants. He gets mad and whines or yells, but today at school he grew really upset. I guess he was overwhelmed. Luckily, at that point Lee, the physical therapist, came in to take him upstairs for their session. He was still crying, and said "mommy, come" and pulled me out with him. Again, this was surprising to Grace, Lee, and the TAs. You see, he never asserts himself at school. He doesn't tell them what he wants. And with me there, suddenly he was making demands all over the place. Later, during lunch, he asked me for a drink. He never asks them for a drink. He waits for them to initiate. So I'm really glad they got to see him be a bit more like he is at home, so they know I'm not crazy. I was touched to see Grace watching him, I could tell from the look on her face that she was genuinely happy with what she was seeing.
I always enjoy watching Theo's physical therapy sessions with Lee. He is really doing well with her. He's mastered his trike, he knows how to do alll the different swings...today he did the monkey swing, where he goes up a ramp, catches a swing, and then swings to knock down a block of his choosing. He also set up a balance trail made out of velcro blocks, where he'd walk across and pick up a turtle or a frog. He did great, not just in the physical part, but in his understanding of the activities. I was very proud of him today.
I came on a good day - a boy in his class had a birthday party. Paul turned 5. When I asked Theo whose birthday it was, he said "Paul." And he knew how old he was. He was so excited, along with the other kids, to have cake ( a little too excited -- he tried to blow out Paul's candle.)
Another thing that struck me was Theo's interest in the two children who were not in school today. Every day, Grace goes over who is in school and who isn't. The kids are so cute, they're all very concerned if someone is sick. And Theo, throughout the day, told me, "Kaseem not here" or "Tayang not here" with that serious, scrunched up face he makes. I love the awareness he has of his classmates.
I discussed mostly the good things I observed today. There were certainly some negative things, but overall I'm pleased with the progress he is making in school. I can see why he loves it there so much, they have a total blast. They end the day putting on music and dancing, and then each kid gets a special goodbye song sung to him by the class while he spins around a pole and runs out to get his jacket from his cubby.
All I know is, the last time I left his school I was very depressed. I didn't blog about it, I couldn't bring myself to. But my spirits were lifted after today. When I went a few weeks ago it was just after spring break. I guess he had to get back into his groove.
Ooh, ooh! For the first time I saw Theo use a urinal. My big man!
I'll end by mentioning something cute. Grace had the class sing a song about the days of the week, and told them that first they would sing it in a whisper and then they would sing it loud. Well, as they sang it in a whisper, Theo wore a silly smile, full of anticipation. Then, when they started singing loud, he CRACKED UP. He thought it was the most hysterical thing!
This morning, I took Theo to his school bus and then met him at school a little while later. It was my first "have to go back home for toy" experience. While waiting for the bus, Theo said, "bus is home." He was referring to the little toy bus he takes with him every morning, and he suddenly got very sad when he realized he didn't have it. Not wanting to miss the real bus, I tried to distract him and get him to sing the alphabet song. It was the most depressing rendition I've ever heard. He sang it, but with a sour face and a sad voice. So of course, we went back upstairs and he found his bus. He was the happiest kid in the universe after that.
I got to school and met for about a half hour with Christa, a social worker with whom I keep in contact on a regular basis. We discussed Theo's progress, and both had good things to report. Little to no hitting, more speech, etc.
After, Christa took me down to Grace's classroom, where they were singing their daily songs. I know these songs pretty well because Theo comes home and sings them to me. I walked in, and he looked up with a big smile and said, "Hi Mommy!" I sat on the other side of the room from him, and every few minutes he looked over at me and gave me a "what are you doing here?" glance.
I was happy to see Theo participating in the songs much more than the last time I was there. He was also participating in their discussion of caterpillars. May is bug month (every month has a theme). They have caterpillars in the classroom, and they're going to watch them spin cocoons and turn into butterflies over the next weeks. I used to collect caterpillars as a kid and do the same thing in my room! The kids loved looking at them with a magnifying glass.
Overall, Theo was much more verbal throughout the day than I expected. Certainly more than last time, which was a couple of weeks ago. He still was pretty behind the other kids. They were more comprehensive and interested in the discussions and songs. Theo kind of just followed along. After they sang a song about ants, they did a project where they make ants by dipping their thumb in black paint, making three circles on green paper, and then drawing in legs with a marker. Theo actually did a pretty good job once he got the hang of it, I was proud of him. But he didn't get that he was making ants. I'm pretty sure he would have if it had been a one on one lesson; for him, it's just a lot of information to take in with so many people around at once.
After the art project, it was time for free play. There are stations set up around the room - blocks, kitchen, table toys, etc.. Each station has room for three kids. Theo wanted to play blocks, but it was already full with three kids. He then did something unusal for him - he started to cry. He cried and kept saying, "I want blocks, I want play blocks," with tears streaming down his face. Grace and the TAs were shocked. They'd never seen this before. Normally if something is full he just goes to something else. We figured it was because I was there. I was actually glad it happened, I was glad they got to see that side of him. After all, tantrums are "normal" kid behavior. Although, at home he doesn't cry when he doesn't get what he wants. He gets mad and whines or yells, but today at school he grew really upset. I guess he was overwhelmed. Luckily, at that point Lee, the physical therapist, came in to take him upstairs for their session. He was still crying, and said "mommy, come" and pulled me out with him. Again, this was surprising to Grace, Lee, and the TAs. You see, he never asserts himself at school. He doesn't tell them what he wants. And with me there, suddenly he was making demands all over the place. Later, during lunch, he asked me for a drink. He never asks them for a drink. He waits for them to initiate. So I'm really glad they got to see him be a bit more like he is at home, so they know I'm not crazy. I was touched to see Grace watching him, I could tell from the look on her face that she was genuinely happy with what she was seeing.
I always enjoy watching Theo's physical therapy sessions with Lee. He is really doing well with her. He's mastered his trike, he knows how to do alll the different swings...today he did the monkey swing, where he goes up a ramp, catches a swing, and then swings to knock down a block of his choosing. He also set up a balance trail made out of velcro blocks, where he'd walk across and pick up a turtle or a frog. He did great, not just in the physical part, but in his understanding of the activities. I was very proud of him today.
I came on a good day - a boy in his class had a birthday party. Paul turned 5. When I asked Theo whose birthday it was, he said "Paul." And he knew how old he was. He was so excited, along with the other kids, to have cake ( a little too excited -- he tried to blow out Paul's candle.)
Another thing that struck me was Theo's interest in the two children who were not in school today. Every day, Grace goes over who is in school and who isn't. The kids are so cute, they're all very concerned if someone is sick. And Theo, throughout the day, told me, "Kaseem not here" or "Tayang not here" with that serious, scrunched up face he makes. I love the awareness he has of his classmates.
I discussed mostly the good things I observed today. There were certainly some negative things, but overall I'm pleased with the progress he is making in school. I can see why he loves it there so much, they have a total blast. They end the day putting on music and dancing, and then each kid gets a special goodbye song sung to him by the class while he spins around a pole and runs out to get his jacket from his cubby.
All I know is, the last time I left his school I was very depressed. I didn't blog about it, I couldn't bring myself to. But my spirits were lifted after today. When I went a few weeks ago it was just after spring break. I guess he had to get back into his groove.
Ooh, ooh! For the first time I saw Theo use a urinal. My big man!
I'll end by mentioning something cute. Grace had the class sing a song about the days of the week, and told them that first they would sing it in a whisper and then they would sing it loud. Well, as they sang it in a whisper, Theo wore a silly smile, full of anticipation. Then, when they started singing loud, he CRACKED UP. He thought it was the most hysterical thing!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Dirty, Yucky Feet
Theo and I were playing just now, and he pointed to the bottom of my feet and said, "Mommmmy, diiiirty! Yucky!" And of course, I laughed, so now he won't let me forget it. He continues to inform me of my uncleanliness.
A.M. Cuddles
For the past few weeks Theo has been waking up at around 6 A.M. and coming into our bed. He gets between us and wraps his arms and legs around me as if he can't possibly be close enough. He looks at me with wide eyes and an enormous smile, and peacefully falls back asleep.
It's come to be my daily dose of Theo love. It's positively overwhelming. I know I've done something right if this tiny person loves me and needs me so. And it's a daily reminder of my responsibility. He's so small and is dependent on us entirely. One day he won't be, so I need to do right by him as much as I can, while I still can.
It's come to be my daily dose of Theo love. It's positively overwhelming. I know I've done something right if this tiny person loves me and needs me so. And it's a daily reminder of my responsibility. He's so small and is dependent on us entirely. One day he won't be, so I need to do right by him as much as I can, while I still can.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Grandma Ice Cream's piano lesson
This is a video my mom took with her new camera. Of course, she had to spend a lot of time filming my mess of an apartment. But listen to Theo sing up to 18 in a squeaky voice. It's hysterical!
More Cute Stuff
Lately, when Theo gets out of the bath, he puts his three favorite bath toys on the edge of the tub before exiting. His fish, his boat, and his frog. Somehow he manages to carefully get out without knocking them over. I think that because he is getting out of the bath, he thinks they need to get out, too.
Theo helped me with laundry today. How can he be SO excited about putting the damn quarters in the damn machine? You know how you put the quarters in the slots and then push the whole thing in after? Well, out of habit I pushed the thing in after he put in the quarters. He cried for at least 15 minutes. He had wanted to do it himself. In fact, he had his heart set on it. But he was happy after he got to put the clothes in the dryer and put those quarters in. Now, if only he knew how to fold and put clothes away.
On the elevator, Theo always knows whether to press 5 or 1. This is something I screw up all the time, especially in the morning. I'll be on my floor, press 5, and wonder why we're not moving. But he gets it right every time. He even knows that when we're bringing a laundry bag down, he should press C.
And last, but not least, Theo's current snack fancy is mayonnaise on wheat bread. They even each other out, right? Right?
Theo helped me with laundry today. How can he be SO excited about putting the damn quarters in the damn machine? You know how you put the quarters in the slots and then push the whole thing in after? Well, out of habit I pushed the thing in after he put in the quarters. He cried for at least 15 minutes. He had wanted to do it himself. In fact, he had his heart set on it. But he was happy after he got to put the clothes in the dryer and put those quarters in. Now, if only he knew how to fold and put clothes away.
On the elevator, Theo always knows whether to press 5 or 1. This is something I screw up all the time, especially in the morning. I'll be on my floor, press 5, and wonder why we're not moving. But he gets it right every time. He even knows that when we're bringing a laundry bag down, he should press C.
And last, but not least, Theo's current snack fancy is mayonnaise on wheat bread. They even each other out, right? Right?
Happy Mothers' Day
Or is it Happy Mother's Day? Are we saluting individual mothers or mothers as a whole?
Yesterday, I had the honor of spending the day with the reason I got to celebrate this day and his daddy. We went to Blockheads, a Mexican restaurant, and then to Central Park. At Blockheads, we decided that Theo would rather have rice and beans than nugget-type stuff from the kids' menu. Sure enough, he devoured the food on his plate. We were so proud of our healthy little guy!
There's a giant slide at Central Park, and we watched him go down. OK, I went down too, but only once.
We got to spend some good grandma time on Friday and Saturday. And Theo made me a laminated handprint at school, and signed his name, which was the most precious part.
I still find it hard to believe that I'm part of the ring of moms that gets a holiday once a year!
Yesterday, I had the honor of spending the day with the reason I got to celebrate this day and his daddy. We went to Blockheads, a Mexican restaurant, and then to Central Park. At Blockheads, we decided that Theo would rather have rice and beans than nugget-type stuff from the kids' menu. Sure enough, he devoured the food on his plate. We were so proud of our healthy little guy!
There's a giant slide at Central Park, and we watched him go down. OK, I went down too, but only once.
We got to spend some good grandma time on Friday and Saturday. And Theo made me a laminated handprint at school, and signed his name, which was the most precious part.
I still find it hard to believe that I'm part of the ring of moms that gets a holiday once a year!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Quick Piece of Cuteness For Ya
Last night Theo got out of his bath and said, "bye bye bubbles!"
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
More On My Talker
Everyone said that once he starts talking, he won't shut up. I hoped and prayed for that to be true. Well, we may not be discussing philosophy yet, but he doesn't shut up and we do have mini conversatons. From the second he wakes up and tells me he wants to eat or drink, to the moment he goes to bed and demands to read "David Goes to School" for the sixtieth time, he yaps away. Or at least at home, he does. In school, not so much, but for now it's enough to know he's capable.
I've come to really cherish some of his little sayings. For example, he calls gummy bears teddy bears. Or if he wants to do something himself, he says, "I want Theo's turn!" This has become a frequent phrase because he won't let me help him do anything. He has to pour his own milk, open the elevator door, push the button, zip his jacket, etc... Sometimes he'll also say "I wan'do it!"
He's getting really good with possessives. He'll grab my cell phone and go, "this is mommy's phone." Then take Joe's and say, "this is daddy's phone." Then he'll take my phone and shove it in my pocket and say "put in pocket, mommy."
He's still a little fuzzy with pronouns, often referring to himself as Theo. "This is Theo's hat." But it's pretty adorable. And he occasionally does say "my" or "me." When he wants help, he says "help you, peese." I guess it's because I say, "do you want me to help you?" I remember when Max was little he used to say "pick you up" when he wanted to be picked up. It's fascinating to watch someone learn language, as someone who has such a love for the English language. It's a constant evolution. Now when he sees his brother he says "Clay" instead of "pay" and when we see Mr. Softee he demands "ice cweam" instead of i-peen.
Aw, Theo just came over and kissed my shoulder! I'll end on that happy note.
I've come to really cherish some of his little sayings. For example, he calls gummy bears teddy bears. Or if he wants to do something himself, he says, "I want Theo's turn!" This has become a frequent phrase because he won't let me help him do anything. He has to pour his own milk, open the elevator door, push the button, zip his jacket, etc... Sometimes he'll also say "I wan'do it!"
He's getting really good with possessives. He'll grab my cell phone and go, "this is mommy's phone." Then take Joe's and say, "this is daddy's phone." Then he'll take my phone and shove it in my pocket and say "put in pocket, mommy."
He's still a little fuzzy with pronouns, often referring to himself as Theo. "This is Theo's hat." But it's pretty adorable. And he occasionally does say "my" or "me." When he wants help, he says "help you, peese." I guess it's because I say, "do you want me to help you?" I remember when Max was little he used to say "pick you up" when he wanted to be picked up. It's fascinating to watch someone learn language, as someone who has such a love for the English language. It's a constant evolution. Now when he sees his brother he says "Clay" instead of "pay" and when we see Mr. Softee he demands "ice cweam" instead of i-peen.
Aw, Theo just came over and kissed my shoulder! I'll end on that happy note.
Happy Anniversary Blog
Actually, it was in April...we missed it. Oh well. Anyway, this blog has been going for over a year now. Wahoo!
This afternoon we went to the park, and there's a little tunnel there that Theo's been crawling through since he was a baby. It's been interesting to watch the evolution of how he handles it if a kid is already in there. I've seen him do nothing and wait for the kid to leave, I've seen him shove past the kid, I've seen him hit the kid, I've seen him whine...
Well, guess what he did today? He said, "Scoose me, peese." And the kid moved.
This afternoon we went to the park, and there's a little tunnel there that Theo's been crawling through since he was a baby. It's been interesting to watch the evolution of how he handles it if a kid is already in there. I've seen him do nothing and wait for the kid to leave, I've seen him shove past the kid, I've seen him hit the kid, I've seen him whine...
Well, guess what he did today? He said, "Scoose me, peese." And the kid moved.
Weekend in Ringwood
This weekend we went to Ringwood to stay with Grandma Popcorn, Jodi, and the boys. My nephews have gotten so big! We hadn't seen them since before we went to France. Max, though, is still little. Theo is finally taller than he is. But Theo still looks up to him as a little idol. We went to the mall with Grandma Popcorn and Max, and Theo was Max's little shadow. He followed him around and copied everything he did. When Max through a coin in the fountain, Theo threw a coin in the fountain. Max may be small in size but he's become such a big boy in every other way!
We went to Old Navy and Grandma spoiled Theo with a bunch of summer clothes. Max and Theo got matching baseball hats and sandals, too. They wear the same size in everything!
On Saturday morning we watched Ethan's little league baseball game, where they don't keep score and when you're out you still get to run the bases. It was adorable. Ethan's a star player; he hit 2 grand slams this season. Later that day, we saw Alexander's team play. Since the kids are older, it's more of a real game. He can really hit.
This is the first time we visited the family since Theo has really been talking. He didn't stop talking all weekend. I want this, I want that. And he held his own, playing with his cousins. If they took a toy he'd yell "Stop, Ethaaaan!" and things like that.
Jodi has a new puppy, Bo. He's a 2 month old chocolate labrador. He is the cutest thing. We all fell in love, especially Clay. There's nothing like a puppy. And he gets along with Brandy, the other dog, and the 7 cats. Theo seemed to like Bo at first, but by the end of the weekend he was pretty scared of him, since Bo is teething and kept trying to bite Theo's crotch.
The new house in Ringwood is fantastic. I took a walk in the woods and sat by the creek, on a rock, watching the water flow for the longest time. It made me miss my own Alleypond park. Anyway, Theo loved running through the woods, he had a goofy smile on his face. He also is enthralled by both the Mario pinball game in the basement and the pool table. Whenever we played pool he picked a ball and asked for it throughout the game. "I want number four. Number foooooour!" I just love how much he's talking. It's really exciting.
We went to Old Navy and Grandma spoiled Theo with a bunch of summer clothes. Max and Theo got matching baseball hats and sandals, too. They wear the same size in everything!
On Saturday morning we watched Ethan's little league baseball game, where they don't keep score and when you're out you still get to run the bases. It was adorable. Ethan's a star player; he hit 2 grand slams this season. Later that day, we saw Alexander's team play. Since the kids are older, it's more of a real game. He can really hit.
This is the first time we visited the family since Theo has really been talking. He didn't stop talking all weekend. I want this, I want that. And he held his own, playing with his cousins. If they took a toy he'd yell "Stop, Ethaaaan!" and things like that.
Jodi has a new puppy, Bo. He's a 2 month old chocolate labrador. He is the cutest thing. We all fell in love, especially Clay. There's nothing like a puppy. And he gets along with Brandy, the other dog, and the 7 cats. Theo seemed to like Bo at first, but by the end of the weekend he was pretty scared of him, since Bo is teething and kept trying to bite Theo's crotch.
The new house in Ringwood is fantastic. I took a walk in the woods and sat by the creek, on a rock, watching the water flow for the longest time. It made me miss my own Alleypond park. Anyway, Theo loved running through the woods, he had a goofy smile on his face. He also is enthralled by both the Mario pinball game in the basement and the pool table. Whenever we played pool he picked a ball and asked for it throughout the game. "I want number four. Number foooooour!" I just love how much he's talking. It's really exciting.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Happy Birthday Grandma, Bruce, and Maow!
First of all mom, here's a belated birthday present. I wanted to post this on your birthday (Tuesday), but my Internet was down. Now that it's back, here's a present from Theo:
Here is footage and some pics from Saturday's birthday party, which mom was gracious enough to share with Bruce and Maow, my kittens turned cats. They are now 1. Maow turning 1 is a little miracle, so we had to celebrate Orecchio/Nicodemi style. Mom even brought the cats a gift - something they could really appreciate - cans of cat food, of course! And Grandma Popcorn, Joe's mom, called to sing happy birthday on my machine to my mom and the cats.
We do love a good before and after on this here blog. Here's mom with her newly-dead-but-still-at-peace-with-God lobster:
And here's Mr. Lobster, after feeling the birthday girl's wrath:
And no party is complete without cake:
Elliot adds his own music to the end of this one:
I leave you with a sweet family photo, so you can say "awwwwwwwwwwwwww."
Big and Little
If you ask Theo if he's little or big, he always responds, "big!" And he's right. He's growing up. His new thing is taking out the garbage. It doesn't matter if it's half full (or half empty for you pessimists out there) he takes it out of the can and puts it in the hall, then gets a new garbage bag to put in the can, and is sure to neatly tuck it around the edges.
But he's still a baby. As I write he's in the living room happily watching Sesame St. with his grape juice. I had to sneak away and capture the moment. Sure, he likes Spongebob but he still loves his Elmo. And even though he's enormous, about 7'8", he still has his little baby face that keeps him from looking 5 years old...thank goodness!
But he's still a baby. As I write he's in the living room happily watching Sesame St. with his grape juice. I had to sneak away and capture the moment. Sure, he likes Spongebob but he still loves his Elmo. And even though he's enormous, about 7'8", he still has his little baby face that keeps him from looking 5 years old...thank goodness!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Easter 2007
I've been noticably absent from the blog again, but I hope I can make up for it with some super cute videos. These are all from Easter. Theo colored and decorated eggs at Nonny's, and then hunted them at Aunt Donny's. This was the first year he really got the concept of the Easter Egg Hunt, so that was exciting. At first we just hid them on open spaces, like on top of the table, but when we noticed he was really lifting things and all-out hunting, we made the hunt a bit trickier. Here are a couple of interesting places to find eggs:
In the car, mom and dad practiced their scatting with Theo. Maybe I'm talking as his mommy, but I think he did a damn good job.
To see lots of pictures from Easter, including some really cute ones of Cousin Jo and Aunt Don, visit my picture site:
http://www1.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=153482207/a=29417164_29417164/t_=29417164
For a username, enter my gmail email address, and for password, it's: seemypics
In the car, mom and dad practiced their scatting with Theo. Maybe I'm talking as his mommy, but I think he did a damn good job.
To see lots of pictures from Easter, including some really cute ones of Cousin Jo and Aunt Don, visit my picture site:
http://www1.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=153482207/a=29417164_29417164/t_=29417164
For a username, enter my gmail email address, and for password, it's: seemypics
Friday, April 06, 2007
Family Time
Yesterday Grandma joined Theo and me at the mall. We popped by to say hello to the Easter Bunny.
Later that night, mom and dad came over for dinner. After we ate, we were all - my parents, Joe, Clay, and I - sitting around the table and I gave Theo some paper and brand new markers. I told him to draw grandma. No one expected him to actually make a face with hair around it! We told him to add eyes, a nose, and a mouth, and this was the result. His very first real drawing. We were all gasping with shock and bursting with pride. Yuck, sorry for that cliche.
Grandma taught Theo scales on the piano, and we were amazed at how well he played and sang. He has great pitch, honestly. He's so cute singing Do Re Mi!
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Movie Date
Last night Joe was working late, so Theo and I went on a date to see Meet the Robinsons. I figured if he acted up, it was a kids' movie, so it'd be OK. Well, Theo was great, which is more than I can say for the obnoxious adults who sat behind us.
I snuck in fries and nuggets and a drink, which kept Theo happy a while. Then he climbed on to my lap and we cuddled watching the rest of the movie. Which, by the way, was a great movie. I didn't know what to expect.
Before the movie, there was an old Mickey Mouse short, and Theo likes Mickey Mouse, so that made him happy. Also, there was a preview for a movie, Ratatouille, that takes place in France. When they showed the Eiffel Tower, Theo yelled out, "Paris!" People must have been impressed at my smart little guy. Although I think he thinks the Eiffel Tower IS Paris!
When we got home, we decided to draw the things we saw. We drew Louis, the boy from the movie, and a dinosaur. Then Theo wanted to draw Mickey Mouse and Paris (his drawing of Paris was quite amusing). But I was glad to see that he seemed to be picking up that we were drawing things we'd just seen.
I snuck in fries and nuggets and a drink, which kept Theo happy a while. Then he climbed on to my lap and we cuddled watching the rest of the movie. Which, by the way, was a great movie. I didn't know what to expect.
Before the movie, there was an old Mickey Mouse short, and Theo likes Mickey Mouse, so that made him happy. Also, there was a preview for a movie, Ratatouille, that takes place in France. When they showed the Eiffel Tower, Theo yelled out, "Paris!" People must have been impressed at my smart little guy. Although I think he thinks the Eiffel Tower IS Paris!
When we got home, we decided to draw the things we saw. We drew Louis, the boy from the movie, and a dinosaur. Then Theo wanted to draw Mickey Mouse and Paris (his drawing of Paris was quite amusing). But I was glad to see that he seemed to be picking up that we were drawing things we'd just seen.
Beautiful April Day in Astoria Park
Theo has off from school this week, as do my parents, so we thought we'd grab sandwiches and go to a park. Dad came up with the idea of Astoria Park. I hadn't been there since I was little.
Theo made instant friends with kids who got a kick out of sliding with him. They repeatedly waited for each other to go down, cracking up all the way (ho ho ho).
When a boy asked Theo to go on the swing, it went right over his head. He ignored it and continued to run to the slide. That made me a little sad, but dad was right - focus on the positive. The good news is, Theo isn't as cemented in routine at the playground anymore. He tries new routes, and alternates. It's huge progress.
After a while mom said, "Hold my bag, I'm going on the slide." Well, that was all the excuse I needed to go to. Reason being that this slide looked especially slippery. Theo was going very fast each time. Usually I watch kids have to pull themselves down. When you come across a good slide, it's damn irresistible.
Mom and dad had to squeeze through two little girls who were keeping watch at the top of the slide. Who needs American Idol? This was entertainment.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Plane Ride to Paris
This was essentially Theo's first flight. When we went to Geneseo for Adam's wedding, he was only 10 months old.
Theo loves watching this video! He exclaims, "airplane!"
And we have a magnet of the Eiffel Tower on our fridge (of course), and he constantly runs to it and says, "Look, mommy, Paris!"
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Moose Me, Mommy
That's how Theo says "excuse me." When I'm sitting at the computer and he wants to get by, he says "moose me, mommy."
Little Tricks to Keep the Harmony
I have a parenting trick that has worked wonders over the last months. It's called, "this one or this one?"
It started when he was insisting on wearing the same striped shirt all the time, no matter how dirty. So after weeks of torture getting him dressed in the morning, one day I held up two shirts and said, "do you want to wear this one or this one?"
"Ummm," he replied. "This one!" And he picked one and wore it. This turned out to be no fluke. It worked again and again. Joe nearly wept with joy, since it is he who dresses Theo in the morning most of the time.
It works with potty training. He normally wants to wear pullups, not underwear. But if I hold up two underwears, he has to pick one of those, and he is satisfied.
And it extends beyond clothing. It works with food and drinks. It works with which bedtime story we're going to read. It works with which toy he'll get at bathtime. It works with which teddy bear he'll sleep with. You simply give him a choice and he always does the "ummmmmmm" which just kills me, it's so adorable, and then he chooses.
Although I have to admit, my trick backfired on me the other day. I was sitting here at the computer, working, and he came in with two shirts. He performed our whole routine entirely on his own.
He held up the shirts and said. "This one or this one? This one. OK!" (I often say OK after he chooses.)
Then he put on one shirt and put the other back in his drawer. Fine, right? Except he continued to do this for the next half hour. He kept bringing two shirts, having the conversation without me, and changing shirts. At the end shirts were all over the floor.
It started when he was insisting on wearing the same striped shirt all the time, no matter how dirty. So after weeks of torture getting him dressed in the morning, one day I held up two shirts and said, "do you want to wear this one or this one?"
"Ummm," he replied. "This one!" And he picked one and wore it. This turned out to be no fluke. It worked again and again. Joe nearly wept with joy, since it is he who dresses Theo in the morning most of the time.
It works with potty training. He normally wants to wear pullups, not underwear. But if I hold up two underwears, he has to pick one of those, and he is satisfied.
And it extends beyond clothing. It works with food and drinks. It works with which bedtime story we're going to read. It works with which toy he'll get at bathtime. It works with which teddy bear he'll sleep with. You simply give him a choice and he always does the "ummmmmmm" which just kills me, it's so adorable, and then he chooses.
Although I have to admit, my trick backfired on me the other day. I was sitting here at the computer, working, and he came in with two shirts. He performed our whole routine entirely on his own.
He held up the shirts and said. "This one or this one? This one. OK!" (I often say OK after he chooses.)
Then he put on one shirt and put the other back in his drawer. Fine, right? Except he continued to do this for the next half hour. He kept bringing two shirts, having the conversation without me, and changing shirts. At the end shirts were all over the floor.
Look Who's Helping
After 3.5 years, Theo is finally of some use to me. :)
We've always said he's an observer. So often we discover that he's watched us do something and we had no idea. For example, when I take a full garbage bag out of the garbage, I have other garbage bags below it already to make it easier to switch bags. The other day, I took the garbage bag out and brought it into the hall. When I came back, there was Theo with the new garbage bag trying to open it and lay it into the garbage! He needed help, but it was so cute that he knew to do it and was trying so hard.
He doesn't like getting help, and if he can do it on his own, he will. But when he realized he's having trouble, he'll succumb and ask for help then. This morning, I tried to help him open the still-sealed chocolate syrup. "I wando it!" he shouted. But seconds later..."hey mommy, help peese." He cracks me up.
We did laundry earlier and it's actually a great help the way he puts in the clothes. He has more energy than I do and he's j ust so happy to do it. Like I said, he's beginning to be useful. He'll be mopping and doing dishes in no time. Mwahahahahaha.
We've always said he's an observer. So often we discover that he's watched us do something and we had no idea. For example, when I take a full garbage bag out of the garbage, I have other garbage bags below it already to make it easier to switch bags. The other day, I took the garbage bag out and brought it into the hall. When I came back, there was Theo with the new garbage bag trying to open it and lay it into the garbage! He needed help, but it was so cute that he knew to do it and was trying so hard.
He doesn't like getting help, and if he can do it on his own, he will. But when he realized he's having trouble, he'll succumb and ask for help then. This morning, I tried to help him open the still-sealed chocolate syrup. "I wando it!" he shouted. But seconds later..."hey mommy, help peese." He cracks me up.
We did laundry earlier and it's actually a great help the way he puts in the clothes. He has more energy than I do and he's j ust so happy to do it. Like I said, he's beginning to be useful. He'll be mopping and doing dishes in no time. Mwahahahahaha.
Look Who's Talking
As I sit here typing, Theo is fast asleep behind me, exhausted from a hard day of helping me with laundry, going shopping and of course, playing at the playground. I thought I'd take a moment to reflect on the sentences he's been producing lately.
Up until recently, Theo would just name the thing he wanted. Mommy, milk! Mommy, bread! Cheese! He knew the phrases I want and Give me, but only used them when prompted. He also knew how to ask for more of something by simply saying the word "more."
Now suddenly, almost out of the blue, he seems to be putting all of these elements together. "Mommy, I want more cereal." Actually, he says, "hey mommy." It's really cute, he's been going through a phrase of prefacing things with hey. "Hey, mommy, hey daddy, hey Bruce..etc.
The other day, on Sunday morning, we were all lying in bed. Joe wanted to get Theo's attention to tell him something so he said, "Theo." Theo very unexpectedly replied, "Yes, daddy." I think our jaws both dropped! We looked at each other and then hugged the hell out of Theo. He has such a cute little voice to boot!
Yesterday, we were in PC Richard exchanging our vaccuum. Obviously, Theo got bored quickly. I couldn't believe my ears when I heard him say, "Hey mommy, I want to go, peese." He scrunched up his face and whined the words again. To validate what I'd heard, the sales guy said, does he want to go to the bathroom or leave? I laughed and said he wants to leave. I was so thrilled that someone else besides the biased mommy understood the very clear sentence! Theo said it again today in another store. He's very polite with his demands. I want to go, please. Hysterical.
In addition to the sentence structure, his vocabulary is expanding...I almost want to say rapidly. He's understanding and saying more than he ever has. It's getting to the point where we're having mini conversations. That may be exaggerating, but definitely little exchanges.
Some things he says:
"I don't want it"
"No thank you"
"Turn around"
"Move over"
"Get up"
And much, much more. I'm feeling pretty encouraged. I will be visiting school once he's back from spring break, and I'm hoping he talks there the way he does with me. I know school and the people who work with him get tons of credit, of course.
My next goal for him is to really understand stories I read to him. He still doesn't understand an actual story that's being told to him, he just points out some pictures in his books. It's great that he's picked up language he needs to function - as you can see from above, most of what he knows are commands, ways of expressing his needs. Now, I'd like for him to discover how much more there is to speaking, like hearing a story and understanding what's going on in it. Like I said, though, I'm encouraged, since this seems to be the natural progression of learning language.
Up until recently, Theo would just name the thing he wanted. Mommy, milk! Mommy, bread! Cheese! He knew the phrases I want and Give me, but only used them when prompted. He also knew how to ask for more of something by simply saying the word "more."
Now suddenly, almost out of the blue, he seems to be putting all of these elements together. "Mommy, I want more cereal." Actually, he says, "hey mommy." It's really cute, he's been going through a phrase of prefacing things with hey. "Hey, mommy, hey daddy, hey Bruce..etc.
The other day, on Sunday morning, we were all lying in bed. Joe wanted to get Theo's attention to tell him something so he said, "Theo." Theo very unexpectedly replied, "Yes, daddy." I think our jaws both dropped! We looked at each other and then hugged the hell out of Theo. He has such a cute little voice to boot!
Yesterday, we were in PC Richard exchanging our vaccuum. Obviously, Theo got bored quickly. I couldn't believe my ears when I heard him say, "Hey mommy, I want to go, peese." He scrunched up his face and whined the words again. To validate what I'd heard, the sales guy said, does he want to go to the bathroom or leave? I laughed and said he wants to leave. I was so thrilled that someone else besides the biased mommy understood the very clear sentence! Theo said it again today in another store. He's very polite with his demands. I want to go, please. Hysterical.
In addition to the sentence structure, his vocabulary is expanding...I almost want to say rapidly. He's understanding and saying more than he ever has. It's getting to the point where we're having mini conversations. That may be exaggerating, but definitely little exchanges.
Some things he says:
"I don't want it"
"No thank you"
"Turn around"
"Move over"
"Get up"
And much, much more. I'm feeling pretty encouraged. I will be visiting school once he's back from spring break, and I'm hoping he talks there the way he does with me. I know school and the people who work with him get tons of credit, of course.
My next goal for him is to really understand stories I read to him. He still doesn't understand an actual story that's being told to him, he just points out some pictures in his books. It's great that he's picked up language he needs to function - as you can see from above, most of what he knows are commands, ways of expressing his needs. Now, I'd like for him to discover how much more there is to speaking, like hearing a story and understanding what's going on in it. Like I said, though, I'm encouraged, since this seems to be the natural progression of learning language.
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