Shaz by the Sea

BIG NEWS: We are potty training!  This is big because I currently have three kids in diapers - WOOF. I honestly wasn't going to even attempt it until the boys turned 3, but I think they have an interest due to pre-school. Their teacher says that each time someone in the class goes has to go to the bathroom, all the kids go as a class.  Anyway, sometimes in the evenings, I strip the boys of their diapers and we "sit on the potty" to see what happens. Caden went into the bathroom and closed the door. Jim went into the bathroom about 10 minutes later and turns out, he peed! Then he did it again, and a third time in the upstairs bathroom. That was Monday. He has done it a few more times in the evenings before bath time. When I talked to the boys teacher, she said the Conor had peed on the potty at school. I am sure he will start going at home too - especially when he sees Caden doing it. I'm not sure what the next step is - but we are well on our way! How exciti...

Well....I survived a full [work] week without Jim. See? Cal and Con are resting on Mama, and Caden is in the background playing with his gumball machine. Granted I had loads of help from my sis and Linds who helped me tremendously with daycare drop off and pickup - and most importantly with bath and bedtime, as depicted below. Their help was crucial, especially last night. Last night was tough mainly because Cal was crying - and when Cal cries, the boys cry. They are starting to experience more feelings (like empathy, per what I have read) so they are more in tune when someone is upset. I try explaining to them that crying is his way of communicating and he is telling me he is hungry or something, but that doesn't really help. I am sure it's just a phase. Overall, I am proud of myself for getting through a week with the three kiddos, and doing all night feedings; crushing massive amounts of laundry, like all our clothes, towels, and sheets; as well as groce...

This is my first high/low/high post recapping the remainder of our "solo" parenting weekend. I wanted to highlight the high and the low points. My blog is supposed to focus on positive moments - but if there weren't any low moments, there wouldn't be any comparison that the "high" points are really good. So here goes... HIGH : Helpful Big Brothers I have two amazing older boys who have helped more than I could have ever imagined. Cal was crying yesterday, so Caden went over to the table, got Cal's bottle and started to "feed" Cal. He didn't even bring it to me...he did it all on his own. Con joined in and they were both taking care of their little brother. Also - another time Cal was crying, Conor went over to Cal's pack n play and grabbed his blanket. He draped it over Cal, clapped his hands and yelled "yay"! I feel that is something that can't be taught. I am grateful that his instinct was to help his brother...

Jim's in China for two weeks. He was actually told the day Cal was born that he had to travel to China for two weeks in Aug. He left at 4AM and he comes back Aug 20. So it's my first real solo day with all three boys. Thankfully, my parents have stopped by to help with a few things like breakfast and lunch - and also to go for walks with me and the boys. I would have to say that the hardest thing is trying to be punctual with nursing/pumping while trying to keep the boys entertained. The boys have been great, only a few tantrums and whining moments today, so I am thankful for that. Here is how we do Sundays when Daddy is out of the country..... Con and Cay are trying to play with Cal. Cal looks terrified. I recruited some help to hold Cal... Thank you to Anne Rocke for this adorable chevron blanket for Cal...personalized with his name and birthday. And thank you for the light up balls for the twins. They have been very entertained this morning. Much needed. T...