Winning!

 Go Cocks!  

 

We don't think it's just a coincidence that South Carolina brought home their second consecutive NCAA  baseball championship the same year that we are pregnant with our own Baby Cocks.  No, the team didn't rub my belly, but it's a good sign, for sure.  Baby Cocks is winning!

Many of you stayed up late to watch the series unfold and noted that our Gamecocks made their fans hold their breath and eyelids open through extra innings.  Let's all hope that Baby Cocks doesn't require extra innings in labor and delivery.

Melodrama

I was lying in bed when I overheard a tiff between Daddy and Henry last night.  It sounded like Daddy was adamant about Henry brushing his teeth before putting on a band-aid, and Henry was disproportionately adamant about putting on the band-aid before brushing his teeth.  His justification?

If I don't put it on now, it will hurt for TEN YEARS!

Daddy's Day Out

I'm giving myself a pat on the back for coordinating Cory's Father's Day extravaganza.  The most deserving of pats, though, are Grandjane, Grandjoe, and Elizabeth.  They did the labor and heavy lifting, starting on Friday when Grandjane and Elizabeth came over and cleaned the house, top to bottom, and even cleaned out the pea gravel laden truck bed.  Cory was quite pleased about the house cleaning break.

Saturday Morning: Gone Fishing

To Paris Mountain

One of the many spots Daddy says they stopped to fish along the lake...

A tiny brim borrowed from Daddy!

A "camoo" ride in which Daddy was surprised at how well Henry was able to paddle

Upon returning home from Paris Mountain, Daddy discovered that Grandjoe, Grandjane, and Elizabeth cut the grass, did some weeding and trim work, and even picked up the many fallen limbs from our most recent storm.  They also set up his surprise present...

A regulation size disc golf basket!  Thanks to Grandjoe and Grandjane for picking up my Craiglist find.

Penny is catching on to the idea of not catching on to the discs.  It will be a while, though, before she can be fully trusted not to catch a golf frisbee.  Totally confusing for her, I'm sure!

Then, after a grilled hotdog dinner, we settled by a backyard campfire for roasted marshmallows and a really, really, really ridiculously long campfire story.  

First, Daddy prepared the smoker for his first brisket.

Daddy's boy could hardly wait to properly roast his sugary, gelatinous confection.

Finally, Daddy and son were ready to turn in and sleep in the backyard tent.

Directly overhead lightening, loud thunder, and a heavy downpour forced Daddy to bring a sleep-fussing boy back inside at 4:30 AM.  

And, on Sunday morning, we caught our first whiffs of the mouthwatering brisket.

To be shared with the Daddy's Day Out staff members, including my very own Daddy.

It was a great opportunity to show a fraction of my gratitude for Cory's unrelenting hard work that keeps our house running smoothly.  Thanks for all the help.  We got us a surprised, happy, and relaxed Daddy!

Best Seat in the House

Daddy, your boy luuuuuuuuuuuuvs you.

Happy Father's Day to the man who makes me feel like a genius for having kids with the very best Daddy.

Stubbornly Defiant

Henry left the tantrum phase behind many, many months ago.  Good news, yes?  The problem is that he traded in tantrums for outright defiance and seems to be sticking with perfecting it.

Earlier tonight, right before Daddy got dinner ready, I told Henry that I would help him put all his coins back in his train bank. It was time for him to wash his hands, and we would take care of the coins after dinner.

I forgot all about it and was lying down beside him in his bed when I remembered that the coins were still scattered across the living room rug.

Silly me.  I decided to mention it and tell him that we could pick them up tomorrow if he got ready for school really quickly.

Bad move.

All he wanted to do was to get down and pick up the coins, which would take about 45 minutes given his state of mind.  He understood that I would take the coins away if he tried to go into the living room.  Still, he would get halfway down his stepping stool and say, "I really am going to go in there!"

I couldn't stand how much I had to pee.  I told him that I would go to the potty, and I hoped that he would make a good choice and get back into the bed since, by this time, he was standing beside his bed, still threatening to go into the living room.

It was a good extra ten minutes before I checked on him and found him curled up on the floor beside his bed.  Thinking he might be asleep, I whispered, "Henry?"  He rolled over to look at me with eyes wide open.

"You need to get back in bed."
"No."
"Are you really going to sleep on the floor?"
"Yes!  I'm not getting in the bed."
"OK.  Night night."

About ten minutes later, he started crying and got back in bed, citing a dirty floor.  He tried to demand that I get back in the bed, but this Mama can't get up and down, and I sure don't want to waste an up and down on a cave in.

Mathematician

There was some parenting article that I skimmed recently that suggested not passing on your math anxiety to your kids.  Believe it or not, I think we already knew not to teach Henry to hate math.  Go figure.

I have to say that I am quite proud of Cory and me for working math into our daily narrative with Henry, and this morning, I realized that taking advantage of Henry's enthusiasm for learning might be working.  For several months, he has been able to answer our questions about, "How many pillows will be left if I take one from this stack before you try to hurdle it?" or "If Mama puts two more grapes on your plate, how many will you have?"  Of course, there are clear visuals to prompt his answers.

This morning, though, I told H that I would let him watch his show after he took four more bites of his scrambled egg.  He took two, and then he said, "Now I need to take two more bites!"  The mathematical statement was unprompted by me, and I lack the education jargon to explain how it's different, but it is. I thought it was rather cool, and now I am getting away with myself.   Is it possible that my verbal chid has a potentially well rounded academic future?  My child?

For the record, we do not make eggs and such on a typical week day morning, and television is never an option, either. Today was a special Daddy and son waterpark day, and they didn't have to leave the house until 10:00 AM.

Waterpark + Crocs = Wiggle Room

Too much Wiggle Room + Television = Late Departure for Waterpark

If you were Henry...

You wouldn't just get songs stuck in your head.  No, you would also get "a song stuck in my stomach that I need to sing."

Will he always be this funny to us?

Pointless Nostalgic

Lately, for some reason, I have been feeling a lot of nostalgia for Clem Snide.  I did some quick googling and found out that they got back together quite a while back, released a new album last year, and they're touring as close as Atlanta and Asheville in July.  It's good to know the lyricists are making music, but if a band makes music in a small venue, and I'm not there to hear it, does it really make a sound?

There have also been some days when, WHAM!  Out of nowhere, I will start really, really missing Lost.  Was it because the final episode left so many unanswered questions--so many plots left dangling?  Nope.  I finally figured out that it's related to some construction going on down the road.  One of the pieces of machinery sounds eerily like The Smoke Monster.  Still, no new episodes of Lost.  Just a distant reminder.

Ah, but it's all worth it--missed concerts, an unattainable series, a wondering and distractible pregnancy brain.  Plus, we started the third trimester yesterday.  We're rounding the corner!

Kicks and Punches

Today, after breakfast, Henry got to feel Cocks kicking and punching.  I don't think that he really felt it before, although he did claim to a couple of times.  Those times, he was probably just tired of standing there and wanted to move on to do more important things.  Searching for bug carcasses on the windowsills comes to mind.

This morning, Henry and Cory put their hands on either side of my belly, and Cocks responded with a chorus of kicks and fist bumps.  Henry froze for a second, his eyes wide, and gave us a huge smile.  He certainly did feel it this time.  If anyone asks, he is quick to respond that, "They are not bad kicks.  They're good kicks!"

We'll see how he feels about brotherly kicks in a couple of years.

Go Cocks at 27 Weeks!

On Monday, June 6th, Cory and I took what should be our last trip to see Dr. Greig.  This visit's intent was to check, through another level II ultrasound, that Cocks is growing properly in order to understand if the tear impacted his ability to get the nutrients necessary for his growth and survival.  Turns out, he's thriving and jiving at around the 86th percentile for overall size.  His length threw the average, but even so, Dr. Greig warned against gestational diabetes.  There's also some extra fluid, another possible GD indicator, so we left the office officially released from the high risk consultant's care but anxious about Tuesday's regular OB visit where I would also take my glucose tolerance test.  Seriously, how do you manage diabetes when you are under orders to live a sedentary lifestyle?

Look at our sweet baby boy!  He gave us a perfect profile shot.

Here he is all snuggled up against his placenta pillow on the left and with his arm up beside his face:

Henry liked going through the ultrasound photos and actually paid close attention as I clicked through each one.  I finally broke down a few days ago and quit calling my uterus "a thing that is like a balloon inside my belly" and called it a uterus. So, when we were looking at the pictures, he said, "He's in your uterus."  

On Tuesday afternoon, I guzzled my fruit punch flavored glucose then had blood drawn.  Dr. Keith didn't seem too worried about the fluid or Cocks's measurements since, as she explained it, bed rest can mean that he is getting an extra large dose of blood and nutrients. I'm not really using a whole lot of the stuff for myself.  Still, we were anxious to find out if I could eat some 8th anniversary dessert.  She said, "I would." 

Today, finally, they called with the blood work result.  I am diabetes free!  Yea!  

Despite passing the test, though, I'm going to be more diligent about my diet.  I'll limit the indulgences.  And for those of you out there with whom I placed orders for Sour Power Belts, just scratch it.  I'll take fresh fruit, instead.  

As for Cocks's growth?  We are so proud of our trooper.  He's an amazing boy.  Go Cocks!

Geographical Tongue

A recent conversation with Kayce regarding Greek yogurt led me to research my tongue's condition in which it reacts very strongly to warm drinks, acidic foods, some spicy foods, and some random food and drink combinations.  Oh, and if I singe my tongue on coffee (I love super strong, black, highly acidic coffee.), then it's all over.  A dental hygienist named it for me once when the specks off the teeth cleaning material were landing on my tongue, and it immediately started getting its little bumps and swirls.

I thought she said it was a "Universal Tongue."  And, I swear that she said it was called "universal," because the condition makes the surface of my tongue look like a solar system, complete with little stars and planets.

I wasn't under any anesthesia.

It turns out that a universal tongue is the idea of a shared language.

However, I landed on the proper tongue name, and I know, on some small scale, how some of my clients feel when they finally get the correct diagnosis for their condition.  Hallelujah!  Knowledge sets you free!

Click here for Geographical Tongue's definition and symptoms.  Surely, others need to know.

It also helps explain why frozen, fruity cocktails have long been off the menu for me.  No matter how tasty, the itchy, painful spots are not worth it.  I won't part with my spicy, acidic food, though.  Or super strong black coffee.  I'll dance with the geographic devil for those things.

Eight Years, Baby

When I think of the number eight

I reflect on years that are more than just great

We knew when we said "I do"

That our fates were sealed with super glue

Although we often misplace that little yellow tube

Probably in our junk drawer with a random bouillon cube

You make the most delicious meals

Your culinary talents you continue to reveal

It's just one way that you take such good care of us

Despite the heavy workload, you never fuss

Should I pass my glucose tolerance test this afternoon

Let's eat something sweet then, tonight, let's relax and spoon

There are days when it might not seem clear

But you are my first priority all through the years

Even when the dog and kids take hold of the hour

It's you who I want to devour 

To think, we might not have had a date

Were it not for our fantastic roommates

Life is peppered with decisions both good and bad

My decision to link up with you makes me the most glad

And you know, baby, I got your back

Laughs, love, and trust we will never lack

Now, to help ensure many more years to partake 

A dermatologist appointment you must make

I love you, baby, no matter where

No matter when, no matter how

Reunited

Cory and Henry took a quick road trip on Saturday to reunite with the Johnson family for a few hours.  As I hear it, Henry quickly took over as the lunch emcee and was successful at entertaining both immediate and extended family.  There is truly nothing that Henry enjoys more than a fresh audience.

Here, uncles, aunt, Granddad, and Nana pose for an "inner peace" photo.  I also hear tale that Nana was poised to facilitate the domino effect.

Joel met his speed match, as do we all.  Our boy does not like to be last!

Missed you all but so glad that our family got a chance to spend some time with this funny kid.

Freshman Week

As Henry and Daddy are on their way to school this morning for Henry's first full week of College CDC, I thought it would be appropriate to catch you up on how the first week went.

May 30, Day 1:  Orientation day--Henry spent a couple of hours playing outside and in the classroom while Daddy and I met with the teacher and the director.  It seems that our reputation precedes us as the director asked, "Now, you are coming from the yW?"  And, then, after our affirmation, "Yes... I know all about that.  I am on the board."  Later, as we covered who to speak with if issues should come up, she said, "And, clearly, you already know who to speak with to address issues."  Ha!  At least they are aware of who they are dealing with when it comes to our son.

May 31, Day 2:  First Full Day--There will be no bragging about how the morning went.  Daddy forgot to put Henry's nap blankets in the dryer.  I happened to think of it as I groggily woke up and heard the boys doing the teeth brushing part of getting ready.  Blankets were thrown in the dryer, and then we remembered to put H's sunscreen on.  We were rushed.  I fussed at Daddy.  Henry said, "Mama, you fussed at Daddy.  Maybe we should just go."  Then his face crumbled when we explained that only Daddy would be taking him.  "But I'll miss you!"  We didn't handle this morning well.  Shame.  Then, no nap.  Mr. Cranky Pants returned home with Daddy that afternoon.  He did eventually tell us that they played "Old Man" at group time, which, as it turns out, entails singing "This Old Man" with some fun pantomimes.

June 1, Day 3:  What a relief!  H did great in the morning, and so did we.  We even had some play time to utilize a few extra(!) minutes before the boys left the house.  I think that I was more helpful and less harmful on this morning.  Also, he took a nap--a huge deal for our boy.  He had lots of things to tell us when he returned home, and he is remembering his new friends' names.  He also ate Chicken Alfredo for lunch.  We like hearing him talk about Chicken Alfredo, and we love not fixing his lunch!

Henry is slowly taking charge of Penny's breakfast.  It's a big responsibility since we can't feed her until she calms down, and she has to wait for him to say, "OK."

Cute!

June 2, Day 4:  Another successful morning with some play time alloted since he did so well.  I cannot tell you how proud I am of his independence in the midst of this change.  He dresses himself, although it takes lots of reminders to stay focused since he is always, always compelled to talk and entertain.  He took a nap!  He brought home some artwork and told us a few more things about his new school, including his excitement about playing with the marble tower.  He loves it.  He did not eat his hummus.

Reading time in the morning?  Unreal!

Early morning train play followed by compliance when time to leave.  

June 3, Day 5:  The morning went very well again, and we were feeling pretty confident, too.  So far, if we stick to both encouraging Henry as opposed to snapping about other stuff with each other, Henry does quite well.  Imagine.  Duh?  He asked Daddy to stay with him for a little while when they got to the classroom, Daddy obliged, and Henry showed him his fairly complex morning routine.  Then he showed Daddy the beloved marble tower.  No nap this time, though, so he came back pretty cranky.  When he is especially cranky, it's best to let him do the talking without us inquiring about his day.  

H puts on his shoes by himself.

Penny waits in anticipation of him feeding her... calmly.  

Yep.  We were worried over, well, nothing.  Of course Henry will do well at his new school!  We're not kidding ourselves, though.  The excitement will wear off soon enough, and it's quite possible that H will hit a wall.  At least, though, we are doing quite well for now.

Out with a bang! (Who shot ya?)

Last Friday, May 27th, Henry's yW teachers and classmates gave the boy a going away party for his last day at his old school.  We contributed cookies and water guns to the ice cream party.  Yes, we were the parents who brought guns to school.  Inappropriate?  Perhaps.  Inexpensive?  Totally.

Special guest (Mrs. Hannah's little girl) in the line of fire

Rambo?  Or Tupac?  

Henry has good friends at the yW, and Cory and I are going to miss them, too.  Although some friends were newer, this group has been together for a long time.

Girl on the left is one of the sweetest you will ever meet.

V always seemed to have a special place in her heart for H, and we think she's hilarious--especially when you give her some Kool Aid.  Watch out!

About a year ago, H had a hard time leaving school in the afternoon.  S used to push him out the door for me.  I am forever grateful.

Why, you may ask, does Henry sport swim attire to school?  Well, despite the downpours, Daddy and I held firm to the belief that Water Play Day would happen (hence the true reason for the water gun favors), but the thunder, lightening, and cool'ish temps kept the class indoors.  Since his trunks and rash guard never got wet, he just opted to wear them all day.  He was the only one.  

Here's something else we are going to miss about H's class... the quote wall.  Daddy took a picture of this one from last summer.  I think he felt honored.    

Mrs. Hannah and Ms. Nicole made it clear that they want H to stay in touch, and it's the plan.

See you later!

33

Thirty-three is pretty good, and I am basing it on May 30th's food and company.

Daddy took Henry and me to see Kung Fun Panda II at the Simpsonville movie theater.  This new theater has very close parking and easily accessible theaters.  Here's Henry doing his best inner peace stance.

Later, while I sat outside and sprayed Henry with the water hose, my birthday meal was made by the best and most handsome cook I know--radishes, tofu, and noodles.  I can't remember what this dish is actually named, but we just refer to it as "radishes."  It is remarkably good.

For dessert, sour cream pound cake, sour cream ice cream, and fresh blackberries:

Ending the evening with story time in the green chair where H squeezed in beside me.  Baby Cocks and I (and my expanding back side) take up quite a lot of room in the chair now, so it meant a lot that Henry stayed in there with me.  

Perfect way to start out my 33rd year.