Beach Bug
So, we are staying home for the 4th. We are all working on Monday. Grrr. Normally we would go to the beach. Harry must have picked up on this, because he has been packing and planning for the past 3 days! He packs a bag and some toys, hops in the car and heads "to the beach." If he has a friend with him, Renee for instance, he even passes snacks back to her. Wow. I really need to stop cursing in the car and eating french fries, and instead start helping Harry pack for OBX!
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
CONGRATS TO MEG & IAN!!!
So I get this call from Harry's Aunt Meghan yesterday morning, that immediately jumps to the chase…
"How do you feel about a new brother-in-law?"
WOO HOO!!!!
They both claim that this is a blatant obligation for her to come back from China (she was on her way to the airport when we spoke), but hopefully it's a bit more than just that…
Congratulations to you both!
So I get this call from Harry's Aunt Meghan yesterday morning, that immediately jumps to the chase…
"How do you feel about a new brother-in-law?"
WOO HOO!!!!
They both claim that this is a blatant obligation for her to come back from China (she was on her way to the airport when we spoke), but hopefully it's a bit more than just that…
Congratulations to you both!
Friday, June 23, 2006
Boy Genius
At teh tender age of 26 months old, Master Harrison can write his own name! I kid you not. He is very proud of this. He says "My name" and, it is chicken scratch of course, but he puts it in the right spot and it takes up the right amount of space. He is very careful when writing it. WHen aske dif this is just his first name or his whole name he will tell you "First Name." Amazing.
At teh tender age of 26 months old, Master Harrison can write his own name! I kid you not. He is very proud of this. He says "My name" and, it is chicken scratch of course, but he puts it in the right spot and it takes up the right amount of space. He is very careful when writing it. WHen aske dif this is just his first name or his whole name he will tell you "First Name." Amazing.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
My Little Genius
While perusing the book store yesterday for a Mickey Mouse book (would you believe there are NONE? As in, NONE?) I came across a selection of books labelled by age. In the 3-5 category, I came across 2 of Harry's favorite books: Hooray for Harry and Fox Makes Friends. Harry love sthese books. In Hooray for Harry, he notes "No blankie!" and soon follows it up with "Outside!" which is proof to me that he follows the story line. In Fox Makes Friends Harry is very focused on the Mommy Fox, but he also notes that the friend fox makes is not big. I think it is wonderful if Harry is at a 3 year old "reading level" but I al so suspect that most age labels are inaccurate. By teh tiem Harry and most of his freinds catch up to teh age of something, he is long bored with it (think Baby Einstein).
Back to books, Harry still likes Good Night Moon and also Brown Bear . When he sees teh kids at the end of Brown Bear, he asks where Harry is. He is looking at the animals, too, so surely he must be there. Without fail, he always chooses teh little dark skinned boy with the afro to be him. Mommy and Daddy get to be two of the kids, usually Lance, and last night "Lance's Mommy" was a little yellow haired boy. Obviously the child thinks outside of the box. After all of his books, Harry says "The End."
While perusing the book store yesterday for a Mickey Mouse book (would you believe there are NONE? As in, NONE?) I came across a selection of books labelled by age. In the 3-5 category, I came across 2 of Harry's favorite books: Hooray for Harry and Fox Makes Friends. Harry love sthese books. In Hooray for Harry, he notes "No blankie!" and soon follows it up with "Outside!" which is proof to me that he follows the story line. In Fox Makes Friends Harry is very focused on the Mommy Fox, but he also notes that the friend fox makes is not big. I think it is wonderful if Harry is at a 3 year old "reading level" but I al so suspect that most age labels are inaccurate. By teh tiem Harry and most of his freinds catch up to teh age of something, he is long bored with it (think Baby Einstein).
Back to books, Harry still likes Good Night Moon and also Brown Bear . When he sees teh kids at the end of Brown Bear, he asks where Harry is. He is looking at the animals, too, so surely he must be there. Without fail, he always chooses teh little dark skinned boy with the afro to be him. Mommy and Daddy get to be two of the kids, usually Lance, and last night "Lance's Mommy" was a little yellow haired boy. Obviously the child thinks outside of the box. After all of his books, Harry says "The End."
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
I thought there'd be more time....
When most other parents of 2 year olds, and some older kids, seem to be blogging about how they can't get their kids to sleep...well, we did that. And now we are beyond it. Now, I feel like we are at what I guess is the 5-8 year old level, where the child gets in bed, etc. but then launches a litany of questions at you. Harry says "nigh nigh" but as the door closes he questions "Mommy?" followed by some very calm and well thought out questions...though I am at a loss as to what most of them are about. They tend to long winded. There is a cute little smile attached. A request for another book, which instead of reading to him I leave in his crib. He reads to Baby. Then he sings. Then he suggests his ears hurt. Then his eyes (Duh! It's an hour past bedtime! My eyes hurt, too!). Then he wants to know if I am working. Then he asks about the pool, and Lance, and pauses to think of some others. And yet, I find it all amazing! This is a conscious process for him. He pulls out all kinds of stuff. Eventually he nods off. Sometimes, if the windows are open, thunder or a motorcycle may wake him. "Too loud!" he will say, but he drifts off again. Before you know it, it is morning. He is standing in his crib with Baby, Snoedel and Blankie all wrapped up (not an easy task). I am rewarded with a "DORA-MIMO!". I'l take it!
When most other parents of 2 year olds, and some older kids, seem to be blogging about how they can't get their kids to sleep...well, we did that. And now we are beyond it. Now, I feel like we are at what I guess is the 5-8 year old level, where the child gets in bed, etc. but then launches a litany of questions at you. Harry says "nigh nigh" but as the door closes he questions "Mommy?" followed by some very calm and well thought out questions...though I am at a loss as to what most of them are about. They tend to long winded. There is a cute little smile attached. A request for another book, which instead of reading to him I leave in his crib. He reads to Baby. Then he sings. Then he suggests his ears hurt. Then his eyes (Duh! It's an hour past bedtime! My eyes hurt, too!). Then he wants to know if I am working. Then he asks about the pool, and Lance, and pauses to think of some others. And yet, I find it all amazing! This is a conscious process for him. He pulls out all kinds of stuff. Eventually he nods off. Sometimes, if the windows are open, thunder or a motorcycle may wake him. "Too loud!" he will say, but he drifts off again. Before you know it, it is morning. He is standing in his crib with Baby, Snoedel and Blankie all wrapped up (not an easy task). I am rewarded with a "DORA-MIMO!". I'l take it!
Monday, June 19, 2006
In a Turtle House
Looks like Kevin beat me to the punch in his blog about our Terp hunt, but I spent my AM hours documenting Harry's life, so I am going to post it! Glad he added all of the cool links I was too lazy to look up though! Oh, and I am up in Boston, where I've been hearing the other side of the Len Bias story. Freaky!
Anyway, here is what I wrote:
At the end of a 95 degree Terp hunt through College Park, followed by a car tour of our old abodes, Harry states the following: Mee Live In Turtle House. As in, I want to live in one olf these college houses. How cute is he? College bound at age 2!
Though yet to donate much to our alma mater, we still somehow receive the Terp alumni magazine. This month (as Kevin already explained) it featured 50 Fear the Turtle statues depicting everything from Kermit the Frog (Kertle) to LAX Terp to a tuxedo clad Testudo. I thought it might be fun to go on a turtle hunt around campus, let Harry run across the mall, up stairs – that sort of thing. Kevin decided that is what he wanted to do for Father’s Day. We had fun. While Harry was initially a little bit worried by the idea of 6 foot statues and has been pre-occupied lately with everything from Swiper to Big Bird eating him, he soon mellowed to the idea and set out chasing them across campus. It helped that they were more like 4 feet tall.
Harry also received a personal tour of Cole Field House, had a photo op by the big floral M, rubbed Testudo’s nose and danced around on the sun dial.
Since it was, indeed, 95 degrees, we didn’t last too long and only captured about 15 of the said turtles. We headed home and hit the pool (after the nudie sprinkler dance, of course).
The pool. One of Harry’s favorite places to be. Of course, he is completely oblivious to the fact that he cannot swim. He slides off the side, jumps in cannonball style, Nestea plunges…He has no fear whatsoever. Luckily, I think he may start swimming soon. Yes, I know he is not 4 but I swam before I was 4 and so do a lot of other kids. Harry likes to put his face in the water. He can even lay flat in the water and lift his head up after a few seconds. I am going to keep at it, and also work on directing his arm motions and leg kicks. He may have been 1 before he walked, and he’s still not reading books on his own (though he does take a few to bed with him) but he is definitely swimming! I just hope nothing traumatizes him during this process. That would SUCK!
I have been busy with work lately so I have been lagging behind other updates. We’ve also been busy with leisure activities. Harry went to Sesame Place last week with Dominic, Isabella, a little boy named Joseph whose mom works with my dad and a whole slew of mini-Deckers. Harry's favorite part of teh day was hanging out with Dominic and his least favorite part was Oscar.
“Big Bird No Eat Me!” was the phrase of the day. It has a range from almost panic to matter-of-fact. Harry was okay with the monsters generally existing, he just didn’t want to be up close and personal. Instead, we hung out in the wave pool and floated on the lazy river, which Harry fully volunteered was "A River."
The weekend before we went to a birthday party at Frying Pan Park for Ashton’s 2nd birthday. He is a friend from The Little Gym. Alana from gym was also there. Harry had fun running with balloons, helping open gifts, and enjoying a big wagon ride where he sat calmly with his hands clasped. He is still very much into transportation. He also liked the piggies on the farm.
Harry also enjoyed his flight to Chicago (flight there, not back!). He hung out with Grandma Patty and enjoyed playing with Grandpa Les’s toy cars. He wheeled a little wooden train all over the house. And he played tag (or something!) with “MEG-GIN!” I was able to see some friends and check out the King Tut exhibit at the Field museum while Harry hit the zoo with family. We met up again by “The Bean” and enjoyed the rest of the weekend together. We waited for Kevin's mom to get her car so we could follow her. When we told Harry we were waiting for her so we could follow her because we didn't know where we were going, he suggested "A Map!"
Oh- and Menike is back! Harry still prefers “No work!” but he is once again in very capable hands…and eating a range of wholesome foods!
P.S. Was on the phone and also watching Failure to Launch when I editted this. It may be chaotic but such is life. Anyway, the movie...looks liek you can be a great parent. So great your kids never leave home. Hmmmm. Something to think about.
Looks like Kevin beat me to the punch in his blog about our Terp hunt, but I spent my AM hours documenting Harry's life, so I am going to post it! Glad he added all of the cool links I was too lazy to look up though! Oh, and I am up in Boston, where I've been hearing the other side of the Len Bias story. Freaky!
Anyway, here is what I wrote:
At the end of a 95 degree Terp hunt through College Park, followed by a car tour of our old abodes, Harry states the following: Mee Live In Turtle House. As in, I want to live in one olf these college houses. How cute is he? College bound at age 2!
Though yet to donate much to our alma mater, we still somehow receive the Terp alumni magazine. This month (as Kevin already explained) it featured 50 Fear the Turtle statues depicting everything from Kermit the Frog (Kertle) to LAX Terp to a tuxedo clad Testudo. I thought it might be fun to go on a turtle hunt around campus, let Harry run across the mall, up stairs – that sort of thing. Kevin decided that is what he wanted to do for Father’s Day. We had fun. While Harry was initially a little bit worried by the idea of 6 foot statues and has been pre-occupied lately with everything from Swiper to Big Bird eating him, he soon mellowed to the idea and set out chasing them across campus. It helped that they were more like 4 feet tall.
Harry also received a personal tour of Cole Field House, had a photo op by the big floral M, rubbed Testudo’s nose and danced around on the sun dial.
Since it was, indeed, 95 degrees, we didn’t last too long and only captured about 15 of the said turtles. We headed home and hit the pool (after the nudie sprinkler dance, of course).
The pool. One of Harry’s favorite places to be. Of course, he is completely oblivious to the fact that he cannot swim. He slides off the side, jumps in cannonball style, Nestea plunges…He has no fear whatsoever. Luckily, I think he may start swimming soon. Yes, I know he is not 4 but I swam before I was 4 and so do a lot of other kids. Harry likes to put his face in the water. He can even lay flat in the water and lift his head up after a few seconds. I am going to keep at it, and also work on directing his arm motions and leg kicks. He may have been 1 before he walked, and he’s still not reading books on his own (though he does take a few to bed with him) but he is definitely swimming! I just hope nothing traumatizes him during this process. That would SUCK!
I have been busy with work lately so I have been lagging behind other updates. We’ve also been busy with leisure activities. Harry went to Sesame Place last week with Dominic, Isabella, a little boy named Joseph whose mom works with my dad and a whole slew of mini-Deckers. Harry's favorite part of teh day was hanging out with Dominic and his least favorite part was Oscar.
“Big Bird No Eat Me!” was the phrase of the day. It has a range from almost panic to matter-of-fact. Harry was okay with the monsters generally existing, he just didn’t want to be up close and personal. Instead, we hung out in the wave pool and floated on the lazy river, which Harry fully volunteered was "A River."
The weekend before we went to a birthday party at Frying Pan Park for Ashton’s 2nd birthday. He is a friend from The Little Gym. Alana from gym was also there. Harry had fun running with balloons, helping open gifts, and enjoying a big wagon ride where he sat calmly with his hands clasped. He is still very much into transportation. He also liked the piggies on the farm.
Harry also enjoyed his flight to Chicago (flight there, not back!). He hung out with Grandma Patty and enjoyed playing with Grandpa Les’s toy cars. He wheeled a little wooden train all over the house. And he played tag (or something!) with “MEG-GIN!” I was able to see some friends and check out the King Tut exhibit at the Field museum while Harry hit the zoo with family. We met up again by “The Bean” and enjoyed the rest of the weekend together. We waited for Kevin's mom to get her car so we could follow her. When we told Harry we were waiting for her so we could follow her because we didn't know where we were going, he suggested "A Map!"
Oh- and Menike is back! Harry still prefers “No work!” but he is once again in very capable hands…and eating a range of wholesome foods!
P.S. Was on the phone and also watching Failure to Launch when I editted this. It may be chaotic but such is life. Anyway, the movie...looks liek you can be a great parent. So great your kids never leave home. Hmmmm. Something to think about.
Going on a Terp hunt!
Bleated Happy Father's Day to the newest members of the ranks, as well as to those of you who've been doing this for as long as you can remember (or perhaps even longer).
For our outing this year, compliments of the University of Maryland Alumni magazine TERP, we found out that there are about 50 Fear the Turtle statues all over the College Park area, and even more all over the state. We decided that it'd be fun for Harry to see how many he could find, and at the same time give him his first tour of our campus.
We started off in venerable Cole Field House. Ironic perhaps, that the first Terp to write about was the Basketball Legends one outside of Cole, and writing about it on the 20th anniversary of Len Bias' death… didn't know that yesterday, so hopefully not too morbid. Luckily we managed to find an open door to Cole (prominently marked outside "Closed Saturdays & Sundays"), the wows began while we were still in the lobby… not even the main one, just the student entrance by the pool!
When we got inside, it was amazing. Of course there's an Astroturf floor now replacing the old hardwood (something about a new building sponsored by a cable TV outfit), but it still looked, smelled and felt like the gym I knew and loved. We took a walk down to where I used to make a fool of myself with the guys with our face paint & red wigs… walked around in the seats, and then half a lap around the concourse back to Mommy upstairs. It was nice that we went here first. Harry seemed to appreciate it… you could see it in his eyes.
We then hit several other landmarks around campus, I waxed poetic about what used to be here, and that this used to be a that (especially in the Student Union), Harry sat in the M for his portrait while drivers-by giggled and waved. Saw a wedding party shooting candid's on the steps of the Administration building, ran around the fountains on the mall, and generally realized how long it had been since we'd been there on a regular basis (also noting that the LAST time we were there was for our engagement photos!?!?!).
All of the heat and sun and running eventually had their way, and Harry fell asleep in his stroller. Perfect time for a walk down to Route 1 only to find that only a few of the establishments remain. After a quick lunch, we came back around thru the new South Campus. However, right in the middle of it all, remains the old South Campus Surge building (now Susquehanna Hall), with my "KPMCD" still written in the concrete.
We made it back in to the car, took one last spin around campus, past several previous residences, including 4803 Norwich… the "scene of the crime."
Back home to a few nekkid runs though the sprinkler for Harry, and then we decided it was time for a proper trip to the pool. Case in point that Harry's absolute non-fear of the water continues… he loves going under (especially when he's supposed to be sitting on the side for "adult swim"), loves putting his face in the water, and even more so, watching others go under, only to come back up on the other side of the pool! But as soon as it started, he was ready to leave. No need to drag things out.
Dinner on the patio, and soapy escapade of sponge-cleaning his new picnic table, and Harry was off to bed.
A great family outing day, perfect for Father's day!
Bleated Happy Father's Day to the newest members of the ranks, as well as to those of you who've been doing this for as long as you can remember (or perhaps even longer).
For our outing this year, compliments of the University of Maryland Alumni magazine TERP, we found out that there are about 50 Fear the Turtle statues all over the College Park area, and even more all over the state. We decided that it'd be fun for Harry to see how many he could find, and at the same time give him his first tour of our campus.
We started off in venerable Cole Field House. Ironic perhaps, that the first Terp to write about was the Basketball Legends one outside of Cole, and writing about it on the 20th anniversary of Len Bias' death… didn't know that yesterday, so hopefully not too morbid. Luckily we managed to find an open door to Cole (prominently marked outside "Closed Saturdays & Sundays"), the wows began while we were still in the lobby… not even the main one, just the student entrance by the pool!
When we got inside, it was amazing. Of course there's an Astroturf floor now replacing the old hardwood (something about a new building sponsored by a cable TV outfit), but it still looked, smelled and felt like the gym I knew and loved. We took a walk down to where I used to make a fool of myself with the guys with our face paint & red wigs… walked around in the seats, and then half a lap around the concourse back to Mommy upstairs. It was nice that we went here first. Harry seemed to appreciate it… you could see it in his eyes.
We then hit several other landmarks around campus, I waxed poetic about what used to be here, and that this used to be a that (especially in the Student Union), Harry sat in the M for his portrait while drivers-by giggled and waved. Saw a wedding party shooting candid's on the steps of the Administration building, ran around the fountains on the mall, and generally realized how long it had been since we'd been there on a regular basis (also noting that the LAST time we were there was for our engagement photos!?!?!).
All of the heat and sun and running eventually had their way, and Harry fell asleep in his stroller. Perfect time for a walk down to Route 1 only to find that only a few of the establishments remain. After a quick lunch, we came back around thru the new South Campus. However, right in the middle of it all, remains the old South Campus Surge building (now Susquehanna Hall), with my "KPMCD" still written in the concrete.
We made it back in to the car, took one last spin around campus, past several previous residences, including 4803 Norwich… the "scene of the crime."
Back home to a few nekkid runs though the sprinkler for Harry, and then we decided it was time for a proper trip to the pool. Case in point that Harry's absolute non-fear of the water continues… he loves going under (especially when he's supposed to be sitting on the side for "adult swim"), loves putting his face in the water, and even more so, watching others go under, only to come back up on the other side of the pool! But as soon as it started, he was ready to leave. No need to drag things out.
Dinner on the patio, and soapy escapade of sponge-cleaning his new picnic table, and Harry was off to bed.
A great family outing day, perfect for Father's day!
Friday, June 16, 2006
When we last left Harry...
He was seated on the sofa in his dark green race car pajamas, Snoedel on his lap, Sippy Cup in one hand and his Elmo balloon in the other. Elmo visor on his head. Dora on TV. His only words as I left the house at 5:40 AM this morning, locking the door behind me, were "No window." Nope. No anxiety about my going to work today. I prefer it that way.
-Kim. 6/15/06
P.S. Kevin was upstairs taking a 2 minute shower.
He was seated on the sofa in his dark green race car pajamas, Snoedel on his lap, Sippy Cup in one hand and his Elmo balloon in the other. Elmo visor on his head. Dora on TV. His only words as I left the house at 5:40 AM this morning, locking the door behind me, were "No window." Nope. No anxiety about my going to work today. I prefer it that way.
-Kim. 6/15/06
P.S. Kevin was upstairs taking a 2 minute shower.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Bert-day to you. Bert-day to you.
Instead of Here Comes the Bride, the tune I hear most frequently these days is Happy Birthday To You. I’m not complaining, really. I just find it interesting.I realized the other day that this is the first year in the past 15 that I don’t have 1 single wedding to attend – at least none that I am aware of this late in the game. There were some years that we woudl attend 3 weddings in one weekend. 1 day we attended two weddings in two different states...and I was in one of them! But now they seem to have been replaced.What I have now is a schedule full of toddler birthdays and birth announcements. They are fun. A social outlet, at least. I do miss cake that doesn’t turn my teeth dark green (Ninja Turtles) and sitting down to enjoy a meal. And dancing with my husband. But bouncing around the room with my toddler can be a blast...and don't you kind of wish everyone still lit up at the site of a balloon? It would make business meetings a whole lot more interesting!
Instead of Here Comes the Bride, the tune I hear most frequently these days is Happy Birthday To You. I’m not complaining, really. I just find it interesting.I realized the other day that this is the first year in the past 15 that I don’t have 1 single wedding to attend – at least none that I am aware of this late in the game. There were some years that we woudl attend 3 weddings in one weekend. 1 day we attended two weddings in two different states...and I was in one of them! But now they seem to have been replaced.What I have now is a schedule full of toddler birthdays and birth announcements. They are fun. A social outlet, at least. I do miss cake that doesn’t turn my teeth dark green (Ninja Turtles) and sitting down to enjoy a meal. And dancing with my husband. But bouncing around the room with my toddler can be a blast...and don't you kind of wish everyone still lit up at the site of a balloon? It would make business meetings a whole lot more interesting!
Why is it that everyone else seems to know what is and isn't okay for your child, regardless of what you, as daily parent of said child, tell them?
For example… Harry gets up every morning between 5:55 and 6:20. Regardless of what time he goes to bed, that's when he gets up. Regardless of what day of the week, that's when he gets up. Only time this may change is a) travel to a different time zone (evidenced 2 weeks ago on his maiden voyage to Grandma Patty's in Chicago), or b) due to the ever-popular adjustment for Daylight Savings.
Something Kim and I know for a fact doesn't change his wakeup time, is his bedtime. If he goes to bed at 7:30 or 10:30, he's going to wake up around 6. There's really no debate to this. However, direct effect of adjusting bedtime obviously, is quantity of sleep (you can do the math at home). Normal bedtime is around 7:30. Therefore, Harry goes to bed at 7:30, and gets up around 6.
This is a fact of life for us and not up for negotiation… from our perspective. From other's perspective, it seems perfectly legitimate to keep him up until he literally starts into a typical 2YO tirade, at which point he's typically handed back to one of us, and it's duly pointed out that "he must be getting tired." Getting??? It's 11 o'clock!?!?!
For future reference, if you don't have kids yet, or yours are beyond the age of your immediate supervision, take the parents' word for it… bedtime is bedtime for a good reason… COLLECTIVE SANITY.
Another example… Harry's very much a creature of habit (some might note that it's to a fault, but it's early - we may be able to overcome that). When we travel, whether it's to daycare in the morning, or a taxi ride to the airport, everyone has their place to be and job to do. Daycare: always go in Daddy's car, he drives, Mommy waves from the window. Very cut & dry. Gym Class: Mommy drives her car, Daddy drinks coffee in the front seat. Again, not up for negotiation. Deviate from this, and suffer the consequences. That said, a daytrip in someone else's car whilst Mommy & Daddy are at work, not a very good idea. He will be the first to let you know that it doesn't work that way. Trust us.
Another example… Being such a creature of habit, there are plenty of things that he's perfectly content with doing. Matchbox cars. Blocks. Play-doh. Dora the Explorer reruns. Thomas the Train table. Simple pleasures that will keep him happily occupied for hours. Harry's already got quite the burgeoning imagination. He's very good at solitary play, as well as playing with others. Therefore, running all over to see all kinds of things isn't really necessary. The Bear exhibit at the zoo for 45 minutes is perfectly acceptable… sure there's an entire zoo to explore, but these bears are really cool, and look there's a tunnel to crawl through (another 20 minutes down). Mind you, this is one that I'm certainly guilty of, but remember, he's 2. Less is more.
While we certainly aren't the end-all of do-good parents, though sometimes we may espouse to be, please take these and other recommendations under advisement when in Harry's company. Of course friends & relatives want to be the ones having all the fun, and bringing said fun to Harry's attention, and we're hardly wet blankets (okay… maybe I am, but Kim certainly isn't), but its all for the greater good. Our own sanity, Harry's well-being, and just as importantly, for you to be able to enjoy your time with him, while minimizing the 2YO tirades.
For example… Harry gets up every morning between 5:55 and 6:20. Regardless of what time he goes to bed, that's when he gets up. Regardless of what day of the week, that's when he gets up. Only time this may change is a) travel to a different time zone (evidenced 2 weeks ago on his maiden voyage to Grandma Patty's in Chicago), or b) due to the ever-popular adjustment for Daylight Savings.
Something Kim and I know for a fact doesn't change his wakeup time, is his bedtime. If he goes to bed at 7:30 or 10:30, he's going to wake up around 6. There's really no debate to this. However, direct effect of adjusting bedtime obviously, is quantity of sleep (you can do the math at home). Normal bedtime is around 7:30. Therefore, Harry goes to bed at 7:30, and gets up around 6.
This is a fact of life for us and not up for negotiation… from our perspective. From other's perspective, it seems perfectly legitimate to keep him up until he literally starts into a typical 2YO tirade, at which point he's typically handed back to one of us, and it's duly pointed out that "he must be getting tired." Getting??? It's 11 o'clock!?!?!
For future reference, if you don't have kids yet, or yours are beyond the age of your immediate supervision, take the parents' word for it… bedtime is bedtime for a good reason… COLLECTIVE SANITY.
Another example… Harry's very much a creature of habit (some might note that it's to a fault, but it's early - we may be able to overcome that). When we travel, whether it's to daycare in the morning, or a taxi ride to the airport, everyone has their place to be and job to do. Daycare: always go in Daddy's car, he drives, Mommy waves from the window. Very cut & dry. Gym Class: Mommy drives her car, Daddy drinks coffee in the front seat. Again, not up for negotiation. Deviate from this, and suffer the consequences. That said, a daytrip in someone else's car whilst Mommy & Daddy are at work, not a very good idea. He will be the first to let you know that it doesn't work that way. Trust us.
Another example… Being such a creature of habit, there are plenty of things that he's perfectly content with doing. Matchbox cars. Blocks. Play-doh. Dora the Explorer reruns. Thomas the Train table. Simple pleasures that will keep him happily occupied for hours. Harry's already got quite the burgeoning imagination. He's very good at solitary play, as well as playing with others. Therefore, running all over to see all kinds of things isn't really necessary. The Bear exhibit at the zoo for 45 minutes is perfectly acceptable… sure there's an entire zoo to explore, but these bears are really cool, and look there's a tunnel to crawl through (another 20 minutes down). Mind you, this is one that I'm certainly guilty of, but remember, he's 2. Less is more.
While we certainly aren't the end-all of do-good parents, though sometimes we may espouse to be, please take these and other recommendations under advisement when in Harry's company. Of course friends & relatives want to be the ones having all the fun, and bringing said fun to Harry's attention, and we're hardly wet blankets (okay… maybe I am, but Kim certainly isn't), but its all for the greater good. Our own sanity, Harry's well-being, and just as importantly, for you to be able to enjoy your time with him, while minimizing the 2YO tirades.
138 pics
No, not of Harry, but of Ella Grace. Congratulations Greg & Barbara! And Missy & Todd on their new baby boy (who we have not seen picture sof yet and it's been about 3 days already!). I also had a happy email from another friend, Donna, who was just offered a well-deserved new job and recently T. was as well. After some family stress, it is so wonderful to have so many happy photos and happy emails to come home to!
No, not of Harry, but of Ella Grace. Congratulations Greg & Barbara! And Missy & Todd on their new baby boy (who we have not seen picture sof yet and it's been about 3 days already!). I also had a happy email from another friend, Donna, who was just offered a well-deserved new job and recently T. was as well. After some family stress, it is so wonderful to have so many happy photos and happy emails to come home to!
Friday, June 09, 2006
Sick Sucks.
Apparently Harry and I got sick within about 15 minutes of each other yesterday. As I was in the men's room at work haveing a subtle converation with the porcelain fellow in the corner, my phone rang... daycare. Crap. Harry has a fever and just got sick all over the place... he's sleeping on the couch now.
Wouldn't I love to be sleeping on the couch... long story short, we both made our respective ways home yesterday, Harry after Kim turning around in the midst of a work visit to Baltimore, myself at the hands of an overly helpful co-worker, only to spend the rest of the day on said couch.
Harry has bounced back to his normal self, however I still feel like I got hit by Thomas the Tank Engine.
Trying to keep him occupied whilst still in the throes of nauseaous grog is a bit of a challenge.
Ah... Fridays.
Apparently Harry and I got sick within about 15 minutes of each other yesterday. As I was in the men's room at work haveing a subtle converation with the porcelain fellow in the corner, my phone rang... daycare. Crap. Harry has a fever and just got sick all over the place... he's sleeping on the couch now.
Wouldn't I love to be sleeping on the couch... long story short, we both made our respective ways home yesterday, Harry after Kim turning around in the midst of a work visit to Baltimore, myself at the hands of an overly helpful co-worker, only to spend the rest of the day on said couch.
Harry has bounced back to his normal self, however I still feel like I got hit by Thomas the Tank Engine.
Trying to keep him occupied whilst still in the throes of nauseaous grog is a bit of a challenge.
Ah... Fridays.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Ups & Downs
He may not be as big as he would like (struggles of late have been about who gets to drive) but I think it is safe to say Harry is officially a big kid. This kid has wanted to be big since he was born, and 2 year molars, scabby feet, a bottle of Motrin and some sun block in his eyes are not going to deter him from swimming underwater, following after “Dom-nic”, fishing with PopPop, jumping ocean waves, driving a golf cart or reciting Good Night, Moon from memory. To be honest, I don’t know which of his antics are the most amazing.
Harry has just a touch of stranger anxiety, but once he warms up there is no turning him off. He would prefer to have Snoedel and Baby with him at all times, but losing one of them has become Kevin and my biggest fear. If they leave the house, we become lovey bodyguards. Some may argue we take better care of those two than our own son, but it is because we fear the repercussions of misplacing one of them, and we also really don’t want Harry to go to bed with a peanut butter covered doll! Needless to say, the two made the trek with us to Cape May this past holiday weekend. “Snoedel here?” is the phrase we often hear, followed up with “Where’d Snoedel go?” (Snoedel is often right next to him).
Since Isabella and Dominic did not have their bikes with them, Harry’s never left the van. He spent lots of time with Baby’s stroller, yelling “Car coming!” and scampering to the side of the gravel roads whenever an SUV would show itself…often three blocks away. He has learned patience.
Harry also spent his non-bike time begging whoever was in site to get him the key for the golf cart. Didn’t matter if anyone we knew owned the golf cart- he climbed in anyway and said "Where's the key?" or "No key." Didn’t matter that he couldn’t reach the pedals, he was determined to drive. PopPop and Uncle Dom each let him steer, and he was welcome to spend hours on end sitting behind the wheel…he just couldn’t get enough of it! And after somehow ending up behind the wheel of my car while we loaded up, he has decided that he can now drive that, too. Again, doesn’t matter that he can’t reach the pedals. That he doesn’t have a license. That his car seat is meant for the back seat. That he is 2! Every time we get in “Me drive.” Very matter-of-fact. After I try to explain Virginia driving laws to him, he eventually gives up.
So, in Harry’s world, Snoedel comes first, then driving, then “Dom-nic.” Apparently cousin Dominic is the coolest kid in the cosmos. If Harry wasn’t yelling after him one of the other little boys was. He is the sweetest boy. He loves Harry and he is so patient, but even a saint has limits! It is funny, though, to remember that Dominic used to be the same way with Kayla. And it is neat to see, once again, how much Harry responds to big kids. That is not to say he and Isabella don’t get along swimmingly. She seems to have just the right personality to get along with Harry: Harry plays with all of her toys and she observes him like a lab rat, as if to say “Hmmm….fascinating.”
Kevin suspects it was the hero worship that got Harry to step foot on sand. Maybe. I think it is his love of the water. He has never liked sand. He hated it at our Disney hotel this year and last. I was concerned before we left (since I LOVE the beach), but luckily his love of the water won out. He isn’t an idiot. He has a respect for the water. He likes to know that I am nearby (an inch away with my hand open to grab him) when the waves come. He doesn’t seem quite as concerned about whether I am next to him when he jumps into the pool though! And he seems okay with it if I am not! He doesn’t mind being underwater and he not only jumps under, he will stand there, squat down and put his head in for 10 seconds. It is amazing! Even though we practiced, this is a giant leap. He actually seemed to want to swim underwater, too. He moved his arms and began to float…but there is a fine line between letting him learn on his own and the trauma of being under just a little too long. We have Josh’s pool pass for the summer, so we will keep practicing.
Practice certainly pays off with Harry. After regular readings of Good Night, Moon, I decided to see if he had been paying attention. Often, he would rather ask about the pictures than pay attention to the story, but I guess he absorbed a little after all. He knows what words come next. He likes to refer to the bowl of mush as oatmeal, but he knows it is “mush!” He also knows when the old lady says “hush,” she really means “Night night.” He seems very proud of himself and happy to play along. I just think he is awesome!
He may not be as big as he would like (struggles of late have been about who gets to drive) but I think it is safe to say Harry is officially a big kid. This kid has wanted to be big since he was born, and 2 year molars, scabby feet, a bottle of Motrin and some sun block in his eyes are not going to deter him from swimming underwater, following after “Dom-nic”, fishing with PopPop, jumping ocean waves, driving a golf cart or reciting Good Night, Moon from memory. To be honest, I don’t know which of his antics are the most amazing.
Harry has just a touch of stranger anxiety, but once he warms up there is no turning him off. He would prefer to have Snoedel and Baby with him at all times, but losing one of them has become Kevin and my biggest fear. If they leave the house, we become lovey bodyguards. Some may argue we take better care of those two than our own son, but it is because we fear the repercussions of misplacing one of them, and we also really don’t want Harry to go to bed with a peanut butter covered doll! Needless to say, the two made the trek with us to Cape May this past holiday weekend. “Snoedel here?” is the phrase we often hear, followed up with “Where’d Snoedel go?” (Snoedel is often right next to him).
Since Isabella and Dominic did not have their bikes with them, Harry’s never left the van. He spent lots of time with Baby’s stroller, yelling “Car coming!” and scampering to the side of the gravel roads whenever an SUV would show itself…often three blocks away. He has learned patience.
Harry also spent his non-bike time begging whoever was in site to get him the key for the golf cart. Didn’t matter if anyone we knew owned the golf cart- he climbed in anyway and said "Where's the key?" or "No key." Didn’t matter that he couldn’t reach the pedals, he was determined to drive. PopPop and Uncle Dom each let him steer, and he was welcome to spend hours on end sitting behind the wheel…he just couldn’t get enough of it! And after somehow ending up behind the wheel of my car while we loaded up, he has decided that he can now drive that, too. Again, doesn’t matter that he can’t reach the pedals. That he doesn’t have a license. That his car seat is meant for the back seat. That he is 2! Every time we get in “Me drive.” Very matter-of-fact. After I try to explain Virginia driving laws to him, he eventually gives up.
So, in Harry’s world, Snoedel comes first, then driving, then “Dom-nic.” Apparently cousin Dominic is the coolest kid in the cosmos. If Harry wasn’t yelling after him one of the other little boys was. He is the sweetest boy. He loves Harry and he is so patient, but even a saint has limits! It is funny, though, to remember that Dominic used to be the same way with Kayla. And it is neat to see, once again, how much Harry responds to big kids. That is not to say he and Isabella don’t get along swimmingly. She seems to have just the right personality to get along with Harry: Harry plays with all of her toys and she observes him like a lab rat, as if to say “Hmmm….fascinating.”
Kevin suspects it was the hero worship that got Harry to step foot on sand. Maybe. I think it is his love of the water. He has never liked sand. He hated it at our Disney hotel this year and last. I was concerned before we left (since I LOVE the beach), but luckily his love of the water won out. He isn’t an idiot. He has a respect for the water. He likes to know that I am nearby (an inch away with my hand open to grab him) when the waves come. He doesn’t seem quite as concerned about whether I am next to him when he jumps into the pool though! And he seems okay with it if I am not! He doesn’t mind being underwater and he not only jumps under, he will stand there, squat down and put his head in for 10 seconds. It is amazing! Even though we practiced, this is a giant leap. He actually seemed to want to swim underwater, too. He moved his arms and began to float…but there is a fine line between letting him learn on his own and the trauma of being under just a little too long. We have Josh’s pool pass for the summer, so we will keep practicing.
Practice certainly pays off with Harry. After regular readings of Good Night, Moon, I decided to see if he had been paying attention. Often, he would rather ask about the pictures than pay attention to the story, but I guess he absorbed a little after all. He knows what words come next. He likes to refer to the bowl of mush as oatmeal, but he knows it is “mush!” He also knows when the old lady says “hush,” she really means “Night night.” He seems very proud of himself and happy to play along. I just think he is awesome!
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
WaterWorld…
Crappy movie, but Harry seems to be a big fan of the concept.
All of Kim's swimming lessons and time at the Pool with Lance & Lola have certainly paid off. Over the holiday weekend, Harry spent some time in the baby pool with his new bestest bud "Dom-nic," and proceeded to scare the crap out of everyone with how much he likes to go underwater… eyes and wide open and grinning ear-to-ear, and pop back up with a big belly laugh! He didn't seem to mind, much less notice until well after the fact, how much he feet were getting scraped up on the bottom, but he was having a BLAST!
He also got to spend a day at the beach, where he seemed to be stuck with a surprise hatred for sand and everything about it. Now of course, this immediately got blamed on me. Now granted, other than the obvious effects of sunburn, the only thing I really don't like about the beach is getting sand all over the place (minor huh?), but I can deal with it. Harry wouldn't let his feet touch the ground… even with his shoes still on. Wouldn't walk on it, didn't even really want to be carried over it. I think for the first time ever, I was the one trying to get someone to enjoy the sand… go figure. Eventually we got him to stand barefoot on a beach blanket, but no more budging than that. At that point, Kim swooped him up, and off to the waves they went. I stayed behind, to guard the chairs of course, as I'm not a big fan of Harry in a bad mood.
Whatever she did though, got him into it… coulda been the aforementioned Dom-nic effect, coulda just been the waves, but by the time I ventured down to the water, he was back to his old self again, jumping (yes --- even getting some air) over the water, and running all over the place.
At some point, we'll need to discuss his obvious obsessive tendencies with regards to fishing, golf carts, and Dom-nic, but I need to get some work done.
More to come...
Crappy movie, but Harry seems to be a big fan of the concept.
All of Kim's swimming lessons and time at the Pool with Lance & Lola have certainly paid off. Over the holiday weekend, Harry spent some time in the baby pool with his new bestest bud "Dom-nic," and proceeded to scare the crap out of everyone with how much he likes to go underwater… eyes and wide open and grinning ear-to-ear, and pop back up with a big belly laugh! He didn't seem to mind, much less notice until well after the fact, how much he feet were getting scraped up on the bottom, but he was having a BLAST!
He also got to spend a day at the beach, where he seemed to be stuck with a surprise hatred for sand and everything about it. Now of course, this immediately got blamed on me. Now granted, other than the obvious effects of sunburn, the only thing I really don't like about the beach is getting sand all over the place (minor huh?), but I can deal with it. Harry wouldn't let his feet touch the ground… even with his shoes still on. Wouldn't walk on it, didn't even really want to be carried over it. I think for the first time ever, I was the one trying to get someone to enjoy the sand… go figure. Eventually we got him to stand barefoot on a beach blanket, but no more budging than that. At that point, Kim swooped him up, and off to the waves they went. I stayed behind, to guard the chairs of course, as I'm not a big fan of Harry in a bad mood.
Whatever she did though, got him into it… coulda been the aforementioned Dom-nic effect, coulda just been the waves, but by the time I ventured down to the water, he was back to his old self again, jumping (yes --- even getting some air) over the water, and running all over the place.
At some point, we'll need to discuss his obvious obsessive tendencies with regards to fishing, golf carts, and Dom-nic, but I need to get some work done.
More to come...
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Window?
Harry's doll's, Baby Ernie's, stroller was in the car yesterday, but Baby Ernie was not. Harry asked where he was and I explained that Baby was waiting for him at home. They next logical question: Window?
I always stand at the window when Harry goes to school in the morning. We wave to each other and blow kisses. Harry and I sometimes watch out the window for Kevin to get home, as well, and lately Harry sometimes waits for me there. He was visiting with "Gammom" on Monday while I worked in NJ, and sure enough, when I pulled in the drive way at the end of the day, he was jumping up and down at the window with a huge smile on his face. Luckily, I had left Baby Ernie very close to the window!
Stuck in Boston today. Harry asked if I was on an airplane. But of course. Apparently he also got his shoes and jacket promptly at 4:30 and sat on the sofa because "Mommy coming." He waited patiently. He really is not happy at Yasmin's, but he has only 4 more days there, and I can pick him up early on 2 of them...I am still trying to decide what sorts of flowers and jewels and treasures to bestow upon Menike when she returns from Sri Lanka.
Harry's doll's, Baby Ernie's, stroller was in the car yesterday, but Baby Ernie was not. Harry asked where he was and I explained that Baby was waiting for him at home. They next logical question: Window?
I always stand at the window when Harry goes to school in the morning. We wave to each other and blow kisses. Harry and I sometimes watch out the window for Kevin to get home, as well, and lately Harry sometimes waits for me there. He was visiting with "Gammom" on Monday while I worked in NJ, and sure enough, when I pulled in the drive way at the end of the day, he was jumping up and down at the window with a huge smile on his face. Luckily, I had left Baby Ernie very close to the window!
Stuck in Boston today. Harry asked if I was on an airplane. But of course. Apparently he also got his shoes and jacket promptly at 4:30 and sat on the sofa because "Mommy coming." He waited patiently. He really is not happy at Yasmin's, but he has only 4 more days there, and I can pick him up early on 2 of them...I am still trying to decide what sorts of flowers and jewels and treasures to bestow upon Menike when she returns from Sri Lanka.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Bear Country Jubilee
Taking a break from the Disney recap to explain yet another traumatic moment in Harry's life.
Taking a break from the Disney recap to explain yet another traumatic moment in Harry's life.
- Dropping the ice cream.
- 3-D Bug Movie.
- Da Bears.
Harry has had an issue with bears lately. I think it is from Dora. A few weeks ago at Great Falls we were looking for bears. Since then, he has become worried about them. It is unfortunate. Also unfortunate is my poker face, or lack there of.
Late this afternoon I was talking to Harry about our upcoming trip to Chicago. He, of course, asked if there were bears. My response was "There are no bears in- uh...(Isn't there a sports team known as the Chicago Bears? Hmmm...I think there is....what do I tell the boy?)". Too late. The boy noticed I was uncertain whether their were bears in Chicago and immediately welled up with tears. I HAVE GOT TO WORK ON THE GAME FACE!!!!
Thursday, May 11, 2006
My Version of the Events
Kevin’s account of Disney was pretty accurate, but since he covered 6 days in just a dozen or so paragraphs, I thought I would fill in a few more details.
Sunday morning did indeed arrive early: and with no Dora to buffer the wake! Not just no Tivo, no Noggin or Nick, Jr. period! Luckily, Harry seems to like hotel rooms, so we were able to snooze here and there until the Mouse waffles arrived.
We lucked out with our view of the “harbor” and its boats. Harry loved them. We did take advantage of the opportunity to review colors. As noted, he seems to have a penchant for "Ooornj". “Yellyow” is cool, too.
As noted, Monday was Animal Kingdom day. Kevin brought up the fact that almost everyone we talked to recommended against Animal Kingdom. We assumed it was mostly because they thought it was boring. Many people think EPCOT is boring, too, so we risked it, if only to check out the animals on the safari.
For once, we agreed with everyone else. AK was “eh.” Yeah. Maybe a “C”. For one thing, the walk space was not nearly as wide as Epcot, so you were constantly walking into people. Nothing seemed to loop or flow. It also seemed so much less “authentic” then other parks. Yeah, it’s a theme park, but it was a little cheesy. For a new park created next to such fine examples, we expected more.
Kevin also mentioned Harry’s Simba face. This was kind of a whim. Kevin went to get a Fast Pass (or whatever) for the safari and I plopped Harry in a chair (on my lap, actually). I didn’t even have a wallet on me. Oops! Harry didn’t like it at first, so he was almost a different, less labor intensive cat (A Paka Cat, maybe?) that did not involve eye paint, but he soon gave up the way Bailey does when she gets her nails cut. Learned Helplessness we called it at the Psych building. Regardless, teh result was an adorable Simba in a blue Townsend Kids T. Even cuter with dark shades! I can’t tell you the number of people that stopped to say how cute he was. Harry was not a fan though. That is to say, when he saw himself in the mirror, he did not like it. So I moved him away from the mirror. He was none the wiser, and I was able to add a novel spin to the day's 200 photos.
Next: The African Safari Truck Tour. Harry liked the truck! He really is all about modes of transportation these days. I am sure PopPop will be pleased. He’d been concerned about Harry’s doll and tea set. Anyway, the safari was pretty cool. The scenary was scenic and there were real animals. There was the goofy poaching thing. It was just that: goofy. And they didn’t really elaborate on the problem of poaching, so why bring it up at all?
The Bug's Life 3-D movie ranks right up there with the “ice cream cone incident” as one of Harry’s most traumatic moments. I have never seen him so truly frightened. Lots of shouts of “All Done! ALL DONE! HOME!” We were in the middle of a packed row, so that wasn’t an option. I did take off his 3-D glasses. Fortunately the production was only a few minutes long. When we were done, Harry actually said he liked it.
Moving on... the search for bears… Harry DID have fun looking for bears and even waited in line at the meet & greet for Baloo and King Louie. He practiced his hugs and everything. Once it was our turn, hugging a 7 foot bear ceased to be a good idea. No trauma though. It was all good.
One thing I thought was really cool was the bat exhibit. I have never seen bats like these before. They were close to my height and wrapped up like Dracula. They were the coolest things ever! (Harry slept through those).
Not to be outdone, AK had a playground area too. It was called the Boneyard. They promised lots of fun with fossils. It was pretty cool... Harry probably could have played there all day., but it was very hot and we had to move on.
Next stop EPCOT.
The gardens were amazing as usual. I want to build Tinkerbell’s Garden in our backyard!!!
Harry eventually moved on to the water area. I brought clothes, since I expected this, but I didn’t bring shoes. Oops! Luckily, we were able to track down a new pair from the souvenir shop. $20 big boy sneakers with Stitch on the side. Kind of convenient, actually, since I had searched all over Greenwich, CT for a suitable pair and could not find them.
We then moved over to Mexico and had a not so quiet lunch next to a screaming 2 year old. “Baby cry!” Harry did not like that. He did like his sandwich though, so that was good.
After lunch we were nourished enough to make it through the boat ride in Mexico and then on to color a mask in a little side room where he was able to talk to the kind woman running the operation about Dora, and properly use “Hola.”
The Mexican ride was relatively uneventful, but Harry was not interested in Maelstom. “No boat.” He stated, matter-of-factly. Being the empathetic parents that we are, we put him on anyway. As soon as the lights went out Harry burried his head in the crook of my neck. Lesson learned.
We left EPCOT to go to the pool for a bit. Harry practiced jumping off of the side. He jumps perefectly well if it’s into water!
The sun gave me a horrible migraine but I was able to sleep it off in just a few hours. I missed the lizard run-in though, but I certainly heard all about it!
We finished up our trip with a day at Magic Kingdom. I will let Kevin fill you in on that. As Harry would say, “Daddy turn!”
Kevin’s account of Disney was pretty accurate, but since he covered 6 days in just a dozen or so paragraphs, I thought I would fill in a few more details.
Sunday morning did indeed arrive early: and with no Dora to buffer the wake! Not just no Tivo, no Noggin or Nick, Jr. period! Luckily, Harry seems to like hotel rooms, so we were able to snooze here and there until the Mouse waffles arrived.
We lucked out with our view of the “harbor” and its boats. Harry loved them. We did take advantage of the opportunity to review colors. As noted, he seems to have a penchant for "Ooornj". “Yellyow” is cool, too.
As noted, Monday was Animal Kingdom day. Kevin brought up the fact that almost everyone we talked to recommended against Animal Kingdom. We assumed it was mostly because they thought it was boring. Many people think EPCOT is boring, too, so we risked it, if only to check out the animals on the safari.
For once, we agreed with everyone else. AK was “eh.” Yeah. Maybe a “C”. For one thing, the walk space was not nearly as wide as Epcot, so you were constantly walking into people. Nothing seemed to loop or flow. It also seemed so much less “authentic” then other parks. Yeah, it’s a theme park, but it was a little cheesy. For a new park created next to such fine examples, we expected more.
Kevin also mentioned Harry’s Simba face. This was kind of a whim. Kevin went to get a Fast Pass (or whatever) for the safari and I plopped Harry in a chair (on my lap, actually). I didn’t even have a wallet on me. Oops! Harry didn’t like it at first, so he was almost a different, less labor intensive cat (A Paka Cat, maybe?) that did not involve eye paint, but he soon gave up the way Bailey does when she gets her nails cut. Learned Helplessness we called it at the Psych building. Regardless, teh result was an adorable Simba in a blue Townsend Kids T. Even cuter with dark shades! I can’t tell you the number of people that stopped to say how cute he was. Harry was not a fan though. That is to say, when he saw himself in the mirror, he did not like it. So I moved him away from the mirror. He was none the wiser, and I was able to add a novel spin to the day's 200 photos.
Next: The African Safari Truck Tour. Harry liked the truck! He really is all about modes of transportation these days. I am sure PopPop will be pleased. He’d been concerned about Harry’s doll and tea set. Anyway, the safari was pretty cool. The scenary was scenic and there were real animals. There was the goofy poaching thing. It was just that: goofy. And they didn’t really elaborate on the problem of poaching, so why bring it up at all?
The Bug's Life 3-D movie ranks right up there with the “ice cream cone incident” as one of Harry’s most traumatic moments. I have never seen him so truly frightened. Lots of shouts of “All Done! ALL DONE! HOME!” We were in the middle of a packed row, so that wasn’t an option. I did take off his 3-D glasses. Fortunately the production was only a few minutes long. When we were done, Harry actually said he liked it.
Moving on... the search for bears… Harry DID have fun looking for bears and even waited in line at the meet & greet for Baloo and King Louie. He practiced his hugs and everything. Once it was our turn, hugging a 7 foot bear ceased to be a good idea. No trauma though. It was all good.
One thing I thought was really cool was the bat exhibit. I have never seen bats like these before. They were close to my height and wrapped up like Dracula. They were the coolest things ever! (Harry slept through those).
Not to be outdone, AK had a playground area too. It was called the Boneyard. They promised lots of fun with fossils. It was pretty cool... Harry probably could have played there all day., but it was very hot and we had to move on.
Next stop EPCOT.
The gardens were amazing as usual. I want to build Tinkerbell’s Garden in our backyard!!!
Harry eventually moved on to the water area. I brought clothes, since I expected this, but I didn’t bring shoes. Oops! Luckily, we were able to track down a new pair from the souvenir shop. $20 big boy sneakers with Stitch on the side. Kind of convenient, actually, since I had searched all over Greenwich, CT for a suitable pair and could not find them.
We then moved over to Mexico and had a not so quiet lunch next to a screaming 2 year old. “Baby cry!” Harry did not like that. He did like his sandwich though, so that was good.
After lunch we were nourished enough to make it through the boat ride in Mexico and then on to color a mask in a little side room where he was able to talk to the kind woman running the operation about Dora, and properly use “Hola.”
The Mexican ride was relatively uneventful, but Harry was not interested in Maelstom. “No boat.” He stated, matter-of-factly. Being the empathetic parents that we are, we put him on anyway. As soon as the lights went out Harry burried his head in the crook of my neck. Lesson learned.
We left EPCOT to go to the pool for a bit. Harry practiced jumping off of the side. He jumps perefectly well if it’s into water!
The sun gave me a horrible migraine but I was able to sleep it off in just a few hours. I missed the lizard run-in though, but I certainly heard all about it!
We finished up our trip with a day at Magic Kingdom. I will let Kevin fill you in on that. As Harry would say, “Daddy turn!”
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Part II
Sunday morning began like almost any other -- EARLY.
You'd think after a night of traveling, Harry would have wanted to sleep in. Not so much. That said, the view from the balcony and the extra window afforded us by a corner room, was a great asset. We overlooked the "harbor" from which the shuttle ferried from the Swan & Dolphin hotels over to either EPCOT Center, or to MGM Studios. Regardless of where they were headed, we were assured of periodic entertainment for little man spotting boats and calling out their colors… every once in a while, he even got it right (he seems to have a penchant for "Ooornj").
So out we went to explore the immediate area… lots of running by Harry, chasing by Kim, and catching-up with the empty stroller by me. The weather was pleasant, although still a bit chilly in the early part of the day. Lunch by the pool, some swimming, a nap, more running around, and then dinnertime.
Monday came, and we headed off to Disney's Animal Kingdom. Harry seems to be quite fond of public transportation these days, as evidenced by an overwhelming desire to point out every single Bus, Train, Airplane, and Truck that crosses his field of vision. This is a plus, as we hopped on the shuttle bus after a brief wait.
Almost everyone we talked to recommended against Animal Kingdom. Mainly as they seemed to think it was boring, but we love EPCOT, which they also seem to hate, so we thought we'd give it a go. Aside from Harry's exceptional face painting purchase (a GREAT one of Simba from The Lion King), it wasn't much to speak of. Especially the Safari Tuck tour when we had to run down the poachers. Nothing like the denouement coming at the death of the matriarch of the elephant herd… great for kids I tell ya.
The other big attraction there was the Bug's Life 3-D movie. This was great until the first audience-scream-point. From there on out, Harry was a bit displeased. Then this huge animatronic grasshopper comes up out of the stage and starts yelling at the audience amidst a huge cloud of fog… then a bug shoots water at everyone… then everyone screams again.
Needless to say, bad idea.
Harry did have fun playing drums and looking for bears (right up there with the trucks & buses), but overall, I'd give Animal Kingdom a C at best.
Next day was the trip on the boat over to EPCOT. As I mentioned, Kim and I are big fans. This time was no different, as Home Depot had sponsored a Garden & Flower exhibition. At just about every other "country," there were these great backyard-playgrounds set up. Harry was in his element, and I think we were both impressed with what you could potentially build in your own yard (for a nominal cost of course).
Harry made it over to Mexico for lunch, and then we headed into the pyramid for the boat tour… he did quite well considering how dark it was. It's pretty mellow though, so a nice starter ride. We got ambitious and then got on the Maelstrom over in Norway. That one was much darker, literally and figuratively. This didn't go over so well, as the loud booming voice of the haunted tree stump that came up out of the water was only about 2 feet away.
So we're pretty much done with rides at this point.
Exhausted, Harry finally fell asleep for a nap, and since we had all-day passes, we decided to head back to the hotel for a swim, and try to come back for the fireworks/light show and parade later in the evening. Whilst at the pool, Kim got an awful migraine, so we headed back to the room, she took a nap, and Harry and I headed back over to EPCOT for dinner. Thomas the Train kept him entertained in the English toy store for a while, and we ate in Canada. Walked around for a bit, and spent the rest of the evening watching the toy trains and playing in one of the Home Depot playgrounds. As we headed back, Harry got good & tired running, until one of the little lizards in the underbrush by the Boardwalk ran across his path…
"Wahs dat?"
"that’s a lizard"
"neez-ird?"
"Yep. Did you see it"
"No … no neez … no leez … no neez-irds. No neezirds."
He repeated that for pretty much the rest of the night, with appropriate finger shaking as well.
When we made the clubhouse turn, I could see Kim watching for us from the 2nd floor balcony. We were still about 75 yards away, but thought it'd be a good idea to point this out to him, as he had been asking where she was for most of the evening. Needless to say, once he saw her, he immediately was telling her all about the lizards and that he wasn't very inclined to see any more of them. All while running towards her, past several other couples, from 2 floors below.
Quite the sight.
Sunday morning began like almost any other -- EARLY.
You'd think after a night of traveling, Harry would have wanted to sleep in. Not so much. That said, the view from the balcony and the extra window afforded us by a corner room, was a great asset. We overlooked the "harbor" from which the shuttle ferried from the Swan & Dolphin hotels over to either EPCOT Center, or to MGM Studios. Regardless of where they were headed, we were assured of periodic entertainment for little man spotting boats and calling out their colors… every once in a while, he even got it right (he seems to have a penchant for "Ooornj").
So out we went to explore the immediate area… lots of running by Harry, chasing by Kim, and catching-up with the empty stroller by me. The weather was pleasant, although still a bit chilly in the early part of the day. Lunch by the pool, some swimming, a nap, more running around, and then dinnertime.
Monday came, and we headed off to Disney's Animal Kingdom. Harry seems to be quite fond of public transportation these days, as evidenced by an overwhelming desire to point out every single Bus, Train, Airplane, and Truck that crosses his field of vision. This is a plus, as we hopped on the shuttle bus after a brief wait.
Almost everyone we talked to recommended against Animal Kingdom. Mainly as they seemed to think it was boring, but we love EPCOT, which they also seem to hate, so we thought we'd give it a go. Aside from Harry's exceptional face painting purchase (a GREAT one of Simba from The Lion King), it wasn't much to speak of. Especially the Safari Tuck tour when we had to run down the poachers. Nothing like the denouement coming at the death of the matriarch of the elephant herd… great for kids I tell ya.
The other big attraction there was the Bug's Life 3-D movie. This was great until the first audience-scream-point. From there on out, Harry was a bit displeased. Then this huge animatronic grasshopper comes up out of the stage and starts yelling at the audience amidst a huge cloud of fog… then a bug shoots water at everyone… then everyone screams again.
Needless to say, bad idea.
Harry did have fun playing drums and looking for bears (right up there with the trucks & buses), but overall, I'd give Animal Kingdom a C at best.
Next day was the trip on the boat over to EPCOT. As I mentioned, Kim and I are big fans. This time was no different, as Home Depot had sponsored a Garden & Flower exhibition. At just about every other "country," there were these great backyard-playgrounds set up. Harry was in his element, and I think we were both impressed with what you could potentially build in your own yard (for a nominal cost of course).
Harry made it over to Mexico for lunch, and then we headed into the pyramid for the boat tour… he did quite well considering how dark it was. It's pretty mellow though, so a nice starter ride. We got ambitious and then got on the Maelstrom over in Norway. That one was much darker, literally and figuratively. This didn't go over so well, as the loud booming voice of the haunted tree stump that came up out of the water was only about 2 feet away.
So we're pretty much done with rides at this point.
Exhausted, Harry finally fell asleep for a nap, and since we had all-day passes, we decided to head back to the hotel for a swim, and try to come back for the fireworks/light show and parade later in the evening. Whilst at the pool, Kim got an awful migraine, so we headed back to the room, she took a nap, and Harry and I headed back over to EPCOT for dinner. Thomas the Train kept him entertained in the English toy store for a while, and we ate in Canada. Walked around for a bit, and spent the rest of the evening watching the toy trains and playing in one of the Home Depot playgrounds. As we headed back, Harry got good & tired running, until one of the little lizards in the underbrush by the Boardwalk ran across his path…
"Wahs dat?"
"that’s a lizard"
"neez-ird?"
"Yep. Did you see it"
"No … no neez … no leez … no neez-irds. No neezirds."
He repeated that for pretty much the rest of the night, with appropriate finger shaking as well.
When we made the clubhouse turn, I could see Kim watching for us from the 2nd floor balcony. We were still about 75 yards away, but thought it'd be a good idea to point this out to him, as he had been asking where she was for most of the evening. Needless to say, once he saw her, he immediately was telling her all about the lizards and that he wasn't very inclined to see any more of them. All while running towards her, past several other couples, from 2 floors below.
Quite the sight.
Monday, May 08, 2006
And we're back!
Only 1 week later, but it feels like months since we left for Disney, and even longer since Harry's birthday party.
2 hotel rooms, 3 airline flights (1 transfer), quite a few juice boxes, Uncrustables, and Mickey-shaped Chip 'n' Dale Pretzels, and 1 embarrassingly expensive Sushi dinner later, and we're all still just a bit tired.
Apologies so far for not posting any new photos, will work on that tonight (gobs of them from the last few weeks… pre-birthday visits from the Magoo's, party week, post-party DC-ing, pre-trip, in-transit, vacation, back home, and ex post facto), and that doesn't even include the 2 disposable cameras full from our last day at the Magic Kingdom, as I managed to leave the digicam behind, right on the hotel-room credenza for safe keeping.
An early ride to the Airport on Saturday (thanks to Tara the Chauffeur) gave Harry plenty of time to explore Terminal A at DCA while we digested the aforementioned 'spensive Sushi (bad ordering on my part = big bill for me to pay). Harry loved making airplane noises all over the terminal, and no one else was there to "enjoy" them, so it worked out well.
Thru security and into the plane… Kim's idea of loading the car seat on an old collapsible luggage cart was huge, and getting it into the airplane seat was simple. Harry dozed off after takeoff, and we had a smooth ride to Orlando. Getting bags were a bit of a challenge, as at that point in the evening (10:30PM?) all of the luggage carts had neglected to ride the elevator back up from ground transportation (the nerve!).
As we had decided to forego the rental car for the week (no sense in paying for a car for a week just to drive it to a parking lot and then pay for that), we hoped into a cab, popped the car seat back in and were off. Good idea, as we then also didn't need to pay attention to where we were going!
A bit of a SNAFU with the accommodations, apparently no cribs left in the complex, and found the room we got wasn't even ready when we opened the door (think lots of dirty dishes and unmade beds), but after Kim's best tired-traveler tirade at the front desk, and some help from the bellman, a nice room with a balcony and crib a short time later, we were off to sleep.
Day 1 at Disney to follow.
Only 1 week later, but it feels like months since we left for Disney, and even longer since Harry's birthday party.
2 hotel rooms, 3 airline flights (1 transfer), quite a few juice boxes, Uncrustables, and Mickey-shaped Chip 'n' Dale Pretzels, and 1 embarrassingly expensive Sushi dinner later, and we're all still just a bit tired.
Apologies so far for not posting any new photos, will work on that tonight (gobs of them from the last few weeks… pre-birthday visits from the Magoo's, party week, post-party DC-ing, pre-trip, in-transit, vacation, back home, and ex post facto), and that doesn't even include the 2 disposable cameras full from our last day at the Magic Kingdom, as I managed to leave the digicam behind, right on the hotel-room credenza for safe keeping.
An early ride to the Airport on Saturday (thanks to Tara the Chauffeur) gave Harry plenty of time to explore Terminal A at DCA while we digested the aforementioned 'spensive Sushi (bad ordering on my part = big bill for me to pay). Harry loved making airplane noises all over the terminal, and no one else was there to "enjoy" them, so it worked out well.
Thru security and into the plane… Kim's idea of loading the car seat on an old collapsible luggage cart was huge, and getting it into the airplane seat was simple. Harry dozed off after takeoff, and we had a smooth ride to Orlando. Getting bags were a bit of a challenge, as at that point in the evening (10:30PM?) all of the luggage carts had neglected to ride the elevator back up from ground transportation (the nerve!).
As we had decided to forego the rental car for the week (no sense in paying for a car for a week just to drive it to a parking lot and then pay for that), we hoped into a cab, popped the car seat back in and were off. Good idea, as we then also didn't need to pay attention to where we were going!
A bit of a SNAFU with the accommodations, apparently no cribs left in the complex, and found the room we got wasn't even ready when we opened the door (think lots of dirty dishes and unmade beds), but after Kim's best tired-traveler tirade at the front desk, and some help from the bellman, a nice room with a balcony and crib a short time later, we were off to sleep.
Day 1 at Disney to follow.
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