Tillman's in Trouble

I remember when I was young, someone would do something bad, and the "good one" would reply "aaaaawooowooo, you going to be in toooouuuubbbbleeeeee......MOM!"

Well, Tillman has been getting into some trouble the past few weeks at daycare.  We have seen it at home as well and have tried to discipline him, but he continues his ways. First, it started with him throwing toys.  They did tell us that a few other kids were doing the same and that all of them were being put in time out, and we needed to work with him on this (I take all of these bad things he does personally, as I strive to be a good parent).
When he showed interest in balls, we (good parents) taught him how to THROW! The issue with that is he doesn't know the difference between a ball and other toys.  Big mistake to teach him to throw a ball, as everything is being thrown.  Just this morning, Nick put him in his car seat.  He was pretty mad about it, and Nick gave him one of his toys to play with for the ride.  He took the toy and threw it out of the door before Nick could get the door shut.  Man, it is frustrating to see his act this way!
Yesterday, Nick pick up Tillman and the teacher stated he had a bad day, and he was put in time out for hitting another kid over the head with a toy (yes, you heard that right...hitting a child over the head with a toy).  She put him in his crib for time out.  I'm sure he hated being in his crib and that is good, as he should feel disciplined.  Nick told her it was ok for her to hit his hand if she wanted to.  Unsure if daycare will let her do it. It's hard when we are not there to do something about it.  He won't remember if we try to talk to him about.....he doesn't even talk!
So....we struggle with how to handle him.  We have "stepped up" popping him on the hand and telling him no (yeah, yeah, getting on his level and telling him "NO" in his face...as all the "books" tell you to).
Nick suggested this morning that we have a "no no" rug or chair in our house.  So, the next time you visit, you might just see the "no no" area!

Injury Report

Apparently medicated chest rub on a "goose egg" causes
the swelling to go down along with witch hazel...who knew?

I grew up around sayings...I think it is a Southern thing because Nick isn't used to all the sayings that come out of my mouth.  One saying my mother would always says is "hard heads make soft behinds."  We'll Tillman certainly has a hard head, and so we found out on 9-28-11.  The injury report doesn't tell the whole story.

As soon as I arrive at daycare, the director said, you'll have to forgive me, but I forgot to call you.  I'm thinking "ok....uhhh....for what?" She further said that Tillman broke a glass door today when he couldn't catch himself from a fall.  WHAT?  He broke a door? She further tells me that the glass repairman couldn't believe that a baby broke the door.  He said Tillman must have hit it just right.  In the back of my mind, I'm thinking "you called the repairman, but forgot to call me....??"

Of course he was fine, he had three nice size bruises on his forehead where he went head first into the door.  Fortunately, it was safety glass, so no cuts.

I guess Tillman has redefined the saying to "hard head make (for) broken glass!"

How can it be?

8.28.11

Thursday is the 1st day of September.  I can't believe in 13 days Tillman will be a 1 year old. The party planning has begun, the date has been set, the theme has been chosen, etc. The closer the time comes the more mixed my emotions are about our baby turning 1.  Yes, it is exciting that he is growing up, but on the same note...HE'S GROWING UP!

It was reported yesterday that he took 5 steps at daycare, and he has a nice bruise on his forehead to prove his efforts of taking steps (he smacked the coffee table while showing off while Skyping with MiMi).

Speaking of reports from daycare, the teachers never just come out and say "oh mom, he took 5 steps today." They never give reports on milestones unless I specifically ask.  It makes me wonder if they are reluctant to tell me since they may be seeing a milestone for the first time (before mom and dad). If I say, "have you guys seen him takes some steps? He was taking steps this weekend." They will gladly speak up and say "oh yeah, he walked from the refrigerator to the jumperoo after his nap today."  If I wouldn't have said a thing, would they have told me?  I know that we won't be there for everything, but I'd at least like a full (uncensored) report.

Ok...so I wouldn't be a MOM if I didn't say, I hate to miss those milestones/be there first hand with the video camera capturing everything the moment it first happens, but at the same time I'd also would hate to live in a tent, so I guess our situation won't change, and mommy and daddy will continue to work! As my maternal Grandfather used to say "children have their work to do too," and Tillman's job is to give those daycare ladies a run for their money!  After all, I'm sure by the time he hits first grade he will have a well boost immune system (we're currently on ear infection #3) and (hopefully) won't be that kid in the carpool line screaming since he's never been away from mommy/daddy. 

When Tillman goes into daycare, he knows the routine, and goes with open arms to his teachers.  In September, he will be moving to a new class, so interesting times to come with a new set of teachers and going from the oldest kiddo in the room to the youngest.

September will be a big month for sure!

Wednesday Woes

DISCLAIMER: First, let me say "I AM SPOILED!"  I know this, so I tend to complain because I have it good...very good and haven't had to experience the "other side." 

-HOWEVER-
I'm going to complain and whine BECAUSE this poor spoiled brat has had a rough past few days.

My lovely husband (who rarely travels for work, has a home office, took care of our son for 3 months after I went back to work-involved daddy, does the majority of the cleaning, is an awesome cook, walks the dog and on and on and on...I am sure I'm missing some other great things the hubs does.) has been working before sunrise until after dark this week.  This working until after dark isn't usual, but it is normally at the "home office," so he is still home, and we can still visit with him.  Man, mommy has been having a rough time...Tillman too!  I have a HUGE appreciation for those single parents out there. 

This picture reminds me of how I've felt for the past few days (Tillman by default because he has to put up with me in daddy's absents).

It even further makes me laugh because of what Tillman's shirt says "Future CEO."  This picture was taken in Nick's home office, and Nick own a landscaping company with his dad. It would seem likely that if it is Tillman's wishes that he'd be the "Future CEO." 
Then there's the thought that Tillman isn't concerned about the long hours at all and is smarter than we think...maybe he is just concerned about the economy!

Day Care Funnies

Tillman's routine has certainly been "shaken up" since the start of day care.  He went from 1:1 care to 3:10 care, and he wasn't all that happy about it.  Everyone says that it is the parents that have the biggest adjustment to the concept, and while that might be true to some extent, Tillman has certainly noticed the change.  His eating, sleeping, moods, and poops other things have been effected. 

When I dropped him off this Monday morning, I handed him over to the day care lady.  His poor little lip poked out, and he began to cry.  It made me feel so bad.  This was again a repeat for Nick on Tuesday.  Most days, they say he has an absolute melt down in the morning, and then the afternoons are better.

Yesterday when I picked him up, they said he was "great!"  This is the FIRST time the ladies were smiling and "cooing" at Tillman when we left.  The other days, I think they are glad to see him go?

Since we are into week two at day care, there are some things that I think are just funny. 

1. Since the first day, there is one lady that tells me everyday "Tillman is so gassy!"  She wanted us to get him some Mylicon.  We took a bottle, and just yesterday, they are requesting another bottle.  I know this stuff won't hurt Tillman because anything you can give your child 12 times a day can't be harmful.  However, really...already need another bottle?  Yes, I get it, you think he is gassy! 
By the way, Nick and I haven't use Mylicon since he was 1 month old.  He does fine at home. 

2. Monday I had some extra time, so I stayed and chatted with the ladies.  I specifically asked if he was running low on anything.  They said he still had a good stock.  On Tuesday report card, diapers were highlighted, circled, and checked.  Really?  I just asked about this.  Tillman and I had to run to the store to have some for Wednesday.

3. Booties are required to be worn in the room for "cleanliness."  I think this is great and appreciate them putting that rule in place.  My shoes walk around a hospital all day, and Nick's shoes walk around chemicals and outdoor stuff all day, so I certainly don't want to be walking were Tillman is on the floor especially since he has his hands in his mouth all the time (wow-long sentence).  However, The booties are a pain to put on.  Plus, I don't like reusing ones that have been put on other's shoes (ick!).  I've seen some parents walk in the room with just socks or no shoes.  Apparently, that is breaking the rules.  I got "called down" for this...really, everyone else does it, and you say nothing (got to pick on the newbie?)!  The lady made me feel like a two-year-old.

4.You have to ring a door bell to get in the building.  Again, safety first!  There is a camera at the door, and they buzz you in.  One thing I ponder is how long do I wait until I buzz the bell again.  I stood there for over a minute yesterday (I know, a minute is not that long, but when you are standing there with your hand on the door handle waiting...it is!).  I finally buzzed again, and they immediately let me in.  Next time, I'm waiting 20 seconds!

5. Tillman can sleep standing up in a exersaucer.  He literally "jumps" himself to sleep. When he does this at home, we just let him be.  While it may be funny, odd, and look uncomfortable, he likes it and can sleep an hour or more, so just leave him be.  The ladies think he needs to be in a bed to sleep, so they try to move him.  Of course he wakes up, so that is why the poor child hasn't slept longer than 30 minutes since becoming a "day care kid."

6. Tillman's crib is the ONLY crib in the place that has a swing in it!  I must get a picture of this!  They have figured out that he can sleep in a swing too.  I picked him up on Friday, and he was in his swing in his crib.  The other children were sitting in Bumba seats on the carpet in a circle "playing."  Poor Tillman looked like a "loner" in the corner.  It made me sad!

So...that is that!

Employee In Training

Email from Nick:
"Tillman helping with the next proposal. 
Not sleeping much today."

I got an email yesterday with this photo attached from Nick.  Tillman was helping daddy get some desk work done!  My Grandfather always said "kids have their work to do too."  So, yes; Tillman was busy at his desk too--spinning around his toy and concentrating on keeping his head up.  I think he also got in some job shadowing.  Maybe by the time he goes to daycare he can teach the other kids how to write a landscaping proposal? 



PS Notice the outfit...he lives in this thing!  I ordered another one for him, and we got it in the mail yesterday.  Now at least we have a back up!

3 Months Old (12.12.10)

12.12.10 - Tillman's 3 month birthday

On Sunday, Tillman turned 3 months old.  It is so hard to believe!  Looking at pictures, I can tell that Tillman has certainly grown a lot since he was born.  Nights have certainly gotten easier since he is in a routine. 

At 3 months, he has an established bed time of 8 PM.  Tillman usually gets a bath in the 7 o'clock hour and feeds.  Normally right after the feeding, he is ready to be swaddled and put in the moses basket (Thanks Emily for letting us borrow yours!).  Tillman will sleep his long stretch of the night, and that usually last until 2:30 AM.  When he wake, he is HUNGRY!  He feeds, we change him, and then put him right back to bed. 

3 month old Tillman drinks 4 ozs., and so far, he has only received breast milk.  We think Tillman is around 12 lbs; although, we have not weighed him since he went for his 2 month appointment.  At his last doctor's appointment, she said he could drink 5 ozs, but we feel he is satisfied with 4.  If we feed him more, he normally gets upset and shakes his head to get away from the bottle.

Smiling to crying in .2 seconds!

Tillman is still in 0-3 month clothing.  This size fits really well, and I think he'll be growing out of a few pieces very soon.  I have already started to pull things out of the drawers that don't fit anymore, mostly newborn size. 

Tillman hanging out on the bathroom
counter while mommy gets ready

We've certainly seen Tillman smile a lot over the past few months, especially when he wakes up (if you catch him before he starts whaling and screaming).  I think he will be a morning person!  He also is starting to make lots of cooing sounds and even does a "fake cough."  He seems so impressed with himself when he makes these noises too!  (I guess we get to look forward to when he knows he can scream without crying.)

Tillman happy after his bottle

I have to say that Tillman's #1 thing to do in the past few weeks is blow bubbles. These are hard to catch on camera, as they don't seem to show up in the photo. He'll get a lot of bubbles going, and his mouth and chin will be covered in drool. We've had to start using more burp cloths and bibs lately.

Bubble Machine-click on photo to really see the bubbles

Bubble Machine-can someone wipe his mouth?

 Tillman's daily routine for the past month and until Valentine's Day is going to work with Daddy!  Most days he is out the door by 6:30 AM.  This week especially, he's had to bundle up (burrr...27 degrees).  Tillman has his own lunch box filled with 3-4 bottles to get him through the day.  He doesn't have a Sunburst Landscaping uniform yet, but I am sure he'll have one soon!  Tillman has even had a few play dates with some of Nick's Seabrook clients.  Two ladies have wanted to keep Tillman for a few hours during the day.  Also, Nick's dad (PapPaw) also lives on Seabrook and has watch Tillman during the day when Nick has to go to meeting and things. 

Tillman packed and ready for work with Daddy

We're really glad it has worked out that Nick can watch Tillman through the winter.  It sure helps out in lots of ways--they get to spend lots of father son time together, no daycare expense, no daycare snotty nose yet, etc! 

Tillman eyeing his bottle right before
walking out the door...not the time to get hungry!



2 Month Check Up

Tillman had his two month appointment on November 16th.  This was his first time back at the doctor since we had to take him for weight checks a week after he was born (glad those stressful times are behind us).  At two months, they start passing out the shots!  Nick and I have gone back and forth on the vaccines and schedule.  Nick and I both did research, as our opinions were on opposite ends of the spectrum.  We opted for a compromise and chose to spread out the shots, but for Tillman to receive all vaccines. 

Tillman goes back in two weeks to get his two shots he skipped last Tuesday.  I am glad he only got two because he had a fever and all with just two.  I don't want to think how he would have been with four shots. 

Our poor little guy after shot one.

He had the same reaction to shot two...I would too!

Also at this appointment they get all of his stats too!

At Two Months, Tillman is

-22 inches long (13th percentile)

-10 lbs 13 ozs (22nd percentile)

-Temp reading 98

-Head size 14 1/2 inches (3rd percentile)

He takes around 3.5-4 oz at a feeding. The doctor said he could take more…like 5 oz, but we think he is content with less. So far, he has only received breast milk (Nick calls it "momma milk")! No formula!!! He has come a long way from leaving the hospital at 5 lbs 9oz. He is still on the small side, but I think he is just going to be small. He has been below the 50th percentile with height and weight since his first ultrasound.  I don’t feel he is small because he isn’t getting enough to eat.

At two month, Tillman loves his swing, taking baths, taking walks in the BabyBjorn, going to work with daddy and is "cooing" and smiling a lot (oh and loves watching ceiling fans and clocks)!  He still takes 2-3 hour naps during the day, and will sleep up to 7 hours at night (in his swing).  The doctor said we need to work on transitioning him to a still sleep setting, so we've been working on that.  Of course, he doesn't sleep as well, but only wake one time during the night. 

Nick and I at two months of being parents have also grown a lot too!  We've adjusted our own bedtimes (9PM for me), and take shifts during the night (I wake to pump and Nick cares for Tillman if I'm not already up).  We've learned that team work in the morning gets us all out the door on time.  Also we've learned that what works for Tillman is good for us, so we adjust to meet his happy point (road trips start at 6AM, only go out to eat when Tillman has a full tummy, we tote his swing everywhere, etc). 

Parenting has been very rewarding for us.  It has taught me a lot about my priorities in life.    Life is no longer at work; it is at home with family.  At work it has taught me to be extra efficient, get things done during work hours, and to not allow work to flow over to family time.  Often when I leave in the morning, Tillman is asleep, and when I return, he is asleep.  I miss not seeing him during the day, but the precious time at night we spend together is something I'm not willing to give up!

I'm now a Working Mom...Career Women, you need to hop in the back seat!

image from www.top-colleges.com/.../

Up until the day I found out baby Tillman was on the way, I'd have to say I was/am pretty career focused and focused on getting to that next step.  Once I heard the news, my whole thinking changed from career women to working mom (some would say I'm not a mom until that baby is born, but the decision you make now certainly effect your family when you're a mom).  It has been really difficult to put the career aspirations on hold (many tears shed and worrying over this).  After all, Tillman hasn't arrived, and I really have no idea what to expect.  The only thing I know is my current life style, and the way things are now. 

Being content with where I am is easier said than done with a child on the way.  Most advice received is that I don't need to take anything on, but it is hard to change that mindset before my life has changed.  At 33 weeks pregnant, I feel like unambitious career women who is anticipating a life change, but in the mean time, I just have to be content while others continue to climb the ladder of success.

Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful we had not trouble getting pregnant, and I want nothing more in the world to be a mom.  However, reality is I'll have to create work-life balance and forgo career opportunities.  I don't think I can be a career women and a great mom (after all, I hear these comments like "your most important job is to be a mom...your career, well, that really doesn't matter...heard it from a "top dog" at my work just this weekend).  I am sure those unique situations of great mom and career women exist, but the opportunities I've been faced in my career don't allow it.  I can't work all the time and be a good mother who spends time with her child, tries to breastfeed until a year of age, gets supper on the table every night, keeps a clean house, be a good wife and has enough energy to get up the next morning.

My career women brain tells me that I am wasting my talent by being content, but my working mom brain tells me we can't move to take that great job in VA (it's perfect; everything I ever wanted (pay, job, an excited boss who shares the same passion. They came looking for me...something I didn't apply for), but it is in Virginia and of course, I'm pregnant), we have to scrutinize employer benefits and not just get excited over the huge salary increase (I can't pay $700 a month in healthcare when I'm currently paying $275 for our whole family and I can't wait a year to be on your retirement plan although the salary number is attractive and the offer is local), really question the hours of a job (what time would I actually get home at night to be seen as successful to the practice? Would I suffer as that mom never making it to a t-ball game?), question "do they have a medical spending account and daycare account," and the list goes on and on.

I stopped the career hunt a while back, but with everything that is when the opportunities come to you.  It is kind of like dating...once you are with someone everyone seems interested in asking you on a date (you could have gone YEARS without someone asking and now they are lining up).  No different with jobs.  Since I've been pregnant, employers have come out of the woodwork to chat.  Here are some of the things I've heard...."Oh, I found your resume on ACHE, can you fly up this weekend for an interview?"; "I looked at your profile on LinkedIn, and would like to consider you for one of the hospital I recruit for." ; See someone at a party "hey, what are you doing now, I'm looking to hire someone like you, could you meet us this week for an interview?" 
WHERE WERE YOU PEOPLE A YEAR AGO????????????????

If you have made it to this point in my post, thanks for following me through my rant.  I am truly grateful for my current situation and will be content with it.  Success in dollars and cents might be delayed or forever forgone, but I am sure there is a balance of happiness and joy through being a mom.  After all, this might be the place in life God intends me to be.  I am sure there is teaching behind it...like patients, being grateful for what I do have, etc.