Parenting for Dummies.

I've had things fairly under control until now. I could sit relatively comfortably as she slowly moved from stage to stage. Now, all of a sudden, I feel like she is moving more rapidly than ever, and I'm running to keep up with HER. I find myself asking questions more often of myself:

Am I feeding her the right amount of formula daily?
Is she getting enough sleep?
Should I be introducing her to more solid foods?
Should I be trying to discourage her newfound "squawking"?
Am I spending enough time on the floor with her?
Should I be trying to help her crawl?

Arghhghhh! This is the first job I've had that doesn't have a job description- it all seems to be trial and error. Thank goodness for the internet that gives me some idea of what milestones should be approaching!

When I was a teacher, I placed a lot of importance on the first weeks of school. Establishing routines, correcting behaviors, setting the dynamic of the classroom all set me up for an enjoyable and rewarding school year. My approach to parenting is the same- I just don't want to miss an opportunity, and look back later thinking "I shoulda done that differently". However, I'm starting to think that's inevitable- at least on this first time around. ;)

Overhaulin'

No one likes change, especially me. But sometimes, we HAVE to change, whether we like it or not. This week, my automatic blog reader informed me it was shutting down at the end of the month. YIPES! I have over 50 blogs that I keep track of on a daily basis. So, I used this opportunity to clean out some of the lousy idle blogs I had littering my reader, and start fresh...which led to reformatting some of the features on my blog...which led to fiddling with my whole blog "look", and VOILE! A new blog title and everything.

After five years of the same blog, is it time for a change? Yes.
Am I happy with it? No.
Will I warm up to it? Probably.

Speaking of changes, Kendall is changing and growing at the speed of light. More blogness to come on that topic! And thank you, ever faithful reader, for being patient during my recent summer hiatus. I think the only thing that's slow around here lately is my brain.

Hangin' in my Crib.

Looks like Mommy and Daddy will soon be lowering the bottom of my crib...my big-girl antics are making them a little nervous!

Dang it, Charlie!

Hi all! We're back from our fantastical vacay in Washington, DC...pictures to come soon. In the meantime, here's a bit of jolliness to hold you over, if you missed it on YouTube the first time around. Check out the original video below, and the remixed version (which I can NOT get out of my head) below it. If we moved to London right now, do you think Kendall would pick up that sweet accent? :)
CHARLIE BIT ME


And CHARLIE BIT ME remixxxxxed

The Dog Conversation...Conclusion.

Hi again, friends. My apologies for the abrupt hiatus on the ol' bloggety-blog. Life 'round these parts doesn't get any less boring, that's for sure! Kendall is rolling around and scooting, and boasting two new "toofers"- all of that has kept me on my toes lately! She's doing well...happy, doesn't seem bothered much by it with the exception of her sleep schedule.

Now, the bigger changes at hand: Many of you remember chiming in on this post back in 2008. The dog advocates had a convincing enough stance, so we thoughtfully tread into dog ownership. We adopted an adorable Siberian Husky named Luna. The DAY before we were scheduled to pick her up from her foster home, THIS news was dropped on us! So, for nine months, Luna was an only child. And, aside from some mild neurosis and excessive shedding, it was pretty tolerable.

THEN CAME BABY. Luna's often noisy attention-getting methods just didn't fly anymore with a sleeping newborn. Chris' work hours found him craving baby-time in the evenings, and Luna had to now share his affections. She is a jealous lover ;) And although Kendall is thoroughly entertained by the doggy, Kendall's mommy is weary from pulling dog hair from her fingers...and mouth...and clothes...and toys....and food... We just haven't been able to keep up with the maintenance necessary for an infant and large dog to cohabitate. That's all secondary to the fact that we don't feel like we're giving Luna a home environment in which she can thrive.

Therefore, we have made the difficult decision (it WAS difficult, and it WAS "WE") to find a new home for Luna. We have contacted the rescue organization who is assisting us in the process, and she is now listed as "adoptable". It's not fun to make such a major change like this, especially when it involves a living being, and I'm not looking forward to the day we have to say good-bye. I especially feel for Chris, who has been Luna's primary caregiver. It's not going to be easy. However, we're both looking forward to the advantages of a dog-free home again, especially when it comes to our precious baby girl, on whom we'd like to concentrate our time and energies on right now.

Please say a prayer for us as we conclude our time with Luna, and for God's provision as we look for the perfect family to be her forever home.

I Thought I'd Never Consider It.

I get them ALL the time...requests to "VOTE FOR MY BABY" in whatever the contest-of-the-day is. Sometimes I'll oblige...but I have to think the baby is pretty darned cute to jump through all the registration hoops they usually require to vote.

I ALSO get comments all the time about how I should enter Kendall in a baby contest (most recently, the two business men sitting next to me on the plane!). The idea of soliciting others for votes is- well, enough for me NOT to do it. But after looking at some of the other 19,000 entries, I figure she's got a legit shot (pshhhh!) :) So, I'm kicking around the idea of entering a photo in the Gerber Generation Photo Contest. You'll have to twist my arm, though. And you'll definitely have to choose which photo I should submit. The idea of choosing ONE blows my mind- the girl has mad modeling skills! (Skills you'd all love to see on a Gerber ad, right?! And we wouldn't mind the $25,000 scholarship, either.)

Here are the top five finalists:
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5

In The Name of Love...

We have the best friends and family. This week, they again overwhelmed us with love and generosity as we gathered on Derek's birthday to remember him, and to honor his memory by making a difference in the lives of others. Donations streamed in for the Children's Tumor Foundation, and we enjoyed great food and fellowship. Derek was surely smiling as he looked down on this wonderful celebration.


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I have been HIJACKED!!!!

Yes, the time has come for me, Chris, to take over this thing for a guest blog. The reason? First, Jamie has always wanted me to surprise her. Second, I was a bad husband yesterday and added to her misery and frustration at the airport. So this is kind of a "I'm sorry" blog as well. I had all these great ideas to write about including: 1) My rules for the grocery store (ex. not taking up the whole aisle by placing the cart right in the middle and not moving it when you see other people coming) 2) Road Rage 3) Airplane etiquette. Instead, I will give 5 reasons why I love my wife! These are not in any order and rest assured, there are an infinite number of reasons, not just five!

1) Jamie, you have made marriage so easy and enjoyable even after two years. We both thought after a couple years, things would become routine and quite boring. We have been wrong! I love every day I am married to you because it is different from the day before. My love just keeps growing and growing for you.

2) You make it so easy to love you. The things you say and do make me laugh. The little surprise notes, showing up at work to say hi, and thinking of fun little dates are just a few of the ways. After a bad or long day at work, you are ready to give me a big hug and make me forget all about it. You make marriage easy!

3) You have given me the cutest baby ever! I don't know what we did to deserve such a cute kid, but, WOW!!! When complete strangers everywhere walk up to Kendall and mention to you or I how cute she is, it makes me smile. Seeing the joy in your face when you hold her or when someone says how cute she is, you light up. You sure do make one heck of an oven! You baked Kendall to perfection!
4) You know how to calm me down. What made me think of this? Yesterday in the car on the drive to Minneapolis, there was a car in the left lane going slow. Obviously I was frustrated because there was no one in the right lane where this car should have been (FYI: Ask Jamie about me and stupid drivers). You calmly took my hand and held it while I passed the slow car in the RIGHT lane. Yes, the lane where the slow cars are supposed to be. You looked at me after this incident and said, "Good job, Honey!" This was because I would usually mumble something to the car about moving over to the right-hand lane where they should have been. But this time I said nothing. I'm not sure how you do it, but you have some kind of magical powers over me! I love that about you!

5) Back Rubs!!!! I usually ask you to give me one a week. Now if you ever have been given a back rub by a piano player, you know that those fingers are not weak. If I could, I'd have one every night. Let me tell you how hard it is not to ask you for one every single night. But when I do ask, I always do it in a certain way. "Sweetie, do you want to EXCHANGE back rubs?" I've learned to use the word "exchange" so that I don't look bad asking only for myself. But, every once in a while you'll let me get away without returning the favor. One of the many reasons why I love you!

I hope you don't mind me hacking into your blog!

Baby You Can Fly My Plane

I'm breaking a sweat just thinking about it. A three hour car ride tomorrow, then 6 hours on airplanes with my baby...alone. I shouldn't be worried- she's always been a champ on our cross-country flights- but she's changed SO much in the last month. Since gaining mobility (and, therefore, a heightened degree of independence), Kendall is very aware of everything around her. It doesn't bode well to be stuck in one seat with a squirmy baby. Please, Lord, sit me next to an understanding mother this time, instead of the old curmudgeon I usually get.

I'm sure the anticipation is the worst. And, it's all SO worth it. Saturday night I'll be in Northern California, ready to celebrate two family birthdays: my favorite mom and my favorite brother. For Derek's birthday this year, we've planned a Memorial BBQ in his honor, with proceeds benefiting the Children's Tumor Foundation. It's the next significant event in our year of "firsts," and again, the anticipation of days like this is almost always worse than the day itself. We're all looking forward to a little social distraction, but more than that, celebrating Derek with all his friends.

If you would like more information on this event, please e-mail me at jamiebella1@aol.com. If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a donation in Derek's name, visit ctf.org

You're Never Too Old...

An elderly couple walked in to Mayo Clinic here in Minnesota, found a piano, and gave an impromptu performance. Married 62 years, the gentleman is almost 90 years old- and still has a lot of bounce left in him! This video further proves that the older you get, the cooler you get :)


Chris...you have a few years to catch up to me on the piano so we can do this in a few decades :)

My Daughter Gave Me A Hickey Today.

I was on the phone. She went to town on my arm.
The red spot is further proof that I have a teething baby.
This little drooly monster will chew on ANYTHING that is in reach.
So, this mommy has been keeping all kinds of teething toys cold and at hand.

You may have heard of Sophie the Giraffe.
She is the shi-shiest of shi-shi teething toys.
And, on a recent visit to a new boutique in town, she was prominently featured.
The sales lady encouraged me to take the giraffe out and test it.
So, in an "all the cool kids are doing it" moment, I held it up for Kendall to examine.
Examine it she did...scrutinized it...then burst into tears.
Apparently she's not a fan of French giraffes.
She did, however, enjoy Sophie's "sister" dolls- Chan Pie Gnon- French mushrooms. Go figure.

They have been described as "candy for teething babies".
It has super soft rubber, a fun squeaker, and is easy to grip. Yep, "Gnon" came home with us, and has been enjoying it's slobbery head massage ever since.

LOUD NOISES!

It's times like this I feel like the universe is sabotaging me. Seriously.
Just put the baby to sleep.
Finished my workout.
Put a load of laundry in the wash.
Laid down to rest, and heard the following sounds simultaneously:

(In order of obnoxiousness...greatest to least)
1. Low-flying aircraft (thought we'd be that house you see on the evening news with the tail end of the plane sticking out of our roof for a second.)
2. Concrete mixer just pulled up across the street ("Ok guys, the baby is finally asleep. Let's get this job started.")
3. Neighbor kids screaming (seriously, the loudest kids on the planet. Cannot wait for school to start again.)
4. Dog barking (not ours)
5. Birds chirping (it was not a Snow White moment for me.)

Would anyone like to come bang a pot next to my head?
Thank GOD Kendall is sleeping through all of it.
There is, however, no QUIET in my PEACE this nap time.

Closing Up Shop.

Just prior to leaving for California, I acquired my eighth Mastitis infection. It was at that time I decided that it's probably time for me to say goodbye to breast-feeding for now. So, I'm now committed to the process of weaning. It's going well, though the emotional ramifications of the process are more intense than I had expected them to be. When I was telling this to Chris, he said "I don't get it- it's just breast-feeding. I guess I can't understand because I'm a guy."

That's right. You will never understand. There's something about cradling your baby and knowing that she's fully dependent on you. Not only for food, but that's a place of comfort. And mother-led weaning is especially difficult because she still craves that comfort when she's sleepy or scared. I am thankful that she has always been good with bottles, and is doing well in the transition. As usual, it's been much harder on me. :)

As my time nursing comes to an end, I can't help but feel like I'm letting go of that "newborn" stage, and giving my daughter the green light to grow up. I know, I know, she'll do it whether or not I stop nursing. But it's heartbreaking how fast they grow...I get choked up, too, when I go through her closet and take out the clothes she no longer fits. Just the beginning of a long string of those "moments" throughout her lifetime.

Mommies out there, how did you deal with the transition from nursing? Any words of wisdom?

Our Newest Patriot

We thoroughly enjoyed our Fourth of July celebration with the Stavengers at the Lake House. Kendall saw her first boat parade, and was mesmerized by her first sparkler. Cousins Marcus and Mallory were on hand for plenty of baby entertainment, too! Unfortunately, this sleepy girl will have to take in her first fireworks spectacular next year...those eyes just couldn't stay open.

The Family Piano

It belonged to my great-grandparents.
Now, another generation has been introduced.

With me (above) and with Kendall (below)


If pianos could talk...

Is There a CPS for CPKs?

Kendall received a Cabbage Patch doll for Christmas.
Yesterday we opened it up for her.
Cabbage Patch dolls have that wonderful smell that reminds me of childhood. I begged and begged for my Cabbage Patch Doll as a little girl- back when they were hot ticket items like Beanie Babies or Justin Bieber concert tickets. There was little I wouldn't have done to get my hands on one of those autographed butts. Am I bitter that Kendall got her first doll at two days old? Maybe a little ;)
Anyway, "Angeline Mara" is now Kendall's "adopted child" (never mind that she has more hair than Kendall).
Here is the "Oath of Adoption":
I promise to love my Cabbage Patch Kid with all of my heart. I promise to be a good and kind parent. I will always remember how special my Cabbage Patch is to me."

I have a feeling that the baby chair is edging out the baby for Kendall's affection.
Be afraid, Angeline Mara. Be very afraid.




(P.S. Chris didn't "get" the title, thinking I was using his initials, CPS. I told him most grown-ups know what CPS is. Prove me right, people.)

Oh My "Word".

My apologies for starting your day off with a little Nancy Pelosi (blech).
However, she has a valuable "word" for you (blabber, blabber).


What's YOUR favorite word? :)

Doppleganger Alert!

Sometimes, when my child makes this face, I think she bears a strong resemblance to this guy. Lost and Lord of the Rings fans will recognize him...

California...that's a wrap!

SOOOOOO excited to be in California!

First stop: U.S. Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Kendall did not want to let go of that trophy! Daddy and Grandpa met Annika Sorenson while Kendall was napping. We also talked to family friends, the Barnes', while Ricky was warming up on the putting green. Kendall minded her manners except for a little outburst by the first green, which embarrassed mommy. I nursed her behind the grandstands...lovely.

On Father's Day, Chris headed back to Duluth while Kendall and I stayed an extra week. We did a family dedication that morning at my home church, First Baptist Stockton, where Great-Grandma McBeath joined us for the occasion.

Kendall became a Niner-fan for one day only...a Father's Day surprise for Grandpa Keith.

Kendall enjoyed her first MoBand concert on this trip, too! She clapped along with fun songs, and waved to Grandpa Keith on stage.

You BETCHA this little Miss got lots of snuggle time with Grandma Donna!

I have remained close friends with many students and parents from my first Second Grade class...and a few of them got to meet Kendall this week! This is Jeffrey (J.P.), one of my favorite kiddos (shh...don't tell)- due to graduate high school next year! Ugh! How old am I?!

Another former student- Katrin- now, a beautiful young lady!

And, the wonderful Perry family- Angela and Amanda both remember 2nd grade and piano lessons with Miss Petersen :)

Kendall was quite entertained by Angela at Starbucks!

Other visitors included the Baker girls...Anne-Marie and Jillian, who stopped by on Kendall's six-month birthday.

Karen got lots of hugs, and probably a few scratches as Kendall was enthralled with her lips.

By the end of the week, I think Kendall felt right at home, supplying lots of cuddles to all her favorite people.

If It Weren't So True...

Received this video link from a friend. Post-modern-ish churchy people...what do you think?

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Funny? Convicting? Offensive?

Quelf: Obey the Card.

While in California, I got together (sans baby) with some friends for a good-ol' night of game-playing fun. The objects of entertainment were the zany shenanigans prompted by the board game QUELF. I had heard about how much fun this game was, and my inaugural round did not disappoint. The creators of this game surely were on a drug-induced mind trip when putting together the random assortment of tasks and challenges found here. In a good way, though...kinda like a Saturday morning cartoon let loose in your living room.

If you are a social games kind of person (unlike my husband, the strategist, who refuses to play Apples to Apples), the hilarity that ensues from a night of Quelf antics will keep you laughing for days!

Amanda had 30 seconds to stuff as many items into her clothing as possible.

Daniel had to find a hat with a chin-strap and wear it the rest of the game.

My turn!

Amanda became a human pretzel, having all appendages attached to neighboring opponents.

Have you tried this party game? Any others you dare to recommend?

Happy Half-Birthday To You!

Rolling over...check.
Starting solid foods...check.
Giggling...check.
Looking all cute and stuff...check.
Half-birthday party with Grandma Donna...check.
SIX MONTHS of sweetness....check!

(Thank you, Miss Sarah, for the yummy cupcakes!)