Sorry Darling, No Updates

I feel so guilty for not having documented your days and years more. I am currently trying to archive my FB updates involving you... But those are mostly just funny, silly convos. None are the heartfelt worries and challenges you present to us.

Right now, you are already sleeping as I type this. You were so sad that Pappie refuses to sleep beside you (coz Yamee is in the middle and it's BBB). I explained to you that you have to stay on my side of the bed so I can nebulize you later, and Pappie is so tired from his trip, he also just wants to get a good night's rest. I asked you to think about it, and think about Pappie's sacrifices for us too.

I still struggle in teaching you to be content... We still have a lot of good days wherein you'll end up in tears and complaining because one very small thing wasn't granted you.

But I cannot really accuse you of being selfish and discontent, because you still show enthusiasm for any little thing.

You wear size 33 shoes now... And has started wushu lessons. Unfortunately, the change in weather had your asthma attacking. I am actually very worried about your asthma, mainly that you have been on Cetirizine for the better oart of last year and all of this year. I am worried about your liver, and the med's effects on your long-term health.

We struggle with homeschooling (you are in Grade 1 now) mainly because of me. Mommy went thru a personal crisis in 2013... One that she is still trying to really overcome so she can just meet all the challenges head on. It is affecting our homeschooling because I have been ambivalent, complacent and unstructured. And the pregnancy isn't helping either.

I love you. Of course, I still do. Sometimes it is so bittersweet for me to realize how you have really let Yamee have more of me, resigned that you are the Kuya that has to give way to him. But it also makes me so proud to see you ever watchful of him, ever protective of him. I love that you have come up with your own games with him... Something that you two alone get.

You still make me smile whenever I see you curled up in a book. You can read well now but still somehow refuse to do so unless you want to. Together with Yamee, you have turned my pristine Calvin n Hobbes books into tattered ones. But how can I complain? You mastered reading when I was always in pain last year due to my gallstones...

Sometimes you will dream of becoming an explorer... But sometimes you tell me you want to stay with us rather than explore the world on your own. Sometimes, you talk about having a wife and kids of your own, already mulling over the decision of whether you will let them borrow your toys.

You are still such a very sweet child, such a very cheerful child, such a very optimistic child. And I love your growing faith in God, which I credit Awesome Kids with.

You are still missing your front upper teeth! And you are about to lose two lower ones.

I send you to buy rice or viands from the kanto all by yourself now. I also even ask you to heat water for your bath yourself. Small little things that make more self-reliant and independent.

I love you, my darling Kobe. Mommy has been lacking so much and yet you always just love me back, too. We are so lucky to gave you.

It's 2013 and You Will Be Enrolled

January 2013 almost ending, I know.

Well... it was a very busy December for us and up to now, Mommy hasn't really mastered the art of domestic chores yet. So, yes, homeschooling has been put on hold. I am so sorry son.

In the meantime. I accidentaly rekindled your fascination for dinosaurs again in a big way. For a time, you were more into superheroes and ninjas already.

You are still adjusting to nurturers having come and gone... we're now going on 3 weeks of your constant/nervous peeing after Ninang Grace left. But happiness though, a fourth of the time, you wash yourself after pooping. Pappie told you that you had to learn that this year... and just like sleeping in your own bed, you just did it. I didn't need to prod you.

You and Yamee are stretching me sooo much currently over your constant squabbles but it's also really nice that you are both at a point where you can really play together, and even gang up on me together.

And health-wise, you were the most brilliant of all because after recovering from colds, you've been clear since with no repeat incidences. Thank you for humoring me with Buteyko exercises. And much as I love you, I really have to wean you off candy.

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Miscellaneous FB Updates:

Proof that language a child is exposed to stays with them... Yakee prefers singing 6 little ducks in Spanish after hearing me play it, when he already knows rhe English version.

*~*

Yakee: Pappie, stop teasing me.
Pappie: Sorry, I just wanted to see if you will share the chocolate.
Me: Pappie was testing you, mahal.
Yakee: Eh Pappie, don't test me, I'm not a robot.

*~*

Yamee fell and hit his head, partly because Kuya pushed the bed he was hanging from. As he was inconsolably crying, Kuya kept saying sorry. At a loss, Yakee started licking the back of his hand and arm... and Yamee stopped crying while watching his brother in fascination. Then he started licking his own arm and finally smiled.

As I was trying not to barf, Yakee said, "Mommy, it's because we're cats, right?"

*~*

Yakee has seesawed between just whining, outright crying and stomping his feet (wag na isipin pano nag-seesaw sa 3 directions!) over ice cream... all because an ice cream man did not give him ice cream.

Nasanay ata sa mga birthday parties na hihingi lang sya, hindi naisip to ask me for money so he can buy. Ayan, depressed :D

Is that good or bad, Pappie Jojo?

*~*

Yakee has been at us to get his head shaved... And I like Yamee without hair... So there!



*~*

Because of a freebie mag on animals, I used the word 'blend' and that ended in a discussion of why and how animals camouflage with Yakee (homeschooling instant subject)... and though I generally veto computer use, Google Images and Youtube came in handy when he said, "Mommy, I wish I can see a chameleon changing colors."

Unfortunately though, he is now wooing me to allow him and Yamee to have a chameleon for a pet.

*~*

In the midst of washing the clothes I couldn't have the laundromat do (read: soiled and uber mucky clothes of the boys), Yakee decided to play DJ with my laptop.

Then he came to me and said, "Mommy, this is my most favorite song for you."

And then I hear the initial strains of 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight?'

Sigh.

It didn't give me energy for the laundry but it did ensure he gets yema tomorrow :D

*~*

Yakee just drew tears on Mama Mary's face (from the printed nativity scene) and told me she's crying coz she had a baby. I asked why Mama Mary would cry and he said..'because for a long time, she didn't have a baby'

Awww... I had to say a prayer for TTC couples tuloy.

*~*

Awww... I just found out that the little wooden bookmarks for Yakee's friends weren't given away this morning... Sorry Yakee's friends! I think my boys forgot in all the excitement :)



*~*

Because Yakee dropped his spoon, I asked hubs to get a spoon from the setting at a nearby empty table at Zamboanga Restaurant. After handing it to Yakee, he asked his dad, " did you steal this?"

*~*

(speaking in a hoarse voice)
Me: Iakob, could you please kiss me on my forehead?
Yakee: Aww (proceeding to grant the request). Why are you talking like that Mommy?
Me: I'm so sick anak.
Yakee: Aww... Can you go to heaven?

Wahh... Bastusan!
(ekshuli ang separation anxiety nya nagma manifest as his fear of me dying. After umalis nung last helper namin, bigla sya uli nagtatanong if I died when I gave birth, mga ganun. Eh 2 days ago, mega iyak sya when I took a separate car from them. Kaya ayan, pinapatay na naman ako!)

*~*

Both boys reached milestones tonight... Which ended in tears for the Bunso whose creation was knocked over by Kuya accidentally.

Sigh.


Yakee finished his first Ball Stick Bird book - Dec 31

*~*
Masahista told me that when she was massaging me when I had the flu, yakee would also massage me while telling me he loved me.

I have no recollection of that... But I do remember waking up coughing and finding Yakee lying down beside me, just watching me sleep.

Sigh. Proof the boys were so neglected that time.

*~*

Yakee: Mommy, let's talk where the foods I eat go to my body, ok?
Me: Ok.
Yakee: But first, let's talk why girls do not have a pututoy.

Needless to say, the best I could do was say boys and girls have differently-shaped pipes/hoses where the pee comes out.

(Kaloka eh... I first tried being technical, saying girls have a different urethra etc... Yakee said, "Oh so girls pee using their pwet?" :D So, fireman's hose it is!)

*~*

It is upsetting to watch your child grapple with the stresses of life. However, I really hope I can find a way to rid Yakee of his morbid tendencies whenever he's faced with separation anxiety... because he also tends to scare me.

Sigh.

*~*

We miss and love you...
 
 Yakee prayed 'thanks for the spaghetti from ninang Josephine and the iPad from ninang XiAh' last night.

*~*
Yakee naman is 57 duplo blocks tall!

Happy Homeschooler... Happy Breather... So Far

Right now... we are undertaking a Buteyko workshop because I really want to wean us from medicines. Unfortunately, it will require around an hour everyday (at around 20 minutes/3x/day) of your cooperation, which is really posing a challenge. I don't want to be scaring you into obedience and compliance... nor dangling bribes your way... because this is for you. Like what I told you, it's because I love you so much that I want you off the meds and just managing your body on your own.

I would be the happiest Mom on earth if this results in the end of asthma for you, forever.

Homeschooling-wise... you have fallen in love with the term. Our rhythm was disrupted this week by the Buteyko sessions but we've managed to squeeze in reading time. I'm glad that, though you get disheartened initially by big words, you still end up tackling them the following day.

And I think I can already say that all in all, you ARE really reading. (You wrote bat and pat on your own at the workshop too, that was so cute!).

I just need to provide more activities for you from now on.

*~*

You still have days where you'd be teasing your brother a lot... or even get really mad at him over a toy... but you also get really upset when you see him in trouble with me, and you always rush to defend him.

I love that you tell me when you're upset with me. I love that you trust me that much. And i'm sorry for the times I really scare you with my temper (yesterday, when I was still hopping mad at Ate Nene and shouting my way through the rage).

*~*

I have kept my dates with you pretty much... and I know you like that. Last week, you suddenly had this desire to ride an elephant so Pappie and I are now exploring ways to deliver that desire.

*~*

Miscellaneous FB updates of you...


Yakee to me: Mommy, do you know why you're very beautiful? Because I love you so much.

Then later, he asked me to guide his hand in making a heart so he can write "I love you" (sorry, I dunno how to make a heart here)... then he said, "this is for you Mommy, I love you so much".

Yesterday din, he got our neighbor to write a letter for him... and the letter basically said, "I love you so much because you love me so much."

Haha... sana this sweetness at 5 will last forever! I am basking in the pure glory of it!

-------
As karma to me letting our 7-year old neighbor babysit my kids for me, Yakee is now going around saying he has a crush (because neighbor girl has a crush on her friend) on his classmate too... and that Yamee has a crush on him because Bunso kissed Kuya.

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After getting into a cab
Driver: Sa'n daan natin Ma'am?
Me: J.P. Rizal
Yakee: Mommy, where's the jeep ni Rizal? :D
(While we were driving to school naman mahal, Iakob said that he saw Maxwell and his twin brother (which he forgot the name of the brother). Me knowing that it was also a name starting with "M", teased him, s it Mcdonalds? ... "Pappie No!", Mariano? ... "Pappie No!", Mustafa ... Pappie No he is not a vegtable (Thinking of mustasa) !!!)

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Because Yamee was throwing a tantrum during lunch (and our attempts at comforting him or distracting him weren't amounting to anything), hubs and I decided we will just let him cry it out and we'd just comfort him after he's calmed down a little.

Yakee came to us brandishing a wooden sword, looking very upset. Then, on the verge of tears, he said, "I am angry to you. I take care of my brother but the two of you don't."

Yes.... sumbatan :D

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While walking from school to Power Plant Mall a few weeks ago... we passed by a huge drawing of a peen on the wall Yakee has a habit of jumping from. Yakee said, "Oh wow, look Mommy, a drawing. I think that's Mickey Mouse."

:D

Thankfully, the vandalism WAS rather plump in its rendition, haha.

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It's more fun if you visit museums with your kids :D

(haha, sorry sa lack of reverence for the art of the Masters) —

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Yakee: Mommy, you are the Mommy grouch. I am the Kuya grouch. Yamee is the baby grouch and Pappie is the Pappie grouch. We are Spanish.

(I dunno why he insists on announcing these things.... we have been penguins, birds, cats, molehogs, etc but ngayon lang kami nagka-foreign nationality!)

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Asked hubs to get boxes from work and he also got some from MIL for our decluttering plans... but the boys have turned the balikbayan box into a slide, and the other boxes into tunnels and 'grouch' homes...

so.. pano na?

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Let's just say... you each have your own brand of naughtiness :)

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Yakee just talked in his sleep... and said... "I will just stay here and wait for you, ha, Mama"

Awww... now I feel guilty already for possibly having to leave the house many times next week!

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Yakee: Mommy, I know 3 things from you.
1. Do not play with the eggs (he means the uncooked ones)
2. Do not rip the box (because I tell him they become useless), and
3. Do not run away from you (in public, because he might get into accidents or someone might snatch him)

Yes... in 5 years, yan lang naituro ko sa kanya :D

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I seriously hope that getting hit in the head by a book by your child... because you suggested for him to stop learning to read for the day... isn't part of regular homeschooling...

Hayst.
(I scolded him syempre and reminded him of rules 1) never hit, and 2) books are sacred. Then I explained why I was suggesting we stop. I explained na him being restless is his body's way of telling him he has to move.

Then I reminded him of our new homeschooling rules... 1) we homeschool everyday, 2) other activities are part of homeschooling... so he need not be scared we're not going to read or count or paint again, and that play is part of homeschooling nga)

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Yakee told me last week na he wants, even if he can read already, for me to still read to him sometimes. Yinakap ko ng todo syempre and sinabihan na I want that too

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Yakee put on a puppet show for us. I wasn't sure which was more wonderful... his attempts at storytelling that way, or the wonder in Yamee's eyes as he watched his Kuya.

You Are Now 5

 

You LOVED celebrating your birthday and would only-too-happy remind us that you will celebrate 3 times... the lunch with Pappie's family, the one at St. Michael and the trip to the robot zoo.

 

I also noticed that you were just sooo sweet and more eager to please coming into your birthday... and at my PTC with Tita Maricar, she echoed how you took charge of playing with and being patient with Dejan because you knew the others aren't as patient with him. That's Big Brother attitude and we love you for it. Tita and I also noticed how calmer you are generally, and she reassured me that you can deliver on instructions.

 

As at home, you don't like drawing at school but like painting... Tita also said you don't like playing house much there and still prefer physical activity.

 

You were sick days before our birthdays and just ended your medication and nebulizing tonight. Sigh. But as always, you were a trooper.

 

I had to spank you the other day for pushing Yamee off the sofa... which resulted in him hitting his head on the floor. I write that now here to let you know that you still get spanked (though very rarely now), you still have moments of overexcited hands... and juxtapose that to how loving you are as a brother (you'd often need to be reassured that Yamee was okay without you, you insist on getting hugs from him when you get home from school, you like playing with Yamee and would go berserk when he doesn't want to play).

 

Now... you are living for the Robot Zoo trip and the Bohol trip, because you're excited to see the tarsier.

 

========================

 

Miscellaneous FB Updates :)

 

 

Two moms I spent time with last weekend just recently found out that they're preggers... for their third child.

God... I am not taking this as a sign!!! Not even with Yakee having told me earlier that Yamee grew in my tummy because he asked God for a playmate.

 

*~*

 

I think I will really invest in these multi scarves just so they can play pirate and ninja in style :D

 

 

*~*

 

Me: Know what, we might be going to Museong Pambata with some of mommy's friends (talking of a Rockers plan to play date there).
Yakee: Good mommy. You know there is a computer there, but it's a different computer. It's a key computer. When you press the keys, some will get stuck. So, I will pull at them and they will not be stuck anymore. Then, I will press again and the keys will get stuck again.
(after thinking long and hard)
Me: Oh darling, that isn't a computer. That's a typewriter you're talking about.

:D

I think it's time I bring out our old one...

 

*~*

 

Yakee: Mommy, when is Ninang Josephine coming back?
Me: Oh baby, she's coming back after a long time... you will be seven years old by then.
Yakee: Hmmm... then I will be a man, and when Ninang comes back, she will say..."where is my Iakob" because she will not know it's me. Because i'm already so big.
Me: Yes, probably.
Yakee: Yes, Mommy... I will be a man that time and taking care of Yamee.

*~*

Yakee: Pappie, when I grow up, I will be a big man like you.
Pappie: Yes.
Yakee: Then I will marry Mommy.
Pappie: No, Mommy is married to me already. You will find someone to marry.

(all this talk of growing up... maybe because he's turning 5 in 3 weeks' time)

 

*~*

While trying to explain to Yakee that we need to do something that will still allow me to draw pictures of Yamee's feet... he said, "Mommy, I wish you have more hands so that you can do everything with me and Yamee."

Since he wanted to play luksong-tinik, I told him I needed more than extra hands for that.

*~*

While reading Apolakus (an Adarna House purchase from the MIBF which I really love), I paused to ask him, "How would you feel if other kids took away your lunch?"

Yakee replied, "Oh it's ok Mommy, there are no enemies at my school. Nobody will get my food."

(yes, my son is assured he'd get to eat at @St St Michael Playhouse Makati because they all even help in food preparation)

 

*~*

 

And just like that... without me prompting him, teaching him, terrifying him, training him or bribing him... Yakee can read CVC words and even wrote BAT on his own.

It won't be a big deal to those who are following the more traditional way of preparing their kids for school... but it is proof that barring special needs and limitations, children will bloom beautifully on their own, without 'interventions' from parents and educational programs. (sept 19)

*~*

Their current brotherly trick is jumping from the headboard of our bed together...

*~*

This is a fire hydrant just past Ateneo Business school (?) in the Rockwell area which we pass by when I fetch him from St Michael... he's really bummed my Android phone broke because I can't take pics of him there anymore.

*~*

I dressed the boys in matching pyjamas (gift from Ninang Karla last Christmas). Yakee said, "Mommy, I think we should make Ninang XiAh see us on webcam."

I said... "Oh sorry baby, Mommy's laptop is broken, that's why I couldn't work all day."

Yakee said, "Ahhh... so you can play with us!"

Laya can I plead 'birthday blues' to my children to justify the extended PC use? No? Awwww.... :D

*~*

In the dark, while nursing Yamee and caressing Yakee to sleep... Yakee says, "Mommy? I am making a heart shape with my hands. It's for you because I love you so much."

Sigh. I think Yakee will kill me with sweetness sometimes, haha.

*~*

Hubby's post:
Iakob my dear son... 5 years have gone just like that. Be as sweet and as loving always! Happy Birthday Panganay!

*~*

Earlier....
Me: You know, when I was a little girl, i loved camote so much. I like it when it's still piping hot and I'd remove the skin and then mash it with butter and sugar. I'd eat it like that.
Yakee: That's good Mommy. That's a nice dream.

I really laughed so hard... yes, at 35, your childhood somehow feels like it was all a dream.

*~*

Instead of stressing myself in creating banners and what-nots for Yakee to wake up to tomorrow... I chose instead to cram and work on his birthday story.

Unfortunately, I am doing more crying than writing. I am doing more reminiscing than writing.

And in the background, Yamee is hooting.

*~*

He was perfectly created and is growing up beautifully... thank you, darling, for making better persons out of me and Pappie

*~*

Yakee: But Mommy, when you and Pappie sleep together, that is so BAD! (with matching tears)

Nope... he hasn't caught us in the act, he is just trying to argue his way back into the family bed and doesn't care who he ousts, me or his father. Eh, I told him Pappie and Mommy cannot sleep apart :D

*~*

There isn't a perfect hacky sack here... I struggled till the end (and there are many rejects, haha). But Yakee was in mind the whole time I was making them... of all the years we have been blessed by him. And so, I hope his friends will still enjoy them :)

Thanks to St Michael Playhouse Makati for letting us celebrate our son's birthday with them.

*~*

Hubby Jojo had the idea of gifting Yakee with something that appeals to the senses (wahaha, told him in Waldorf, there's 12 senses, so he's got a theme na till Yakee turns 17).

He bought him new binoculars and this.

The prob now is... how do we bring it to Bohol without breaking it? :D

'Reading' Now

It's your greatest accomplishment and milestone for the month of August: pretending to read by repeating to us the stories we read from your books. Your father is sort of trying to inspire me to finally teach you to read but I still haven't done it. I will do it after your 5th birthday... after St. Michael. After your brain has reorganized.

Plus, a part of me wants to honor this 'pretense' at reading and just let you be... to see which stories have really become  a part of you... to see how much you've committed to memory... and how long this will last.

You're back to not liking it going to school and I think it's because there is so few of you now in the half-day class. What propels you out of bed is the idea that getting through a day will get you closer and closer to Date Day and Watch Day (which is Friday).

You've been asking for a skateboard and I have mandated that you have to learn to ride a proper bike first. Pappie is doing his research on how to keep you safe on a skateboard, should that be something you really want to do in the future.

Oh... you also like pretending a lot that you're studying, writing/drawing continuous zigzags on a notebook you got from Oona. It's really quite cute.

And you were so happy gardening with Pappie... so, when the cat pooped on the planter, I just had to give you a new hope in new and more plants. Hopefully, your brother will stop picking them for us to harvest something.

I know it's unfair sometimes when I ask you to model good behavior for your brother... but I also appreciate all the effort I see in you when you try for patience and gentleness. Most of all, I like it that you are your brother's greatest defender.

I love you, Panganay. I really do. I thank God for you everyday and pray that we will always be close.

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Miscellaneous FB updates:

May plano kang layas... magkakasinat ang anak. So, hindi ka na aalis. Tapos yung anak mong may sakit, mas maingay pa sa kinakatay na baboy pag naglalaro.

Ganun talaga.

Kaso naman anak, sa lamay naman ako dapat pupunta.

Next time, ha?

*~*

(annoyed because Yakee kept slowing us down)

Me: Mahal, come on, hurry up please. Mommy has to be somewhere so we don't have much time for our date. Time is precious.
Yakee: No, YOU'RE precious. You are the precious one and you're MY precious.

Shucks... syempre, I extended the date... ako pala si ring that binds them all eh!

*~*
while sobbing)
Yakee: Mommy, when you leave me alone, it always breaks my heart.

(another one)
Me: Are you scared that I might die and not come back when I go away somewhere?
Yakee: Yes, because if you die... then I will keep on waiting and waiting for a long time.

My SIL's mother's passing recently got me thinking of morbid possibilities... and Yakee unfortunately picks up on them like an empath. He kept crying when I went to the wake a few days ago... and couldn't sleep tonight, upset, because I attended the burial earlier.

Hayst. (posted Aug. 19)

He calmed down lang (after a long dialogue and lots of hugs and tear-wiping) when I told him that God calls us all back to His side... and he decided that if he's back in heaven, he will play there.

*~*

Yakee 'read' to us last night by reciting stories from memory... he later told us he could READ because he immitated how I sounded (very Waldorf, right St Michael?). Pappie and I absolutely burst with pride and joy... and that bittersweet feeling when a child crosses yet another threshold. (posted Aug 23)

YES... all the bumps and falls and crashes didn't damage their brains!
(You read Curious George and the Dog Show... and Si Pagong at si Matsing that first night and we haven't really read to you 95% of the time since... I actually really miss it)

*~*
Playing with the birthday ring with mahjong-like movements... hmmm...

*~*

Yakee to Yamee: If you cannot sign or talk, I will not let you borrow my toys.

tsk. pressure!

================

You're not just sweet with Ninang Grace, lately, you have also been expressing sadness and longing for Ninang Gang.

Proving Abilities

Your swimming lessons got delayed, you had to start last May 4 (Batch 4 of Snapper 1 with BLSS) because it took a month for you to be free of colds from our trip. And there were no rewards or acknowledgments of mastery for you for this class... but that's ok, Because you're the youngest in your class and you're doing it anyway, swimming, that is.

My heart went out to you when your instructor kept telling you to stop bending your knees as you kick. And as always, you were just so excited about everything, getting you to focus was a challenge. But again, you did great. I kept getting amazed that you were really swimming :)

And during our Visayas trip... I was also so very proud of you (so very worried and nervous too) when you went up the lighthouse even though you were scared, or walking down planks to peer through the deep sea for big fishes, or crossing makeshift bamboo bridges to get to a private beach pocket...

You are 4.5 years old and proving you're able... able to help, able to converse, able to think of solutions (you suggested we make copies of the picture of Ate May so we could find her), able to cope (Ninang has been gone for a month now but aside from some minor wee accidents, you've been okay).

And oh, you've been showing me how much you want friends in your life... regular playmates, not just Mommy (too big) or Yamee (too small). Just today, you told me you want your St. Michael friends... which means, if I am going to homeschool you, i'd really have to find you a regular gig to interact with kids. Preferably, not over anything structured.

I thank God that you are growing able... and I am sorry if I sometimes try to deny you opportunities to show me how able you are. I am sorry for being impatient sometimes. And thank you, for always kissing me with gusto.

Love you kid.

==========================

My FB updates about you since Feb 1:

a few days ago

Yakee: Pappie, who is that boy again? The one with the guitar and wearing glasses?
Pappie: Which boy, baby?
Yakee: The one on the stage? When we went to see the dragons?
- after much thought, Pappie Jojo bursts out laughing -
Pappie: Uhh, Iakob, that is not a boy. That's Aiza Seguerra. You only thought she's a boy because she has short hair and dressed as a boy.

*~*
overheard son singing

Yakee: Just like a bear, i'll take you there!

Uhmmm... not sure how Pappie Jojo would feel about our son singing Madonna songs, misheard lyrics pa!
*~*

On our way home while riding a jeep, a boy gets on and starts distributing envelopes to ask for money.

In a loud voice, Yakee turns to me and says, "Mommy, look, a boy with no family!"

*~*

Because of the discussions at class earlier, I was mulling over the possibility of dying with my sons so young (in my head) while holding Yakee close. After a while, he turned to me and told me that if I die, and Pappie dies, Yamee will cry so much and he will miss me so much.

Then he started wiping his tears, clearly upset.

I'm sorry my love... I forgot how sensitive you are... and that I shouldn't think of such things when I'm holding you close.

*~*

I heard Yakee say he's going to play with Justin Bieber. I turned to see him manipulating a toy beaver :D
*~*

Yakee has lately been using "TUMMY ACHE" as a reason not to do something he likes or finish his food.

*~*

Me: Do you want to become a vampire?
Yakee: No, Mommy.
Me: A werewolf then?
Yakee: No, Mommy. You will be scared of me, and I don't want you to be scared of me.
*~*

Waking up, Yakee wanted to just cuddle with me. Yamee woke up, saw us, and immediately hit his brother. Thus, our morning has been a series of fights between the two... and I am wondering which ones I lock up inside a room, them or me.

Sigh.

But having more than one child really gets a parent appreciating what "unique" and "individual" means.

*~*

(while settling down for afternoon nap)
Yakee: Mommy, I have a surprise for you.
Me: What is it?
Y (touching my tummy): There is a baby in your tummy! We're going to have a baby again.
Me: Oh, do you really want us to have another baby?
Y: Yes!
Me: I don't think I can take care of you and Yamee if we have one more baby. Remember when I was pregnant with Yamee, I wasn't feeling well all the time, ...I couldn't take care of you.
(pause)
Y: When Yamee and I are bigger, you will have another baby and we will take care of him. And we will name him Yamnyel.
Me: Why Yamnyel?
Y: Because Yamee is already Yamnyoy... and Yamnyel will be a girl.

Pappie Jojo, your son ha!

*~*

The second time we met, I took Pappie Jojo here... almost 6 years after, we got married in the small chapel here.

Now... it's the place to bring our energetic sons to.

Suffice it to say that Paco Park will always be magical for us...

*~*

Last night, Yakee kept playing while I was reading to him so I stopped. He begged for me to continue reading but I put my foot down, otherwise, he'd just continue not paying attention and the importance of the ritual will be lost.

He was so bent out of shape at not being read to... that he fell asleep with the book open to the page we were reading, after alternating between "I don't love you" and "i'm sorry" last night. Then every 2 hours or so, he'd wake to ask to be read to.
Suffice it to say, we both didn't get a good rest... and I'm reconsidering going to Logos Hope. Enforcing discipline is sooooooooo exhausting!

*~*

Haay... Yakee kept insisting we go back to ride MV Logos Hope as it sails. Kids absolutely had a great time...

*~*

We greatly appreciate the loot sent through this box, Lola, Lolo and Ninang XiAh ... but the box is really the priceless gift... we keep having a grand time because of it!

- Yakee and Yamee

*~*

I believe this is the first time that Yamee kissed anyone of his own volition... and he chose to kiss his brother.

I told Yakee.."see Kuya, I think Yamee kissed you first because he loves you best" to which my eldest replied, "yes, he loves me because I share my toys" :)

*~*

I just had to sit on the floor and watch my sons perform for me... painful as it was, I did not prompt Yakee to sing properly, I did not nudge Yamee to move so he won't fall off the sofa bed, I did not sing along with them, I did not get my camera. I just relished the moment and the boys just enjoyed having all of me.

It's sooooooo hard not to intervene but it's also soooooo very beautiful when a parent doesn't.

*~*

While waiting for our luggage at the airport, Yamee starts approaching the conveyor belt. Yakee shouts, "Yamee do not go there. You're not a bag."

*~*

While frantically cleaning Yamee's crayon masterpieces off our new floor... Yakee offered to help and said, "Mommy, i'm pretending we're cleaning a rocket ship."

naks!

*~*

Tita XiAh, here's a picture to hurry you in going back to the Philippines. Don't let us keep growing pogi without you... Ice, Yakee and Yamee :)

*~*

May tatalo pa kaya sa kissable lips nya? :D

*~*

Overheard.

Yakee: "Yamee, go inside. You've stepped on so many ants and now they're dead. I will look for the ant cemetery now, go inside."

Good luck, anak!

*~*

Yakee is 54 Duplo blocks tall :)

*~*

I wish there are words to capture the reaction Yakee had for this moving storybook I made (partida, I am not really artsy). As I showed him the moving parts, I saw how he unconsciously realized yet again how much he is loved... talk about c...aptivated! His brother just wanted to run away with the 'boys'.

How much more kaya if he sees the castle-dragon-knight storyboard? Naks... baka maluha na anak ko.

*~*

Yakee: Pappie, look, I have so many ouchies. Who is I, ha Pappie, if I have many ouchies?
Pappie Jojo: I don't know, who are you?
Yakee: I'm Papa Jesus. Because I have so many ouchies like him...

feeling! haha

*~*

Because he's seeing me do all the chores now, and a lot of cooking than he's used to, Yakee told me last night: "Mommy, you are the best. You are our helper too! I love you, Mommy."

And then, while praying... he says, "Papa Jesus, please let us find a new helper."

*~*
Too cute... saw Yakee playing with a flashlight, pretending it's a rocket and only turning it on upon take off.

*~*

Great. Both boys eperimenting on how to break the electric fan through the use of paper, small toys, pens, etc.

*~*

Ninang Josephine, sinamantala ni Mommy na hindi ka na makakakontra sa gupit na gusto nya para sa'min... pero bagay naman diba? In love ka pa din? :)

*~*

Yakee's playmates (2 girls) decided to bring out their dolls (and accessories) so my son had to watch them comb their dolls' hair. After 3 minutes or so, he comes in to get something to change the tune of their play: a HK Disneyland map.

*~*

While putting sunscreen on Yakee

Y: Awww, Mommy, you're so scratchy. I think it's your hands... you're like a bug.

*ouch*
Eczema, I hate you!

*~*

STRESS... Yakee inserted a bead he found in a nostril and was showing off to Yamee... and it got stuck.

The mom in me was super upset as I was trying to get it out... but I also couldn't help but remember someone I knew whose son inserted a battery up his nose, so I also couldn't help but laugh at how typical this incident is... so Yakee also kept laughing while crying as I pushed the bead out.

Hay Pappie Jojo... your sons ha!
(I say sons 'coz Yamee just wrote on his face again)

*~*

At the beginning of this year... I titled a blog post for Yakee with "It's 2012 and You Will Learn to Read". I initially planned on teaching him early, but as I knew more, I delayed it further. And now, I may even delay it some more... even if I already have these.

We'll see how ready he is... and up to what extent he is ready. Meanwhile, I shall shop for Waldorf Alphabet books :)

*~*

After I came home yesterday from the Radyo Inquirer guesting, Yakee presented me with a brown paper bag with the outline of his and Yamee's hands... spa products bought by hubby Jojo Arevalo :)

He originally intended to make a hacky sack for me, but then decided my hands needed extra moisturing... and well, he didn't know which yarn to get or something :D

*~*
The best happy problem in the world for a mom... having your boys compete for reading time with you.

*~*

Yakee's phrase yesterday: Camouflage Axe.

Asked him what it was and showed me by putting his toy axe in front of him and started acting like a soldier peering through leaves, or warriors in the jungle covered with leaves for cover.

At least he has a working knowledge of camouflage, haha!

*~*

2-in1 Kaloka

Yakee: "Mommy, why isn't there a baby girl growing in your bilbil?"

*~*

Last night, because Pappie Jojo wasn't home yet, Yakee prayed, "Papa Jesus, please take care of Pappie and keep him safe because he is not yet home."

But when I was out late last Wednesday night, he prayed, "Papa Jesus, please take care of Mommy because I don't want her to die."

Not sure if mata-touch ako or what :D



My FB updates about you




*~*

*~*

*~*

*~*

*~*

*~*
The second time we met, I took Pappie Jojo here... almost 6 years after, we got married in the small chapel here.

Now... it's the place to bring our energetic sons to.

Suffice it to say that Paco Park will always be magical for us...
*~*
Last night, Yakee kept playing while I was reading to him so I stopped. He begged for me to continue reading but I put my foot down, otherwise, he'd just continue not paying attention and the importance of the ritual will be lost.

He was so bent out of shape at not being read to... that he fell asleep with the book open to the page we were reading, after alternating between "I don't love you" and "i'm sorry" last night. Then every 2 hours or so, he'd wake to ask to be read to.
Suffice it to say, we both didn't get a good rest... and I'm reconsidering going to Logos Hope. Enforcing discipline is sooooooooo exhausting!
*~*
We greatly appreciate the loot sent through this box, Lola, Lolo and Ninang XiAh ... but the box is really the priceless gift... we keep having a grand time because of it!

- Yakee and Yamee
*~*
I believe this is the first time that Yamee kissed anyone of his own volition... and he chose to kiss his brother.
I told Yakee.."see Kuya, I think Yamee kissed you first because he loves you best" to which my eldest replied, "yes, he loves me because I share my toys" :)
*~*

I just had to sit on the floor and watch my sons perform for me... painful as it was, I did not prompt Yakee to sing properly, I did not nudge Yamee to move so he won't fall off the sofa bed, I did not sing along with them, I did not get my camera. I just relished the moment and the boys just enjoyed having all of me.

It's sooooooo hard not to intervene but it's also soooooo very beautiful when a parent doesn't.

*~*
While waiting for our luggage at the airport, Yamee starts approaching the conveyor belt. Yakee shouts, "Yamee do not go there. You're not a bag."
*~*

While frantically cleaning Yamee's crayon masterpieces off our new floor... Yakee offered to help and said, "Mommy, i'm pretending we're cleaning a rocket ship."

naks!

*~*

Tita XiAh, here's a picture to hurry you in going back to the Philippines. Don't let us keep growing pogi without you... Ice, Yakee and Yamee :)

*~*

May tatalo pa kaya sa kissable lips nya? :D

*~*

Overheard.

Yakee: "Yamee, go inside. You've stepped on so many ants and now they're dead. I will look for the ant cemetery now, go inside."

Good luck, anak!
*~*

 Yakee is 54 Duplo blocks tall :)
*~*

I wish there are words to capture the reaction Yakee had for this moving storybook I made (partida, I am not really artsy). As I showed him the moving parts, I saw how he unconsciously realized yet again how much he is loved... talk about c...aptivated! His brother just wanted to run away with the 'boys'.

How much more kaya if he sees the castle-dragon-knight storyboard? Naks... baka maluha na anak ko.

 

*~*
Yakee: Pappie, look, I have so many ouchies. Who is I, ha Pappie, if I have many ouchies?
Pappie Jojo: I don't know, who are you?
Yakee: I'm Papa Jesus. Because I have so many ouchies like him...

feeling! haha
*~*
Because he's seeing me do all the chores now, and a lot of cooking than he's used to, Yakee told me last night: "Mommy, you are the best. You are our helper too! I love you, Mommy."

And then, while praying... he says, "Papa Jesus, please let us find a new helper."

*~*

 Too cute... saw Yakee playing with a flashlight, pretending it's a rocket and only turning it on upon take off.
*~*

Great. Both boys eperimenting on how to break the electric fan through the use of paper, small toys, pens, etc.
*~*

Ninang Josephine, sinamantala ni Mommy na hindi ka na makakakontra sa gupit na gusto nya para sa'min... pero bagay naman diba? In love ka pa din? :)

*~*

Yakee's playmates (2 girls) decided to bring out their dolls (and accessories) so my son had to watch them comb their dolls' hair. After 3 minutes or so, he comes in to get something to change the tune of their play: a HK Disneyland map.

*~*

While putting sunscreen on Yakee

Y: Awww, Mommy, you're so scratchy. I think it's your hands... you're like a bug.

*ouch*
Eczema, I hate you!

*~*

STRESS... Yakee inserted a bead he found in a nostril and was showing off to Yamee... and it got stuck.

The mom in me was super upset as I was trying to get it out... but I also couldn't help but remember someone I knew whose son inserted a battery up his nose, so I also couldn't help but laugh at how typical this incident is... so Yakee also kept laughing while crying as I pushed the bead out.

Hay Pappie Jojo... your sons ha!
(I say sons 'coz Yamee just wrote on his face again)

*~*

At the beginning of this year... I titled a blog post for Yakee with "It's 2012 and You Will Learn to Read". I initially planned on teaching him early, but as I knew more, I delayed it further. And now, I may even delay it some more... even if I already have these.

We'll see how ready he is... and up to what extent he is ready. Meanwhile, I shall shop for Waldorf Alphabet books :)

*~*

After I came home yesterday from the Radyo Inquirer guesting, Yakee presented me with a brown paper bag with the outline of his and Yamee's hands... spa products bought by hubby Jojo Arevalo :)

He originally intended to make a hacky sack for me, but then decided my hands needed extra moisturing... and well, he didn't know which yarn to get or something :D


*~*

 The best happy problem in the world for a mom... having your boys compete for reading time with you.

*~*

Yakee's phrase yesterday: Camouflage Axe.

Asked him what it was and showed me by putting his toy axe in front of him and started acting like a soldier peering through leaves, or warriors in the jungle covered with leaves for cover.

At least he has a working knowledge of camouflage, haha!

*~*

2-in1 Kaloka

Yakee: "Mommy, why isn't there a baby girl growing in your bilbil?"

*~*

Last night, because Pappie Jojo wasn't home yet, Yakee prayed, "Papa Jesus, please take care of Pappie and keep him safe because he is not yet home."

But when I was out late last Wednesday night, he prayed, "Papa Jesus, please take care of Mommy because I don't want her to die."

Not sure if mata-touch ako or what :D

He's a Big Kid Now

POOP TALK

Last Friday, November 5, you were just wearing shorts for you had already pooped and I have been training you to really just tell us if you need to pee in the potty when you excitedly told me that you wanted to poop. For a minute there I didn't know what to do so I just asked if you'd do it in the potty (because you never agreed to it before and always insisted that you're wearing a diaper when you poop, sometimes, you won't even do it unless you're home here in Paco) and you said YES.

You managed to keep everything in and just let go after I have seated you in the potty seat.

And just like that, you pooped in the potty for real. And of course, we were so proud!

Then, Sunday, while Pappie was pooping, you told me again that you had to go. Good thing your potty seat was outside and I got you to sit there and you did your business. It sort of scandalized you to be hearing your poop hit plastic though, and not water but still, again, you pooped in a potty.

I just hope your brother's coming won't dampen your drive to go potty in the potty. I'd really love to not have to keep buying diapers for you, you know. We can save up the money and buy Lego sets instead, hehe.

*~*

VERBAL DEVELOPMENT

Once, a week or two ago, you jumped/dived on Pappie which ended up hurting him. He scolded you and you reasoned out. You said, "But I am a super hero eh, I am flying." :) Pappie then had to acknowledge that he understands you are a superhero but reminded you that superheroes don't hurt people. He gave you permission to fly as much as you want if you'd be careful and not hurt anybody.

You are really very talkative now. You're still apt to be contrary and reverse psychology still works with you, but you also tend to reason out more now. You also never fail to remind me to be proud of you, for outting on your socks all by yourself, or removing your shoes/socks all by yourself.

*~*

A few days ago, I told you that soon, my tummy will be small again. Then you asked, "And I can sit on your lap again?" :)

So sometimes, I would allow you to sit there even if it's a real discomfort. And during Mass, I encouraged you to be on my lap and to take your nap there in my arms. I had to hand you over to your father after a while but it was really bittersweet how I haven't held you like that in my arms for a long time now. Usually, you'd sleep beside me, even in the car, and not anymore in my arms. And as my tummy grew and we instructed you to defend it and protect it, that kind of closeness has been deprived us both.

It was a privilege holding you like that for over two years, Yakee, and I really missed it. I am sorry you missed it too. But you do know I love you right?

*~*

I worry about the coming days where we'd all have to adjust to Yamee. But somehow, you have reassured me time and again that you are really aware of a baby on the way, and that you will be a good big brother to him. Yamee is so lucky. We are so lucky that you're you.

Yakee's Milestones

You have been sleeping mostly on your own for almost a month now. We made your bed August 11 and asked you to sleep there and you did, without fuss and fanfare. About a week into the arrangement you started asking to go back to the big bed but would still really sleep in your bed. And then sometimes you'd insist on having one of us sleep with you there. Pappie usually obliges you and just transfers to the big bed after you've fallen asleep. And then in the wee hours of the morning, you'd join us in the big bed, usually just before Pappie wakes up.

I welcome you into my arms when you do join us in the mornings because I do miss your warmth. Pappie and I have gotten used to having somebody separating us that we still sleep near the edge of the bed to make room for you.

*~*

Out of happiness last night, you thought to dive-push Mommy. Unfortunately, we were on the stairs and Mommy almost fell. Mommy was sooo scared and you could tell Mommy was really upset when Mommy scolded you about it.

When we settled down in your bed for bedtime reading, you chose the "I'm a big brother book" :)

*~*

Some of Mommy's FB status about you:

Mommy is turning son into a Potterhead. Ask Yakee what he likes and he'd say, "Hairy Potter and the Big Snake" :D

Mommy wondered aloud what Yakee will wear to a costume bday party and hubs said to ask Yakee. He asked Yakee, "What do you want your costume to be, baby?" to which Yakee replied, "A butterfly!" SILENCE FOLLOWED then Pappie asked, "What's your next option mahal?" to which Yakee replied, "Uhmmm... a bee!" (ask Yakee pala ha!!!)

Mommy was showing the linea negra on her tummy to Yakee, and he says, "wow, like a fireman's pole"

Mommy left her son to watch a centipede in the sink, he used the end of his toothbrush to kill it. How mean! (really son, I hope you'd learn to be gentle with creatures... we only kill mice and cockroaches!)

Yakee turned to me and said, "Mommy where are the girls? I want the girls." (yung Miss U pageant) :D (You still like watching the opening to see the girls in national costumes 'coz you like the ones in butterfly outfits)

Yakee singing the Toy Story theme song..."I forgot a friend in me... I forgot a friend in me..."

realized there are things a mother's love can't deliver... like Yakee asking her to make him a girl :D (this was because you wanted to play with Tita Grace's makeup and Ninang Gang told you it's only for girls)

*~*

You look more like Pappie when your hair was longer, but now that it's cut clean, you look more like Mommy.

You also seemed to be gaining more weight with Pedzinc and Incremin but you like Vidaylin vitamins and haven't gotten sick since you started on that. Mommy's just having issues with your constipation, usually coz of grapes and partly coz of potty training (as you won't poop without a diaper on)

Toilet Humor And Success

At SM Manila, you insisted on following Ninang to the ladies room. Curious about all the girls going in and out of the cubicles, you told Ninang, "Why are they hiding ha, Ninang? Why are they hiding? They scared? It's ok, let's wait. We'll hide too."

*~*

Ninang removed your diaper because she found poop in it. You were raging about it so I said that you might not yet be finished. Then she didn't put a diaper on you just yet, since we are toilet training you.

You weren't finished yet, just like what Mommy thought and you told Ninang you're going to poop. You succesfully pooped in the toilet bowl but wasn't used to really pooping that way so Ninang got you off the bowl when you were still straining. So a poop particle fell on the CR floor and you were scandalized by that. After washing you and sending you off to the bed to wait for her, you had another accident on the floor. You got scandalized again.

Still, that's a potty success right there. We really just have to get you used to your potty chair so you can take all the time you need to poop properly.

Miscellaneous Updates

Yesterday, you showed a concept of money by asking Pappie for coins and attempting to hand it over as payment for your popcorn. Unfortunately, Mommy wasn't there to witness the moment because Mommy was sick.

*~*

THAT IS SO SAD MOMENTS

1) When I was telling you the story of how Matsing wouldn't share any bananas to pagong, you blurted that out.

2) While I was taking a bath to prepare for my hospital confinement and telling you that Mommy and Pappie have to go to the doctor because Mommy is sick... and we have to leave you behind, you blurted that out.

*~*

It wasn't your first popsicle but when Pappie bought and gave you one last Saturday, you were pleading for another one. You were so cute.

*~*

You caught and officially killed a cockroach on your own last week. It was actually dying already and you were gleeful trying to catch it with your slipper. Ninang had to save it from being smashed by you.

*~*

Attracted by my boobs, you specifically asked to nurse last Friday, i think. I couldn't turn you away so I let you latch. You still know how to suckle but really don't want to anymore, you found it funny. I am very sore so I told you we had to stop.

*~*

You have been sleeping on your own all the time now. I still have to sometimes threaten you to settle don but it's really a lot easier for you to fall asleep now.

*~*

Because of the story "Ang Barumbadong Bus", when you feel you're having too much to drink, you say, "Mommy, I am drunk."

*~*

Saturday night was the first time you pooped and told me immediately after that you did.

*~*

You still love Eency Weency Spider and me tickling you.

*~*

Conversation last April 27:
Me: You ready to get up?
Yakee: Not yet.
Me: You want milk?
Yakee: Not yet.
Me: You want kisses?
Yakee: Yes, yes!!! (after the kiss)
Me: Will you behave all day and listen?
Yakee: Not yet also. (we spent the better part of an hour just cuddling and trying to wake up, love it)

No Updates Doesn't Mean No Milestones

Mommy has just really been busy about being pregnant, Baby. Mommy is often sick and dizzy and weak and restless.

I am sad to say, it has affected our relationship, causing a strain to it as you grow more energetic and engaging and demanding. I do feel bad about our time being compromised but I guess this is your first lesson on the other side of what makes a family a family: the sacrifices.

In the earlier days of this month, I would often have no energy to read to you at night, so I'd just read one book and call it a night. But I started feeling better as we both got better and finished our medicines. We have even established a new morning routine: I will take off your socks and you will take off mine. That's on top of the kisses and sometimes morning reading.

You're on vitamins everyday now, per your latest pedia's advice. she also kept giving you lollipops when we visit so now you're actually always excited at the prospect of going to the doctor's. The last time we were there, while Mommy was also consulting with her OB, you told Ninang about how delicious and tasty the lollipop is, and refused to give Ninang a taste. You told her to go to the doctor instead.

You still love your candy medicine, the Montemax chewable one, and we're down to our last four. I guess you just really love the thought of having candy.

Just last night, because Mommy was really not in the mood and you were making it hard for Mommy to dress you up again, Mommy turned out the lights on us without reading to you and putting socks on you. Poor you, you slept holding your socks. I did put them on you when I woke up just now. And I vow to be more consistent in my discipline of you now so that you'd cooperate better.

You still navigate the entire bed when you sleep, causing Pappie and me our sleep sometimes because you like curling up in the most inappropriate of places.

You started swimming lessons again last Wednesday. I think the long wait and anticipation got you super excited, you refused to listen to the instructors. You kept kicking in the water and giggling. Mommy really hopes to survive this.

But darling, do know that I love you. More than life itself. And I am proud that you're getting used to wearing briefs now. I just have to remember to make you pee in the potty every hour because you still don't tell me in advance that you're going to pee.

I am also happy that you somehow seem to have an idea that Yamee is a baby inside Mommy's tummy. And do know it breaks my heart when I have to turn you away or Pappie has to scold you to stay away from Mommy because you're being overly rough on Mommy (all your dancing makes Mommy nauseated aside from you always ending up hurting Mommy). I hope you will master your own strength someday because you really are a strong boy.

2 feet, 10 inches tall and 12.2 kgs. You wear a size 24 shoe.

The Sorry Look and PJ Milestone

Tuesday or Wednesday night, I think, you asked for hot milk. But you were watching the TV and not minding your cup and managed to spill all the milk. You said sorry in the saddest voice, while signing as well. I couldn't scold about you not minding your cup because I was nauseous. And Pappie didn't scold you either and just cleaned up the mess.

*~*

On our way to Laiya last Friday, you probably started feeling woozy and couldn't quite tell me. You grew quiet though. Then you hugged Mommy and barfed. I started barfing as well, of course.

Then you started saying sorry with the sorriest of faces. Pappie and I didn't scold you and reassured you many times that it's ok. I mean, we couldn't really scold you anyway for feeling sick. And mommy kept hugging you.

*~*

Now, when you're misbehaving, miscalculating or there was truly an accident, you give us that sorry routine: repeatedly saying sorry with the saddest of faces, the sorriest of voices and signing. So even when you actually deserve a scolding, I couldn't have a go at it anymore and just end up telling you "I Love You" but you have to be more careful.

*~*

I went up for a while tonight and when I got back down, I saw you with one leg already in one pyjama pant leg. You have somehow figured out that you could do this all by yourself so I allowed you to finish the job. I did show you the pant opening so you could get your other leg in.

Then I gave you the shirt and you put it on all by yourself. I had to help you when you mistakenly put your arm through the neckhole but you really managed to dress yourself tonight.

I was so proud I teared up.

Growing boy, that's what you are!

Putting Your Own Socks

It was Wednesday night when you put your own socks on without any help at all. Mommy wished she could share it with Pappie since he was worried about how Ice could take his off on his own while you never have, and you're older.

I told your Pappie that it's probably because we have always been there to do it for you. We really should hover less, I think.

But you did, and I was proud just the same.

*~*

Much as I love you playing with clay, there are now on an indefinite timeout. Granted, I get annoyed when you 'shred' them in small pieces and scatter them about. I made peace with that earlier, telling myself that it's the price for your hand dexterity. Unfortunately, you decided they're fun to scattter on food. Food is scared. So maybe around two weeks or so without play dough will make you play with it better.

I love you anyway.

And am happy twas Pappie who read to you tonight, and tucked you to bed.