Sensory Overload

After a morning at the pediatrician and lots of shots that were less than pleasant I thought it was necessary to have an afternoon of fun!

We started out with an attempt at coloring but he had more fun dumping out the crayons and picking them all up.

Then I made Isaac a "toy" car out of the surplus of left over moving boxes.  I used a paper bowl and cabinet knob for the steering wheel, paper plates for the wheels and plastic cups for the headlights.

Talk about an instant success!  He loves it.  He loves opening and closing the door and playing peek-a-boo through the window of the door.  I never thought he would have so much fun with a toy made from a box.  We still have lots of boxes left over so I'll have to get creative and come up with a few more ideas to make him some other "toys".

Next it was time for some sensory play.  I picked up some a cheap bag of rice and a cheap bag of beans from the dollar store and mixed them all together in a plastic container and let Isaac have a go at it.  It was another hit!

There is nothing sweeter to me than the sound of Isaac's laughter.  I love the pure expression of his joy over something so simple.  His laughter always melts my heart and fills me up.  I have the greatest job ever of being his mama and making him laugh. :)

Once the fun had concluded it was time for clean up.  I think I under estimated the traveling distance and speed of individual grains of rice.  Rice had spread from one end of the kitchen all the way to the far end of the living room on the mantel of the fire place.  Not only that but Isaac managed to get rice on the bottom of his feet, he had it stuck to his clothes and in his hair!  Oh it was all worth it.  

The fun continued when papa got home from work.  We had to run to the store and afterwards Isaac got a ride on papa's shoulders which is another guaranteed hit!

Isaac's 15 Month Check Up

It was 15 month check-up time today!

The adventure started on the way to the pediatrician with Isaac shredding the screen on the window in the backseat.  I think he forgot the intended purpose of the screen to keep the sun out of his eyes.  Instead he was more intrigued his arms have grown long enough to reach it and grab it so of course he had to pull it down.  However, in the course of pulling it down he ripped it, right as we pulled into the parking lot.

Once inside Isaac was rather content even once we were in the exam room.  That is until it was time to lay on the table.  That he certainly remembered and wanted no part of!  Talk about instant tears!

Isaac now weighs in at 22 1/2 lbs, so he's in the 25th percentile for weight and the doc is happy so I'm happy.  He's still in the 75th percentile for height measuring 32 1/4".  He's a tall slim boy. :)

I was warned that tantrums might start when I informed our doc that...yeah....they've already started.  Oh how wrong I was in thinking tantrums didn't start until age 2.  I know I was in denial, I still am.  I just call it a coping mechanism.  So, when tantrums start we're suppose to ignore him and walk away.  No picking him up until he stops crying then he can have lots of positive attention.   This is actually kind of hard because some of him tantrums make me laugh and I know I shouldn't let him see me laugh. I try really hard to hide it so I'm good at walking away...sometimes.

At completely random times, Isaac will drop to the floor and meld, sinking his head as close to the ground as possible, likes he hiding.  I can almost hear him thinking, I'm invisible mama, you can't see me!   He has also taken to randomly hitting his head against the floor or against objects.  It's silly and makes my head hurt when he does it.  Doc says some kids do this and it's a sign of intelligence.  So, again just ignore him when he does it.  Ugh, that one's hard!

I had the doc check his feet too since Isaac is still toeing in a bit on his right foot.  Isaac had his right foot tucked under him while he was breach.  He said his tibias turn in slightly and he may always toe in to some extent so we need to keep an eye on him and make sure he doesn't sit on his legs with his feet tucked under him.  The doctor also stated that many olympian runners toe in and it will make Isaac a faster runner.  Who knew!  We'll have to wait and see on that one.....

Then it was time to get his shots. :-(  I know Isaac hates this more than I do but absolutely hate it for him.  He had a flu shot too and has to go back in 4 weeks for a booster shot.

He did really well and had a great a check-up!

Goblin Man

Isaac loves when I do my workouts as I can only imagine it's one big game for him where mama's silly running and jumping.

While I'm stretching he runs up and gives me kisses and while I'm doing push-ups, for some reason he loves to partially lay on my back and play the drums!  Push-ups with a toddler on your back is a bit of a challenge.  They're hard enough on my own. :)

Today while I was doing my workout I had a t-shirt laying on the sofa to put on once I was finished.  Isaac was having so much fun running around me in circles that he picked up the shirt, started waving it around while shrieking with complete delight.  The next thing I knew he had somehow managed to get the shirt over his head.

He was having a blast! He was still running around giggling until somehow he managed to get his head through the sleeve.  Then it was time for some mama intervention......

He's so silly!  Every day is different with Isaac but if theres one thing I can count on is countless amounts of laughter and giggles.

Playtime at the Park

A great way to spend a beautiful afternoon is at the park with a great group of moms and tots.  Isaac had fun running around the park and climbing to the top of the slide.  He's still learning how to go down steps and took a bit of tumble inside one of the play structures.  The great thing was how helpful a couple of the other kids were in helping Isaac to get back up!  It was so sweet!

He's getting much better about enjoying the swings but mostly he loves to run and explore.  Isaac also continues to think that every stroller and diaper bag is fair game for his own exploration.  I have to at least give him credit that he knows a group of women with big shoulder bags equals goodies!

After an hour it was time to head home.  The last trip up the steps before going down the slide he stopped and sat for a bit.  As he stared into space I could see the glazed over look in his eyes.  He just didn't want to miss out on any fun.  After one last ride down the slide it was home for a nice long nap!

Pickles

Papa came home from Spain today! In celebration we went out for dinner at Taco Mac.

For some reason I'll never understand the american culture of putting a pickle on every plate.  I'm not sure why someone decided that pickles go with all sandwiches.  If you haven't guessed, I'm not a pickle fan.  There was a time that I loved pickles.  My grandma used to make them and when I was little I would eat them by the jar.  Let's just say I had one too many jar full of pickles and now I can't stand them!

Isaac on the other hand.....he seems to be a fan!

Frazer gave Isaac his pickle and it resulted in instant giggles!  I absolutely love Isaac's reactions.  He's always so laid back, happy and full of smiles.  I just never thought a pickle would be so delightful!

Music!

This morning we had a super fun activity!  Music class with the mom's group!

Isaac was initially a bit shy but was drawn to the large drum in the middle of the circle.  He got to run around with other kids and play with instruments!  There was an equalizer on the table right near the door to the classroom and Isaac was instantly drawn to the item because of course it wasn't a toy and is something he's not supposed to touch.  However from his perspective it was full of knobs and buttons to push and slide.  It's amazing the things that catch his attention.

He had fun playing with the drums and all the hand held items.  At the end of the class all of the kids got a turn playing the keyboard too!

He spent the rest of the afternoon banging on everything around the house that made fun drumming noises!

Railway Museum

Today we had a fun outing through the mom's group to tour the Southeastern Railway Museum.  I loved how the tour was set up.  With the amount of kids attending there were several small groups set up to rotate through different parts of the museum.

The tour kicked off with a fun activity outside where the kids got to pick out plastic spiders from a ball pit created with baby pools.  Isaac had more fun picking up the balls than the spiders so it required a bit of focus.  Once each child picked up a spider of a various color they were to place it into wagons.  From there the wagons were guided over to an area of containers where the kids were to sort the spiders by color.  It was a fun activity but Isaac was certainly more interested in the wagons.

He didn't quite understand the concept of pulling the wagon by the handle.  Instead, he preferred his own style of pushing.  He loved pushing the wagon.

I think he would have been perfectly content pushing the wagon for a couple of hours.  But since there was a lot more to see, and a little coaxing, he conceded and moved on to the next fun item on the tour.

 School buses!  Isaac got to go on his very first school bus!

Isaac got to go on two different types of school buses and sit in the big boy seats.  Even though he was curious about his surroundings and exploring  the seats and the windows he kept a careful eye on the bus drivers and listened rather well.

Next up was a craft activity where Isaac was more interested in gathering up all the crayons instead of coloring with them.  Then it was on to the old Marta buses.

Each child was given a golden token to put in the box before entering the bus.  Isaac did very well holding onto his coin.  He needed help putting it into the slot but once he was on board he took immediate interest in the big windows.  We had time for a quick snack on the bus too.

Then Isaac got a turn sitting in the drivers seat!

Oh how he loves wheels and anything that turns!

After the bus tour we walked inside to look at the old trains followed by story time.  Then it was time to go.  He was one worn out boy.  By the time I had him loaded in the car seat and waiting a couple of minutes for traffic to clear before pulling out onto the main road, he was fast asleep!  He slept the entire way home.

I'd say it was a successful morning!

Dentist, Dinosaurs & Dinner Time Fun

A trip to the dentist is a grounding experience and certainly gets you back into the swing of a regular week after spending a week at the beach.  Since Frazer was in Spain, Auntie Jenn was able to meet me at the dentist to help entertain Isaac while I had my check-up.

I arrived before Jenn so Isaac got to back to the dental chair with me and when Jenn arrived Isaac sat on her lap.  I couldn't believe how good Isaac was.  He sat on Jenn's lap the entire time I had my teeth cleaned and didn't make a peep.  He was thoroughly entertained by watching the hygienist and kept a careful eye on mama.  When he wasn't interested in the hygienist he had auntie to keep him entertained with her iphone.  I've never seen him sit so still and so quiet for such a long time.  :)

Afterwards we all went for lunch at LaMadeline's.  Love that place.

After lunch it was time to head home and get the little guy down for a nap.  Once he had his batteries recharged he was ready for some play time.  He's been working on figuring out how to ride his dinosaur instead of walking behind it.  When he sits on it he usually moves backwards and keeps working on how to figure out how to go forward.  Today however he decided to try out a new trick......

I had never considered the option of Mr. Dinosaur becoming a skateboard.  He stood on it for a while, stepped off to one side the back up, then back off to the other side.  Isaac was entertained so I was happy.  When the novelty of his new trick wore off he joined me in the kitchen while I was fixing dinner for some cabinet rummaging.

Birthday Delivery

Isaac I had to run to the store real quick.  We were having a laid back day for a Sunday and getting back into a routine from being gone all week.  When we got back from the store there was a van pulling into the drive way.  I slowed down and waited in the street thinking the van was at the wrong house and would be turning around.

A guy started to get out of the van and thats when I noticed the logo on the side for a floral delivery company.  I've never known of floral deliveries being made on Sundays.  Much to my surprise Frazer had arranged for the most beautiful arrangement of flowers to arrive.

They absolutely made me smile.  I knew he had to be away in Spain for my birthday and I really appreciated the thoughtfulness.  The colors were so brilliant and cheerful complete with my favorite....white roses!

Mama's Birthday

What a great way to start my birthday by waking up at the beach! Isaac was up early and full of smiles too.  While we were getting up, dressed and packing up to head home grandma made sure I had the breakfast of champions to start the day off right.....

What better way to start the day than with a red velvet cup cake complete with a singing birthday candle!  Of course I had my helper this year to assist with blowing out the candle and the best part was helping me eat the birthday cupcake. :)

If Isaac could talk I think he would have requested started off every day with cupcakes instead of oatmeal.  He certainly enjoyed helping me the cupcake.  We alternated bites but I think he ended up eating more than I did.  After we finished our "breakfast" it was time to load up and hit the road to head home.

We had a great time at the beach and Isaac was great on the drive back and was only fussy a couple of times.  It's always relaxing to be home and Isaac was happy to be back in his own space, running around and exploring his toys again.  Then the busy part starts with unloading, unpacking, dinner, laundry, etc.  But there was a package too!

I had a birthday present arrive while we were gone too and I loved the sewing book from my in-laws. I've got a long list of sewing projects piling up and I'll need all the guidance I can get to get them all finished.  I was also able to get the juicer going again that Frazer got for me before he left.

I couldn't ask for anything more.  I'm one lucky gal. :)

Beach Week - An Early Birthday Dinner

After a full day in the sun it was time to venture out for dinner.  We went to the Hard Rock Cafe in Destin, FL and Isaac loved listening to the music.  He also enjoyed waving to two kids at the table next to us.  I love that he's so friendly and enjoys waving to other people.  The biggest entertainment during dinner was his very own souvenir cup and straw.

Since it was the eve of my birthday Grandma couldn't us leave dinner without a celebratory sundae.  If this birthday is an indication of those to come I think I will forever have assistance with all birthday treats.  I gave Isaac a small taste of the ice cream and he was hooked.  He kept pointing, wanting more so we alternated bites.  He was full of smiles and giggles and was having a great time.  Before we knew it the sundae was all gone!

After dinner we walked around Destin Commons.  There is a great play area in the center that Isaac ran around and played on for awhile.  Since he had a tummy full of sugar it was good for him to run around and burn some energy.   Next to the play area was a water feature and even though bedtime was approaching there were lots of kids playing in the water.  I had an extra set of dry clothes for Isaac so we went for it.  It took him a few minutes to figure out what he was supposed to do and by the end he was soaked from head to toe!

Once he was dried off and changed into some dry clothes we walked around a bit before heading back to the condo.  It was a great day, a great few days at the beach with some wonderful memories created. :)

Beach Week - Last Day for Ocean Fun

This beach stuff is wearing Isaac out. :-)

Isaac woke up a little before 7:00 am and and he was back down for his first nap around 8:30 am.  He usually naps an hour or two.  Today, he nearly slept for 4 hours!  Since this was my first experience being at the beach with Isaac it was a bit of a challenge for me to be at the beach with a napping little guy and not be able to go down to the beach.  I love that he was resting so well so I took advantage of the balcony and enjoyed the fresh air, the aroma of the sea and sounds of waves.  Since I've all but given up on reading books since Isaac was born the next time I'll remember to come to the beach with a good book to read during nap times!

Once he woke up and had some lunch we were ready to venture back down to the beach especially since it was our last day!  Each day Isaac has been at the beach he's been better and better and getting used the environment.  He was much better about walking on the sand down to the ocean and we spent a lot more time in the water today.

I love the video of Isaac with Grandma playing in the ocean.   He had so much fun splashing and I love   when he takes such quick breaths in anticipation of water hitting his face.  It's just precious!

After the last big splash in his face he was about finished.  So a little more playtime in the sand then it was back to the pool.  He was a bit fussy in the pool but I discovered a great distraction....singing!  We sang Twinkle, Twinkle and It's Bitsy Spider and even our ABCs.  When I stopped singing he started fussing.  When I started singing he relaxed and played in the water.  He certainly has me wrapped around his little finger. :)

Since snacks are always better by the pool we had some snacks before heading in for our afternoon nap.

It was a great day at the beach and we both enjoyed having fun while soaking up some sunshine!

Beach Week - Isaac and the Ocean

Oh how I love waking up to ocean sounds!  The morning started out a bit overcast and rainy again but by the time Isaac was up from his morning nap it was sunny and time to head to the beach again.

We made our way down to the beach and found an abandoned shovel for Isaac.  He was much better on the sand today and once I demonstrated how to play with the shovel he seemed to be pleased.

I think he enjoyed the open space most of all.  He would stand up and start walking around like he was on a mission.   So many new things to investigate and explore. 

With some some coaxing I finally got Isaac to warm up to splashing in the water.....

I picked him up and walked into the water about up to my knees and he was fine as long as I was holding him but as soon as I attempted to put him down he instantly tucked his legs up.  Then he would toss his sand shovel into the water.  He was keeping Grandma and I very busy.

While Grandma was keeping Isaac entertained I was able to capture Isaac's true feelings of his second day at the beach and his experience with the ocean.....

Isaac kept looking at the water and then literally headed to dry land.  The water was just a bit much for him when he was trying to walk.  He's only been walking a couple of months so I can only image the challenge he was having balancing with shifting sand beneath his little feet.

Isaac was much better today but I didn't hesitate to follow his lead when he had enough.  As much as Frazer and I love the beach I didn't want to push him too much.  I love the pool too so I had no problem packing up and rinsing the sand off for some pool time.

After a dip in the pool it was nap time and boy did he sleep!  We'll have more fun tomorrow.  :)

Beach Week - Sticky Sand

Yesterday, Frazer had to leave for a work trip and will be in Spain for 11 days.  So, Isaac and I loaded up and drove down to Destin, FL to spend a few days with Grandma and Grandpa.  We arrived fairly late in the evening but it was great to wake up and hear the sooty sounds of ocean waves crashing on the shore.  Awwww, instant relaxation!

It was overcast and rainy in the morning but a bad day at the beach is better than a good day anywhere else! We started the day with a morning walk after Isaac had his breakfast and we walked down to the beach for Isaac's first experience with sand.  Of course his shoes and socks had to come off for the full experience.  As soon as his feet hit the sand and look of puzzlement washed over him.  He bent down and touched the strange substance with his hands.  Then he looked at me, looked and his hands, and tried to shake his hands and the sand wouldn't come up.  He couldn't figure out why the stuff was sticking and then the frustration started.  I only wish I had my phone with me to take a picture but I didn't.  He was too funny!  It only took a couple of minutes and he wanted to be picked up.

After his morning nap he spent some time hanging out with Grandpa on the patio.....

Once the sun came out it was time to head down to the beach!  As soon as we got to the beach I attempted to put him down to test out the sand again and I've never seen him tuck his legs up so quickly.  So, I carried across the beach area down to the chairs and he still wanted no part of the sand.  It was too funny.  Isaac was content sitting in the chair and watching everyone on the beach,  watching the water as well as the birds nearby.

He loved the gentle breeze and would often giggle and close his eyes.  Once he had a chance to warm up to the surrounds and scope things out a bit I felt it was time to venture down and let him experience the ocean.  He seemed a bit unsure standing in the soft sand and the first time a wave washed over his feet he felt the sand shift under his feet and let's just say his reaction was less than positive.  I've never seen Isaac scrunch his face into such a strange expression but it was clear he'd had enough for the day.

It was a good introduction but better not to push it too much on the first day.  Instead we made a transition to the pool.  At least we got all the sand washed off.  Isaac didn't last too long in the pool either and I could tell the melt down was coming and then it hit.  Back inside we went and once he was changed and in dry clothes he was fast asleep.

Lunch with Uncle Jason

My younger brother Jason was in town for Labor Day weekend and we were able to connect before he headed back to Knoxville for school since he just started his PHD program.  Frazer, Isaac and I met Jason for lunch and uncle Jason had a surprise for Isaac.

A new dragon friend.  This is a really cute handmade dragon that's bendable.  It's funny for him to have his own dragon since we just watched the movie How to Train a Dragon.  I think I may have watched it more than Isaac but.....it's cute to have a toy dragon.

While eating lunch Isaac turned into Mr. Independent.  I had been cutting up his fruit into smaller pieces since the strawberries were huge.  Silly me didn't take into consideration that Isaac had plans of his own.  Perhaps the whole berry looked more tasty but he leaned over  and snatched a big strawberry all for himself!

I can do it myself mama!

It didn't occur to me until later that I should have taken a picture of all of us together but as usually Isaac  tends to be the center of attention when it comes to capturing precious moments. :)  We had a good lunch and a good visit.