In the spirit of spring (I hope I hope I hope) I am going to dedicate this post to ridiculously easy meals so you can take your kids outside and enjoy the nice weather that should be coming soon, to a backyard near you.
Easiest Spaghetti:
Put one or two lbs. of ground beef in a slow cooker with 3 or 6 cans of tomato sauce. Add some vegetables or spices if you want. Cook on low for at least eight hours. This is also perfect for lasagna. Note: I'm sorry but it will take about 8 minutes to cook the noodles when you're ready for dinner, but that's about it.
Sneaky Rice:
Measure according to the instructions the amount of rice you want. Make sure you don't use instant, you need the long-cooking stuff for this one. Use half the water in the directions, and substitute canned cheddar soup for the other half. Coarsely chop a head of cauliflower into the mix and add another can of soup or cup of water for good measure. Use some garlic or oregano if you want, or put in some chopped grape tomatoes. Bake at 350F for an hour to two hours, covered. The cauliflower will break up as it's cooking and your kids won't be able to tell it from the rice.
Easy Soup
Chop up some potatoes (no need to peel unless you want to) and throw them into a pot with some broccoli and chicken broth or water or a combination. Spice it how you like and add some frozen veggies to increase the vitamin factor if you want. Boil for 20-30 minutes, until potatoes are tender. Put in a food processor until smooth, and add some shredded cheese and 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce. Stir until melted.
Bacon Bunnies
Put two pieces of bread for every person on a baking tray. Cover with cheese and cooked bacon slices and broil for about 4 minutes. Use ketchup for the smiley faces.
Chili:
Put about a pound of beef into a slow cooker with one can of tomato paste and some diced tomatoes. Add some cans of black beans, navy beans, white beans, whatever kind of beans you want. Throw in some mushrooms and a whole lot of chili powder and garlic. Slow cook for 8 hours on low and serve with toast. Some people like corn in it, but not I.
Baked Pancakes:
Mix up some pancakes from a box or from scratch, but reduce the water or milk so it's really thick. Scoop onto baking trays and bake at 350F for about ten to twenty minutes. It really depends on your oven so watch them closely. Flip them when they look puffy and a little solid. You can cut out all the time of cooking them one or two at a time in a frying pan this way. Instead of twenty minutes at the stove, it's twenty minutes of them doing their own thing.
Easy Chicken:
This is best suited for chicken to put into things, like salad or a stir-fry or noodles. It's a bit rubbery for chicken on a plate. Take some chicken breasts and microwave them, covered, for ten minutes. Cut into pieces and microwave for a minute or two more if needed. Hint: Add water while cooking to keep it more tender. Spice how you like and add to whatever else you're serving.
Wednesday 27 March 2013
Monday 25 March 2013
His own short little man
Maybe I don't play the right way, but he would much rather put together and take apart train tracks alone than stack blocks with Mommy. He will come over to knock them down of course, and then run away to do his own thing again.
I'm not saying we don't play together. A good amount of time is spent every day reading or playing tag or mimicking games. He loves to joke around and "hide," or do anything that elicits a dramatic response. But when it comes to toys, he wants to play alone. Likewise with me helping him. He prefers to become frustrated on his own while trying to figure out a puzzle, over me helping him. I can't even hand him the right puzzle piece without him throwing it across the room in all his indignant fury. How dare I try to teach him anything?
I got used to hands on interaction with J because that's what he responded best to. He would happily hold my hand on the sidewalk and look to me first before making a decision. E stages a rebellion if I try to hold his hand and charge first, make decisions and look for reassurance later. His personality is so different that it took some getting used to. I have to remember that interaction comes in all forms, and E benefits more from the verbal and visual exchanges than J ever did.
That said, he also genuinely loves his own company. He will walk around in circles on the front lawn wanting nothing to do with me. He will leave the room and get another toy when he's had too much stimulation. And he can amuse himself for a good ten minutes by walking backwards and sideways and spinning in circles. I wish I was so easily amused.
I sometimes feel that he doesn't get enough play time with me, but then I check myself. I have to remember that by giving him his space, which he clearly wants, I'm supporting his unique personality and what comes naturally to him. His preference for playing independently isn't a statement that I don't spend enough time with him, but an example of his own free will and ability to entertain himself. But I do love the games he will play with me.
Saturday 23 March 2013
Juice for thought
Here's a funny little story that some parents may relate to. I wrote previously about my feelings on kids drinking juice (completely pointless and sometimes detrimental). That said, J didn't taste juice until he was over three years old. He naturally prefers water to anything else, and when someone tried to give him pop (to spite me, I think), he couldn't stand it. Now he occasionally drinks juice, although I only buy it about three times a year and he only likes apple.
I justify this with the fact that ice cream and cookies are completely pointless too, but sometimes we all need a little treat. E has had juice once (when a babysitter gave it to him) and he refused to drink water for three days after that. So E won't have any more juice for a couple of years either.
Last night was one of the rare occasions that J wanted juice and one of the typical occasions when there wasn't any in the house. He looked at me innocently and said, "So make some." Um, what was that? He really thought that I could just grab some fruit and magically make juice out of it. Wow. In one sense it's completely nonsensical, but in another, it was a bit flattering. He's so used to me making muffins and homemade granola bars that he thinks I can make an easy cup of apple juice whenever he wants it.
It took some thought, but I did figure out how to make a (relatively) easy cup of juice. J was not surprised, but I was a little. Here's the recipe for all those ambitious parents who don't have a juicer but want to serve a completely natural beverage other than water.
Take one apple and a cheese grater. Using the small side of the grater, grate the apple into the bowl. You'll end up with some juice and a whole lot of pulp. Place a clean cheese cloth in a funnel (this helps to keep it all together), and put the funnel spout into a cup. Dump the apple pulp and juice into the cheese cloth and squeeze until nothing else comes out. The funnel will direct all the juice into the cup, and the cheese cloth makes it easy to get every last drop. You'll end up with about half a cup of apple juice, and you can add water to that to increase the amount. I didn't add any water but it was pretty strong juice, so start with a little water and add more to taste. Voila, one (or one half) cup of perfectly organic juice for your spoiled child! Enjoy!
I justify this with the fact that ice cream and cookies are completely pointless too, but sometimes we all need a little treat. E has had juice once (when a babysitter gave it to him) and he refused to drink water for three days after that. So E won't have any more juice for a couple of years either.
Last night was one of the rare occasions that J wanted juice and one of the typical occasions when there wasn't any in the house. He looked at me innocently and said, "So make some." Um, what was that? He really thought that I could just grab some fruit and magically make juice out of it. Wow. In one sense it's completely nonsensical, but in another, it was a bit flattering. He's so used to me making muffins and homemade granola bars that he thinks I can make an easy cup of apple juice whenever he wants it.
It took some thought, but I did figure out how to make a (relatively) easy cup of juice. J was not surprised, but I was a little. Here's the recipe for all those ambitious parents who don't have a juicer but want to serve a completely natural beverage other than water.
Take one apple and a cheese grater. Using the small side of the grater, grate the apple into the bowl. You'll end up with some juice and a whole lot of pulp. Place a clean cheese cloth in a funnel (this helps to keep it all together), and put the funnel spout into a cup. Dump the apple pulp and juice into the cheese cloth and squeeze until nothing else comes out. The funnel will direct all the juice into the cup, and the cheese cloth makes it easy to get every last drop. You'll end up with about half a cup of apple juice, and you can add water to that to increase the amount. I didn't add any water but it was pretty strong juice, so start with a little water and add more to taste. Voila, one (or one half) cup of perfectly organic juice for your spoiled child! Enjoy!
Anxiety update
With so much written about E and his sleep patterns lately, I am going to write about J today. I mentioned earlier that he has some behavioural issues that suggest anxiety. I will say first that I don't know for sure that's it, because he hasn't been diagnosed. I've been reading a lot about it though, and it makes sense. Many of the symptoms present like ADHD, but the difference is that ADHD is evident mostly at school and across all situations. J has no problems at school, either paying attention, sitting still, or getting along with peers, but he does have difficulty with these same things at home.
Things have been escalating lately. Most of his days and interactions at home are positive, and there are some identifiable triggers to his meltdowns which I can avoid. When his mood turns sulky or sad, I can usually help him to turn it around, but there are times when nothing works. In the past two weeks he has hit me three times, and had several occasions where he has run away from me during a conversation to go cry in his room. These latest episodes haven't had triggers that I can recognize, and calming him down is a process that takes a lot of time.
Add that to the fact that his verbal outbursts are becoming much more insulting, and I even heard the first "I hate you" last week. I know every child is going to say that to their parents at least once (I remember very clearly the first and only time I ever said it to my own mom), but I thought he might be a little older before he pulled that one out of the hat.
Anyway, I have gone through the necessary channels to join a support group for families experiencing emotional difficulties, and had the first meeting with the social worker last week. J is on the waiting list for group therapy for children with anxiety and fear. That's a good thing, but the waiting might be problematic. He starts in either April or September, depending when they have a group for his age. So we either wait a couple weeks or six months.
I decided to read some of the recommended books for kids with anxiety, because even if he isn't diagnosed as an anxious child, it may help with some of his emotional struggles. The books I've read have been incredibly useful. They help parents with age-appropriate communication and labels for what the child is experiencing. I think the name "Brain Train" says enough. I'm hoping that he will learn to recognize and identify his emotions, and respond to them a little more appropriately than he has been.
He also needs to work on paying attention at home, but the sticker charts that I mentioned a couple weeks ago weren't working. I don't know if it's because he's too old for them, but whenever I told him to put up a sticker he would forget, so we never had the right numbers. I tweaked the method a little, and now he has a target goal to reach every day for good listening. If he reaches his goal, he earns a marble to put in a cup. At the end of the week he can have his cup full of marbles. He's very excited about this and it puts me in charge of the recording. This is a way to focus on what he's doing that's positive, and I'm hoping it will make him feel a bit more appreciated and confident.
It's too early to tell if either the books or the marbles are going to be effective, but I feel good about it. Even if we have to adapt some of the techniques to fit our family, it's more ideas than I had a month ago. And now I have professionals to give me advice as well when I need it. It's hard for me to accept that I need help with parenting issues, especially being a former behavioural counsellor. But for J's sake I'll get over it and take the opportunity to learn as much as I can, so I can keep helping him like a mom should.
Things have been escalating lately. Most of his days and interactions at home are positive, and there are some identifiable triggers to his meltdowns which I can avoid. When his mood turns sulky or sad, I can usually help him to turn it around, but there are times when nothing works. In the past two weeks he has hit me three times, and had several occasions where he has run away from me during a conversation to go cry in his room. These latest episodes haven't had triggers that I can recognize, and calming him down is a process that takes a lot of time.
Add that to the fact that his verbal outbursts are becoming much more insulting, and I even heard the first "I hate you" last week. I know every child is going to say that to their parents at least once (I remember very clearly the first and only time I ever said it to my own mom), but I thought he might be a little older before he pulled that one out of the hat.
Anyway, I have gone through the necessary channels to join a support group for families experiencing emotional difficulties, and had the first meeting with the social worker last week. J is on the waiting list for group therapy for children with anxiety and fear. That's a good thing, but the waiting might be problematic. He starts in either April or September, depending when they have a group for his age. So we either wait a couple weeks or six months.
I decided to read some of the recommended books for kids with anxiety, because even if he isn't diagnosed as an anxious child, it may help with some of his emotional struggles. The books I've read have been incredibly useful. They help parents with age-appropriate communication and labels for what the child is experiencing. I think the name "Brain Train" says enough. I'm hoping that he will learn to recognize and identify his emotions, and respond to them a little more appropriately than he has been.
He also needs to work on paying attention at home, but the sticker charts that I mentioned a couple weeks ago weren't working. I don't know if it's because he's too old for them, but whenever I told him to put up a sticker he would forget, so we never had the right numbers. I tweaked the method a little, and now he has a target goal to reach every day for good listening. If he reaches his goal, he earns a marble to put in a cup. At the end of the week he can have his cup full of marbles. He's very excited about this and it puts me in charge of the recording. This is a way to focus on what he's doing that's positive, and I'm hoping it will make him feel a bit more appreciated and confident.
It's too early to tell if either the books or the marbles are going to be effective, but I feel good about it. Even if we have to adapt some of the techniques to fit our family, it's more ideas than I had a month ago. And now I have professionals to give me advice as well when I need it. It's hard for me to accept that I need help with parenting issues, especially being a former behavioural counsellor. But for J's sake I'll get over it and take the opportunity to learn as much as I can, so I can keep helping him like a mom should.
Monday 18 March 2013
Thank You OHIP
J picked a good week to be sick. March Break is really the best time for it I guess, if there is a best time. Now he's on antibiotics and getting better. E was seeming under the weather for a while, and the doctor assumed they both had a flu bug but J's morphed into something worse due to asthma. Now E's got a high fever and he's on his way for an appointment later today.
There have been several appointments. Two for J last week where we were seen, and one that I rescheduled after waiting for an hour and a half. J's got an appointment tonight with a social worker about his anxiety too. E was seen last week and was supposed to have his eighteen month shots on Wed., but now with being sick he has to be seen today and get that rescheduled. Things have been busy to say the least.
I was thinking though, about how grateful I am that I haven't had to pay for any of these appointments. Although health care policies in Canada are changing, they're still pretty good for the average citizen. Imagine if we had to pay for every appointment and checkup. I'd need a full-time job just to cover those bills!
Many parents have had weeks where they visit the doctor or emergency at least three times. Now take a minute to think about what it would be like to pay for all of those visits. Would you have still gone? Maybe, but it would have been pricey. I'm not advocating that we use health care mercilessly, but I like that it's there and free when we really need it.
I'm also grateful that the doctor's office where our family physician practices is so good. Most of the time if the kids are sick, they will see them same day, between appointments. When that's not possible, the extended hours clinic prioritizes patients who have a doctor in the same building. This means we hardly ever have to go to the emergency room to see a doctor, and we don't pay anything either for this extra consideration. They also always fast-track kids.
This is not a post about children being sick; that happens all the time. It's just a moment of gratitude that health care is so good in our country. People complain all the time about waiting and lack of doctors and maybe I was just lucky to get the physician we have, but I can't complain. Because while it's hard to have sick kids to take care of, at least the doctors and clinics around here aren't making it any worse for me.
Now to convince E he needs a nap before we go.....
There have been several appointments. Two for J last week where we were seen, and one that I rescheduled after waiting for an hour and a half. J's got an appointment tonight with a social worker about his anxiety too. E was seen last week and was supposed to have his eighteen month shots on Wed., but now with being sick he has to be seen today and get that rescheduled. Things have been busy to say the least.
I was thinking though, about how grateful I am that I haven't had to pay for any of these appointments. Although health care policies in Canada are changing, they're still pretty good for the average citizen. Imagine if we had to pay for every appointment and checkup. I'd need a full-time job just to cover those bills!
Many parents have had weeks where they visit the doctor or emergency at least three times. Now take a minute to think about what it would be like to pay for all of those visits. Would you have still gone? Maybe, but it would have been pricey. I'm not advocating that we use health care mercilessly, but I like that it's there and free when we really need it.
I'm also grateful that the doctor's office where our family physician practices is so good. Most of the time if the kids are sick, they will see them same day, between appointments. When that's not possible, the extended hours clinic prioritizes patients who have a doctor in the same building. This means we hardly ever have to go to the emergency room to see a doctor, and we don't pay anything either for this extra consideration. They also always fast-track kids.
This is not a post about children being sick; that happens all the time. It's just a moment of gratitude that health care is so good in our country. People complain all the time about waiting and lack of doctors and maybe I was just lucky to get the physician we have, but I can't complain. Because while it's hard to have sick kids to take care of, at least the doctors and clinics around here aren't making it any worse for me.
Now to convince E he needs a nap before we go.....
Saturday 16 March 2013
Everything opposing
I took my nephew to an OHL hockey game on Saturday with J. We all had a lot of fun, and I looked after him for a few days because my sister was in the hospital for a while. I didn't mind at all and this post is not a complaint. I just wanted to talk about personalities and children and funny dramas that happen with young boys.
For reference, J refers to Jimmy and Jay refers to my nephew. They are a year apart and they definitely bring out the best and the worst in each other. They take turns to instigate problems, and then they take turns apologizing. It's quite funny to watch really, but they need a lot of intervention some days.
J being sick didn't help the matter. When J gets sick, his first symptom is being disagreeable. I think they call it "irritability" at the pharmacy, but in J it translates to arguing, testing limits, attitude, and a complete lack of impulse control. It wasn't fun for him or his cousin.
It got to the point that one would ask for something, the other would want that same thing, then the first would not want it anymore, and the second would not want it because the first wouldn't want it. Example, J: "I want a bath first." Jay: " I want a bath second." J: " I don't want a bath first." Jay: "Auntie Kristy, he's bothering me." J: "He bothered me first." Jay: "He did." J: "No, he did! Mommy...." I'm sure you get the idea.
They had many impressive moments too though. They solved some problems together and apologized and hugged spontaneously after several of the disagreements. Then they would get along, share, and be considerate for hours at a time. This has been the pattern since they were babies. They set each other off and can't get enough of each other. When Jay went home, J was upset and went to bed at 6 because there was no one left to play or argue with. His words, not mine.
I think many parents assume that if kids are a similar age and are introduced young enough, they will naturally become friends. My sister and I thought that J and Jay would be best friends. I've learned that it depends on the child. J is relatively easygoing, and likes to play with and help other children, but his personality is so strong that he only really gets along with laid back and quieter children. He has plenty of friends who aren't this way, but it's more of a challenge for him to keep peace with them. Surprisingly, these are the ones he prefers to invite over all the time.
Children surprise us all the time, and I can't believe I wasn't prepared for the personality clashes between young ones. This isn't a new thing for J; he's demonstrated this since he first started walking, maybe before. I only noticed because if he didn't like another child, he would walk away. I think as parents we have all made an assumption or two that's turned out to be wrong or silly in hindsight. That was one of mine.
J is doing just fine though. He chooses his own friends and, whether or not he argues with them, they are usually long-term, repetitive play date friends. It's good for him to be challenged, and I'm proud that he's so accepting of others.Even if it is a little more work for me. Being a referee just comes with the job I guess.
For reference, J refers to Jimmy and Jay refers to my nephew. They are a year apart and they definitely bring out the best and the worst in each other. They take turns to instigate problems, and then they take turns apologizing. It's quite funny to watch really, but they need a lot of intervention some days.
J being sick didn't help the matter. When J gets sick, his first symptom is being disagreeable. I think they call it "irritability" at the pharmacy, but in J it translates to arguing, testing limits, attitude, and a complete lack of impulse control. It wasn't fun for him or his cousin.
It got to the point that one would ask for something, the other would want that same thing, then the first would not want it anymore, and the second would not want it because the first wouldn't want it. Example, J: "I want a bath first." Jay: " I want a bath second." J: " I don't want a bath first." Jay: "Auntie Kristy, he's bothering me." J: "He bothered me first." Jay: "He did." J: "No, he did! Mommy...." I'm sure you get the idea.
They had many impressive moments too though. They solved some problems together and apologized and hugged spontaneously after several of the disagreements. Then they would get along, share, and be considerate for hours at a time. This has been the pattern since they were babies. They set each other off and can't get enough of each other. When Jay went home, J was upset and went to bed at 6 because there was no one left to play or argue with. His words, not mine.
I think many parents assume that if kids are a similar age and are introduced young enough, they will naturally become friends. My sister and I thought that J and Jay would be best friends. I've learned that it depends on the child. J is relatively easygoing, and likes to play with and help other children, but his personality is so strong that he only really gets along with laid back and quieter children. He has plenty of friends who aren't this way, but it's more of a challenge for him to keep peace with them. Surprisingly, these are the ones he prefers to invite over all the time.
Children surprise us all the time, and I can't believe I wasn't prepared for the personality clashes between young ones. This isn't a new thing for J; he's demonstrated this since he first started walking, maybe before. I only noticed because if he didn't like another child, he would walk away. I think as parents we have all made an assumption or two that's turned out to be wrong or silly in hindsight. That was one of mine.
J is doing just fine though. He chooses his own friends and, whether or not he argues with them, they are usually long-term, repetitive play date friends. It's good for him to be challenged, and I'm proud that he's so accepting of others.Even if it is a little more work for me. Being a referee just comes with the job I guess.
Wednesday 13 March 2013
Sleep, one step at a time
I've lost track of what day it is for sleep training and the hours of sleep I've had this week. It's been a week and a half (I think) since I've removed the futon from E's room, and I think things are getting better. It's slow though.
The last few nights he's woken at random times and been easy to put back down, with the exception of last night when he woke at 11pm and screamed for 30 minutes. Then he slept for 10 minutes and screamed for another 45. Then he slept from 1am to 545am, which I admit, is a small improvement.
He has been sleeping better in general, so I didn't want to get him up last night and ruin the routine I've been putting into place. I feel bad because I think he's getting sick and just not feeling well in general. His brother had the flu that turned into some sort of infection, and E has a low fever today.
I think half the problem was a change the routine if he was sick or teething or had another good reason for not sleeping well. This was compassionate and sensitive, but I don't know if it's worth re-establishing the same routine every month. After one rough night, I will use preventive measures tonight. I will check for a fever and give him Tylenol if he needs it, and hopefully he won't scream for half the night again.
On a separate note, E is going to bed very well. He hasn't cried at bedtime for a while now, although he still fights his naps sometimes. He will likely grow out of naps before he is okay with going to sleep during the day, but I'll keep this up for the night time at least.
The last few nights he's woken at random times and been easy to put back down, with the exception of last night when he woke at 11pm and screamed for 30 minutes. Then he slept for 10 minutes and screamed for another 45. Then he slept from 1am to 545am, which I admit, is a small improvement.
He has been sleeping better in general, so I didn't want to get him up last night and ruin the routine I've been putting into place. I feel bad because I think he's getting sick and just not feeling well in general. His brother had the flu that turned into some sort of infection, and E has a low fever today.
I think half the problem was a change the routine if he was sick or teething or had another good reason for not sleeping well. This was compassionate and sensitive, but I don't know if it's worth re-establishing the same routine every month. After one rough night, I will use preventive measures tonight. I will check for a fever and give him Tylenol if he needs it, and hopefully he won't scream for half the night again.
On a separate note, E is going to bed very well. He hasn't cried at bedtime for a while now, although he still fights his naps sometimes. He will likely grow out of naps before he is okay with going to sleep during the day, but I'll keep this up for the night time at least.
Sunday 10 March 2013
Sleep, the next chapter
So it's been two days since I've been on the computer, and that's an indication of how tired I am. The night before last, E was restless again and woke up several times before midnight, but settled easily. Then he was awake at 330am to stay. Yes, that's right. 330am. Ridiculous, isn't it? He even had a later bedtime, which I was hoping would help.
Last night was more like the start of this sleep program/project/experiment. He slept until 3am, then screamed the entire household awake. I changed his diaper, gave him a minute of snuggles, and put him back down. I told him it was bedtime, good night, and followed the normal bedtime routine. Then it was time to sit in the hallway and listen to him yell until 445am. That was fun. He woke for the day at 6.
Unrelated to E but related to the Mommy sleep factor, J has had two rough nights too. He has been up coughing at least twice each night, and last night he had a nightmare which morphed into sleepwalking and then a full-blown tantrum.
I cannot tally my sleep hours and minutes for the last two nights, but I can tell you with all certainty the number's not getting higher. I said I would do this for a week, but that's the standard time it takes for an average kid to develop a habit. My children are way above average in the stubbornness department, so maybe I'll give it two weeks. Hope I can make it.
Addendum: if you know where I live, coffee donations are always welcome!
Last night was more like the start of this sleep program/project/experiment. He slept until 3am, then screamed the entire household awake. I changed his diaper, gave him a minute of snuggles, and put him back down. I told him it was bedtime, good night, and followed the normal bedtime routine. Then it was time to sit in the hallway and listen to him yell until 445am. That was fun. He woke for the day at 6.
Unrelated to E but related to the Mommy sleep factor, J has had two rough nights too. He has been up coughing at least twice each night, and last night he had a nightmare which morphed into sleepwalking and then a full-blown tantrum.
I cannot tally my sleep hours and minutes for the last two nights, but I can tell you with all certainty the number's not getting higher. I said I would do this for a week, but that's the standard time it takes for an average kid to develop a habit. My children are way above average in the stubbornness department, so maybe I'll give it two weeks. Hope I can make it.
Addendum: if you know where I live, coffee donations are always welcome!
Friday 8 March 2013
I need sleep Day Five
E went to bed okay last night, but he was awake for a while. I'm not sure how he does that with only a half hour nap, but what can I say? He defies the odds. He was restless and woke several times between 8pm and 2am, but went back to sleep easily every time. That meant I only got about an hour of broken sleep in that time.
E got up at 430am for good, but was happy to relax on the couch with me for 45 minutes. So I think things are improving for him, but it's going to take longer for me to get a full night's sleep. And I need to train him somehow to sleep in a little bit longer. I'll happily get up at 6 every morning. Yes, it's reached that point. 430am is a little too early though.
Score:
E: 9 1/2 hours sleep (broken)
Mommy: 3 1/2 hours sleep (broken
Addendum: Even with so little sleep and going to bed early, I can never fall asleep before 11pm. What's wrong with me?
E got up at 430am for good, but was happy to relax on the couch with me for 45 minutes. So I think things are improving for him, but it's going to take longer for me to get a full night's sleep. And I need to train him somehow to sleep in a little bit longer. I'll happily get up at 6 every morning. Yes, it's reached that point. 430am is a little too early though.
Score:
E: 9 1/2 hours sleep (broken)
Mommy: 3 1/2 hours sleep (broken
Addendum: Even with so little sleep and going to bed early, I can never fall asleep before 11pm. What's wrong with me?
Thursday 7 March 2013
Sleepless but my fault
Last night bedtime went well. He complained a bit but went off to sleep with no crying. Success! Then he woke at eleven, but went back to sleep easily. Then he slept through until 5:30! Which would have been awesome but I was up at 3, 4 and 5, and just got back to sleep when it was time to start the day (not my decision). So I'm still pretty tired. I wish my body could forget habits as easily as a toddler's.
I planned to nap at the same time as E today, because J was in school. Usually I can't nap at all throughout the day because I'm not used to it. So I put E for a nap, and after five minutes of chatting to his stuffies he went to sleep. I cleaned for fifteen minutes and went to bed. I slept for five minutes and then E woke up. A half an hour nap is not enough (I'm not even going to comment on a five-minute nap), but that was that.
Final score:
E: 10 1/2 hours of sleep + 30 min. nap
Mommy: 4 1/2 hours sleep + 5 min. nap
Something's not working here!
I planned to nap at the same time as E today, because J was in school. Usually I can't nap at all throughout the day because I'm not used to it. So I put E for a nap, and after five minutes of chatting to his stuffies he went to sleep. I cleaned for fifteen minutes and went to bed. I slept for five minutes and then E woke up. A half an hour nap is not enough (I'm not even going to comment on a five-minute nap), but that was that.
Final score:
E: 10 1/2 hours of sleep + 30 min. nap
Mommy: 4 1/2 hours sleep + 5 min. nap
Something's not working here!
Wednesday 6 March 2013
Sleepless Day 3
So I've stuck to my guns so far, but only because I removed the futon from E's room so I have no choice. E woke up at 11:45 last night, and I went in once to calm him down and left again. He didn't like that one bit, and he cried and screamed for a good hour or so. He finally fell asleep. I was lying in bed listening to him until then.
Then he was up again from 3:00-4:15, but he only cried for 30 minutes or so, and then he was playing in his crib for an hour before going back to sleep. I was sitting out in the hallway that time, and I was fighting the urge to go and lay him back down.
I got some sleep from 4:30-5:55 when it was time to get up. The birds haven't even come back north yet to wake us up. At this rate I'm going to run out of coffee before grocery day. It's in the name of hopeful improvement though, so here's a recap:
Night One:
E got 8 hours and 15 minutes of sleep; Mommy got 5 hours and 15 minutes of sleep.
Night Two:
E got 8 hour and fifteen minutes of sleep; Mommy got 4 hours and 15 minutes of sleep (later bedtime for Mommy)
Now my math skills are a bit dusty so that's with the help of a calculator. I don't see any improvement here yet. Considering that most kids E's age need 12-16 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, I'm confused. Even with his two hour nap it doesn't put him within range. Hmmmm. We will see what tomorrow brings. I refuse to think about the 8-10 hours of sleep Mommy should be getting each night. That would just be depressing.
Then he was up again from 3:00-4:15, but he only cried for 30 minutes or so, and then he was playing in his crib for an hour before going back to sleep. I was sitting out in the hallway that time, and I was fighting the urge to go and lay him back down.
I got some sleep from 4:30-5:55 when it was time to get up. The birds haven't even come back north yet to wake us up. At this rate I'm going to run out of coffee before grocery day. It's in the name of hopeful improvement though, so here's a recap:
Night One:
E got 8 hours and 15 minutes of sleep; Mommy got 5 hours and 15 minutes of sleep.
Night Two:
E got 8 hour and fifteen minutes of sleep; Mommy got 4 hours and 15 minutes of sleep (later bedtime for Mommy)
Now my math skills are a bit dusty so that's with the help of a calculator. I don't see any improvement here yet. Considering that most kids E's age need 12-16 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, I'm confused. Even with his two hour nap it doesn't put him within range. Hmmmm. We will see what tomorrow brings. I refuse to think about the 8-10 hours of sleep Mommy should be getting each night. That would just be depressing.
Tuesday 5 March 2013
Sleepless in Peterborough (or Chapter Two)
After the first failed attempt at nap time I was pretty discouraged. I fed E lunch and put him down again about an hour later. He cried for twenty minutes, but then slept for 45 minutes. It's not nearly enough sleep for him and he was cranky all afternoon. To give him a second and late nap would have ruined his entire night.
The futon was successfully removed from E's room last night and into J's room. I will no longer be bunking with the baby. I thought E would have a fit when he realized it was gone, but he surprised me and didn't care. How about that? Bedtime was a small argument, but after five minutes of grumbling and protesting he liad down and went to sleep.
He slept through until 1am (it's better than 11pm at least) and was up until 3:30. Ouch, but not agonizingly so. So then he slept and I slept until the official start of the day at 5:45. Oops, I forgot about that part. Without the futon in his room he won't play quietly in his crib until I'm ready to get up. Hmmmm, didn't think that one through.
Today I took the lesson from yesterday and didn't put him down for a nap until well after lunch. I made sure we had a busy morning and refused to let him sleep no matter how many times he provoked me by yawning. So when noon rolled around and he had a full tummy, I laid him down and he didn't cry at all. Of course I had to make sure no one switched my baby with another one, but no, it was E and he was s.leeping! Weird.
Bedtime was just as weird. I put him down and left and he went right to sleep. Let's see if he can make it until 2am this time......wish me luck
The futon was successfully removed from E's room last night and into J's room. I will no longer be bunking with the baby. I thought E would have a fit when he realized it was gone, but he surprised me and didn't care. How about that? Bedtime was a small argument, but after five minutes of grumbling and protesting he liad down and went to sleep.
He slept through until 1am (it's better than 11pm at least) and was up until 3:30. Ouch, but not agonizingly so. So then he slept and I slept until the official start of the day at 5:45. Oops, I forgot about that part. Without the futon in his room he won't play quietly in his crib until I'm ready to get up. Hmmmm, didn't think that one through.
Today I took the lesson from yesterday and didn't put him down for a nap until well after lunch. I made sure we had a busy morning and refused to let him sleep no matter how many times he provoked me by yawning. So when noon rolled around and he had a full tummy, I laid him down and he didn't cry at all. Of course I had to make sure no one switched my baby with another one, but no, it was E and he was s.leeping! Weird.
Bedtime was just as weird. I put him down and left and he went right to sleep. Let's see if he can make it until 2am this time......wish me luck
Monday 4 March 2013
Diary of a sleepless mom
I posted previously about E's problems with bedtime and napping and the crying for a millennium before he goes to sleep. He was doing great for a while. He would go to bed and sleep without crying at bedtime, and his nap times were only a one out of four times.
As I write this, he is currently in his crib because he had a rough night (more on that later), screaming for all he's worth and decidedly not napping. I don't know what happened because there has been no big change in routine for sleep time or day time, he is not currently cutting teeth, and he's not going through a growth spurt. I've ruled out every possible cause I can think of, but last week he started a rebellion.
It started with his middle of the night wakings. He had stopped waking at eleven some of the time (he no longer gets milk at night so that helps), but whether or not he woke at eleven, he would always wake before 4 am. I'm not complaining. That's improvement. But instead of being happy with a one minute cuddle and going back to sleep, he started throwing temper tantrums. They got worse and forgive me, but at four in the morning there's only so much of that I can take. After about an hour of the wailing, banging walls, and throwing everything he could reach, I finally took him into bed with me. I know that's only reinforcing the crying but I am so tired from all of this that it really seems like the last resort in the wee hours.
That's exactly the problem. I am resolved during the day and even at his bedtime to let him cry so he learns, but when I've been woken from sleep and awake listening to his anger for a while, I get to the point that sleep is the only thing that matters. I've decided I'm not a good mom between 12am and 6 am, because consistency is so important but I can't stick to my guns in this situation. The night tantrums have led to extreme problems with nap time again, so it's back to square one.
Before anyone thinks, "It's just a phase, it will pass," I know it will. Even if if doesn't, there's only seventeen and a half more years until he moves out and I can make it.The simple fact is, everyone in this house is sleeping poorly because of this. J has woken up several times and his anxiety skyrockets because of it, and my husband and I are bickering a lot more and everyone's on edge. I have gotten five hours of sleep in the past three nights, and I can't function very well. It sucks.
So keeping in mind that it's the middle of the day and I'm thinking as clearly as I can, given the lack of sleep, I am going to tell you my plan. Whether I stick to it or not is anyone's guess, but I will give it everything I've got for at least a week to see if there's improvement. I am going to stop sleeping in E's room. I will remove the futon from his room so I can't change my mind. If he gets up in the night, I will go in once, hug him and put him back down, and leave. I will then let him cry. I feel bad still, but at this age it's more anger than any real sense that he's abandoned so I think I can justify it somewhat.
My husband might decide to sleep downstairs for the duration of this new sleep training and I will have to keep J's light on and door shut to minimize the disturbance to him. I will be lying awake in a separate room listening to him and timing the minutes of his protest. I will let him cry at nap time too. I hate it, but it's either that or continue with the daily disruptions that are affecting everyone.
I will keep posting through the week as I do this, and update any progress (or lack thereof). Today it's a lack thereof. I put him down for a nap one hour ago, and he is still screaming. He was well-fed and tired and I read to him and all that stuff, but now it's past his lunch time and I'm debating whether to get him up to eat and try again. Plus, the new neighbours just left their dog out in the backyard and he won't stop barking under E's window. Where's the pellet gun? Defeated on day one. I'll try again in an hour.
As I write this, he is currently in his crib because he had a rough night (more on that later), screaming for all he's worth and decidedly not napping. I don't know what happened because there has been no big change in routine for sleep time or day time, he is not currently cutting teeth, and he's not going through a growth spurt. I've ruled out every possible cause I can think of, but last week he started a rebellion.
It started with his middle of the night wakings. He had stopped waking at eleven some of the time (he no longer gets milk at night so that helps), but whether or not he woke at eleven, he would always wake before 4 am. I'm not complaining. That's improvement. But instead of being happy with a one minute cuddle and going back to sleep, he started throwing temper tantrums. They got worse and forgive me, but at four in the morning there's only so much of that I can take. After about an hour of the wailing, banging walls, and throwing everything he could reach, I finally took him into bed with me. I know that's only reinforcing the crying but I am so tired from all of this that it really seems like the last resort in the wee hours.
That's exactly the problem. I am resolved during the day and even at his bedtime to let him cry so he learns, but when I've been woken from sleep and awake listening to his anger for a while, I get to the point that sleep is the only thing that matters. I've decided I'm not a good mom between 12am and 6 am, because consistency is so important but I can't stick to my guns in this situation. The night tantrums have led to extreme problems with nap time again, so it's back to square one.
Before anyone thinks, "It's just a phase, it will pass," I know it will. Even if if doesn't, there's only seventeen and a half more years until he moves out and I can make it.The simple fact is, everyone in this house is sleeping poorly because of this. J has woken up several times and his anxiety skyrockets because of it, and my husband and I are bickering a lot more and everyone's on edge. I have gotten five hours of sleep in the past three nights, and I can't function very well. It sucks.
So keeping in mind that it's the middle of the day and I'm thinking as clearly as I can, given the lack of sleep, I am going to tell you my plan. Whether I stick to it or not is anyone's guess, but I will give it everything I've got for at least a week to see if there's improvement. I am going to stop sleeping in E's room. I will remove the futon from his room so I can't change my mind. If he gets up in the night, I will go in once, hug him and put him back down, and leave. I will then let him cry. I feel bad still, but at this age it's more anger than any real sense that he's abandoned so I think I can justify it somewhat.
My husband might decide to sleep downstairs for the duration of this new sleep training and I will have to keep J's light on and door shut to minimize the disturbance to him. I will be lying awake in a separate room listening to him and timing the minutes of his protest. I will let him cry at nap time too. I hate it, but it's either that or continue with the daily disruptions that are affecting everyone.
I will keep posting through the week as I do this, and update any progress (or lack thereof). Today it's a lack thereof. I put him down for a nap one hour ago, and he is still screaming. He was well-fed and tired and I read to him and all that stuff, but now it's past his lunch time and I'm debating whether to get him up to eat and try again. Plus, the new neighbours just left their dog out in the backyard and he won't stop barking under E's window. Where's the pellet gun? Defeated on day one. I'll try again in an hour.
Sunday 3 March 2013
Good weeds
I'm sure every parent knows that kids grow like weeds. Normally I avoid analogies and cliche phrases like that, but it's so true. Maybe that's why the term has been around for so long.
With spring just around the corner (my fingers are crossed anyway), it was time to go through all the warm weather clothes from last year. Here's an easy formula for buying seasonal clothes:
1. Gather all of last year's seasonal clothes.
2. Sort what won't fit.
3. Put the small-ish t-shirts and shorts into the pyjama drawer (because who really cares if their belly shows while they're asleep?)
4. Donate or lend the rest
5. Make a written or mental list of what they need.
6. Look for all the pre-seasonal sales and go to it to get waht they need.
I prefer doing this all in one day. If it must be two, I do all the sorting and list-making on Day One and the shopping on Day Two. Here's how it worked for me this year.
After sorting through all the boys' clothes, I realized that this spring, we are starting almost from scratch. J needed 8 t-shirts and 6 pairs of shorts, as well as socks and running shoes. E needed 8 t-shirts, 8 pairs of shorts, and shoes. Before you ask why on earth they need so many clothes, don't I ever do laundry, I will say this: the laundry is never-ending at our house. They both go through at least two outfits every day, because no matter how appealing that napkin is, the shirt is always better to wipe the mouth on.
I went to Walmart because they have some awesome sales this week, and I ended up getting everything on the list for $80. I don't like spending that much money at any time in one go, but I figure for two kids and two seasons (spring and summer) worth of clothes, that's pretty good. So now both children are set until next fall, when I have to do it all over again.
Another side note. J had short little legs for a long long time. It is only this past year that they really started growing (from Sept-March he went up three pant sizes in length). It was pretty funny to me that some of the shorts he was wearing last year were a size two, and they went straight to E this year because now J's a size six. E's got the same short little legs, and all the twos look like capris on him, but the smaller ones won't get past his waist. The good news is, if E follows the same pattern, I won't need to buy him shorts for four years.
With spring just around the corner (my fingers are crossed anyway), it was time to go through all the warm weather clothes from last year. Here's an easy formula for buying seasonal clothes:
1. Gather all of last year's seasonal clothes.
2. Sort what won't fit.
3. Put the small-ish t-shirts and shorts into the pyjama drawer (because who really cares if their belly shows while they're asleep?)
4. Donate or lend the rest
5. Make a written or mental list of what they need.
6. Look for all the pre-seasonal sales and go to it to get waht they need.
I prefer doing this all in one day. If it must be two, I do all the sorting and list-making on Day One and the shopping on Day Two. Here's how it worked for me this year.
After sorting through all the boys' clothes, I realized that this spring, we are starting almost from scratch. J needed 8 t-shirts and 6 pairs of shorts, as well as socks and running shoes. E needed 8 t-shirts, 8 pairs of shorts, and shoes. Before you ask why on earth they need so many clothes, don't I ever do laundry, I will say this: the laundry is never-ending at our house. They both go through at least two outfits every day, because no matter how appealing that napkin is, the shirt is always better to wipe the mouth on.
I went to Walmart because they have some awesome sales this week, and I ended up getting everything on the list for $80. I don't like spending that much money at any time in one go, but I figure for two kids and two seasons (spring and summer) worth of clothes, that's pretty good. So now both children are set until next fall, when I have to do it all over again.
Another side note. J had short little legs for a long long time. It is only this past year that they really started growing (from Sept-March he went up three pant sizes in length). It was pretty funny to me that some of the shorts he was wearing last year were a size two, and they went straight to E this year because now J's a size six. E's got the same short little legs, and all the twos look like capris on him, but the smaller ones won't get past his waist. The good news is, if E follows the same pattern, I won't need to buy him shorts for four years.
Friday 1 March 2013
A day in the life...
I have had several conversations with parents about what on earth goes through a toddler's mind sometimes. We all wonder. The things they do are incredibly cute, but sometimes just don't make any sense. With that in mind, today I am going to describe a typical day for E, in a 17-monoth old voice.
I woke up at 6 today, and Mommy brought me into bed with her. I know she's tired but I still like to get up and play on the bed while she tried to convince me to go back to sleep. It's an hour of quality time and snuggles, but we're both fully awake. Sometimes I stick my finger up her nose or in her ears when she's not looking, because it's funny to hear her say no.
At seven, my brother comes in to "wake us up." Mommy carries me downstairs and drags herself to the instant coffee, while I go through the fridge and take everything out. I always decide on yogourt, but the food looks better on the floor than in the fridge. I usually have cereal too, and when I'm not hungry anymore I dump it all out on my tray and mix up the soggy bits with milk and yogourt. Mommy always wipes it up way too soon, and then I'm off to play.
Mommy tries to engage me in "smart and educational" activities, like block building and puzzles. Sometimes I humour her, but mostly I go straight to the cars. Why would I want to build a tower when I can zip cars under the couch and get her to dig them out? Cause and effect, Mommy. That's educational!
Sometimes we go out in the mornings, to the library or somewhere else I can play. I don't go in the stroller anymore, which is great. I sit on my own bus seat and look at everyone. I won't talk to strangers though, or even wave at them. I smile but that's all they're getting from me. I play with other kids, but not much. They don't share all that well so I prefer to do my own thing. Mommy talks to a lot of people, no matter who they are, but I'm busy with more important stuff.
At home again I usually have lunch and a nap. Mommy always reads before a nap. I don't scream as much as I used to when I get in my crib, but I still whine a bit. Mommy has to know who the boss is, even if I kind of like naps now. I'm proving a point that I sleep when I want to sleep, and no one can tell me different.
The afternoons are usually time for more playing and some exercise. One of my favourite things to do is go outside, where I can see trees and cats and birds. I love to walk back and forth on the sidewalk, although I would probably just go and go and go if Mommy didn't turn me around. I want to cross the road on my own, but she won't let me yet and I have to scream when that happens. There's not really much else I like to do outside, just walk and turn and walk and turn. Sometimes I point to things, but not usually.
Inside is a great place for walking too. I go around the kitchen and living room over and over. Sometimes I'll pretend to hug Mommy and then run away. I have taught her that this is time to play "catch me if you can." Mommy isn't very fast, but sometimes I stop and let her catch up to me so she doesn't feel bad. Circle walking is really fun if I'm holding something in each hand. It doesn't matter what really, but lately I like holding two pails. If I've only got one hand full, I sometimes tip over.
I eat my snack until I'm full, but I have to complain if Mommy hasn't given me projectiles. Afternoon snack is for eating and throwing, and some things are easier than others. Berries work well, as do crackers, cookies, and apples.
After snack, Mommy tries to engage me again. After ten minutes of playing with her, I usually get distracted and find something else to do. I will watch J play and do whatever he's doing. Sometimes I colour, although Mommy doesn't like it when I do it on the walls or floor. It's supposed to be on paper but that's not nearly as interesting.
I usually get a specific something to play with while Mommy makes dinner, like bowls and spoons or puzzles.It's my chance to try to get upstairs without her noticing. If I'm real quiet, sometimes I make it halfway up before she knows.
Dinner is the family meal, although I usually get served first, then J, then Daddy and Mommy. If I'm going to be picky, this is the meal I do it. I love fish, meat, and eggs. The rest is whether or not I'm in the mood for it. I need to get exactly what I want for dessert, because if someone gives me cookies instead of crackers and I want crackers, I will grunt and squeal and push at my tray until I get taken out. Then I have to waddle over the the right cupboard and show them what I want. They try to get me to use words, but pointing is my preferred method of asking for something.
After dinner, I'm too tired to focus on much but I usually help tidy up a bit. I slam my toys into their proper places and gather bits of garbage from the floor. If they don't look tasty, I will put them in the bin. Mommy always gets the first turn sweeping, but then she lets me go around and get the spots she's missed.
When it's almost bedtime I get really hyper. I drive my train around and around until someone grabs me and forces me into pajamas. Then I get my sippy cup of milk and Mommy reads a book to me. Most nights I go to bed okay, but in the interest of maintaining the status quo, I pick at least two nights a week to scream for half an hour. That's just because. I can't spoil my parents or they'll get complacent. It's been a good day.
I woke up at 6 today, and Mommy brought me into bed with her. I know she's tired but I still like to get up and play on the bed while she tried to convince me to go back to sleep. It's an hour of quality time and snuggles, but we're both fully awake. Sometimes I stick my finger up her nose or in her ears when she's not looking, because it's funny to hear her say no.
At seven, my brother comes in to "wake us up." Mommy carries me downstairs and drags herself to the instant coffee, while I go through the fridge and take everything out. I always decide on yogourt, but the food looks better on the floor than in the fridge. I usually have cereal too, and when I'm not hungry anymore I dump it all out on my tray and mix up the soggy bits with milk and yogourt. Mommy always wipes it up way too soon, and then I'm off to play.
Mommy tries to engage me in "smart and educational" activities, like block building and puzzles. Sometimes I humour her, but mostly I go straight to the cars. Why would I want to build a tower when I can zip cars under the couch and get her to dig them out? Cause and effect, Mommy. That's educational!
Sometimes we go out in the mornings, to the library or somewhere else I can play. I don't go in the stroller anymore, which is great. I sit on my own bus seat and look at everyone. I won't talk to strangers though, or even wave at them. I smile but that's all they're getting from me. I play with other kids, but not much. They don't share all that well so I prefer to do my own thing. Mommy talks to a lot of people, no matter who they are, but I'm busy with more important stuff.
At home again I usually have lunch and a nap. Mommy always reads before a nap. I don't scream as much as I used to when I get in my crib, but I still whine a bit. Mommy has to know who the boss is, even if I kind of like naps now. I'm proving a point that I sleep when I want to sleep, and no one can tell me different.
The afternoons are usually time for more playing and some exercise. One of my favourite things to do is go outside, where I can see trees and cats and birds. I love to walk back and forth on the sidewalk, although I would probably just go and go and go if Mommy didn't turn me around. I want to cross the road on my own, but she won't let me yet and I have to scream when that happens. There's not really much else I like to do outside, just walk and turn and walk and turn. Sometimes I point to things, but not usually.
Inside is a great place for walking too. I go around the kitchen and living room over and over. Sometimes I'll pretend to hug Mommy and then run away. I have taught her that this is time to play "catch me if you can." Mommy isn't very fast, but sometimes I stop and let her catch up to me so she doesn't feel bad. Circle walking is really fun if I'm holding something in each hand. It doesn't matter what really, but lately I like holding two pails. If I've only got one hand full, I sometimes tip over.
I eat my snack until I'm full, but I have to complain if Mommy hasn't given me projectiles. Afternoon snack is for eating and throwing, and some things are easier than others. Berries work well, as do crackers, cookies, and apples.
After snack, Mommy tries to engage me again. After ten minutes of playing with her, I usually get distracted and find something else to do. I will watch J play and do whatever he's doing. Sometimes I colour, although Mommy doesn't like it when I do it on the walls or floor. It's supposed to be on paper but that's not nearly as interesting.
I usually get a specific something to play with while Mommy makes dinner, like bowls and spoons or puzzles.It's my chance to try to get upstairs without her noticing. If I'm real quiet, sometimes I make it halfway up before she knows.
Dinner is the family meal, although I usually get served first, then J, then Daddy and Mommy. If I'm going to be picky, this is the meal I do it. I love fish, meat, and eggs. The rest is whether or not I'm in the mood for it. I need to get exactly what I want for dessert, because if someone gives me cookies instead of crackers and I want crackers, I will grunt and squeal and push at my tray until I get taken out. Then I have to waddle over the the right cupboard and show them what I want. They try to get me to use words, but pointing is my preferred method of asking for something.
After dinner, I'm too tired to focus on much but I usually help tidy up a bit. I slam my toys into their proper places and gather bits of garbage from the floor. If they don't look tasty, I will put them in the bin. Mommy always gets the first turn sweeping, but then she lets me go around and get the spots she's missed.
When it's almost bedtime I get really hyper. I drive my train around and around until someone grabs me and forces me into pajamas. Then I get my sippy cup of milk and Mommy reads a book to me. Most nights I go to bed okay, but in the interest of maintaining the status quo, I pick at least two nights a week to scream for half an hour. That's just because. I can't spoil my parents or they'll get complacent. It's been a good day.
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