No he's not crawling yet...but he is moving in every other way possible! And according to other new mom's-I should relish in every non-mobile moment!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
E on the move...........
No he's not crawling yet...but he is moving in every other way possible! And according to other new mom's-I should relish in every non-mobile moment!
To Be or Not To Be
Today I will bring up a controversial topic. Why not? Being a mom is controversial .
Part A. Over a year ago when I was pregnant Andy and I were spending some time with another couple who had a daughter who was probably about 5 or 6 months old. During dinner we had a conversation about what they would like for Lily in the future. For those of you who know me, I like to play question games and this one went like this:
If you got to pick only (ONLY) 3 (specific) extracurricular activities for you're daughter to participate in....what would they be?
They spent some time hemming and hawing over sports, art/music, leadership etc. When they had answered they turned the tables on us and asked us what we wanted for our future child. Our answers were different not knowing if we were going to have a girl or a boy.
Part B. Eli is now eating fruit and vegetable puffs after meals. He is getting better at putting them into his mouth himself. One night I watched and he DID put it in with his left hand. I got very excited. I know it might be too early to tell, but as the rest of the family (Andy, Bailee and myself) are all left handed, it was something we were very curious about. Would Eli be left handed?
So putting A. and B. together-here is the controversial topic. Is it ok for parents to WANT something for their child? I grew up playing all kinds of sports (tennis, soccer, basketball, softball, swimming, dance etc) and I also played in the band (first played the Violin, then the trombone and even dabbled with the piano for 1 year in middleschool). I was also in Girl Scouts for many years and a slew of other activities that made my mom drive me around like crazy! I don't feel that my parents ever forced me into anything. They did encourage me to participate and supported me like crazy, all the way up through college-attending as many games as possible. They listened to me complain about coaches, teammates and practices. They came to my concerts, bought me new cleats, paid for toe surgery, watched me win and lose and washed all my dirty laundry/uniforms.
I still have a letter my mom wrote to me when I played in a doubles tennis match against our rival North High and lost by the smallest gap-but lost none the less. My mom told me in the letter that as she stood next to the North High coach she clapped and screamed so loud for us that she cried.
I also remember playing soccer with the boys for many years when I was little. I know the boys hated when the ball came to me and I was embarrassed and scared. But then I tried out for a traveling girls soccer team, made it, became a starter and was one of the fastest on the field. I got my picture in the newspaper in highschool, announced over the loudspeaker and went on to play at the collegiate level where I was honored as an all-conference player. All while getting good grades and having the time of my life. I can't thank my parents enough for putting me on the Gator's soccer team.
So as a parent and all the support that we will do-is it OK for us to WANT our child to participate in a specific activity? There is a LONG list of things I want Eli to at least TRY. I stand by that statement-at least TRY. If he hates it, doesn't enjoy it or excels at something else-we'll move on. I am definitely not a "Beauty Pagent Mom" where I would put my child through something with a lot of pressure but I do want Eli to experience the idea of team and individual sports where he gets to play physical and strategic games. I also want him to dabble in the arts-playing music, singing, acting or dancing.
Below is a list of things I can imagine lil Eli doing and that I would be SO excited to watch while clapping in the stands (this doesn't mean whatever he picks I won't be excited for-I know mother's who never knew anything about wrestling to get realllly in to it when their son started):
Soccer (of course), swimming, tennis, basketball, football, band, orchestra, choir, forensics, student council, dance (yes I would LOVE to see little Eli tap dance-but just until about age 6! ha-if he wants he can continue!), boy scouts....well that is just the beginning of the list. I then think about all the different careers he could get involved in: teacher, pilot, lawyer, police man, fireman, doctor, professor, artist, musician, athlete,mail man, business man, designer, architect, construction worker, salesman, plumber, anchorman, model, chef, sports announcer, writer etc!
There are so many opportunities. One thing I hope he does become...for sure...is a Dad (a left handed dad!). In time...absolutely no rush.
I apologize to anyone who feels strongly about letting your child decide what he wants to do and thinks this post is nonsense. I DO feel strongly about letting Eli choose, but as a parent of a small child who cannot make those choices for himself yet-I also support the idea of getting him involved in anything that I can so he can experience things and make that choice. So to me, this post is just an outlet for my thoughts; just a fun way to think- about him growing up and all that I will see him do. For now, I just am so glad he is my baby.
So what do you think- will Eli be left handed???
Part A. Over a year ago when I was pregnant Andy and I were spending some time with another couple who had a daughter who was probably about 5 or 6 months old. During dinner we had a conversation about what they would like for Lily in the future. For those of you who know me, I like to play question games and this one went like this:
If you got to pick only (ONLY) 3 (specific) extracurricular activities for you're daughter to participate in....what would they be?
They spent some time hemming and hawing over sports, art/music, leadership etc. When they had answered they turned the tables on us and asked us what we wanted for our future child. Our answers were different not knowing if we were going to have a girl or a boy.
Part B. Eli is now eating fruit and vegetable puffs after meals. He is getting better at putting them into his mouth himself. One night I watched and he DID put it in with his left hand. I got very excited. I know it might be too early to tell, but as the rest of the family (Andy, Bailee and myself) are all left handed, it was something we were very curious about. Would Eli be left handed?
So putting A. and B. together-here is the controversial topic. Is it ok for parents to WANT something for their child? I grew up playing all kinds of sports (tennis, soccer, basketball, softball, swimming, dance etc) and I also played in the band (first played the Violin, then the trombone and even dabbled with the piano for 1 year in middleschool). I was also in Girl Scouts for many years and a slew of other activities that made my mom drive me around like crazy! I don't feel that my parents ever forced me into anything. They did encourage me to participate and supported me like crazy, all the way up through college-attending as many games as possible. They listened to me complain about coaches, teammates and practices. They came to my concerts, bought me new cleats, paid for toe surgery, watched me win and lose and washed all my dirty laundry/uniforms.
I still have a letter my mom wrote to me when I played in a doubles tennis match against our rival North High and lost by the smallest gap-but lost none the less. My mom told me in the letter that as she stood next to the North High coach she clapped and screamed so loud for us that she cried.
I also remember playing soccer with the boys for many years when I was little. I know the boys hated when the ball came to me and I was embarrassed and scared. But then I tried out for a traveling girls soccer team, made it, became a starter and was one of the fastest on the field. I got my picture in the newspaper in highschool, announced over the loudspeaker and went on to play at the collegiate level where I was honored as an all-conference player. All while getting good grades and having the time of my life. I can't thank my parents enough for putting me on the Gator's soccer team.
So as a parent and all the support that we will do-is it OK for us to WANT our child to participate in a specific activity? There is a LONG list of things I want Eli to at least TRY. I stand by that statement-at least TRY. If he hates it, doesn't enjoy it or excels at something else-we'll move on. I am definitely not a "Beauty Pagent Mom" where I would put my child through something with a lot of pressure but I do want Eli to experience the idea of team and individual sports where he gets to play physical and strategic games. I also want him to dabble in the arts-playing music, singing, acting or dancing.
Below is a list of things I can imagine lil Eli doing and that I would be SO excited to watch while clapping in the stands (this doesn't mean whatever he picks I won't be excited for-I know mother's who never knew anything about wrestling to get realllly in to it when their son started):
Soccer (of course), swimming, tennis, basketball, football, band, orchestra, choir, forensics, student council, dance (yes I would LOVE to see little Eli tap dance-but just until about age 6! ha-if he wants he can continue!), boy scouts....well that is just the beginning of the list. I then think about all the different careers he could get involved in: teacher, pilot, lawyer, police man, fireman, doctor, professor, artist, musician, athlete,mail man, business man, designer, architect, construction worker, salesman, plumber, anchorman, model, chef, sports announcer, writer etc!
There are so many opportunities. One thing I hope he does become...for sure...is a Dad (a left handed dad!). In time...absolutely no rush.
I apologize to anyone who feels strongly about letting your child decide what he wants to do and thinks this post is nonsense. I DO feel strongly about letting Eli choose, but as a parent of a small child who cannot make those choices for himself yet-I also support the idea of getting him involved in anything that I can so he can experience things and make that choice. So to me, this post is just an outlet for my thoughts; just a fun way to think- about him growing up and all that I will see him do. For now, I just am so glad he is my baby.
So what do you think- will Eli be left handed???
Roeder Wrap Up
Last week was a special family week. Ms. Debbie went on vacation and left us stranded! But to no avail-Grandma Roeder (Or Gamma Wader as Eli would say) came to our rescue. And she stayed for the whole week! She helped in so many ways. It was unbelievable how helpful it was to have an extra set of hands during the week. Gamma helped feed, bathe and entertain the little E-bug (MANY walks and meals were prepared). I can't imagine how much more helpful it will be when there is another lil Roeder (no I'm not pregnant!). And it was even more fun to watch American Idol, Survivor and the Olympics with Gamma at night when the E-bug went to sleep!
Gamma was very relaxed and listened to all my "motherly instructions" and did everything to make me comfortable. Eli even napped better for her! I was so jealous....but it made for a happier boy.
Grandpa Roeder (Or Gampa Wader as Eli would say) and Aunt Monica showed up for an overnight visit on Friday, as well as dinner out with the Kohler Roeder's. On Saturday we drove to Whitewater to watch Uncle Greg Roeder play basketball! He plays for UW-Superior and it was parents night at UW Whitewater and boy was it LOUD in the gym. Eli was very in tune to all the horns, buzzers, whistles and all the shouts of encouragement from Gamma and Aunt Monica. I enjoyed watching Andy hold Eli on his lap (For the WHOLE game) and take in an exciting basketball (Andy's very favorite sport) game!
It was quiet around here today. Andy spent the morning with Elijah while I helped out at work and then he took him to see Great Grandpa in Madison. So I had some alone/"me" time. It has been good, but I am sad because I miss my boys dearly and cannot wait for them to come home to me!Below are some pics from this family-filled week.
Ps-Bailee was in her glory all week-as she got a lot of extra attention. Though I did find it funny that I TRY to clean up the house and get the "guest room" all ready with towels etc. for the visitors. Look where Bailee decides to nap?
Gamma was very relaxed and listened to all my "motherly instructions" and did everything to make me comfortable. Eli even napped better for her! I was so jealous....but it made for a happier boy.
Grandpa Roeder (Or Gampa Wader as Eli would say) and Aunt Monica showed up for an overnight visit on Friday, as well as dinner out with the Kohler Roeder's. On Saturday we drove to Whitewater to watch Uncle Greg Roeder play basketball! He plays for UW-Superior and it was parents night at UW Whitewater and boy was it LOUD in the gym. Eli was very in tune to all the horns, buzzers, whistles and all the shouts of encouragement from Gamma and Aunt Monica. I enjoyed watching Andy hold Eli on his lap (For the WHOLE game) and take in an exciting basketball (Andy's very favorite sport) game!
It was quiet around here today. Andy spent the morning with Elijah while I helped out at work and then he took him to see Great Grandpa in Madison. So I had some alone/"me" time. It has been good, but I am sad because I miss my boys dearly and cannot wait for them to come home to me!Below are some pics from this family-filled week.
Ps-Bailee was in her glory all week-as she got a lot of extra attention. Though I did find it funny that I TRY to clean up the house and get the "guest room" all ready with towels etc. for the visitors. Look where Bailee decides to nap?
New Tunes
Hey all! I added some new songs for you to listen to.
These are songs that are on my current favorite playlist.
Here is why I am listening to them:
1. Hey Soul Sister by Train: This is Andy's favorite song right now, and he likes to jam to it while driving-so now I do too! I can't help but bop to this song. Although I know it will probably be overplayed on the radio any day now...........
2. My Baby Blue by Dave Matthews Band: A song suggested by one of my greatest friends. After listening to it just once, I was hooked. Thanks Peggy!!!
3. Indigo Girl by Watershed: This has always been my "Bailee" song. For some reason I always loved singing this to her (even though I never listened to the lyrics as a whole). She is my special little girl, always will be. I especially like how at the end it says "you are the queen tonight". Anyone who knows Bailee would understand.
4. More than Life by Whitley: This song is soothing and mellow-just my style. That's the only reason I'm in to it.
5. Sweet Baby James: I actually really enjoy the version by James Taylor but I couldn't find it to add to my playlist, so instead we will all listen to it sung by Aaron Miller. The reason I like this song is because Uncle Chris sings this to his sons when they go to bed. Before I had a baby, at family get togethers I would hear Chris in the backseat or in the other room singing this very softly to his boys. I thought it was so very special. I love the song for only that reason. Cheers Uncle Chris!
6. Nightswimming by REM: A long time favorite of mine, from a band that has always topped my list!
7. Central Reservation by Beth Orton: Another of my very favorite artists---and this song brings me back to college. I would play this loudly in my dorm room. I don't think anyone else really liked it!
8. Waiting for my Real Life to Begin by Colin Hay: Same reason as #4. Anyone who knows my many many playlists from the past would know this fits in with my "style" or choice in music.
If you take the time to listen, even to just 1 of these songs-let me know what you think!
These are songs that are on my current favorite playlist.
Here is why I am listening to them:
1. Hey Soul Sister by Train: This is Andy's favorite song right now, and he likes to jam to it while driving-so now I do too! I can't help but bop to this song. Although I know it will probably be overplayed on the radio any day now...........
2. My Baby Blue by Dave Matthews Band: A song suggested by one of my greatest friends. After listening to it just once, I was hooked. Thanks Peggy!!!
3. Indigo Girl by Watershed: This has always been my "Bailee" song. For some reason I always loved singing this to her (even though I never listened to the lyrics as a whole). She is my special little girl, always will be. I especially like how at the end it says "you are the queen tonight". Anyone who knows Bailee would understand.
4. More than Life by Whitley: This song is soothing and mellow-just my style. That's the only reason I'm in to it.
5. Sweet Baby James: I actually really enjoy the version by James Taylor but I couldn't find it to add to my playlist, so instead we will all listen to it sung by Aaron Miller. The reason I like this song is because Uncle Chris sings this to his sons when they go to bed. Before I had a baby, at family get togethers I would hear Chris in the backseat or in the other room singing this very softly to his boys. I thought it was so very special. I love the song for only that reason. Cheers Uncle Chris!
6. Nightswimming by REM: A long time favorite of mine, from a band that has always topped my list!
7. Central Reservation by Beth Orton: Another of my very favorite artists---and this song brings me back to college. I would play this loudly in my dorm room. I don't think anyone else really liked it!
8. Waiting for my Real Life to Begin by Colin Hay: Same reason as #4. Anyone who knows my many many playlists from the past would know this fits in with my "style" or choice in music.
If you take the time to listen, even to just 1 of these songs-let me know what you think!
Monday, February 15, 2010
I wonder why it took so long for me to realize I could sing to Eli at his bed/crib side in the ICU.
Just because he wasn't in my arms at all times…I could still sing to him and I did...but it took me a few days to get up the guts. Maybe it was because I was in shock. Maybe I was worried about what the nurses would think-there wasn't that much privacy. Maybe it just didn't sink in. I like to think that when I DID finally sing that it also soothed the other little infants who were trying so hard to get better.
Dear Eli,
The songs I sang to you were:
You are my Sunshine
Eli had a little dog (To the tune of Mary had a little lamb)
Elijah Elijah Mommy Loves You
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Love, Mommy
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Girls Weekend, Not Moms Weekend
This past weekend I got together with 3 of my college friends.
I have experienced some of the best years of my life with these gals. We played soccer together for UW-Stout and became roommates by renting the "Mustard Seed" aka "The Vortex".
Since I haven't been away from Elijah for a whole night, they agreed to fly/drive here and stay (free lodging) at my house so that I wouldn't have to leave my lil man. Andy helped clean the house and was on Eli-duty.
I have experienced some of the best years of my life with these gals. We played soccer together for UW-Stout and became roommates by renting the "Mustard Seed" aka "The Vortex".
Man did we have some times.....together we:
trained hard (pre-season)
competed against others
learned
cooked and ate
laughed
cried (man did we cry)
yelled
studied
slept
partied
caught mice
cleaned (some more than others)
fought
lovedled and initiated
shared
and the list goes on and on....here we are back in the day
This weekend we went out to dinner, shared some drinks, played a few games, chatted and reminisced. We had fun remembering things such as: boyfriends of the past, 21st bday parties, getting in trouble, yelling out the upstairs window at the neighbors, hating our soccer coach and long bus rides, power hours, pointless practices, freshmen initiation, other past roommates and female drama, our departures from Stout, jobs we had and left, classes we took and studied for, spaghetti dinner, arguing about the phone and the thermostat, ordering pizza and playing Dr. Mario...................
We spent time discussing our current lives and sharing about the things that trouble us these days. We are all in different places but we are all successful in our careers, drive cars, have people we care about in our lives and have our health. We are a lucky clan of girls. We shared laughs about how to draw the word "Dangle" in pictionary, we enjoyed good food and drinks and even argued over a $100 bet!
To top it off they all got a few moments with Eli. Andy was the perfect daddy playing and caring for him in the background.
Ahhhhhhhh this weekend was so good for my soul!
Here we are now (lordy how we have NOT changed):
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Kettering
Dear Uncle Greg,
I was looking good today! Would you agree?
The next time I see you will you please read me a story? Thanks Dr. Greg!
Love,
Elijah
ps-look what mom's been making me?!
I was looking good today! Would you agree?
The next time I see you will you please read me a story? Thanks Dr. Greg!
Love,
Elijah
ps-look what mom's been making me?!
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