Friday, December 23, 2011

"School" & other updates

Chris and I have taken the plunge to put Helaina into a mommy day program for 2 days a week, 5 hours a day.  The intent is to give her some other structure and socialization with kids her age, that does not include mommy being "Julie the cruise director."  This will also give me a few hours with the new baby upon his/her arrival next month.  (oh yes, in just 3-4 weeks, we will have another bundle of joy) and a bit of time to prepare last minute items before baby is here.

Finding part time schools in Honolulu posed a challenge as most parents use 5 day a week service but we are happy with the place we found.  It's at a Methodist Church and the ratio's are really good.  Her teachers have all been there for 15-20 years.  When you ask her which part she likes best it's sing songs and of course, snack / lunch time.  She's a girl after my own heart.    So far (3 weeks in) she hasn't picked up a sickness or other kids bad habits that we have seen but I am braced for both.

She may be cutting eyes at me already
This was orientation day

1st official day
Froggy Back Pack (or "Pack Back" as she calls it)

On a side note, the school asked for everything we bring to be labeled with her name.  We splurged for a labeler.  I sent Chris the below picture and his reply was to "step away from the labeler."  :o)  







As I should have predicted, she had no qualms at jumping right in and was not even concerned if I left or stayed.  I had to remind her I was leaving and ask for a kiss and hug.  (sigh)  At least this will hopefully toughen mommy up for when she actually starts school.  Maybe her indifference will make welcoming the new baby a little easier and I will feel a little more needed again.

OK, who am I kidding, we about to be plunged back into new born -- stretched too thin, no sleep zone.  -- I'm sure I will feel a lot needed by everyone.  -- Including my toddler who has never had to share attention with anyone but bebe (who often takes a back burner - sometimes even gracefully).  I know that there are those of my multi-children friends who laugh or have laughed at my "stress" of having only one child and my fear of moving into 2, especially since I have been at home.  However, it's a hard thing for me to have a different perspective when this is all I've know.  -- I may speculate that you were once in the same place as well  --- time has just jaded your memory as I hope it does mine as well.

On other news/updates -- I HAVE A HUGE BELLY!  Logically this should come as no surprise but looking down or in the mirror at the extra 6 to 7 lbs of baby + 4 lbs of uterus etc..it's not something I've been able to get over.  I can't complain because outside of a few back issues, I've so far had a relatively easy pregnancy (at least on the 2nd and 3rd trimesters).  Most of our "checklist" items have been complete.  Let's not discuss names because that is a sensitive subject at this late hour in the game.  Actually If I were to go into labor early, I fairly certain that I would cross my legs and refuse to have this baby unless we could finalize our boy names.  It's probably a boy just because we don't have that part fully worked out yet - at least that's my thinking.  Chris is thinking girl still.  Most of my friends are all over the board.  What are your thoughts?????????????? (pictures of belly to follow soon!)

PS.  I know there is an issue for leaving comments on the blog but I'm not sure how to fix it and right now, it's not that big of a priority.  If you've got something to say, email or post on FB.

Much love to you and your families for Christmas.