Potty Training, 101

So, Madeline has been showing a great deal of interest in the potty, as mentioned in previous posts, so Derek and I thought we'd give potty training a whirl over this past weekend (we were both off on Memorial Day which gave us an extra day to work with her).  The first morning, I think Derek and I both wanted to throw in the towel - this training is HARD WORK!  But, by lunch, she asked to go to the potty a few times.  Day 2 brought fewer accidents (just 2!) and we ventured out to Mimi and Grandbuddy's for dinner, where she had 2 successful trips to the potty. By day 3, we were accident-free!  This included her playing in the pool, and asking to get out and go to the potty.  Can we say PROUD?!

Her first day back at Bozenna's, she had 2 accidents, but I think that is totally expected.  Besides, 2 accidents and the rest successes!?  I'd say that's pretty darn good.  She has continued to ask to potty at home and is starting to understand nighttime. For the record, we weren't even going to touch nighttime potty because I don't think her bladder is there just yet.  But, she has woken us up a couple of times and asked to potty in the middle of the night.  We'll keep the diapers on for now at night time, but we're on the right track.  I can't tell you how proud we are of our smart girl.  She blows us away with what she knows and what she can do.  Blessed.

Madeline's 2 year check-up

We had a good report from the doctor today at Madeline's check-up.  

She weighs 25 lb. 13 oz. (38%), length is 35 1/4 (84%), head is 19 1/4" (83%).

The only bad news we got is confirmation that she has pink eye (first time!), as we suspected given her swollen, crusty eye. :(  She's a trouper though and we have some antibiotic drops for her, so tomorrow will be a better day for her (and therefore - for mom and dad, too!).

Dr. Steele was very pleased with Madeline's progress and growth, overall and told us to keep up the good work!

Celebrating M's 2nd!

On May 18, we had our sweet family over to eat, drink, be merry - and celebrate the coolest 2 year old I know.  We enjoyed good visits, BBQ & fried chicken and even a little bounce house fun (thanks to Mimi and Grandbuddy).  Madeline had a ball with everyone and as you'll see below, thoroughly enjoyed her birthday cake - she had a few bites and then applauded and said "yay, cake!!!"  

So, again, happiest of birthdays to you, sweet love.  You deserve nothing less than the absolute best!

Happy 2nd birthday, Madeline

Precious Madeline,

It’s hard to believe that it has been two years since we held you in our arms for the first time.  I used to smile and nod when people would say, “it goes by so fast.”  Now that I’ve learned this to be true, I yearn to slow it down a little bit.  In what seems to be the blink of an eye, you’re not a baby anymore, sweet angel.  You’re a big girl.

What a lovely big girl you’ve become. You’re a beautiful child, Madeline, on the inside and out.  Your spirit is so kind and your heart is so full of love.  You have such a  sensitive side, a kindness about you, that enables you to care for those around you. You’re such a nuturer – always making sure that your loved ones are happy! You’re also determined and strong-willed.  You stand up for yourself and clearly express what is it that you need or want. An excellent combination of natures.

Your engaging mind blows us away every single day.  You’re so, so smart and pick up on anything and everything that is thrown your way.  We cherish our conversations with you and bask in the glory of watching you learn and figure things out for yourself…and delight in the fact that we understand what you’re asking for, what you need, what’s the matter. 

These two years have been the best of our lives.  You are a treasure and a blessing to our family, Madeline.  You make us proud every single day and we are forever grateful that God sent you to live with us. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings! Our hearts – and cups – runneth over.

All our love,

Mama and Daddy

Mama's Day 2013

"Who can find a virtuous woman? She is far more precious than jewels...strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and loving instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the activities of her household and is never idle. Her sons rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also praises her: many women are capable, but you surpass them all! Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears The Lord will be praised. "
- Proverbs 31:10, 25-30


What a blessed, wonderful Mother's Day with my sweet baby girl.  We enjoyed lots of time together - we played outside, we visited Prince Farms to get fresh veggies and strawberries and we baked cookies.  And, I received the sweetest present from my girl and her amazing daddy.  They snuck away during the week to Paint Your Pot and she painted her mama some masterpieces (including a squirrel!).  Truly, the most thoughtful gift I've ever received - next to Madeline, of course.

Being a mom is the greatest privilege and I feel so honored to be Madeline's mom.  She makes my days great.

And happy, happy Mother's Day to my sweet mom.  Thank you for being such an amazing friend, teacher, listener, support and mom.  You're the best!  I love you!