Per Korean custom, Ben wore his hanbok and chose his items for the toljabee. He chose thread (long life), a pen (wisdom), and left the money (wealth). Jack did the same. Sigh. Poor and smart.
He did not want to wear it very long, either.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Laaaaaate
Everyone has posted and/or shared pics from the zoo trip except the lazy Maidys.
Epic fail.
Ben has decided he does not like bedtime.
He's protested (meaning cried, really, really loud as only Ben can cry) the past two nights.
I've been averaging about 4 hours of sleep lately.....
Going to bed between midnight and 1am and then getting up to go work out around 4:30am.
We'll be taking Ben's 1st birthday Korean style photos this weekend...about 3 weeks AFTER he turned a year old. I'm sorry, Benji-man (as Kate so endearingly calls him).
Gonna try to paint some window sills white like I'd planned on doing over 4 years ago when we moved into this place. Sigh...shaking of head...sigh.
Epic fail.
Ben has decided he does not like bedtime.
He's protested (meaning cried, really, really loud as only Ben can cry) the past two nights.
I've been averaging about 4 hours of sleep lately.....
Going to bed between midnight and 1am and then getting up to go work out around 4:30am.
We'll be taking Ben's 1st birthday Korean style photos this weekend...about 3 weeks AFTER he turned a year old. I'm sorry, Benji-man (as Kate so endearingly calls him).
Gonna try to paint some window sills white like I'd planned on doing over 4 years ago when we moved into this place. Sigh...shaking of head...sigh.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Jack Dive & Banji Walk
Was at the pool today....Ben loved being in the water and even ventured to stick his hand in the mini water geyser and 'walk' in the shallow holding onto my finger.
Jack impressed us by voluntarily attempting to go 'under' water!
Alex said he started out getting his mouth under water, then up to his nose and so forth. However, when Jack started approaching the ear level, Alex stopped him - due to all the ear issues Jack's had all his life.
Jack has an ENT appt. this Tuesday. If we get the okay from the ENT we are going to enroll Jack in swim lessons (for his enjoyment as well as for safety reasons). He already knows how to blow bubbles in the pool with his mouth which is one of the skills swim lessons provide. He's also a very strong kicker.
We are already hoping he'll be an Olympic swimmer one day. :-)
Jack impressed us by voluntarily attempting to go 'under' water!
Alex said he started out getting his mouth under water, then up to his nose and so forth. However, when Jack started approaching the ear level, Alex stopped him - due to all the ear issues Jack's had all his life.
Jack has an ENT appt. this Tuesday. If we get the okay from the ENT we are going to enroll Jack in swim lessons (for his enjoyment as well as for safety reasons). He already knows how to blow bubbles in the pool with his mouth which is one of the skills swim lessons provide. He's also a very strong kicker.
We are already hoping he'll be an Olympic swimmer one day. :-)
Monday, June 08, 2009
Brothers
For every 2-3 sweet moments like the wagon pulling described in the birthday post, there are 5-6 sour moments between the two Maidy boys. This afternoon, as I was coming out of my room after a conference call, I heard Ben whining and crying in the living room. I assumed it was b/c Sam had walked away from him to get something. What I discovered was my first glimpse at the kind of torture a big brother could and would bestow on a younger sibling, and the consequences of being born 2nd, the little brother, constantly on the receiving end of big brother's "whim" (a.k.a. abuse).
There was an empty diaper box left out in the living room. Jack decided it would be a good, no, GREAT idea, if Ben were to wear said box as a hat. Ben didn't think it was such a great idea, but there was no escape. Sam had put Ben in his walker so that she could go ahead and prepare the boys' lunches (I'm sure Ben will one day seek revenge on Sam for this tragic error in judgment).
Ben could not get away - he could not see where he was going. He could not see daylight for that matter and his initial anger of being kept in the dark soon turned into fear and then terror as he let out a shrill scream in the category of "The sky is falling, I'm going to die!"
Jack completely ignored my commands to stop pushing down on the box over Ben's head. I don't think Sam saw what was going on as either she was too enthralled with making lunch and was tuned out to Ben's complaints or assumed Ben's complaints were of the typical "I can't see you, you walked away and I need you to be right next to me at all times..." complaint.
Note to Sam: You can never assume Ben's complaints are of the typical kind when he is left alone with Jack. :-) It is almost always trouble.
The scene between my two boys was funny once I 'saved' Ben though. I wanted to laugh out loud. And I laughed, head turned to the side so that Jack could not see my face or make out the noise I was making, and laughed in that almost silent, hushed way all parents have learned to do (God forbid Jack saw me laugh as this would only have encouraged his crazy efforts to 'entertain' his little brother).
Ben latched onto me, red faced, tears streaming down his plump, square cheeks, left thumb already on its way to his mouth, and his tear logged eyes staring down at Jack as if to say, "idiot! you could have killed me if it wasn't for this lumbering,laughing in my ear woman I cling to at present!" Jack refused to apologize as instructed. Instead, he got into the box which was now sitting next to the walker and said, "look Mommy! I'm inside!" It was as if his sole purpose in this experiment was to see if he could get my attention to show me he could get inside that box in the most round-about, random way.
5-10 minutes later, once they sat down to lunch, sitting on opposite sides of the table, both seemed to have forgotten the previous event. I thought to myself, "it must be nice having the memory of a flea, or a 95 year old, or a pot head." All is forgotten in a matter of minutes.
I wish I could do the same....quite often these days...
Banji's 1st Birthday
Ben is now a year old.
I cannot believe how fast time flies. It seems just yesterday he was sleeping in our room just a few feet away from me in his crib.
Now, he shares a room with his older brother, walks, is on all table foods, drinks from sippy cups and is picking up language very quickly. Next year, during this time, he will no doubt be yelling something at his brother (and at Mommy and Daddy I'm sure), running around with him and getting into all sorts of trouble.
I know there will be at least one trip to the emergency room before the year is up and will probably average about 3 trips per year between the two boys till age 24. It scares the living day lights outta me.
The kids had fun as there was a playground near the picnic shelter. The weather was COLD! It's June already! How could it have only been in the mid 60s? That's just crazy!
Bee cake turned out - it was eaten - but I believe Alex put it best when he said, "behold the power of cake" when I expressed surprise that people actually ate the somewhat 'bee' shaped homemade cake.
Ben made out good (combo of toys and cash!). THE best gift award goes to myself and Alex however for the purchase of the Birthday Wagon. It's a really simple wagon really - two seater (front and back facing) with seat buckles and cup/drink holders on either side. It also comes with a canaopy. And if you turn down the seat backs, the flat surface then can be used as a makeshift bed for a napping child.
Functionally, it works for both kids, though it was a purchase specifically in honor of Ben's birthday. Both kids LOVES riding in it, and Jack discovered he loves pulling Ben in it. It's really cute - big brother pulling little brother down the block in a little red wagon. So cute! I just want to eat them up.
Photos will be posted shortly....stay tuned.
I cannot believe how fast time flies. It seems just yesterday he was sleeping in our room just a few feet away from me in his crib.
Now, he shares a room with his older brother, walks, is on all table foods, drinks from sippy cups and is picking up language very quickly. Next year, during this time, he will no doubt be yelling something at his brother (and at Mommy and Daddy I'm sure), running around with him and getting into all sorts of trouble.
I know there will be at least one trip to the emergency room before the year is up and will probably average about 3 trips per year between the two boys till age 24. It scares the living day lights outta me.
The kids had fun as there was a playground near the picnic shelter. The weather was COLD! It's June already! How could it have only been in the mid 60s? That's just crazy!
Bee cake turned out - it was eaten - but I believe Alex put it best when he said, "behold the power of cake" when I expressed surprise that people actually ate the somewhat 'bee' shaped homemade cake.
Ben made out good (combo of toys and cash!). THE best gift award goes to myself and Alex however for the purchase of the Birthday Wagon. It's a really simple wagon really - two seater (front and back facing) with seat buckles and cup/drink holders on either side. It also comes with a canaopy. And if you turn down the seat backs, the flat surface then can be used as a makeshift bed for a napping child.
Functionally, it works for both kids, though it was a purchase specifically in honor of Ben's birthday. Both kids LOVES riding in it, and Jack discovered he loves pulling Ben in it. It's really cute - big brother pulling little brother down the block in a little red wagon. So cute! I just want to eat them up.
Photos will be posted shortly....stay tuned.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
The Trip
Well, as we anticipated, the boys did very well on the drive. They slept through the night and quickly went to bed after gas fill-ups. My wife, the crazy one, drove through the night down to Florida and back home and only stopped once she thought she was seeing things. Isn't that everyone's cue? She drove for 9-10 hours (650 miles approx) each way. I drove the remainer, which including food stops for the kids and diaper changes ended up being 12-14 hours straight (750 miles approx).
We did learn that Florida climate changes do not agree with Jack. As soon as we crossed into The South, he developed heat rash, cold sores, and puffy eyes. Benadryl did the trick eventually, but he is still recovering from the sores and the raw nose from constant wiping. He also fell out of bed one night and has a nice bruise on his upper cheek. Sigh.
Ben, however, is in good health. He decided to reject formula and bottles outright on the way down and is now exclusively drinking whole milk from cups and eating solid meals. He is an amazing kid. He does have the worst stranger danger I have ever seen and was only warming up to my parents and my grandmother the last few days of the trip.
The weather was crazy. It rained like hurricanes and then in the same day became unbearably hot. Luckily, Florida has two locations: outside and air-conditioned.
My family were amazing the whole trip, dealing with our parental quirks, the kids quirks, and gave us a great vacation.
So much more we can share: Jack fed a giraffe AND a baby kangaroo, Ben said his first "words," we went snorkeling off Key West, I got a 2nd degree sunburn that looks like a huge blister, and more.
But, enough words! Check out some photos!
VIDEOS COMING SOON!
We did learn that Florida climate changes do not agree with Jack. As soon as we crossed into The South, he developed heat rash, cold sores, and puffy eyes. Benadryl did the trick eventually, but he is still recovering from the sores and the raw nose from constant wiping. He also fell out of bed one night and has a nice bruise on his upper cheek. Sigh.
Ben, however, is in good health. He decided to reject formula and bottles outright on the way down and is now exclusively drinking whole milk from cups and eating solid meals. He is an amazing kid. He does have the worst stranger danger I have ever seen and was only warming up to my parents and my grandmother the last few days of the trip.
The weather was crazy. It rained like hurricanes and then in the same day became unbearably hot. Luckily, Florida has two locations: outside and air-conditioned.
My family were amazing the whole trip, dealing with our parental quirks, the kids quirks, and gave us a great vacation.
So much more we can share: Jack fed a giraffe AND a baby kangaroo, Ben said his first "words," we went snorkeling off Key West, I got a 2nd degree sunburn that looks like a huge blister, and more.
But, enough words! Check out some photos!
VIDEOS COMING SOON!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Thursday, May 07, 2009
The Jack Plan
In Jack's Madagascar 2 daily planner at age 5:
1. ask for lollipop
2. demand lollipop
3. throw a fit
4. eat lollipop
5. ask for banana milk
6. ask for chocolate milk then change mind to strawberry milk
7. hit Ben
8. eat cheese
9. refuse lunch, ask for treats
10. watch Madagascar
11. go to kindergarten
12. come home and demand lollipop
13. play/fight with Ben
14. dinner - take 3 bites and demand treat (get Ben to join whining)
15. play/fight with Ben
16. put together puzzles
17. plan next day's antics
18. nigh-night time (but act real cute right before Mom and Dad close the door - maybe they'll let me stay up a bit longer)
1. ask for lollipop
2. demand lollipop
3. throw a fit
4. eat lollipop
5. ask for banana milk
6. ask for chocolate milk then change mind to strawberry milk
7. hit Ben
8. eat cheese
9. refuse lunch, ask for treats
10. watch Madagascar
11. go to kindergarten
12. come home and demand lollipop
13. play/fight with Ben
14. dinner - take 3 bites and demand treat (get Ben to join whining)
15. play/fight with Ben
16. put together puzzles
17. plan next day's antics
18. nigh-night time (but act real cute right before Mom and Dad close the door - maybe they'll let me stay up a bit longer)
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Jack the Lionheart
Jack amazes each and every day. Sometimes it is nothing more than a new silly face or a new word. But other times it is one of those monumental milestone kinds of things that make you realize this is not just your baby but also a fully functioning human being.
On the way home today I had to make a pitstop with Jack at Jewel. Taylor had requested a loaf of french bread to make homemade garlic bread. Jack was in a very good mood from daycare and was talking up a storm. It was beautiful outside so I was happy to spend a little more time with the Fudge.
No sooner than we entered the store, Jack wanted to walk. These days he does not want to be in the cart. I figured it was a quick trip, let him explore a bit. I set him down and he took a few steps. At that moment a woman dropped a bag of chips on the ground.
Now, at this point my instinct was to pull him back and tell him to stay close. But, I didn't have time. Instead I saw Jack walk up to the bag of chips, pick it up, hand it to the lady, and say "here you go." She looked shocked and I am sure I did too. She thanked him and said he was a very helpful little boy.
I don't know if Jack realized how awesome it was to see him act selflessly like that or if he was just excited I rewarded his really amazing behavior with a little toy car (and a LOT of kisses).
Either way, my little guy is a great human being and I am prouder of him every single day!
On the way home today I had to make a pitstop with Jack at Jewel. Taylor had requested a loaf of french bread to make homemade garlic bread. Jack was in a very good mood from daycare and was talking up a storm. It was beautiful outside so I was happy to spend a little more time with the Fudge.
No sooner than we entered the store, Jack wanted to walk. These days he does not want to be in the cart. I figured it was a quick trip, let him explore a bit. I set him down and he took a few steps. At that moment a woman dropped a bag of chips on the ground.
Now, at this point my instinct was to pull him back and tell him to stay close. But, I didn't have time. Instead I saw Jack walk up to the bag of chips, pick it up, hand it to the lady, and say "here you go." She looked shocked and I am sure I did too. She thanked him and said he was a very helpful little boy.
I don't know if Jack realized how awesome it was to see him act selflessly like that or if he was just excited I rewarded his really amazing behavior with a little toy car (and a LOT of kisses).
Either way, my little guy is a great human being and I am prouder of him every single day!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Fear and Loathing in Elgin
Ben and Jack now share a bedroom. I spent Saturday cleaning The Room Formerly Known as Jack's while Taylor took Jack to the park and the fish store with EJ and Jacob. The fun part, I guess, was having to disassemble the crib and then reassemble it. The first night both boys went down with almost no effort and slept the entire night. Yesterday Ben had to sleep in our bed for his nap because Jack was too riled up to sleep (both boys napped once in different rooms). But, again for the night both boys went to sleep with no problem. Things are looking good!
Also, in the course of the day yesterday, Ben has been able to stand on his own for 1 minute and more. He also has started to take baby steps. Looks like he may be walking before the end of April!
5 weeks until Florida! Still so much to do!
Also, in the course of the day yesterday, Ben has been able to stand on his own for 1 minute and more. He also has started to take baby steps. Looks like he may be walking before the end of April!
5 weeks until Florida! Still so much to do!
Monday, April 06, 2009
Sunday, April 05, 2009
April Showers
The weather should be changing soon. They are still calling for snow(!) this week. The six week countdown to our Florida trip is seeming longer and longer.
Both boys are getting over colds, so it has been a weekend in, just hanging out. Jack and Ben had Kate visit 2 days in a row!
Jack is currently obsessed with Madagascar 2. He loves that movie. He really likes the song "I Like to Move It" and dances whenever it comes on. At least it gives us a break from watching Kung Fu Panda and Wall-E over and over.
Ben is just on the brink of crawling AND standing by himself. He is very willfull. He also loves eating solid food and even is eating bigger chunks of things.
These kids better slow down or we won't be able to keep up!
Both boys are getting over colds, so it has been a weekend in, just hanging out. Jack and Ben had Kate visit 2 days in a row!
Jack is currently obsessed with Madagascar 2. He loves that movie. He really likes the song "I Like to Move It" and dances whenever it comes on. At least it gives us a break from watching Kung Fu Panda and Wall-E over and over.
Ben is just on the brink of crawling AND standing by himself. He is very willfull. He also loves eating solid food and even is eating bigger chunks of things.
These kids better slow down or we won't be able to keep up!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Walking and Talking
Ben has 2 more teeth coming in on the bottom. These have broken through and brings his grand total to EIGHT teeth. Yes, we know, he is a little monster.
Jack has a cold that has been nagging him, but he has been in good spirits the past couple of days. He had lots of fun playing with friends and cousins yesterday and then finger painting with mommy today.
It snowed quite a bit so he got a bit of cabin fever, but it is melting quickly so hopefully we can go outside next weekend and back to the park he asks for so often.
Jack has a cold that has been nagging him, but he has been in good spirits the past couple of days. He had lots of fun playing with friends and cousins yesterday and then finger painting with mommy today.
It snowed quite a bit so he got a bit of cabin fever, but it is melting quickly so hopefully we can go outside next weekend and back to the park he asks for so often.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Hello Spring!
Ben got his first taste of the park and Jack got to let loose on the jungle gym with Ellie and Kate. Lots of fun with Portillos for dinner. Ben loved, loved, LOVED being in the swing!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Wii and Denim
Ben and Jack are doing well. Jack returns to daycare this week while I go back to work. I wonder if he will have any trouble readjusting. He has grown so much in the past month, I think he will surprise all the teachers.
Ben is doing well, too. He is starting to scale more and more and looks to be standing solo any day now.
Ben is doing well, too. He is starting to scale more and more and looks to be standing solo any day now.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Ben's 9 Month Checkup
The Tale of the Tape
Length
Ben: 30 inches
Jack: 28 inches
Weight
Ben: 23 lbs 5 oz
Jack: 21 lbs 6 oz
Head Circumference
Ben: 19.75 inches
Jack: 17.75 inches
Immunizations
Ben: 4 shots
Jack: 1 shot
Ben is definitely a big boy. While he is heavier than Jack, Ben's weight is only in the 50th percentile. His length is 98th! Ben is more than likely going to be taller than his big brother. Lets just hope they don't make it into a contest.
Length
Ben: 30 inches
Jack: 28 inches
Weight
Ben: 23 lbs 5 oz
Jack: 21 lbs 6 oz
Head Circumference
Ben: 19.75 inches
Jack: 17.75 inches
Immunizations
Ben: 4 shots
Jack: 1 shot
Ben is definitely a big boy. While he is heavier than Jack, Ben's weight is only in the 50th percentile. His length is 98th! Ben is more than likely going to be taller than his big brother. Lets just hope they don't make it into a contest.
Friday, March 06, 2009
Good Day, Sunshine!
It was in the mid-sixties today, so Sam and I took the boys for a couple of walks around the neighborhood. Jack saw birds, a dog, and rocks. Lots of rocks. Ben enjoyed being out for a nice stroll too.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Friday, February 13, 2009
Cousin Fun!
Jack and Ben hung out with Emoh and cousins Ellie and Kate. It was a fun playdate of Happy Meals and PlayDoh. I wonder if Jae ate the fake sushi.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Monday, February 09, 2009
Jack & Jacob
Jack had fun playing with Jacob during the unseasonable 60 degree weather. Both kids needed to get outside....bad!
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Big Boys!
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Jack's New Do
Jack's bowl cut style has gotten out of control. We get it cut every 7-8 weeks, but it still seems to end up being wild and in his eyes. In the slideshow below, you can see in the first images that he looks like a little ragamuffin. I went and got it cut on Thursday. It was a little shorter than usual which resulted in a brutal cowlick like my hair. It didn't look bad until after his hair got washed and those stubborn hairs would not stay down. So, today we got a revised haircut. We went really short and he looks like a totally different kid! Check out the three stages of Jack's hair in the last 72 hours and see how grown up he looks now!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Sunday, January 25, 2009
The Boys These Days
Both kids have been sick and better and sick and better. It is like a neverending wheel of illness with these guys. Currently, Ben is on antibiotics for tonsilitis. Yeah, thats right, he has tonsilitis. Jack is dealing with a boil on his butt that is a lovely thing to pop and clean. But, both kids are playing like champions and are in amazing spirits. Today was a good day to just hang with the boys and make some smiles. Check out trouble in action!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Ben and Jack: Sick Puppies
There has been a wave of illness sweeping through the house lately. Ben was losing his voice and barely sleeping while Jack has a nagging cough. Taylor may have walking pneumonia but the medication isn't doing the trick. Sam and I both had sore throats, but I already am feeling fine again while her nose is congested. Hopefully everyone is better by the end of the week.
Ben is able to get from a sitting to a crawling position on his own now and is having a great time yelling and saying random "words."
Ben is able to get from a sitting to a crawling position on his own now and is having a great time yelling and saying random "words."
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Jack Talk
Jack is picking up new words and stringing new phrases and sentences everyday. There are quite a few moments throughout the day when Alex and I just look at each other and ask, "did you just hear that?" There are waaaay too many for me to remember and list but here are some samples....
No way!
no talk about! (when we are talking about him)
yeah!
thanks
you're welcome
I did it!
Delicious... it tastes!
Baby no cry...here you go (as he gives Ben a toy)
no dancing!
no talking!
no walking!
Oh maaaan!
I want more juice (milk, strawberry, or choc).
Oh, I farted...(then laughs)
Excuse me....too tight (when he's trying to get by you)
using 'Ummmmm....' before answering any question
Why?
No way!
no talk about! (when we are talking about him)
yeah!
thanks
you're welcome
I did it!
Delicious... it tastes!
Baby no cry...here you go (as he gives Ben a toy)
no dancing!
no talking!
no walking!
Oh maaaan!
I want more juice (milk, strawberry, or choc).
Oh, I farted...(then laughs)
Excuse me....too tight (when he's trying to get by you)
using 'Ummmmm....' before answering any question
Why?
The Banji Speaks
Ben has discovered he has a voice, and he is using it very well these days. It sounds like he's saying, "Daa daa daa daa daa!" All you see are his two bottom teeth jutting out from his gums as his chubby cheeks expand even further out to the sides making his usual round face into a square face. His mouth looks like he's chewing something tough when he talks. Sooooo cute.
Ben is also sitting by himself now...he gets better and better by the day. It's amazing...one day he woke up and decided he wanted to sit, roll all the way over and talk! It's almost as if he was holding back on us till he felt the time was right. Sigh.
He is also trying to hold his own bottle...when it is meal time and the bottle is brought close to him, his arms reach out in a frantic hurry to try and grab the bottle and bring it closer to his mouth. However, as soon as the nipple reaches his lips, his arms go limp as a result of having received what he was after.
Speaking of foods, he is moving onto fruits tomorrow (mixed with baby cereal). I have no doubt that in the next few weeks, he'll be eating the veggies and fruits (stage 1) on their own without cereal.
Ben is also sitting by himself now...he gets better and better by the day. It's amazing...one day he woke up and decided he wanted to sit, roll all the way over and talk! It's almost as if he was holding back on us till he felt the time was right. Sigh.
He is also trying to hold his own bottle...when it is meal time and the bottle is brought close to him, his arms reach out in a frantic hurry to try and grab the bottle and bring it closer to his mouth. However, as soon as the nipple reaches his lips, his arms go limp as a result of having received what he was after.
Speaking of foods, he is moving onto fruits tomorrow (mixed with baby cereal). I have no doubt that in the next few weeks, he'll be eating the veggies and fruits (stage 1) on their own without cereal.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!
We had a good Christmas. Jack opened his gifts by himself this year. He got an easel, a robot dog, puzzles, and some art supplies. Can you tell he enjoyed himself?
Ben also managed to open his gifts for the most part.
I also had to run to CVS to buy C and D batteries. Isn't that awesome? Going out on Christmas morning?
Ben also managed to open his gifts for the most part.
I also had to run to CVS to buy C and D batteries. Isn't that awesome? Going out on Christmas morning?
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Daddy and The Banji
We went to take family portraits today. It was an interesting experience as Ben and Jack did not want to participate. Neither smiled but both cried incessantly. We got a couple "okay" photos. Ellie and Kate took much better shots than either of the boys. But, Taylor was able to snap a couple quick ones of me and the little guy before we were told to put the camera away.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Day Care Holiday Program 2008
Jack's daycare put on its annual Holiday Program and pot luck dinner. Jack was too small last year and this year he just enjoyed the cookies before the show and then sat like a lump the rest of the performance. Sigh, hopefully next year he will be a little more self sufficient. He is way too attached to me, but better to be a Daddy's boy than a Mama's boy.
On another note, Ellie was very brave and very grown up. She joined the kids and sang Christmas songs while Santa arrived and didn't look afraid or out of her element at all. Way to go, Ellie!
On another note, Ellie was very brave and very grown up. She joined the kids and sang Christmas songs while Santa arrived and didn't look afraid or out of her element at all. Way to go, Ellie!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Maidy Boys: Hanging Out
Jack is a really loving big brother. He likes to play with Ben and keep him company. The two are thick as thieves, that is until Jack gets cranky or Ben spits up. Enjoy a nice moment between the boys.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Banji on the Table
Ben is beginning to sit like a champ. He still leans forward, but he can pretty much support himself. He is also going on 3 consecutive nights sleeping from 7:30 until 6 the next morning. Lets hope he keeps it up and can be moved into the room with Jack!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Meeting Santa 2008
Jack was scared again, but Ben was a champ! He looked at Santa so adoringly and Santa didn't want to let him go!
Cute!
Cute!
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Christmas Decorating 2008
Put up the trees and the outside lights today. We decided to do it early to actually enjoy having the decorations up. Jack was having fun putting up the ornaments and candy canes. They wouldn't last long as he now likes taking them all off.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving 2008
Full of tryptophan and wine, here are some photos from our Thanksgiving celebration this year. Despite the turkey appearing as a Demon Turkey, everything was delicious. Ben and Jack were very cute and Jack actually enjoyed some turkey and stuffing this year. Happy Turkey Day everyone!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Bowl Cuts and Overalls
Sorry we haven't posted in a while. Its been hectic at work and at home. Here are just some lounging photos from over the weekend. Grandma got Ben a cute new outfit and Jack got a terrible haircut (it looks a little better now). Just after Taylor got over a cold both kids have the sniffles. Ben is cutting his second tooth and is drooling like a maniac. But, see the photos for yourself. These ragamuffins are getting big!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Kate's 2nd Birthday
Had fun celebrating Kate's big oh two. Lots of fun as you can see from the photos.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Ben Stats - 5 Months
Height: 27 inches 90th percentile
Weight: 19.2oz 90th percentile
Head: 75th percentile
Shots: 2 (cried but stopped when I picked him up)
Suggestions: because we (everyone who cares/holds Ben) are all right handed, the right side of Ben's head is flatter than the left. It's slight but the doctor did suggest we try to hold/cradle him on our other side as much as possible to even things out.
Overall Health: Excellent! He's a big, strong, healthy 5 month old!
Comments: He tried to roll over onto his tummy when I put him on the examining table. He was about 90% there. Any day now he's gonna do it. I just hope I'm home when that happens.
Other comments: EVERY TIME I take Ben out for anything, people are always craning or peering over the stroller to see Ben and check him out. And EVERY time someone comments, it always includes his beautiful eyes and very cute smile.
We love the Banj.
Weight: 19.2oz 90th percentile
Head: 75th percentile
Shots: 2 (cried but stopped when I picked him up)
Suggestions: because we (everyone who cares/holds Ben) are all right handed, the right side of Ben's head is flatter than the left. It's slight but the doctor did suggest we try to hold/cradle him on our other side as much as possible to even things out.
Overall Health: Excellent! He's a big, strong, healthy 5 month old!
Comments: He tried to roll over onto his tummy when I put him on the examining table. He was about 90% there. Any day now he's gonna do it. I just hope I'm home when that happens.
Other comments: EVERY TIME I take Ben out for anything, people are always craning or peering over the stroller to see Ben and check him out. And EVERY time someone comments, it always includes his beautiful eyes and very cute smile.
We love the Banj.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Ben with Hair?
My dad has too much time on his hands and access to Photoshop. He moved Jack's hair onto Ben. It is eerie how much they look alike. A sign of things to come?
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Jackoween 2008
Ben was too tired to dress up, but he watched his big brother go trick or treating for the first time in our neighborhood!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Jacob's Birthday Party
Jack enjoyed playing with his cousins and his buddy Jacob at the Kohl's Children's Museum yesterday. Ben got to go too and while he couldn't play, he did enjoy the people walking by.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Dress Up
The kids like costumes. They are so funny. We are going to scar them by making them wear matching outfits, but it is worth it!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Jackson Maidy for President 2008
Dear America,
This is to inform you of Jackson Andrew Maidy's campaign for President of the United States of America. Jackson is a maverick of the playground and intends to create diaper reform, eliminate dependence on butt paste, created nation-wide health care that includes lollipops after getting a booster shot, as well as help our country fight the terrorist known as Barney. Will you join Jackson on his quest for the White House?
Drool, Baby, Drool!
Jack and Ben B&W
Here is a shot of me and Jack when he was 3 months old. Next to it is me and Ben taken today. You can clearly see the differences between the boys, but also the striking similarities.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
At Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch
It was supposed to be really cold, so Ben stayed home with Grandma. It turned out to be really nice. Jack said "orange," Kate fed the animals, Jacob wore sunglasses, Tea went into the Haunted House, and Ellie bought her own pumpkin. A very successful day.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Thursday, October 16, 2008
St Jude's Trike-A-Thon 2008
Jack's daycare raised money for the St Jude's Children's Fund. Jack raised $100! Here is a slideshow and video from the big event!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Ben Stats Month 4
Height = 26 inches 80th percentile
Weight = 18.2lbs 95th percentile (not concerned as he is a long/tall baby)
Head = 75th percentile (measurement not given)
Shots = 2 (argh...he cried and whimpered all the way out the office doors)
Suggestions = Try to stretch feedings to every 4 hours
Overall health = great! Big healthy boy
Outside while waiting for the hospital valet folks to get the van, an older gentleman walked up to the stroller declaring he just HAD to see the baby in the stroller.
Man (after having studied Ben's face for a few minutes then looking up at me): "It's a girl, isn't it?"
Me: (I smile kindly) "Nope, a boy."
Man: (smiles wide): "What's its name?"
Me: "Ben."
Man: "He's got beautiful eyes. Hello Ben."
This isn't the first time someone has either mistaken him for a girl or commented that he was a 'pretty' baby. Everyone ALWAYS comments on how big/beautiful his eyes are though.
Weight = 18.2lbs 95th percentile (not concerned as he is a long/tall baby)
Head = 75th percentile (measurement not given)
Shots = 2 (argh...he cried and whimpered all the way out the office doors)
Suggestions = Try to stretch feedings to every 4 hours
Overall health = great! Big healthy boy
Outside while waiting for the hospital valet folks to get the van, an older gentleman walked up to the stroller declaring he just HAD to see the baby in the stroller.
Man (after having studied Ben's face for a few minutes then looking up at me): "It's a girl, isn't it?"
Me: (I smile kindly) "Nope, a boy."
Man: (smiles wide): "What's its name?"
Me: "Ben."
Man: "He's got beautiful eyes. Hello Ben."
This isn't the first time someone has either mistaken him for a girl or commented that he was a 'pretty' baby. Everyone ALWAYS comments on how big/beautiful his eyes are though.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Monday, October 06, 2008
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Happy 2nd Birthday, Jackson!
Our Jackson turned 2 today and it is still unbelievable. He is such an amazing kid and we cannot wait to see what this year has in store!
Watch! He even blows out his own candle!!!
Watch! He even blows out his own candle!!!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Ben's 100th Day / Jack's 730th Day
We celebrated Ben's 100th day with a Korean lunch and naked baby photos. We then had cake for Jack's 2nd birthday and went to Kiddieland Amusement Park. The park is designed for kids under the age of 10 and had plenty of rides for all the kids to enjoy. Jack rode the Tilt-A-Whirl and was not scared. He and Jacob then rode all the little car/boat/spaceship rides and loved it. We will definitely be going back next summer!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Monday, September 01, 2008
Labor Day
Nice relaxing day...despite Taylor's second trip to the store forgetting her wallet(sigh). We flew a kite (sort of) and just lazed about.
Terrible Two
Jack has officially become a difficult child.Well, more difficult than we have experienced.
Those who know us can now say "I told you so" as Jack ceases to be the wonderful easy kid he used to be.
Tantrums have begun full force. He has been reprimanded at day care for hitting (which has stopped, so far). He yells "no." He yells back. He doesn't listen. He cries and screams when he doesn't get his way.
According to the book THE HAPPIEST TODDLER ON THE BLOCK, he still falls under the "easy" category in general. If he was "spirited" he would be very difficult to break of these habits.
Hopefully we can get him back to behaving before his anger gets the best of him.
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