Well, if you know Sweet P's favorite word: Ba-O, or "ball," then you know what the title of this post is. Softball! Yes, that's right, more softball! This week was Sweet P's papa's first team game. We got to visit a new park "West Park" in the Nations area near Sylvan Park and White Bridge/Robertson. I wish I could say we got to "explore" the park, but we really pretty much just parked and sat on (or ran around) the bleachers by the team's dugout. It was a last-minute decision to go and I was a little distracted because Sweet P only had 1 nap that day and being there meant getting to bed late. Next time we go, we'll plan to get there a little early. There was definitely a fun-looking play area.
Sweet P had plenty of fun without anything special going on. She ate dinner in her stroller, and my friend met us with her sweet rescue Pomeranian. Sweet P LOVED her and spent a lot of time barking like a dog. SO precious! And she also requested one of her other favorite words (and favorite things) OVER and OVER: bubO or "bubbles!" She signs "please" when she wants them and it's so wonderful, how can I say no?!!? Once she was freed of her stroller constraints, she happily ran around the bleachers, scaring her mama by insisting on running around on concrete rather than the nearby grass. And not just concrete, but concrete covered in rocks and gravel, where she could fall into metal bleachers at any moment. I don't know if my heart can take this toddler business! Of course she had a blast and of COURSE I was so distracted being a mama that I didn't take ANY pictures!
NEXT TIME...
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Lunch, and courtyards, and fountains, oh my!
Another week at Storytime, and we had a great time! Hit the 1130 show, after our morning nap was a bit of failure (i.e. at first she didn't go down, then when I thought I got her down, it turns out she was being quiet and playing, all while in a poopy diaper! Sneak!). We were a little late for the show but since they start late, it wasn't so bad. Since we were late, however, we didn't use the parking pass for hubby's garage, but rather we parked in the library parking lot (free for 1.5 hrs, remember?). We texted Sweet P's papa to see if he wanted to join us for lunch at the library courtyard, since we wouldn't be walking back by his building. He was up for it, and so after Storytime, we met him and set out to explore another new spot!
I had SEEN the library courtyard, but I hadn't spent any time there. It was a beautiful day. The courtyard area is smack-dab in the middle of the library building. There was not a cloud in the sky! We (okay, they) enjoyed lunch (mama FAIL, i didn't pack anything for myself!), and then we had a little play time! Sweet P loved running all around the courtyard. She'd come running us only to fake us out and go somewhere else instead of into our arms. She charmed school children there on field trips, and adults on break from work. Everyone was smitten with her, but no one more than I was!
Sweet P isn't quite sure how she feels about water yet, but we are working hard to make sure she thinks it's fun. She was drawn to the fountain, but (luckily) she couldn't reach it or touch it without assistance. Another little boy there was putting his feet in, but we decided to just do a little hand-splashing. Baby steps! She watched me splash and wanted to touch the water. I had to lay her on her belly over my legs, but once she could reach she didn't want to stop touching it - yeah! Next time we go, I hope we'll be in a sundress and sandals, and THEN we'll put our feet in!
So...next time you are out and about, keep the downtown library in mind. It's more than just books (as if books aren't amazing enough!). The courtyard was beautiful, relaxing, and fun!
I had SEEN the library courtyard, but I hadn't spent any time there. It was a beautiful day. The courtyard area is smack-dab in the middle of the library building. There was not a cloud in the sky! We (okay, they) enjoyed lunch (mama FAIL, i didn't pack anything for myself!), and then we had a little play time! Sweet P loved running all around the courtyard. She'd come running us only to fake us out and go somewhere else instead of into our arms. She charmed school children there on field trips, and adults on break from work. Everyone was smitten with her, but no one more than I was!
Sweet P isn't quite sure how she feels about water yet, but we are working hard to make sure she thinks it's fun. She was drawn to the fountain, but (luckily) she couldn't reach it or touch it without assistance. Another little boy there was putting his feet in, but we decided to just do a little hand-splashing. Baby steps! She watched me splash and wanted to touch the water. I had to lay her on her belly over my legs, but once she could reach she didn't want to stop touching it - yeah! Next time we go, I hope we'll be in a sundress and sandals, and THEN we'll put our feet in!
So...next time you are out and about, keep the downtown library in mind. It's more than just books (as if books aren't amazing enough!). The courtyard was beautiful, relaxing, and fun!
Coffee date!
Who better to go out for coffee than your sweetheart?! Sweet P has decided to reject her morning nap lately, and of course she decided to do this on a day when I have a poster proposal for a conference due that night. Since mama needed to get a bit more work done, we decided to hit up a coffee shop, and I had just the right one in mind! You guessed it - my favorite local coffee shop - Ugly Mugs on Eastland Ave.
Now, you will recall, on our day all around town, that I wrote about the fun we had meeting up with our friend for some iced chai and making a new friend at the play table. I knew if I wanted to get work done, the key would be the play table!!! Here's why: Ugly Mugs is owned by PARENTS! Yes, that's right, the young couple who owns the coffee shop has two kiddos, and they GET IT! The play table has a variety of kid-friendly items, for kids of all ages. I was able to pack snacks for Sweet P and between the play table and the people watching, she had a great time! She read books, played with blocks, "put together" puzzles, and more. And I got some work done in between watching her & picking up blocks she threw. The downside would have been if I couldn't get a seat by the play table, although I think Sweet P would have been happy if I wasn't immediately next to her. But luckily I scored a spot, sort of sharing a table with another girl. She was kind and shared, and so after she left, I returned the favor and shared with a couple of guys who needed a spot. The one guy thanked me and commented how it was like a living room! I love that about East Nashville.
Sweet P's papa got off the bus right there and joined us, I sent my draft to my professor to be reviewed, and we enjoyed the rest of the afternoon & evening together! Go team!
Now, you will recall, on our day all around town, that I wrote about the fun we had meeting up with our friend for some iced chai and making a new friend at the play table. I knew if I wanted to get work done, the key would be the play table!!! Here's why: Ugly Mugs is owned by PARENTS! Yes, that's right, the young couple who owns the coffee shop has two kiddos, and they GET IT! The play table has a variety of kid-friendly items, for kids of all ages. I was able to pack snacks for Sweet P and between the play table and the people watching, she had a great time! She read books, played with blocks, "put together" puzzles, and more. And I got some work done in between watching her & picking up blocks she threw. The downside would have been if I couldn't get a seat by the play table, although I think Sweet P would have been happy if I wasn't immediately next to her. But luckily I scored a spot, sort of sharing a table with another girl. She was kind and shared, and so after she left, I returned the favor and shared with a couple of guys who needed a spot. The one guy thanked me and commented how it was like a living room! I love that about East Nashville.
Sweet P's papa got off the bus right there and joined us, I sent my draft to my professor to be reviewed, and we enjoyed the rest of the afternoon & evening together! Go team!
I met moms!!!
Back at East Park to watch Papa practice softball. I knew Sweet P wouldn't sit still, so after saying hello to Papa, we headed over to the swings. We were enjoying ourselves when another mama and beautiful little girl came up to join us. We started talking and had a lot in common. It was so fun to talk to another mama. Her little girl was 10 months. It was amazing to look at the difference between 10 and 13 months! But it turned out that my new mama friend was meeting MORE mamas over the ultimate frisbee field, and they were all out there picnicking with their kiddos. I went with to say hello was overwhelmed (in a good way) by meeting some Eastside mamas and their kids. They had amazing, yummy food, and Sweet P enjoyed some puffs and a cutie (tangerine) that they were kind enough to share. They were all watching their hubbies play ultimate and figured it was better to do dinner together with friends than alone at home. I loved it! I was really wishing that hubby's softball team would be out there every week, because I SO need some mama friends that are also in the neighborhood. BUT, I did exchange numbers with the mama from the swings, and I even texted her when I got home (the sign of a true crush!). We will have to go up and say hi, or text for a playdate, some time soon. I can do it, right?!
Also, mama-from-the-swings encouraged me to contact my East Nashville MOMs club again. There are 3 groups since there are so many people involved, and we're not in the same area, but I would like to contact them again and see about getting involved. Add it to the to-do list!
Also, mama-from-the-swings encouraged me to contact my East Nashville MOMs club again. There are 3 groups since there are so many people involved, and we're not in the same area, but I would like to contact them again and see about getting involved. Add it to the to-do list!
Playing catch up!
Bad blogger! Bad blogger! Naughty!
That is what I am telling myself, because I am SO behind in my blogging. My computer decided to be a pain in the butt, and I am just uploading pictures from the last two weeks. Sheesh! Once I get these pictures loaded I will get some posts up and catch up!
That is what I am telling myself, because I am SO behind in my blogging. My computer decided to be a pain in the butt, and I am just uploading pictures from the last two weeks. Sheesh! Once I get these pictures loaded I will get some posts up and catch up!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Monday, March 12, 2012
We really DID go all around town!
March 6, 2012
INCOMPLETE POST -- TO BE COMPLETED SOON!
Sweet P and I truly went all around town today! To start our day off, in between our morning nursing and breakfast, we threw some clothes on and headed over to the high school near our house, which is our local polling center. It was the presidential primaries and some local general elections. I wasn’t sure if I could even bring a baby to the polling center, but after posting this on Facebook, I was assured that this was standard practice! I assumed I could, but I honestly don’t remember ever seeing kids there in the past when I’ve voted. I knew it would be a small crowd, and in fact, we were the only ones there at the time. I put Sweet P in the stroller, just because I knew I would need my hands free getting out my I.D., filling out forms and signing in, and of course, voting! Everyone was, of course, enamored by her, and she was thrilled to get a sticker saying “I Voted.” Since she wouldn’t stop playing with it, I stuck my own sticker on her for a brief photo op before we hopped back in the car!
Following our morning nap, we set off for our planned adventure of the day, that I know you have been waiting to hear about. STORY TIME at the library! If you recall, I mentioned that they offer story time at 930, 1030, and 1130. Sweet P woke up a little before 1030 and I think if I have my act together next time, we might attempt to make that show, but we had things to do and it was our first time, so we opted for the 1130 show. I had packed her sippy cup of milk, some snacks, and lunch. In my head I thought it would be nice if her milk got her through the show, then I thought we might meet her papa for lunch, but it didn’t all play out that way. Here is what happened.
Hubby gave me his work parking pass since he rode the bus in that day. His garage is 3 blocks over in one direction, and then maybe another 3 or 4 in the other direction. Not a bad walk, although I think, if my memory serves me, you can park in the library garage for free if you get your pass validated in the library. I forgot to confirm this yesterday but will look it up online on our next visit. The walk is nice and if we do meet up with Sweet P’s papa, then parking in his garage is more convenient. If the weather is bad, or we know we aren’t meeting him, it probably just makes sense to park at the library, assuming it is free like I think it is. So, we parked, we walked, and it was nice out. I felt a little rushed and I was also wearing a lightweight jacket and lugging our diaper bag, so I was a little hot by the time we got to the library. Turns out we had plenty of time and I didn’t have to rush. We saw a lot of parents and kiddos leaving the 1030 show and easily found our way upstairs to the children’s floor of the library (the 2nd floor). The library is beautiful, but more on that later! We made our way back to the children’s theater area. They ask you leave your strollers out front, so we parked, took in our gear, and got settled in a nice spot toward the front but also toward the side in case we needed to walk out. The room quickly filled with fellow moms and kids, and even one dad! They started a little late – I didn’t notice the time but at least 10 minutes late. I am not sure if that is typical or not. It’s one of the things that made me think we could have gotten to the 1030 show if we had really hustled, but who knows?!
When they finally got going, the reaction of the kids was priceless! The two people who put it on have developed these wonderful characters that it was obvious have endeared themselves to the “regular” crowd of kids and parents. The Professor welcomed everyone, and interacted with the crowd. He encouraged the kids to have a library card. Then JJ, a sheep puppet, came out and they talked and entertained folks. I nearly cried at Sweet P’s reaction to JJ popping out of the puppet theater. She gasped and pointed and was SO excited! It was truly precious. They sang a name game and the Professor read Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? with crowd interaction. It was fun to have them read a book that Sweet P knows. I was also impressed how they discussed the authors and illustrators. JJ went away after a game of peek-a-boo and Mary Mary came out to take the stage. She read a book called Stars by Mary Lyn Ray and Marla Frazee. It was so sweet and we will definitely have to check this book out if there’s not already a run on it! But then Mary Mary had the kids talk and sing about their favorite colors and we made a rainbow. Sweet P wanted to be up and moving and loved dancing to the music. The rest of the program continued with various puppets entertaining. Cedric the Dragon helped with the Stars book, then Spanish Fox came out and taught “star” in Spanish. There was a puppet called Yip, and I don’t even know who else! It all wrapped up with the Professor and Mary Mary leading everyone in singing “What a Wonderful World,” another song Sweet P knows well, and they even included a little bit of sign language in the song. So fun!
The crowd had a wide age range. Sweet P was one of the younger audience members, but certainly not the youngest. I was a little stressed at the idea of having to keep her sitting and interested the whole time. The library states no food or drink, and there wasn’t any signage at the children’s theater about it. It was her lunch time, so I finally got her out her milk, but that wasn’t enough! She started to get ancy, and I
INCOMPLETE POST -- TO BE COMPLETED SOON!
Sweet P and I truly went all around town today! To start our day off, in between our morning nursing and breakfast, we threw some clothes on and headed over to the high school near our house, which is our local polling center. It was the presidential primaries and some local general elections. I wasn’t sure if I could even bring a baby to the polling center, but after posting this on Facebook, I was assured that this was standard practice! I assumed I could, but I honestly don’t remember ever seeing kids there in the past when I’ve voted. I knew it would be a small crowd, and in fact, we were the only ones there at the time. I put Sweet P in the stroller, just because I knew I would need my hands free getting out my I.D., filling out forms and signing in, and of course, voting! Everyone was, of course, enamored by her, and she was thrilled to get a sticker saying “I Voted.” Since she wouldn’t stop playing with it, I stuck my own sticker on her for a brief photo op before we hopped back in the car!
Following our morning nap, we set off for our planned adventure of the day, that I know you have been waiting to hear about. STORY TIME at the library! If you recall, I mentioned that they offer story time at 930, 1030, and 1130. Sweet P woke up a little before 1030 and I think if I have my act together next time, we might attempt to make that show, but we had things to do and it was our first time, so we opted for the 1130 show. I had packed her sippy cup of milk, some snacks, and lunch. In my head I thought it would be nice if her milk got her through the show, then I thought we might meet her papa for lunch, but it didn’t all play out that way. Here is what happened.
Hubby gave me his work parking pass since he rode the bus in that day. His garage is 3 blocks over in one direction, and then maybe another 3 or 4 in the other direction. Not a bad walk, although I think, if my memory serves me, you can park in the library garage for free if you get your pass validated in the library. I forgot to confirm this yesterday but will look it up online on our next visit. The walk is nice and if we do meet up with Sweet P’s papa, then parking in his garage is more convenient. If the weather is bad, or we know we aren’t meeting him, it probably just makes sense to park at the library, assuming it is free like I think it is. So, we parked, we walked, and it was nice out. I felt a little rushed and I was also wearing a lightweight jacket and lugging our diaper bag, so I was a little hot by the time we got to the library. Turns out we had plenty of time and I didn’t have to rush. We saw a lot of parents and kiddos leaving the 1030 show and easily found our way upstairs to the children’s floor of the library (the 2nd floor). The library is beautiful, but more on that later! We made our way back to the children’s theater area. They ask you leave your strollers out front, so we parked, took in our gear, and got settled in a nice spot toward the front but also toward the side in case we needed to walk out. The room quickly filled with fellow moms and kids, and even one dad! They started a little late – I didn’t notice the time but at least 10 minutes late. I am not sure if that is typical or not. It’s one of the things that made me think we could have gotten to the 1030 show if we had really hustled, but who knows?!
When they finally got going, the reaction of the kids was priceless! The two people who put it on have developed these wonderful characters that it was obvious have endeared themselves to the “regular” crowd of kids and parents. The Professor welcomed everyone, and interacted with the crowd. He encouraged the kids to have a library card. Then JJ, a sheep puppet, came out and they talked and entertained folks. I nearly cried at Sweet P’s reaction to JJ popping out of the puppet theater. She gasped and pointed and was SO excited! It was truly precious. They sang a name game and the Professor read Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? with crowd interaction. It was fun to have them read a book that Sweet P knows. I was also impressed how they discussed the authors and illustrators. JJ went away after a game of peek-a-boo and Mary Mary came out to take the stage. She read a book called Stars by Mary Lyn Ray and Marla Frazee. It was so sweet and we will definitely have to check this book out if there’s not already a run on it! But then Mary Mary had the kids talk and sing about their favorite colors and we made a rainbow. Sweet P wanted to be up and moving and loved dancing to the music. The rest of the program continued with various puppets entertaining. Cedric the Dragon helped with the Stars book, then Spanish Fox came out and taught “star” in Spanish. There was a puppet called Yip, and I don’t even know who else! It all wrapped up with the Professor and Mary Mary leading everyone in singing “What a Wonderful World,” another song Sweet P knows well, and they even included a little bit of sign language in the song. So fun!
The crowd had a wide age range. Sweet P was one of the younger audience members, but certainly not the youngest. I was a little stressed at the idea of having to keep her sitting and interested the whole time. The library states no food or drink, and there wasn’t any signage at the children’s theater about it. It was her lunch time, so I finally got her out her milk, but that wasn’t enough! She started to get ancy, and I
Addendum - 5 Points: Fairytales
March 6, 2012
I was driving past the original site of the children’s bookstore, Fairytales, today, when I realized that I forgot to mention our visit to their new location on our popsicle adventure afternoon in 5 Points. Since we were camped out in the grass right across the street from there, I begged hubby to just run in and check out the new space with me before we headed home. It was pretty much dinner-time for Sweet P., so we didn’t take long, but it’s a small space, so we didn’t need long, either!
The story is fun and whimsical, and according to a woman who I assume is the owner, more whimsy is still yet to come! She said she was working on the painting and décor from the ceiling and more, so I am looking forward to seeing it in its completion. As was true in the other location, they still have a GREAT selection of children’s books, as well as a really fun assortment of toys, that include a lot of neat educational toys. You can tell how they select their products to really inspire children’s creativity. I saw a very cool “my first” tool kit and sports set that I think Sweet P would love! I think they might have been Melissa & Doug but I’m not sure now. It was funny because after I saw those, I saw their “girly” counter-part, which was a purse set, but I so liked the sports bag and tool kit more! I like their toy and gift selection at the store because while it’s not the cheapest, they are quality toys and books that aren’t over-priced.
If you aren’t familiar with the new location, it’s in the same house that Pied Piper Creamery is in, on the right half, where they used to sell baby items and gifts. I don’t think the space and arrangement is quite as nice as the original store, which was more a big, open room, but, there is no doubt that this location will bring in more foot traffic and be better for business, and in working within the constraints of the architecture of the house, I think they have done a GREAT job of setting the store up in a way that both makes sense to shoppers and beautifully displays their products.
They do have a small play area for kids. There were a few older kiddos there, so we didn’t let Sweet P explore it too much. Another visit! It looked pretty fun : ) One drawback of the play area is that it is in the very back of the store, kind of in a hallway, so I wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving my very little one to play there if I was shopping in the front part of the store and she was out of my vision. But with her papa and me both there, I think she would have a lot of fun! And when she is a little older, then without a doubt she could play independently while we browsed.
We picked up a flier for story time on our way out. Yes – more story times!!! They do storytime at 10 am on Saturday mornings and make public which books they are doing, so you can decide if it’s appropriate or of interest to your little one. According to the flier, there is also craft time following story time, so that is super fun! I will have to check it out. Right now I don’t think 10 am works with Sweet P’s schedule, but when she switches to one nap, it will. I am guessing craft time will be geared toward kiddos older than her, but with help from mama, you never know!
Check out their website for more info and even deals! I was impressed with their mission statement on their website – this is the kind of store we want to support in our area and I encourage you to stop in and bring your children! http://www.fairytalesbookstore.com/
I was driving past the original site of the children’s bookstore, Fairytales, today, when I realized that I forgot to mention our visit to their new location on our popsicle adventure afternoon in 5 Points. Since we were camped out in the grass right across the street from there, I begged hubby to just run in and check out the new space with me before we headed home. It was pretty much dinner-time for Sweet P., so we didn’t take long, but it’s a small space, so we didn’t need long, either!
The story is fun and whimsical, and according to a woman who I assume is the owner, more whimsy is still yet to come! She said she was working on the painting and décor from the ceiling and more, so I am looking forward to seeing it in its completion. As was true in the other location, they still have a GREAT selection of children’s books, as well as a really fun assortment of toys, that include a lot of neat educational toys. You can tell how they select their products to really inspire children’s creativity. I saw a very cool “my first” tool kit and sports set that I think Sweet P would love! I think they might have been Melissa & Doug but I’m not sure now. It was funny because after I saw those, I saw their “girly” counter-part, which was a purse set, but I so liked the sports bag and tool kit more! I like their toy and gift selection at the store because while it’s not the cheapest, they are quality toys and books that aren’t over-priced.
If you aren’t familiar with the new location, it’s in the same house that Pied Piper Creamery is in, on the right half, where they used to sell baby items and gifts. I don’t think the space and arrangement is quite as nice as the original store, which was more a big, open room, but, there is no doubt that this location will bring in more foot traffic and be better for business, and in working within the constraints of the architecture of the house, I think they have done a GREAT job of setting the store up in a way that both makes sense to shoppers and beautifully displays their products.
They do have a small play area for kids. There were a few older kiddos there, so we didn’t let Sweet P explore it too much. Another visit! It looked pretty fun : ) One drawback of the play area is that it is in the very back of the store, kind of in a hallway, so I wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving my very little one to play there if I was shopping in the front part of the store and she was out of my vision. But with her papa and me both there, I think she would have a lot of fun! And when she is a little older, then without a doubt she could play independently while we browsed.
We picked up a flier for story time on our way out. Yes – more story times!!! They do storytime at 10 am on Saturday mornings and make public which books they are doing, so you can decide if it’s appropriate or of interest to your little one. According to the flier, there is also craft time following story time, so that is super fun! I will have to check it out. Right now I don’t think 10 am works with Sweet P’s schedule, but when she switches to one nap, it will. I am guessing craft time will be geared toward kiddos older than her, but with help from mama, you never know!
Check out their website for more info and even deals! I was impressed with their mission statement on their website – this is the kind of store we want to support in our area and I encourage you to stop in and bring your children! http://www.fairytalesbookstore.com/
Technical difficulties
So my computer hates me. Really. But it's most likely my fault. I have filled it with pictures, videos, and more, and although I try to keep it backed up and cleared off, I am obviously failing at that. It run SO slowly at times, and sometimes refuses to start up at all. Just when I think it's ready to be cleared off, it won't even stay on for me to save and move files. SO frustrating, and I need a much better system.
All this to say that I had a couple of adventures with Sweet P last week and I want to post about them, but after a week am just getting my computer back to a useful point.
AND, since I'm posting about it, if you have any suggestions for staying on top of the constant loading of photos/videos on to the computer, then the saving of them elsewhere, I'd love to hear it. I need tips to keep my precious technology organized!!!
Posts to come soon : )
All this to say that I had a couple of adventures with Sweet P last week and I want to post about them, but after a week am just getting my computer back to a useful point.
AND, since I'm posting about it, if you have any suggestions for staying on top of the constant loading of photos/videos on to the computer, then the saving of them elsewhere, I'd love to hear it. I need tips to keep my precious technology organized!!!
Posts to come soon : )
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Storytime!
I generally work MWF and am home with Sweet P on T/Th. I have been bummed because the story times at our closest libraries are either on M/W (most commonly) or geared toward older age groups on the days we can go. I am PSYCHED because I just realized today that the downtown library, (the main branch, which is actually pretty close to us), has Tuesday story time! And not only do they have story time on Tuesdays, but they offer it at 930, 1030, AND 1130! PERFECT for little ones whose naps schedules are constantly evolving.
I am not sure of all the details...like what ages the stories are focused on, or if that information is available prior to the readings. The library website says that the readings occur in the Children's Theater, so I LOVE that it will have an element of drama to it! I want to get Sweet P loving the library as she loves reading, and I also think it will be a great place for her to continue to learn proper behavior in public. She does really well shopping, walking, exploring, etc., and when we go to our local library branch to read and explore, she is well-behaved, but sitting and listening to story time is a bit of a different skill. It will be great to start this with her so by the time she is school-age, she will have the attention span and manners to know how to behave and get the most from a learning situation. Yes, I am an educator - I am a nerd - but her teachers will thank me!
I think we will try this out next Tuesday, so I will keep you posted on how it goes!
I am not sure of all the details...like what ages the stories are focused on, or if that information is available prior to the readings. The library website says that the readings occur in the Children's Theater, so I LOVE that it will have an element of drama to it! I want to get Sweet P loving the library as she loves reading, and I also think it will be a great place for her to continue to learn proper behavior in public. She does really well shopping, walking, exploring, etc., and when we go to our local library branch to read and explore, she is well-behaved, but sitting and listening to story time is a bit of a different skill. It will be great to start this with her so by the time she is school-age, she will have the attention span and manners to know how to behave and get the most from a learning situation. Yes, I am an educator - I am a nerd - but her teachers will thank me!
I think we will try this out next Tuesday, so I will keep you posted on how it goes!
Our first trip to the zoo
February 25, 2012
One caveat to this post, before we get going. We did spend some money for this one, but hang in here with me for a moment, and I think I can convince you of this worthy investment! Kiddos under 2 are free at the Nashville zoo, so Sweet P is covered for the next year! Hubby and I decided to get the “Dual” membership for us, so we can take Sweet P an unlimited number of times, as well as have sweet deals (like free entry!) to other zoos when we travel. Cost of admission at the zoo is pretty crazy - $14 for an adult. And although I have never seem them charge for parking (and didn’t see anyone taking money on this recent visit), supposedly they charge $5 for parking. Making the cost of one visit for the three us a grand total of $33. Assuming we want to go at least twice in a year, that’s $66. We paid $55 for the yearly membership. So, go twice, and it’s already worth it! Not to mention admission into special members-only events, and like I said, free admission into reciprocal zoos, which appeal to us when thinking about visiting my parents in KY, my best friend in OH, Hubby’s dad in AL, and our upcoming turn-my-work-conference-into-a-family-vacation in Madison, WI. Totally awesome deal! (Funny note, now that we got our membership, we got an email about $20 off a membership for us to share with others as an attempt to recruit more members. Man! We could have gotten this for $35?!!? Oh, well! We have shared the deal with lots of people and apparently we can earn points if they actually buy memberships. I think all will earn is a backpack, but maybe Sweet P will like it?!!?). So, all that being said, we are THRILLED that we made this investment. Especially because we don’t have the money for lots of other things, but this will be WONDERFUL sights and sounds for Sweet P, great people watching, exercise and fresh air, and more! And since we have the membership, we can go whenever we want, like on days I am home with her (that might be less crowded), or hubby can take her on days I have other plans, and it’s a great activity for them to do together. And we can stay as long or as short a visit as we want without worry that we aren’t getting our money’s worth! Yes!
So, about our actual trip to the zoo. We had been wanting to take our first trip for a while. And with the freakish warm temperatures, it was on our mind. We had lots of free time last weekend, and decided Saturday was the day. Of course when Saturday arrived, it was actually only in the high 40s and it was windy! We were worried it would be a little too cold, but it was sunny, and so we bundled Sweet P up, packed her some lunch, and headed out. We figured we were buying the membership, so if it was too cold, we’d stay a little while then come back soon another day!
It ended up being just beautiful! A lot of people were out because of the sunshine, but not huge amounts because of the cold – it was just right! Hubby was probably just as excited as Sweet P to see all the animals. He didn’t grow up getting to go to the zoo, like I did in Louisville and on travels to see family in Chicago, New York, Saint Louis, Cincinnati, etc.. I forget how special something like this is! Another wonderful reason we are thrilled to provide this experience to our Sweet P. We skipped over the elephant/giraffe area on the way in, thinking we’d it on the way back out, but for time (we had to get home for naptime!), we ended up deciding we’ll have to start there next visit. We weren’t sure if all the animals would be out due to the cold, but it was perfect! Sweet P loved the monkeys, meerkats, fish, and especially the clouded leopard (“kitty! kitty!” or “gi!” “gi!” as she says). I just love that red panda – so cute! And I was really fascinated by the flamingos. They are funny little birds. And, I was very brave. Leaving the reptile house (okay I was brave just to go in to the reptile house – I am terrified of snakes!) there was a zoo worker with a small desert sand snake. I let hubby and Sweet P go over to them to look. Hubby touched it and I wanted to be brave for Sweet P, so I gathered up my courage and got close and I touched it too! Twice! Very proud. But my heartrate was up the entire time we near there. Yikes!
Sweet P had a great day. We got our “carseat” stroller out of our attic for the adventure, since it has a tray for food. Sweet P had never even ridden in there forward facing – she had only been in it in the carseat facing us, but it was great. It’s not as sleek as the BOB and it’s more cumbersome than the umbrella stroller, but it holds the entire big diaper bag in the bottom storage compartment, has a tray for Sweet P, and a cupholder for us! The zoo lets you bring in food and drink – how great is that – so we just stopped a couple times to load up Sweet P’s tray with lunch and her milk and we were good to go. Of course she got out of her stroller plenty to get good looks at things, and you can’t bring the stroller into the reptile house or the petting zoo area. (Oh my goodness did I forget to mention the petting zoo?!!? All of my fav animals – goats, donkeys, alpacas, and more! And Sweet P loves owls!). Anyway I had to learn to trust my fellow zoo-goers in leaving the stroller unattended, but it was pretty trustworthy crowd, it seems. Oh, but I was going to say, once Sweet P was out of the stroller, she didn’t want to be held…our big girl wanted to walk around! She held her papa’s hand (she doesn’t walk more than a few steps occasionally by herself yet) and she just went all over the place. When she is a true walker, there is going to be no stopping her!
Here are a few pics from our day:
One caveat to this post, before we get going. We did spend some money for this one, but hang in here with me for a moment, and I think I can convince you of this worthy investment! Kiddos under 2 are free at the Nashville zoo, so Sweet P is covered for the next year! Hubby and I decided to get the “Dual” membership for us, so we can take Sweet P an unlimited number of times, as well as have sweet deals (like free entry!) to other zoos when we travel. Cost of admission at the zoo is pretty crazy - $14 for an adult. And although I have never seem them charge for parking (and didn’t see anyone taking money on this recent visit), supposedly they charge $5 for parking. Making the cost of one visit for the three us a grand total of $33. Assuming we want to go at least twice in a year, that’s $66. We paid $55 for the yearly membership. So, go twice, and it’s already worth it! Not to mention admission into special members-only events, and like I said, free admission into reciprocal zoos, which appeal to us when thinking about visiting my parents in KY, my best friend in OH, Hubby’s dad in AL, and our upcoming turn-my-work-conference-into-a-family-vacation in Madison, WI. Totally awesome deal! (Funny note, now that we got our membership, we got an email about $20 off a membership for us to share with others as an attempt to recruit more members. Man! We could have gotten this for $35?!!? Oh, well! We have shared the deal with lots of people and apparently we can earn points if they actually buy memberships. I think all will earn is a backpack, but maybe Sweet P will like it?!!?). So, all that being said, we are THRILLED that we made this investment. Especially because we don’t have the money for lots of other things, but this will be WONDERFUL sights and sounds for Sweet P, great people watching, exercise and fresh air, and more! And since we have the membership, we can go whenever we want, like on days I am home with her (that might be less crowded), or hubby can take her on days I have other plans, and it’s a great activity for them to do together. And we can stay as long or as short a visit as we want without worry that we aren’t getting our money’s worth! Yes!
So, about our actual trip to the zoo. We had been wanting to take our first trip for a while. And with the freakish warm temperatures, it was on our mind. We had lots of free time last weekend, and decided Saturday was the day. Of course when Saturday arrived, it was actually only in the high 40s and it was windy! We were worried it would be a little too cold, but it was sunny, and so we bundled Sweet P up, packed her some lunch, and headed out. We figured we were buying the membership, so if it was too cold, we’d stay a little while then come back soon another day!
It ended up being just beautiful! A lot of people were out because of the sunshine, but not huge amounts because of the cold – it was just right! Hubby was probably just as excited as Sweet P to see all the animals. He didn’t grow up getting to go to the zoo, like I did in Louisville and on travels to see family in Chicago, New York, Saint Louis, Cincinnati, etc.. I forget how special something like this is! Another wonderful reason we are thrilled to provide this experience to our Sweet P. We skipped over the elephant/giraffe area on the way in, thinking we’d it on the way back out, but for time (we had to get home for naptime!), we ended up deciding we’ll have to start there next visit. We weren’t sure if all the animals would be out due to the cold, but it was perfect! Sweet P loved the monkeys, meerkats, fish, and especially the clouded leopard (“kitty! kitty!” or “gi!” “gi!” as she says). I just love that red panda – so cute! And I was really fascinated by the flamingos. They are funny little birds. And, I was very brave. Leaving the reptile house (okay I was brave just to go in to the reptile house – I am terrified of snakes!) there was a zoo worker with a small desert sand snake. I let hubby and Sweet P go over to them to look. Hubby touched it and I wanted to be brave for Sweet P, so I gathered up my courage and got close and I touched it too! Twice! Very proud. But my heartrate was up the entire time we near there. Yikes!
Sweet P had a great day. We got our “carseat” stroller out of our attic for the adventure, since it has a tray for food. Sweet P had never even ridden in there forward facing – she had only been in it in the carseat facing us, but it was great. It’s not as sleek as the BOB and it’s more cumbersome than the umbrella stroller, but it holds the entire big diaper bag in the bottom storage compartment, has a tray for Sweet P, and a cupholder for us! The zoo lets you bring in food and drink – how great is that – so we just stopped a couple times to load up Sweet P’s tray with lunch and her milk and we were good to go. Of course she got out of her stroller plenty to get good looks at things, and you can’t bring the stroller into the reptile house or the petting zoo area. (Oh my goodness did I forget to mention the petting zoo?!!? All of my fav animals – goats, donkeys, alpacas, and more! And Sweet P loves owls!). Anyway I had to learn to trust my fellow zoo-goers in leaving the stroller unattended, but it was pretty trustworthy crowd, it seems. Oh, but I was going to say, once Sweet P was out of the stroller, she didn’t want to be held…our big girl wanted to walk around! She held her papa’s hand (she doesn’t walk more than a few steps occasionally by herself yet) and she just went all over the place. When she is a true walker, there is going to be no stopping her!
Here are a few pics from our day:
Swingers!
February 28, 2012
Today was a sick day at home with mama, and we needed to get out of the house! Another one of our standard “meet up” spots, much like stopping at the duck-lake on the way home, is the dog park and playground at Shelby Bottoms. Either after daycare/work, or even on days when Hubby is coming from work and we are at home, the 5 minute drive to the dog park is always worth it! Sweet P LOVES to see the dogs. We bark and talk about them while we look at them. And she really seems to love swinging. She has the best time, and is amused when her parents swing too! She likes to watch other children on the playground – she is especially curious about them. This day she, of course, took a ride down the slide with her papa, but we also brought her soccer ball. She was gifted a baby soccer ball for Hubby’s birthday the year I was pregnant – big soccer ball for papa, baby soccer ball for baby! We have mostly played with it in the house, so it seemed like time to take it outside! She is now obsessed! “Ball, ball, ball!” Over and over and over again! But it’s so great! She loves to throw it over and over. She throws overhand like a little goalie, and she doesn’t mess around. Although we really want to get a baby swing for our swingset at home, nothing can replace the fun of a trip to the playground!
Here is a pic of Sweet P enjoying the swing, and some playing with the ball in the grass (which is sort of a huge feat since she used to hate to touch grass!):
Today was a sick day at home with mama, and we needed to get out of the house! Another one of our standard “meet up” spots, much like stopping at the duck-lake on the way home, is the dog park and playground at Shelby Bottoms. Either after daycare/work, or even on days when Hubby is coming from work and we are at home, the 5 minute drive to the dog park is always worth it! Sweet P LOVES to see the dogs. We bark and talk about them while we look at them. And she really seems to love swinging. She has the best time, and is amused when her parents swing too! She likes to watch other children on the playground – she is especially curious about them. This day she, of course, took a ride down the slide with her papa, but we also brought her soccer ball. She was gifted a baby soccer ball for Hubby’s birthday the year I was pregnant – big soccer ball for papa, baby soccer ball for baby! We have mostly played with it in the house, so it seemed like time to take it outside! She is now obsessed! “Ball, ball, ball!” Over and over and over again! But it’s so great! She loves to throw it over and over. She throws overhand like a little goalie, and she doesn’t mess around. Although we really want to get a baby swing for our swingset at home, nothing can replace the fun of a trip to the playground!
Here is a pic of Sweet P enjoying the swing, and some playing with the ball in the grass (which is sort of a huge feat since she used to hate to touch grass!):
5 Points, twice in one day!
February 23, 2012
Last Thursday was an unseasonably warm day, and since we were home together, I thought Sweet P and I would get out and about beyond the (wonderful) greenway off our street. I had some errands to run and thought it might be fun to explore “5 Points,” a nearby arts and shopping area with lots of independent shops and restaurants. 5 Points is about a ten minute drive from our house. We parked the car, got Sweet P settled into the “umbroller” aka “umbrella stroller” and off we went! First we had a package to deliver to the post office. It’s a lot of fun to have little ones help with the routine things in life like that. (And if they see you writing, even better!).
Sweet P helped me to deliver the package to the blue box, then we started to head toward the library, where we had a CD on reserve. But first, we ran in to a friend! Since everyone was out enjoying the beautiful weather, it wasn’t too surprising. “Butters” was out for a bike-ride with his boston terrier, Margot, in tow…like seriously, in tow! She was in one of those bike/stroller attachment things for kids that people pull behind their bikes. It was pretty ridiculous – AND AWESOME! Sweet P was thrilled to see her, and Margot returned the affection!
After that excitement, we hit the library. One downside of strolling with the stroller is that the main entrance to our library has quite a few stairs, so I had to carry Sweet P in the stroller inside. Not terrible on the way in, but a little more scary on the way out! She and I checked out the small but completely adequate kids’ section. We love to read a few books we don’t have at home whenever we can! Her attention span is still a little short for the required quiet of the library, so after a few books, we got our reserved CD and moved on.
I wanted to stop at this cute little local, green shop called the Green Wagon before coming home. I have been in there a few times, but not from the perspective of a mom. It is a neat store with the ability to create homemade, organic cleaning products (which completely appeals to me), and has a wide variety of organic and local items that seem especially perfect for gifts. They also had some very reasonably priced kids’ clothes (for an independent store like that), plus some pretty sweet vintage gear for grown-ups outside on the porch! I wish we weren’t so poor…there were a few things I had my eye on! But, the “window shopping” was great, and we headed home for naptime. On the way back to the car, I couldn’t help but notice people enjoying their Las Paletas popsicles outside of Bongo Java. What a treat on such a splendid day! We continued home, anyway.
Hubby had to take a licensing test at work that day and they let him go early! We ended up back at the house at the same time, got Sweet P down for her nap, and enjoyed some quiet time together. Once Sweet P was up, I told him she said “popsicle!” Okay, she can’t say “popsicle”, nor does she know what a popsicle is, and he didn’t really fall for it. BUT, he did get that I wanted a popsicle, and I thought it would be fun for Sweet P to try her first lick of a sweet treat! We had been debating a walk on the greenway or a trip to the park to swing, but we ended up back in 5 points!
Las Paletas has a free-standing store in 12th South, but they sell some of their popsicles around town, including to Bongo Java, a local coffee shop (now a small local chain). They have the most delicious flavors with interesting twists – if you have never had a Mexican popsicle I highly recommend them! Of course I was hesitant to get one of the delicious flavors with chili to share with Sweet P., so it was between a frozen fruit posicle with strawberry and blueberry combined, or a creamy avocado popsicle. You might think I’m crazy, but I went avocado, and I stand by that decision! It was SO yummy! (Not that I got to eat very much of it). I though we’d share it, but Sweet P went to town on that sucker! Hubby tried to get a video of her first popsicle experience but the iPod failed us (okay it was probably my fault…I need to delete some videos). I was REALLY sad when there was only a second of video on it, but we did get some sweet pictures! We ended up enjoying it on a blanket in the greenspace next to I Dream of Weenie, and two friends that were out at Beyond the Edge came over for a visit. It was so great to see so many people we knew out and about! After the popsicle, Sweet P practiced walking around the greenspace and just had a great day!
Oh, and FYI, I think our popsicle ran us about $2. Not too bad! Here is a pic of Sweet P enjoying her avocado popsicle and practicing walking with her papa and mama!
Last Thursday was an unseasonably warm day, and since we were home together, I thought Sweet P and I would get out and about beyond the (wonderful) greenway off our street. I had some errands to run and thought it might be fun to explore “5 Points,” a nearby arts and shopping area with lots of independent shops and restaurants. 5 Points is about a ten minute drive from our house. We parked the car, got Sweet P settled into the “umbroller” aka “umbrella stroller” and off we went! First we had a package to deliver to the post office. It’s a lot of fun to have little ones help with the routine things in life like that. (And if they see you writing, even better!).
Sweet P helped me to deliver the package to the blue box, then we started to head toward the library, where we had a CD on reserve. But first, we ran in to a friend! Since everyone was out enjoying the beautiful weather, it wasn’t too surprising. “Butters” was out for a bike-ride with his boston terrier, Margot, in tow…like seriously, in tow! She was in one of those bike/stroller attachment things for kids that people pull behind their bikes. It was pretty ridiculous – AND AWESOME! Sweet P was thrilled to see her, and Margot returned the affection!
After that excitement, we hit the library. One downside of strolling with the stroller is that the main entrance to our library has quite a few stairs, so I had to carry Sweet P in the stroller inside. Not terrible on the way in, but a little more scary on the way out! She and I checked out the small but completely adequate kids’ section. We love to read a few books we don’t have at home whenever we can! Her attention span is still a little short for the required quiet of the library, so after a few books, we got our reserved CD and moved on.
I wanted to stop at this cute little local, green shop called the Green Wagon before coming home. I have been in there a few times, but not from the perspective of a mom. It is a neat store with the ability to create homemade, organic cleaning products (which completely appeals to me), and has a wide variety of organic and local items that seem especially perfect for gifts. They also had some very reasonably priced kids’ clothes (for an independent store like that), plus some pretty sweet vintage gear for grown-ups outside on the porch! I wish we weren’t so poor…there were a few things I had my eye on! But, the “window shopping” was great, and we headed home for naptime. On the way back to the car, I couldn’t help but notice people enjoying their Las Paletas popsicles outside of Bongo Java. What a treat on such a splendid day! We continued home, anyway.
Hubby had to take a licensing test at work that day and they let him go early! We ended up back at the house at the same time, got Sweet P down for her nap, and enjoyed some quiet time together. Once Sweet P was up, I told him she said “popsicle!” Okay, she can’t say “popsicle”, nor does she know what a popsicle is, and he didn’t really fall for it. BUT, he did get that I wanted a popsicle, and I thought it would be fun for Sweet P to try her first lick of a sweet treat! We had been debating a walk on the greenway or a trip to the park to swing, but we ended up back in 5 points!
Las Paletas has a free-standing store in 12th South, but they sell some of their popsicles around town, including to Bongo Java, a local coffee shop (now a small local chain). They have the most delicious flavors with interesting twists – if you have never had a Mexican popsicle I highly recommend them! Of course I was hesitant to get one of the delicious flavors with chili to share with Sweet P., so it was between a frozen fruit posicle with strawberry and blueberry combined, or a creamy avocado popsicle. You might think I’m crazy, but I went avocado, and I stand by that decision! It was SO yummy! (Not that I got to eat very much of it). I though we’d share it, but Sweet P went to town on that sucker! Hubby tried to get a video of her first popsicle experience but the iPod failed us (okay it was probably my fault…I need to delete some videos). I was REALLY sad when there was only a second of video on it, but we did get some sweet pictures! We ended up enjoying it on a blanket in the greenspace next to I Dream of Weenie, and two friends that were out at Beyond the Edge came over for a visit. It was so great to see so many people we knew out and about! After the popsicle, Sweet P practiced walking around the greenspace and just had a great day!
Oh, and FYI, I think our popsicle ran us about $2. Not too bad! Here is a pic of Sweet P enjoying her avocado popsicle and practicing walking with her papa and mama!
"The one little duck with the feather on his back..."
February 20, 2012
Go on…do you know the rest of the song?!!? “…he led the others with his quack, quack, quack!” And there is even more quacking beyond that! Clearly I listen to too much of the Pandora Toddler station, but I will confess, I love it! I love to make learning connections for Sweet P, between music, books, toys, and LIFE! We are fortunate to live fairly close to the Shelby Bottoms greenway and park. Sometimes on our way home from work/daycare, if the weather permits, we stop for a stroll around the little lake that is home to a variety of ducks and geese. In the car on the way there, I talk about ducks, sing songs, and to plenty of quacking (of course). All of this elicits slightly-amused smiles from Sweet P that I can see in our little carseat mirror (she is rear-facing, so I can look in my rear-view mirror and see the carseat mirror and see her!). THEN we get to the park and see the ducks. This is the most exciting part! We don’t even feed them, 1. because there is ALWAYS someone else there feeding them, and 2. because Sweet P’s mama (yes, me!) is a *little* hesitant around birds. It’s true. They freak me out a little. I like to watch them (and LOVE for Sweet P to see them), but I don’t need to get too close, and without bread, I feel like they will leave us alone.
If we have enough time, we take a stroller walk around the lake and continue to sing and talk about the ducks, paying attention to the sounds they make and stopping to look at them again when they are close. When we get home, we play with our stuffed duck, and read books with ducks in it. All of this makes for such great learning! And we got some exercise and fresh air too!
Some pics from our visit to the lake:
Go on…do you know the rest of the song?!!? “…he led the others with his quack, quack, quack!” And there is even more quacking beyond that! Clearly I listen to too much of the Pandora Toddler station, but I will confess, I love it! I love to make learning connections for Sweet P, between music, books, toys, and LIFE! We are fortunate to live fairly close to the Shelby Bottoms greenway and park. Sometimes on our way home from work/daycare, if the weather permits, we stop for a stroll around the little lake that is home to a variety of ducks and geese. In the car on the way there, I talk about ducks, sing songs, and to plenty of quacking (of course). All of this elicits slightly-amused smiles from Sweet P that I can see in our little carseat mirror (she is rear-facing, so I can look in my rear-view mirror and see the carseat mirror and see her!). THEN we get to the park and see the ducks. This is the most exciting part! We don’t even feed them, 1. because there is ALWAYS someone else there feeding them, and 2. because Sweet P’s mama (yes, me!) is a *little* hesitant around birds. It’s true. They freak me out a little. I like to watch them (and LOVE for Sweet P to see them), but I don’t need to get too close, and without bread, I feel like they will leave us alone.
If we have enough time, we take a stroller walk around the lake and continue to sing and talk about the ducks, paying attention to the sounds they make and stopping to look at them again when they are close. When we get home, we play with our stuffed duck, and read books with ducks in it. All of this makes for such great learning! And we got some exercise and fresh air too!
Some pics from our visit to the lake:
Already behind before I even started!
My true post for today is yet to come…the post that really inspired this blog. Now you’re intrigued, right?!!? Well, hold on to your hats – it’s gonna be about storytime! Yes, it’s true, looking for storytime at our local library is what got my wheels turning to document my adventures around town with Sweet P.
So why am I not blogging about that yet? And why do I say I am already behind before I even started?! Great questions! This might be a novice blogger problem, but I don’t know how to post something that isn’t chronological, and we had a couple fun Nashville adventures lately that I think deserve their own posts. Since I am anal about strange things, the orde/date of events in my posts being one of them, I have typed these posts in word documents so that I can “cheat” and put up some items from last week prior to posting my “real” post of the day. Then I will feel “all caught up” and we can move forward with posts in the order of their occurrence and we can all just pretend I never showed this quirky (scary?) OCD side of myself. Right?
So why am I not blogging about that yet? And why do I say I am already behind before I even started?! Great questions! This might be a novice blogger problem, but I don’t know how to post something that isn’t chronological, and we had a couple fun Nashville adventures lately that I think deserve their own posts. Since I am anal about strange things, the orde/date of events in my posts being one of them, I have typed these posts in word documents so that I can “cheat” and put up some items from last week prior to posting my “real” post of the day. Then I will feel “all caught up” and we can move forward with posts in the order of their occurrence and we can all just pretend I never showed this quirky (scary?) OCD side of myself. Right?
Inspiration.
I have decided to blog about my adventures around town with my little girl, affectionately dubbed “Sweet P.” Feel free to ask for more details on her nickname if you are not already privy to that information!
Anyway, Sweet P turned 1 two weeks ago. She still takes two naps a day on days she is home with me (she usually goes to daycare MWF), but her “awake time” is really starting to expand (I suspect we’ll be down to 1 nap soon), and we are only nursing mornings and evenings, so we have so much more free time than before! We are having a burst of warm spring-like winter weather, and I have found myself with the desire to get her out and about more often, both to explore and expand her horizons, to enjoy beautiful weather and get some exercise, to take advantage of all our wonderful city of Nashville has to offer, and to give me (us) a break of it being just the two of us in the house! Sweet P is a very happy, typically non-fussy, baby, but if she ever gets in a funk where she is whining, it seems to clear up if we leave the house. She is very observant and let’s face it, she’s 12 months old, so just about everything is new to her! She loves to take in new people, places, and things, and I love exposing her to her world.
I have one other real experience with blogging. During my pregnancy I wrote weekly letters to Sweet P, (then called “Baby P”), and I published them on a blog that only our family and friends had access to. Although the letters I wanted Sweet P to ultimately have as a record of my pregnancy with her (and love for her!), I also used this as a tool to share updates on my pregnancy, the baby’s growth, and our preparations for the baby along the way. It seemed unnecessary (and maybe a little invasive) to have it anything but private. In thinking about documenting our adventures all around town, I have other parents in mind. I *might* actually make this blog public! I think it would be fun to share not only our adventures, but to encourage other parents to get out and explore opportunities in their cities with their kiddos. Plus, it might keep us more motivated to continue to look for new things to do!
Now…you might be thinking, “but I don’t have the funds to be trying out all sorts of things with my little one, especially when they can only be out and about for small increments at a time”. Me either!!! We pinch pennies in this house, and the things I do (and hope to do) with Sweet P are either free or very low cost. I come at this with a few things in mind. First, I am a mom who wants to enjoy time her daughter! On a personal level, I love to see her light up at new sights and sounds. One year is SUCH an amazing time for learning. Getting out beyond what she sees daily at home is a wonderful asset to her learning. But secondly, I am an educator and a speech-language pathologist. I work in the area of language development. My personal love of her learning and language growth is absolutely enhanced by my knowledge of what research tells us benefits children’s early vocabulary and learning, and the long-term effects that has on language and reading development, and beyond! I want to give her everything I can to help her be a happy, bright girl! Thirdly, although I would not call myself a thrill-seeker, I would say that I am adventurous in that I like to get out and see new things. And it is amazing the fun that can be had doing commonplace, everyday things around your own town…things you overlook or take for granted because you’ve lived in one place for so long, or because you always say, “one day I’ll do that.” This is my own guilty pleasure of exploring the sights and sounds of Nashville, TN!
We welcome you to share in our adventures via this blog, and if you are in Nashvegas, I’ll be looking for you when I’m “All Around Town with Sweet P!!!”
Here is my sweet girl - one year old:
Anyway, Sweet P turned 1 two weeks ago. She still takes two naps a day on days she is home with me (she usually goes to daycare MWF), but her “awake time” is really starting to expand (I suspect we’ll be down to 1 nap soon), and we are only nursing mornings and evenings, so we have so much more free time than before! We are having a burst of warm spring-like winter weather, and I have found myself with the desire to get her out and about more often, both to explore and expand her horizons, to enjoy beautiful weather and get some exercise, to take advantage of all our wonderful city of Nashville has to offer, and to give me (us) a break of it being just the two of us in the house! Sweet P is a very happy, typically non-fussy, baby, but if she ever gets in a funk where she is whining, it seems to clear up if we leave the house. She is very observant and let’s face it, she’s 12 months old, so just about everything is new to her! She loves to take in new people, places, and things, and I love exposing her to her world.
I have one other real experience with blogging. During my pregnancy I wrote weekly letters to Sweet P, (then called “Baby P”), and I published them on a blog that only our family and friends had access to. Although the letters I wanted Sweet P to ultimately have as a record of my pregnancy with her (and love for her!), I also used this as a tool to share updates on my pregnancy, the baby’s growth, and our preparations for the baby along the way. It seemed unnecessary (and maybe a little invasive) to have it anything but private. In thinking about documenting our adventures all around town, I have other parents in mind. I *might* actually make this blog public! I think it would be fun to share not only our adventures, but to encourage other parents to get out and explore opportunities in their cities with their kiddos. Plus, it might keep us more motivated to continue to look for new things to do!
Now…you might be thinking, “but I don’t have the funds to be trying out all sorts of things with my little one, especially when they can only be out and about for small increments at a time”. Me either!!! We pinch pennies in this house, and the things I do (and hope to do) with Sweet P are either free or very low cost. I come at this with a few things in mind. First, I am a mom who wants to enjoy time her daughter! On a personal level, I love to see her light up at new sights and sounds. One year is SUCH an amazing time for learning. Getting out beyond what she sees daily at home is a wonderful asset to her learning. But secondly, I am an educator and a speech-language pathologist. I work in the area of language development. My personal love of her learning and language growth is absolutely enhanced by my knowledge of what research tells us benefits children’s early vocabulary and learning, and the long-term effects that has on language and reading development, and beyond! I want to give her everything I can to help her be a happy, bright girl! Thirdly, although I would not call myself a thrill-seeker, I would say that I am adventurous in that I like to get out and see new things. And it is amazing the fun that can be had doing commonplace, everyday things around your own town…things you overlook or take for granted because you’ve lived in one place for so long, or because you always say, “one day I’ll do that.” This is my own guilty pleasure of exploring the sights and sounds of Nashville, TN!
We welcome you to share in our adventures via this blog, and if you are in Nashvegas, I’ll be looking for you when I’m “All Around Town with Sweet P!!!”
Here is my sweet girl - one year old:
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