Dear David - June 2010

Dear David,

Where ever did your voice go? Somewhere along the month you have almost totally stopped talking. Ok thats kind of a fib. You speak only when necessary or if your playing with your brother or friends. I find you day after day coming up to me nuzzling your head into my knee making the sounds a kitty cat makes. Then I ask you,

" David are you being a cat today?"
You nod your head with a big smile and laughing eyes and whisper meow before your trot away. At first this was cute, but now I find myself wishing this kitty play phase would please hurry and move along.

You are very content to play by yourself or hang out with me. I come home from work feed you boys a snack we talk about your day and then Gabriel runs off to play. You hang out with me while I cook dinner. We talk, I ask you questions.

"David, how was your day?"
My day good

"David Would you like to color while I cook?"
What are you making mommy? Can I help you?

I pull up a chair to the counter and hand you a plastic butter knife or measuring spoons and we listen to music while I cut and chop. You hold on to the spoons or knife watching what I am doing. You ask " Whats that?" ... an onion " Can I eat it?" ...I chop up a thin piece and hand it to you, watching as you inspect it first. You sniff it. Put your tongue to it two or three times. You then put it in your mouth to bite and quickly give it back to me . "That's sour" We move along to mushrooms . The routine goes as before you ask, I give . You taste, but this time approve of the taste of mushrooms so I give you more to nibble on.

You watch as I load a pan, clean a mess. Always studying what I am doing, asking " Are we done? "Can I chop more? Can I have a cookie? "

Somewhere along the way you grow bored of me. Wonder what your brother is doing and tell me " I be back" you climb down the chair, and walk away. Sometimes you come right back. Sometimes you will climb onto the couch and sit right on top the freshly folded laundry I just placed down on the cushions. I ask you to please move little. You answer no by shaking your head and then you say " I want to stay with you".

So there you sit. In a pile of wash towels. Sorting socks. You like my colorful ones so you pick them out and place them next to you or in the sock bin. Sometimes we chit chat. Most of the time we watch my soap. When the commercials come on and I pause the TV to put laundry away. I come back to find you holding the remote, telling me to press this button , the yellow button... to make the TV go. You did this again today. I looked at you and you looked and me and we smile at each other. Then you said to me " I love you mommy" in the sweetest little voice, it almost made me cry I love you so much.

Luv,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel June 2010

Dear Gabriel,

Another month another letter. With lots of changes in our lives you still manage to be the center of attention during most days. The long and short of it is... its been a pretty boring month. Lots of time at home making cupcakes after school on Fridays. We have spent a lot of time reading and working in your work books. I have taken to having long conversations with you during the time we have together. Sometimes it feels like an interview. I think your answers are silly and plan on recording one of these preschooler interviews on the Flip and posting it soon.

The questions revolve about your day and your life ... your many opinions on your likes your dislikes. What your diggin' what your not feeling. Who's a cool kid who's a trouble maker. I like to ask you what you want to be when you grow up. Every few days this answer changes.

Gabriel What do you want to be when you grow up
day 1- " an alligator hunter"
day 3- " an alien"
day 5- " I want to catch alligators"

See your still into alligators. Your eyes light up when you talk about them and your curious about all things alligator. You love to learn new things. You love to sing. You remain a happy healthy boy. You smile a lot. You laugh at your own jokes which I think is hilarious. Since you say things like.

"AHAHA that's funny. That makes me laugh, your laughing too!"

We continue to urge you to share your toys, to use your words not your hands to get your message across, to shake it off and not to be too sensitive as sometimes you get your feelings hurt for very little reason. You have little interest in building or playing solo. We have a collection of blocks that you ignore and don't want to have anything with. You always want to be around us. You never want to be in the other room doing your own thing. You walk into the kitchen... " Mommy, what are you doing? Can I help?" While we are watching a movie or TV... "Hey what is this what is that guy doing?" You love to make reports. " Mommy David is throwing his dinos at Pumpkin" (the cat), Mommy, Daddy told me to see what your doing. Daddy, Mommy said pick up my dirty clothes but I don't want to do that"

Your turning into a little busybody. I kinda adore it. Its heartwarming to see what will come out of your mouth next my sweet little love bug.


Love,
Mommy

Dear David May 2010

Dear David,

On Monday our family went to Half Moon Bay to celebrate Memorial Day. It was our first time taking a day trip that lasted all day. I am feeling more confident that we can handle a day of adventure with out the extra help of your grandparents or Titi. I watched you walk to the waters edge with your daddy and brother. I thought to myself, time has really gone by fast these last two and a half years. I am amazed at how tall you have gotten, that shortly you may catch up with your brother in height. I watched you watch the waves as they hit the shore. I watched as your daddy lifted you up so that you would not get wet again (you did not like the water touching your feet I noticed... probably too cold) I giggled to myself as you made your way back to me on the dry warm sand running as fast as your little legs could take you. Arms wide open I greeted you for a hug and asked if you liked the ocean and if you had fun. Your answer was " No. I sit with you mommy!"

And there we sat for a long time. Not saying much as you munched on your snack and played with a toy you dragged with us from the car. I watched you run your toes in the sand. I watched you watch other people. I watched you watch your brother. I thought to myself, this little boy and I are a lot a like. It's funny the things you notice when you just sit and watch someone you love be themselves.

I love you more and more each day. The taller you grow, the more you talk, the more your little shell cracks open . I love watching you become the person you are going to be.

Love,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel - May 2010

Dear Gabriel,

Every day your growing more and becoming more independent. You seem to be in a rush to grow up. You watch older boys when we are at a party or at the playground. You often mimic their actions their words. I'm really not sure if I should encourage you to do this or if I should nudge you to find your own way. Watching you watch them makes me think back to when I was young and listening to my mom always to tell me to be a leader, don't follow other people. I fell into cliques,was a victim of peer pressure and wonder if you are headed down that path. I see your frustration when the older boys will not acknowledge you. "He's too little" I have heard them say to each other, but still you follow them. Many times you have looked for me " They won't play with me". It hurts my heart watching you get teary eyed wanting so badly to be one of them. I feel that you crave it, you have to have their acceptance. It's times like this that I find parenthood a hard job. Part of me wants to tell you to find something else to do, to thicken your skin so that you can shrug off less then friendly behavior and get ready for more of it as you get older. Part of me wants to take you and give you a hug and tell you to come play with me, we will find something to do but when I do that you pull away and tell me your too big for hugs and kisses. Which has made me sad from time to time. David watches you often. He mimics everything you do but he seems to know hes not ready to play with the big boys. He hangs back and watches you run, jump and do what the other boys do and tells me " Gabriel is a big boy" I hear the anticipation in his voice, he also can not wait to grow up.

We are at the end of your first "school year" of preschool. You love school although you get frustrated because your still learning to use words rather than your fists to resolve a conflict. We are working on it. I don't know where this little temper of yours comes from. That's not true, I do. I have a bit of a temper myself. Again its things like this that make being a parent hard. You never really think your going to pass down your temper, your snippy attitude or your mean streak. I have however passed along all of these little traits to you my love. They are as I call them Michelle-isms or shall I now say Gabriel-isms.

Last Friday we were in the kitchen making a batch of cupcakes. This is you new favorite Friday after school activity. You sat patiently waiting to mix in the butter, stir in the eggs and of course lick the spoon. I watched you work the whisk the way I have showed you over and over. I thought to myself. I am blessed to have you in my life and I am a lucky person to be able to give you all of the love my heart has to give.

Love,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel April 2010

Dear Gabriel, 

Tonight we were hanging out on the couch and I gave you a hug and a kiss and you look up at me and said "mommy your my favorite hot stuff" WOWZA what a Casanova in training. I am sure if your daddy had heard you say that he would have beamed with pride that you were picking up some as he likes to call  them  "player moves"  I thought it was silly and we both giggled while I tickled your tummy.

 Your saying the funniest things these days I want to capture them somehow and record the things you and your brother say.

Here is an sampling of your greatest almost 4 year old moments this month

Mommy do you know what a crocidilean is , it means I am a crocodile

No I don't want a baby, I have a brother

 

I like chicken nuggets they are small  chickens

I'm Peter Parker you are my princess MJ 

Lets go  fast and run over the motorcycles

You crack me up as I am typing this. Silly little. April was a busy month for us we had many adventures including four trips to the zoo a trip to the california hall of science to check out an albino alligator and lots of running around doing errands and taking care of everyday stuff. I love taking you on adventures , you always keep me company chit chatting about this and that asking why that neighbor man is watering his plants today and why the plants need water.  Not only have you been very curious but you  have been starving. I feel like I can not keep you feed enough. A couple of fridays ago I kept a closer eye on exactly how much I fed you that day . 

mc donalds nuggets french fries and half a cheese burger

a mango smoothie

pretzel sticks with peanut butter

two bowls of spaghetti

one scoop of ice cream

oh my! I wish I could bottle up the energy you have that burns those calories I would be a millionaire!

As I was tucking you in last night you became very quiet and told me very softly that you wished I did not have to go to work because you miss me when I am gone. It brought a little tear to my eye. I miss you too and wish I  could spend every  waking moment you have with you watching you learn new things, listening to you giggle and play.

Let's see what May has to bring us its your fourth birthday this month. There will be lots to write about.

Love, 

Mommy 

Dear David April 2010

Dear David,

You are still potty training. It is not going as smoothly as I had hoped it would. You have accidents  which is normal but now you have started hiding out to go number two. The goal is to really get you to tell us on time  I have to go caca... the other day you came to inform me you had caca and you were holding it in your hand after you plucked it out of your underwear. I was not a happy mommy. You, however had a huge smile on your face. I could not decide if you were happy that you were on your way to put it in the toilet or if you wanted  some props for making a caca.

SIGH! I just keep reminding myself you will get there... you will get there. 

Besides the "excitement" of potty training  you and I have been up to lots this last month. We both look forward to our date Friday where we go on "adventures" as you like to call them. Basically we run errands and you get a chocolate milk and vanilla scone from Starbucks and talk to the people in the drive thru line.Every Thursday night when I am tucking you into bed I tell you about all the fun we are going to have on our morning adventure. You get very excited and say " I want to go to Target , I want chocolate milk " I think its  funny that you have our little schedule down however Daddy and Papa  think I need more variety in my life... I kind of agree so we go to the Hayward Target now instead of Bayfair. 

Your still digging reptiles. Your new favorite one is the Jesus Christ lizard whom you both discovered watching that Life program about animals in their natural habitats. You walk around the house with a plastic green lizard and say things like "look at Jesus Christ", "where's Jesus Christ" , "Can I take Jesus Christ?" and sometimes you throw it at Gabriel and say" HAHA Jesus Christ got you". At first I was really confused why you kept calling this lizard Jesus Christ and then I put it all together and thought oh my lord  these littles and the reptiles. 

Last week we had to attend funeral services for you great grandfather. Daddy explained to you that we were going to Jesus' house and that we had to be very good.  While at the services you kept talking to Gabriel and you guys were looking around. I was watching you closely  but  could not figure out what was on your mind.  You finally looked at me and said "Where is Jesus Christ?" I whispered "We are at his house shh lets be quiet", you replied "I don't see a lizard".

So shameful that we are Catholic and you think going to Jesus' house is visiting with a lizard.  But these are the things you remember when you have children and in case one day I don't remember this story I had to write it so I can never forget.

Love, 

Mommy

Dear Gabriel -March 2010

Dear Gabriel, 

The change in the seasons has actually brought a little bit of change in you. The more I listen to you speak and articulate the more I am amazed at how fast you are growing up. I often listen to you tell me a story and hear how you sprinkle in bits of things you have picked up listening to us talk. My current favorite is  "it's a long story" . 

On Sunday you had  some type of calamity that caused you to cry and throw a fit. When I asked you "hey whats wrong my love?' You buried your head in my lap and said "it's a long story... I don't want to talk about it" Despite your obviously rough time I looked over at your daddy and we smiled at each other before we convinced you to shake it off and go back to playing. I think it's awesome that you are using new words and terms. I will admit I think its  so funny that you have picked up my knack for drama, even though I am sure this is some type of karma coming back on me for dramatics deeds of my days past. 

This month has also brought a change in your appetite. Much more now than before you are willing to try something new or come close to finishing a meal with out lots of waste. Which makes me very happy.  Here are some things you are really digging right now

Burritos- ha so funny to see you attempt to gobble one down

Astro Boy - your new favorite movie

Money- you have become obsessed with money. Collecting a penny if you find it on the street and sticking it in your pocket and your piggy bank

The Zoo- yep its that time of year again to be zoo bound as often as possible

Alligators- I heard on a recent trip to the zoo you and David held your Titi hostage at the alligator tank for 45 minutes just checking out what they were doing.

The ocean- Cause  fish and sharks and  alligators live there.. umm no but you refuse to let me correct you so we are going with it

Feelings- You are always reminding me and David that we have hurt your feelings when you don't get your way... thanks for the guilt trip

Milk Shakes- cause who wouldn't digg a milk shake all the time?

You are getting really really close to getting your training wheels on your bicycle taken off which I think will officially make you a big boy. I am not sure about that I will need to check the how to parent a big boy manual but I can say it will be a pretty big deal once those wheels are popped off. As always this month you have been a bright spot in my day as you always will be. I miss you so much when I am at work or away from home and can not wait to get home and listen to you fill my head with almost four year old gibberish. Your sing songy voice fills my heart. I love you so much.

Love, 

Mommy

Dear David March 2010

Dear David, 

What a month what a month. You are doing so very good at potty training! We have now reached a point where we can leave you in your super hero underwear all day and you will come and go out of the potty as you please. Yes, its true that there have been some accidents but that's normal and once we have this hurdle of caca in the toilet and  not in the pants taken care of I am proud to say you will be potty trained and ready for preschool.I am hoping you will get past this next step soon and in time for my birthday in June since that will make the best birthday present a little DaveyPooh can give. 

Besides the toilet training a lot has been happening with you too this month. You seem to be very happy when its time to play alone. I think sometimes you get overwhelmed by your brother and all of his large motor skills that causes him to thrash about and causing mayhem that makes you eventually burst into tears. You my little fellow are a  quiet little guy. There is a sweetness and a sensitivity to you that your brother does not seem to posses and for that reason I find myself taking my time with you a little more.  I won't speak as loud  when I am asking you questions about your day, I don't seem to mind as much when you waste your food  and refuse to eat whats on your plate. I don't even get irritated  when you will single handily eat an entire weeks worth of bananas by yourself. That is right , when shopping for groceries we are now up to 3 bunches of bananas a trip a majority of which you eat alone.  

IF YOU EAT ANY MORE BANANAS YOU WILL SURELY SPROUT A TAIL AND CLIMB UP A TREE YOU ARE SUCH A MONKEY! 

Many a day you will ask for a banana. You will inhale it in seconds stuffing the whole thing in your mouth and  when its in your tummy you will then walk up to me and ask for another banana.  AYE!  Your banana issues have caused me to move the bananas to a "safer" area in the kitchen where you will not climb on top the table looking for a banana fix. 

This month you seem to have taken a bigger interest in reading books and spending time alone. Many an afternoon I will walk through the house and find you on the couch looking through a childrens encyclopedia  calling out the names of things you recognize  and asking what's that to things you are curious about. Something else that has started happening with you this month is you started doing a lot of climbing. Last week I walked into your room to see you standing on your dresser ( you used the drawers as stairs) with one hand on your hip and one fist in the air. You then announced to me " I superhero, I Batman I go!" Luckily I caught you before you jumped and we quickly put an end to you climbing on top the dresser. SIGH

Things you are digging in March

Reptiles- You want to watch all sorts of TV programs about reptiles. Should I thank Bindi the Jungle Girl for this?

Batman- My favorite superhero too, you love him and you are only happy these days when you have your cape and mask on

Waffles topped with bananas- YUM

Restaurants- shameful, but we finally mastered the trick to eating out with littles heres the recipe for restaurant success

      - Order  your mac and cheese  meal first  

        ask if they have black beans cause your love them  

        order two cups of chocolate milk 

      * these tips make for make for very happy busy little boys.

       But you  love eating out and making time with the waitress perfecting your flirting skills. Something I obviously              passed along. 

"I do it"-  your new favorite thing to say.. cause you want to do everything by yourself!

Dandelions- One of the best things about bing a kid is blowing dandelions into the wind, good for you baby! But please stop trying to eat them :(

As the month is just about over and we approach your brothers fourth birthday and your third. I feel like I am starting to mourn your babyhood. I know moms always say "he will always be my baby" but it have found myself getting teary a few times this month knowing that there are not going to be any more babies joining the family and I need to enjoy whats left of this very special happy time. So here's to whats left of babyhood and all the adventures we are still bound to have I love you very much muffin man.

Love , 

Mommy 

Dear David February 2010

Hooray for my little Daveypooh! This month we made great strides in your potty training success. I am so proud of you. Each and everyday you are growing up a little bit more.  It's been a tough road to get you to go pee pee on the potty but now all I have to do is remind you and you do it ... like a little pee pee rock star.

We are still working on getting you to tell us when you have to go and working on #2 but hey it's a start. It's fun seeing you walk around the house in your big boy underwear. Sadly it reminds me that the days of having a house full of babies is soon to be over. This idea fills me with excitement for the next chapters in our lives and sadness as no mommy wants her babies to grow up so fast. 

This month you have been up to so much. We have been getting you dressed up in your Batman cape and mask everyday at your request. You run up and down the house for what seems like hours on end. You have been very interested in art projects and helping out around the house by "cleaning" the coffee table with a old dry wash cloth. At first I got it wet for you to help out but you just sucked on it to get  the water and refused to clean so we have made small changes as you love to "clean" . When I ask you to pick up your toys in your room however you refuse so really I don't think your as into cleaning as you pretend to be . But thats okay. 

Looking forward to what March will bring.

Love , 

Mommy

Dear Gabriel -February 2010

If ever there was a person that can try my patience it is you. It seems that these days we are butting heads left and right. I know this is probably what happens to little boys right before they turn four years old as you are on the brink of little boy independence. Here is a list of things I want to get accomplished with you these next couple of months before your birthday in May.

* Lessen if not cut out the whining. 

- the only person you whine to is me and it can ruin a perfectly good Saturday morning when you scream and cry for no reason. the minute you get what you want the crocodile tears dry up and smile pops up on your face

* Get you to independently clean your room.

- AH I know this is a long shot but I am hoping you will just wake up one day and put your own toys away

* Put you own laundry away.

- Again a dream but there is nothing wrong with mommy shooting for the stars

* Get you to like working in  your workbooks.

-Currently your not a fan of homework but I am hoping this will change soon as we have a lot of work to do

This month so much has been happening with you. I can sit and listen to you go on and on about your day, what you had for breakfast, why you didn't want to eat lunch, what you had a dream about. Why Daddy will not play "Beat it' when your driving in the car cause its your most favorite song ever and you love it. Why David is not allowed in your room because he's a baby and your a big boy and only big boys and Pumpkin the  cat can go in your room 

ACK!

WOW,  see  your a talker and when you don't  like something or have something to say you say it... reminds me of someone I know quite well actually.

Since you and your brother are getting older and listening to and trying out table manners we have been able to get out of the house a lot more for dinner  which I love since it means less time I have to cook and Daddy loves since we are doing more outings. The secret  to dining out success for us has been to order your dinner first and get you guys a chocolate milk.Then  you will sit quietly coloring doing your own thing or chatting with your brother.  It's made a world of difference I wish I had come up with this sooner.

 

Love, 

Mommy

Dear David January 2010

Dear David, 

My little maker of mischief. Although January has been an all around boring month for us  as a family you have sprouted in to quite a little trouble maker this last month. Clothes tossed out of the drawers and piled up in  your room, it must have been David.  Someone jumping on our bed and making a mess of the blankets and pillows, yep it  must have been David. Someone tossing food from their plate in protest of what is being served to them, oh yeah thats you David. Oh my goodness if I really had more times on my hand I would write down every little naughty thing you have been up to but I fear the list would be longer than I would actually like to admit to. 

So on to some positive things you have been doing this month. Talking SO much. Your putting little sentences together left and right. Putting your shoes on yourself. Helping to pick out your clothes. You are a very good people watcher, one person in particular ... Gabriel. What ever he has done you are immediately going to copy him. So as I am sure you can imagine this has increased the amount of mischief that you are actually creating in this house these days. To top it all of you have developed this funny little chuckle ( it is so funny) its like a throaty little  "AHAHAHA" that you let out when ever you are actually up to a less then happy moment for mommy . It reminds me very much of a little comic book villain  that goes after the super hero and sets him off course and then little thought bubble is filled with the glee and delight in the trouble they have caused. It's all very cute just like you my little luv bug.

Love, 

Mommy

Dear Gabriel - January 2010

 Dear Gabriel, 

New year new fun with my little baby bear. I wish I can say we had a more exciting month but after all of the holiday business we really had a not so exciting month.  you have turned into quite the little music kid. You love singing and dancing. For awhile now you have been singing your favorite preschool jams from Noggin and Nick Jr. but now you are recognizing  songs from the radio and asking me "Mommy, what is this song ?" I will answer Frank Sinatra, U2, LL Cool J whatever it happens to be. You contemplate it listen for a minute more and decide if you like it. Sometimes you break out in a funny little dance, listen to the lyrics and attempt to sing along and sometimes you request I change it to the next song. 

This month the tormenting of your little brother  has taken a turn  straight to naughty -ville. I will say that  this last month you have been on time out more times than I can count. And still even after you apologize to David   not even 5 minutes later you are wrestling, tackling, or jumping on him again. After a few long talks that we thought we were getting through to you I have just about given up.  I am hoping you will lighten up on him but I keep hearing this is how boys are and I am ready for the challenge. 

Love , 

Mommy

Dear David December 2009

Dear David,

 My sweet little boy. That is what I think every time I look  at you,  while your sitting on my lap and we are snuggling . I swear  no baby is sweeter than you. Your smile , the look you get on your face when you learn something new or are surprised. I think one of the things I love about you the most is your sensitivity. You are always wanting to share.  Your toys , your food , your giggles. Your both shy and boisterous at the same time. How that's possible I don't know  but you do it wonderfully, the magic of little boys I guess

Your feelings get hurt often and your just now learning to stand up for yourself.  We have to remind you to tell Gabriel no when you snags a toy that belongs to you, or if he tries to steal a cookie or cracker off of your plate.  Your willingness to let Gabriel have his way  bothers both Daddy and I and we are  working on building your self esteem. I had no idea two year old's could have these kinda of problems but it makes sense when I think about my childhood. I was painfully shy and always let my little sister be the star of the show then one day I snapped out of it and low and behold you have your momma. You and I are a lot a like my little love.

Many days I find myself walking to your room  to talk you out of  a meltdown because  your big brother hurt your feelings.  I always knock on your door and you chirp" No, No Mommy. Go Away"  but then when I don't come right in you open the door and look for me. Our sweet little routine happens at least a couple of times a day . Then  when you feel better and reassured that we all love you and when Gabriel has come to apologize and give you a hug you toddle away with him excited to be playing with your big brother again.

This month  you have taken on some new obstacles.  You are dressing yourself , pulling on your pants and your shirts after much coaching from you Daddy in the morning and Coco during the day if we give you enough time you will get yourself dressed. This past weekend you finally put your shoes on for yourself for the first time... well the first time I have witnessed and we were all delighted!  when you were done ... you jumped up and said" I bigkid , I big kid now!" Oh my gosh was all I could think. WOW my baby is getting so big and growing up. Next  we are taking on potty training full force!

I don't worry about your speech any longer. Your are a very talkative  boy, with questions, answers and complaints.  You are singing songs with Gabriel and asking your own questions and complaining when I don't put enough syrup on your waffles. So I think its  safe to say we have it covered.

A fun memory I have of you this month , we are dancing in the living room our usual afternoon routine but  for some reason it was close to bed time and I was not ready to put you littles to sleep just yet... Gabriel and I were cutting a rug and as usual you had to be coaxed  into dancing but once your got started you were jumping and waving your arms trying to keep the beat of the song we were listening to. It was so silly. Your Daddy was laughing and we were all cheering you on. When the song was over Gabriel gave you a hi five and said : "You dance funny David"  you laughed and said "Thanks!" as you smacked his hand back then started grooving all over to the next song that came on. Your such a little funny guy always cracking us up.

Love,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel December 2009

 

Dear Gabriel,

Last night you and I had a "camp out" in mommy and daddy's bed. This is what you like to call sleeping with us. As we were laying in bed talking you were telling me all about our day. How you helped mommy take down the Christmas tree, how you had a milk shake at Starbucks, how you tried to escape the shopping cart at Target and  how much fun we had when we got home and started cleaning David's room and finding a new spot for all of your new stuff. As I was listening to you talk and tell me about your day I was brushing your hair out of your face and thinking how lucky I am to have such a smart  happy boy as my son. Everything excites you and that excites me!  We have had some ups and downs this month. I think its been a rough month. Our schedules have been kid of goofy  from the holidays and I look forward to getting us all back on track. This month you learned a lot about the Holidays. We had a holiday party at your preschool, we went to a holiday party for the mother's club.You visited Santa quite a few times  and  everyday when you walked in the door you asked to watch Mr. Grinch and would sing the songs from that movie every chance you got. Both your Daddy and I would laugh when we were with you at a store and you would tell the people you saw, "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" in your cute little sing songy voice. Your such a cute little elf!

When we went to your preschool holiday party , the teachers had  posted your  class mates letters to Santa on the walls. I took it home and hung it on the fridge and nowthat's its time to put our holiday stuff away I wanted to document it.  So here you go .... Gabriel Alvino's first Santa Claus letter:


Dear Santa Claus,

I want  Spiderman stuff. I want Venom cause Spiderman can fight him. I want a Candy cane and a Spiderman suit. I'm good I do flashcards at Coco's house. I help my mommy do laundry and I help my daddy work on the motorcycle. I help my brother eat some lunch. Merry Christmas!

Your Friend,
Gabriel

Brilliant! I love it. As I read it I laughed out loud at the mention of doing flash cards at Coco's house because she does have you doing a lot of flashcards,  and I laughed a little louder at the laundry because you complain so much when I ask you to pick up for dirty clothes and place them in the basket and refuse to put your clothes away when I ask you. I can just imagine how funny it was to take these notes down as your teacher. Great Idea.

Some other things you did this month. You helped mommy wrap Christmas gifts and it was your job to place them under the tree. You helped Mommy and Daddy decorate and take the down the Christmas tree. You continued to feed Pumpkin the cat, this by far is your favorite chore and you are very good at it. You do it with out fail but sometimes need a reminder to get started.

Your imagination is growing like a weed. Just like you!  Yesterday we were at a drive through Starbucks , When Daddy finished  his order and we pulled up a little in line you knew exactly what to dowhen you saw the speaker box. It was so funny to hear you give your "order" even though the window was rolled up and no one could hear you but us. You wanted a chocolate milk and a cookie, and asandwich and a gold fish? and Spiderman to fight Venom and you wanted to play with Bumble Bee cause you like auto-bots and they are good guys and everyone likes good guys and you know how to beat up bad guys and you don't like bad guys or strangers but you like fish sticks and cheese and juice.

WOW!  You went on and on it was so funny. Your a hoot to hang out with Gabriel. I can only imagine what next month will bring.

It was amazing spending this Christmas with you and seeing the look of excitement  and happiness when you saw what Santa Claus brought you. And yes there was plenty ofSpiderman and Venom stuff to keep you happy.

Love,
Mommy

Dear David

Dear David,

I am writing this note to  you on Thanksgiving day. It's your second Thanksgiving and just the joy of you being you has given us so much to be Thankful for. Now let's talk about your month. This month David you had a nasty little cold. You were coughing, crying and were just plain miserable. Many a moment of my day was spent wiping that gross green drippy  nose of yours. But, gladly you are on the mend for your big date at Coco's for Thanksgiving.

Your talking and use of words has continued to develop. You  are finding new words each day and using them properly. I have noticed that you have a slight issue with  the use of  the letter "S". When you say Scott , for Papa Scott it comes out "Cott" . I am working with you everyday with the "S" sounds. Making sure you see my mouth when I form "S" words.

*sock
*some
*sheet
*snack

I also ask you to repeat the words until I hear the "S" clearly formed and pronounced. Sometimes you like these little lessons sometimes you don't. It all depends on your current mood like all things with you my little love.  You  are finally tall enough to reach for my doll Marigold I keep up high on my bedside table. I have found  you cuddling with her or bringing her to me this month. Very cute, but little boys don't play with baby rag dolls so I need to take it from you  and put it away.

Your appetite  has increased dramatically this month. We can not seem to keep you full enough. Of course most of what you want is snacks and not real food but here is a list of your favorite things to nibble on as of late.

pasta, with butter and cheese
hard boiled eggs, you can down a whole egg lickety split
cupcakes
cookies
tummus... Hummus but you boys like to call it tummus so I let you
cereal, but not really. you like the milk in the bowl of cereal and lift your bowl up to sip the milk but avoid the cereal. This has been frustrating  on many a morning as you want more cereal but have not eaten the first bowl.

You continue to follow everything that Gabriel does. If he jumps you jump. The other day Gabriel climbed over the arm of the sofa and you followed suite and then before I could stop it "SMACK" went David right on the hard wood floor. My heart almost leaped out of my chest as I ran over to comfort you I was sure you broke your lip or nose. Disaster was adverted you were intact  and not bleeding, but very upset. I snuggled you close and reassured you that you would be ok. However, the lesson was not learned  as you are still chasing down your big brother. Desperately trying to become a big boy and I want you to stay a baby.

I love you my handsome baby.

Love,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel

Dear Gabriel,

Today is Thanksgiving. Your third one. I want you to know  I am thankful for the gift you have given me and all the lessons you have taught me being your mommy. There was a lot going on in your little life this month. Although you missed some school days because of a cold you have been bringing home more art projects . Mommy had a teacher conference with teacher Sherry at school. Here is the report I got back.

Progress Report Fall 2009:

The Children I play with most: Ayden, Sidney, Christos, Kyle and Matthew.

Favorite Activities: Art, easel painting, play dough, blocks, and sensory tables. He loves outdoor play a lot:he enjoys bikes, scooters, and the sand box.Gabriel tries everything at least once.

Goals for the year: To continue to show desire and curiosity to learn.

Comments: Gabriel is very outgoing, smart, polite, lovable and very funny. He is very eager to learn and have fun with his classmates. I am excited to watch how much Gabriel will mature and grow over the school year.

I am so glad baby bear that you are enjoying school and that you are getting the most out of your experiences there. Just like teacher Sherry wants to see how you grow  and develop during your school year Mommy is very excited to see what an even greater little boy you grow into.  Love you so much little bug!

Love ,
Mommy

Dear Gabriel October 2009

Dear Gabriel,

You are growing up so fast. Mom and dad have decided  start you off on some chores that you are pleased to do, Your list of chores includes.

Feeding the cats
"setting " the table with your place mats
clearing the table of your plates, and cups. You also help David  with his place setting. Thank you!

Although you enjoy your chores and do them everyday with out complaint and tons of 3 year old excitement you still refuse to help mommy  clean your room  or pick up your toys. Why I don't know. You have no problem doing so when Daddy asks you.

October has been a busy month for you. You are coming home excited about everything. Singing songs you learned at school and reciting stories I have been reading. I walked in to check on you and David the other day while you were playing and you were both sitting on his bed . You were reading "Llama Llama Misses Mama"  one of your favorites. It was so sweet you were trying to use the same intonation I use when I read your the story.  As I was spying on you  I thought it was sweet that you pointed the pictures out to David and were trying to keep him interested in the story. Your little brother giggled and clapped as you " read" on and then you scolded him for messing  you up. Yikes.

Both you and I are busy planning for our first Halloween party. This includes mommy finishing up the shopping and menu while you remind me everyday " Two more months to Halloween. "  when actually as I  began this letter it was two weeks.  Yesterday you reminded me  that it was " Two weeks until Halloween". Cute. We have not quite yet taught you the concept of months, weeks, days but you are getting a head start with all of the planning we have been doing.

Earlier this week I used your chores to include adding your used dishes to the dish washer when you are don't with them.  This was thrilling to you. getting to actually use the dishwasher. You cheered and beamed as I clapped and said " Hooray for Gabriel". Daddy laughed too as he said " Wow the domestication of my sons had begun". Daddy and I had a good laugh  and then looked at you in amazement  at how much you have actually grown and all that you are capable of doing.

You are also learning to read. Coco has some flashcards she has been using with you and David over and over. You can read the cards that say  the following:


Gabriel
David
Alvino
Mommy
Daddy
Coco
Daddy
Monica

Also listed on the cards are our full address. Street number city and state.

Every time  you read them  for me I am so proud of you. You are doing a great job at being a little boy.


Love,
Mommy

Dear David October 2009

As I was walking into   the hall way the other day I called your name  " David"  to see where you were (you were much quieter than usual)  I heard a hearty little chirp that surprised me . "WWHHHAAATT?" as if you were irritated with me calling you and interrupting your day. This sassy little answer stopped me dead in my tracks and after the shock was washed away I giggled to myself.  My theory was confirmed. You my dear little boy are a brat! A joyful little brat I will add.

This last month you have grown leaps and bounds. You have taken on a new name in the house. ( I have never known a child to have so many little nick names)  Your new name is Davey two times, since you repeat everything your brother does.

I am giggling as I write this  because yeah you do have a lot of nicknames and here they are:

Davey -Pooh
BBD- Baby boy David
Baby D - there is a cute song to go along with this
Pooh-licious
Poop-elstein
Cupcake boy- Mommy's name
Muffin Man  - Daddy's name
Tiny Tiger - your first nick name that never really stuck. I wanted something similar to Baby Bear , this is what we called Gabriel for a long time. Oh well you really can't force a nick name
Repeat - Titi's name for you... I am not a huge fan but who am I to dictate everything.
Dave- Papa Scott has taken to calling you Dave. YUCK ! I despise the shortening of proper beautiful names. He does it to irritate me .
Number Two - Ha ha . What Coco calls you.

 Wow quite a list. D- is for delightful. A  great word to sum you up little guy.

Now back to life with David this month. Your flair for saying the word "No" has stuck with you and it seems in my observations to have  grown.  Your  first reply to everything is no.

"David, do you want a cookie"?

"NO!"  then you relize what I asked and it turns to "Yes, coooookie Yes"

"David, give me a kiss"

"NO!" and you waddle away

"David, I love you!"

"NO!" and then a smile and  you  run to me for a kiss on the cheek and a hug. Silly baby.


You are so determined to be seen and heard and a part of everything but your answer to any question  always starts with no and then you change your mind. 

You are now making  sentences. It amazes me at how clearly you speak . You are quite the conversationalist. Many a day after work you and I sit in the kitchen while I am cleaning up and preparing dinner and we talk about your day. I can see the little wheels in your head spinning as you try and form your answer and put words together the way we all do. It's sweet.  One sentence you have perfected these days is:

"Ochie , Gabriel hurt me. Boo Boo."

 As you lift your hand for me to kiss it or point to your cheek or your head. Can I tell you,  while you have perfected this you have also grown into a little fibber since 8-10  times Gabriel will be in a totally different room and no where near you when a mystery booboo appears. I know you just want the kisses.

Luv,
Mommy

Dear David September 2009

 Dear David,

Much like my letter to your brother, I don't know why this never occurred to me before. To write a letter to you to tell you about your life. The happenings, your favorite things and the joy you have been to us. This month September 2009 we celebrate your 2nd birthday. You have really started to become your own person David. You have your likes and you obvious dislikes. You have no trouble telling us if you do not like something. In fact, I am really starting to regret we ever taught you the word "No" because we are paying for it now ;)

As a littlier guy you had a bit of a speech delay. You my dear boy are making up for that delay by picking up a new word what seems like everyday... Current word count  over 50 but you are still on the quiet side and I can see that you will eventually come out of your little shell. The other day I was tucking you into bed making sure you were as snug as a bug. I told you "Good Night David " after I kissed your nose and you looked and me and smiled and said "Good nite... mama" it was the sweetest thing I had heard all day. Your voice is like a little drip of syrup, warm and yummy. I immediately melted. It took me a minute to leave your room I just wanted to eat up all of the energy and amazement  that shines through you. 

I am writing you this letter  just  4 days shy of your second birthday. I can not remember feeling happier to be a mommy then how I feel right now. You are growing up so fast and that excites me and makes me a little sad as well , because we plan on you being the last baby for our family. I am eager for you to grow out of the diapers and on with potty training, but I find myself not pushing it as much as I did with Gabriel because I want you to stay my cupcake boy forever.

David I will tell you,  you have inherited your dad's love of sleep. You are ready for bed promptly at 6:30. If you are not  cleaned up and in your pj's you are not a happy camper and the baby temper flares. We keep you up a little longer  to make sure you are good and worn out but there have been occasions that I will go looking for you and I will find you laying on your bed with your alligator (toofers) snug in your arm and your blanket pulled over you the best you can manage. When I see you there you always pop up your head and say  "HI, nite" . So sweet and let me tell you appreciated. You are also  a late sleeper. We have to wake you up everyday. David Scott Anthony Alvino enjoys his sleep and don't mess with him when he is getting it. 

Here is a list of what else you are currently up to

Likes:

Your famous favorite word "NO"  and you say it just like that "NO!"

All things Halloween Especially Skeletons

To jump on the couch ... mommy no like 

To chase the cats

To copy all things Gabriel does

To share your food with Gabriel and Paella the cat ( I don't like that either... the  cat part not the brother. It's ok to share with him)

To smile, laugh and thrown a howling fit

Cookies of all kinds

Dislikes:

Food.. please grow out of this soon

When your brother does not share with you

Being told No

Staying in the house you want to explore

Well,  happy beautiful boy I wanted  you to know you are loved, adored in fact. You were the perfect cherry topping on my sweet cupcake life. Everyday I am thankful for you and the gift of being your mom. We have lots to learn together  you and I. I look forward to all of those lessons.

I love you, 

Mommy

Dear Gabriel September 2009

Dear Gabriel, 

You are three years old. In the 40 months that you have been here with us  so much has happened. You were born, you had your first kiss, hug, bath, bottle, diaper change, tooth,  word, ice cream cone, sibling,tantrum, accomplishment and so many others first to list. I started my blog as a way to chronicle  you life , your brothers life and our many adventures or misadventures as it sometimes is. However, in all the time of keeping a baby book or blogging it never occurred to me to write you a letter and tell you about yourself. And so it is... a new project for mommy a monthly letter to my sons.

Gabriel you are a joy. Plain and simple. I am going to ooze sappiness and sound a bit cliche the way all mothers do when they speak of being a mom. You never ever have any idea the joy and love you feel at the moment  you first child is placed in your arms as when it actually happens and what an impact one human being can be on you. At that very moment you were handed to me I was in complete and utter love and have not fallen out of love yet. All that you do is interesting. Your mannerisms, the way you hold a spoon or a crayon. Your obsession with rice whether it be helping me make it or shoveling it in your mouth you can not get enough. Just shy of  your third birthday you were totally potty trained. You and I were both proud and beamed with excitement each and every time you yelled to me  from across the house "Mommy, I went caca!".

I never thought something as gross and lame as that would put such a smile on my face but it did each and every time. Gabriel, you are my sunshine boy. Up early like mommy ready to greet the world and day with new questions and challenges. Because  of our mutual appreciation for rising at the break of dawn you and I have been on many an adventure in the early morning hours. Going for walks together, catching up over a latte and hot chocolate at the local Starbucks  or leisurely strolling Target you have become my constant buddy, my favorite shopping companion. In fact,  I think you and I have had more hot dates these last three years together than daddy and I.

Now that you are in preschool you seem to really have your own little life. Friends I don't know, teachers who you speak to more than I do and dare I say it a mind of your own. As sweet as you are you are a naughty little guy too. Always the first person to get themselves into mischief and a shining example to your brother in what a little boy should be like... loud, funny, and full or energy. 

What are you currently into?

Likes:

A fascination with Halloween, skeletons especially

Wow Wow Wubzzy

Bedtime stories

Your Coco

Constant snacking

Playing Preschool Ninja

Spiderman

Dislikes:

Going to bed

Listening to mommy and daddy

Pumpkin(this is an ever evolving relationship, sometimes your off sometimes your on.. as I type this letter you and the cat are off.)

Food that contains any nutritional value (deep breath, we waste so much food... we really need to start composting)

Table manners ( we are working on it) 

I wanted to write you this letter to tell you that quite honestly you have me wrapped around your cute little finger. Whatever you want you always seem to get. My little man. My first baby. You and I will always be companions and friends.

I love you, 

Mommy