Always changing . . .

It seems like the boys change so rapidly that I have to record all the little things before they slip away and I forget.

Easton is changing like crazy. He took his first steps right after the new year and has been unstoppable ever since. Most babies wait until they can balance rather well to walk. Not Eastie! Once he started taking steps, he was off and is already trying to run. Each day his balance gets better, but it sure has been funny to watch him figure it all out. Easton also figured out how to get up and down the stairs. This kid is a problem solver and doesn't give up. He will try again and again until he gets it perfect and that's what he did with figuring out the stairs. Easton is signing "milk", "dog", and "ball" and is trying to figure out how to sign "eat" (right now he keeps patting his head). I think he is going to be really good at the "terrible two's" since he is already throwing himself on the floor when he doesn't get his way or what he wants. We always know when Eastie is causing mischief because he growls as he starts his capers. He is still full of laughs and smiles and is still our sunshine.

At the end of December, a mutual decision was made with Camden's preschool teacher to remove him from preschool for the time being. He was having as many bad days as good days and the stress was wearing on us all. After the advice of many friends, I've been reading Raising your Spirited Child and The Out of Sync Child. Both of these books have been a tremendous help to me. I see much of Camden in the descriptions found in these books. It's been reassuring to realize that my son is normal, just a bit more sensitive and spirited than the average child. In addition to helping me understand my son better, they have helped teach me strategies and activities to use with Cam. We're seeing a lot of improvement in him at home and in public situations. I'm learning what sets him off and what to do help him. I'm also learning strategies to help him help himself. Now instead of hitting, he will tell me he is angry and what he needs to do to calm down. I'm thrilled to be able to understand him better and be a better parent to him. It has been downright awesome to see my beautiful boy blossom, thrive, and mature before my eyes. His imagination, intelligence, and creativity astound me.

We had his preschool evaluation last Friday. I prayed that it would go well and that the evaluators would be able to know my concerns for him. I knew he would pass the academic parts with flying colors and wondered how they could evaluate my behavior and sensory concerns. It may seem small, but I know the Lord heard and answered my prayers because Camden went into what I call "classic Camden" when confronted with noise. The speech therapist wanted to test his hearing. I was filling out paperwork and not paying much attention, but the speech therapist wanted to put something in his ear and he freaked out! He ran screaming from the room and went into full Camden melt down. I took him outside and calmed him down. The therapist skipped the hearing test and instead sat and talked to me. She asked if this was a typical behavior and I told her yes. I explained my concerns to her and what had happened in his last preschool. Without me even bringing it up, she mentioned a sensory processing disorder, mentioned occupational therapy, and talked to me for a bit about that. It was such confirmation to me, that my concerns have been right on the money. I only wish I had of followed through on my instincts months ago. I don't know if he will qualify for the preschool, but if not, I have the number of another evaluation service to call. I am praying that he will qualify for services at the preschool and be able to learn coping strategies for his noise issues.

I am grateful to be a mom to these beautiful boys. I'm grateful for the opportunity to become a better mother. I know these children have been placed in my life specifically to teach me how to be a better parent - more patient, loving, and kind. I am very grateful for all the good friends who have listened to my concerns without judging, who have given me advice, and put me on the paths to understanding my son better. I'm grateful for all the prayers and best wishes on behalf of my child and myself. I truly feel them and they have helped when I have questioned my parenting and my own self worth as a mother.

Shamelessly Showing Off

Pictures of my two boys! I absolutely love how this photographer captured my boys and their personalities. If you are out in the Wasatch Front or the Uintah Basin parts of Utah, give her a call. She has reasonable prices and does great work! I scored a free session, but have already booked family pictures for the fall because I loved her work so much.

http://www.tinamieraphotography.com/Proofs/

Pull down the drop down menu until you see my last name (hint - starts with a D). Hit "enter gallery." Then hit submit. There is no password. I don't know how long the proofs will stay up, so check 'em out when you can.

Houston, we have a 3 year old!

Holy cow! I didn't think it had been that long since I last blogged. Where has the time gone?

Camden turned 3 over the weekend. I cannot believe I am a mom to a 3 year old! Cam loves all things Mickey Mouse for his birthday and wanted "Mickey Mouse club house ears" for his birthday cake, so I obliged. I love making my children a special cake each year and this was no different. It was my first time using marshmallow fondant and while it didn't turn out quite as smooth as I hoped, Cam loved it and that's all that matters. He kept opening the oven and looking at his cake until his party.This was the first year that Camden really got what a birthday was all about. He loved being the center of attention and opening presents. Each one brought such joy to his face. I loved watching his faceHe's already got that 3 year old attitude down pat, as seen in this picture before church. He's probably wondering why Mommy dresses him in such funny clothes (because I can my son, because I can).

And of course no post would be complete without the squishy we call Easton. I love those cheeks!

My Easter Post

With the help of super high tech tools like a paper clip, our photo card was rescued from the computer slot where it was not-so-tenderly shoved and Camden will live to see his 3rd birthday. Without further ado, Easter pictures!

Camden was so excited about his first official Easter egg hunt. They gave out bags of candy at the beginning and he clung tightly to it. He didn't realize there was candy in the bag until much later, otherwise there wouldn't have been this picture.

Camden found one egg and was so proud to have it! The Easter egg hunt was rather lame, but he had fun and that's all that matters. Easton, as usual, slept through the entire thing.

We had so much fun decoarting eggs together. Cam had to count them all to make sure there really were 12 eggs. He also insisted each egg had a name.

Of course the boys got new clothes for church and I had to take a picture. Notice the look of terror on Easton's face. "Mom, you're going to let Camden hold me? Are you crazy?!?!" Yes my dear child, I am. May you live to tell the tale.

Finally Camden actually looked at the camera and smiled. Easton looks resigned to his fate of being held by big brother.

And one last picture of a smiling squishy. I love those cheeks and that smile! Chubby babies rock my world!

A blossoming friendship

Before Easton was born, I was worried how Camden would adjust to the change of a new little person in the house. Cam can be a bit stubborn and set in his ways and I knew Easton would turn his world upside down. When Cam first met Easton in the hospital, he basically ignored him. When Easton came home, Camden wanted nothing to do with him. Easton was a nuisance who took time away from Camden. I worried then that they may never like each other much. As time as gone on, however, signs point to the idea that they may become good friends.

Camden will lay down next to Easton, hold his hand, and talk to him. He loves to show Easton new things and new tricks. He'll bring a paci when Easton is crying. The other night though, Camden melted my heart.

We were eating dinner and Easton had just awoke from a nap. He was in his swing while we ate. As time wore on, he began to fuss because he wanted Mom to hurry up and finish eating so I could hold him. Camden got down from his place at the table and went and stood by Easton's swing. He patted Easton's head and told him, "It's ok brother." Then he told East to "hold on" and Cam ran into the living room. He came back with a rattle for Easton. He put it in East's hand and told him, "Here you go." And he stayed there by East for the next few minutes while I finished eating. As I watched Cam's care and concern for his brother, I realized their relationship is changing. They are becoming friends. I only hope that friendship continues to grow.

My Growing Boys

My boys are getting so big! Easton is a dream baby. He sleeps well, eats fast, and is so happy and smiley. He is a true blessing! Here is a picture from a few weeks ago. He's 8 weeks old now.

Camden got his first stitches a few weeks ago. He fell off the couch and hit his head on a toy. He was sure proud to show them off. I am so blessed to be the mom of such great boys!