Wednesday, September 29, 2010

I wonder how many people looked at me and Joey today in the grocery store and thought I was crazy. I’m trying to take comfort in hopes that at least one mother looked at me and understood. You see today I bought JoJo a new baseball bat and baseball which he insisted upon taking into the grocery store with us. Don’t worry, it was a soft one, nerf or something with Diego on it. Anyhoo so here we are in the freezer section, JoJo chanting “Dego Go, DEGO”….because he can’t pronounce Diego so he calls him Dego, or maybe that’s his Italian roots coming out? Who knows….. and just my luck, he dosnt let go of the bat for a moment so I am weaving in and out of people trying to keep everyone safe from a 20 month old, bat wielding, Dego screaming munchkin. He is having the time of his life and every so often forgets I told him not to throw the ball so he hurls it into the ice cream case or a stack of vegetables from which I have to retrieve before it collects ecoli, thankfully there were no casualties.

We finally make it to the check out line and a nice teenage boy was kind enough to take over batting practice for me, JoJo got a couple of base hits into the wine display behind me and all the while you might be thinking…….”wouldn’t it be easier just to take it away before entering the store”? If your thinking that then you obviously don’t have kids or its been awhile since you’ve been down Terrible Two’s Avenue.

No harm, No Foul everyone was happy and now if I get a gray hair this year at least I‘ll know where it came from. I’ll save the story of the guitar in the grocery store for another day!

Moral of the story….sometimes you look silly in public but I rather be silly then have a screaming baby!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

A Rant.....

I love getting Joey out of the house everyday and we take advantage of our local resources as much as possible. We go to library story times, farmers markets and just about every function in our town that is age appropriate. I think it is very important for children to get early socialization and I just LOVE this age, I love toddlers, they are so precious.
I can’t say I enjoy the company of some of the mom’s we frequently come across. What is it about women when they get into groups that they have to form cliques, be judgmental and or discourteous? We are all in the same boat, we all are busy moms and I think we owe it to our children to set good examples. I know I’m not perfect but I try to be aware of myself, my child and our surroundings.
OK I just realized this post is more of a rant but here it goes anyways…….

Stinky Diaper:
CHANGE IT! Today a lady at story time kept apologizing for her her son’s stinky diaper. I could see in her mammoth stroller she had ample supplies to remedy the situation. If she would have taken 2 minutes to change the diaper it would have been less energy then all the apologizing she kept doing. She “just couldn’t pull him away from the group” as she put it.
Not only was it rude to the whole group but her poor kids was just stewing in it….despite the fact that he really didn’t seem to mind.

Tardiness:
Ok maybe this is one of my pet peeves but I am rarely…..RARELY late. I find it awfully rude when other people keep me waiting due to their inability to plan correctly. Obviously the unforeseen happen, especially with kids and that’s ok BUT try to be courteous of others when you are late. If your late getting your kids to class, playgroup, a restaurant were you might be meeting others, a birthday party, a lesson or whatever it is try not ot interfere with what is going on. It really sucks when the group has to start over, stop, or be totally interrupted because someone is late. Obviously a young child dosn’t know and will take a moment to register what is going on but you’d think the parent would know better.

Nursing in Public:
Ok I know everyone has their own opinion of this and I respect them all. But in keeping with my theme “being courteous of others” let me please remind some moms that just because we are totally comfortable nursing in public dosn’t mean other people are. Its funny how after we have a kid we are much more one to doing what we gotta do for our kids no matter where we are or who is there BUT try not to shock the whole restaurant by whipping out a at-at with no cover whatsoever, LOL!
I 100% feel that a mother has a right to nurse wherever she needs to but modesty is key.

Colds/Sickness:
Stay home. I know….it sounds obvious right?  I guess not. I know when your kid is sick they hate being cooped up all day….as do you. But please don’t bring them to playgroups, school or any of the above. Its just discourteous and says to the rest of the moms “ I don’t care if my kid gets yours sick”. take your child on a walk, to a outdoor park and play ball but please don’t spread the germs.

Candy:
Really lady? Your just going to bust put a lollipop in front of the whole playgroup, give it to your child and expect it to be cool? Its funny how crackers, gold fish, and a juice box can go un-noticed amongst a group of kids but bust out some candy and its like they have sugar radar!
Unless you have some for everyone don’t bring it out in the open.
In turn….don’t give a snack to a kid unless you ask their mother first.  You don’t want to be the reason for a E.R. visit because the kid you gave a Nutter butter to is allergic to peanut butter.

Phone:
Get off the phone. Especially if your kid is throwing things or terrorizing the other kids. Our children learn very early on that if mommy is on the phone she isn’t paying good attention. Not to mention you gotta set a example for your child. You are their to play and socialize and we all gotta answer the phone but please don’t leave the rest of the moms to regulate your child the entire time.

Get UP!!!!:
Nothing gets under my skin more then the mom who sits on the bench, chair, whatever and yells at her kid to stop doing whatever it is they are doing…..over and over and over. It took the rest of us moms two minutes to realize your not getting up from your seat…..I’m pretty sure your kid knows the same thing too. Not only is your kid learning to not listen to you but your driving everyone else crazy.

Monday, September 27, 2010

Wild Angel Quote of the Week

Making the decision to have a child is momentous.  It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.  ~Elizabeth Stone

I'm Baaackkk!!!

I am back and we had a fantastic vacation! We were on a road trip to So-Cal and did the obvious Disneyland/San Diego stuff. A lot of people told me to wait until JoJo was older to take him because he wouldn’t remember but I think that is silly. We had a fantastic time and were able to do it at a adults pace….meaning if he was older he would have tired me out rather quickly, LOL!
Here are some highlights from the trip….

Free at last from the car!

My new favorite picture!
Surprise Surprise, the monkey's were his favorite!

Friday, September 17, 2010

Pardon me while I......

Go on vacation with my lovely family! Thats right, its our first real vacation since Joey has blessed us with his presence and where are we going you might ask?........Disneyland of course!

We were going to wait until he was a bit older but then I realized he will have his own agenda. so we are taking advantage of his youthful ignorance and are going to spend a couple days at the pool in between park attractions!
Be back In a week....or so.


I wouldnt think of leaving you without a wild Angel Quote to think on. Most of us DO have young children so lets do better to live in the moment.....


If I had my child to raise all over again,
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd finger-paint more, and point the finger less.
I would do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging and less tugging.
~Diane Loomans, from "If I Had My Child To Raise Over Again"

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Happy Healthy Kids

On my recent stroll through the isles of our local Whole Foods store I was thinking how much more we as parents pay attention to labels and ingredients more then our parents probably did. I always remember having a ton of sweets, soda and junk on hand as a kid.
It got me thinking of my favorite products for Joey that help me sneak in extra vitamins and I thought I'd share them. Joey is a particularly finicky eater so I have to work hard to make sure he has enough protein, fiber, calcium, and vitamins.
I'd first like to start by sharing a link on a recent study that has proven how a fit and healthy child actually has a better capability of learning, retaining information and being all around mentally smarter.....
Physical Fitness Boosts memory & Brain Function

Probiotics: Not only do probiotics (found in yogurt, some milk and cheese) aid in a healthy digestive system but new studies have shown they help reduce the chances of ear infections, sinusitis, flu and diarrhea. My son just loves the Probugs Organic Kefir for kids............ DanActive is another known brand!

They come in this cool squeeze pouch and pack a whopping 9 grams of protein!

Sign Up to recieve a coupon to try them free!







Fruits and Veggies: Obviously there is no substitute for fresh fruits and veggies however I have found a product that is fun for Joey to drink and is a sneaky way for me to add some servings of fruits and veggies to his diet. Amazing Grass Kidz Superfood is a powder mix formula you add to water that is supposed to offer 3 servings of fruits and veggies in each glass. Only 1 gram of sugar, non dairy, gluten free and has other vitamins like beta carotene, calcium and more. Joey will only drink the fruit kind. They also make a chocolate one to add to milk but I havn't had good reviews on it. Stores that sell it typically have sample packets to try out first.

Visit Their Website for more info












More Fruits:
Also I'm sure you've all seen these cool apple sauce packets that are perfect for on the go and come in a variety of brands and flavors. Be sure to check the nutrition panel, I have found some to contain up to 22 grams of sugar!!! WOW!










Joey also hates fresh fruits ( I know, horrible huh)? so we have found that he will eat freeze dried fruit. Regular dried fruit is a fun way to get them to eat fruits also. Obviously if your kid will eat fresh fruit that is preferable but these are great for on the go also and last long also.












Daily Vitamins and Immunity Boost: You really can't beat the traditional chewy gummy vitamin but for a fun immunity boost our whole family loves Emergen-C. I was so excited to find they have a line for kids and I think its a easy way for kids to get vitamins and a way to boost their immunity. it fizzes like soda and come in great flavors!







Sign up for free samples and coupons!













Lastly, its never too early to instill in our children how important it is to wash their hands!! They make some pretty fun and cool hand soaps now that change colors, foam, and have beads in them!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Iphone Apps for Women!

IPeriod Ultimate: Yup, its what you think it is, LOL! Helps you stay on top of your "woman week" and can help predict fertility and ovulation also.

















The Pill: Ok I thought this one sounded silly but after checking it out it won me over. Not only can it remind you everyday to take your pill but it can also remind you when its time to get a refill! SWEET!












IOvulation:  There are a ton of fertility apps to choose from but this one was my favorite. It is the most personal and easiest to use! It tells you when your best times for getting pregnant is, when your most likely to conceive a boy or girl and you can even set a password so that only you can see it!

















BabyBump: Helps you keep track of your pregnancy without the use of a book. Even better it gives you updates about your growing baby and has fun diagrams!


















BabyTracker-Nursing: I really could have used this when my son was nursing. I felt like the walking dead and for the life of me couldn't remember what side to nurse on next. I think it would be pretty easy to input info while nursing to remind yourself the last time the baby fed and what side. I also know that I used to get worried that my son wasnt getting enough, this tracker would be a great way to document how much the baby is actually eating!

















Calorie Tracker: Enough Said!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Wild Angel Quote of the Week

You have a lifetime to work, but children are only young once.  ~Polish Proverb

Food for thought.....

As more and more of my friends are becoming mothers and embarking into this journey filled with diapers, eskimo kisses and scraped knees I find myself comparing each with each other and myself.  In my head  I ponder their way of doing things, praise their achievements and sorry to say…grimace at some things. Then I remember what it is like to be a new mom ( I still am considering JoJo’s age) and remember that “deer caught in the headlights look“, that odd yet warm sensation of a new baby in my arms, and most of all the fear of screwing up! I also remember all of the unsolicited advice I got from friends and strangers. Despite how hard I try to not be THAT person I find that when I’m faced with a new mom I become THAT person, my own experiences just fall out of my mouth. So if you’re a new mom, smile, nod and store that wild antic that was just shared with you in the back of your head. The crazy dry cleaner or retail clerk may have diarrhea of the mouth but her comment may just save you one day. Who knew that five years down the road her story of how to use peanut butter to get gum out of a child’s hair will save you, LOL!
    I guess what I am trying to say is it is natural to offer, seek, and ignore advice from others. I’m not sure what it is in us that makes us do it but I’ve come to accept it as a right of passage into motherhood. I’ve come to realize that every mom needs to succeed and fail on her own and most important, every mom deserves the right to BE a new mom her own way. Isnt that what makes al of our wonderful children unique? Their unique upbringing? Veteran moms also need to conceed that it is possible to learn from the newer moms, it would be silly to deny ourselves any insight that may help our children. So before you think “oh what does she know”? Maybe you should have a listen.
    Someday, if not already there is going to be something you envy in her child or in the way she handles a situation and lets pray we are wise and open enough to know how to apply that success to our own family. Just like or friendships, we will never agree on everything and that is ok so take the good, forget the less then desirable and let your relationship with your friends and family be a example for your children.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Child Labor in My Home!

JoJo has reached the golden age of  "Me Me Me"! Its so sweet to see him struggle to do something himself, no matter how bad I want to help. It can also be frusterating sometimes, for example when he wants to turn the t.v. on himself and ends up ordering a $3.99 movie. Or when he wants to get his own snack and spills crackers all over the floor but then I just look at his sweet lil face and patience is restored.
One thing he also loves to do is help out around the house. I am ALL for that! Even if he makes more mess then not, or it takes me 40 minutes to fold a load of clothes I think its important to get him in the habit of helping. I know one day he won't be so eager to do so, LOL.
He LOVES to sweep up after he eats.....

















It breaks my heart when he tries so hard to do something and lacks
the ability to. I let him have a fair shot at it though......he then proceeded to ride the vaccum like a wild bull!















Everytime he does this I wonder how long that dryer door is gonna hold out, LOL

Monday, September 6, 2010

No Labor Day

I think that Labor Day should be called "No Labor Day". Anyhow we had a no labor weekend, as did most of you I hope. In town we had a Greek Fest, a birthday BBQ , and played a lil baseball. All in all we got a lot of sun and spent some great family time together!

The Greek Fest was our first stop. I was so proud of JoJo for trying calamari ( he actually liked it), Ya I know its not Greek but that's ok!
There was a cool pirate ship for kids to play on..........


































They next day we had a baseball/bbq/birthday party to go to and we spent hours in the sun having fun!
The big boys played baseball and JoJo was not content playing with the kids his age =(























So naturally we had to stop the game so the kids could have a hit or two!













I think that did the trick because ten minutes later...............

Friday, September 3, 2010

Just Now

I work evenings while my husband stays home with JoJo. Tonight on my routine call to check in it goes a lil something like this....

Hubby: "JoJo wont eat anything but the chocolate donuts you bought. He ignores his food and points to the cupboard even though I made his favorite sausage and waffles.....I even put syrup on the waffles"

Me: "O.k., don't let it stress you out, don't throw away the sausage and try again in a little bit. Just let him watch some toons and try to give him some in the living room".

Hubby:  "You want me to pick the sausage up off the floor and try it later"?

Me: LAUGHING "Ok what about the waffle"?


Hubby: " He sucked all the syrup off and spit the waffle back out"!


Oh the terrible two's, LOL FUN!

I've Got a Secret

Ok well maybe its not a secret to you but it was to me until I was let "in the know"! Did you know Jamba Juice has a secret menu? Seriously In and Out Burger and now Jamba Juice? I don't get it but and now everytime I enter a new establishment I wonder if there is something they are hiding from me.
Anyhoo I hoping someone will read this and make it their mission to try every single secret smoothie and let me know which is best, LOL!

  • Blue Gummi Bear
  • Chocolate Gummi Bear
  • Green Gummi Bear
  • Pink Gummi Bear
  • Red Gummi Bear
  • White Gummi Bear
  • Andres' Surprise
  • Apple Pie
  • Berry Depressing
  • Blue-Topia
  • Butterfingers
  • Chocolate covered Strawberries
  • Dirty Orgasm
  • Fruity Pebbles
  • White Fruity Pebbles
  • Pink Fruity Pebbles
  • Hello Jesus
  • Reese pieces
  • San Diego
  • Skittles
  • Sourpatch Kid
  • Starburst [aka Pink Star]
  • Lemonade Lightnin'
  • Strawberries Dreamin'
  • Strawberries Lightnin'
  • Strawberry Shortcake
  • Sunny Delight
  • Thank You Jesus
  • Tootsie Roll
  • Tropical Tango
  • Melonade wave
  • Now and Later
  • Orange Dream Machine
  • Pacific Passion
  • Peanut Butter and Jelly
  • Penis Shooter
  • Pineapple Dreamin'
  • Rainbow Sherbert
  • Raspberry Dreamin'

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Happiness is.....

Remembering you hid a candy bar in your purse and there is nobody around so you dont' have to share!

Baby and Child Astrology

I'm a skeptic.
I hate to say it but I can often be quite pessimistic
I like to see, touch , and feel something before I can believe in it.
BUT
I love a great story and all things magical.
I'm not sure how I feel about astrology, palm reading and all that jazz. I did however grow up with quite the witchy mother who is eccentric to say the least so maybe there is part of me who loves to believe.
Anyhow when I was pregnant someone sent me a article on what to expect from my Aquarius baby. I laughed because my father, brother, and favorite uncle are all Aquarius males whom have not a thing in common.

Anyhow as I read the description I did find similiar traits they all shared. If only for fun I thought I'd share.

                   ARIES
Aries March 21 - April 19
Planet - Mars
Element - Fire
The Rambo of the play group has arrived! With an Aries baby around, you can expect lots of action and activity in your midst. Don't expect this tot to sit still with a rattle -- it just won't happen. The Aries baby is one who makes a lot of noise and will definitely be heard. There's really no choice! As a Fire sign, the little Ram will be dynamic and always up to something. Will this be a tough baby to deal with? More than likely. To that end, parents would be wise to show this child how to work with other babies early on. Things such as sharing won't come naturally, they must be learned. Even where siblings are concerned, the Aries child won't be a walk in the park. What the Aries baby may want most of all, however, is attention, so parents be well advised. In a play setting, the Aries tot will easily get the attention of others on their own. This baby will also start many things early, the better to get to the finish line, so to speak, in a hurry. To sum up, the Arian baby can be quite independent but enjoys interacting with others. This baby is a fairly physical child and craves constant stimulation. They will be ready from day one! 

                   Taurus
Taurus April 20 - May 20
Planet - Venus
Element - Earth
Parents of a Taurus tot are going to have to be very aware of this baby's need to be touched. Loving caresses and a tender touch are what the Taurus baby lives for! Along those lines, this is a child who needs to be comfortable. Things to keep in mind are providing a room and bed that are neither too hot nor too cold, food that is tasty (a budding gourmand has arrived!), soothing sounds, and whimsical toys. As Taurus rules the Second House, the House of Possessions, this baby's playthings will be very important. When it comes to the learning curve, the Taurus baby is not in a hurry to grasp new concepts. This tot will learn things at their own pace and be unresponsive to pressure, yet persevering in the end. In light of this, a gentle manner to get this baby to react and respond is the sensible course of action. Also familial in nature, the Taurus baby will enjoy having the family in close proximity, especially siblings. You can consider this baby a people person in general, as they are also likely to control the play circle where that well-known Taurean stubbornness will reveal itself! To sum up, the Taurus baby wants to be touched, will revel in delicious toys, and as an Earth Sign, will want to have both feet firmly planted on the ground!

                    Gemini
Gemini May 21 - June 21
Planet - Mercury
Element - Air
Eager to get going (this baby probably kicked up a storm in the womb!), the Gemini baby is likely to be talking early and making a mark from day one. Curious and quite the explorer, this tot is one who needs lots of stimuli in order to be happy, as they are easily bored. Since those communication skills are top-notch, the smart thing to do with this baby is bring them into a play group as soon as possible. At home, siblings could easily fill this function, as someone must! It's never too early for the Gemini baby to interact with others, and they will also learn their lessons early on. The Gemini tot is definitely not clingy. Quite the contrary, this is one baby who is happy to march to their own drummer, gallivanting about and being amused in the process. Surprisingly, when this baby is not engaged (chatting or playing with others), there could be a certain emotional detachment. For that reason, it's best to keep things uncomplicated and easy for them to understand, the better to maintain harmony. To sum up, the Gemini baby is the Great Communicator of the play group, has a short attention span (so keep 'em busy!), and is one clever and creative tot. 

                   Cancer
Cancer June 22 - July 22
Planet - Moon
Element - Water
As a Water sign, the Cancer baby is likely to be more emotional than most. In a word: tears! This baby will probably cry a fair bit, so holding and touching are of paramount importance -- really anything to achieve comfort. Along these lines, this is a baby who needs to feel secure and will easily pick up any bad vibes in the household. Therefore, arguing in the presence of this child should be kept to a minimum. Family is very important to the Cancer baby, as is nurturing. As Cancer is the sign of the Mother, the elements of nurturing, family, and mood swings (think sensitivity and emotions) are highlighted. Also, because Cancer is the sign of Memory, the Cancer baby will retain memories from the past, both good and bad. This is a child who could get lost in the supermarket for two minutes and forever remember it as a sign of rejection from the mother! For this reason and others, this tot needs to be made to feel secure, especially within the family unit (family will always be more important to the Cancer baby than friends). The somewhat reticent Cancer baby will nonetheless surprise Mom and Dad by being fussy about food, so be sure to please that palate! To sum up, the Cancer baby is familial, must feel protected, and with any kind of luck, will learn to swim like a fish! 

                    Leo
Leo July 23 - August 22
Planet - Sun
Element - Fire
The Leo Baby is, above all else, loud! Forget sleep for the foreseeable future, Mom and Dad. This is a baby who must be heard and will certainly let everyone in their midst know what they want. Think center of attention, since there really is no other way for this tot! With a Leo baby as part of the plan, family life will revolve around this magnetic child. The Leo baby adores an audience, so it should come as no surprise that many of these tots go on to become stars of stage and screen. This babe is auditioning early on! To that end, this is a child who is also competitive, so maybe they are prepping for that dog-eat-dog Hollywood whirl from day one. When in a play group or any social situation, the Leo baby will make friends easily and will thrive on the interaction, since being on-stage is where they're at. Even so, they will have a hard time sharing things, such as roles, responsibilities, and even toys. The King (or Queen) of everything they see, they will be the one making the rules, after all. To sum up, the Leo baby is the leader of the pack, loads of fun, and will expect to live in the most comfortable of kingdoms. Pity the parent who won't play along! 

                   Virgo
Virgo August 23 - September 22
Planet - Mercury
Element - Earth
For better or for worse, the Virgo baby is plenty fussy! How else do you expect these kids to grow up to be perfectionists? Get used to it: the Virgo baby can be quite particular and needs to have a routine. At least having a routine isn't all bad, but don't even think of changing it! This baby will not respond well to a lot of change. The Virgo baby can also be picky about food, so keep it simple at mealtimes. Aside from these peculiarities, this tot doesn't require a lot. A clean bedroom and simple clothing are sure to keep this baby dry-eyed. As well, the Virgo baby is quite good at amusing itself for hours with the most basic of games, feeling very little need for the attention of others. The Virgo child also wants to talk early on, probably earlier than most of the other babies around. There's a lot going on in that mind, so it may as well come out! From an early age, this baby can also be seen as mother's little helper, as the need to serve others is a strong Virgo trait. They also won't make a fuss over their accomplishments, since by nature these kids are a bit shy. To sum up, the Virgo baby is fine on their own but also happy to help others, loves cleanliness, and can easily keep themselves amused. Pretty (albeit picky!) good kid. 

                   Libra
Libra September 23 - October 22
Planet - Venus
Element - Air
The Libra baby will revel in the attention of others from the get-go. That baby whom everyone is cooing over at the doctor's office? Yes, it's a Libra. Passive yet charming, people can't help fawning all over this sun-kissed child. Perhaps it's the way a Libra baby smiles when others swoon. Whatever the case may be, this child is possessed of the most endearing qualities. Even-tempered and sweet in disposition, the Libra baby loves to have others around and would much rather be with company than alone. In a group, this child will mix quite well with others, displaying the very Libran qualities of sociability and diplomacy. The Libra tot is a born mediator, perhaps prepping early on for a career as a lawyer or judge. Loving fancy touches, the Libra child is not likely to take well to hand-me-downs, especially girls! These are kids who love to feel pretty, and the best clothes are a big step in that direction. Comfort is also important to this child, so clean, pressed clothes and a snappy room are an added plus. Sense a bit of control here? Well, the Libra child does know how to be manipulative, although they manage to do it in the nicest way. To sum up, the Libra baby likes to talk, loves to socialize, and is a splendid (and even-handed) addition to any play group. Let the games begin! 

Scorpio  Scorpio
October 23 - November 21
Planet - Mars & Pluto
Element - Water
When a Scorpio baby enters the world, all eyes will focus on them. And that's exactly how it will be for a long time to come, as this baby must be the center of attention! To that end, this is quite the manipulative little tot, sucking up energy from everyone around. The Scorpio baby is also a bit mysterious, making it hard to figure out what's wrong when the crying starts. So often, it's something which is seething below the surface and will be very hard to draw out of this child. You must also consider power struggles when thinking of this child, as the Scorpio baby will expect that Mom, Dad, and everyone else will fit into their schedule and plans. Make no mistake, this is a powerful child! The flip side of this is that this baby is quite clear on what they want and can get that message across. One important note: Scorpio babes loathe lounging in dirty diapers, so change them often! Many times, this can be the simple source of their discomfort, although the malady may not always be so clear. For that reason, the Scorpio baby should be watched closely. Someone will generally be watching this child, though, as the Scorpio tot enjoys a crowd, especially one where it can lead. To sum up, the Scorpio baby is clever, wants things on their own terms, and will know how to get it. Watch out! 

Sagittarius  Sagittarius
November 22 - December 21
Planet - Jupiter
Element - Fire
That happy-go-lucky child in the play circle is bound to be a Sagittarius. These carefree tykes march to their own drummer, and yes, they will walk early! They'll also be beating a path to everywhere, since they love to explore. Independent and free-spirited, it's imperative that the Sagittarius baby have lots of room to roam. Confined spaces are a disaster for these wandering souls, so they'll simply flail about until they can get out. The good news in all this is that the Sag baby won't have to be entertained every second of the day. That said, be sure to keep tabs on them in public places, as they could easily wander away! Above all, the Sag baby loves to explore, whether it's a new toy or a new friend. No fear here! This kid is a sponge, soaking it all up with relish. Thankfully, this child will know how to make friends and can be counted on to have lots of them. They love being part of a group, whether it's at home or out in the big, brave world. And it's that world they want to see, which may be why it's so easy for this baby to hit the road. Whether by train, plane, or the high seas, the Sag baby will travel better than the rest. To sum up, the Sagittarius baby needs freedom, has a curious mind, and is forever on a journey of discovery. Happy trails! 

Capricorn Capricorn
December 22 - January 19
Planet - Earth
Element - Saturn
The Capricorn baby has a plan from day one and will definitely stick to it! A bit on the serious side, this is a child who is disciplined, methodical, and highly organized to boot. Is this really a child?! Well, yes and no. Not adventurously inclined, the Capricorn baby almost seems dull, but they are simply taking time with things, learning lessons slowly, so as to learn them well. This child enjoys feeling important from an early age, so don't hesitate to give them responsibilities. The Cap baby is up to the task! They also understand things better as they get older and appreciate the merits of a reward system. Good deeds are repaid in kind! This babe will rejoice and will happily live with that precept in mind. When it comes to learning, the Cap baby shouldn't be rushed, preferring to follow their own pace of discovery. Early lessons will be of the organizational kind which is how this tot's mind operates. Organizing the play group will be play indeed. As with everything, the Cap baby will be hyper-focused and determined. Even speaking will be undertaken with great effort and diligence, leading many Cap babies to bypass babbling and go straight to chatter! To sum up, the Capricorn baby prefers to play it safe, enjoying the efforts of a job well done.

Aquarius Aquarius
January 20 - February 18                                        (Joey's Sign)
Planet - Uranus & Saturn
Element - Air
Is the Aquarius baby lonely? Well, it may certainly seem that way, but appearances can also be deceiving. This is a child who is a bit detached, even aloof, so that solo time may be exactly what they want. Even when crying! This kid would rather work out that hissy fit alone. This, of course, begs the question: could this tot use some socialization? Probably. Since this won't be the Aquarius baby's natural state, the company of others will become an acquired taste with much prodding from Mom and Dad. The Aquarius baby does have much they can teach others, since this child will pick things up early and differently. The rebel baby has arrived! Parents, sibs, and friends will quickly grow to expect the unexpected from the Aquarius tot. The companionship of friends and others will be quite important to the Aquarius baby, even if they don't know how to show it. For that reason, this is a pattern of behavior that should be encouraged. While the Aquarius tot can be stubborn at times and certainly into their own stuff, often their mind is engaged in creative pursuits which should be nurtured as much as possible. To sum up, the Aquarius baby is a talker, very bright, always thinking, and actually enjoying the company of others, despite appearances. Work with this baby, and they will shine! 

Pisces Pisces
February 19 - March 20
Planet - Jupiter & Neptune
Element - Water
Seeming like a bit of a lost soul, the Pisces baby will get emotional and start crying for no apparent reason. It's part of this timid baby's personality, along with a tendency to carry things inward and not push them out. Expect a whimper rather than a shriek. Along these lines, the Pisces baby will pick up on the family's vibe, sensing arguments and other familial disruptions, and being profoundly affected by them. This fits in with this child's very caring, almost selfless persona, a quality which manifests itself in things like giving away toys. For this reason, Mom and Dad need to see to it that their Pisces tot doesn't get pushed around in the play group. Extra-sensitive by nature, this child also benefits from an added dose of attention, whether it comes from parents or sibs. With a wandering mind (this is the sign of the dreamer, after all!), the Pisces baby will find it easy to get lost in thoughts, almost blocking out the real world. Safe to say that this kid shouldn't be entrusted with many details -- they will simply forget them! That dream state is one which should be monitored at night, as the Pisces baby will be greatly distressed by bad dreams. To sum up, the Pisces baby would rather give than receive, is dreamy by nature, and possesses the fluidity attached to a Water sign. Let this sweet river flow!

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

As a child I remember the bitter sweet arrival of the county fair. It gave me butterflies in my tummy just looking at the rides but also marked the end of summer. Soon school shopping would begin and the smell of the fall air would take over.
Nowadays the poor kids have already started school and have to sit all day through class anticipating cotton candy and face painting.
Winter comes before spring, you must walk before you can run and school should not start until the fair has come and gone!
There also comes a time when things like the fair, Christmas, and Halloween looses its magic....that is until you have a child!
Last year JoJo was only 6 months but he still enjoyed the animals and ice cream. I enjoyed trying funny jester hats and sunglasses on him!

This year it was a whole different ball game! It is so much fun seeing his eyes light up at all the novelties....until I realize he had set his sights on miscellaneous junk he wants me to buy, LOL! But as my girlfriend and I made our way through the maze of concessions we laughed at all the junk we "just had to have" at theme parks and places like the fair. It's part of being a kid! I got out of there with a $5 Diego the Explorer balloon....not bad!
JoJo was a bit fearful of a couple of the rides, he didnt scream his head off like some kids (which is easier to determine they don't like the ride) but instead he tucked his head and looked frightened. It broke my heart but there were still some he wanted to go on so that seemed good.
So how come I don't remember being that tired after only a couple hours at the fair or amusement park? Is it because I just crashed in the car or because I didn't have a list of chores at home waiting for me?
Anyhoo kids really do make things magical again and bring out the fun kid in all of us!
JoJo getting ready!