An Ode to My Mom Friends

Moms sometimes get a bad wrap.

We’ve all seen the viral videos: one mom gang with a certain set of beliefs ready to judge and disagree with another mom gang.

Fortunately, all of the moms I know are the complete opposite of that, and I learned really quickly that good mom friends were a top necessity on this crazy parenting journey. Honestly, there have been a few times when I have no idea what I would’ve done without them.

So, today, as we celebrate all the moms in our life, I’d like to give a special shout out to all my amazing mom friends. You guys know who you are:

Thank you for listening to all of my crazy mom concerns and pretending they were actually valid.

Thank you for sharing yours with me.

Thank you for loving my son as your own.

Thank you for celebrating even the smallest victories.

Thank you for watching Callum at the drop of a hat.

Thank you for understanding that sometimes toddlers just like to hit each other.

Thank you for respecting the decisions I make for my family, even when they aren’t the same as yours.

Thank you for helping me on my quest for the perfect Instagram picture.

Thank you for not judging me.

Thank you for all the Starbucks.

Thank you for embracing my imperfections.

Thank you for letting me complain about being tired when I’m sure you slept way less than I did.

Thank you for lifting me up with your crazy maternal strength.

Thank you for the hours spent talking about our kids over a class of wine or several.

Thank you for showing me there’s more than one right way.

Thank you for not rolling your eyes at the dog hair and dirty dishes.

Thank you for keeping it real.

Thank you for getting my need to always be doing something. I’ll be happy just sitting someday.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all of the love and support for me and my family. Mom friends, you inspire me each and every day. I am a better mom, friend, and person because of you.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

A Day in the Life {2}

Tap, tap, tap. Is this thing on?

Hey, there. It's me, Megan. Remember me? I know it's been a long time, too long. Life has just been crazy busy lately, and I haven't been totally motivated to write about anything specific, so I thought a little break wouldn't hurt. And, you know what, I think it did me good. I feel like I have several fresh ideas rolling around, and I am looking forward to writing about them soon. Stay tuned.

In the mean time, I thought it would be fun to share a day in the life post. These are my all-time favorite posts to look back on. Callum changes so, so much in such a short period of time, that I so often just forget what a certain stage was like. These posts help me freeze frame this period.

So, here's what our day looked like last Thursday, February 25. I must say, this was a very, very busy day. Callum and I definitely get out of the house a lot, but this day was especially packed. I promise most of our days aren't quite this exciting.

5:45 - I woke up to Callum crying in his room, about an hour earlier than he should be up. He's definitely still tired since he didn't wake up happy. I head to his room and snuggle him back to sleep. He falls back asleep quickly, but unfortunately I don't.

So, I get up, make some coffee and watch some news. I also catch up on a few days in my Mom's One Line a Day diary. I love, love, love this journal, but I rarely write in it everyday. I tend to write three or four days at once.

7:30 - Callum's up and ready for breakfast! He loves to stand at the kitchen island and just chat away while he slowly, slowly eats. He also tends to eat his cereal with both his spoon and his hands. I guess it's just easier for him to get it in his mouth that way. :) He's also been inhaling cuties like crazy lately. 

8:30 - We're off to the gym. Any time we're driving in my car these days, we're listening to the soundtrack from the Sesame Street Live show we went to. Callum asks for it every single time I start the car. I actually don't mind it at all, and love to make Callum smile as I ridiculously sing along to it. 

A few weeks ago, I was driving around in the car by myself and it took me about 20 minutes to realize I was listening to Elmo and singing along. #momlife

I get in a run at the gym while Callum hangs out at the gym daycare. He loves it there! And I love that I can get my work out down right away in the morning. Here. Enjoy my first, and most likely last, gym selfie. Also, I had my pants on backwards the whole time I was at the gym. I thought I was really making progress on that mom tummy. Turns out, that extra room was actually for my butt. 

10:00 - After the gym, we headed to my friend, Abbey's house, for a playdate with her son, Otto. The boys had a great time playing with trains, planes, and cars, and I had a great time talking with Abbey over some coffee.  Love me some play dates.

1:30 - After a quick lunch (He was asking for more Rice Krispies, but I was able to distract him with some mac n cheese and veggies.), Callum's down for his nap and I get a little work done. Thankfully, Callum still naps in the afternoons for a good 1.5 - 2 hours. When his bedroom door is open, he can see me sitting in the dining room while he's laying in his bed. So, I get started at the computer, and he falls fast asleep. 

3:00 - With about an hour left before Matt gets home, I decided to pull out some markers and paper. Callum traced his hand, while getting more marker on the table than the paper. Thank goodness for washable markers!

3:30 - After coloring for a bit, we spent some time showering our new foster pup, Max, with some attention and cuddles. He's the all black one in the picture below. Max had a rough beginning in his life and is pretty scared of people. We've been basically forcing our love on him, and he is slowly, but surely, starting to warm up. We just have to show him how great being in a loving home can be!

I should've mentioned this earlier, since we stopped to do this many times during the day, but we've slowly started potty training. We're not forcing anything or taking Callum out of diapers yet, but I try to frequently ask Callum to sit on the potty, especially when we're at home. We've been doing the old one M&M for a No. 1 and two for a No. 2, and it seems to work really well. After we've been doing this for several weeks, Callum has actually started heading to the bathroom a couple times without us asking him if he has to go. Progress! In a few weeks, I hope to have him in diapers 100% of the time. Like I said, I'm not forcing it, so if it doesn't work out, we'll just wait a little longer.

4:00 - Matt gets home and we all head outside to play for a bit. And, here's where things get real exciting. Sweet Max managed to get out of the yard and we spent the next hour or so trying to convince him to come back. Since the poor guy is so scared of us, the last thing he wants to do is come to us when he's called. With the help of some neighbors and their dogs, we managed to safely bring him home. While we were Max-tracking, Callum played with our amazing neighbors. Such life savers!

5:30 - I had plans to meet my friend, Danielle, downtown for dinner and a drink, but we quickly changed our plans after I was stuck corralling Max back home. So, we went just down the street from my house to Hue for wine and pho. It was so great to catch up with Danielle and was the perfect opportunity to unwind after a crazy busy day.

8:00 - I got home to a quiet house. Everyone was fast asleep! After letting the dogs out one last time, I snuggle up with some Netflix and veg out until bed time.

Just recounting this day makes me remember how exhausting it was. But, it was a good one!

The Everyday Struggle with a Twonanger

I'm not really sure how to say this without sounding like a terrible person, so I'm just going to get right to it: I love Callum like crazy with every single part of me, but, these last few weeks, I haven't really liked him. My sweet, quiet little boy has transformed in to some sort of stubborn, crabby, defiant monster.

We've moved in to a whole new territory over here, ladies and gentlemen. My two-year-old now has a big personality and lots of opinions, and he wants them heard now! See that face above? The side eye and the pouty lip. I've been seeing that one a whole lot more than the smiley one I much prefer. I'm well aware of the fact that these are growing pains as we move in to a whole new stage of development and independence. But, man, it has been hard.

It feels like I'm struggling with him every day over the littlest things. It's a fight to get him dressed in the morning. I can't get him to stop hitting the dogs. He throws a fit if I don't let him watch another episode of Thomas the Train. Every mole hill is turned in to a mountain. Callum is pushing his limits any chance he can get, and I just feel like I'm a ticking time bomb just waiting to go off.

The other day, I came in to his playroom and asked him to start picking up his toys. He looked me straight in the eyes, held his hand out like a stop sign, and sternly said, "Stop talking, Mama!"

Whhhhhhhaaaaaattttttttt? How do I even respond to that? How do I explain to him that's not ok?

I am just starting to feel so overwhelmed by this new stage of defiance. Am I am discipling too much, or not enough? Am I damaging his psyche permanently by ignoring him when he acts out? Does he even understand that he's doing anything wrong? I am just so unsure of how I should be handling this sort of behavior. On one hand, I'm worried that I won't be able to get this behavior in check and I'll dealing with a badly behaved child until he's 18. On the other hand, I'm trying to relax, take a deep breath, and just remember that he's two and a half, and this storm shall pass.

So, tell me, mommas: Tell me this is normal, and all the screaming and tantrums and "Nos!" are to be expected. Also, what did you do? How should I be handling my difficult "twonanger?" What books did you read and advice did you listen to? I feel like I read a million books about what to expect the first year, but have no idea what to expect for the next 17.

One of my favorite pieces of parenting advice I've ever heard is: Just give them a hug. Through the tears and the screaming and the yelling, just give them a hug. Because, when it comes down to it, that's probably what they need the most. So, that's where I'm going to start.

Goals for my 29th year

Last week, I turned the big 29. As birthdays usually go when you get older, it was a lovely day where I received lots of phone calls and texts from close friends and family, read through a ton of Facebook messages from people I haven't seen in years, and was treated to a delicious dinner out with my boys. It was perfect.

One-year-old me with my Dad.

That evening, I was reflecting with Matt on what a great year my 28th was: I started blogging more and joined the MKE Moms Blog contributor team, we celebrated and stood up in Matt's sister's wedding, we adopted our second pup, George, and, probably the most life-changing for me, I transitioned from a full-time working mom to a part-time one (and threw a job change in there). I already know there are great things on the horizon for the final year of my 20s: more weddings of people I love dearly, fun trips, and just watching Callum grow and learn new things every day.

Still, there were a few things I would've changed about last year. So, to ensure a great year ahead, here are a couple areas I'd like to work on personally over the next 365 days.

1. Want less.

Whether it's a new sweater, a larger house, or just a change of circumstance, I'd like to work on wanting less. I think we're all guilty of just wishing we had something bigger and better. Now, I'm not talking about dreams and goals, those are good motivators and tend to have positive effects. I'm talking about those destructive wants. The wants you don't need. The ones that can become toxic and make you feel less than. It's so silly to waste my energy on what I don't have, when what I do have is greater than I could've ever imagined.

2. Slow down.

I think this is going to be especially important over these next few months of holiday madness. This next year, I'd like to make it more of a priority of just being in the now. The dishes can wait five minutes while I sit and enjoy conversation with Matt. I can give myself 30 minutes to enjoy a book during Callum's nap, instead of stressing about getting some work done. I think a less-rushed verison of myself will be a happier one.

3. Eat less sweets.

Brought to you by this year's Halloween candy.

Seriously. I have a been a fun-sized candy bar eating machine. Sweets have always been my downfall. I can easily pass on a bag of chips, but offer me a piece of cake and I won't refuse. I can always feel a change in my body when I cut back on sugar, It's always a good change. I feel better. I sleep better. I have more energy. It's just always a struggle to remind myself of that.

4. Stop feeling guilty about making time for myself.

Whenever I do something just for me, I often end up feeling guilty about the time I'm taking for myself. No one is making me feel bad about this. In fact, Matt encourages me take the time to refresh and re-energize, but I still wind up feeling bad about it. I need to do a better job of enjoying my me-time. After all, taking care of myself will make me a better mom and wife, and make me happier all around.

So, bring it on, 29! I can't wait to see what the next year holds.

Dealing with the mom guilt

This past weekend, my mom took Callum up north to visit Matt's parents. When the plans were made for this about a month ago, Matt and I were thrilled. A weekend without any kids! Sleeping in! No schedule! Eating out whenever we wanted to! Count us in. Way in.

As the time for his departure grew closer and closer, I started to second guess how great a weekend without Callum would be. I was worried he was going to miss us too much, and that I was going to miss him. Was it really fair of me to have a fun weekend with out him?

Then the day arrived. I was not excited at all. I wouldn't have been upset if they decided to cancel the whole trip, then my baby could stay home and snuggle with me all weekend. But, off they drove as I was almost in tears. Why wasn't I excited? I now had complete freedom, and could do whatever I wanted. Not what some toddler wanted me to do.

Why did I feel so guilty about it?

Before becoming a mother, I had no idea the amount of guilt moms feel on a daily basis. Whether I'm sending him away for the weekend, putting him in front of the television so I can take a shower, or forgetting to schedule his next doctor's visit, I end up feeling guilty about a decision I made.

It's so hard not to feel like there's always something I could be doing better. Enough is never enough. Throw in today's world of everyone posting their perfect little lives on every single social channel, and it can be impossible to feel adequate.

I know I'm not a bad mother. I love my son like nothing else in the world. I am there for his every need, almost every day and night. I feed him his vegetables and limit his screen time. So, why can it be so hard to convince myself that I'm doing a good job?

That day as my mom drove off with my son, I decided I would do my best to no longer feel bad about the mistakes I make as a mom. Because for every minuscule mistake I make, there are a million ways I am kicking this whole parenting thing in the butt.

So, last weekend, Matt and I soaked up every single kid-free minute. We went out to eat for almost every meal, slept in, and completed a few projects around the house. The time together was just what we needed. And, although I missed Callum like crazy, I was able to enjoy the weekend guilt-free.

I don't think there will ever be a time where I no longer experience mom guilt. But, I can do my best to remind myself that, as a mom, I am doing a job that is far to be ashamed of.

Dropping in

Hi there! Ho there! Just dropping in to share a few photos from the weekend. I'm currently checking in from .... jury duty!!

As much of an annoyance jury duty can be, I'm looking forward to hopefully being called for a panel. I'd rather do that than just sit for two days. Also, I can't complain about spending the day in this beautiful building.

On Friday, Callum, my mom, and I went to Lindner Pumpkin Farm for the day. We had an excellent time! Keep an eye out tomorrow for a post on it up on MKE Moms Blog.

Saturday, Matt was volunteering for a local walk/run, while I took Callum down to swim class. After swim, we went over to grab some coffee and a little breakfast with friends. The weather was perfect. We sat outside and the boys were able to watch traffic and run up and down the wheelchair ramp. Everyone was happy.

Saturday afternoon, a new foster pup arrived at our house. Meet Astro. He is the sweetest! And, he's such a tiny pup. It's hard to see in the pictures, but he is perfectly Callum-sized. We love him and hope he finds a good home soon!

We spent the rest of the weekend getting Astro settled in, watching football, enjoying the gorgeous weather, and spending some time with some cousins who are visiting.

Hope you had a great weekend! Now, on to a good week that includes only one day of jury duty. Fingers crossed!

The gentle reminders

A couple weeks ago, Callum and I took a trip to the mall. Why, you ask? Because, I guess I like punishing myself. Mall trips with toddlers are always an adventure. And that's putting it nicely. Well, I only had one stop to make and I we'd thought survive. Plus, we had no where to be, so we were able to take our time and walk at Callum's pace.

After about 45 minutes of Callum talking over the balcony to the mall walkers and riding escalators, we made the return we needed to and were ready to hit the road. It was getting close to nap time, so I was dealing with an especially feisty Callum.

We made it all the way to the end of the mall when I realized that we parked on the complete opposite end. After a minor panic attack, Callum and I rode down the escalator and started our trek to the other side of the mall. Of course, by this point, Callum was in totally two-nanger mode. He was refusing to walk with me, but wouldn't let me carry him, whining the whole way.

Finally, I just picked him up and carried my kicking and screaming toddler through the mall. I was totally mortified. I just needed to get out of there fast, or else, I'd be kicking and screaming, too.

As I was walking past the Fed Ex man, and I was sure he was rolling his eyes at me and my unruly child, he just stopped and smiled at me.

"My kids are now 21 and 22," he said. " I miss that age so much. Enjoy it."

And, just like that, I took a deep breath and hugged my sweet Callum a little tighter.

Parenting is funny like that. Just when you are about ready to give up, when you're convinced you can't make it through another minute, let alone another day, you get that gentle reminder that everything's ok. Something clicks and you realize how great you've got it.

So, today, let me be your random Fed Ex man at the mall. Let me tell you what a great job you're doing and how lucky you are. For a minute or two, forget the problems you're facing and those insurmountable mountains you have to climb. I promise you can do it. Remember, you've got it good, Momma.

Happy Second Birthday, Callum

Today, you, sweet boy, are two! The last two years flew by, but then it's hard to even imagine that you've just been in our lives for two years. I feel like I've known you forever. 

Everyday you amaze me. You are transforming into a little boy with the most sparkling personality. You're silly. You're sassy. You're independent. You're sweet. Two years ago, on the day I meant you, I would've said it was impossible to love you more than I did then. But, somehow, I do. 

Here are a few things I never want to forget about two-year-old Callum:

Your favorite foods are cereal and peanut butter.

When you laugh really hard, you cover your mouth with both of your hands. Kills me every time.

You prefer to stand in the bath tub instead of sit.

You always want to help me in the kitchen and you are better at cracking eggs than your dad.

When you are doing something you know you're not supposed to, you come find us, hold out your hand like a stop sign, and say "Momma. No. No. Momma." You give yourself away before we even catch you doing anything.

"Gentle" is still not a concept you understand.

You love anything that goes: diggers, planes, trucks, trains.

You hate wearing clothes. If you had your way, you'd be naked 100% of the time.

You also hate when we have to change your diaper, but still tell us you don't want to use the potty.

Every time you ask for a bagel, you say it twice. So, it comes out "bagel bagel."

You still sleep with your dang nae nae.

You call every thing Matt and I are drinking "beer," which really makes us look like quality parents when we're in public.

You have the best laugh I've ever heard. I would do anything to hear it.

You love Jax and George, and only torment them about half the time these days.

When you're up in the morning or after your nap, you yell "Wake up, Mama!" over and over until I come get you.

You spent the summer playing in any water you could find, and you still throw a fit if we don't let you play in the sink when you want.

Speaking of fits, man, oh man, are you good at them. If you we don't let you have something you want, watch out.

Because of this, you have been introduced to the time out this last month. You hate them, but they definitely help to calm you down.

You always ask for milk and water and the same time. You need a cup of each.

You love to make us laugh, and you love watching videos of yourself laughing.

You love to run, and when you do, you pump your arms back and forth and your little shoulders push up to your ears.

You love babies. The last few times you've met one, you ask to hold them and you are so, so gentle with them.

I can't get enough of your eyelashes.

You say "hi" and wave to anyone walking by our house.

You are a talking machine! You can communicate just about everything you need to. And, you can officially say your name. "Callum" was a tough one!

I love watching you play with your friends. You guys have finally started to play with each other, instead of just next to each other. You also know how to drive them crazy when you want to, such as taking a toy from them you only want because they do.

My life is better because you're in it. I love you more than you'll ever know, Callum. Here's to another amazing year as your momma.

A trip to Milwaukee's Boerner Botanical Gardens

Last Tuesday, Callum and I met up with Keila from Mommy in Milwaukee and her adorable boys for an afternoon at Milwaukee's Boerner Botanical Gardens. You guys. This place is a total Milwaukee gem, and I feel like it is so often forgotten about. I probably haven't been there in 20 years, which is crazy, because everything about this place is amazing. The whole time we were there it was just one breath-taking view after another.

Admission to the gardens is free the first Tuesday of every month, which was our main motivation for going. I love me some free stuff. The day turned out to be exceptionally warm, and it was also the first day of school for most of the kids in Southeastern Wisconsin, so the place was basically empty. Our boys were able to run around and just be toddlers. They had a blast checking out all the fish in the fountains, and Keila and I had a great time snapping photos while also trying to make sure the kids didn't pick every flower in sight or fall into the water. It was a success on all fronts.

The gardens close for the season in October, so get there while you can. And, don't forget your camera.

Boerner Botanical Gardens: we will back soon. Very, very soon.

What it feels like to be a mom

Can't. Even. Handle six-month-old Callum.

One of my favorite people in the whole world is expecting her first child this November. I get so excited for her thinking about what lies ahead. We've had many conversations about becoming a mother, but I've found it so hard to really explain what being a mom feels like. You can try to describe the insane and overwhelming feelings you experience after having a baby, but there really is no way to get the point across. You have to feel it. 

After thinking about it quite a bit, I've decided there are a few words that really just exemplify motherhood for me. Some I expected, and some caught me totally off guard. There are literally thousands more, but here are a few that stand out.

LOVE

Now, this is an obvious one. But, love is not even a strong enough word to describe the feeling. I Googled "a word stronger than love" and the best answer I found was to "just put it in all caps." Obvi.

Since, I'm still not sure using LOVE will do the job, I'll leave you with this: You will love your child deeper and harder than anything else you've ever loved before. Thinking about it will bring you to tears every. single. time. It is unreal.

All-Encompassing

When your baby is born, that baby becomes your life. The feeling of being needed can be a great thing, but it can also be an extremely difficult thing. Your baby needs care all day, everyday. So, if you (and your partner) are taking care of your baby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, when do have time to take care of yourself?

I think one of the hardest things is finding that balance between being a mom and being whatever else you may want to be: a friend, a wife, a runner, a professional, and all the other things you want for yourself.  Which brings me to my next feeling:

Guilt

This is one that caught me totally off guard. I had no idea all the things I'd feel guilty about after becoming a mother. I know how important it is to take time for myself. To meet up with friends. To take date nights. To just run errands without little hands grabbing at me. But, every time I leave Callum behind, I feel guilty about it.

I've also many a time done the wrong thing (in hindsight) as a mom, and have felt ridiculously guilty about it afterwards. I've watched Callum fall and get hurt. I've raised my voice when I shouldn't have. I've let him cry it out when he wasn't feeling well and needed to be snuggled. And, when I've realized I may have done the wrong thing, I feel like crap about it. This is where friends come in. You will need them to remind you that it really is not that bad and your child is not scarred for life or destined to be an axe murder. Probably, anyways.

Exhausting

This is another one I didn't quite understand. I had no idea how flippin' tired I would be as mom. There's the newborn stage where no one sleeps ever. There's the baby stage where no one sleeps ever. There's the toddler stage where no one sleeps ever. Don't worry. You'll get used to it. If you are ever unsure about how to help a new mom, just offer to watch her newborn for a few hours while she takes a nap. You will be a hero.

Protective

You mess with my baby and I will dive bomb your head like a mama bird. That's basically it. Hurt my kid and you will pay.

There are also times when your baby is hurting and there's nothing you can do about it. When Callum was about six-months-old, he needed blood drawn. The phlebotomist taking his blood had a difficult time finding one of Callum's veins and had to poke him several times. It was miserable. Callum was screaming. He was scared. He was hurting. I would've done absolutely anything in that instance to take his pain away and make him feel better. Anything.

Uncertainty

You will question every single decision you make as a mom, doesn't matter how small or large. It is beyond important to do your best to trust in your natural abilities as a parent. You know your child better than anyone else in the world. There is no one more equipped to make decisions about their life than you.

Rewarding

Although the hardest job in the world, it is also one of the most rewarding. There is nothing quite like hearing your baby say "mama" for the first time, or watching their eyes light up when you enter a room. Despite all the difficult moments, and there will be many, there is nothing better in the world.

When you need to be reminded of that, give me a call. I'll be here for a pep talk.

If you could describe what it feels like to be a mom (or dad) in one word, what word would that be?

Thoughts on having another baby

Newborn Callum.

I'm not even sure where to start with this post. I should probably begin with this: I am not pregnant.

Alright, now that we've got out of the way, let's continue.

Do we want to have more kids? Yes. Absolutely. Without a doubt. We can't wait to expand our family.

I think about having another baby and my heart just explodes. Not just with love and wanting, but also with fear and guilt. Can I handle two kids? Will Callum feel less loved when we add a new baby to the family? How can I love another human as wholly and completely as I love Callum?

To me, Callum is perfect. I wouldn't change a thing about him. Even when he's screaming and whining, I can't get enough of him. I have a feeling all parents feel this way about their kids. But, I can't help but wonder, will I feel this way about our next child? How can someone else be just as perfect as Callum? It just doesn't seem possible. There's no doubt in my mind that another child will be a totally different person than Callum. So, is it possible that they'll just be a different type of perfect?

I also think about how much I cherish my one-on-one time with Callum. I try to give him as much undivided attention as possible. When another baby comes along, the time I'll have to spend with Callum, and only Callum, will be much less than now. I feel ridiculously guilty about that.

Having another baby also means having a newborn. And that's some scary shit. Newborns are no joke. I need to prepare myself again for that overwhelming amount of exhaustion. I've managed that before, and, despite all of the craziness, I loved it. But, I've never managed that while also being a mom to another child. I'm worried being that tired, while trying to parent, will make me far less patient with Callum.

On the other hand, there's no doubt in my mind that Callum is meant to have siblings. Despite his moments of not wanting to share, he loves being around other kids. In fact, on some days, I'm pretty sure the word "Ollie" comes out of his mouth more than "Mama." Callum would make an amazing big brother.

Before Callum was born, I had no idea I could love something as much as I love my son. The magnitude of it is unreal. As much as I enjoy date nights or going out with the girls, I just feel incomplete without him in my arms.

And, just like I was without a clue about what being a mom actually felt like, I have a sneaking suspicion I'm just as clueless about becoming a mom again. Yes, I'm scared. Yes, I doubt myself. I have a feeling that's only natural.

But, there's one thing I know for sure: There's more than enough space in my arms for another child and I can't wait to fill it. One day.

When things don't go as planned

I was looking forward to this past weekend for months. My sister-in-law (Matt's sister), Dana, was getting married in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. Matt and I were both taking time off of work to spend a few days up north to enjoy the wedding and lots of time with family.

We had a great time! Dana looked stunning. Rob (the groom) was handsome as could be. The ceremony and reception site (Lake Wissota Golf Course) was breathtaking. And, to top things off, Callum was a champ! He was up way past his bedtime multiple nights in a row, slept good in the hotel, and was a dancing machine the night of the wedding.

Dana and Callum at the wedding reception.

However, there was one small hiccup. Thursday morning, Callum woke up with a case of the pukes. There's really no other way to put it. He seemed in great spirits, but just could not keep any food down. He would want to eat, and then whatever he ate would come right back up. We put him down for an early nap, hoping he would sleep it off.

Sure enough. He woke up after his nap and was doing great. That evening was the rehearsal dinner (all three of the Olson's were in the wedding party). Rehearsal went just fine, and we all enjoyed a great dinner and a few drinks after. 

Family picture from the rehearsal dinner.

The morning of the wedding, we all woke up beyond excited for the day's activities. My day started early with a hair appointment with the bride and the rest of the bridesmaids. Then, professional makeup. (Side note: We did the airbrushed makeup. I was a little apprehensive about spending the money, but holy cow. It was amazing. Definitely worth it.)

I got back to the hotel, where Matt and Callum were hanging out, to find a super sick husband. He caught the pukes. He was doing his best to rest up before the wedding, but things weren't looking good. 

We all finished getting ready and were off to the ceremony. The drive there, it hit me. It couldn't be, I thought. No way was I getting it, too.

I'm sure you're on the edge of your seats wondering what happened next, so I'll cut to the chase: I got it, too. As the night went on, I was only feeling worse. I tried to hack it as long as I could, but I didn't make it much past 8. "Have a beer!" someone said. "Just eat something. You'll feel better," said another. But, unfortunately, the thought of either of those things was enough to make me ralph all over the wedding cake.

I hung out for the grand march, the first dances, and a little bit of time on the dance floor, but I was only feeling worse. (Thankfully, both Matt and Callum were feeling better at this point.)

My brother, Andy, and Callum. Can't even handle the toddler swag.

I was so, so disappointed. I missed the late night dancing (by far the best part of the wedding). I didn't catch up with all the family and friends that live in different cities. I couldn't stomach the cake, let alone an open bar. I had my hair, nails, and makeup done.

Hair done. Nails did. Everything big!

Anyone? No, okay. Moving on.

I ended up back at the hotel sleeping it off. I was just too beaten.

The next morning, I still woke up feeling like garbage. I caught up with Matt on all the exciting happenings from the night before, and it turned out the pukes knocked a few more people out, including the bride! I guess Dana left the wedding shortly after I did.

So, thanks, Callum for being a little bioterrorist and unleashing your wrath upon the wedding. I guess there's always Dana's next wedding.

Just kidding! I don't see Rob going anywhere. Those two are just too perfect together.

Everyone was able to hold it together for all the pictures. I'll be sure to share those when I have them.

A day in the life with a toddler

6:00: Wake up. Think about getting up to make some coffee, let the dogs out, and begin to get my day together before Callum wakes up.

6:15: Still thinking about getting up while scrolling through Instagram.

6:30: Still thinking …

6:45: Crap. Callum's awake. Now I have to get up.

7:30: Breakfast. The only thing Callum ever wants to eat these days is cereal. I ignore his requests, and give him eggs, avocado, and banana. He feeds most of it to the dogs.

7:45: Callum's eating cereal.

8:00 - 10:00: Play time around the house. Despite the bazillion toys in our living room, a roll of toilet paper and the dog kennel are the only things that manage to keep him occupied for more than ten minutes.

10:30 - 11:30: Play group. I spend the whole hour stopping Callum from snatching toys from other kids. Waiting his turn is not something he's mastered yet.

11:45 - Quick lunch of PB&J and a smoothie once we get home. If you were listening to our lunch time conversation, this is what you would hear:

"Cereal. Cereal. Cereal."

"You had cereal this morning, Callum. We can't just eat cereal all day. Sorry, bud."

"Cereal. Cereal. Cereal. Cereal."

Noon: Nap time. Glorious nap time.

12:00 - 2:00: Prep dinner. Mow the lawn. Do some laundry. Workout. Change my mind about the workout since mowing the lawn totally counts. Pick up the disaster area that is our play room.

2:01: Sit down to read my book (The Glass Castle. It's so good!) with an iced coffee.

2:02: Callum wakes up. Never fails.

2:15: Snack time. ("No cereal!")

3:30: Pick up Legos for the 1,213 time today.

4:00: Matt's home! We all sit outside with the dogs and talk about our days. Callum babbles like crazy. This is always, always, always the favorite part of my day.

5:30: Dinner time. Callum has been boycotting his high chair about half the time, and this is one of those meals. This is generally a battle I don't fight since I'd prefer for us to enjoy our meal together, despite where we're sitting. Callum eats his dinner standing on a dining room chair. ("NO CEREAL!")

6:00: Bath time. Callum loves playing with the water as it comes out of the faucet. But, look out. Once the tub is filled and we have to turn the water off, we have one unhappy toddler on our hands.

The second we are done with bath time, Callum knows we're getting ready for bed and immediately requests his pacifier, or "ne ne" as he calls it. He likes to have one in his mouth, and hold up to four in his hands. Like many kids use a blankie or stuffed animals for comfort, Callum uses his ne nes.

King of the Ne Nes.

6:30: PJs and story time. We read 10 Fat Turkeys, the current book obsession. "More," says Callum. We read 10 Fat Turkeys, again. "More," says Callum. We read 10 Fat Turkeys, again. "More," says Callum. I pull the plug on 10 Fat Turkeys and deal with the aftermath as we finish our bedtime routine.

7:00: Callum's in bed. He does a great job of settling in to bed and goes to sleep without a peep 90% of the time, which we are very grateful for. I think we can thank his ne ne for that.

After Callum goes to bed, I pack lunches for tomorrow, run the pups to the park for a game of ball, take a shower, and then basically just relax.

10:00: I'm in bed with my book and can't keep my eyes open for too long. Another day's done.

As unbelievably exhausting and often frustrating the days can be, I wouldn't trade them for anything. The toddler stage is full of surprises. He is always looking for ways to be more independent and is soaking everything up like a little sponge. I'm relishing every snuggle I can get. The days are long, but the years are short. Before I know it, I'll be waving good bye as he drives off to college.

The most amazing thing about being a mom

Last Christmas, "Santa" brought Callum a Strider bike. If you're unfamiliar, Strider bikes, or other balance bikes, are peddle-less and supposed to be better than training wheels at preparing kids to ride actual bicycles. At the time, he was not even a little bit interested in it. The box that it came in was the clear present. Obvi.

Fast forward to a few months ago. The weather was warming up. We were spending more time outside. And Callum was watching mom and dad ride their bikes. He was now all about it. He jumped on the Strider, and it was clearly too tall for him. We had the seat as low as it would go, but my little peanut's feet could barely touch the ground. It looked really uncomfortable.

Since then, I've encouraged him to get back on it every few weeks to check if he's tall enough. Callum will jump back on, and before we can even move, goes in to total melt down mode until I lift him off. He's even watched a few of his taller friends give it try, which inevitably leads to him wanting to try again, which inevitably leads to a melt down. So, we have had zero success with this dang balance bike since we bought it for him.

Until yesterday that is.

I asked him if he wanted to give his bike a try. After an excited "Yes," I held my breath, anticipating the screams, while I helped him climb on. 

Then, nothing. No complaining. No tears. Callum was on the bike and he was ok with it! Surely there would be an issue once we started moving.

I stood behind him and helped him walk the bike along. I stopped after a few feet to see his reaction. Immediately, he requested "More, more, more." Callum was loving it! We spent the next 45 minutes walking the bike up and down the driveway. The only screaming pains were coming from my poor back.

I was so thrilled! Callum had finally been able to ride his Strider. Matt got home and it was all Callum could talk about. He kept saying "bike" between the rest of his toddler gibberish. It was hilarious.

These moments are my favorite thing about being a mom. There is nothing like watching your child experience something for the first time. It almost makes me feel as if I'm "riding" my first bike.

I remember being a kid and learning to hold my breath underwater, or tying my shoe for the first time, and that insane sense of accomplishment I had. I wanted to shout it from the roof top. My parents were always celebrating these achievements with me, as small as they may be.

As you get older, these celebratory firsts become few and far between. Let's be real. The first time you file your taxes is not exactly an exciting moment. I want to do my best to really appreciate all the firsts that Callum comes across in his life. And, I want to make it my job as his mom to expose him to as many as possible.

Now, off to teach Callum to give his first back rub.