Silly Goose

Yep, that is my toaster cover on Reese's head as she stands at the kitchen counter. 

Reese knows how to spell her name!  The only letter she can recognize is R. ("R for Reese" she says whenever she sees an R anywhere.)  But she knows how to spell her name.  We have also been working on what letters make what sounds and she has the letter P down!  She is recognizing more and more letters!  It is so awesome to watch her learning and she gets so excited when she gets a question right that she usually asks me to ask her again.  She really does amaze me everyday with how smart she is!

Visitors!

Aunt Emily and Stacey flew into town last Thursday.  We picked them up from the airport after preschool.  Reese was "a little shy of Stacey" at the beginning but then just loved having them at our house.  We had a little accident and a hard time going down for a nap but I know Reese loved seeing Aunt Emily.

Emily brought an Angelina Ballerina board game which couldn't have been more perfect.  Reese gets to practice her dance moves and get trophies for it!  She definitely was born with the rhythm in her bones.

Emily couldn't have picked a more beautiful weekend!  It was warm and sunny.  We went out to my Aunt Karen's house on Sunday for a wonderful lunch, playing outside, a book ready by Stacey, a fun nap on an air matress, a new hair-do, and a great dinner.  It was really hard for Reese because she didn't want to leave but thankfully Karen sent us home with a couple brownies so that helped to distract Reese. 

Sick

Reese called me into her room at 3am and said her stomach hurt.  She was hot and ended up throwing up, thankfully in the toilet.  We moved to the couch where she watched an episode of Caillou and I tried to get comfortable for the rest of the night on the love seat.  She slept in until 8am and had a fever of 100 when she woke up.  I decided that today would be her first sick day so I called her into school and of course the minute I did that she perked up and was eating Cheerios. 

I ended up taking her into work for a couple hours so that I could answer a couple of requests and get training on a new copier function that I will need to teach my volunteers.  Thankfully, it was Tuesday and the Library was closed but a couple staff members stopped by and she met a couple of my volunteers.  She had everyone wrapped around her little finger.

Lunch and naptime went well.  Then of course I got an optical migraine for about a hour so a tried to function while being partially blind.  We did video chat with Uncle Kent for his birthday today.  There was lots of snuggling, movies and coloring. 

I am learning how this whole taking care of a sick person other than myself works.  I get nervous and my worrying kicks in.  Will that ever go away?

Little Miss Independent

Everything Reese does these days she says "I can do it!"  She can go potty all by herself (she does have a hard time pumping the soap), she can get dressed by herself (she does have troubles with her shirt sometimes), she can open the doors and climb in her carseat.  It is hard for me to back off and let her do things but it is so awesome to see how big she is getting.  Last night we were finishing up in the bathtub and she was ready to get out.  She of course said "I can do it" so I let her get of the the tub without holding my hand.  She then stood dripping wet, butt naked on the rug with her hands on her hips like Peter Pan until I wrapped a towel around her.  I could here her inner monologue saying "I am Reese, hear me roar!"  I couldn't stop laughing and of course she had no idea why. 

Mardi Gras

Happy Mardi Gras! 
Today is Reese and my first Tuesday evening together since she arrived in Arizona.  I have been attending PS-MAPP (Foster parent training) every Tuesday and Thursday evening since Reese arrived and completed the training last Thursday evening after ten sessions.  It was hard to leave her twice a week but I did learn a lot and enjoyed being with people who had some of the same struggles that I have. 

We had dinner with the Wazny's tonight.  My mom sent me a subscription of Disney's Family Fun magazine and they had some fun Mardi Gras recipes.  So, I thought I would try making shrimp etouffe!  It was served over rice, was super easy and good. 

I had to share this picture of the girls eating at the county because of Charlotte's face.  Too funny!

After dinner we came home and took a quick bath, had some ice cream and played a game of Candyland.  I finally won!  Of course, Reese chose Fox in Sox for me to read tonight.  That book is the biggest tongue twister ever.  It was really a great night.

Sustainability

I hope everyone understood that the daily blogging was not sustainable.  I do want to remember every minute but real life is kicking in and midnight is coming quicker and quicker every night. 

Reese painted with shaving cream in the bathtub the other night and loved it.  My tiles have never sparkled so much.

Boo received the "Aunt Lindsey timeout treatment" the other day.  Reese made her Boo doll sit on the timeout bench for supposedly kicking me.  She then asked if she was done being upset and ready to have a little talk about why she was in timeout.  She then brought Boo over for her to apologize to me and give me a hug.  It was nice to see that she understands the process and has decided to use it with her kids :) 

President's Day

Happy President's Day!

I love that Reese and I have today off!  A four day week work/preschool week is was we needed for our second week of reality.

Reese and I picked up Debbie this morning and headed over to Encanto Park to see the ducks, play on the slides and have a picnic.  It was a beautiful day and we had a great time.  We didn't ride any of the rides at Enchanted Island today but I know that we will in the future.  We really didn't need it today!

After nap time (a snooze), we played outside.  I realized that I didn't have any pictures of the two of us since Reese moved to AZ so here you go!  Do I look older?  I feel older...

Prinner was a hit for dinner then we looked at an atlas to see where all of our loved ones lived around the country.  Reese beat me twice at Candyland and is understanding the process of board games.  I am looking forward to game nights in our house!

Allison's visit

With the first week of preschool and work under our belts, the best thing that could have happened this weekend was a visit from Aunt Allison. 

Reese and I headed out to retirement after ballet class on Saturday.  Reese rocked her Purdue shirt which Allison was excited about.  This is the only picture I got and it doesn't do the day justice.  We rode in the golf cart to the park where Reese ran around and had a great time.  Steak was a big hit at dinner which means that I need to learn how to cook steak.  We had movie night because Allison brought Lady and the Tramp.  As soon as it started, Reese stopped her playing and sat down in front of the TV.  It was adorable.  We stayed the night there, which was our first night away from home. 

I didn't want to leave because it was so good to be around family.  I need that and I know Reese loved it too.  She was glad to be home on Sunday afternoon.  I then prepped for a grocery store run.  It took an hour to get my list together but it was worth it because I ended up saving 48% of my total bill.  It helped that Karen gave me a $25 off coupon but I felt like a rock star after check out.  Grocery shopping has become an art form.  I look forward to refining my skills, maybe I will be on Extreme Couponing!

Blah

Reese's Valentine's Day project from school.  Now decorating her bedroom door.

Tonight is my last foster care training so I made pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.  As much as I am looking forward to not having to be in class twice a week or the nightmares I always had after class (we talked about some tough topics).  I will miss being around people who have had some of the same struggles, frustrations and victories. 

Happy Valentines Day

Reese had a tea party at school today to celebrate Valentines Day.  They used real china and teapots.  All the kids were asked to dress up and they had finger cakes and cookies.  I know Reese had a good time because she had food all over her face when I picked her up.  She had a bag of valentines that we brought home and went through. 

My dad sent Reese and I beautiful flowers!  They are a perfect centerpiece for our table.  Reese thought we were very fancy.

More surprises!  Annie sent us a wonderful package of books and stickers and lots of love. 

This morning at the breakfast table, Reese turned to me and said "It's Valentines Day?  But you didn't make me a valentine."  My response was "Well, you didn't make me one."  But of course in that moment, the guilt began so I popped by CVS after I dropped her off at school.  When she woke up from her nap, I had a card, beanie baby bear and some bubbles.  She was so excited and kept thanking me.  It was really worth it.  I love that I am going to be able to spend all my holidays with her!

First Day of School

Yesterday was the first day of preschool!  We have started with half days so that I can finish my foster parent training and she can get used to school.  I was so nervous but the morning went very smoothly and she even ate a waffle!  We went in to school and I almost forgot to sign her in because I was so nervous.  I gave her a hug and kiss then went over to the book and when I turned around she was gone.  She had gone out to the playground with the other students! 

Mrs. Milli is an aide in her class who helps with the mornings so Reese just went right along with her.  I am glad that there is someone with her that she knows.  When I picked her up, her teacher said she only told her once that she missed Aunt Lindsey and that she did really well.  She only a half of a half of her peanut butter sandwich at lunch and she said that she didn't go potty but she had no accidents so I was happy. 

It was nice for me to be back to work.  It is nice to be in a familiar place where I know what I am doing.  The Library looks great and it was so nice to see my coworkers.  I was really nervous about being a working mom because my mother stayed at home with us but I get it now.  I have worked so hard for this career and I love that I am not giving it up.  It is something that I love and I know that I will be a better mother because I have a fulfilling career.  At a time when so much has changed and is changing, I am glad that the Museum is there to be a constant and give me that reassurance that in time this will feel like normal.

Rookie Mistake

Well, not really.  If you have ever met me before, you probably know that if I lay down on a couch then I am going to fall asleep.  No matter what, I will fall asleep and I know that but still do it.  So even though I had the best of intentions for getting things done tonight, instead I overdosed on fig goat cheese and laid down on the couch.  Thankfully, I woke up at 10pm instead of 2am so I was able to shower and get a couple things done. 

Preschool went well today! Due to my rookie mistake, I am going to have to fill you in tomorrow.  I'm having a hard time keeping my eyes open.

Last day of getting acquainted...

Good Morning! 

Yesterday and today included a number of video chats with Sophia, who spent the night at my dad's house.  I know that Reese was looking forward to seeing her because we talked about Sophia a lot.  She has started walking which is so awesome to see.  It is very drunken sailor and her hair is adorable.  I know that Reese and I both miss Sophia, hopefully we can start video chatting more.

The highlight of today was washing the car.  Reese was so excited to help!  She kept saying "I can't believe it..." and I would say "You can't believe what?" She would reply, "How fun this is!"  I just kept thinking that she wouldn't be thinking that if we drove an SUV.  She of course was soaked by the end but I can see out of my car again so I am happy.

We decorated valentines for school today and then Reese found the finger paints.  I have two masterpieces drying on my counter right now. 

Reese starts half-day preschool tomorrow and I head back to work while she is there.  My hands are sweating I'm so nervous.  I have everything laid out and ready to go, with a bag to go to school and a bag to go to work.  I know that she will do great and really it is four hours but I cannot seem to shake these nerves.  When I put Reese to bed, I told her what was going to happen while she is at school, like play on the playground then talk about the calendar and read a book, then snack-time and so forth.  She asked me to repeat it three times.  I think she is a little nervous too.  I hate that this time for us to spend together is over but I know that she will love the independence that preschool gives her and I know I will enjoy the sense of accomplishment and adult interaction that work gives me.  We are just going to have to find our new routine.  I hope I can sleep tonight and that I don't cry all day tomorrow.  Fingers crossed.

Children's Museum of Phoenix

Amy and I took Reese and Charlotte to the Children's Museum of Phoenix this morning.  It was so nice when we got there because it was quiet.  Reese loved it!  There are play houses and a grocery store.  A place to make forts and the noodle forest.  Reese was bummed that we didn't get to climb on the giant climber because it became crazy busy as the day went on.  A couple of school groups came in and that was the sign that we need to leave.  Reese really enjoyed the Museum and I know she will enjoy going back.

Reese then had the biggest tantrum that I have ever experienced on the way home.  It was awful for everyone involved and took her a long time to calm down.  We spent the rest of the day at home being quiet.  We watched Monster's Inc. and had a dance party after dinner.  Dance class again tomorrow!

Classroom visit

Reese and I began yesterday by visiting Reese's preschool classroom.  Mrs. Casey was very nice and inviting and Reese did a great job.  We participated in the morning roll call and calendar, then an All About Me for a student, snack time, then some time on the playground.  I am feeling better because I know what her days will look like and Reese is very excited about starting school.  She got really upset when we had to leave because her class was going inside to make pancakes.  We had to go home and make a paper-chain so that we could count down the days until she goes back to school. 

We played outside after her nap yesterday while drinking a smoothie and oops, we spilled!  I got out the hose out to wash it off and should have known it would turn into a big mess.  Reese had a blast splashing.  I loved her little footprints!

Scooby Dooby Doo

Today was a great day.  Just an average day, really, but it felt great.  We playing with the little people and had a home visit with our AZ case manager.  She arrived while we were setting up the little people wedding.  Bella, Trudy and Santa were in attendance.  We ate our lunch standing at the kitchen counter, Reese on the step-stool, and talked then played outside for a bit before naptime.  We have borrowed a little tricycle from Amy that automatically pedals and Reese has really gotten the hang of it.  It is so awesome seeing her just pedal down the drive way.  She has a hard time getting going but with a little shove, she is on her way.  At dinner we were talking about letters and sounds they make and Reese wanted to do these little flashcards that spell out three-letter words and shows a picture of the word when you put them together.  I was pronouncing the sounds for each letter and Reese was not understanding why I was doing that.  She didn't realize that I was sounding out a word and then all of a sudden, it clicked.  I cheered and she was so excited that she had to give me a hug.  It was really a fun moment and boosted my self esteem for teaching her things. 

I always want to be taking Reese places, showing her things and giving her experiences but the days I love most are the quiet ones at home.  The ones where we just play outside and she listens well, where there are lots of hugs and giggles. 

It was also a Scooby Doo day.  Thankfully, Aunt Kathy bought Reese the Christmas Scooby Doo DVD because today it was all she wanted.  After bathtime she asked to watch the same episode twice.  I need to check to see if Scooby Doo is available on netflix.

Why did I think I wanted to see Drive?  I didn't mind the two hours of Ryan Gosling but seriously, what was I thinking.  It was violent and gory.  I don't even think I read the synopsis when I added it to my netflix list.  Now I am having to watch some Big Bang Theory so that I don't have nightmares.  Maybe I should take a look at my queue.

The Stove that Craigslist Bought

Yesterday was a day of introducing Reese to friends and coworkers.  We started out the day with a trip to Chandler's Sunset Public Library, where I interned last summer.  We attended Micah's family story-time, which I used to give with him.  Reese was a little shy but that was to be expected because a couple of staff members stopped us on the way in and were excited to meet her.  She did love when Micah read a book, it was the dancing that she as not crazy for.  Weird, I know.

They have remodeled Sunset since I worked there and it was fun to see all the changes and bright new colors.  Reese liked the elephants in the kids area!

Yesterday evening, Amy had a "Welcome Reese to Arizona" Happy Hour.  A couple of friends and coworkers were able to come and it was great to see the people that I am so used to seeing every day and let them meet Reese.  She was crazy for my friend Debbie's fiance, Jesse, who played with her and the Wazny girls all night.  She had to wear a fancy dress and did really well playing!  I had a glass of wine, some great food and much needed conversation.  It was really wonderful to have everyone together.  I have always known how important my coworkers are to me but this break and big change in my life are a good reminder how much I value them. 

I know that I can never repay Amy for all of her support, friendship and kindness that she has given me since we became friends.  I truly have no idea if I could do all of this without her friendship.  I am forever indebted to her and her family.  Once again, she went above and beyond.  Thank you!

Reader's Digest and Honeys

Potty Training update: Reese is making big strides!  She can now go into the bathroom and do everything by herself.  She does need a little step-stool and sometimes she cannot get the soap to pump.  The other day I was in the shower and jumped out of my skin when I heard the toilet lid close.  Reese had come in and used the potty all by herself!  This morning she wanted me to come in with her but then didn't need my help at all.  I love when she needs her "piracy" aka privacy and I have to leave and close the door, "all the way!"  She was taking a while yesterday so I peaked my head in and she was just sitting there reading a Reader's Digest. I couldn't stop laughing.  Needless to say, she is fitting into my lifestyle perfectly :)

Today has been a quiet day around here.  We had a pretend yellow baby monster visit this morning, that I ended up carrying around for longer than I would like to admit.  Then, Reese was riding her "honeys" around the backyard on a tricycle.  I am not sure what they are but she kept talking to them and when it was time to come in she had to keep running out to the grass to get them. 

My neighbors have a drum set in their garage, which I am not a huge fan of.  Today they were playing while Reese and I went out to feed the cats.  Reese looked over and said "You're hurting my ears, neighbors."  Then just went back to her business.  It is exactly what I have wanted to say to them and she just put it out there.  I love her!

Ballet Class

Reese began going to ballet class yesterday at Devonshire Community Center.  She was SO excited and did such a good job.  I was very proud of her.  When we were getting ready to go, she said that she wanted me in the class and I told her that I didn't know if I would be able to.  She just kept insisting that I could but once we got there she was so brave.  We went in, signed her in, put her shoes on, she gave me a kiss and was perfectly happy seeing me go into the lobby to wait for her.  It is a half hour class with Miss Susan.  She said her favorite part was jumping over the dog :)

I am so excited to be able to give her this experience.  It is only a four week session and the last class I get to attend to see all that she has learned.  I cannot wait!!

Movies

"Let's go already"

Amy and I took the girls to the movies yesterday to see Beauty and the Beast in 3D!  It was Reese's first time at the movies and she was very excited. 

Friends

She did an amazing job for the first 45 minutes and then it started to go downhill.  We had to go to the bathroom and then she wouldn't wear the glasses.  Afterwards she wanted to run in the theater like a banshee which I was not a big fan of.  She was so excited by seeing Steamboat Willie in 3D, she turned to me and said "it is coming at me."  I really enjoyed watching her and seeing her reactions.  I love that this was her first movie experience!