Choosing reading books for infant and toddlers (newborn - 2-3 yrs. old)

Listening to you read, cuddling next to you or your partner, fidgeting, even leaving the room are all part of a child's sense of wonder. Their immersion into reading is auditory. Allow them to listen to you. They love to hear you speak.

Choosing books to read can be fun. Even if you hated to read growing up. Or even if you have never actually read an entire book before, don't allow your past to stop your little ones from developing a love of reading.

I've seen people who claimed to have never read a single book; declare they will "Read 10 (children) books tonight!!!" With that kind of emphasis. It can happen for you or someone you know, too! 

Hopefully these tips will help you choose books for your baby, infant or toddler.

Sensory books:

Books with sensory (touch) and auditory (hearing) enhancements are great starting points. The baby will probably not let you read them but will want to turn pages and feel the fabric, synthetic fibers and crinkling paper. Try reading the book, but know that just providing them with a book and your time, gives them happiness beyond measure.

Black and white books:

Since babies don't see clearly or all colors until about 4 months old, these types of books help children focus on the object and have fun reading while still being young. 

Board books:

These types of books are awesome! They let kids be kids! They wont be easily damaged. They are thick and will last longer than a regular paper book in the hands of a toddler. Children will eventually find ways to pick at corners and destroy books. Honestly, the way I see it, it's them exploring. To me that in-itself is the beginnings of reading. I'm not saying to allow them to tear them up, but also, don't get mad if they do. It's just how they read. Let them know it's not OK to hurt books and eventually they will get it.

You can find great board books at Marshalls, Ross, Goodwill (second hand store). Target and Walmart also have some available. If you prefer to shop online, Amazon, Barnes and Noble offer ways to shop from home. Choose board books that peak your interest and start from there.

Flap Books:

By Age 1 to 1 1/2, your child may be interested in these books. With your help, they'll have fun discovering what is behind the flap. 

Indestructables: 

Books that won't tear and can be hand washed. Kids can chew on the, ball them up and they last. The books do curl, but with some bending they come back to shape. I have two of these books and my two year old enjoys the large, colorful drawings. 

When to read?

Whenever you have the time. It can be traditional bedtime, 5, 10 minutes, or more of reading. Or it can come when you come home, after dinner. The beauty of reading is that it can occur at any time. Spontaneous! It can involve one, or many. Fill your home with reading and you will see a flourishing you never imagined. You'll be proud to call your baby a reader.


Have a beautiful time reading,

Kathy 

***Links are only intended as examples. 

Count your blessings

Staying at home with my children has put a financial strain on us. At times I question my choices. But, over five years later, and having gone through all my savings, I think it has been the best choice. It hasn't been easy, but my children don't see it. They live their lives, happily.

Two weeks ago I was grocery shopping. I had a strict budget. I had to choose between buying and not buying a box of tampons. It's the first time I have ever had to think about that. I looked at the prices. I looked at the absorbency. I thought about my budget. I almost thought about not getting them, and just figuring it out. Luckily, I put myself first and bought them. Leaving the grocery store with only cents in my account is something many families go through. It is something that is happening more often to me. A new normal that I have to work with and strive to change. I'm trying to budget more. Really look at the items I am purchasing. I'm good with saving and budgeting, but food prices and gas prices really hit hard when they fluctuate.

I only write about this so that we may think more about others that are going through difficult times. Choosing between personal hygiene and food is such a lonely feeling. You feel alone at that moment, deep in your thoughts. And when the total are coming in at checkout, I feel anxious. What if I go over? What do I pay with? What do I put back? Thankfully I haven't been there yet. I'll take .37 left in the bank anytime.

Today is my mom's birthday. We went out for breakfast with my parents, brother and Jazzy. Had a lovely time. Thankful that they are here. Thankful they care. Last night I was thinking about what to do with the kids this weekend. I figured we'd be hitting the parks, and a lot of counting my pennies to make it an enjoyable weekend for my children.

As we are saying good byes in the parking lot, my dad hands me money and says to me, "So you guys have a nice dinner somewhere." I cry because we don't have much, and this money helps with groceries and a sweet treat later this hot weekend.

Count your blessings, fam. Love your life. It may be shit sometimes, but little miracles happen. It may just be that butterfly flying by, or that bird poo that hits your right shoulder as you walk.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Kathy

Does your child want to go to school?

I don't mean to call anyone in particular out. Or hurt any feelings. This is tailored towards Elementary aged students, but can be tweaked depending on the grade.


If your child enjoys going to school and seems happy, then things are great. Just stay informed about their feelings towards school and their day to day.


You never want to dismiss your child not wanting to go to school. Talk to them and try to find out the problem. Get your child to open up about what is making them feel like school isn't fun, because it should be. It isn't fun and games, but structured learning, where your child feels welcomed to participate and enthusiastic to learn. Lacking those can put a child behind.
 
Of course, not all problems with children are that serious. It could also be that they miss you and would rather be with you. If so, hype up school and their teacher. A teacher will never replace a parent or guardian in their lives, it's OK for children to really care for their teachers. Teachers try to foster a sense of community in their classroom and work towards everyone enjoying each others company. It's part of what makes a good classroom work. I digress. Perhaps they just need to go to sleep earlier to feel more rested and less grumpy.

But, It could be a student issue, a playground issue, a food issue (they may dislike the food), or the teacher. I am not saying to give a child full reign and allow them to stay home, but I would investigate the situation. My first instinct is to write a note to the teacher. I recently wrote one regarding issues during recess time. Things seem to be going much better now. And the changes were almost immediate. If you would rather speak to someone, visit the school, morning can be hectic, so scheduling a visit by calling the office isn't a bad idea. Perhaps arrange a classroom visit so you can silently observe what is happening during lessons or during recess time.


These are just my ideas and classroom expectations.

Take care,

Kat

Today

Today I have been calmer, but, drum roll please....

I got upset about the disorder at home. That kinda sent into this spiral of frustration.

I leave it to see if it gets dealt with by any member of the family.

It doesn't. I've set myself up this way before.

Today's trigger was (oh mannnn) the play station remote and giant headphones being left out, on the couch. Jazzy got to them. She got a time out in her crib (with books and toys, and me thinking it's a "time out"). And I angrily began to power-clean the living room.

But back to me....(I'm revising this and I'm just ashamed)

Like, man! I gave you a bag, I asked you to put it away a multitude of times...

....

See, the thing is that this happens often. I set them up to fail.

Everyone is busy with their own lives, basically.

I'm the one at home and my enviroment is our chaos. It's hard for me to stay tidy the entire month. Around my ovulation and even during my period I go out of commission. It's the entire time, but a few days out of the month, I feel like I did yesterday. 

So I started to wash the dishes, put away MY clothes, the pettier part is coming, and put them on my bed to be put away later. The rest of the clothes? I just threw into the restroom and shut the door.

Shake your heads with me, noooooo.

I'll fix all that. Put things away, tidy up. Start dinner.

Today will be better than yesterday, better than the day before. I've often had one difficult day and then another but less, and so on. I'm trying to remind myself to not react. To think about what I am doing and to make the best choice. I'm lauging. It's not funny, just a resignation that I'm finally dealing with a big issue, that I thought I had more in control. I am not that person all the time, and with changes things will get better.

Hope everyone is doing lovely,

Kathy

Anger during Ovulation - PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Dysorder

Look. I'ma be real.

I always knew my periods were something else.

But I never knew when. Couldn't get the timing right.


Like my anger was so maddening. I would not be myself. I'm a happy person. I love to love. But I also have a dark side. Angry. Frustrated. Lashing out. When I was young, it was worse. It just felt like me. Always mad was the norm. I never got help for it when I was young. Just this week, my brother said to me, when you get mad, it's like the world ended.

I had to take a step back. And realize that I am no longer who he thinks I am.

Over time, you begin to grow (I am talking mental growth, not the years type, those years can come and go without any ACTUAL growth). It may take years, but you begin to see patterns in your life. I finally have.

I saw my anger pattern. The type of mad I was yesterday is not everyday. I was mad at my baby girl, she's an angel, and I know better, but yesterday I had to step away and be angry for a bit. Put her in her crib and feel.

Sometimes, in the midst, I can't stop it. I get angry. At stupid things.

My anger boiled over yesterday cus I was late to pick up my son from Kindergarten, and people wouldn't move. They were legit just oblivious to life, they were so into their conversations. And here I came, like a dog out of it's yard for the first time, on a mission to go. A bitch. I said I'd keep it real.

I got angry with my family too. Apologizing all the time, because the anger I felt was real. It clouded my judgement. Made me who I am not.

I cried and cried. What is wrong with me.

In the past, that anger would have lasted all day. But it didn't. Yesterday was a surprise, because I was that mad, it had been so long.

I was looking at my period tracker app. I was ovulating and yesterday and today were a huge rollercoaster.

...

After the birth of my son, I fell into deep depression, which I masked. I began this blog because of it.  I finally spoke to my doctor before the birth of my daughter in 2017. Although her treatment didn't work, I was able to see that it was not me. It was the hormones. I began to take a Vitamin B complex that does work, but I find isn't enough for me, because of yesterday, ugh.

Yesterday was tough. I cried. I screamed. I'm ashamed. I asked God why. Like, tf! this isn't fair....Llama doesn't like to...nevermind.


Ladies, it isn't you, its the hormones! I have premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) I have tracked my ovulation and period for three months and have found a pattern. I don't want to go to the doctor and be put on medication. I have done that to my body twice and have found myself in deeper darkness. But that is not to say medication wont work for others. You do not deserve to go through the anger or irritability. You deserve to shine the brightest you ever have. Today and always.

Take care,

Kat


P.S. Two reads on Premenstrual dysphoric disorder A and B
Both from American Family Physician a medical journal.

NoseFrida - Excellent add on to Baby Registry

It's the best. It is a great addition to your baby registry :)


In my opinion, the NoseFrida has helped relieve colds/flu sooner than without it. It helps children feel better by removing the mucus from their nose so they may breath better.

I think it has a learning curb, but for the most part, the first time I used it on my daughter she was curious about it. I would keep a light, yet firm hand on it, careful not to stab her nostrils. I also didn't want to inhale too fast, so not to scare care.  And I also moved it around to create a vacuum.

*Orange portion goes in your mouth.
*Gently suck in air.
*Mucus enters device.
*BLUE sponges prevent the virus from entering the air tube.
(Sponges are sold separately, but a few come with the purchase of the device, like above).


I am on my second nose friday in less than two years. It was a decision I took when looking at the mouthpiece and tube condition. The clear white tube was not attaching to the blue tube. I used tape to hold it together for a few months. I can be cheap.

It probably wont be a forever investment, but it will totally give you minutes, maybe hours of additional sleep (imagine the possibilities). Sleep.

Ok, guys, I'm off to Momville.

See ya!

Do you hear that Cruchy sound? (with links)

My daughter got sick. I'm laughing. It's predictable, yet I'm caught in a whirwind of wtf (what the fluff!!!!!). It's difficult to quarantine a five year old and an almost two year old. I turn around and he's squeezing her tight and she's squealing with delight.

She'll come up to him, right next to him, and of course, he has to shoo her away, spitting little particles with every shoo.

MY life :)


I remember taking her to urgent care last year. It was raining. We had taken Jazzy (her nickname) to the emergency room because she was having difficulty breathing. They called it Sea Saw Breathing. Her stomach was moving up and down quickly, too much for a one year old to take. I sat there holding her not knowing what would happen. My son was left in the care of grandma, while Dad and I took her in.

Jazzy was hooked up to a nebulizer with drops of albuterol,  which helped her breathing ease into a normal rhythm. Her fever was harder to break, but with a magical combo of Tylenol and Ibuprofen we were free to go home.

Our ER doctor gave us medicine for cough, and an inhaler.

Inhaler.

For a one year old.

Uffff.

So we get it all at the pharmacy, that has somehow turned into a liquor store, because the person helping us is behind bullet proof glass. It is 3am, so I suppose anything could happen.

The next day, administering the stupid inhaler is a joke. She can't take it. She still seems sick.

Kaiser calls.

They ask questions and ultimately ask us to come in. It's raining.

A pediatrician sees us this time.

She begins her exam, takes off her stethoscope and lets me hear Jazzy's lungs and asks, "Do you hear that crunchy sound?"

I say, "yes."

It turns she caught RSV. RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a common respiratory virus. It can be spread in the air (after a cough or sneeze) and direct contact. It commonly leads to hospital visits in children and older adults. I first heard of RSV the morning after going to the ER. My daughter was cheek swabbed at the hospital and the next day a nurse called to let us know it was RSV. 

A few minutes later we are asked to move to another room. The room had five medium sized nebulizer machines. The nurse hooks up Jazzy to a nebulizer. Jazzy screams. Hates the mouth pieces, rubs her eyes. She's tired. The medicine kicks in, but she's uncomfortable, ready to sleep.15 minutes later were done, she's calm after releasing her from the clutches of her savior.

After the treatment we are shown how to use a portable nebulizer, Pari, Go green!.

Insurance covered a large portion of the cost of the machine. It gave us tremendous peace of mind. I cried. The machine was not cheap, but worth what ever we needed to pay. You can find some machines for sale, much cheaper than what we would have payed for at Kaiser. But at the moment, who has time to wait for delivery...I would have used my savings, credit cards, asked for a helping hand. Anything to help my baby. Just like you <3

....

About a year later (like right now) Jazzy got sick again. She had her head on our bed, sad and coughing. I got on my knees, and leaned in to hear the back of her chest.

"She's smiling," my son yelled from the living room.  I briefly heard a crunchy sound. I turned her around, looked at her, gave her a kiss and told her, "It's time for a treatment." So I did, and I regretted it. It was too much for her. Her cheeks were flushed. Her heart was beating rapidly. Perhaps I had her on for too long.

One week later was Jazzy's two year checkup. She passed with flying colors. She's a healthy and happy two year old. I asked the pediatrician if he would recommend me using the nebulizer for her when she gets sick. He said, "No." That they gave her the machine because she likely had RSV. For common congestion I should run the hot shower and let the steam do it's magic. Duh, baby 101!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nothing prepares us for those sudden trips to the emergency room or urgent care, or the shitty diagnoses you may encounter, but we are strong and will remain so for our kids.

If you ever find yourself at an ER or at an urgent care, I wish you the best. Stay positive and be calm. Nothing brings more comfort that the touch of a loved one. You've got it. If your kiddo doesn't get better, call in for a follow up. Request a second opinion. I'm thankful Kaiser called. I may have waited too long, had they not.

Have a wonderful day!

Kat

Meal Planning - Updated

I posted with zero writing. Trippin'.

I'll make up for it ;)

I think meal planning can be tricky. 

It required rotation of meals (it doesn't have to, but if you live with more than two people, you should try to cater to their needs too), and the customization (even if small) of people's food preferences (When I make tuna I make two batches, one with Serranos and one that isn't spicy). Along with writing, and deal hunting (if you are game).

These are the simple steps I have taken to help me.

In this order:

1. I work one week at a time 

I still haven't found a system that allows me to work multi week. I don't have enough money to spend on more than a week, and I don't have the fridge space (I need a new fridge. Like last year).

2. What's in your fridge?

Ask yourself, that is the motivation to rise up and look. Things that are old, get tossed. A list of fruits and veggies on hand is a must. I have a dry erase sticker on my fridge where I write this list.
It will help you save money that week. Don't forget to check your pantry for canned goods you may need, but already have. 

3. Write Monday - Sunday on a paper, and look up the weather

Huh? Yeah! It may be autumn, but the sun is king in L.A. I plan my meals around the hotter days of the week. That will help me narrow down my food choices. So hot days, no oven! or soups, or a sweaty mother. Cold days, we eat what we want! Darn it!

4. Bring out my Dinner Idea List

It's written on my monthly planner. I'm always adding new meals. For example, not a meal, but a great find: Frozen Salmon isn't horrible. I wrote just that on there. So, it's part of our rotation from time to time. 

5. Write 5-6 dinner ideas (from my list) that I know my family will like

What about days 6-7, Kat? The rest we will either eat out, or I just don't know, and I'll make something up. 

6. Bring that list over to a new list (yayyyyy, lists : / )

This list is my, yet to be filled, grocery list.

7. Open up the Flipp app and/or visit grocery websites 

Flipp is an app that has some of my local grocery stores' Weekly ads ready for me too scrutinize.
Or I find the ads on their websites:

Aldi
Superior Grocers
Grocers outlet
Northgate Market

Example:

If my meal is Chicken Salad my list may look like this:

These are the ingredients I'll need for this meal

Chicken salad:

Head of lettuce

tomato

cucumber

cilantro

ranch dressing

onion

Chicken Thighs (6pk)

...I only write down what I don't have on hand. Don't buy doubles. 

Oh wait! I have onion, salad dressing and tomato, cross those out, money saved. 

8. Ignore the anxiety and buy your groceries. 

Hope this helps!! Bye for now,

Kathy

He got sick

My son made it to day 25 of school. Then day 25 hit and he got sick.

Like, my poor guy! Fever, sad, laying on the couch with a frowny face, sick.

Thankfully school was off on Monday, so weve made it to Thursday without staying home. He does not go to school with a fever, that would be horrible.

So here we are, almost FRIDAY!!

He has a cough now, a dry one. One day at a time.


Hope your week has been a good one.