The Stein family

2011 reflections

2012-01-29T16:10:00.001-08:00

My cousin, Lauren, is great about keeping up her blog. My stepmom, Lynn, is also. I just forget about it. Since I'm pregnant with Max's sibling, I thought I would try again. I know I will have some long nights ahead of me, so I might as well blog away! I'm on FB, Google+, and now Pinterest. Lauren posted all about 2011 and I keep thinking about our year last year. Unfortunately, my post will not be as light-hearted as hers.

2011 started off with a ton of snow! I was teaching third grade and definite about not returning in the fall. Having a busy husband and no family around caused me to make this decision, along with the fact that I felt like I was doing nothing well. I wasn't a great mom or teacher or wife. So, I left the classroom in June and amazed I made it to the end of the school year. In February, my principal died of lung cancer. This was just the beginning of several cancer deaths for us last year. He was a wonderful man and was always positive and encouraging. Max enjoyed being in school, but I definitely missed him with my mind on all my children even when I was at home. We traveled to Tampa in February to visit family there. My Aunt Pennie was fighting another bout of breast cancer, but it seemed this battle would not end well. We met my mom and Issi there and had a great time visiting.

In May, Stephanie and I went to NYC for a girls weekend. We had a wonderful time until Saturday. Lou's mom had hernia surgery on Thursday and was found unconscious Saturday morning. It was decided that she should be transferred to Yale where she would be closer to us and Lou could monitor her. In the ambulance, she coded and never recovered brain function. I was incredibly sad for Lou. I was also sad for the relationship we never had. I know of friends who have wonderful relationships with their in-laws. We never had that. Lou took some time off of work and was by her side daily. It was a very trying emotional time. We moved her to New Haven in June where we could visit. Lou and I differed on end of life choices, which caused more stress in our lives.

In June, my friend, mentor, and boss died of breast cancer. Chris was in her mid-60s and led an amazing life. Max's bris was at her house. She was a straight-shooter and was incredibly giving and honest. I only hope I can be more like her. She's the founder of New Haven Reads. We had many talks while she was sick in the hospital and at her home. The last time I saw her, in early June, it was a rainy day and I had Max with me. I almost cancelled for no reason other than the fact that it was gross out. I'm so glad that I didn't. She was on oxygen, but we were still laughing and joking. I took off Max's shoes and out poured a ton of sand. I told her I was sorry and she just shrugged her shoulders and said, "No big deal, we can vacuum!" In true Chris fashion, there was no funeral. They held a memorial service in September that was quite lovely. I think of her when I'm at New Haven Reads. I think of her when I need some light-hearted parenting advice. I think of her when a book falls off the shelf at NHR or a child is excited about getting a word right. She's always there.

The summer was uneventful after that. My grandmother turned 94 and is still rather funny. Max and I did our annual tour of TN. In September, Pennie took a turn for the worse and we knew she was not long for this life. She spent her final days in her home surrounded by her awesome sons and her siblings. Max and I went to Florida and saw Pennie unconscious and I was able to say goodbye. While I was very sad and emotional, it was so lovely to be able to say goodbye and have time with family. Max was fabulous at cheering us up. Pennie played such a profound part in my growing up. She lived less than a mile away from my childhood home for many years and I woud see her and her children daily or weekly. I know from my mom, her good friend (despite being my dad's sister), that she gave my mom parenting advice. When Max was born, Pennie and David came to his bris. Pennie stayed with us the night before his bris. Max woke up several times, I fed him a few times and Pennie just got up with him at 5:30 and let us sleep. She was just that way. So often something funny happens or Max says something witty and I want to call her. As my dad tells my grandmother, "I don't think she has a phone where she is..."

October brought our first big snow that was forecasted to fall while Max and I were in Vermont with Rachel and Tristan. We left early, but the snow started pouring in Massachusetts. It was pretty brutal driving. We made it to Hartford and stayed! I thought it was going to be an awful winter, but it's been rather pleasant thus far.

November was great with my mom and Issi coming for Thanksgiving. Jenna, my stepsister, came down for the day also. We had a great turkey, stuffing, and a few sides. It was really nice to just have family at home and not be traveling.

In December, we all went to NY to celebrate Katie's bat mitzvah. What a weekend! Keith and Ellen really did a marvelous job! We had a wonderful time and the food was amazing. The morning my mom and Issi were supposed to leave the phone rang. It was The Mary Wade Home, where Lou's mom lived. She had passed away in her sleep. It didn't seem real to me until I saw her in the casket. She looked like her old self. Great hair, painted nails and proud stance. That's the way I will remember her, not as the patient semi-conscious. Lou's niece, Ashely spoke at the funeral about "The Nana I knew". It was such a fitting tribute to her memory of her relationship with her nana. This is the way I want to remember all of those who I know who died--the __________ I knew.

At the end of 2011, Max had the stomach flu, then I got it. My friend said it was an end-of-the year cleanse. I know that 2012 will be a better year. 2011 was brutal. Our new baby is due July 1 and we find out where we're moving to in June 2013. So far, so good.

2nd birthday

2011-03-13T17:32:00.001-07:00

From Recently Updated

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Today, March 13, 2011, we celebrated Max's second birthday at the Shoreline Trolley Museum. Thanks to my friend Kim V. (who also gave him the super cute yellow beach chair with his name on it!) for suggesting it! We had a wonderful time taking two trips up and down the tracks. We ate delicious cupcakes in ice cream cones, sang happy birthday, made a delightful mess, and visited with friends and family. Grammy, Popky, Uncle Carl, Aunt Crystal, and cousin Ashley all made the trip for the big day! Max's actual birthday is tomorrow 3-14! He'll be spending the day with Grammy! Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrate.

I got the ultimate compliment from my good friend Rachel today, "Can you please plan T's 3rd birthday party?" Ahh...it's the little things in life.

TWO MONTHS-no oops

2011-01-16T16:50:00.000-08:00

From video

From January 2011- snow

Well, we've been rather busy the last 2 months. Mom and Issi came to visit for Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful time (as always) and Issi made an amazing turkey. Max refused to eat it, though. Goof. December was a rough month in school, as the kids were anxiously awaiting Dec. break. Over winter break, cousins Anne and JD had a darling boy, Mose. He joins big sister, Tova (3) to their family in Philadelphia. Max and I went there for the bris. Max and Mose will have a unique cousin bond (me thinks) because they share the same hebrew name and are both named for Grandpa Abie! Mom and Issi returned with us to CT for a few days and we loved having them here for our anniversary! Lou surprised me and we went to an awesome French Rest. in Branford. Yum!

January was fine the first week back to school, then the students seem to have cabin fever. I'm a bit frustrated at this time with my class.

Max is doing great at his new "school" and we're very happy there. Over winter break, while we were in Philadelphia (where it also snowed), it snowed 11". Then, last week we got slammed with 29" of snow and we were out of school for TWO days (unheard of)! Max keeps saying, "snow, COLD!" Yes, Max, snow is cold. Sometimes he wants to walk in it and other times it's just, "up, up, up!"

He continues to add to his vocabulary. His walking has improved greatly and he now runs and kicks. Max continues to THROW things that he shouldn't and we're working on that. He's so fun to hang out with and continues to make funny faces. His latest look are his big eyes wide open with his hand over his mouth that's formed in an O.

I'm not apologizing for not posting. I'm busy. Teaching full-time, Mommying full-time, and running our household have me running around like a chicken with her head cut off. It's just too much. I am not superwoman. MERCY!!!! (remember that game?)

Until next time (next year?)

Fall fun

2010-11-13T17:37:00.000-08:00

Here's photos from Max's professional photo shoots this fall. Molly of MEFphoto.com rocks!!!

It's been a busy few months in the Stein household. September was full of fun as I went back to the classroom full time. I'm teaching 3rd grade at an urban school in New Haven. I have a lively class with many challenges. I am happy to be back, but it's always a challenge finding a balance, which I'm not entirely sure is possible. I'm trying to work more at school and not bring home work at night, but this is not working out on the weekends so well.

Lou is on night float right now. It's awful. I feel awful for him. While I mostly always take Max to and fro through the day, it's especially hard for Max who doesn't understand why he's going days without seeing his daddy! At least I understand what's going on, although it doesn't make it any easier!

August travels

2010-08-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

Max and I went to Chattanooga, Dandridge, and Lynchburg over the past few weeks. We arrived in Nashville and Erin and Spencer drove us to Chattanooga. Max slept for all of 5 minutes in the car and was a great traveler! He didn't go to sleep until 9 that night (usually he's in bed by 7:30). The next day we hung out at Erin's parent's house and swam. The boys had a great time together and really seemed to enjoy each other's company. Of course, Erin and I enjoyed hanging out also. While we were in Chattanooga we saw many friends and family. It was SUPER miserably hot and my little sweatbox had to be changed several times in a day usually (his clothes). We went to the zoo with Erin, Spencer, Dad, and Lynn. WOW! What a fun day!

Max hung out with his great-grandmothers as well. Mommy Anne just loves him and says he's a great baby. Mama came over and played with him on the floor! She's doing great!!! Max loved being the center of attention and was am amazing traveler.

Next we drove to Dandridge to see Stephanie and her family. We had a great time relaxing by the pool and eating! Larry took care of the four boys while Steph and I went to see a movie! So lovely! Max loved hanging out with the big boys! Rex (her 2 year old) and he got along very well and seemed to be friends! Thanks for hosting us!!! We had a blast!

After Dandridge, we drove to Lynchburg to see Laura and Jason. After getting a bit lost (ok, very! and my cell dying) we finally arrived at supper time. I was more frustrated than Max at that point! Laura and I had a wonderful time relaxing and watching Max play. He loved the baby pool at her house.

Now he's shaking his head up and down and asking for, "wa wa." I'm so glad he can communicate now! Lou picked us up at the airport yesterday and both Max and I had a hard time going to sleep back at home. Oh, but what a great sleep it was! This morning Max was evaluated since he's not walking. The speech therapist said he's well above 17 months in his verbal and cognitive skills, but he does have a significant gross motor delay (low muscle tone). So, that's why he's not walking yet. We're going to start some PT with him.

Thanks for all our wonderful visits, but we sure are glad to be back home with daddy (who's on vacation!!!).

Family and friends visits

2010-06-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

From Philadelphia visit

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WOW! Two posts in one month! I must be working part-time. I am only working at New Haven Reads for a few weeks until Summer School starts. Then, I'm back to two jobs for a month or so, then I'm leaving NHR. Max and I are traveling and hanging out with family and friends in August. Lou is off for two whole weeks, so we plan on having some major family time! YAH!

Our niece, Ashley, came to visit last weekend. My friend Leslie and I held a tag sale and I needed someone to watch Max while we did that, and Ashley was graduating from 8th grade the following week, so she was free! Lucky for us! Max absolutely adores her and I don't blame him! She's great with him and so fun to watch her interact with Max.

This past weekend Max and I went to Philadelphia. I made the mistake of taking 206 in NJ instead of the turnpike. What was I thinking!? The trip was free, but it added an extra 2 hours to the trip! We stayed at Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike's on Weds. night. Mira and Anja were visiting from California, which was why we chose to go to Philly then... We had a great visit and Mira took some amazing shots of Max playing in the grass! Max loved watching his bigger cousins and trying to play with them. Tova, Anne, and JD came over for dinner (complete with awesome matzo balls!) and we all watched our kids play and laugh (and cry) together. What a great evening!

On Thursday, Max and I headed to my former school, Imani, to visit friends. Visits there are never long enough, but I always feel fabulous when I'm there! I love seeing my former students and teacher friends. It's so wonderful to be able to go back to a place where I truly enjoyed my job and was challenged constantly! Not that I'm not challenged now, it's just different to not be in the classroom. Max needed a nap, so we headed over to my pal Rachel's house nearby, where she and I visited while he napped. It worked out perfectly! We headed up to Aunt Myra's in Yardley then. It just so happened that Aunt Pennie was also in town, so we had a triple aunt visit!

On Friday, Ali came to visit, and she, Pennie, Max, and I went to Center City. We went to my favorite shoe store, The Continental for lunch, and tooled around. Max missed his afternoon nap, but took a short snooze in the car. It's so fabulous how adaptable he is---he slept in three different pack n plays in a few days and was ok with it! Then, we were off again to get our hair cut! Max had his first lollipop while we were there, he loved it! Those pictures are on my phone...

Saturday was rather relaxing. Pennie, Myra, Max, and I went to Willow Grove mall. Max and I departed early so he could nap in a real bed. I also took a snooze! Scott came over and later Beth and her kids (Chase and Olivia)...so wonderful to visit with cousins! Max adorned the attention and especially was drawn to his cousin, Scott, who we think is a baby magnet---all babies love him! And I must say he is great with them.

Max and I headed back to New Haven to celebrate Father's day with Lou (who was post-call). I made the dreaded mistake of taking the GW bridge instead of the Tappen Zee. We sat in traffic going towards the bridge for 2-3 miles for 2 HOURS! Max was more patient than I was. We were jamming out to his Music Together CDs from music class.

On Wednesday, Max and I are headed out to Colorado to visit my brother, Dan. My Mom and Issi are also meeting us out there. I welcome any advice for flying with a very active toddler on a four hour flight). He's great with take-off and landing, it's just the entertaining in-between.

oops...a month has passed

2010-06-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

From outside with Max/Alexa's shower

Max, Lou and I loved sitting in the grass at our old apt. It started last summer when Max and I would wait out there for Lou to come home. That was before. Before Max started moving like a maniac! I'm happy he crawls, pulls up, talks, and reacts; but sometimes I long for the days when he just wanted to be held or swaddled. I am in no way ready for another child, I just appreciate him when he was in baby blob mode more now that he's mobile!

Just today he started pointing to his ears, mouth, toes, belly, and shoes when we ask him where they are. He's already been pointing to his nose for a month or so, now he also says "NOOOOO..." (as in, nose).

Mom and Issi have been here a long stretch. I love it when there here because I can come home at lunch time and see them and Max! It's also wonderful to have help! I feel like I've been on vacation. Issi put up gates on the stairs for moving Max and mom mostly unpacked us! Thank goodness! I just didn't have the patience to unpack.

My job at school ends on Friday. I'm a bit sad, but feel very accomplished at helping my children become readers! The next week Max and I are off to Philadelphia for a visit, then the following week we'll be heading to Boulder, CO to see my brother, Daniel. Any and all advice for flying with a toddler is welcome! The last time we flew was in Feb. and he wasn't the major squirm he is now.

In July I'm teaching Summer School and it's my last month at New Haven Reads. I'm just going to work part-time in the fall unless a teaching job comes along, but I'm not making myself crazy over it.

Toddlerhood

2010-05-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

(R) Max had a photo session with Margot's dad, Tarsey. He really captured Max's funny faces!

Max threw his first tantrum yesterday. I was a bit shell shocked. My darling, adorable, cute baby started crying hysterically when I took the spoon that he was putting on his bare foot, then into his mouth away from him. I seriously was SPEECHLESS! I just asked him what he was doing. I did not give the spoon back to him. I did hide it though. It seemed like forever, but it was probably a few seconds and he stopped crying. He was finished eating, so we went outside and he was totally fine! Good-bye crocodile tears! He's been a bit moody lately (I so wonder where he gets that!?)... He's not walking or even cruising yet. I'm ok with that. We're moving next week and I don't really think I can handle much else going on! He wants to be held, held, held, then when he wants, he goes slack against my hip and slides down. Then up again. He has quite the vocabulary! He says mama, dada, ball, boon, egg, leaf (I haven't heard that one yet), yaya (his daycare provider), and various other ba, la, da, pa... We ask him where his nose is and he points to it! Of course, if we ask where anything else is, he points to his nose! Max holds the book correctly (Yah! CAP test for kindergartenders!) and will point to pictures in the book. He loves playing with his blocks, especially knocking down anything tall! He giggles every single time he knocks them down!

If I say, "Max, where's your ball. Bring me the ball, please?" He will find one of his many balls and bring it to me or at least show it to me. I am so delighted that he is where he is developmentally. Equally so I am glad that I can talk with my fellow mommy friends without feeling like we're competing (it's HARD!). We all recognize that our kids will hit milestones at different times and that's ok. Max did get teeth on April 30!!! Two of his bottom ones popped up! Maybe that's why he's been Mr. Moody? He's also down to one nap a day!

My bookclub book just came today, so I need to get reading. I'm almost out of boxes to pack. Is anyone reading this?

Toddlerhood

2010-05-06T18:05:00.001-07:00

(R) Max had a photo session with Margot's dad, Tarsey. He really captured Max's funny faces!

My bookclub book just came today, so I need to get reading. I'm almost out of boxes to pack. Is anyone reading this?

Family and friends visits

2010-04-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

From Last Import

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Here's a picture of our niece, Ashley, pushing Max at the park. She lives about an hour away and came on Friday, spent the night and took care of Max while I worked on Saturday. Max loves her!!! We can't wait to have her back! Max is enjoying the outdoors as the weather becomes nicer (sometimes). He's very happy outside. When he cries (rarely), if I take him outside he will stop no matter the weather.

Today Max and I visited Mia, Lena, and Mikaela in Armonk. We had a wonderful relaxing day playing inside and outside.

Blog slacker...

2010-04-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

End of March 2010

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I apologize for being a blog slacker, I'll try to be better. We've been very busy with birthday parties, parental visits, and work! Max celebrated friends' birthday parties and then celebrated his own on March 13 at Blend. Our Music Together teacher was the one who led the party and it absolutely rocked! We didn't sing Happy Birthday to him because I thought he would freak out. He knew exactly what to do with his cupcake baked inside the ice cream cone (Thank you Jaymie!!!). He put the cupcake up to his toothless mouth and went to town on it! He really enjoyed it! We gave me another one on Sunday (his actual birthday) and sang to him with a candle in the top. He definitely likes sweets. He actually really likes chocolate, so if I'm eating something chocolate, he thinks it's for him. I share a bit with him because we don't want to be the "NO SWEETS" parents; it's ok in moderation. He's not eating it every day.

My mom and Issi visited and kept Max home while they were here. We had a wonderful visit with Dan (my brother) also while they were here. My dad and Lynn came last week and hung out with Max. Although it's hard to live far away from family, it's so nice when they visit! I appreciate their company more having a long-distance relationship.

Max is a eating, toothless, crawling, goofy face-making little guy! He is an absolute joy. Yesterday he wasn't feeling so well and was a bit crabby--Lou and I didn't know what to do with him! Poor baby! Until next time...

Chanukah and snow

2009-12-20T15:52:00.000-08:00

From Chanukah and snow

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Not much has been going on in New Haven the past few weeks and we like it that way! Max is scooting on his bottom and has many funny faces. He's sleeping like a champ, but wakes up and screams sometimes (night terrors Anne A. thinks...). He takes two naps a day and sleeps about 12 hours a night. Usually I have to wake him up in the morning to get him ready to go to daycare. He's Mr. Smiley when I go in to get him in the mornings, which totally gets my day off to a great start. We celebrated Chanukah without fanfare or presents for each night. We figure we only have this year to do that, so we took advantage!

Lou is on the SICU this month and next month is Transplant. I'm working at a neighborhood school tutoring small groups in reading. It's very rewarding, but certainly frustrating when children are running and screaming in the halls. I'm still at New Haven Reads and enjoying running the Science Park location.

Max's 7th month

2009-10-25T16:27:00.001-07:00

From Max's 7th month

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Max is growing more and more each day! It's so fun to watch him discovering life. Today we had a family photo shoot at the park. Max sat up for more than a few minutes independently! Yah! It was wonderful to have a family day. Max had an ultrasound last week to check on his head. It's a bit large, so our pediatrician was somewhat concerned... but he's fine!!!

Max's 6 month update and Papa's funeral

2009-10-05T14:55:00.001-07:00

Max's 6 month update: He's still a little peanut at 14.2 lbs (10th percentile), 27 inches (75th percentile), and his big ole head is in the 85th percentile! He's now going to eat 2x a day and I'm giving him juice for the first time. He seems to like it, but who knows...

From Chattanooga Oct. 09

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Max and I just returned from a visit to Chattanooga for Papa's funeral. For more details visit www.emilyandgene.blogspot.com. He was an amazing man and I'm proud to say I am his granddaughter. He taught me patience by showing it to me over and over again. While I am sad about him leaving Earth, I'm happy that he is not stuck in the hospital unable to life life to the fullest as he liked to do. We had a wonderful visit with family and Max was pretty good traveler. We missed Lou, but are excited he's off for Thanksgiving this year. We'll be in Chattanooga again--Max's third plane trip!

Max's first experience with cereal

2009-09-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

From Max's first experience with cereal

Max experienced rice cereal for the first time being fed by Daddy on Sunday, September 6 with guests Ali and Uncle Valdis watching. I recorded it for posterity (RE: Max's grandparents and great grandparents). I'll try to post that later. Despite showing all the signs of being ready to eat, he wasn't quite sure what to do with it. I tried again tonight, but he just gave me a dirty look as if to say, "What is this yucky stuff, Mommy?" His formula tastes awful and he seems to choke that down just fine--in fact, he's holding his own bottle now! When Lou put the spoon of cereal into Max's mouth at first he was excited, maybe because I was videoing it, Ali was taking photos, and Valdis was looking on--so, all eyes were on Max, the way he likes it! He soon gave us all the dirty face--"what is this you're feeding me???" So, after trying again tonight with a failure to consume, bananas are next...

Lou earns his PhD!!!

2009-08-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

Philly Summer 2009

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Max and I drove to Yardley, Pa. (near Philly) for a visit with Aunt Myra and Uncle Milko. It was so fun to hang out and chat like a slumber party! Lou took the train down to Baltimore to defend his dissertation on Tuesday (also his birthday). He rocked it!!! We met him at Aunt Carol and Uncle Michael's after coming back triumphant! Max was very excited to see his daddy (as was I). On Monday, Max and I visited my former school, Imani and he made his debut! Of course he was a hit---how could be not be? :)

Last night was awful. My poor baby has a cold. We confidently put him in his pack 'n play at 8 and he cried a bit. I guess he wasn't ready to hit the hay! I rescued him and gave him a bottle. He then went to sleep with his thumb in his mouth. About 10 when Lou and I were going to bed, Max woke up. He's slept through the night for the past 5 weeks and I've been spoiled!!! Poor Maxy couldn't breathe. He kept trying to suck his thumb and breathe through his nose. It was a miserable night for all of us! Carol and I went out to get a bulb to aspirate him, saline nasal spray, and Vicks Vaporub. Max woke up every hour and a half and both of us felt awful today (and max!)

Lou drove back while Max slept most of the way. We're having him sleep in his swing tonight, since it's upright. He just started crying from the congestion...Here's to hoping his first cold is SHORT!

Chattanooga visit

2009-08-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga #1

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chattanooga #2

Max and I had a great visit with a ton of family and friends in Chattanooga. More pictures and details later.

More Brigantine

2009-07-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

Myra's family visits at the beach

Beach Thurs. and Fri.

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Brigantine 2009- click each to view all

2009-07-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Brigantine July 2009

Sunday shore

Max's first trip to the beach

2009-07-12T17:46:00.000-07:00

From Last Import

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Of course our little monkey didn't like the Long Island Sounds one bit! He liked the sand and watching the water, but not getting in it! I'm sure his aversion to water is going to change, but it's just funny that Lou and I both grew up swimming and with boats in our families and now our child hates water! Lou took him for a little dip, which lasted about 2 seconds, then he started screaming hysterically!!! Poor baby. He was doused up in UV protection from his hat to his 60spf on his toes!

My Mom and Issi come in on Tuesday. I'm so excited for them to see how much Max has changed in the last two months! He's grabbing, laughing, and sticks out his bottom lip when he's unhappy! He's turning into quite the character.

My stepmother, Lynn, is going through chemo for breast cancer, which totally stinks! I keep thinking it's like the first trimester of pregnancy when I was so tired and nauseated, except I kept my hair (it's coming out now!) Lou's mom also has breast cancer, but is going to have a lumpectomy first sometime in August, then radiation.

My grandfather, Lou's dad, Papa is still on a vent and has been moved to a facility.

Things are looking up here though...I have another part-time job for the fall running small groups for second grade literacy at a neighborhood school. With this and staying at New Haven Reads, I can still hang out with Max one afternoon a week and not be so stressed about teaching. I'm still deciding on childcare for Max. I found a place and really like it, but she won't hold the spot until September, when I need it. So, we'll see. I found another place, but the drawback there is that she has a cat (even though it stays in the basement!)...

4th of July

2009-07-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July and Visit with Mia

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The Stein family went to Tanya and Rick's for the Fourth of July! Max went in the pool for the first time and unlike his cousin, Madison, he HATED IT! He was HYSTERICAL and lasted about 3 minutes until I gave him back to Lou.

On Friday, July 3, Max and I went to visit Mia and Lena in Armonk. We had a blast hanging out. Lena was adorable in the backseat with Baby Max! He was crying and Lena said, "It's ok Baby Max. I love you..." Then she offered him her lovey- Turtle! What a doll! We visited Leigh and her family, including new baby, Matthew. Max looked like a GIANT compared to him! He was a little peanut!

Father's Day, Dad's visit, First time in Bumbo Chair

2009-06-27T12:50:00.001-07:00

Father's Day, Dad's visit, First time in Bumbo Chair

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stress

2009-06-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

Max 3 months

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I must say that Max is settling into life nicely (finally!) He's sleeping in his crib, but still sleeping on bodies for naps. Other areas of our lives stink! Lynn and Lou's mom both have breast cancer. Lynn started chemo last week. Lou's mom is having a lumpectomy, then most likely radiation. Lou's starting his second year as a resident tomorrow! Yah!

We still have our condo on the market in Philly and are no longer making payments. Never a dull moment...I guess that's life! My dad, is coming on Monday for a visit, so that will be wonderful!!!
Ciao,
Shelley and family

2009-06-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

From Max 12 weeks

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There's not that much to report on the Max front. He's growing in length and is getting A fat roll on his leg! We're so excited about Popa's visit in a few weeks (my dad- Alan), then Grammy and Poppy's visit (my mom- Marjorie and stepfather- Issi) in July. Then, Max and I are off to Chattanooga the first week in August! We can't wait for Max to meet his great-grandparents!

Lou is ALMOST finished with his intern year! Yah!!! It's been a very hard year, for both of us. I'm back working at New Haven Reads, which is absolutely perfect for me right now. I am so grateful that I can work there and hang out with Max too.

Please check on my stepmother's blog for updates: www.lynnhoward.blogspot.com

Please check on Mama and Papa's blog for updates on Papa's health: www.emilyandgene.blogspot.com

Love,

Shelley (and Lou and Max)

week 10

2009-06-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

From Max_week_10

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Erin and Missy's visit

2009-05-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

Erin and Missy's visit

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Erin and Missy visited us this weekend. What a great time we had! Games of scrabble, raw balls, and ICEE pops all made my stomach hurt with laughs! Erin gave Max two baths and he didn't scream as badly (with the heater on--ala SAUNA conditions). We shopped all day Friday, then had all you can eat sushi! YUM! And NO, I don't eat eel or lobster or imitation crab--STILL. Saturday we were bums, correction, I was a bum while Erin and Missy took Max for a long walk. Then we ran errands while Max hung out with his dad. They left today with a trip to the Hartford airport. Max slept from 11-2:45 in the car, then ate, and slept some more!!! WOW! Thank you guys soooo much for coming to visit!!!

Emergency Room Adventures

2009-05-17T17:42:00.000-07:00

Visit with Mia, Lena, and Leah

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Aunt Mia, Lena, and Leah came over this morning for a lovely brunch, then we went to the park. Lena and I played while Mia held Max. We had so much fun playing in the sand, ok, fine--Lena was playing in the sand and I watched. When we returned Lena ate Mac N' Cheese and I took Max's temperature (he had a 100.3 and 100.3 last night, but was normal this morning) and it was 101.2!!! I called the pediatrician on call and he recommended going to the ER since Max is so little. Of course when when we got there, he had no fever. Lou didn't seem worried, but I was, so off we went. We went back right away and to make a long story short he didn't have a fever the whole time. After being stuck three times for a blood draw, a catheter, and a bag to collect pee--we're told it's probably just a virus! The staff was fabulous, and I was glad that we went!

We came home to a tidy house- courtesy of my fabulous friends! Thank you MIA AND LEAH!!!! They even washed dishes!

My first mother's day!

2009-05-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

From First Mother's Day

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Today we celebrated my first mother's day. Lou was post-call, and not available to celebrate since he needed to sleep after being up all night! Lou was so sweet and sent me tulips yesterday! My favorite! He gave my mom a card for me from Max to give me in the morning, since he wouldn't be here. It was ooey, gooey, mushy--just as I like it! It's been a wonderful mother's day, celebrating with my son and my mom! We had brunch at Ali's with her and her mom. The frittata and pancake rocked!

I worked most of last week at New Haven Reads. It was great to have mom and issi taking care of Max while I worked. I definitely appreciated my time with him more, when I'm not with him 24 hours a day.

Thanks for all the mother's day wishes!!!

Max's fifth and sixth weeks

2009-04-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

From Last Import

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Max is settling into life more now, therefore making for a happier mommy! My mom was here last week and Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike came back also. It was so wonderful to have extra hands with Max. Who knew that an infant takes several adults (rather a village...) to raise!

He's growing leaps and bounds and is on yet another new formula. His stomach seemed to bothering him immensely and Mylicon wasn't helping. We're staying on this one--he's much happier and sleeps better.

Max's fourth week

2009-04-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

From Max's fourth week

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I'm not sure if I mentioned this before or not, but I'm calling motherhood wonderfully overwhelming! Last week Max was sleeping horribly and I was getting little or no sleep. I called my mom and asked her to return. Thank goodness she's semi-retired! She came back this Tuesday and is staying until next Thursday. I take him at night and she lets me sleep in the mornings. I feel so much better and more rested!

Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike (mom's sister and brother-in-law) came in last week and shared in some Max time, which also allowed me to sleep some! yah! They are back this week to see mom and eat delicious New Haven pizza. In-between their visits, Laura came! I picked her up last Saturday in Hartford while Lou had Max in White Plains seeing his mom. While I enjoyed my time away from him, I felt torn--I should want to be with him all the time?! Ridiculous. I still need me time and Lou and I need time together also. So many mommies forgo and forget about themselves, which I can see is very easy. It's hard, but I'm finding my way through!

Tuesday night is book club and I'm going without Max and not feeling guilty. I didn't even read the book! I just need time away! Since Max is having problems sleeping and going back to sleep, I've invested in all kinds of books I devour in the wee hours of the morning.

This is sounding a bit negative. Don't get me wrong, I love being a mommy, but there's no time off or time to just sit and listen to the silence. Max is an absolute joy and I'm so happy we decided it was time to have a baby. He's starting to smile and is about to outgrow the newborn diapers! He's already outgrown newborn clothes! It's amazing how much he changes.

Watching Lou with Max is such fun. I knew he would be a great dad, but I didn't know how fabulous! Max loves it when his daddy walks in the door (as do I!). It's so fun to watch him bond with Max like no other. I just didn't know how incredible it would be to watch other people with him and love him!

Thanks for all the well wishes and sleepy thoughts.

Love,

Shelley (and Lou and Max)

Max's third week

2009-04-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

From Recently Updated

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I will post pictures later. So, Max has been trying his parents patience since Thursday night. He hasn't been sleeping so great and cries when he's put down. We switched his formula to soy on Sunday, so we'll see how that goes. Last night Lou was nice enough to give me a break for 30 min. and took him in his screaming fit from 11-1. Lou's on call tonight, so that means no sleep for him at all! He fell asleep on my chest and I moved him to our bed, where he slept like a champ! If that's the solution, then so be it! Maybe the crib and swing are scary places for the babe.

I took Max to the pediatrician today to make sure nothing was wrong. He's very healthy and weighs in at 9 lbs!!! I'm feeling much better today. Rachel and her family came over yesterday and I napped. Today Tanya was nice enough to come over and relieve me for a bit. Thank goodness for good friends!

Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike are coming on Thurs. to help celebrate Passover and staying until Saturday. Then, Laura comes! Mom is coming Tuesday as Laura leaves. I'm feeling much better with all this support coming in and just wonder how moms do this alone. I know women have been having babies for thousands of years, but this is really hard! Someone asked me if m 20 years of babysitting prepared me for motherhood, my answer was a resounding, "NO!"

Nothing prepares you for motherhood. I'm calling it wonderfully overwhelming. There's this person who relies on you for everything. No breaks, no time outs, nothing! Then there's the hormones that are wack-o from being preggo. Sometimes I'm just overwhelmed with emotions...mostly positive ones, but sometimes it's overwhelming!

I love hearing everyone's suggestions and support. It helps me get through the day and NIGHT! Thanks!

Shelley

Max's second week

2009-03-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

From Max's second week

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We spent the day in Westchester today. Max met his "cousin" Lena and her family. We had a delicious brunch at the Davidson's and hung out there for a few hours. After that we went to Lou's mom's house and visited for a bit. She loved seeing her grandson and holding him in Whole Foods!

Max is growing like crazy! We went to the pediatrician yesterday and Max is now 7.75 lbs and grew .25 of an inch. He goes back at 2 months and is fabulous! More later...holding required.

Max's bris

2009-03-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

From Max's bris

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In the last week, Max has changed his animal noises to sound less goat-like and more sheep-like. He sounds like a different animal everyday! It's so fun to see him change daily. Lou has been home all week and I'm totally dreading being alone next week. I go back to the doctor on Monday and hopefully will be able to drive after that. We had a photographer come last Saturday and her pictures are at the link below.

http://erinbellphotography.com/Stein/

Max_1

2009-03-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Max_1

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Here's a shortened version of our birth story. The pitocin drip is immediately stopped and we need a new plan of action. Janet, the midwife, tells us that the baby needs to come out. She quickly goes and talks to my OB who wants to do a C-section IMMEDIATELY. While this was not an urgent situation, his heartbeat did return to normal, there was absolutely NO thinking involved on our part, which was fine because I didn’t have time to worry. Allie and Ryan made a hasty exit and wished us luck. Not two minutes went by and I signed the consent forms while they were telling me what to expect in the OR while wheeling me there. I didn’t really want a C, but I wasn’t willing to risk Paco’s life and didn’t think the iron cervix would open, so this was it. Jump into the diving pool, STAT!

Lou goes and changes while they prep me for surgery. Two anesthesia residents and an anesthesiologist tell me what’s going to happen play by play. The OR is freezing cold and I’m shivering and shaking, which in part might be due to being scared. They give me warm blankets, even though it’s only for a few minutes…Instead of an epidural, I get a spinal, which does into a different layer of your spinal cord. Essentially painless, just a pinch, I start to feel numb. Was I not just talking to Ryan about some patient of his that day like 5 minutes ago? Now I can’t feel my legs and it’s just surreal. “Can you feel this? This? This? “ the female anesthesia resident asks. I feel nothing from my boobs up! I started to feel nauseous and told them, then I had indigestion.

They wafted an alcohol pad under my nose, which helped. I wanted to know where Lou was and they assured me that he could come in as soon as I was draped and ready. He joined me at my head and they joked about having the curtain high so he couldn’t watch and criticize. He sneaked a few peeks, but was mostly just checking in on me. I couldn’t feel a thing, not even pulling when they said that I would (which I was so happy about!). A few minutes later, Max was screaming his head off. Evidently he was swimming in meconium (newborn poop), which can make a baby septic.

Lou gets to hold him after they clean him up and the three of us have an amazing time behind the curtain while they sew me back up. While I so wanted to have a vaginal delivery for a speedier recovery, I know that this is what was best for the health of our child. We thought I was headed for a C-section Saturday morning when my cervix was still undilated. We both agreed that we would rather go ahead and do it than risk Max at all.

Max was born at 4:04 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, weighing in at 6 pounds, 14 ounces and 21 inches long. It took longer to close than it did for him to be born. While Lou, Max, and I were hanging out (I literally was since I was filleted open) we majorly bonded and continued to do so in the recovery area. I put him on me for some skin-to-skin contact. He felt so amazing with super soft skin and downy hair.

I tried to upload a video without success.
Love,
Shelley, Lou, and Max

40 weeks

2009-03-04T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well, technically my due date is tomorrow, March 5. It would be fun for Paco to share a birthday with Spencer (Erin's 2 year old), but I just think he's happy inside. I go back to the doctor on Tuesday for a stress test (for him), ultrasound, and fluid check. I must say this waiting is for the PITS!!!

Paco update

2009-02-18T10:39:00.000-08:00

Well, Paco is at zero station in my pelvis now (he was too low for her to reach my cervix--I'm not sure what that means). So, that's good that he's already dropped. The midwife thinks he's about 6-6 lbs, so no giant baby for us! (Thank goodness)

Mia's 30th and NY baby shower

2009-02-08T17:32:00.001-08:00

Mia's 30th/NY shower

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Lou and I had a wonderful time celebrating Mia's 30th surprise birthday this weekend in White Plains at Sam's. Josh (Mia's husband) planned an amazing menu! YUM! Leah did a great job with the invitations (William Arthur). Jen had M and M's made for Mia in purple that said, "Happy 30th Mia." I compiled a scrapbook from people's pages who sent them in, which was completely FULL!

Today was my second shower!!! Leah, Carol (Mia's mom) and Mia were fabulous hosts. I was looking forward to lox all week and was not disappointed! It was so fun getting more loot for Paco and visiting with people who I haven't seen in awhile...

Thanks to Leah, Mia, Carol, Maryanne, Matthew, Marcie, Aunt Mary, Michelle, Jen, Becky, Ellen, Katie Jane, Chris, Tanya, Rachel, Tristan, Maryn, and Allie for coming!!! If I forgot anyone, please forgive my pregnant brain.

My dad and Lynn's dog, Suni, is very sick. She isn't eating and the vet says they can't find anything wrong. She is pretty elderly and outlook is grim. :( She's a very sweet dog.

I can't end on a sad note, so Paco (NOT HIS REAL NAME!) is totally kicking as I write this. Maybe he was excited to see his Uncle Carl today and Nana Carol also today...or maybe he's glad I'm in my P.J.s!

35 weeks and counting...

2009-01-30T17:37:00.000-08:00

35 weeks and counting! I know I will be sad once Paco (nickname) is born, but right now I'm feeling a bit uncomfortable. My lower pack on the left has started to hurt all the time and I'm such a crab!

I'm so excited about my shower in White Plains hosted by Mia, Leah, and Carol (Mia's mom)!!! Every day we get new baby stuff from UPS (poor delivery guy) that people send us! It's so exciting!

I went to the doctor on Thursday and everything looks good. He's measuring right on target, unlike 2 weeks before when he was measuring small. Now I go back every week! My big question was, "Can I take 2 Pepcid AC pills at night?" Luckily the answer is yes! I've been sleeping better ever since. No questions about labor or anything...I'm in denial.

No new pictures. Nothing exciting going on here, except snow snow snow! Argh! I'll put up a new post after my shower next weekend.

34 weeks

2009-01-25T15:40:00.000-08:00

From February 2009

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I spent the morning at the Norwalk Aquarium with Mia and Lena. She's so cute. She's talking up a storm at and lunch said to me, "Selly juice?" because she wanted to have some of my drink. So cute! She ate a cookie and was so excited about it. Lena tried to sing, "C is for cookie..." and it was pretty close!

The previous pictures are from Leah's visit a few weeks ago. We discovered that the "Blue Tulip" was going out of business and spent several hours in there. Luckily for me, Leah was willing to indulge my stationery problem.

The cute baby boy is Tristan, Rachel and Parfait's son. I must say that pictures do him no justice. He's such an adorable baby!

Well, at 34 weeks, my uterus is pressing on my rib cage. He has completely taken over my entire torso! I go back to the doctor/midwife on Weds. and then go back every week! Time is closing in...All his clothes are washed and put away and we do have diapers. I'd like to say we're ready, but are you ever ready to have a child?

Paco/Frankie update

2009-01-14T17:01:00.000-08:00

So, I went to the midwife today and I've gained a total of 19 lbs. I'm at 33 weeks tomorrow (Thurs., Jan. 15). She measured me and I'm 30 cm. She said that I should be within 2 cm of how many weeks I am, so I'm measuring a little small.

I go back in 2 weeks and if he's still measuring small, then I'll have another ultrasound to measure him. Honestly, since Lou's such a big guy, I'm secretly relieved that he's not huge!!!

We now see Paco moving around a lot. His heartbeat is totally normal at 155 bpm. His legs are on the left side of my belly and you can see his limbs like in "Alien"!!! It's just subtle now, but he's super strong and I am always like, "did you see that"? Lou keeps reading children's books to him with hilarious commentary!

Work is still great. Lou is on night float this month and I only see him in the mornings, which stinks. He has a corneal abrasion (bruise on his eye) and is not the greatest patient!

shower and more

2009-01-01T16:34:00.000-08:00

shower, etc...

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I had a great time at my shower in Chattanooga!

2009-01-01T16:33:00.000-08:00

2008-12-27T08:55:00.001-08:00

I'm seeing a lot of blue in my life lately, so I decided a more pinkish hue was appropriate. I've been in Chattavegas since Monday and have been busy every second! I had a pregnancy massage (wow!), saw my grandmother, visited my stepmother's family in Atlanta, shopped with my mom, bonded with my sibs and who knows what else...

Today is my shower that Erin's hosting at my grandmother's with my mom and Lynn. I'm so excited!!! To the right is a picture of my cousin

Lauren and I on Christmas day in Atlanta. I'm 30 weeks and she's 28 weeks. Her baby girl is Petunia (joke) and ours is Frankie (also a joke). We had a marvelous time kvetching about pregnancy and enjoying it also. We pulled the pregnancy card when we had our younger siblings come up from watchinga movie to finish the dishes! Amazing what a little parasite inside you can bring!

I really enjoyed visiting with the family and catching up. Our dinner was simply delicious! Especially those mashed potatoes and turkey! YUM! Well, I report post-shower...

28 weeks

2008-12-17T18:23:00.000-08:00

I hung out with Mia and Lena on Sunday, then went shopping some more on my own. I just can't shop like a used to! Especially with all those holiday shoppers! WOW! I went to Nordstrom Rack and bought nothing for myself. There were no maternity clothes and I was in the mood to get gifts!

Tomorrow I'm 29 weeks. I can't believe we get to meet Frankie in 11 weeks or so. I'm beginning to feel a little uncomfortable, but I figure he's worth it.

I'm off to Chattanooga on Monday for 6 days. Erin's throwing me a shower at my grandmother's house. I can't wait!!! I love getting stuff for Frankie. My friend is giving us her crib also next week. Yeah! I think it might be time to get a dresser because we're running out of space to put stuff we have for him. It'll be fun to see my family being this big.

Frankie is moving a lot. I'm unsure if he likes all this holiday cheer (read: cookies and such!) I don't know where he's going to go for the next 2 months because I feel like he's already taking up my entire thoracic cavity!

Brrr...it's cold.

2008-12-06T18:03:00.001-08:00

Well, our gas was turned off this week due to non-payment. Oops. We never got a bill and it just slipped our minds to check on it. I must say that playing the pregnancy card worked well! They came within an hour to turn it back on.

Lou's on call tonight and I'm all alone. I'm catching up on ER episodes, that's how bad it is...

2008-11-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving at Lou's brother (Carl and Crystal's) house in Ridgefield. I must say it's strange to be sleeping in my own bed on Thanksgiving, but I'm not complaining. Our friends Alli and Ryan also joined us; Carl and Crystal's daughter, Ashley; Crystal's mother, Ada; Lou and Carl's mom, Carol; and baby Paco made his presence known but kicking up a storm during dinner!

After spending last year's black Friday in line at Kohl's for 2 hours, I have no desire to repeat that tomorrow. So, I'm sleeping in (surprise!) and vegging...

First post!

2008-11-23T17:17:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Mira, Bruce, Stephanie, and Lauren's blogs, here we are! 25 weeks pregnant, the little man is certainly moving a lot! We call him Frankie (Frank N. Stein) as a joke or Paco. We're excited, but patient for him to arrive in March.

I've started sale shopping with him in mind. I found some onesies at Gap for $2.97, shorts for $1.97 and yesterday at TJMaxx I found 2 pairs of pants for him for $2.99! So fun! Although, it is hard to find boy clothes that don't include Pooh or some teddy bear.

Lou is doing ok. He's on GI right now and intern year is proving nothing like Grey's Anatomy! He's very busy and works hard!