App-tastic

Marcus doesn't spend a whole lot of time sitting still. In fact, he'd rather eat entire meals running wild instead of seated at our table (but we try to keep that to a minimum). And it comes as no surprise that Marcus would spend all day every day outside playing in puddles and dirt.

However, there is the rare occasion where the little man slows down. While he isn't all that interested in arts and crafts, or puzzles and such, he does enjoy swiping my iPhone or the iPad.

It took some trial and error, and lots of downloading (and then deleting) to find a few quality apps that keep Marcus entertained and are educational.

So today I thought I'd share our favorites:

1. Little Fox Music Box ($1.99)- part of the Fox and Sheep collection. Ages 1-5.

Between "Old Mac Donald" (Marcus' favorite), "London Bridge", and "Evening Song", there are over 100 interactive elements. Each time we open this up I feel like we discover something different. Then there is the music studio in the fox's tree house, where you can make and record your own music. There are times I think I may actually enjoy this app (particularly the music studio) more than the little man.

Old Mac Donald is Marcus' favorite of the three songs. Each season has a different layout that provides different elements of interaction. This is the first app Marcus usually goes to.
To incorporate more education to the app I will ask, "Where is the cow? Where is the horse? Where
are the flowers?" etc. 

2. Nighty Night ($1.99)- part of the Fox and Sheep collection. Ages 1-4. 

This is very similar to Little Fox Music box. There is cute lullaby music and narration to guide us along as we go through the house to put each animal to sleep. After successfully putting the animals to bed the lights in the house go out.
This was also nominated as App of the Year by Apple.

The fish are our favorite. When you tap them they zoom about, causing some serious giggles in our house. 

3. Toddlers Seek and Find, My Little Town ('lite' version is free, full version is $1.99). Ages 1-5.

When we first downloaded this I thought Marcus would be instantly bored. It's not as bright and flashy as some other apps we've tried, but I was very surprised how well Marcus took to this. There are over 80 animations that keep my little guy busy.

The lite version has two morning scenes (shown on left and right). On the left, Marcus loves to make the bear play the piano (middle left picture), and the train run (middle right picture). On the right, Marcus loves to watch the helicopter fly about the screen. To add in some educational components I will ask, "Where is the clock? Where is the sun?" etc.

4. Tiny Hands Educational Towers ($1.99). Ages +1.5 years.

We just discovered this app thanks to Sally and Mace! Marcus has been enamored with it.
It's puzzle after puzzle, increasing in difficulty. This is teaching Marcus before and after, big versus small, top versus bottom. This has become an instant hit in our house.

The bright colors and fun designs keep us busy for minutes!

5. Kids Trucks: Puzzles ('lite' version is free, full version is $1.99). Ages 1-6. 

It's trucks! That's about all I needed to download for Marcus to make him happy. To make me happy these are puzzles that gradually get more difficult as you go. Once each puzzle is successfully completed 'bubbles' appear on the screen and are fun to 'pop.'

The puzzle pieces are located on the left. The bubbles appear after successful completion.
Let's have an honest moment - these are similar to the wooden puzzles, without the hassle of actual wooden pieces all over the place, getting lost, or stepping on those painful little red pegs. Win-win!

These are our go-tos when mommy just needs to sit down for a minute we need a change of pace from our regular go-go-go sprint. 

Share some of your favorite apps! We have a few long trips coming up, and we are always searching for ways to keep Marcus sitting still for multiple hours on end. 

$10 Parking, But Entry is Free!

Each stage of baby/toddlerhood is fun, but I absolutely *love* this stage Marcus is in currently. The kid a just one little sponge, soaking up every.single.thing around him. Taking him to new places to explore and discover is just as much fun for me, watching him learn, as it is for him.

While this last weekend's focus was primarily on football we managed to sneak in a trip to the California Science Center.

The science center is located adjacent to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which is a massive structure.

The Coliseum is the first stadium to have hosted the Olympic games twice - 1932 and 1984. It has also hosted the World Series and Super Bowls. Unfortunately, this is now most commonly known as the home field for USC Trojan football. Blech. 

The top right is a piece of stone from the Colosseum in Rome, while the bottom right is a piece of stone from the Atlis Olympia in Greece. 

After ogling over the Coliseum we made our way into the science center. Our first stop was to check out the space shuttle Endeavour.

Believe me when I say this picture does not do the space craft justice. The thing was *massive*.

The bottom middle pic is the underside of the space craft. Thousands of tiles, each made of 90% air, water resistant, and cost $2,000 PER TILE.

Scott could have spent hours meandering through all the space exhibits, reading all the little fact placards, and checking out all the space stuff. But, I knew Marcus wouldn't last long, and reminded Scott of that fact. We were in and out of the space exhibit in what was likely record time.

We made our way to the hands on areas for Marcus. The kid was in heaven.
First up, the play "house." Marcus discovered what a magnifying glass was, made a gourmet meal in the kitchen, and hung out in a big boy room.

The cartoonish feel of each room was so fun!

For a brief moment the room full of iPads was enamoring. And then Marcus realized he was quietly sitting still.

We then checked out an area that honed in on cognitive skills. Marcus has never been one to sit still long enough to work on puzzles, but he spent a shocking amount of time in this particular area.

When the little guy is deep in thought, or concentrating extra hard, he has a tendency to stick his tongue out.

So many puzzles!

By the end of our tour of the science center my little man was spent.

Lights out before we even exited the premises!

Entry to the science center was free (minus the $2 admission to check out the Endeavour)! BUT, in typical L.A. fashion, parking was TEN BUCKS! Who does that?! Ahh, the prices we'll pay to park our cars to let our kids learn.

Though the parking is a serious rip off, I'm already looking forward to our next trip back to the science center - there is so much more we have yet to explore!

Are there any science centers near you? If so, have you taken your littles to check them out? If not, I would highly recommend going for some hands on fun!

Mini Fruit Pizzas

Tuesday. Yuck. I'm 99.9% certain Tuesdays are worse than Mondays. Last weekend is now merely a memory and this weekend seems so.far.away. Not to mention, yesterday was a doozy of a day. But, that's another post for another day.

I figured to perk my mood up - and hopefully yours, too - I'd share this fun little recipe.

Friday I mentioned I was planning to make mini fruit pizzas to share during our Super Bowl festivities. I was a little skeptical as to how these world turn out. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy these were to make and assemble. And, how these might have been mildly addicting (and that I may have eaten my weight in them - whoops).

Mini Fruit Pizzas

1 package Pillsbury pre-cut sugar cookie dough
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 container whipped cream
4 cups (approximately) fruit toppings of your choice

Preheat oven to 350.
Slice fruit into bite size pieces.
Cut each pre-cut sugar cookie in half.
Roll into balls.
Place balls in center of mini muffin tin.
Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes.
Once removed from oven, allows cookies to cool for 2-3 minutes. Don't wait too long, or the cookies will be difficult to remove from the tin.
Place cookies on cooling rack.
Meanwhile, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Beat in whipped cream until well blended.
Place frosting into a zip lock baggie, snip the tip, and pipe the frosting into the cookie cups.
Add fruit atop the frosting.

To keep my pizzas Super Bowl appropriate, I used blueberries and kiwi to represent the Seahawks, and blueberries and oranges to represent the Broncos. I'm a self-admitted nerd. :)

I think these might also make an appearance at Marcus' birthday party (which is less than two months away - what?!!).

Enjoy!

Source: Banner Boutique

Happy Marcus Monday!

Marcus loves football, but the game yesterday didn't spike his interest at all. He'd much rather play than watch.

Happy Monday!

Football, Food, and Favorite Faces

As a lover of football I can't wait for this weekend. While my team didn't make it to the championship game (maybe next year, Chiefs) I'm still excited. It doesn't get much better than getting together with friends, tossing back a few beers, eating your weight in different fruit/veggie/cracker dips, and watching a good football game.

With that said, let's get going this week's highlights.

1. In keeping with the Super Bowl theme… Random fact we just learned this week: the guy who picks up our recyclables every week is Richard Sherman's dad. Love Richard Sherman or hate him, it's still kind of a cool connection.

2. You can't attend a Super Bowl party without bringing some sort of goodie to share. I thought about the ever so popular Jalapeño Corn Dip, or the obligatory Crock Pot Queso Dip. But, I think I'm going to go with something a little less traditional. Individual fruit pizzas - yes, please.

3. Speaking of fruits and dips… Marcus has been ALL OVER apples and peanut butter fruit dip. I've shared this before, but it is SO easy and SO good. Go getcha' some.
1/2 cup fat free vanilla Greek yogurt
2 Tbsp peanut butter
1/2 Tbsp honey
1/8 tsp cinnamon
Mix all together, dip fruit, enjoy!

4. It's been ages since I've been out with a group of girl friends. Thankfully, tonight I'm headed out to enjoy some good drinks and great company. GNO for the win!

5. Marcus has really become a little sponge. He is repeating everything we say and do. Lately, I cannot get enough of his 'pucker' face. He tries so hard when he is ready to plant a big fat kiss. I die.

Forgive the poor quality pics. Working with a wiggly toddler and an iPhone doesn't set one up for top notch photo quality.

Have a great weekend!

P.S. Go Seahawks!

Just Breathe

I lace up my shoes, giving them one last good tug.

Breathe. Just breathe.

The first few minutes slip by easily. Quickly.

Breathe. Just breathe.

One foot in front of the other.
A mile has gone by. Now two. I'm approaching the third.

Breathe. Just breathe.

The familiar burning that runs through my thighs and quads sneaks up on me. Yet, it is oh so welcome. I gladly push through it.

Breathe. Just breathe.

My pace is slower than normal, but I'm alright with it.

Breathe. Just breathe.

Before I know it the half way point has come and gone. I turn around and begin my trek back.

Breathe. Just breathe.

For these 60 minutes, this one glorious hour, I don't have to worry about anything. Except breathing.

Breathe. Just breathe.

My legs are quietly begging me to stop. My head refuses to give in to the whispered protests of my muscles. If I stop now all the stresses that have been mounting will invade this sanctuary I've created.

Breathe. Just breathe.

The miles come to an end. The run is over, at least for today.
Like a sweet, savory release, my head is a little clearer, my mood a little better, my attitude a little brighter.
Before I head back to the realities that face our every day I take one more minute.

Breath. Just breathe.

So What-ing

There are several things bouncing around in my head, and many things I simply need to get off my chest. I haven't said 'so what' in a while. I figured what better day to do so than today.

So what if…
…THIS ARTICLE, by Amy Glass, has me absolutely FUMING. To the point in which I think there is literally steaming coming out of my ears. In this one post she was able to offend women everywhere. This excerpt, in particular, made me want to give the author a real piece of my mind: "You will never have the time, energy, freedom or mobility to be exceptional if you have a husband and kids."
Holy. Hell.

So what if…
… I do not understand, no do I remotely like this new fingertip fashion trend.

How are those claws even functional? Ridiculous.
…And so what if not liking the trend labels me as old and uncool.

So what if…
…I'm day-dreaming of a trip we have coming up in a few months. Some people have a "thing" for shoes, or jewelry, or whatever. My "thing" is swimsuits. I can't help but buy at least one or two new suits each summer. Here are a few that I've got my eye on.

So what if…
…I know I'm not going to rock any of above suits like the models are. I don't have the belly, or the boobs, let's be real.

So what if…
…This came in the mail yesterday for Marcus. It's *supposed* to be a birthday present for him. But, I highly doubt I'll be able to wait until March to put him in it.

Cali Cub shirt can be found >here<.

So what if…
…Just because Marcus already owns one "cub" shirt doesn't mean I don't think he needs one of these.

Mama Bear, Man Cub, and Mama's Cub shirts can all be found >here<.

So what if…
…I might just want the Mama Bear sweatshirt for myself.

So what if…
…The Hospital Hill Half Marathon in KC isn't for another four months, but I'm already planning the post-race celebrations with a few blogging ladies that I'm dying to meet in real life.

So what if…
…I'm already anticipating switching out our running shoes for our party pants!

So what if…
…I'm secretly (now not so secretly) not dealing with the stress of our unknown living situation very well. Thankfully, a friend posted this on her Facebook wall and it was all I needed to read to let me know things will be ok.

Lastly, so what if…
…These pictures of Marcus have no rhyme or reason behind them, besides the fact that I happen to think my kid is cute. These photos have only ever been on a camera memory card, or filed away on the computer. And, contrary to what Amy Glass may think, Marcus makes me exceptional.

So there you have it.

Happy Hump Day!

Petite Picassos

I'll be the first to admit that arts and crafts in our house don't happen often. Marcus makes enough of a mess with dirt, and mud, and water, and anything else he can get his little sticky hands on. It's not often we'll pull out paint or crayons. And, in my defense, Marcus sits still for said projects for about 10 minutes. I have a hard time justifying a huge mess for a meager few minutes. 

However, a few weeks ago while we were still in Kansas City, my sister-in-law suggested Marcus and his cousin try their hands with ceramic painting. Because my chid has zero finesse I wasn't too sure how the idea would pan out. But, it was freezing, we'd been stuck inside for what seemed like days on end, and we were all itching to get out of the house.

We set off to Paint, Glaze and Fire for snacks, story time, and painting ceramics.

After picking our surfaces to paint we listened to a short story, sipped on some hot chocolate, and got to business.

For a short while Marcus was into the whole painting process.
If I had to guess, we should have passed over the story and gotten right to the painting. Little man may have had a better time channeling his inner Picasso had we started with the mess making immediately.

Marcus' cousin, on the other hand, was quite the artist, and expertly painted his mug. Marcus took a few cues from his cousin, using different brushes and sponges. Mommy may have gotten her hand in on the action too (I didn't want a completely white plate)!

The finished products looked a little dull, but we were assured after the items spent the necessary time in the kiln they would come out shiny and beautiful.

Didn't the mug turn out great? I kind of want one with a "D" on it.

And, Marcus' plate is a masterpiece - at least in his mommy's eyes.

While the painting project was fun, secretly my favorite part was the lack of mess and clean up I had to deal with.

Happy Marcus Monday!

This smile…

Happy Monday!

Homes, Haircuts, and SoCal Sunsets

With the roller coaster of emotions experienced this week one would think I'm pregnant. Pump your brakes. I'm not. But, seriously, one minute things are rainbows and roses, the next I'm freaking out wondering where we're going to be living in 60 days.

Is it too early for red wine? I kid. Sort of…

The weekend could not have come any sooner.

Time for Friday's five.

1. It's Friday. That alone deserves the top spot this week.

2. Last night there was an unbelievable sunset. I didn't get a picture, sadly. BUT, I was browsing through my photos and came across this one. Not sure how I haven't shared this, it's too gorgeous to keep hidden in my photo files.

3. Little man finally received another in-home hair cut. It's not the best, but it's better than the little shag-monkey he was beginning to look like.

4. Yesterday we looked at a few houses that were for sale. While we didn't find anything we loved at least we know what we don't like. And, the quest for a place to live marches on. Thankfully, Scott has recognized I'm conducting the Hot Mess Express when it comes to this whole housing situation. He's literally done all of the leg work in finding our next home. I'm forever grateful for all his work, and the fact that he puts up with understands my crazy.

5. To all the moms out there, watch this (here, I'll go ahead and pass you a tissue now). It's only 1:30, but it's worth every second. I pinky promise.

If you can't view the video click on >this link<.
(Barb, thank you, again for sharing this video and supplying yet another smile to my week!)

Happy Weekend!

22 Months Old!

Dear Marcus,
I swear just last week I was posting your 21 month update. This month may go down in the books as one of the fastest to pass us by. Then again, every month with you in our lives seems to just slip by us.

It is staggering what a little boy you've become. Your baby days are very much behind you, and you are running towards little-boyhood at full throttle.

Unofficial stats
Height: 34.5 inches (90th percentile)
Weight: 33 pounds (95th percentile)
Teeth: 17
Clothes: Transitioning to only 3T
Shoes: Size 7
Diapers: size 5

Vocabulary
New words are coming out of your mouth every day. And, each time a new word is formed your dad and I are always so excited. We're always saying, "Did you hear that? He just said 'xxxx'!" Some of your new favorites include, "awesome,""hot dog,""more," "mouse," "oh man," "oh snap," "oopsie," "outside," and "snack". If I had to guess, your word count is easily at 30+ words. However, there are certain words we'll ask (read: beg) you to say, and you simply shake your head and reply, "No." You'll say what you want when you want, I suppose.

Play
It comes as no surprise you would spend every waking moment outside. You love taking your tricycle out, however you're still learning how to maneuver the thing. If something has wheels, you love it. There are approximately 200 toy cars, trucks, and tractors spilling out from every corner in our house. You also have a sincere fondness for football. We are always outside throwing the football. On the rare occasion you actually want to sit still we will bust out the mess-free crayola kit and color. That activity usually lasts us all of five minutes. You've also really opened up in our Gymboree classes. You've begun participating in the organized activities, and even bust out a dance move or two during some of the songs.
There is only one show that you give two rips about, and that's Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. If it's not on then you could care less about TV, and that's just fine with me.

Attachement
There is clearly separation anxiety when either your dad or I leave you. When I need to go somewhere without you I have to sneak away. Even then, when you notice I'm gone you pitch a short-lived fit.

Food
Per the norm, you're still stuck on mac n cheese. You're enjoying eating hot dogs in hot dog buns. And dipping. Oh buddy, you love to dip food into ketchup. Fruits and veggies are rarely denied, but we're still working on getting you to each turkey and chicken.
I've found you eat best if I just let you graze throughout most of the day. The neighbors joke your nickname is "snacks," as I think you'd snack all day long if I let you.
Water and milk are the only fluids you consume. We've yet to introduce juices.

Sleep
With all the illnesses we've dealt with this month your sleep has been less than stellar. You've spent more nights in the rocking chair with your dad or me, rather than in your crib. I'm guessing this is mostly because it was/is easier to breathe while more upright. I'm also guessing you quickly formed a bad habit of simply wanting to be held. Even your naps were primarily spent with one of us rocking you.
When you're healthy, a typical night is going to bed around 7:45 and waking right around 6:00 (however this morning you thought 4:30 was a perfectly acceptable wake-up time).
Naps happen around 1:30/2:00, and you generally sleep for 1.5-2 hours.

Little man, your smile brightens even my cloudiest days. There is nothing more in the world that I love than how you fill my heart. Each morning when I wake, and each night before I close my eyes, I thank God that you have completed me in more ways than I ever dreamed possible. 

You're pretty awesome, Little Man. 

I love you to the moon and back. Twice.

Love,

Mommy