4 July 2007

 

Happy 4^th of July, everyone!

 

Silas has been very busy the last few months, so here are a few of the highlights…

 

«     The biggest news is that Silas turned two on June 20!!  He isn’t so much “terrible” as he is very strong-willed.  He’s still not speaking much but definitely knows exactly what he wants and how he wants it, and he has no trouble expressing it to us!  His worst attributes right now are hitting, biting (mostly me and Jayson), and throwing (not too often anymore).  He doesn’t really throw tantrums or anything like that; at least not yet!

«     Silas has also been peeing in the potty pretty regularly!  Every night we undress him for his bath and put him on the potty.  At first he would just get up and run all over the house – this kid loves being naked!  But now he will actually pee if he has to.  He hasn’t pooped yet, and we’re not putting any pressure on him.  He’s very good about letting us know if he needs his diaper changed.

«     Lately Silas has been pointing to his things and then pointing to himself, as if to say “mine.”  His favorite thing to point at is his pee pee, to which I usually respond, “Yes, I know it’s yours; it most certainly is not mine!”

«     My joy is finally complete because Silas is saying “Mama” now!!  His voice is so sweet and the way he says it just makes my heart melt.  He still says “Dada” all the time, but now I feel equally special!

«     Silas’s new thing is giving double hugs.  He’ll grab me and Jayson and put one arm around each of us and squeeze tightly, and then alternate giving us kisses.  He’s actually a very affectionate child when he’s not hitting or biting us!

«     This summer Silas is taking swim lessons and music classes.  In music class they get to sing songs, play with instruments like jingles, and play on the keyboards.  Silas is loving swim lessons; he especially loves to climb out and jump back into the pool.  What he doesn’t like is practicing floating on his back, but then again, none of the kids like that part!

«     Silas loves smelling flowers.  When we go to Mimi and Grandpa’s house he walks all around the garden, stopping and squatting down to lean into the flowers and take a whiff.  He makes the funniest sound when he’s doing it!

«     Silas loves to climb on the couch and throw himself onto the pillows.  The other day he figured out how to climb onto our bed, and I’ve never seen him more proud of himself!

«     Silas is an expert at opening caps that are not child-proof.  One day it was my vitamins.  Another time it was the orange juice – and he can open the refrigerator door by himself, too.  This week he came running up to me, whining and holding up his finger.  He had found the Vaseline, opened it, and stuck his finger inside.

«     At Silas’s two-year checkup he weighed in at 30 pounds (75^th percentile) and 36-1/2 inches tall (90^th percentile).  He is healthy and well!

«     We got Silas a swing set for his birthday and he loves to play on it.  Every night after dinner Daddy takes him out to the backyard and they play on the swings and sometimes play in the inflatable pool.  Silas loves the swings and will sit on them for over an hour at a time!

«     Silas loves to point to Daddy’s shaving cream and then rub his hands on his face!

«     Silas loves to rearrange things (like the contents of the pantry and his stuffed animals).  He also is very good at helping me put away the groceries – he’ll hand me each item out of the bags and he’ll even put some things in the refrigerator or pantry if I tell him where to put them.

«     Last month I was getting Silas shoes out of his closet when I heard him scream – I turned around and all I saw were his feet standing straight up in his hamper.  He must have been reaching in for something and fell head-first into the hamper!  He wasn’t hurt, just probably scared, but it was the funniest sight I had seen in a long time!

«     Silas hit a piñata for the first time (with Mommy’s help) at his friend Talia’s birthday party.  He was smiling from ear to ear!

«     Silas loves to pray with me and Jayson – but we have to all hold hands first!  He reminds me to pray even before snacks!  He also can climb into his chair and buckle himself in without any help, and after dinner he always takes his bib and runs to put it in his hamper!

«     Silas locked me out of the house last month.  I had run across the street to grab our neighbor’s mail since they were on vacation, and Silas turned the dead bolt on the front door!  Luckily Jayson was home to let me back in!

 

We’re terrified of, but looking forward to, what this next year will bring!  The “terrible twos” don’t seem too bad so far…

5 May 2007

 

I can’t believe it’s already May – Silas will be two years old next month!  That means it’s time to start planning another birthday party.  My baby has grown into an active little toddler.  I was looking at a picture the other day of Silas at about four or five months old, and I can’t believe how much he has changed.  He still has the same piercing eyes and serious expressions, but he’s such a big boy now!

 

Silas can now sign “more,” “please,” “thank you,” “all done,” “milk,” and “sorry.”  It’s great to see him use these signs on his own, without any prompting from me.  For example, when we leave Costco it’s his job to hand the receipt to the employee at the door.  When she gives the receipt back, Silas signs “thank you” on his own every time.  And lately if he throws something, he’s been quickly signing “sorry” to avoid a time-out!

 

He can also say a few more words.  He loves to say “Daddy” again and again!  He also says “bubba” for bubbles, “baaaaahhhhh” for ball, and still says “nana” for banana.  He also says “ah-ah” for uh-oh.  Not much, but it’s a start!

 

God answered a specific prayer recently – Silas has been eating really well the last few weeks!  He still sticks to what he knows, but he doesn’t fight me during meals, throw food, or spit food out.  Mealtimes are much less stressful and it makes me so happy to see him eating all or most of his food.

 

Silas has become a little mimic.  He imitates me yawning every morning by opening his mouth widely and throwing his arms up in the air.  And he especially loves to imitate everything Jayson does – whether it’s reading the newspaper or just sitting and resting his head on his hands.  It’s really sweet how much Silas loves his daddy.

 

One new thing that Silas loves to do is put Ellie to sleep.  Ellie is a stuffed elephant that’s about Silas’s size.  He takes her from the corner, throws her on the floor making sure she’s on her side, and pulls all of his blankets off his crib and covers her with them.  Then he puts his finger over his nose and makes a “shhhh” sound that sounds more like he’s snorting.

 

Another fun new thing Silas enjoys doing is putting everything he can get his hands on – toys, books, clothes, tissues – into his diaper pail.  I was emptying it the other day and found a bib and his new hat in there.  Lovely.

 

Silas has mastered the Stevie Wonder dance.  When there’s a song on that he likes, he weaves and bobs his head exactly like Stevie Wonder.  It is hilarious!  He’s also becoming very independent and stubborn.  We went for a walk and it was over 90 degrees outside, but he insisted on wearing his sweater.  He wore it the entire time we were out.

 

The other day I walked into the living room and there was a different dvd playing than the one I had put in earlier!  Silas has figured out how to take one out and put a new one in, and press play.  He also insists on putting the dvds back into their cases.  He’s very orderly!

 

I’m exhausted, but every day is an adventure!!

March 31, 2007

 

We're back from Hawaii and we survived!  Silas did great while we were away - he ate well, slept well, and was a very good boy at Christie's and at Mimi's homes.  Christie spoiled Silas rotten and took him to very cool places every day - the park, Chuck-E-Cheese, and day care to play with Jett.  Silas loved playing with their dog, Ty, too.  I, however, missed him terribly!  We had fun in Maui and it was a very pretty place, but a week was too long to be gone from Silas!

 

Jayson pulled Silas's pack-n-play from our attic and it is Silas's "time out" spot.  I've only had to use it a couple of times, once when he hit a friend during play group, once when he bit my shoulder, and once when he kept hitting the blinds.  I put him in it for one minute, and he absolutely hates it!  I go into another room while he's in it, so he's there alone and he screams the whole time.  But it really works.  I don't think Silas has hit any kids since that last time-out!

 

Silas had his first crayon-on-the-floor moment a few weeks ago.  I came into the kitchen and he had scribbled all over the floor and on the dining room chair cushion in green crayon.  Luckily it wiped right off.  He's definitely becoming more adventurous around the house!  He still insists on closing all the doors, and last week he pulled my jewelry box off my dresser and onto the floor - the jewelry went everywhere!

 

Silas's new thing now is kissing on both cheeks.  He doesn't pucker; he'll just put his mouth against your cheek (sometimes with teeth!), and then point to your other cheek and kiss that one, too.  He's definitely Armenian!  He also likes to take us by the hand and lead us all over the place.  He's figured out how to turn the tv on and off (both on the tv and with the remote), and he insists on closing the garage door himself, so when we pull out onto the driveway, we give him the button and he pushes it to shut the garage door.

 

At the mall Silas and Jett both freaked out when the Easter bunny approached them, so I don't think we're going to get a picture this year...

 

Since Silas isn't talking much, our pediatrician suggested we teach him a few signs so he can at least learn manners (please, thank you, etc).  I started with the sign for "more" and he repeated it instantly.  He's doing really well with asking for "more" during meals and for toys, so our next sign is "please." 

 

At the Little Gym Silas is much more comfortable and likes to explore the various areas - last week he swung on the bars by himself, walked on the beam, and rolled on the big doughnut.  He still loves the balls and the bubbles, too.  This morning we went to an Easter Egg Hunt at Northwest Church, and they had two bounce houses there and Silas couldn't wait to get inside!

 

Silas is so much fun and I love my time with him.  He's hilarious and smart and entertaining, curious and such a fast learner.  What a blessing!

6 March 2007

 

Today is Jayson's birthday - We celebrated by taking Silas to the dentist for the first time!  Two days ago he was going up and down the curb at Mimi's house, and of course he was carrying a book in each hand.  He lost his balance and fell, scraping his chin against the curb.  We scooped him up and noticed that he also chipped the bottom of his top two teeth.  So the dentist checked him out and said all is fine.  There is no nerve damage, and the jagged edges will smooth themselves out with chewing and eating over the next week or so.  Good thing all Dr. Nahigian needed was a quick look, because Silas was extremely squirmy!

 

I am so happy to report that Silas's sleeping is back on track!  We even took him over to my sister-in-law's house tonight for a sleepover as a practice run before we leave for Hawaii next week.  She said he cried for about three seconds after she put him down and then he was out!  I hope he continues this way while we're gone, or we'll have to re-retrain him all over again!

 

Silas has finally taken an interest in imitating the dance moves on the Taline dvds.  I'll be feeding him a snack and notice him doing something wierd with his arms or hands; then I'll turn around and see that Taline's doing the same thing!  He also likes covering his eyes with his hands and "hiding" from us as we ask "Where's Silas?!?"  It's so cute because he's totally peeking through his fingers!

 

Silas really doesn't like the changing table anymore.  When it's time to change a diaper or get dressed, he sprawls out on the floor in his room.  But he's quick, and smart, and knows that he can roll over and run away from me while I'm grabbing a wipe!  There's nothing funnier than watching Silas run down the hall with a bare butt!

 

During bathtime Silas always asks for a soap crayon and really enjoys drawing on the tub.  I would say he's more of an abstract artist.  And when he's done, he always gives the crayon back to me and points to the counter where we keep them.  He's very good about things going where they belong!

 

Silas insists on closing doors - in our house, at the mall, at church - anywhere we go.  The doors must be closed!  He also takes his shoes off all the time.  Especially in the car.  But he can also reach over while he's in his stroller and get them off.  He's very crafty, this one!

 

Silas still loves reading and is so smart about it!  He has these two bear books from a series, and if I read one while he's looking at the other one, he makes me stop and read the right one to him!  If we skip a page and I keep reading, he makes me stop and go back to the page we missed.  And if I'm reading from a different location than where he is looking at the book (I know most of his books by heart), he follows along on the correct pages!  I can usually find where he is in the house by following the trail of books he leaves behind!

 

The terrible twos are starting...  Silas is becoming very aggressive lately.  He's been slapping our faces and pulling my hair.  He usually only does it when he's very tired or very excited.  It's very frustrating, because any reaction we give him just prompts him to do it more.  So I'm trying my very best to stay calm, say "NO," and immediately distract him.  I just keep praying for patience!

 

Next week we'll be in Hawaii - without Silas!  I know he'll be fine... It's ME I'm worried about!

19 February 2007

 

Silas will be 20 months old tomorrow.  It's almost time to start thinking about his second birthday.  Our days (and nights!) are long, but the years are going by so quickly!

 

This has been a very rough winter - Silas has another cold!  It seems that this one came out of nowhere, but most of my friends with young children are experiencing this, too, so it must be making its rounds again.  Silas was up most of last night with a slight fever and cough, and was pretty out of it today, but hopefully it won't last long.  Today was Mimi's birthday and we went to Jett's house to celebrate.  Silas just wanted to go up and down the stairs.  He really loves stairs!  And shutting doors.  He insists on closing every door - even at friends' homes, church, or at the store.

 

Silas's sleeping has gotten better, but he still wants me with him until he drifts off.  I've tried letting him cry it out a few times, but he flips onto his hands and knees, making it very hard to fall asleep in that position!  But we're definitely improving.

 

Silas is finally coloring with crayons and not eating them!  We have soap crayons that he plays with in the tub, so he's gotten used to holding them properly and drawing all sorts of lines and squiggles.  He's definitely into modern art!

 

Something new and fun that Silas is doing now is the hand motion to "Itsy Bitsy Spider."  He never cared to do it before, but has really been enjoying the song lately.  A not-so-fun thing Silas is doing lately is gagging himself with his fingers.  He even made himself throw up once.  I just try to distract him as quickly as I can, because if I react he wants to do it again and again.

 

This weekend we went up to the mountains so Silas could play in the snow for the first time in his life.  Well, he's definitely his mother's son because he HATED the snow.  It could have been that he wasn't feeling well, but he didn't even want to step on it!  He wanted Jayson to hold him the whole time.  Jayson even made him a snowman, but all he wanted was to play with the car's doors.  Typical!

1 February 2007

 

Silas is growing and changing – It seems he doesn’t want to nap anymore!  At almost 19-1/2 months old, he still needs his naps (and so do I!).  This all started while I was in Boston two weekends ago.  He refused to nap the entire time I was gone.  And now he doesn’t want to go to bed at night, either.  I used to be able to do our routine, put him in the crib, and walk out, and he would drift off to sleep on his own.  But no more!  He flips over onto all fours and cries until I come back.  So I literally have to stay with him until he falls asleep.  This takes anywhere from ten minutes to an hour.  I’m trying to be very consistent and patient and get him back on track!

 

Silas’s OCD is in full effect!  He hates having anything on his hands – whether it’s crumbs during lunch or soap suds during his bath.  He holds out his hands until we clean them off.  He’s also figured out how to sniffle, so he’ll grab a tissue and start wiping his nose (and his pants, and the floor).  When he pulls the books off the bookshelf and I put them back, he insists on pushing them in all the way so they’re all even.

 

Silas has a little cold, which is almost over.  As a result, in the last week or so I have been pooped on, peed over, puked around, and wiped with snot.  Isn’t being a mom so glamorous?

 

When we are at Mimi and Grandpa Jerry’s house Silas goes to the high chair and wants to sit in it.  He doesn’t necessarily want to eat – he just wants to sit in that particular high chair!  Grandpa always obliges him.

 

Silas finally said a word!!!  He loves bananas, the little monkey, so he now says “yanana” for banana.  Hey, I say it counts!  And he understands everything.  He can be very obedient when he wants to be, like when I ask him to bring me things or pick up his toys.  And when I ask him if he has pee pee, he points to his crotch.

 

A few weeks ago we were at Mimi & Grandpa’s with Jett.  Jett was running sprints back and forth when Silas, completely out of the blue, shoved him with both arms as he was running by.  It was a startling, yet hilarious, random act of violence!

 

We had our first Little Gym class last Saturday and Silas loved it!  We jumped, played with balls, bubbles, and a huge parachute, and practiced hanging on the bar and doing log rolls (side rolls).  Sometimes he would just stand there and laugh out loud at everything happening around him!

 

Silas can drink from a straw now.  He went from chewing on it, to tipping it upside down and letting the water roll into his mouth, to finally sucking water from it.  He’s a very methodical learner.  He’s also showing more interest in trying to feed himself.  He’ll hold his own spoon and eat – that is, when he’s not throwing everything.  I’m so tired of picking everything up!

7 January 2007

 

Happy New Year!

 

Silas has learned something new - how to pick his nose.  Well, he doesn't actually pick it.  He just sticks his finger up there for a while.  It's pretty funny.  He's also been lying on the floor a lot.  The other day he was lying on the bathroom floor "reading" my Bible.

 

I think Silas is allergic to tomatoes!  I knew he didn't like them, but it had been a long time so I gave him a veggie and chicken stew with a tomato base, and he threw up after the second bite.  He also doesn't like bubbles in the bath anymore.  He kept trying to wipe them off his hands!

 

Silas has two new teeth coming in!  They're his upper two cuspids (or "fangs" as I like to call them).  They're not all the way in, but they have definitely broken through.  His gums must be itchy because he is biting everything!  The other day we went to Pump It Up, which is a place for kids that has these inflatable bounce houses, slides, and obstacle courses.  Silas was a bit overwhelmed and hesitant at first, but once he got used to it he really started to enjoy himself.  When it was time to leave I had him by the hand because he kept running off, and he actually bit my hand so I would let go - twice!  He's bitten me before but never with any intent! 

 

I forgot how tall Silas is sometimes and how far he can reach.  He got into his Daddy's bathroom drawer this week, found the floss, and started pulling all the string out.  He was flinging it around like a yo-yo!

30 December 2006

 

Merry Christmas everyone!  We've had a very busy few weeks.  Christmas was a lot of fun, even though Silas didn't really understand any of it.  He didn't care for the tree, decorations, or even gifts.  He did enjoy hanging out with his cousin, though.  Maybe next year these boys will figure out what's going on!

 

Silas is a squirming worm on the changing table.  He actually leads me there and points to it when he wants his diaper changed, but when he's up there, all he tries to do is get off!  He flings his legs over the side, wiggles from side to side (I call it his diaper dance), and tries to pull off his socks.  I never knew I could break a sweat changing a diaper.

 

Silas's favorite toys continue to be the shape sorter and the nesting dolls my in-laws brought back from Russia.  Oh, and he still throws everything on the floor, of course.  He likes his dancing Tigger; he carries it around the house with him and throws him on the floor, of course.  If I need the remote control or something off the coffee table, I know where to look for it.  On the floor.  Of course.

 

Now that Silas is 18 months old I'm noticing some changes.  For one thing, he is definitely babbling a lot more.  He still grunts, but he's developing his own little language.  He has also finally warmed up to his Grandpa Jerry!  He is 34 inches tall (90th percentile!) - he grew three inches in the last three months - and he weighs 26 pounds (50th percentile).  Doctor Gonzalez said he is very healthy!  Praise God!

11 December 2006

 

My mother-in-law has told me that Jayson went through a phase when he was young of breaking at least one thing in their house every day for a long time!  Silas isn't that bad (yet), but he did break his very first thing in our house - a wine glass!  He tipped it out of a cabinet in the kitchen and it broke, but luckily I was right there to whisk him away so I could clean it up.  He hasn't broken anything since, and I hope it stays that way!

 

I'm currently working on teaching Silas to drink from a straw.  He loves to hold the cup and chew on the straw, but he's not sucking on it yet.  I pulled out the crayons today and he still wouldn't draw with them.  He just moved them from one side of the floor to the other (he is SO OCD!).  And then I noticed that his teeth were black.  Turns out he find the black crayon quite tasty.  So the crayons got put away again.

 

Silas is a pretty fearless kid, but I discovered last week something that he definitely does not like - elevators!  We used one at the mall and he cried while we were on it.  Fortunately we only had to go up one floor!

 

Mr. Picky Eater is still making me crazy.  He had a bowl of grapes for lunch yesterday.  Grapes!  Last week I made him three different meals for dinner and he barely ate any of them.  And to make matters worse, he took his greasy little hand and smacked me across the forehead while I was trying to clean him up.  I just walked away and cried.  He'll definitely get punished at some point in the future for that one, like when he's 18.

 

I've decorated our tree, but Silas has barely noticed.  Why do I bother worrying???

4 December 2006

 

Silas has decided he doesn't want to nap in the morning anymore, so now we nap in the afternoon instead.  He's very decisive, and once he makes up his mind about something, there's no going back.  This can't be a good sign of things to come, and I hesitate to think about his teenage years.  But I won't get ahead of myself.

 

Silas loves pulling the pillows off the couch onto the floor and throwing himself on them.  He's so funny!  Then he puts them back on the couch, pulls them back off, and on and off.  I think he's a little OCD and I know it comes from me!  Jayson and I are both pretty detail-oriented, so I guess it's only natural that he be a bit meticulous!  He's getting good at picking up and putting things back, if I ask him.

 

In addition to throwing dirty clothes from his hamper onto the floor, Silas now enjoys emptying the pantry.  One by one he picks up items from the pantry shelves and places them on the kitchen floor.  Such a joy!

 

We put up our Christmas tree and lights, but no ornaments yet.  Silas doesn't seem too interested!  Christie and I took the boys to the mall yesterday to get a picture with Santa, and both boys freaked out when we tried to put them on Santa's lap.  I guess we'll have to go another day and try again!  Silas got a balloon at the mall and was hugging it all day long.  He even hugged it with one arm and held his cup with this other hand.  Such a multi-tasker!

 

He is such a joy and I can't believe he's already 17-1/2 months old.  I'm blessed to be able to be home with him.  I wish he would learn to talk, because the grunting is just LOUD all day long!  But I am definitely learning to be patient!

26 November 2006

 

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my in-laws' last week.  It was relaxing and fun and we just ate and sat around.  Silas was very affectionate and gave Jerry's daughters lots of hugs!  Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday, and we have so much to be thankful for - God's blessings are abundant!

 

Silas has a new favorite game - taking all of his dirty clothes out of his hamper and throwing them on the floor.  He also likes to chew on his socks.  I guess he doesn't get the concept of "dirty." 

 

We left Silas for the first time in his 17 months for a weekend getaway to San Francisco for our 5th wedding anniversary on the 10th.  It was hard leaving him, but he had no problem saying goodbye!  He stayed with my in-laws and did fine while we were gone.  I missed him terribly, but we enjoyed our weekend away.  It was so nice to be able to go out without a stroller, diaper bag, snacks, sippy cup, toys, books, and various other baby paraphernalia.

 

Silas is finally waving, but only does it selectively.  No words yet, either.  Sometimes when I ask him to say something, or repeat after me, he gives me this sly grin, as if to say, "I can if I want to but I don't want to!"  Tonight we even set up his potty, but haven't started training him yet.  Silas can also put his hands together when it's time to pray.

 

We haven't put up our Christmas tree yet, but I'm nervous about how Silas will do around it.  I'm afraid he may attack it or, at the very least, pull off the ornaments.  But we stopped by my in-laws' a couple of days ago and she had her's up and he went up and tried to touch it.  I told him no.  He went up to it again, and I told him no again.  And then he lost interest and walked away.  We've been there several times since, and he hasn't gone near the tree once.  That gives me hope that we won't have to secure our tree to the wall for fear of Silas knocking it over!

 

We were driving home from Target the other day when a lady turned without signaling, and I said, "You should signal, lady!  DUH!" and then Silas said, "duh" after me!!  But Jayson is trying to teach him "doh!" instead. (Simpson's reference)

 

Silas got me and Jayson sick this week, so we're all a little out of it.  Luckily it's not too heavy, but hopefully we'll all be feeling better soon.  Let the Christmas craziness begin!

7 November 2006

 

We went to vote tonight - Silas hasn't missed a year yet!  He went a little crazy when we walked in because there were flags at the entrance, and he loves flags!

 

Halloween was a lot of fun!  Silas was R2D2.  Jayson and I really aren't into Star Wars, but the costume was too cute to pass up.  We went to Mimi & Grandpa Jerry's to take pictures with Jett (he was a certified angus beef cow), and then we went to the Harvest Festival at church.  It was nearing Silas's bedtime, so he fell asleep in the car!  We were a little surprised because I can't remember the last time he fell asleep in the car!  But once we got to church he perked up and really enjoyed himself.  He was running all over the fellowship hall, approaching random children, and intermittently pulling off his hat.  He even went up to one poor boy twice his size and took a potato chip out of the kid's hand!  Silas really wanted to go into the bounce houses, but he was just too small.  Maybe next year!

 

Silas has been eating really well this past week, and I hope it continues!  I cannot believe how much happier I am that he's just eating without a fuss!  Mealtimes were becoming extremely stressful, and now I don't even have to sing or tell a story to get him to eat!  I still have some tricks to get him to eat new foods, but overall he is doing so well.  He tried cucumbers this week and didn't really like them.  And he still doesn't like tomatoes!  But today he had pork for the first time and ate it up.

 

Silas has been very vocal lately, pointing and grunting constantly.  He's not saying any words yet, but it seems as though he really wants to express himself verbally.  He understands everything we say and obeys us most of the time.  He's a real bundle of energy, too - last night he was running laps up and down our hallway!  I love the pitter patter of his little feet!

31 October 2006

 

Last week was a very tough week for Silas!  His upper molars started to come in, and he had a low-grade fever on and off for the whole week.  He also lost his appetite, which was especially difficult for me.  One day he only ate half of an english muffin and 10 cheerios.  I almost lost it!  But thankfully he's much better now.  The teeth are completely in, and he's still a little clingy, but overall he's back to himself. 

 

We don't have any stairs at our home so Silas is fascinated when we go somewhere and he sees stairs.  Daddy has helped him learn to climb them by himself, but he still needs help on the way down.  He still loves flags - his buddy Aren bought one for him and he loves playing with it at home.  I tried getting him to color with some fat crayons, but he wasn't too interested.  He's also gotten much better brushing his teeth - he opens his mouth for me and even likes to hold the toothbrush himself.

 

At church last Sunday Silas did ok without his morning nap until we went into the Fellowship Hall's Narthex.  He pulled the crochet tablecloth sitting on the piano and the glass bowl and vase on top came crashing down and shattered all over the floor.  He was scared but wasn't hurt - thank God.  I think I was more traumatized than he was!!

 

Silas is eating much better, in terms of chewing and biting.  He holds his own sandwiches now and takes bites from them, and I can give him whole goldfish and crackers without breaking them into pieces first.  New foods he has tried are peanut butter, grapes, regular oatmeal, and jello!

21 October 2006

 

Silas is 16 months old!  And he's definitely showing it.  He's becoming more independent, more inquisitive, more curious to explore, and more intelligent each day. 

 

My friend Tina and I took our boys to TCBY for some frozen yogurt this week.  They ate all their yogurt and then started running around the store.  Well, Silas was, and Aren followed - I think Silas is going to corrupt that innocent child!  Silas was approaching everyone, entertaining a table of teenagers, and made his way down the hall to find the women's bathroom.  Silas and Aren were interacting with each other much more, and that was fun to watch!

 

It seems to me that Silas is making more of an effort to communicate.  He points with his hand at almost everything and everyone (not just dogs and flags), and is constantly grunting and babbling.  No new words yet, but we're getting closer.

 

A few days ago Silas was naked in the bathroom waiting for his bath.  Instead of watching the water fill the tub like he usually does, for the first time ever he walked over to the toilet and peed on the floor!  We were surprised (ready for potty training?!?!) and he started to laugh at our reaction.  But then he slipped on his pee and fell flat on his face!  His upper teeth and nose were bleeding!  He was ok, though - nothing loose or broken, thank God!!

 

So we went to Babies R Us today and bought Silas his first potty.  I think it's still a little early and he's not quite ready yet, but I'd like to have it in the bathroom so he starts getting used to the idea.  And maybe not pee on the floor anymore!

14 October 2006

 

OK, we've figured out what Silas will be for Halloween and have the costume, but Jayson wants it to be a surprise.  So stay tuned and pictures will be up after the 31st!

 

Silas really seems to be growing lately.  He's sleeping a lot more than usual and seems to have a bigger appetite.  Last time I weighed him he was 26 pounds - I can feel it when I carry him!  For example last night he slept for over 12-1/2 hours, and then napped for 2-1/2 hours today!  For breakfast he ate cereal, toast, and fruit; for lunch he had chicken with noodles and veggies; and for dinner he had fish (tilapia), tater tots, some bread and cheese, and a cereal bar for dessert.  What a piglet!  (Remember the days when I actually worried about his weight???)

 

Silas has another new tooth (10 total), and our big news is that we've started brushing!  Silas loves it, although he does close his mouth around the toothbrush and I can't see what I'm brushing!  The other day after his bath he started pointing toward the sink, and when I turned to look I realized he was pointing to his toothbrush because I had forgotten to brush his teeth after dinner!

 

Flags are Silas's latest obsession.  Any time he sees a flag he reaches out toward it and yells.  He can see them miles away!  And he points out every flag we pass during our morning walk.  I guess he's extremely patriotic!

 

Things with Salpi (Silas's girlfriend) are getting pretty hot and heavy - at our last play date he actually walked over and gave her a hug!  All on his own!  He has never done that before with any child!!  What a stud.  (Her mom and I ran for our cameras, but alas, we missed the photo op.)

 

When Silas poops I joke with him that he has a "stinker."  So now, every time he poops I say, "Who has a stinker?!?" and he runs to his room and stands in front of his changing table! 

 

We went to the park a couple of times this week and Silas LOVES the swings!  He's not crazy about the slides yet, but the swings are a definite favorite.  We took him to feed the ducks in the pond today, and every time Jayson gave him bread to throw to the ducks, he would eat it himself!  Poor duckies didn't get any bread.

1 October 2006

 

I can't believe it's already October, and we still don't know what Silas should be for Halloween!  I don't particularly like this holiday, but our church has a Harvest Festival every year, so it's a safe place for kids to be.  We were thinking of dressing him up like a mini-guido (shirt buttoned down to waist, fake chest hair, gold chains), but we're not completely sold on it yet.  Any ideas?

 

Silas is almost over a little cold - I guess it's the season!  Praise God he doesn't get sick very often.  Our pediatrician said most kids his age get sick once a month, but Silas has only been sick once before (when he was 8 months old).  He had a slight fever one day, but it wasn't too bad.  Unfortunately he gave his cold to me!  But I would much rather be sick than have him sick!

 

We took Silas to Dr. Gonzalez for his 15 month checkup and he said Silas looks great!  He hasn't gained any weight since his last visit, but then again, he wasn't very mobile then!  He has also grown an inch.  I'm really not anxious about Silas's weight anymore, which is a huge weight off my chest (pun intended).

 

Every day it's something new, and lately Silas has been howling like a coyote.  I don't know where he picked this up, but it is absolutely hilarious!  He first did it at the grocery store, so it was just a bit embarrassing!  He also pulled his cousin Jett's ear at a restaurant (that's the last time we'll put those two next to each other!  I was mortified!).

 

Silas looooooooooves Taline's dvd and songs - "Hink Pokrig Patigner" is his favorite.  He stands spellbound in front of the tv (it's the only thing he watches) and tries to reach up and touch the kids onscreen.  (My favorite is "Andarin Mech," if you're wondering.)

 

Three new teeth bring the total to nine in Silas's mouth, and he definitely knows how to use them!  I don't think he realizes how much it hurts when he bites!!  Two of his bottom molars came in, too.  I was looking at some old pictures of Silas with a gummy smile - he looks so different with teeth!

Silas went to the zoo for the first time last week with Jett - it was so much fun!  He saw elephants, giraffes, sea lions, monkeys, panthers, tigers, and his favorite - flamingos! 

11 September 2006

 

Yesterday was Rally Day at church (the kick-off to a new Sunday School year) and we had a big carnival at church.  Daddy took Silas into the bounce house and Silas even got his face painted!  It was a fun morning, and then we went to Mimi  & Grandpa Jerry's house to celebrate Grandparents Day!

 

Silas is running like a pro now!  We got him some snazzy sneakers and he looks like a little man.  It takes him a while to get used to them when I first put them on, because he's so used to being barefoot.  He stumbles around for a little while and then he's fine. 

 

Napping has been a little erratic lately.  He's going down a little later than usual in the mornings, and sometimes resisting completely.  I tried to give him one nap a day, but that didn't really work.  We're just taking it day by day until we find our groove again.

 

One morning a few days ago I was getting ready in the bathroom and Silas walked in and I told him, "Mommy's almost done and then we're going to have devotions."  He walked out of the bathroom and came in a minute later carrying my Bible!  He had gone over to my nightstand and brought it for me!

 

Silas is finally saying "Mama" and it melts my heart every time!  He's definitely starting to make more sounds (ba and ga) and has become very vocal lately.  It will be fun when he starts talking and expressing himself verbally.  At least then he'll be able to tell us what he wants and we won't have to guess!

 

Silas doesn't just plop down on his butt anymore when he wants to sit down.  He now bends one leg under and sits down easily.  This may not be a big deal to some, but it really shows to me how he's growing and changing and beginning to think about what he's doing.  He'll often sit on the floor facing my bed and "call" to me, thinking a ball rolled under the bed.  Somehow he manages to get it to the exact center spot under the bed.  I keep a broomstick handy.

 

Another tooth came in on the bottom of Silas's mouth, so he's up to seven now!

 

On Saturday we took Silas to the park.  He was so funny!  He kept picking up his ball from the grass and taking it to the concrete.  Every time it rolled onto the grass, he would go and get it and bring it back to the concrete!  I think it's because the ball doesn't bounce on the grass!  But Jayson said it was all my fault and that I turned him against nature!  (I have to admit I'm not really the outdoorsy type!)

25 August 2006

 

Today marks the 10^th anniversary of my mother, Eugeny Maserejian’s death.  Ten years…  It seems like a long time, and yet just an instant.  My mother was a force of nature – a wife, mother, sister, aunt, hairdresser, entrepreneur, and friend.  Despite many hardships in her life, she was the most optimistic person I knew, and always a peacemaker.

 

Scleroderma is the disease that took her life.  A word no one had heard of; a word that still makes me shudder.  Only 49, she was too young to leave us.  But, as the Psalmist wrote, “All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be” (139:16).  I know and believe that she lived exactly as long as God had planned for her, and I know exactly where she is now, in heaven with Jesus Christ, whom she loved.

 

Instead of mourning her today, I want to celebrate my mother, because she was so full of life.  Every day with her was a vibrant one.  Her eyes sparkled and her smile could light up a room.  I am so blessed to have such amazing memories of her, and I want to share some of them with you.

 

"         Although my mom had a sweet tooth and could make a mean paklava, she was pretty health-conscious.  While watching television or when family came over, we would eat fruits and vegetables.  One night, while watching Jean de Florette (one of many foreign films I imposed on my parents, who would have watched an Icelandic documentary if it meant having me home on a Friday night), my mother was peeling and slicing cucumbers for us to munch on during the film.  I watched as she cut each cucumber in half lengthwise, gave one half to me, and then sliced the other half into half, and shared that with my father.  This was one of many subtle yet significant ways that she always gave her children more than she gave herself.

"         My mother was a hairdresser who ran a successful salon (Jenny’s Hair Design at 241 Belmont Street).  She made her clients feel beautiful on the inside and out, and was their confidante and friend.  A longtime client came in very sad one day because her dog had died, and although my mom liked animals, she commented that it was “just a dog.”  This client took great offense to her statement, and my mother felt so badly that she actually went out after work, bought a gift and found a doggy sympathy card, and delivered it herself to this client’s home.

"         Speaking of hair, my mother was the official family hairstylist.  With 21 first cousins in two states, as well as aunts, uncles, grandparents, and extended relatives, she had her hands full (literally!).  As a child my mother had some sort of fascination with Dorothy Hamill, and as you probably guessed, projected her fascination onto all of the young females in our family!  We all had the figure skater’s hairdo at some point in our childhood.  I still remember my cousin Suzy crying in the corner after my mother cut her waist-length hair into the famous bob.

"         My mother never knew how to swim.  I remember walking into her bedroom once when I was in junior high, only to find her lying on the ironing board taking swim instructions from my sister, who also didn’t know how to swim.  It was quite the scene.  Years later, we found out my determined mother was taking swim lessons at the Boys & Girls Club without telling any of us.

"         My mom was a hairdresser who made housecalls.  I remember going with her on several occasions to style the hair of elderly ladies who couldn’t leave the house or a family friend at the hospital being treated for breast cancer.  She would even go to my grandfather’s house every Monday (her day off) to shave his face when he wasn’t able to anymore.

"         Mom had a way of cajoling me and my sister into joining her various projects.  One was to make mante.  For the non-Armenians reading this, mante is an Armenian food similar to meat ravioli, eaten in a broth.  This became an all-day project as we made the dough, rolled it out, cut it up, placed the meat on each one, and pinched them shut.  So much work, only to be eaten and finished in one meal!

"         We would travel to New Jersey at least once a month when I was young to visit my mom’s side of the family (grandma and three uncles and their families).  It was about a four-hour ride.  I loved when my mom would make us sandwiches during the drive with pita bread, Armenian cheese, and cucumbers.  I guess we ate a lot of cucumbers back in the day!  My dad always drove, though, as my mom didn’t drive on the highway.  Every time we would pass a huge truck she would literally duck down in her seat.  Maybe she was afraid it would topple onto us???

"         My mother hated sad or scary movies.  She always, always said, “Let’s watch something happy!”  I used to laugh, because the sad or scary movies were usually fake, and I didn’t understand what the big deal was.  I have to admit, though, that I am exactly the same way now!  I guess I’ve learned that life has enough drama on its own – we don’t need extra, especially if it’s supposed to be entertainment.  And every time she saw Yoda from Star Wars on television, she would say, “wjaah,” which I think means “ugly” or “gross” in Arabic.  She really didn’t like Yoda.

"         My mother-in-law would have loved my mom.  For one thing, they are the same height (5’ even).  Another thing they had in common is cutting up pictures.  By this I mean that my mom would cut around people’s heads and put the pictures that way into our albums.  I guess she didn’t like backgrounds – her focus always was on people!  My mother-in-law has a similar technique for her photos and scrapbooks!

"         Shalimar by Guerlain.  This was my mother’s signature scent.  Very classy.  Very her.

 

Thanks for the memories, Mommy!  I love you.

 

 

P.S.  If any of you have fond or funny memories of my mother, I would love to hear them!  Please e-mail them to me at hyestar@hotmail.com.

22 August 2006

 

Silas had picked the scientific calculator during his hadeeg a while back, but I really think he may end up being a preacher.  Every Sunday at church he insists on walking up to the altar!  He loves climbing the two steps and walking all over the altar.  He's very comfortable and doesn't want to come down.  We'll have to wait about 25 years to find out, I guess.

 

We had our first sleepover with cousin Jett last week!  He spent the night and we had a great time - what a sweet nephew!  Silas's schedule didn't quite match his, so they didn't see each other until the morning, but it was fun nonetheless.

 

Jayson installed the cabinet closures (see previous entry) and now Silas gets annoyed that he can't open the cabinet doors.  He discovered how to pull the toilet paper roll so that's been fun. 

 

Silas also likes to multi-read.  This means he gets two to three books going simultaneously.  He lays them out on the ottoman in his room, and very seriously and furiously begins flipping the pages, alternating between books.  Sometimes when I read him a story he likes to hold another book and read that one at the same time.  He's so hilarious.

 

Peas are Silas's newest favorite food.  He picks them out and eats them first.  I'm not complaining!  I love peas, too.  He still doesn't like anything that has to do with tomatoes.  I tried giving him eech yesterday (bulghur with tomatoes) and he spit it right out.

 

Silas is 14 months this week.  He's so much fun to be with, and I love every minute I spend with him.  The throwing?  No.  The pulling-out-single-strands-of-my-hair?  No.  But I still wouldn't trade any of it for the world.

(Fathers Note: I love Silas more..if you could only be in my shoes when I come home. This kid knows how to give a hug. I don't know what I would do without him. He shows his love to me so much and that makes everything in my day go away. He loves it when I lay down on my back on the ground and he comes running over and jumps on top of me. He lays all over me and loves to have me hang him upside down and swing him around...what a joy!!!)

10 August 2006

 

It's funny what we consider "BIG NEWS" lately.  Forget the Lebanese-Israeli conflit - Silas is no longer on the bottle!!  That's right, he's now drinking his milk from a sippy cup.  No more bottles to wash - yeah!  He's constantly in motion, even when he drinks.  He holds the cup to his mouth with one hand and walks all over the house.

 

Silas's balance is much better in terms of getting up, walking around, and bending over to pick up objects.  The only thing now is that he doesn't always watch where he's going.  Or, he'll bend down to pick up a ball and he's so focused on the ball that he doesn't realize there's an ottoman in front of him, and he ends up bruising his face. 

 

It's becoming harder to get Silas down for his naps.  He's fighting them.  I wouldn't mind combining them or even giving them up, but he's cranky and hyper-sensitive when he doesn't nap, so I know he still needs them.  It's frustrating for both of us, but I'm just praying every morning for an extra dose of patience from God!

 

Silas is getting better at expressing his desires, even though he's not speaking yet.  He brings us books that he wants us to read to him and reaches up when he wants to get on our laps.  He's really very curious, thoughtful, and intelligent.  He understands most of what we tell him, but he's still mischievous when he wants to be. 

 

This morning Silas decided he needed a shave and reached into Daddy's bathroom cabinet to pull out the shaving cream.  He was at the toilet about to drop it in when I caught it.  I think it's time to put on those cabinet safety closures!  He definitely keeps me on my toes!

3 August 2006

 

Last weekend was so much fun.  On Saturday we went up to Bass Lake and spent the day with T.J., Christie and Jett.  Silas had fun walking on the deck, going out to the docks with Daddy to watch the ducks, and playing with his cousin.  Then on Sunday we celebrated Jett's first birthday with a pool party.  The best part was seeing Jett enjoy his first piece of cake!

 

Last year at this time Silas was almost 6 weeks old.  I still think of him as my baby!  The other day we were watching a video tape of Jayson wakeboarding, and at the end of it there was some footage of Christmastime.  Seeing Silas barely able to sit up reminded me that he was a baby then, not now!  He's really a toddler now and looks and acts like a little boy.  I still can't believe it sometimes.

 

Silas definitely does not like tomatoes.  I tried giving him a piece of english muffin pizza, and he gagged and threw up.  He hadn't even swallowed it - it was sitting on his tongue!  Silas definitely knows what he likes and dislikes - no gray areas!  I wonder where he gets THAT from!  He's really into "Pat the Bunny" now, too.  He can pat the bunny and play peek-a-boo with Paul, but he's not into touching daddy's scratchy face or putting his finger through mummy's ring.  I guess you have to know the book to understand what I'm talking about!  But Silas just loves it.

 

Silas loves getting rides on the trike he got for his birthday from Mimi and Grandpa Jerry.  Jayson tied a rope to the front to make it easier to pull around.  Every time Silas wants a ride, he walks up to the trike, taps on the handle bars, and looks at us.  I'm not as good with the sound effects as Jayson, though!

28 July 2006

 

We are really having a fun summer!  Silas loves to swim, and although we don't have a pool, several friends have been so kind to open up their homes and backyards to us!  We have gone swimming at my friend Tina's parents' home, and at John & Suzi Martin's home.  Silas loves splashing in the water and has fun when we pull him through as if he's swimming.  He is also getting used to the floaty seat Vahe and Ani sent for his birthday.

 

Speaking of Vahe and Ani, Silas is going to have a new cousin next March!!!!!  We are counting down the days and are praying for a healthy and uncomplicated pregnancy for Ani!  And I get to be a mokoor!!!

 

Silas loves to close things - doors, drawers, the refrigerator.  The other day he was in his room and closed the door and couldn't get out!  I was putting something away in our linen closet and he closed the door on me.  Do I sense some early OCD?  No doubt he gets that from me!

 

Silas got a magnet farm set for his birthday, and he loves it (and so do I!).  We keep it on our fridge and it occupies him while I put away groceries or get his meals ready.  Except he keeps trying to put the magnets up everywhere, like the patio door, the walls, and Daddy's face.  He doesn't quite get the concept yet...

 

It's been super hot here and we're very thankful that it's finally cooling down.  It's supposed to be 96 degrees tomorrow - that's practically winter compared to what we've had!  Several weeks of 100+ temperatures, and last weekend it was 113 degrees for a couple days, and we lost power a couple of times.  Luckily Silas hasn't been too fussy because of the sizzling weather.

 

Something funny Silas has been doing lately is attempting to try on my flip flops!  He keeps going over to them and putting his feet on them.  It's kind of funny, even though he knows he's not supposed to touch them.  It's so hard to stay mad at this kid, because he gives you this huge grin and he's so darned cute I can't help but smile, too.

 

And on the flip side, he can cry these huge crocodile tears at a moment's notice!  I think he may have gotten some acting genes from my Dad.  He can be quite dramatic!  (Hello, Siranoush! ~ That's a Maserejian inside joke!)

 

Today for the first time Silas grabbed the spoon out of my hand during lunch and put it to his mouth.  OK, so he's growing up WAY too fast!  I feel so conflicted - I want him to do all these "grown up" things, and then when he does I cry that my baby's not a baby any longer!  Talk about being dramatic!  But I can't help it.  I see him developing and learning and he understands everything, and I picture him in school and then... WHOA, slow down Silva.  The kid's only 13-1/2 months old!  I guess he'll always be my baby. 

18 July 2006

 

I have to say, much to my chagrin, that Silas likes dogs.  We had a fun afternoon at Allen and Amy's house last week, with delicious food and swimming, and Silas LOVED their dog Keely.  He was chasing her around and petting her - not afraid one bit!  I hope no one gets any ideas, though, because we're NOT getting a dog!

 

We're still working on getting rid of the bottle.  Silas is drinking about half of his milk in the sippy cup and then stopping.  I know it will take time.  He is also pacifier-free!  Lately he has been crying when I set him down in his crib for a nap or at bedtime, but it literally lasts about 10-15 seconds and then he stops.  Sometimes he babbles to himself before drifting off to sleep.  No new words, though - just da da and yah-yah.

 

Silas's new thing is pinching.  I don't think he realizes what he's doing, but it really hurts!!  He also likes pulling Daddy's arm and leg hairs out - one at a time.  He finds it hilarious.  I'm starting to get bruises.

 

New foods that we have tried lately are spaghetti and meatballs in tomato sauce (hated it), fish (loved it), and all sorts of ripe fruit (loved pears, disliked plums).  Silas really likes to feed himself.  I've helped him hold a spoon and bring food to his mouth, but I don't think he's ready for that yet.

 

I took Silas to Color Me Mine the other day and we (I) painted a picture frame and put Silas's foot print on it.  Just when I was almost done, Silas swallowed some paper and puked all over himself.  I just love the smell of child-vomit on a 104-degree day.  At least it was memorable!

 

Silas really understands so much of what we say.  Yesterday he was fidgeting in his booster seat during lunch and I told him, in Armenian, to sit up straight (sheedag nusteer, hajees) and he straightened himself up!  And then when I was trying to go to the bathroom and he was clinging on to me (we call him Spock these days, because he's such a cling-on), I told him to please go in the other room and read his book.  He let go of me and walked into the room and I heard him plop down and flip the pages of his book.  He really is such a good kid!

7 July 2006

 

Last Saturday we celebrated Silas's first birthday with a little party for family and some close friends.  We all gathered at Mimi and Grandpa Jerry's house.  The theme was Bob the Builder (in honor of Daddy).  We decorated with blue, yellow, and red balloons, and the centerpieces were a real power tool with balloons tied to them on each table.

 

I don't know if Silas really knew what was going on, but he enjoyed playing with his cousin Jett, and friends Aren, Jeremy, Hrayr, and Salpi.  We had hamburgers and hot dogs, pasta salad, fruit and veggie platters, chips, and for dessert, ice cream and a cupcake cake.  This was a cake, in the shape a number one, made out of chocolate cupcakes.

 

The best part of the day was that Grandpa Sam was here from Boston to celebrate with us!  So Silas had all of his grandparents with him on his special day.  After the party we also read the birthday wishes that everyone wrote for Silas at my baby shower in Boston almost a year and a half ago!!  I had saved them all this time and finally got to read them, so that was a lot of fun.

 

Silas is now walking beautifully all over the place.  This morning I was washing dishes in the kitchen and he crawled off into his room.  He really likes reading his books ("Adam, Adam" is still a favorite, as well as "Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What do you hear?"), and he enjoys playing with the drawer handles on his dresser.  Next thing I know he's walking into the kitchen, and then turns around and walks back to his room!  He still hasn't perfected standing up on his own, but he'll figure that out eventually.  He likes to walk in circles, which is fun to watch but quite dizzying!

 

Silas also graduated from swimming lessons last month.  There was a cute little ceremony at the pool and he got a medal and a blue ribbon!  Ani mokoor and Vahe kerayr sent Silas a bunch of fun things for the pool, so now Silas is all set to enjoy the rest of the summer!

 

The East Coast attitude is still present.  The other day we were at cousin Jett's house and Silas was about to push Jett and I said "NO!"  Silas thought Christie was the one who said it and turned around and gave her the longest, dirtiest look!  I was horrified!!  I wonder where he gets that from?!?!

 

Silas is now facing forward in his car seat and is enjoying the new view.  He also is on whole milk - no more formula!  He transitioned quite easily.  Now we just have to get rid of the bottle!

 

Separation anxiety has hit full force, and my poor dad got the brunt of it!  It took Silas several days to get used to him, and even after a week he would not freely go to him.  Poor dad!  He'll just have to come back to visit in a few months when this passes!  Dad coined a cute phrase to describe how Silas reads his books: "1, 2... 25!"  He flips the first few pages, then turns all the way to the end.  Maybe he's a speed reader?  He loves books and I know he gets that from his mokoor!

 

Lately Silas has been raising his arm up high.  Not too sure why, but maybe he just wants everyone to know that he knows the answer!  He also claps while he's walking and this seems to crack him up!  He's now a super-happy toddler (no more baby!!) with a million-dollar smile!

23 June 2006

 

Silas is officially one year and three days old!  I just can't believe it!  He is such a smart kid and understands everthing we say to him.  He is beginning to test our limits, though.  He understands "no" in both languages, and pulls his hand away if he's touching something he shouldn't be and we say no (e.g. the blinds, the cd rack, my dirty slippers, etc.).  He is getting much better at walking, and can eat everything now.

 

We had his one-year checkup on his actual birthday, which wasn't too smart of me because he got two shots!!  The doctor said he is just right, and his weight and height are both in the 60th percentile!  What a difference from a few months ago!  I think being able to eat "real" food has helped!  We are going to start giving him whole milk now, too.

 

I had a very tough time emotionally on his birthday, just realizing that my baby was growing up.  I didn't think it would hit me so hard, but I couldn't help it.  One year ago he was this fragile, skinny little thing and I was a terrified, anxious new mom.  I feel that we have both grown so much in the last 12 months.

 

Good Night Moon has been replaced with Adam, Adam, What do you see?  I even have to recite it when I feed him so he'll sit still and eat!  Singing "I am a C... I am a C-H... I am a C-H-R-I-S-T-I-A-N" also works.  We tried lamejun today and he liked it.  Woo hoo!  Something I don't have to cook!  He wasn't too fond of spaghetti in tomato sauce, though.  Maybe the sauce was too tangy for him?

 

A very special CONGRATULATIONS to my cousin Tina and her husband Ardo on the birth of their first child, a son, Aren on June 20, 2006!!!  Silas and his new cousin get to share a birthday!!!!!

 

We have a lot to look forward to next week!  Mimi and Grandpa Jerry return from Europe on Monday night and my Dad gets in from Boston on Tuesday night and next Saturday is Silas's birthday party!!!

16 June 2006

 

So many new developments in the last ten days!  I can't even blink, Silas is changing so quickly!

 

We started our swimming lessons.  On our very first day we held the babies out by the arms, lifted them up in the air, lowered them into the water and LET GO for three seconds!  Our very first day!!  I think it was much harder for the moms than the babies.  There was much clinging and crying, but Silas did really well.  He has stayed underwater up to 10-15 seconds, and he is a really good kicker!  We even put little fins on his feet!  Although all the babies cry for the entire time during every lesson, I think it's important for Silas to learn to be comfortable in the water, especially in Fresno!

 

Remember how Silas took his first steps on Memorial Day?  Well a week later he figured out how to crawl!!  Funny how he learned to crawl after he learned to walk!!  I thought he would never crawl, but now he's all over the place.  At first he would just crawl to reach his desired object, but now he's figured out he can get from room to room and chase me all over the house.  He still prefers to walk, though, and has taken up to 15 steps on his own without falling!  Although he's fallen plenty of times, too!

Silas is starting to show some East Coast spunk, and I don't think I like it!!  He's pulling a lot of attitude with me about wanting to walk everywhere all the time.  And he's giving me a very hard time during meals.  He doesn't want me to feed him!  As much as I can I let him feed himself, and he does great (scrambled eggs, bread and cheese, etc.), but he can't feed himself cereal or yogurt!  He keeps swatting my hand and all the food goes flying off the spoon (usually onto my lap or down my newly-washed jeans).  The carpet under his chair is now seven different colors (spinach green and sweet potato orange standing out the most).  The only way I can feed him a few spoonfuls of veggies is if I sing praise songs.  His current favorite is "Allelu, Allelu" (remember this one from Sunday school?  Allelu, Allelu, Allelu, Alleluia... Praise ye the Lord!).

 

Silas's favorite game is toss and chase.  He will toss (or kick) a wiffle ball, chase after it, grab it, and toss it again.  Over and over and over and over and over...

 

Last night I went in to check on him and he was sleeping on his tummy with his butt sticking up in the air.  It was so cute - I love my baby boy so much.  On Tuesday, Silas will be one year old.  I guess I have to prepare myself for toddlerhood.  I know there will be challenges in the coming few years, and I guess it's a part of growing up.  For both Silas and me!

5 June 2006

 

Although everyone says Silas looks mostly like Jayson (grrr... I carried him for 9 months!!), he definitely has some of my personality traits.  He is very cautious when trying new things, he is not a risk-taker, and he is very stubborn!!  He likes to do things his way and in his own time.  He decided this week that he is done nursing, so that chapter in our lives is closed!!  I tried not to think about it too much so I wouldn't get emotional, but it is another realization that he is growing up! 

 

Silas likes walking to the door now - I guess he always wants to go somewhere - and he reaches up to the door knob.  He can't reach it quite yet, thank goodness.  He's doing a lot better with taking steps, moving from one spot to another, walking while holding onto only one hand, and even turning on his own.

 

Cheerios (actually, Joe's Os from Trader Joe's) are a yummy new snack, and we tried macaroni and cheese last night and Silas loved it!!

 

Silas's top four teeth have all come in at once - the two on the right are a bit bigger than the two on the left.  Luckily he did not have much discomfort!!  He'll really be chomping away now!  In six weeks he popped out six teeth!

 

Yesterday we went to visit T.J., Christie, and Jett and Silas and Jett gave each other a huge hug!  It was very cute and I'll be sure to mention it to them at an opportune time when they're older.  At one point Silas was leaning against the glass door looking out in the yard at Jett's dog, and Jett came up and grabbed him from behind.  Silas turned around and knocked him over, resulting with both of them falling to the ground!  Hilarity ensued!!  Luckily T.J. caught it all on tape.

 

Mom & Jerry are on their way to Munich as we speak - We miss you already!!!

31 May 2006

 

What an exciting week it's been!  I'll start with the big news - Silas took his first few steps on Memorial Day!!  It was a busy day for us.  We went to our church's annual picnic and Silas spent almost the entire time walking around in the water (there is a huge walk-in pool).  He also went in the pool with Daddy and loved it!  That's good news for me as we start our swimming lessons next week!  So, when we got home from the picnic we were in his room playing.  Jayson was on the floor with him and I was putting away some of his clothes.  Jayson tried to get him just to stand by himself, to balance himself, and he called me to turn around, and just when I did, Silas took three steps toward Jayson!!  He didn't fall into him - his back was straight and he actually walked!  Yesterday we practiced and he did it again, so I'm sure it won't be long before he's off and running!

 

Silas has been very talkative lately.  He chats away to anyone who will listen, even when he's alone!  He'll blab in his crib when he wakes up in the morning, or when I put him down for a nap, and he'll jabber when we're out running errands.  He even talks to himself when he's in the car seat and we're driving somewhere.  He still doesn't say much, but he definitely knows what words mean.

He even has a few tricks!  One is when we say "Oh my head!" he will put both of his hands on top of his head and give us a big smile!  Yesterday he heard someone on tv say "head" and he lifted one hand to his head (he was holding his bottle with the other hand!).  He also gives me "five" when I put my hand out, and then he holds my thumb and turns my hand so that my palm is facing him and gives me a "high five"!!  This kid is too smart.

 

Silas really just wants to walk.  He won't even sit down sometimes.  We've had to give him his bath standing up a couple of times because he won't sit during bath time!!  He just stiffens his body and refuses to bend his legs!  He's also getting a lot more comfortable moving while holding on to something, and he just goes around and around his music table. 

 

There are more teeth on the way!  I see all four top teeth trying to come in at once!  Poor kid has a runny nose and he even threw up last week - and I think it's because of the teething.  But he doesn't seem to be in any discomfort and his sleeping is still solid. 

 

Silas loves his reflection!  He'll put his face right to the mirror and kiss himself.  The kid loves himself!  Yesterday, for the first time, I said to him, "Give Mama a bacheeg (kiss)," and he leaned over and put his mouth on my cheek!  He gave Daddy a kiss, too, but I got more!  He gives the sweetest kisses!

 

Silas is a very quick learner.  I bought him some bigger sippy cups, without handles this time, and he transitioned to them without a hitch.  He'll even drink with one hand at times.  He's almost weaned himself, so I want to start giving him formula (3 more weeks until milk!) in a sippy cup so we can get rid of the bottle before he's a year old.  I'm not giving him his pacifier except for when he sleeps, and that hasn't been a problem either.

 

Silas has his own special dance moves, too!  He backs his butt up to the couch and shakes it up and down!  It's the most hilarious thing!  He's getting his groove on!

 

I can't believe our baby will be a year old in just a few weeks.  Last year at this time I couldn't picture what he would look or sound like - now I can't picture life without him!

20 May 2006

 

I'm sorry I've lagged with my journal!!  I've had a note on my desk to write one for the last three weeks - forgive me!  We have a lot to cover, so here it goes!

 

Silas is growing so quickly - he's 11 months old today!!  He is becoming a little pickier with his food.  He is starting to not like baby food in a jar!  Does he know I'm culinarily challenged?  He prefers "real" food, like cheese, english muffin, pasta, and scrambled egg yolk.  I guess I need to start cooking.  I say that a lot!  There is an Armenian rhyme, "Guhloreeg, Muhloreeg."  Reciting it seems to be the only way to get Silas to eat food from a jar!!  He'll turn away when I try to feed him, but as soon as I start saying "guhloreeg, muhloreeg, shakar hatz..." it's as if he's hypnotized and opens his mouth!  I probably say it, oh, 30 times during each meal.  But he's worth it.

 

Silas is also taking his baths in the big bathtub now.  He does really well, and likes to splash around and play with his rubber ducky.  Actually, he likes to chew his rubber ducky's head, soap suds and all.  He wants to be clean inside and out!  Every night he plays a game with us right before bed:  He'll give Daddy a good night hug, then start to come to me, and then go back and give Daddy another hug.  He thinks psyching me out is hilarious.  Ha ha.

 

No more infant carrier seat for Silas!  Good thing, too, because it was getting heavy!  Silas now sits in his convertible car seat (still rear-facing for another month).  When we're at the grocery store, he sits in the front of the cart (with the protective Floppy Seat cover, of course).  It's hard to keep him entertained, however, because he tosses everything I give him to the floor!

 

He's also pulling drawers open and walking all over the house!  We have to hold his hands, but he leads us down the hall and in and out of rooms.  For a long time he felt like our baby in our house, but now he's taken ownership and it feels like it's his house, too.  He walks pretty quickly, and never seems to get tired.

 

Silas LOVES the story book Good Night Moon.  Whoever got it for us (I believe it was at my baby shower in Boston) - THANK YOU!!!  It's the only story he'll sit still for, and he loves to turn the pages.  When I read him any other story, he will have to hold Good Night Moon at the same time.  I read it to him before each nap, and I know it by heart by now.

 

I had a very special first Mother's Day weekend!  On Saturday, my mother-in-law, sister-in-law and I went to get pedicures, then we had lunch together.  It was nice to spend girl time together while the Daddies watched the boys!  On Sunday we went to church (and all the moms got a flower), then we went to my in-laws' for lunch.  Jessy tantig and Sahag amo were there, too.  We ate, opened presents, then did the hadeeg for Silas (he has two teeth now!!).  The options were a fire truck (fireman), stethoscope (doctor), hammer (construction), wooden spoon (chef), scientific calculator (engineer/accountant), pen (writer), and Bible (preacher/missionary).  Silas went for the fire truck first, probably because it was bright red, then put it down.  He spun around and reached for the calculator, and played with that for a bit, then put it down and went for the pen.  He put the pen in his mouth, then took it out and went back to the calculator!  Then we did it with Jett, and he picked the same things in the same order, but ended up with the pen!  It was a great day, and it's a great joy to be Silas's mom!

 

Silas is truly a very happy and loving baby.  Everywhere we go he just sees people and smiles, and everyone comments on how happy he is.  I think Jayson and I are doing a pretty good job.  It's still challenging and some days are harder than others, but God has helped our confidence so much!  We also try to make a lot of time for each other, because one of the greatest gifts that we can give Silas is a loving relationship with each other.  Jayson takes great care of our family and it warms my heart seeing him with Silas.  He and Silas have a very special relationship - Silas practically leaps from wherever he is when Daddy comes home each afternoon.  I love both of my boys very much!

26 April 2006

 

Big news this week - Silas got his first tooth!!  It came out on the day after he turned 10 months old!  It's his bottom right front tooth, and it came out without any problems - no illness, no diarrhea, no fever, no fussiness!  I hope they're all this easy!  Every time I try to pull down his lip to look at the tooth, he sticks his tongue out at me!

 

Silas is becoming very affectionate.  He gives the best hugs!  And he is holding our hands and walking all over the place.  A few days ago he walked through the house, down the hall, and into his bedroom!  He's so curious and loves to explore.  He's also becoming more vocal, though he's not saying any new words yet.

 

My aunt Jessy has been babysitting Silas a few hours a day this week because my old office needed my help.  Silas has been an absolute angel for her!  He doesn't fuss or cry for me (and I was worried!).  I'm so relieved that he's ok with other people - I thought his world might stop if I left him for a few seconds.  I know, I know; I'm a first-time mom and a little attached to my son - so sue me!

 

Silas did something really funny in the bath the other night.  Jayson was washing him and he reached over and back-handed me across the face!  As Jayson's laughing at me, Silas reached over and back-handed him, too!  He wasn't laughing after that! (Father's note: Yes I got slapped but that is only because I love him. He knows that when he gets in trouble later that it's daddy's turn to do the slapping.)

 

I thank God over and over for blessing us with such a fun, personality-filled baby!

19 April 2006

 

Today was a really fun day.  Silas and I ran a bunch of errands, and then we picked up a pizza and took it to Jayson's job site.  Silas LOVED hanging out with Daddy on the job.  He's definitely a boy's boy and likes hanging out with the men, especially his Daddy.

 

We had a wonderful Easter!  Church was a lot of fun; Jayson took the day off from his media work and we were able to sit together and worship as a family.  After church we all went to Mom & Jerry's for lunch and spent the whole afternoon there.  Silas and Jett got personalized Easter baskets with stuffed animals and lots of books!  He is risen!

 

Silas is definitely on the verge these days - he's ALMOST getting a tooth and he's ALMOST walking.  Do either count?  I think so!  He's constantly chewing on his fingers and I can see the white of his tooth just under his gums.  I think we're close, but then again, I've been saying that since he was two months old!  I think I just want some hadeeg...

 

Silas stiffens his body when we try to sit him down these days.  He wants to stand and he wants us to hold his arms and let him walk.  Later today I'm going to Babies-R-Us to purchase him a walker toy so he can practice.  He's really cute how he throws out his feet - sometimes way out to the left or right.  But hey, he's trying!

 

Some other important news!  Silas has learned how to drink from a sippy cup!  I just started giving it to him a couple of weeks ago, and he now drinks more than he spills!  He likes to lean back and guzzle down his water very loudly.  And then he smiles and is very proud of himself!  We're proud of him, too!

12 April 2006

 

We had a fun weekend full of baptisms!  On Saturday we drove an hour south to a town called Yettem for my cousin Charlene's son's baptism.  They live in Los Angeles so we hadn't seen them in about three years and had never met little Grant or his older sister Arabella.  It was a really nice service and everything was beautiful.  We had lunch in the hall afterwards, and at one point several of the younger children were running all over the place.  Jayson and I both noticed how intently Silas was staring at them.  He had this longing in his eyes; a real desire to run with them!  But the poor kid doesn't know how yet!

 

On Sunday it was Palm Sunday and we went to church early for breakfast and an Easter egg hunt.  Little Aren came, too.  We took lots of pictures and Silas even got his own bag in which to put the eggs.  Silas found two eggs (with Mommy's help) - the big kids are a lot faster and wiped the place clean!

 

During church little Jett was baptized.  He looked adorable in his little white outfit, and he loved being held by Badveli.  He didn't even want to go back to his mom and dad!  I think he liked the view from the altar!  We had a big lunch at Mimi & Grandpa Jerry's house afterwards and Silas and Jett fought over the red plastic cup again.  Even if we give them each their own cup, they still want what the other one has!

 

Last week Silas and I visited Jett at day care.  Jett couldn't stop staring at Silas, and then they proceeded to simultaneously try to pull out each other's pacifiers!  They are so cute together!

 

Silas is getting bigger and smarter by the minute!  He is now sitting facing out in his stroller, and he definitely likes this view better!  He leans forward and stares out the whole time!  He also ate a scrambled egg yolk for breakfast yesterday, and he really liked it!  He's still saying dadada nonstop; in fact, he woke up saying it this morning!

3 April 2006

 

Silas has been very whiny and fussy today; I'm really not sure why!  Maybe he just woke up on the wrong side of his crib this morning!  Is this a picture of days to come?  I'm sure we'll have many more whiny days ahead - he'll be just like every other toddler!

 

Silas is getting better with his naps, so that's a relief.  Sometimes he still really fights it (like this afternoon!), but he's getting more used to it.  I'm trying to be as consistent as possible! (Parents Note: After this was written Silas went #2..that was his problem)

 

Silas is also trying to crawl, but he's moving either his legs or his arms - he hasn't quite figured out how to coordinate all four limbs.  It's causing him some frustration, and I'm trying to resist the urge to bring his desired objects closer.  We're giving him lots of encouragement!

 

13 - That's the number of hours Silas slept last Friday night!!  Could be a growth spurt - who knows, but we're not complaining!!

 

Silas also got his first boo boo this past Sunday.  He fell backwards against the couch before anyone could grab him and got a scratch on his forehead.  But Daddy gave him lots of love and he was all better.  Fortunately for everyone involved, I was not present when all this went down! (Fathers Note: Yes, I was there and he did get hurt and some of it was my fault. But it is best for a child to be hurt for the first time by the one who loves him the most !!)

28 March 2006

 

We have two birthdays this week!  Happy Birthday to hokoor Christie, whose birthday is today, and to mokoor Ani, whose birthday is on Friday!!  Wet, sloppy kisses to you both from Silas!!

 

Silas's 9 month checkup went well.  He got a finger prick (he is very slightly anemic) and one shot.  Silas is also going through stranger anxiety, so he absolutely freaked out when our pediatrician held him.  But Dr. Gonzalez said that's a very good thing; it seems one of his own sons used to go off with anyone!

 

Silas now weighs 18 pounds and is 28" tall - or, as Jayson likes to put it, 2'4".

 

And in just one short week Silas has figured out how to roll across the room.  He went pretty far today until he started to cry.  When I looked more closely at where he was I realized his foot had gotten twisted under the couch.  Ouch!!  He was fine, though - he's a tough kid.  Nothing a little look outside can't fix!  He loves touching the glass patio door!

 

Jett said "Mom" this week!!  We're all so excited!  Maybe he'll rub off on Silas, who's been obsessed with saying "Dadadada" for the last four months!  Silas also went down a slide for the first time a few days ago.  We went to the park with my friend Tina and her son Aren, and Silas and I went down the slide together.  It was fun!

 

Silas is quite the charmer!  In church last Sunday he saw 6-month-old Salpi and went ga-ga.  He reached over and held her hand. (I flashed forward 16 years to them dating - Silas and Salpi - awww, how cute!)  And at the store an older lady came over to say how adorable he was, and he gave her a huge, toothless smile!  I guess Silas does not discriminate according to age!  What a flirt!!

20 March 2006

 

Silas is 9 months old today - he has officially been in my belly and out of my belly for equal parts!  He is growing and developing so much, it's almost hard to keep track of it all!

 

A fun thing Silas learned to do recently (more for him, not so much for me) is how to undo the velcro straps of his diapers.  So changing him is becoming increasingly challenging as he rolls side to side, grabs his toes, and now unstraps the velcro faster than I can close it!  I close one side and he pulls off the other; I re-close that side and he's back to the first!  He's a fast one!

 

Silas is also really enjoying these wagon wheel snacks.  He picks one up in each hand and takes turns chewing on both of them.  They're very sticky and make a big mess, but it's so much fun watching him feed himself.  He's using his pincer grasp (thumb and index finger) now, so that's a pretty big development.

 

Silas is finally showing signs of wanting to be more mobile, as he lunges forward from a sitting position.  He ends up on his belly and then rolls onto his back.  But at least he's trying!

 

Tomorrow we go for his 9-month checkup.  I'm not sure if he gets shots this time - I hope not!

9 March 2006

 

Silas's baptism was just beautiful.  We really felt the Lord's presence with us, and we felt complete.  Despite my mother and Jayson's father not being there, and Ani and Vahe unable to make the trip, we could feel their love with us.  My mother-in-law and aunt Jessy helped me dress Silas when we got to church.  He wore a beautiful white suit (from Ani and Vahe) and a gold khachkar (cross) from my father.

 

When Badveli called us up, I made sure to look out into the church.  I smiled, because there were so many loved ones smiling at us.  Jayson was born and raised in this church, and these people are more than just fellow church members - they are family.  Although I have only been here for four years, they have reached out to me and welcomed me with open arms and open hearts, and I feel like they are family to me, too.

 

The ceremony began with my father singing Ov Zarmanalee.  Since his heart attack, my dad has not felt comfortable singing in public because he cannot control his breathing to sing properly.  But he said he would do it for his grandson.  It was absolutely beautiful hearing just his voice sing this melody about birth and baptism.  Many people told us afterwards that they were crying as he sang. (Father's Note: This was a special time for me not only because I want Silva to feel at home in our church and having her dad there, but that my father-in-law can sing. From my media geek perspective he was outstanding. The acoustics in our church are great and they were meant for times like this.)

 

Badveli then continued with the ceremony, and baptized Silas with water that Jayson had brought back from Lake Sevan in Armenia.  Silas was very good and did not cry (even though he was sick and had a fever the day before).  Steve Vartabedian also participated, and being a close friend of Jayson's father, added another personal touch to the ceremony.

 

This baptism was really a dedication - Jayson and I dedicating our son to the Lord Jesus Christ.  We made a promise in front of our church and in front of God to raise our son in His way, and the church promised to help us and encourage us in that task.  When Silas is older, we pray that he will make a personal decision to accept Jesus Christ in his heart as his Lord and Savior.

 

After the church service we had lunch at my in-laws' home.  It was just family and some close friends.  A highlight was Silas mushing up the cake with his hands, and then getting cake all over my new suit!  (Nothing a little dry cleaning can't fix!) (Father's note #2: Yes, I was the one who let him have fun with the cake. I love my son !!!!! )

 

It was a special day for a special boy.

22 February 2006

 

I am so excited - My dad arrives in Fresno tonight!!  I miss him and can't wait to see him and for him to see Silas.  The last time we saw him was Thanksgiving, and Silas was only 5 months old then.  He's now 8 months old!

 

These last few weeks I have really seen a change in Silas.  He seems to have lost his baby-ness and is looking more and more like a little boy!!  The other day I could totally picture him running up and down our hall, and it made me smile.

 

Silas is really enjoying clapping.  He claps while he eats, in the bath, and while he nurses!  Today he even clapped in his sleep!  It was so adorable.  I know these are little things, but each new thing he does is done for the first time.  Do you remember the first time you clapped, or stood up on your own, or ate beef (yes, people - he liked it!)?  I've really loosened up and am letting him experience all of these things.  So if he wants to put his fingers in his mouth while he eats - go ahead!  You want to reach out and feel the mirror?  Go for it!

 

Silas's baptism is this Sunday.  I am SO excited and looking forward to it.  It's really a big deal for me and Jayson.  It is a chance for us to dedicate our son to the Lord, and make a promise in front of our church to raise him to know and love God.  I pray every day for God to keep him on the right path and to surround him with solid Christian friends as he grows.

14 February 2006

 

Happy Valentine's Day!  Before I got married, I only used the phrase "I love you" with family.  Those were very special and meaningful and exclusive words, reserved only for those for whom I truly meant it.  I did not throw those words around lightly.

 

Since being with Jayson, I probably say "I love you" at least ten times a day.  You would think they would lose their meaning, but I mean it from my heart every time. 

 

And today, I am more in love with Jayson than I have ever been.  He is an incredible man, a loving husband, and a devoted father.  Each time I see him with Silas, my heart leaps. (Father's note: Yes, my wife loves me...and I love her the same.)

 

I have learned a new meaning of love this past year - that of being a mother.  Having Silas - a product of my love with Jayson - has been the greatest joy of my life.  It reminds me of another love, the love God has for each of us.  He, too, had a Son, and that Son lived and died for each of us.  Talk about true love!

 

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.  John 3:16

8 February 2006

 

It's been a fun week with Silas.  Every day he does something new, so I wake up very excited to see what he'll come up with each day.  He's clapping his hands on ours, to "give me five," and he clapped his hands together for the first time during his bath this past week.  He's also pulling himself to stand up on my lap and leaning forward in an attempt to crawl.  It's still early, but the beginning signs are there!

 

I realized how different things will be once he becomes more mobile.  I won't be able to sit him on the floor and walk into the next room.  I'll just have to drag the exersaucer around the house with me!  I can sense his frustration, though, at wanting to move and being unable to, so I know he will be much happier once he starts moving on his own.

 

Silas is still very vocal and expressive.  He spent quite a while talking to his reflection in the mirror on the exersaucer the other day.  It was adorable!  I'm looking forward to him speaking - I know all the questions will get annoying, but at least he will be able to tell me what he wants and needs!  As I type this he is saying "da da da da da da" - He's been doing this nonstop for quite a while!  We're practicing "ma ma ma ma" but he still prefers "da da."

 

He has also developed a fake crying technique to get my attention.  There are no tears, just fake little "ahhhhs" to get me to pick him up.  And of course, the moment I do, he stops.  What a little player!

 

The weather in Fresno has been stunning!  It's supposed to be 70 degrees for the next few days.  Silas and I take at least one walk a day, and he loves being outside.  He definitely takes after his Daddy on that one!

30 January 2006

 

It's official... Silas is definitely NOT a vegetarian!  He ate a whole jar of chicken noodle dinner this afternoon and he loved every bite!  I'm very glad and relieved, actually, because I don't want him to be a picky eater like me!  I am very basic in my eating habits - food does not interest me very much.  I am not adventurous and would be thrilled if I could eat grilled cheese and french fries every day!  So now Silas will get some serious protein and next we're going to try turkey lasagna!

 

Silas is also learning cause and effect!  When he's sitting to eat, he often taps his hands on the tray in front of him.  And when he does it I always say "tap, tap, tap!"  So this afternoon I randomly said "tap, tap, tap" and he started tapping his hands on the tray!  He did this three separate times!  My boy is so smart!

 

I had some girlfriends from my old job over for a girls' night last weekend.  It was so much fun seeing them, getting caught up, and sharing laughs together.  It made me realize that I really don't miss work, and that I'm so grateful to Jayson that I can be home every day with Silas.  I still want to write and thankfully I can do that from home.  We really prayed from the moment we found out we were pregnant for this to work and God heard and answered our prayers!

24 January 2006

 

It's been a rough few days - Silas has a cold.  He's almost over it, but it was so hard watching him coughing and sneezing.  At least he never got a temperature!  And, as I do every day, I learned some new things about my son.

 

1) Silas hates having his nose wiped or suctioned.  As soon as I would come near him with a tissue, he would cover his nose with his fist and proceed to wipe his snot all over his hands and face.  Thanks, kiddo.  Just spread those germs all over, ok?

 

2) Silas is good at throwing temper tantrums.  He wanted to be held today.  All day.  He is my priority, absolutely, but mommies have to eat and go to the bathroom!  The instant I put him down, he would cry.  So I tried to let him cry for a few minutes to see if he would stop.  Oh no - bad move.  He arched his back (something new he's just learned how to do) and kicked and stomped his feet and threw out his arms.  It was quite dramatic.  I think we have a little actor on our hands.

 

3) Relating to #2, Silas likes to throw a lot of things.  Especially when he's cranky.  Things such as, his pacifier, his teethers, his toys, Mommy's cell phone, the remote control...  I spend a lot of time at the sink...

 

Thankfully, Silas is almost back to himself.  And I have a lifetime of his colds and coughs and tantrums to look forward to!

16 January 2006

 

Silas would not stop saying "da da" tonight.  He was just saying it over and over and over again.  It was really funny!  I couldn't get him to say "ba ba" or "ma ma" - he was stuck on "da da"!!  He was even saying it as I was trying to burp him, and at one point he pulled back and his face was right in my face!  So I started to laugh, and that got Silas laughing, and pretty soon we were staring each other in the face laughing our heads off!  I guess you had to be there!

 

Silas has gotten very adept with his pacifier.  Not only can he reach for it, grab it, and put it back in his mouth properly, but he can now also cry, scream, and talk with it still in his mouth!  That's our boy!

 

Silas will be 7 months old on Friday.  Wow!  Every month is better than the last.  Being parents is hard work, but he's so worth it.

8 January 2006

 

Today was a fabulous day!  We had the family over for lunch to celebrate Armenian Christmas.  Daddy and Mommy got Silas two presents - an Armenian alphabet puzzle mat and Armenian alphabet bath toys.  We had a delicious lunch prepared by Jayson (hey, I set the table and washed the dishes!), and it was nice to be with family.

 

The other exciting news of the day was that Jett cut his first tooth last night!!  It's the most adorable thing - a little jagged piece of white on his bottom gum!  This kid is advanced - he's not even 5-1/2 months old yet!

 

Silas enjoyed his second Christmas celebration with his cousin, and it is really nice to be starting these new traditions for him.  We hope Silas will grow up celebrating Jesus in his life!

2 January 2006

 

Happy New Year everyone!  We hope you all had a fun celebration and wish you a fabulous 2006!

 

Our family is starting the year with a bang - Silas can sit up now!  After a while he does lean over to one side or the other, but if he has a toy in front of him, he stays up!  He is getting really good at reaching for things, and lunging at them if they're just out of reach.

 

Today, for the first time, Silas sat in a booster seat to eat his vegetables!  He did really well, and enjoyed tapping on the plastic yellow tray in front of him.  He is getting better at adapting to new experiences.  It is so much fun seeing him sitting up like a big boy!

 

My resolution this year is to be the best Mommy that I can be.  I'm excited for all that 2006 will bring - walking, talking, and teeth!

26 December 2005

 

Merry Christmas everyone!  Our Christmas weekend was a memorable one!  Maybe not for Silas, but the parents and grandparents thoroughly enjoyed it and we took plenty of pictures and video for posterity.

 

On Christmas Eve we went to Jerry & Nelda's for dinner.  Christie and T.J. were there with Jett, too.  After a yummy Mexican dinner, we opened our stockings.  Silas and Jett got such treats as baby shampoo, baby wipes, and baby food!  The boys also got special pillows from Grandpa Jerry and Mimi's trip to Alaska a while back - Silas's pillow had a whale on it and Jett's pillow had a moose on it.  Very Alaskan!  The bags that the pillows came in were best of all - each boy's bag had his name on it, and the boys even fit inside for a cute photo op!

 

After we opened our stockings, Silas and Jett got to open one more present each - books for Mommy to read them!  We had dessert, and then relaxed for a bit before heading to church.  FAPC (First Armenian Presbyterian Church) had a candlelight Christmas Eve service at 10:00pm.  Jayson ran the sound system and I read the Armenian scripture (Luke 2:1-20, about Christ's birth), so we were both involved.  Silas was way off his schedule at this point, but he did just fine.  The service ended with everyone lighting a candle as we walked outside and stood in a circle in the courtyard singing "Silent Night."  It was a beautiful, balmy evening, and a nice end to the day.

 

On Christmas morning we went back to church for a beautiful service.  Mimi sang in the choir and T.J., Christie, and Jett kept me and Silas company in the Cry Room.  After church we went to T.J. and Christie's house for lunch.  T.J. prepared a casino roast (which I was told was yummy) and tilapia fish, along with all the side dishes.  Their house was decorated beautifully and we could hardly fit another gift under the tree.

 

After lunch we opened the presents, with Christie donning the Santa hat and handing out gifts.  I think everyone was pleased with their gifts, and the thought that went into them.  The best gift had to be an actual "branding iron" with T.J.'s initials - so he can now brand the Certified Angus Beef he cooks before he serves it!

 

Silas and Jett had lots of presents to open, but Silas was much more entertained by the tissue paper and by Ty, Jett's doggy.  I'm sure next year will be a lot more interesting, with the boys running around, pulling ornaments off the tree, and chasing the dog.  I can hardly wait!

21 December 2005

 

Each week is more exciting than the last!!  Silas is getting more and more expressive, vocal, and inquisitive.  A few days ago he said "da da" - unbelievably cute!  I know he doesn't know what it means yet, but it was so cute to hear him say it!  Am I upset that he didn't say "ma ma" first?  No way!  We had been practicing "da da" for at least a month, so that if he needs something or wakes up at night, he can call for da da!  It's all part of my master plan (thanks to my former boss, Lorie, for the tip!).

 

Silas is sleeping beautifully.  I can't believe it only took four nights of crying before he learned to fall asleep without it.  Only four nights!!  Last night, for example, we went through his bedtime routine and put him down.  He didn't make a peep!  He fell asleep at 8:15pm and woke up at 6:45am (10-1/2 hours straight!), and then Jayson gave him his pacifier and he slept for another hour.

 

Silas loves being out and about.  He never gives me trouble when we're shopping, at the Post Office, or at the supermarket.  He loves looking around and taking in all the sights and sounds.  I can tell he's just soaking it in!

 

We had Silas's 6-month visit yesterday.  He weighs 15 pounds (10th-15th percentile - woo hoo!!) and is almost 27 inches tall.  He wiggled and kicked so much on the scale that the nurse had to weigh me alone and then me holding him to get an accurate reading!  He also got three shots and took them like a champ.

 

I can't believe Silas is already 6 months old and Jett is almost 5 months old.  Last year at this time we were looking forward to "next Christmas with two baby boys" - and here we are!

15 December 2005

 

It has been an exciting week!  Silas finally slept through the night!  Jayson and I have been praying consistently for Silas to sleep better, and for God to give us the knowledge to know how to help him do that.  So this week we started a bedtime routine - I feed Silas at around 8:00pm, then we give him a bath, read him a story, say our prayers, and sing a lullabye, and then down in the crib he goes.

 

The first night he cried for an hour, with us checking on him every few minutes, until he fell asleep.  But we were strong and did not pick him up!  The last few nights he has only cried for half an hour before falling asleep.  I know it's new to him and he is adjusting pretty well, but it's still hard to listen to him cry.

 

I would not have been able to do this months ago.  But now I have learned that Silas is just crying to be held.  I know that the moment Jayson or I pick him up, he will stop crying.  And that helps me bear listening to his cries.

 

The first couple of nights he still woke up once - but he slept 6 hours straight before waking up!  I thought that felt great in and of itself.  But then he slept straight through the night - 10 hours!  I felt like a new woman in the morning!

 

Silas is also getting to be a better napper.  He has moved from taking three or four shorter naps during the day to just a couple of longer ones.  I am so glad and grateful that his sleeping patterns are improving, because he really was not getting enough sleep before.  We have Silas's 6-month checkup next week, and I can't wait to see what the doctor says!

11 December 2005

 

It was inevitable... I knew it would happen... And now it's here... Our first family cold!  Jayson, Silas and I are all sick.  First it was me.  I think I gave it to Silas.  Then Jayson got sick.  Then Jayson gave it back to me.  And around and around we go!

 

Silas isn't too bad.  He does not have a fever, thankfully.  He just sounds congested.  Nursing has been a little difficult for him, as it's tough to breathe and suck with his mouth at the same time!  But he's still smiley and happy, so I'm grateful.

 

Silas took a long nap yesterday and I got most of my to-do list from last week done!  It felt so good to get caught up a bit.  Our tree is up and decorated, our Christmas photos are sent out, and we even have lights up along our mantle.  Christmas shopping is not done yet, but hey, I still have 2 weeks!

5 December 2005

 

So many people at church yesterday mentioned how much Silas has grown.  I don't notice it as much because I'm with him every day, but they had not seen him in two weeks since we were in Boston for Thanksgiving.  Although he does feel heavier to me!  Must be those veggies!

 

He's also changing in appearance.  When Silas was first born, he was the spitting image of Jayson.  If you put Jayson's baby picture next to Silas's, you wouldn't be able to tell them apart.  And everyone said how much Silas looked like Jayson - thanks, by the way, since I carried him for nine months!  But in Boston, everyone in my family commented that Silas looks so much like me!  Have I ever mentioned how much I love my family?  I guess they remember me as a baby, so they could make that connection.  I still think Silas looks like my dad the most, and I'm sure he'll continue to change as he grows.

 

Silas has inherited two definite Maserejian traits from my side of the family - a loud voice, and no bum!  My family is super-loud.  We don't yell; we're just loud.  A stranger may think we're arguing, but we're not.  We're just loud.  And so is Silas.  When he's babbling or cooing or laughing or whining, he's loud.  Oh yeah - that's from my side.  There's also a lack of rear ends in my family, so Silas's tiny bum is definitely my fault.  He still can't fill out the back of a pair of size 3 month pants!

 

Silas continues to be as expressive as ever.  He furrows his brows when he's thinking about something, and his eyes dart side to side to take in a new environment.  He has a huge, wide-mouthed grin that he loves to flash when he's happy or excited.  I especially love when he shapes his lips as if he's forming a word - he probably is - and his various sounds come out.  I'm certain they mean something important to him!

29 November 2005

 

We’re back from Boston!  Despite the chilly temperatures, our trip was fabulous!  It was so exciting to see my dad, sister, and brother-in-law, as well as all of our extended family and friends.

 

We left last Tuesday evening, driving up to San Francisco.  We took a red-eye from there directly to Boston.  Silas did really well on the plane.  He mostly slept in my arms, and did not cry on the way up or on the way down.  I thought his ears might bother him, but he was fine.  I nursed him on the way up, but he was awake on the way down.  Everyone around us said he was great and that they were able to sleep without being bothered by any crying.  Phew!

 

We got to Boston early on Wednesday morning and my sister picked us up from Logan Airport.  It was so chilly!  We’re not used to 30-degree weather.  In fact, I’ve gotten so soft that I get cold when it hits 50 degrees here!  How embarrassing!  We took it easy on Wednesday and just relaxed with the family.  That evening, my sister and I made my mom’s famous paklava to take to Thanksgiving dinner.

 

We spent Thanksgiving day at my brother-in-law’s aunt’s house.  She, and Vahe’s other relatives, had prepared a feast!  There was a beautiful spread for both dinner and dessert, and we just ate and ate.  Silas even met Vahe’s cousin’s baby, Alex – who is a couple of months younger than him.  It was a fun and relaxing day.  We did not do too much on Friday.  We just rested up for the weekend.  Vahe’s sister Arpie came over in the evening and we all watched “Batman Begins” – I think that’s what it’s called (the latest one).

 

Saturday was a big day!  Ani and Vahe hosted an Open House for everyone to come and meet Silas.  Almost all of my uncles, aunts, and cousins came to visit, as well as several friends.  Silas got to meet a lot of his cousins, too.  Ani and Vahe both worked hard to entertain and feed the over 50 people who came by throughout the day.  Silas got passed around from person to person, and was smothered with hugs and kisses.  It was a bit overwhelming, but he handled it like a champ.  Good thing he’s a people-baby!

(Father's Note: Just to let you know, around 3:00pm Silas had had enough of the "passing around" business and decided to throw a screaming fit. It was very entertaining I must say. I was able to put him down after a half and hour of claming him. He slept very well for the nap!)

 

On Sunday we took Silas to my home church, the Armenian Memorial Church in Watertown.  It felt good to see my church family and have them meet Silas, too.  After church my dad treated us to lunch at a local Greek restaurant.  We spent the rest of the day with dad, Ani, and Vahe, and said our good byes that evening.  We didn’t sleep much, as we left for the airport at 5:15 a.m. the next morning. I was more worried about this flight, because we would be traveling during the day when Silas is usually alert and active.  But he still did really well!  He fussed a little bit because he was bored, but I just walked up and down the aisles with him for a while and he was fine.

 

We want to thank Ani and Vahe for making our trip so special.  The Open House was a lot of work and they made us feel very loved on that day.  We also want to thank my dad for loving Silas so much!  It was hard to leave him!  And finally, we want to thank the Haroutunian family for allowing us to stay in their home while they were in Fresno for the holidays – we were able to spare our family from waking up several times each night from Silas’s cries!

 

Silas is continuing to babble away, and lately he's been grabbing at our faces and sticking his fingers in our mouths!  I think he is definitely teething, as he is chewing on his fingers and drooling excessively.  Also, his hair is really starting to grow!  Must have been that cold Boston air! All in all, it was an excellent trip.  Silas is pretty much back to his routine, and we are unpacked and settled in at home.  All that’s left is to finish my fifth and last load of laundry!

20 November 2005

 

I turned 32 years old two days ago, and it was the best birthday of my life.  Better than when I was a kid and my mom threw me a party at Howard Johnson's.  Better than when I turned 12 at the Wal-Lex roller skating rink.  Better than my Sweet 16 at the AGBU Center.  This was my first birthday as a Mom, and it felt good to celebrate with my baby!

 

Silas, in fact, gave me the best gift of all - he slept 5 hours straight that night!  Too bad it couldn't be my birthday every night!  I'm not complaining, though (not too much, anyway).

 

Jayson's gift came in a close second, almost as good as my Manolo's from last year - he paid for cleaners to clean our house!  I have to admit I had fallen behind and became overwhelmed at how I would find the time to clean the entire house when Silas only naps in 30-45 minute increments!  So Daddy came through and saved the day!

 

We leave for Boston in two days - I cannot wait to be back home.  No, not because it will be in the 40s all week.  I just miss my family, and am so excited for Silas to see everyone.  We definitely have a lot to be thankful for this year!

12 November 2005

 

Silas does something new every day that just amazes me!  He is growing and I'm learning not to stress on things so much.  He is a very happy baby, and I can't help but smile when I look at him - no matter how tired I am!

 

Silas slept 5 hours straight twice this week!  The first time it happened I was so excited that it took me an hour to fall back asleep!  Last night he woke up twice, but that's still better than being up every 1-2 hours!  I feel like a new person!

 

Silas is also eating much better.  He is not sticking out his tongue anymore and he gets excited when he sees the cereal.  He opens his mouth wide for the next bite before swallowing what's already in his mouth!  He even snatched the spoon out of my hand the other day!  The funniest thing is when he puts his fingers in his mouth right when I've given him a spoonful.  What a mess!  And I'm sure this is just the beginning!

 

Jayson and I celebrated our 4th anniversary this week.  We went out to dinner - just the two of us.  It felt awkward at first, to focus only on each other!  But we soon settled in and enjoyed our "date."  In the meantime, Silas threw a temper tantrum at Mimi & Grandpa Jerry's house before crashing out.  Signs of things to come!

8 November 2005

 

OK, Silas still isn't sleeping through the night, but I think we're slowly making progress!  Last night he only woke up three times, at 2:07am, 4:00am, and 5:30am.  I managed to sleep a total of 6-1/2 hours, albeit interrupted!  I know this will pass eventually, and it's all a part of being new parents!

 

Silas is still on the thin side.  It puts a lot of pressure on me, because I feel that Silas's entire physical well being is up to me.  I'm trying to eat healthy and often.  Silas is doing much better with the cereal.  Now when he sees the spoon coming, he opens wide!

 

I put Silas in his crib last night and he curled onto his side!  That was a first.  He's changing day by day.  It's so fun to watch him develop and grow.  He's also quite the chatterbox.  I have a feeling he'll start to talk earlier rather than later.  He's also leaning forward and trying to sit up on his own.  I'm so glad to be home so I don't miss anything!

30 October 2005

 

For the last few nights Silas has been waking up every 1-2 hours through the night!  I don't get it.  He is so wonderful during the day - he eats, then plays, then naps throughout the day.  But at night, he just doesn't sleep through!  I may try mixing some cereal in with his last feeding of the night.  I hope it works, because I am wiped out!

 

But if that's the worst of it, I can't complain.  He is such a wonderful and alert baby.  He is not fussy and he is so much fun to be around.  I'm sure he will outgrow this restless phase soon enough.

 

Our Boston trip is only about 3 weeks away - I can't wait!!  I'm so excited to see my family and friends and for everyone to meet Silas.  I even bought Silas a big, puffy, blue snowsuit.  Considering it's already snowed in Boston, he will definitely need it!

24 October 2005

 

Silas turned four months old last week, and what an eventful week it was!  We paid a visit to our wonderful pediatrician, Dr. Gonzalez.  He said Silas is healthy and perfect, except for being on the skinny side.  So he recommended we start him on rice cereal.  Feeding Silas with a spoon has been an experience.  I'm certain the cereal tastes like cardboard, but the funnier thing is watching Silas look at the spoon!  I don't think he likes foreign objects being stuck in his mouth - he has made the most entertaining faces at me!  He is still thrusting out his tongue and spitting his food everywhere, but soon enough he will learn how to eat and swallow.

 

Silas also got four shots at the doctor's visit - three in his thighs and one in his right arm.  He didn't make a sound after the first shot; I think he was trying to figure out what was going on - but then let loose after the second shot.  Once it was all over and I picked him up he stopped crying and was just fine.  He's such a brave boy!

 

Silas is starting to discover his legs.  As he pulls his legs up when he's lying down, he has started grabbing his knees and will eventually make his way to his feet!  He is a very alert and active baby - constantly kicking and moving.  No wonder he's not gaining weight!

 

A year ago yesterday Jayson and I found out we were pregnant.  It seems like so long ago!  But even four months seems like a long time!  We watched the DVD of Silas's first few days this weekend and it just seems like a lifetime ago.  I can't believe how much he has grown - and how much WE have grown as parents!

15 October 2005

 

I was just thinking how amazing the holidays will be this year with the babies - Silas and Jett - around.  The holidays are fun as it is, but you just can't beat having babies around.  They bring a different kind of energy and joy to every situation.

 

We will be in Boston for Thanksgiving this year - it is my absolute favorite holiday!  Dad and Ani and Vahe will be able to compare Silas at 5 months to when they last saw him at 2 weeks old!  And Silas will get to meet all of his aunts, uncles and cousins.  Good thing Silas is a people-person, otherwise it could be quite overwhelming!

 

For Christmas we will be in Fresno, and Silas will get to open his very first presents under the tree.  I'm sure he and Jett will get plenty of loot - not that they will remember.  They will probably be more excited about the wrapping paper and ribbons!

 

I remember last Christmas I read Armenian scripture in church during the Christmas Eve service.  It was about Mary finding out she was pregnant and giving birth to Jesus Christ.  It was so special and emotional for me because I was pregnant, too.  And now Silas is a reality, and we get to enjoy this Christmas with him.  Jesus came to us as a precious child, and He has blessed us with our very own.

5 October 2005

 

I'm sick.  I hate being sick.  Jayson woke up with a sore throat this morning, so I've already infected one person.  How do I avoid getting Silas sick?  I'm with him all day long - holding him, changing him... How do I not breathe on him?  I don't want a sick baby!

 

Silas is such an active, happy baby.  He smiles all the time and just enjoys being around people.  He doesn't nap very long, which makes it tough for me to do housework; I guess he just doesn't want to miss anything!

 

I think I've adjusted well to mommyhood.  Every day is something new, and I'm learning to go with the flow and not be so afraid of everything.  I know in my head to trust God with Silas, but I find that I have to force myself to commit to that with my heart.  I just want to protect him and never let him out of my sight.

26 September 2005

 

Silas made a new discovery the other day - his left arm!  He just held it up in front of his face and was staring at it for several minutes.  He was also staring at his hand, as if to say, "Look what I found!"  I treasure moments like these and I can't wait for Silas to discover that he has, in fact, another arm and hand, and even legs!

 

Jayson was away this past weekend for a bachelor party.  As I climbed into bed Saturday night, alone for the first time in a long time, I found a note he had left on my pillow.  That is the kind of man Jayson is, and he always has been.  When we were dating, I would come home from a trip to Fresno sad and upset, and would find notes from him hidden in my luggage as I unpacked.  He always knows how to make me smile.

 

I also realized the importance of having a man of God as the head of our family.  Jayson's greatest priority is to take care of me and Silas, and he does that and so much more.  He takes care of our home, our yard, our cars, our finances - all the while making sure that we have more than we need.  We discuss these matters on our walks around the neighborhood, bouncing ideas off each other and thinking through our decisions together.  He does so much for me, and all he asks in return is for me to take care of Silas while he works for us.  I feel very lucky to be able to stay home and raise our son, and trust that God will take care of the rest.  Jayson makes wonderful choices for our family and it is because of his hard work and sacrifices that we are in such a good place. 

 

We are not perfect by any means, but we do our best to be obedient to God, and He has blessed us abundantly.

20 September 2005

 

Silas is three months old today.  It seems like so long ago that he was born; and even longer that I was pregnant!  As I write this he is in his bouncy chair next to me "talking" to the toy elephant attached to the chair.  I wonder what he's saying...

 

Yesterday Silas got his first set of immunization shots.  He got two shots in one thigh and one shot in the other thigh.  The nurse commented that his thighs are so skinny!  Silas was very brave, though.  He only cried right when he got the shots, and then he stopped.  I couldn't even watch!  After we got into the car I cried, too!  I'm just glad he won't remember this!

Father's Note: (Taking Silas to get shots, now there is an experience. Talking to a few other parents who where there and the main topic is, "Does your kid know what is happening and what he is here for?" I am glad none of us remember our shots this early in life. Silas is growing into a little boy and I love every minute of it, coming home and running up to him and watching his eyes light up, what an experience!)

17 September 2005

 

There is no smell more fresh, or sight more pure, than Silas right after a bath.  His skin is so soft and his eyes just glisten.  I give him his paghneekee bacheeg ("bath kiss") and continue to cover him in kisses.

 

I'm realizing more and more that what everyone says is so true - the days do pass so quickly.  Silas is growing fast and soon he won't be a little baby anymore.  I really praise God for blessing our family in such a way that I can stay home with Silas and spend this time with him.  Raising him is an honor, a responsibility wrought with joy.

 

On a lighter note, Jayson and I had to give Silas an emergency bath today.  He pooped straight through his diaper, through his clothes, straight through mine!  I ran to the bathroom and got him undressed and we cleaned him up.  He just looked straight into our eyes and smirked.  I think we're headed for trouble with this one!

3 September 2005

 

At 10 weeks old, Silas weighs 10 lbs, 14 oz. - he is in the 30th percentile for his age.  That's not so bad, but he doesn't have any baby fat and baby rolls for me to bite and enjoy!  I realized why he's not as plump as he could be - he is constantly moving and kicking his feet!  He won't stop!  He's also talking up a storm lately - his little sounds are so cute, and I can't imagine what he's thinking or trying to say.  I wonder how soon he will start talking?

 

I'm still figuring out how to get things done while taking care of Silas.  I can't wait for Jayson to be around to watch Silas every time I want to do something.  And Silas is getting better being in his bouncy chair, or in the playpen, or under the play gym, for a while - but after 15-20 minutes he starts to fuss.  I think he just gets bored easily, but I can't be entertaining him all day long.

 

As I write this, he has kicked and squirmed his way all the way to the bottom of his bouncy chair, "talking" and drooling the whole time.  It's quite amusing, actually.  His skinny chicken legs are in constant motion and his chin is glistening!  Drooly and skinny, that's my boy!

29 August 2005

 

My latest "Silas obsession" are his knees.  They are so round and plump, with soft smooth skin - I can look at them and kiss them without end.  I am fairly certain that I have memorized every crease, crook, and corner of Silas's body.  I just can't stop staring at him.

 

Silas is 10 weeks old today, and he is more wide-eyed and active than ever.  With each new discovery he makes, I discover something new about him.  For example, I am learning that Silas is really a people-person.  He does just fine when we are out and visiting friends, or shopping, or running errands.  The moment I put his car seat in the car, he begins to cry.  He does not like being trapped in the car with no one in sight.  Most babies are the opposite - car rides soothe them.  But not our son!  Nope, he freaks out in the car and is fine once he is out.  It is amazing how early babies' personalities come through.  With Silas, we knew he was head-strong from the first moment, because he would kick his way out of his swaddle and still kicks off his blanket every single time.

 

Tomorrow is Silas's two-month doctor's visit.  He will be receiving his first round of vaccinations.  Most moms say they cried more than their babies did, but I think I will be okay.  It can't be worse than his circumcision, which I also watched.  Although they did numb him for that one.  I'm sure he will be fine, and as we say in Armenian, "Medznaneh guh mornah" (He'll forget when he's older).

(Father's Note: I have to say that over the past couple of weeks my desire to come home and see my son has grown. It is hard when you are working all day, trying to remember all of the people I need to call, trying to run three or four jobs at a time, and still trying to work and make some $$ that I have a son at home. Not that I forget about him, I think about him all the time, it is just that the day is crazy busy and there always seems to be something happening. When I pull up the house everything slips away. I know I still have work to do in the office but once I am showered and clean I can't wait to hold Silas and love on him. Spending "daddy" time together is becoming more and more fun. Silas is very aware of my voice and the motions that I make. He loves watching me close and open my hand. He loves when I hold his legs and push and pull on them. He gives me the biggest smile and just laughs. This makes working hard worth every penny.)

25 August 2005

 

Today marks the 9th anniversary of my mother's death.  As my sister says, August is definitely a tough month for us.  It's hard not to relive those last few weeks.  We don't want to remember, but we just can't forget.

 

Thankfully we have new memories now, thanks to little Silas.  Every day is such a joy with him.  I've noticed in the last few days that he looks up at the mobiles on his playpen and swing with such interest - the fish and the teddy bears really catch his eye!  He smiles so much more often, and he recognizes me and Jayson and grandma.

 

I'm also adjusting to being a mom.  At first I was afraid to start anything around the house - cleaning, cooking (well, my limited amount, anyway!), or other projects - for fear that Silas would cry and I would have to stop halfway through.  Jayson has been gently encouraging me to just do what I need to do, and if Silas cries, well then I can just come back to it later.  I guess I needed that "permission" to divert my attention from Silas for even a short while, and to be assured that it did not mean I was being a bad mother.

 

I don't know why I would think that, anyway.  My mother was amazing, and she set the example for me.  Not that she was perfect, but she was always there for us.  I remember her smile and the way her eyes just shone, and how she constantly told me and my sister how much she loved us and was proud of us.  Aside from her last eight months, I am so grateful to God for the 22 years I had with her.  I wish Silas could know her, too.  I guess I'll have to share all of my memories with him.