Four Year Check Up

I am still having a hard time putting my head around the fact that I have a four year old, that he is in kindergarten, and that my life revolves around what to pack for lunch and what activity we have on any given day. How quickly life changes. A few years ago, sans children, Jerry and I would lazily wake up on a weekend morning around ten, somewhat hungover and our biggest decision would be where we would go for breakfast. Now weekends are packed with trips to Tim Horton's, the market, soccer games, playing at the park, birthday parties, going to the zoo or some other event of one kind or another. Just writing this list makes me exhausted!

Oh, so where was I going with this? Yes, I remember! I took Truman for his yearly check up on Wednesday. My eldest son weighs a mere 45 lbs and is 44 inches in height. This places him in the 90th plus percentile for both weight and height. Yikes! Soon, I will be looking up at him when I have to discipline him, which probably won't go over too well, especially since he seems to think he's the boss most days. In fact, I am fairly sure I heard him tell his father that over the weekend. Ahhh, the joys of having a four year old!

Truman started soccer last weekend, and he is part of the Polliwogs team. He really seems to like soccer. To our amazement we watched him run and kick the ball with ease. I know, not a huge feat, but for our somewhat uncoordinated, not very athletic son, we for a moment thought we had the next Beckham on our hands. His favourite position? Goal keeper!

Oliver's personality is showing more and more each day. He is starting to hold his own with his big brother and loves to mimic everything that Truman does. If Truman is doing something, you can be sure that Oliver too wants to try. Oliver prefers walking to crawling now and he desperately wants to "talk" to us.

Today we ventured to Chudleigh's Apple Farm. I took some pictures with my blackberry that I wanted to upload, but unfortunately they were small and not that clear. Regardless, we had a wonderful time even though it was extremely busy. The Topolski family will be travelling there again soon with the Braun's and O'Brien's. I can't wait to get some more Honey Crisp. Delish!

Truman's First Day of School and Oliver is walking

We are so proud of our eldest son, today he started his first day of kindergarten. It was touch and go, as last night we discovered that Truman had a double ear infection. When he woke up Wednesday morning, he wasn't himself at all, he had been crying for over an hour, he complained that his ear hurt, and he was quite mopey. Completely not himself...here I thought that it had everything to do with starting kindergarten....mommy's spidey sense was off.

We debated all night what we should do about the first day of school, but when Truman bounded into our bedroom this morning and bounced all over me, I had my answer. Wow do antibiotics kick in fast! Truman was so excited to wear his backpack and told me about all of the things he saw in the classroom that he could play with. He gave me a kiss and off he went and enjoyed his first day. Mom didn't even shed one tear!

Our little Oliver has changed so much in the past few weeks. He is really trying to communicate with us (or just communicate with anyone who will listen). He has recently become obsessed with a little bear that aunt Misty gave Truman when he was born. So much so, that Oliver must have it with him at all times. He loves "bear bear" so much, that I believe he helped Olie start walking, as he loves to hold him while on the move. So mommy's life just got busier as Olie now prefers walking to crawling. We just have to work on his stability a little bit!

Happy 4th Birthday Truman! Oliver takes a few steps!

Today, my baby turned four. I have been thinking about Truman's birthday now for weeks and anticipating how it would affect me. You see, not only is Truman turning four, but on Tuesday he finishes day care and then in a few weeks he is off to kindergarten. When I think about Truman leaving day care I am in tears....funny, considering three years I had the same response as I dropped him off for the first time. I am just not ready for my angel to go to "big boy" school...although I am also excited for the year to come. I can't tell you how many times today I just held Truman in my arms and hugged him as tightly as I could.

So, how did we celebrate? On Saturday morning we had a cooking party for Truman at Loblaws. We had a blast as we hope did all our guests. The kids made fruit kabobs, pizza and then decorated cupcakes. Fun! Later in the afternoon we had the family over for (two) cakes (made by Tina, of course) and coffee. Tina, being the super awesome aunt that she is, made a chocolate cake just for Truman. I had a piece tonight, and it was delicious, as was the watermelon ice cream cake.

Today, since it was so hot outside, we spent the entire day in the pool! What a great day to have a birthday. Then the Topolski clan went out for a nice family dinner together at a local restaurant. Both Jerry and I were amazed at how well both boys behaved. Maybe the threat of losing a cupcake helped Truman be on his best behaviour?

Our little Olie is gaining his confidence and has been taking a few steps solo over the last couple of days. He still prefers to cruise, hold your hand or crawl at high speeds, but on occasion I can trick him into walking towards me. He is gaining an interest in books and is following his brothers footsteps in his love of animals. His three favourite words seem to be "dog", "cat" and "duck", although at times these three words can sound the same!

The next few weeks I will be busy preparing for the upcoming school year. Trying to figure out what to pack in school lunches and planning after shcool activities. I am sure I will be fighting off tears on Truman's first day.

Truman, I want to wish you the most wonderful birthday. I love you with all of my heart and I am so happy that you are a part of my life. I look forward to learning more about you and watching you grow.

A Trip "North" and Six New Pearly Whites

Two years ago the Topolski Family made the (short) trip up to Geneva Park, which is just outside Orillia, or for those who like to gamble, about three minutes from Rama. This year, our family decided that a reunion was in order. So family members from all over came for this joyous mini get-away. The Dietrich-Topolski Family travelled from Belgium, Ola and Eric joined us from Vancouver, Peter and Danka from Calgary and Sharon and Morton from Windsor. We rented a lovely 11 bedroom home and it accommodated all of us wonderfully. The Topolski Family have been vacationing at Geneva Park for the last 40 years, so it was great that so many people could attend.

There were many great memories made on this trip. Truman and his cousin, Joachim played amazingly together, they meshed like salt and pepper. When Truman woke up in the morning, the first thing he asked about was Joachim. Each morning, we sent the boys to the Shire (where Anya and Truman attended when they were kids). I was a little worried about Truman on the first morning, Wanda had gone to check on the boys and she saw Truman playing on his own, away from the other kids. I had to go and see him in action myself. When I got there, he was bossing a couple of the other boys around - now that's the Truman I know. I guess he needed the time to get comfortable.

Aunt Ola was amazing with both children, no surprise there since she works with kids for a living. She also ignited Truman's desire to spell things....he had started to be interested in how words were spelled, but now he asks about almost everything. Amazingly, he remembers how to spell the words that Ola taught him. Love it!

One afternoon, I took Truman to the beach after lunch, while Oliver was napping with Daddy. Truman and I had fun collecting shells, making sand castles and swimming. Luckily, Oopa and David came to relieve me for a bit and played in the water with Truman. The water was amazing, since it only reached chest height on the kids, so no life jackets were needed. I can't even tell you how many times David threw him under the water and Truman kept coming back for more. We finally had to pry him out, shaking from the cold water, blue lips and all. I think he spent a total of 4 hours in the water.

Poor Oliver had a little bit of a rough trip, five teeth decided to pop out at once. Although, he wasn't that cranky considering the quantity of teeth coming in, he definitely was not himself. He barely ate (except for bread) and had extremely long naps. Oliver for whatever reason did not like the lake water (he's a pool guy) and also didn't like touching sand. So, basically he is not that into the beach. His favourite pastime was climbing the stairs at the house, he loves to climb stairs!

One evening, we decided to let the boys have a sleep-over, thinking that it would be a good idea, and that the kids would easily fall asleep because they were so tired. Well, both Joachim and Truman are talkers, so you can only imagine where this was going. Truman and Joachim were discussing whether or not monsters exist and if they were under the bed. After a few empty threats, turning on lights, turning off lights, nothing was going to get these kids to sleep. Both boys were exhausted, and Truman easily fell asleep in his own bed, alone. Although, when Truman woke up he asked where Joachim was. Maybe, we will try again before his cousin returns to Europe.

Baba, the amazing woman she is, also joined us at Geneva Park. I could tell she was so happy to be with her family. She completely stunned me, when one late afternoon, she walked down to the beach with Danka, to see her four great-grandsons play.

We are now home, and back into routine (somewhat) and are planning to enjoy the last few weeks of summer. Oliver has decided to pop one last tooth (why stop now?). We have Truman's birthday to celebrate in a few weeks, and one last wedding to attend. I also have a road trip to take with my girlfriends (sans kids). Woop woop! Summer, summer, summertime!

Happy First Birthday Oliver!!

One year ago, Jerry and I headed to the hospital for the birth of our second baby. We were having a planned c-section, so we believed that everything was in order. However, our doctor asked us to move up the date of the birth from July 14th to the 11th. Why would I even think about negotiating with the man who was about to cut me open?? Oliver Henri Topolski was born at 11:34 am and we could not be more delighted to see and hold him. We had been waiting for our baby for a long time. We were not shocked that we had another boy and to be honest I was happy to be giving Truman a little brother.

Since this was our second baby, things seemed a lot easier. Jerry and I adjusted very quickly to having a new bundle of joy at home. I was often told that having a second child is a lot more work, but I haven't found that. I mean, I am a lot busier, but Oliver has been such an easy baby and Truman such a helpful and excellent big brother.

I am often told by people that Oliver has a sense of calm about him. I couldn't agree more. Since his birth, he fills me with such a sense of peace and joy. He has a sweet, good-natured way about him and he rarely gives me trouble (except for eating). He takes his time with things and is very happy-go-lucky. I feel so very blessed to have him in my life. I really believe that our children teach us things about life and both Truman and Oliver have some good lessons!

We celebrated Oliver's birthday yesterday with family and a few close friends. It was a beautiful day and I am hoping that everyone enjoyed themselves and had a lot of fun. My dear sister, made the most beautiful cupcake cake and Aunt Misty was our photographer. A big THANK YOU to both!!! Oliver seemed to have a lot of fun (he loves kids) and enjoyed having cake for the first time! YUM!

There seem to be changes everyday in my youngest son, and he keeps surprising me with new tricks. He loves to climb up stairs (yes, we have baby proofed the house), he will blow kisses to say good-bye, and he loves to clap his hands and dance to music. He has become a very speedy crawler and I am hoping that he doesn't walk too soon! Then mommy will have two boys to run after!

Today we went to the doctor for Oliver's 12 month check-up. I was shocked with the numbers and percentiles. Oliver weighs 22lbs which is the 38th percentile and is 75cm long (42nd percentile). He's a chubby baby, so I thought for sure his percentile would have been higher! He's just lighter than he looks! He did very well with his shots even though the appointment was in the middle of his nap time.

I've attached a few more pictures of the party:

I think most of you already know, but recently I resigned from my job to stay home with Oliver and Truman. It is something I have been thinking about and considering for awhile now. I am very thankful and excited for the opportunity to be with them and experiencing the many, many milestones with both of them.

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY OLIVER!!!

What's New?

Oliver turned 11 months on June 11th (which also happens to be Avery's birthday...more about his special day in a little bit). Oliver is now doing a few "tricks" and has changed so much over the past few weeks. Firstly, he loves to play peek-a-boo...he will cover his eyes with an object and wait for you to say "Where is Olie" and giggles in delight before he shows his eyes! He also said his first word "dog" to Morrie of course! Although it sounds more like "dah", but I'll take it!

As I mentioned earlier, Avery had his 2nd birthday on June 11th. We celebrated at the O'Brien home and had very full tummies when we left. Tina out did herself once again, and I was grateful to have been able to sample most of the menu. Yum! Truman and Avery had a blast playing outside together. Let me tell you, that both boys were a filthy mess by the end of the afternoon!

Truman was very sad that he wasn't given the first piece of cake. I explained to him that since it was Avery's birthday, he got the first piece. He wasn't happy about it at all. Lately he wants to be the first at everything and treats every meal as a race. I'm so afraid he is going to choke, especially when he shoves a whole bunch of food in his mouth.

On Saturday, Oliver started crawling! A fabulous Father's day gift for Jerry. Oliver loves that he can move (although he was very content before) and explore. Probably like most babies he beelines for the electronics. Let the baby proofing begin. How life is about to change for me. Luckily I have the best helper, Truman who warns me when Oliver is about to approach somewhere he is not suppose to be or touch something that should be left alone. He is an excellent big brother, at least for now.

On Sunday we had the whole family over (Brauns, O'Briens, and Topolskis) to celebrate Father's Day. Avery and Truman once again had so much fun playing together. It is hard to believe that next year, Elliott and Oliver will be joining in on the action. We spent most of the day in the pool enjoying the sunshine and it wouldn't be a celebration without food!

On Wednesday, we went over to Baba's to celebrate her 94th birthday. Happy Birthday Baba! We celebrated with some delicious pizza (which Oliver has come to enjoy), cake and ice cream! What a lovely evening. Oliver also surprised me on Wednesday with his second word "momma" and I am quite delighted! It sounds so sweet when he says it too!

It is Better in the Bahamas!

We recently returned from a four night vacation in the Bahamas....Jerry has always wanted to visit Atlantis, so we decided this would be a great place for us to take a family vacation. Jerry had just finished his four month trial and we wanted to get away and just be.



Atlantis is huge, in fact we didn't even have a chance to explore the entire resort...I guess this means we will have to return again one day! Truman LOVED it! He couldn't get over all of the marine life. From turtles to fish, to sharks and dolphins. In fact, one morning Jerry and Truman took an excursion and swam with the dolphins. Truman fed his dolphin fish and gave him a huge hug and kiss!

We discovered an amazing water area designed just for little ones. Oliver was able to sit and splash in the water. My only complaint was that there was not enough shade....thank goodness for sunscreen. Truman loved the water slides and we had a hard time tearing him away from this area.

Truman loved the not-so-lazy river! I think he went on it several times with Jerry and I. For some reason, every time Truman and I would approach a rapid, we were heading through them backward....lucky us! They also had a very lazy river at our hotel which the whole family was able to enjoy - Oliver included.

The best part about the trip for me was discovering a Starbucks at the marina so that I was able to partake in my daily caffeine fix. Funny enough, it wasn't priced as exuberant as the bottled water ($1o USD for a large bottle)...insane! The food was good and thank goodness we were on the meal plan or we would have shelled out a small fortune to eat.

As quickly as we got into a routine, it was time to go home. We were all a little sad, but happy to know that we will probably return again sometime. Can you believe that we didn't even manage to get to the beach?

10 Months and the Gurgles

How is it possible that Oliver is already 10 months? I am so not ready to leave my little baby and feel that I have not yet had enough time with him. Oliver is such an easy child (I should bite my tongue), and the only difficulty he poses on me is that he just doesn't like to eat. I shouldn't worry about this too much, and remind myself about my dear sister who was a horrible eater as a child and now is a chef! By the way, how many cheerios a day is too much?

Oliver's favourite activity of late is standing. In fact, he hates to sit and wants to be upright on his feet all the time. He even has attempted to cruise along the table. He also will use only one hand to hold on to objects and is desperately trying to figure out how to bend and pick things up off the floor. I figure I don't have too much time before he is on the move. Although, I doubt if he will ever crawl!

And then there is Truman...my dear son! I had a true Mother's Day finale on Sunday night when I found my little boy in a pool of puke....he continued to throw up a number of times before all was said and done. He told me that his tummy had the gurgles and that he never wanted to gurgle again. Don't blame him! However, I told him that he will probably gurgle a lot when he goes to university. The worst part about it, he was so worried about the mess. Ah, he is his father's son!

Truman is full of imagination and story telling these days. For example, Truman has decided that our family needs another baby and that we should name that baby Jake. It doesn't matter what Jake's gender is, the name is decided on as Jake is his best friend at school. Today as we drove to school, Truman declared that we would need a bigger car as there would not be enough room for Jake. Needless to say, I will be breaking my son's heart.

9 Months and Tennis Anyone?

On Monday, our dear Oliver turned 9 months. We had not been to the doctor for three months, so Jerry and I were eager to find out Oliver's weight. To our surprise, Oliver weighed in at (only) 19.5lbs which places him in the 34th percentile. I was sure he would have been over 20 lbs. However, he is a compact little fella and is only 72cm, which is the 54th percentile for length. We also learned that Oliver has a double ear infection...which explains his crankiness over the past few weeks. We opted for no antibiotics at this time, as we are not sure if the infection is just starting or on the way out. We have a follow up appointment on Monday, so fingers crossed the infection is gone.

Oliver is turning out to be a babbler, just like his older brother. He probably feels the need to get a word...it can be difficult when Truman is around. Truman told me today that he really likes to talk! Really? I would never have known! Now, we just have to work on his volume, especially first thing in the morning.

Truman, not only can spell his name, he can also write his name (with some assistance). Last week when I picked him up from school he had a few pictures where he had written his name on them. I am incredibly proud of him. I have also taught him how to spell MOM. I won't however, tell you how I bribed him to learn it!

Truman had his very first tennis lesson this afternoon with his friend Harry. Since, we have tennis courts practically across the street we had to sign him up for lessons. Jerry and I were a little hesitant at first, not only because of his age, but his ability to pay attention. Harry and Truman were adorable with their raquets and both boys seemed to have a good time.

Happy Easter

Wow! What a jammed packed long weekend! Who knew we could have had such beautiful warm weather in April? On Friday, after a few minor setbacks Truman, Oliver and I headed down to Aunt Tina and Uncle Pat's house while Jerry attended his annual "man walk" event. Pat spent the day chasing after Avery and Truman, while Tina and I cared for the two little ones. Both boys had a blast playing in the castles of High Park and then a quick stroll through the High Park Zoo. The day would not have been complete without a yummy picnic in the park. We ended the afternoon with a little game of soccer once we got back to the OBrien's home.

The boys and I then headed to Oakville to have dinner with the Sullivan's and Thornton's. Oliver enjoyed being pushed in the swing, and Truman had an incident involving a ladybug and light saber. Myriah prepared a delicious dinner for us and it was so great watching all the kids play together.

Saturday morning the Topolski Family took a walk to Tim Horton's where Oliver enjoyed his first TH bagel. After breakfast we headed to the second annual Easter Egg Hunt in our neighbourhood. This year there were almost forty kids in attendance. Truman had fun and took his time finding he right eggs and to make sure they were clean (yes, he really takes after his father in this regard). Saturday evening we met the Starkman's for dinner at the Sit Down Dirty Bird and then off to DQ for some ice cream.

Sunday morning we headed to Nanny and Oopa's for a massive Easter brunch. After we stuffed ourselves, Avery and Truman went outside for yet another Easter Egg Hunt. Both boys worked well together, although Avery was a little more interested in playing with his truck than hunting for eggs. Next year, Oliver and Elliott will be able to join in the festivities.

Oliver has learned a new trick, when sitting he likes to use his arms to shimmy around on the floor. Truman can now spell his name and is continuing to learn to write letters, he mastered the letter "T". He often gets frustrated these days when drawing and feels as though he is unable to draw things correctly. We are continuously encouraging him to practice. However, his true love continues to be puzzels and it is amazing how quickly he can complete them. We also bathed both boys together for the first time this weekend and Truman loved every minute of it!

Welcoming Elliott!!

On Wednesday March 17th Tina, Pat and Avery welcomed their newest addition to the O'Brien family, Elliott to the world. The little guy weighed a dainty 6lbs 10oz and is super sweet. He looks a little like his older brother Av, but definitely has his own unique features. Avery is already turning out to be an excellent big brother (no surprise there) and is super interested in Elliott. Little Ellie, we cannot wait to see you grow!

A few weeks ago, I had such a sad day, when I realized how big my dear Truman has become. You see, Oliver will soon be moving out of the bucket, so we were on the market for a new car seat for Truman. When we got to the store, we realized that Truman was now ready (height and weight wise) for a booster seat. I couldn't (or rather didn't) want to believe it. How could my baby be ready for a normal seat belt and sit on that tiny seat. I solicited everyone I knew who had kids and would ask them what they would do. The answers were varied, so I did some research, and everything came up the same....I had to face the inevitable. He is physically ready for a booster. On that same shopping trip, we also realized that Truman was also too big for most of the double strollers on the market, or our time would be limited. What a sad, sad, day!

Jerry took Truman to his first movie in a theatre last weekend. They went to see Planet 51 with Harry and Shane. The boys had a great time at the show, munching on popcorn. I am sure Truman will love the movies as much as his daddy does!

Truman is also fully a teenager....as many of you know I call the three's the threenagers...and here is the perfect example. The other day we were driving home from school and I asked him the same question I ask him every day..."What was your favourite thing about today?" Truman replied "Mom, I don't want to talk to you about this right now". Seriously? So, I asked him again at dinner thinking it may be a better time and got the same response. He had no interest in sharing his day with me. I had a complete glimpse of what the teenage years will be like with him...I was completely shut out.

Our Oliver continues to be as sweet as ever. He is still enjoying food (as long as it is not a vegetable) and seems to enjoy experimenting with tastes and textures. He still prefers to eat himself, so I am continuing to encourage this. He is using the pincher grasp now and LOVES cheerios. He still has little desire to move, which is fine by me. He loves playing with balls and I cannot even explain the excitement he has when he is playing with one.

8 Months and Counting

Last week my dear Oliver turned 8 months, which I have to admit was a little sad for me. Four more months and he will be a year old. I really don't want this stage to end, it truly is the honeymoon period. I know in the next few months more challenges await me. I think I am also mourning the fact that this will most likely be my last baby so I am trying to cherish each and every moment.

So what's new? Oliver has FINALLY taken to solids...yipee! He still prefers to eat himself, but will oblige me and eat some purees. Yesterday he had a grilled cheese sandwich for the first time and today he tried Cheerios...he couldn't get enough of them. He doesn't yet have the pincer grasp, so it can be a bit frustrating for him at times. We are also nicely settling into a routine....eat, play, sleep, repeat two times!

Truman finished his ski lessons and is eager to take them again, although we will have to wait until next year since the snow has disappeared. Truman continues to be very helpful and kind to his little brother, except of course when Oliver is playing with one of his toys. I can see the fights that I will have to mediate in the future. Oliver idolizes Truman and will laugh and smile even if Truman hits him. OK, so maybe Truman isn't so kind all the time :)

We discovered on the weekend that Truman is big enough to move into a booster seat. It was very difficult for me, as I realized that he isn't little anymore and is a big kid. I mean, I have always known he was tall and big for his age and looks like a five year old, but to now know we will be moving him shortly breaks my heart. I am not ready for this, although Jerry is beyond excited for the extra room it will create in the car.

We are now patiently waiting for the next arrival of the O'Brien household....any day now. We are wishing Tina a quick and happy delivery. I am honestly waiting every morning for the anticipated phone call letting us know the little one is here!