Meltdown City.

Population: One Makster



Boy, can this kid throw a tantrum. We've been following the Love and Logic parenting strategy. It's pretty tough sometimes while they go through phases, though. We seem to be stuck in a HUGE tantrum phase. It doesn't help that Mak is teething big time. Looks like he's getting four teeth at once and it's wreaking havoc on our normally calm routine.

The best thing we can do is stay consistent. But look at this face!



It can be *SO* hard to say no to this face! Alas, I'm building lots of willpower and standing my ground. And Mak understands a lot more than I give him credit for. We're doing a lot of positive reinforcement... High five'ing when he follows the rules and lots of cheering when he listens to our directions (i.e. "put the block away, please" or "sit down in the bathtub"). I have faith that we'll get through this testing phase and come out with a wonderful, well-behaved little boy.

Until the next phase, at least. :) I do so very much love this face:



Yes, he was Darth Vader for Halloween. And look at that happy smile!

Much love,
The Dolfos.

A year.

October 2009:


This gorgeous baby boy of mine was born at 5:06am and weighed 6 pounds and 15 ounces.

One year later, he's up to a whopping 25 pounds, walking, running, signing and even a few words.



My eyes well up as I think about this past year, all of its ups and downs and in betweens. Learning to be "Mom" was not easy. It tested my patience. It tested my will. It tested my commitment. It tested my relationships. It certainly tested my sanity. They aren't kidding when they say sleep deprivation is the hardest part of being a new parent.



I wouldn't trade a second. Not even a millisecond. The joy this little boy has brought into our lives is indescribable and irreplaceable. A year later and I know:

*just how much patience I have
*what an amazing father Brad is
*how fun it is watching my parents be grandparents
*messes are NOT worth the stress, but ARE worth laughter
*that it's okay for me to nap when he naps
*the laundry will always be there for me to do tomorrow
*the best thing I can accomplish all day is making my baby laugh
*my marriage is a lot stronger than I gave it credit for
*that I can never take too many pictures
*and that being late is worth every hug and kiss.



As we move into our second year, I look forward to seeing more of Mak's rambunctious personality. Something tells me I have a sweet little mischievous boy on my hands. Here's hoping I can nurture more sweet than mischievous! :)

Much love,
The Dolfos.