Every other Saturday Eric picks up Levi and Vivian for his weekend with them. This week, they had both been talking about wanting to stay home, since ever since I went back to work when they were 4 the weekends were what they looked forward to, weekends have always been my time off, and they got to have me all day. Even if we just ha=ung around the house, they felt comforted that I was home. Since I have been working longer hours the last few weeks, they've really looked forward to my days off. So, as Saturday approached, both of them were telling me they wanted to stay home. This isn't all that unusual, and normally, as Saturday morning rolls around, they change their minds and are excited to go with Daddy.
This weekend was different, Levi was adamant that he wanted to stay home. Vivian did decide she wanted to go with Daddy as usual, although she wished her brother was going too. So, as I kissed Vivi goodbye, Levi sat in the swing on the porch. The silver lining in this cloud is that Eric and I each got a day with just one, although I still had Megan... But it's highly unsual to get one-on-one time with our multiples. I know that Vivian is enjoying having Daddy all to herself as much as Levi enjoyed being momma's only little one for a day.
And I got a reminder of the days before multiples: not only the one-on-one time, but the ease of caring for just one. Bath time was so simple. Dinner was a breeze.
So this morning, I'm heading to Eric's to drop Levi off for the rest of the weekend. Eric usually brings them home Monday.
But today - If you're local, go to the Wendy's on 192nd Ave. and get your car washed by Vivian's gymnastics team!! They're doing a carwash to help cover the cost of competitions for the upcoming season. Suggested donation is $5.00, but donate whatever you can, please! The gymnasts will be there from 1-4pm washing cars. More information here !
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
8.16.2011
Look, Ma! No training wheels!!
After work yesterday, as I was finishing the last of the detail on the van, Levi asked if we could go for a bike ride. Vivian was at gymnastics, and we had a little time, and after all, I'm always up for a bike ride... So heck yeah!
Levi and I rode to the corner store, he wanted a root beer. I rode the Zigo minus the child pod, and he rode his Glider, he's so fast on the glider, he keeps up with and outrides Vivian most of the time... We had a great, albeit short, ride, and even stopped by the local "haunted House". Hehe, this is a house just a street down from us that has been vacant for quite a while, and Levi is convinced that it is haunted! Then we rode home. The Glider has taught Levi to balance without him needing to learn how to pedal. Along with the glider, he has used a power pumper up until last summer when we passed it on to another kid that could use it, and also riden his "Green Machine" since getting it for Christmas, so he's been practicing the pedaling!
So, after our bike ride, we rode in front of the house. I talked to him about how well he was balancing, and asked if he was ready to try his Hot Wheels pedal bike. 'We'll just take one training wheel off, k Bud?'. He was a bit nervous. He didn;t want to try it because the neighbor kid was outside with his buddy. But he did it.
And, for the last time, with the youngest of my children, I got to run beside him until he was confident enough for me to let go of his bike. Looking back now, it's so bittersweet. Ahhh. the last time, really?? Is this happening? They're all growing up! Brings tears to my eyes as I write it...
But, thanks to all his hard work on the glider, in Occupational and Physical therapy, thanks to all his determination, my youngest boy, my little Levi, in all of less than five minutes, had his training wheels both off, and now
He says it's a Birthday present for me! (Aww, Bud, that's the BEST present in the world! ) And the last thing I heard as he drifted off to sleep... "Momma, I'm so glad I can ride a pedal bike!"
Erika
© erikalandon 2011
Levi and I rode to the corner store, he wanted a root beer. I rode the Zigo minus the child pod, and he rode his Glider, he's so fast on the glider, he keeps up with and outrides Vivian most of the time... We had a great, albeit short, ride, and even stopped by the local "haunted House". Hehe, this is a house just a street down from us that has been vacant for quite a while, and Levi is convinced that it is haunted! Then we rode home. The Glider has taught Levi to balance without him needing to learn how to pedal. Along with the glider, he has used a power pumper up until last summer when we passed it on to another kid that could use it, and also riden his "Green Machine" since getting it for Christmas, so he's been practicing the pedaling!
So, after our bike ride, we rode in front of the house. I talked to him about how well he was balancing, and asked if he was ready to try his Hot Wheels pedal bike. 'We'll just take one training wheel off, k Bud?'. He was a bit nervous. He didn;t want to try it because the neighbor kid was outside with his buddy. But he did it.
And, for the last time, with the youngest of my children, I got to run beside him until he was confident enough for me to let go of his bike. Looking back now, it's so bittersweet. Ahhh. the last time, really?? Is this happening? They're all growing up! Brings tears to my eyes as I write it...
But, thanks to all his hard work on the glider, in Occupational and Physical therapy, thanks to all his determination, my youngest boy, my little Levi, in all of less than five minutes, had his training wheels both off, and now
Is riding a two-wheeler all by himself!!!
OK, OK, I keep holding the camera at the wrong orientation when I tape videos - just hold your head sideways for a couple seconds, and I promise to do better next time, LOL!
Erika
© erikalandon 2011
7.22.2011
My beautiful baby girl Megan
She makes me proud. She frustrates me. She amazes me. She loves her brothers and sister, she adores her friends, and she is always willing to help if anyone needs it. She is about to start her senior year at Evergreen High School. At 9 years old, she learned all of Vivian's trach care, and became the only person besides myself and the nurses that could change Vivian's trach or care for it. Levi called her Megan-mommy because when I went back to work she helped him in those early morning times when he needed hugs, love and comfort. Now, she watches Levi and Vivian for the summer while I work weekdays. My Megan is such a blessing to me... and today she's 17!!!
17 years ago, I sat in a hospital room in Portland with David and Grandma Kathy and welcomed my Megan into this world... We scheduled an induction the day after she was due: July 21st was her due date, and I has gone so far past due with Matt three years before, we weren't letting that happen again. So, at 1:30 am, July 22nd, 1994, we welcomed all 7lbs 31/2 oz of Megan to this world. She was such a peanut, and I was amazed by how small she was...
So - My Megan, Happy Happy Happy 17th Birthday. I love you more than you'll ever realize, and I am so proud of all that you do!
Happy Birthday Megan!!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
So - My Megan, Happy Happy Happy 17th Birthday. I love you more than you'll ever realize, and I am so proud of all that you do!
Happy Birthday Megan!!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
6.25.2011
Cars 2 3D... Yes!!
After work last night, Vivian, Levi and I caught opening day of Cars 2 in 3D!!
I was a bit trepidatious - The kids have only been in a movie theater twice. With Levi's SPD, he usually has a hard time with loud noises.
But - we bought tickets from Fandango , got a large popcorn and a large soda (which is a big treat fro Levi and Vivian since I don't give them soda except once in a blue moon...
3D glasses in hand, we sat down to watch the movie. The theater wasn't very full, so it was perfect for the kids to be comfortable and enjoy the movie. The oooh's and ahhh's as they got the full effect of the 3D was so amazing to hear.
All-in-all, we enjoyed the movie, and will add it to the collection of movies in our DVD drawer! If we're able to drive down to see Grampa this year that'll surely be a favorite movie to watch on the ride!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
I was a bit trepidatious - The kids have only been in a movie theater twice. With Levi's SPD, he usually has a hard time with loud noises.
But - we bought tickets from Fandango , got a large popcorn and a large soda (which is a big treat fro Levi and Vivian since I don't give them soda except once in a blue moon...
3D glasses in hand, we sat down to watch the movie. The theater wasn't very full, so it was perfect for the kids to be comfortable and enjoy the movie. The oooh's and ahhh's as they got the full effect of the 3D was so amazing to hear.
All-in-all, we enjoyed the movie, and will add it to the collection of movies in our DVD drawer! If we're able to drive down to see Grampa this year that'll surely be a favorite movie to watch on the ride!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
6.17.2011
Lucas' Journey with SPD Super Mega Blog Hop!!
Check out Lucas' Journey W/SPD, they've entered a contest and could win some much needed funds that would help with therapy items for Lucas this summer!! Click on the button above and follow the links to the contest!!
Good luck Lucas and Debbie, too!!
Be sure to tell her how you found her, and follow back!!
Have a great weekend!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
We made it almost ten years. This Fathers day would have been 10 years since Eric and I started dating. The house is a bit quieter, yet much more calm.
I'm not sure yet. Levi and Vivian are handling things pretty well. We talked about thinking about it like 'Daddy's on the truck and he'll be home this weekend.' He didn't usually have runs THAT long, usually it was only 3 days, but the idea seems to be working.
Will they get used to him not being home?
Occasionally one of the little one's will ask about daddy. They want to see him. I want them to see him. Levi wonders why Daddy isn't there to play basketball anymore. Yeah - that one breaks my heart a bit...
The things I worry about pale in comparison to what I worry about for the kids’ sake… I can handle the bills. I can handle the running and always-on-the-go-for-the-kids single parenthood.
I have a couple books on the way. One for them, suggested by a friend who has gone through a divorce with her two young kids. When Dinosaurs Divorce arrives I actually look forward to reading it with the kids. I hope they are able to ask the questions that are on their minds. And when Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way arrives I hope it will help me find the answers that are on my mind.
And Megan, she celebrated her 7th birthday the year Eric and I started dating, it was the first birthday she celebrated with him. Next month, when she turns 17, she will celebrate the first birthday in 10 years without her step-dad in the house. She should be excited for Summer to begin. She should be excited for her Senior year of High School. But she’s worried. Worried we’ll have to move. Worried that her little brother and sister are going to go through what her and her older brother went through when their dad and I divorced.
There's lots of questions, lots to take care of, lots to do. But we're resilient, we're strong, we're able...
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
The calm before the storm?
I'm not sure yet. Levi and Vivian are handling things pretty well. We talked about thinking about it like 'Daddy's on the truck and he'll be home this weekend.' He didn't usually have runs THAT long, usually it was only 3 days, but the idea seems to be working.
Will they get used to him not being home?
Occasionally one of the little one's will ask about daddy. They want to see him. I want them to see him. Levi wonders why Daddy isn't there to play basketball anymore. Yeah - that one breaks my heart a bit...
Will he eventually stop asking that?
The things I worry about pale in comparison to what I worry about for the kids’ sake… I can handle the bills. I can handle the running and always-on-the-go-for-the-kids single parenthood.
Will they think it’s their fault?
I have a couple books on the way. One for them, suggested by a friend who has gone through a divorce with her two young kids. When Dinosaurs Divorce arrives I actually look forward to reading it with the kids. I hope they are able to ask the questions that are on their minds. And when Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way arrives I hope it will help me find the answers that are on my mind.
Will the books help?
And Megan, she celebrated her 7th birthday the year Eric and I started dating, it was the first birthday she celebrated with him. Next month, when she turns 17, she will celebrate the first birthday in 10 years without her step-dad in the house. She should be excited for Summer to begin. She should be excited for her Senior year of High School. But she’s worried. Worried we’ll have to move. Worried that her little brother and sister are going to go through what her and her older brother went through when their dad and I divorced.
Will I be able effectively ease her fears?
There's lots of questions, lots to take care of, lots to do. But we're resilient, we're strong, we're able...
Divorce just sucks.
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
6.06.2011
When is it okay to lie? Words from a couple seven-year-olds...
On the way home from gymnastics we have the greatest conversations...
Levi is a story teller like his Daddy. He loves to embellish his stories. So, routinely I will listen to a story and then ask "Levi, if I were to ask someone that was there with you, would the story still be the same?" Ultimately he will come clean.
And that was how it started on the way home...
"mom, I saw 8 rabbits at the park today!"
"really, wow! Would Daddy tell me the same number if I asked him about the rabbits?"
"well, I saw ONE, but it was really cute!!"
"nice!"
then, contemplatively quiet from Vivian..."there's only some times that it is okay to lie"
Really? When viv?
well, like if your friend is missing and you know something you can lie and say you don't... (isn't that backwards?)
Levi pipes in - You mean if your friend gets kidnapped and you see it happen and the bad guy says "don't tell anyone!" you can say you won't and then get away and tell a grown up so they can find your friend.
I like your idea better, Levi... AND I love that you and your sister can work together to finish each others' thoughts and navigate this world!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
Levi is a story teller like his Daddy. He loves to embellish his stories. So, routinely I will listen to a story and then ask "Levi, if I were to ask someone that was there with you, would the story still be the same?" Ultimately he will come clean.
And that was how it started on the way home...
"mom, I saw 8 rabbits at the park today!"
"really, wow! Would Daddy tell me the same number if I asked him about the rabbits?"
"well, I saw ONE, but it was really cute!!"
"nice!"
then, contemplatively quiet from Vivian..."there's only some times that it is okay to lie"
Really? When viv?
well, like if your friend is missing and you know something you can lie and say you don't... (isn't that backwards?)
Levi pipes in - You mean if your friend gets kidnapped and you see it happen and the bad guy says "don't tell anyone!" you can say you won't and then get away and tell a grown up so they can find your friend.
I like your idea better, Levi... AND I love that you and your sister can work together to finish each others' thoughts and navigate this world!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
6.03.2011
She's. Just. Like. You.
I look across the gym. She's bouncing, bopping and running.
Just like all the other girls.
Some are younger, yet taller, than she, but not by far.
Some are older and more experienced at the gymnastics moves that she is trying to master. But she's working hard to be as good as those that she looks up to...
Just like all the other girls.
I watch as she stands in line, waiting her turn on the uneven bars for practice.
Just like all the other girls.
The girl in front of her is twirling and bouncing; just. like. her.
Until she turns around. Then the girl notice's it. To us, it's a badge of honor. She went through so much for it to be JUST a scar. It's barely there. But her teammate noticed it.
I kept a watchful mommy eye on the two. The girl looked and cocked her head a bit; leaned in a little closer. She turned around. Then looked back at the scar again. Then IT happened.
The part of Vivian's day that she talks about at night. The part that bothers her.
She asked: "what is that?"
I couldn't tell what Vivian said, and I did not ask later. She'll tell me if she needs to. I don't know if she told her it's a trach scar, or if she told her the latest suggestion that my mommy-mind gave her, simply that she had surgery there. But whatever she told her, her teammate turned her attention back to the bars and the girl there practicing.
I wanted to scream. "Why even ask? Why does it matter? It's a badge of honor - this little girl of mine went through so much to stand here and TALK!! Just leave it alone!!" Everyone wants to know why she talks funny. Why she has the scars. Why she screams like that. Geeze - they told me for three years that she would NEVER talk. NEVER!! Her voice is beautiful, she loves her dolls, she rides a bike and practices her gymnastics even at home...
She's just a little girl. Just. Like. You!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
Just like all the other girls.
Some are younger, yet taller, than she, but not by far.
Some are older and more experienced at the gymnastics moves that she is trying to master. But she's working hard to be as good as those that she looks up to...
Just like all the other girls.
I watch as she stands in line, waiting her turn on the uneven bars for practice.
Just like all the other girls.
The girl in front of her is twirling and bouncing; just. like. her.
Until she turns around. Then the girl notice's it. To us, it's a badge of honor. She went through so much for it to be JUST a scar. It's barely there. But her teammate noticed it.
I kept a watchful mommy eye on the two. The girl looked and cocked her head a bit; leaned in a little closer. She turned around. Then looked back at the scar again. Then IT happened.
The part of Vivian's day that she talks about at night. The part that bothers her.
She asked: "what is that?"
I couldn't tell what Vivian said, and I did not ask later. She'll tell me if she needs to. I don't know if she told her it's a trach scar, or if she told her the latest suggestion that my mommy-mind gave her, simply that she had surgery there. But whatever she told her, her teammate turned her attention back to the bars and the girl there practicing.
I wanted to scream. "Why even ask? Why does it matter? It's a badge of honor - this little girl of mine went through so much to stand here and TALK!! Just leave it alone!!" Everyone wants to know why she talks funny. Why she has the scars. Why she screams like that. Geeze - they told me for three years that she would NEVER talk. NEVER!! Her voice is beautiful, she loves her dolls, she rides a bike and practices her gymnastics even at home...
She's just a little girl. Just. Like. You!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
5.11.2011
Mothers Day - bittersweet always when one is missing...
 |
| Levi made the coolest card - opens up to be a duck!! Vivian made all sorts of pictures and cards for me, and both the little one's made crowns for Momma to wear!!! |
Mothers Day. I love my kids. I want to spend every moment with them that I can. I miss them every moment that I am at work. I am so lucky to be the mother of 5 wonderfully amazing kids... But I would give anything DAILY to be able to hold one of those five kids... Momma loves you little Eric...
So - for mothers day, I want to share with you a sampling of my children's own words...
4AM Sunday morning: Levi rolls over because he had strategically placed himself (and Vivian) in my bed during the night, "ohhhh, Mom! Happy mothers day, I have to poop bad!". I love my random Levi in the mornings! The next two hours were spent giggling and snuggling in front of the tv until his tummy settled...
10 AM on the way to pick Megan up from her friend Megan's house: Vivian was a little upset that Daddy hadn't let her go with him to pick out the flowers for the front porch. I convinced her that it was okay, that the flowers she drew on my card meant more than anything!
 |
| Card my nephew Junior sent me for Mothers Day... Thanks Junior!!! |
My Megan - (what is it with the girls??) She was upset also, that she had asked Eric to take her to the store to get me something and he didn't want to go to the store again. So - I reminded her about what items I squirrel away in my bottom drawer... The one's that they MAKE for me. The one's made from heir love...
My Matt... He's working now. He's happy to be working,but it means I see him less now. He calls me on his way to work "sorry mom, I just realized that I hadn't said Happy Mothers Day yet." That's okay... to hear those from my almost 20-year-old son is enough. Doesn't matter if they're said at 4AM or 2PM...
My husband - I am proud to have the privilege of being the mother to three of his children. Like I have said, my kids are amazing. Eric isn't the gift type, hasn't been for the last 7 years. I guess the way he looks at it I'm not HIS mother, so Mothers Day is just another day... But no matter - I am the luckiest lady alive to have these great kids.
My mom, my sister, my sister in law and my friends wished me a Happy Mothers Day, and thank you all - I did enjoy Mothers Day - But next year I think I will enjoy it out of town with my kids. Some time away would be so nice!!!
And as always - Missing you Little Eric -one day you will be in my arms again and not just in my heart. Thank you for letting me be your Mommy!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
4.28.2011
March for Babies is 2 days away...
Are you walking with us???
8:00 AM
April 30, 2011
100 Columbia Street
Vancouver, WA 98660
(meet at our house between 6:30 and 7:00 if leaving from there with us)
8:00 AM
April 30, 2011
100 Columbia Street
Vancouver, WA 98660
(meet at our house between 6:30 and 7:00 if leaving from there with us)
© erikalandon 2010
4.20.2011
Night Terrors... ongoing...
Levi has night terrors. Not nightmares, but these terrors. They suck. I'm sure they suck for him as much as they do for me, but the *good* thing about them is he has virtually no memory of them if I can calm him without waking him. It's so hard to stand next to my child that is screaming that he needs you and that he can't do this while trying to comfort him and tell him that I'm there when he is not awake and can't understand that I am there.
But Levi has come a long way. When he was little (infant to toddler) he woke alot at night, also had Night Terrors then, but was small, easy to carry and I had ways to calm him. As he's grown some of the methods have contiued to work, some have not. And my need for sleep has also prohibited some of these methods that I was able to employ when I wasn't working 60+ hours a week.
The thing that has stayed the same throughout is Levi's sweet demeanor when he is not in the middle of a terror. He is so loving, so caring. I never get tired of his impromptu "mommy, I love you" or even hearing him tell his brother or sisters the same thing.
The night terrors are believed to be yet another symptom of his central nervous system disorder, another part of his Sensory Processing Disorder, but thankfully it is something he doesn't remember the next morning. He awakens thinking he had a good night. If he is woken during them, he asks me the next day why he is different and can he just have a new body. That's heartbreaking. As long as I am able to keep his terrors from waking Daddy, they usually resolve quickly. But yes, I do look forward to a day when I am able to go to bed in the evening and not awaken until 2:30 or 3:00 am when it is time to get up for work! But, the coolest part of Levi's active sleeping is that between 3 and 3:30 each morning it's not uncommon to hear him giggle and talk in his sleep... the times he has remembered he has told me that he was playing with Little Eric!
There's even more information about SPD on Lucas' Journey with SPD; follow them on their Easter Weekend Blog Hop here:
She's got some really cute Easter ideas and Giveaways on her blog! Remember to leave her a comment telling her where you got the link, and comment here, too, so I can follow back!!
Happy Easter Weekend!!
Good Friday: 4 years from the day Vivian's Trach was closed!!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
But Levi has come a long way. When he was little (infant to toddler) he woke alot at night, also had Night Terrors then, but was small, easy to carry and I had ways to calm him. As he's grown some of the methods have contiued to work, some have not. And my need for sleep has also prohibited some of these methods that I was able to employ when I wasn't working 60+ hours a week.
The thing that has stayed the same throughout is Levi's sweet demeanor when he is not in the middle of a terror. He is so loving, so caring. I never get tired of his impromptu "mommy, I love you" or even hearing him tell his brother or sisters the same thing.
The night terrors are believed to be yet another symptom of his central nervous system disorder, another part of his Sensory Processing Disorder, but thankfully it is something he doesn't remember the next morning. He awakens thinking he had a good night. If he is woken during them, he asks me the next day why he is different and can he just have a new body. That's heartbreaking. As long as I am able to keep his terrors from waking Daddy, they usually resolve quickly. But yes, I do look forward to a day when I am able to go to bed in the evening and not awaken until 2:30 or 3:00 am when it is time to get up for work! But, the coolest part of Levi's active sleeping is that between 3 and 3:30 each morning it's not uncommon to hear him giggle and talk in his sleep... the times he has remembered he has told me that he was playing with Little Eric!
There's even more information about SPD on Lucas' Journey with SPD; follow them on their Easter Weekend Blog Hop here:
She's got some really cute Easter ideas and Giveaways on her blog! Remember to leave her a comment telling her where you got the link, and comment here, too, so I can follow back!!
Happy Easter Weekend!!
Good Friday: 4 years from the day Vivian's Trach was closed!!!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
4.02.2011
28 days to make a difference...
March For Babies this year is at a very special time for my family. The walk is April 30th, which is the day 8 years ago that Eric, Levi and Vivian were concieved. Of course, following that was a very short 5 1/2 months of pregnancy and then we were thrust headlong into the world of Micro-Preemie care.
Let me tell you: This is a waaaaaaay different world than any other. A world of wires and tubes, good and bad news, joy and sorrow, miracles and let downs, the most "extreme" that I believe anything could be...
During our NICU stay with our Micropreemies we saw grea sadness and great joy. We were not the only family to lose a baby in that unit, and sadly, those losses are still happeneing today.
But - because of the research that the March of Dimes helps to fund, those losses can be stopped...
Please, CLICK HERE to donate in Eric Jr's name. Or CLICK HERE to join our team an walk with us this year!
This year we added our angel to our team - although not here on earth with us, he walks with us everyday, alwas in our hearts. what diference can WE make in 28 days? Because I'll tell you what - HE made a world of difference in his 28 days on this earth.
Join us, walk with us, donate to our team or an individual walker! Make a diffrence in the life of a Premature baby, please!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
Let me tell you: This is a waaaaaaay different world than any other. A world of wires and tubes, good and bad news, joy and sorrow, miracles and let downs, the most "extreme" that I believe anything could be...
During our NICU stay with our Micropreemies we saw grea sadness and great joy. We were not the only family to lose a baby in that unit, and sadly, those losses are still happeneing today.
But - because of the research that the March of Dimes helps to fund, those losses can be stopped...
This year we added our angel to our team - although not here on earth with us, he walks with us everyday, alwas in our hearts. what diference can WE make in 28 days? Because I'll tell you what - HE made a world of difference in his 28 days on this earth.
Join us, walk with us, donate to our team or an individual walker! Make a diffrence in the life of a Premature baby, please!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.28.2011
An Exciting week!!
I'm not really sure where to begin...First of all - sorry for the MIA status... When my world gets crazy, the first thing to slip is "mom" time, which is my computer time. But - to begin the events of last week (in pictures, no less!)
We have three new members to our house,
I got the Zigo, and I fell down the stairs to end it all!!! I'd post a picture of the huge bruise, but it's in an unpictorial area... :/
First: THE ZIGO!!!
The crew at Bike-n-Hike were GREAT to work with, they had it all put together for us, showed me a few tricks of using and uncoupling the ZIGO, and were so nice to Levi and Vivian as they perused the store in Downtown Portland looking at bikes they coveted! I had them pose for a couple pics:
We got the Zigo a day before the snow hit our area, but yes, we really did ride for a bit in the snow... We were able to go for a longer ride to do a little shopping, but generally to check out the new Zigo. I have to say I LOVE IT!! The kids, although at the top-end of size for usage, fit well. That's saying something, since this year Levi's heaight became a hinderance when in the traditional bike trailer, his head hit the top and he was uncomfortable. It is a little narrower (I was happily surprised to find that the Zigo fit width-wise through the front door of Bike-n-Hike which I a somewhat narrow door in an older building)but even being narrower than the other trailer, Levi and Vivian sat happily in it for about 10 miles.
Why do I like it??
I love the fact that it has a "moonroof" so I can see the kids from above as I ride.
We ride in mostly suburban areas, and that means smaller riding lanes with traffic close - the Zigo maneuvers well and I don't worry about getting a little off course and having the trailer swing into the roadway since I can see it all right in front of me.
I love the shifting mechanism, smooth as silk!
The ride is smooth and comfortable. I was a little worried with the small tires, but after getting on it and riding it, I'm hooked!
And... It's a real head turner. Not sure if it was the bike or the fact that we were out in 34degree weather, but I do think it was the bike!
I'll tell you about the kittens and the bruise later...
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
We have three new members to our house,
I got the Zigo, and I fell down the stairs to end it all!!! I'd post a picture of the huge bruise, but it's in an unpictorial area... :/
First: THE ZIGO!!!
The crew at Bike-n-Hike were GREAT to work with, they had it all put together for us, showed me a few tricks of using and uncoupling the ZIGO, and were so nice to Levi and Vivian as they perused the store in Downtown Portland looking at bikes they coveted! I had them pose for a couple pics:
We got the Zigo a day before the snow hit our area, but yes, we really did ride for a bit in the snow... We were able to go for a longer ride to do a little shopping, but generally to check out the new Zigo. I have to say I LOVE IT!! The kids, although at the top-end of size for usage, fit well. That's saying something, since this year Levi's heaight became a hinderance when in the traditional bike trailer, his head hit the top and he was uncomfortable. It is a little narrower (I was happily surprised to find that the Zigo fit width-wise through the front door of Bike-n-Hike which I a somewhat narrow door in an older building)but even being narrower than the other trailer, Levi and Vivian sat happily in it for about 10 miles.
Why do I like it??
I love the fact that it has a "moonroof" so I can see the kids from above as I ride.
We ride in mostly suburban areas, and that means smaller riding lanes with traffic close - the Zigo maneuvers well and I don't worry about getting a little off course and having the trailer swing into the roadway since I can see it all right in front of me.
I love the shifting mechanism, smooth as silk!
The ride is smooth and comfortable. I was a little worried with the small tires, but after getting on it and riding it, I'm hooked!
And... It's a real head turner. Not sure if it was the bike or the fact that we were out in 34degree weather, but I do think it was the bike!
I'll tell you about the kittens and the bruise later...
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.13.2011
Introducing the NEW Vivian!
Vivian has been asking for about 3 weeks to have her haircut. I have been putting it off, and putting it off. You see, she has spent the last 4 years (the length of time that she has been able to talk) telling me she WILL NOT let anyone cut her hair...
Oh-Oh, almost forgot: Tomorrow, Valentines Day 2011 is 4 years since the day we took Vivian to the hospital to remove her trach!!! Happy trach-a-versary baby girl!!
Anyways, back to today - So, I wanted to be sure she REALLY wanted it cut. Today was the day... She really did want it cut, so off we went to Lil' Snippers here in Vancouver. She was excited, and when we arrived and Levi saw the shop, so was he! Lil' Snippers is so much like the shop in Ohio that we had their first haircuts done at, and so much fun for the kids!
Vivian before:
She sat perfectly still. She was pretty patient, but she was also focused on Toy Story playing on the screen in front of her, LOL!
And... my little girl donated over 10inches of hair to Locks Of Love! I asked her about it this morning, and her first question was "Why do kids get cancer?" We talked about the Locks Of Love organization, and she decided that was what she was going to do with her haircut...
Isn't the "NEW" Vivian adorable?
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
Oh-Oh, almost forgot: Tomorrow, Valentines Day 2011 is 4 years since the day we took Vivian to the hospital to remove her trach!!! Happy trach-a-versary baby girl!!
Anyways, back to today - So, I wanted to be sure she REALLY wanted it cut. Today was the day... She really did want it cut, so off we went to Lil' Snippers here in Vancouver. She was excited, and when we arrived and Levi saw the shop, so was he! Lil' Snippers is so much like the shop in Ohio that we had their first haircuts done at, and so much fun for the kids!
Vivian before:
Isn't the "NEW" Vivian adorable?
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.12.2011
Weekend Blog Hop!!
Lucas' Journey with SPD has a great blog hop going on - check it out! Lots of other blog hops on her site too!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
The dinosaur keeps biting my pants!
Levi has night terrors, which basically means that my little guy talks, screams and wakes at night, all without REALLY waking up. I hear the funniest things when this happens (on the night when it's not blood-curdling screams)
Tonight, about 1:30AM he told me that we needed to get back into the classroom. So, I said, okay, we're back in, it's ok. And he calmed (while I scratched his back). These night terror times are usually accompanied by leg pains, or intense itching on his part)
Then, at about 2:15, he was down stairs, he started to cry out, then asked me to itch his hip because "The dinosaur keeps biting my pants!"
SPD, night waking, intermittent screaming and all, I love my little snuggler - But would someone please tell the dinosaurs to bite someone else's pants? This momma need some sleep!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
Tonight, about 1:30AM he told me that we needed to get back into the classroom. So, I said, okay, we're back in, it's ok. And he calmed (while I scratched his back). These night terror times are usually accompanied by leg pains, or intense itching on his part)
Then, at about 2:15, he was down stairs, he started to cry out, then asked me to itch his hip because "The dinosaur keeps biting my pants!"
SPD, night waking, intermittent screaming and all, I love my little snuggler - But would someone please tell the dinosaurs to bite someone else's pants? This momma need some sleep!
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.08.2011
you said atleast one page of homework a day, and I did ONE!
Imagine this:
You spend a day in a loud classroom. Every loud breather, every sniffle, every rustle of a coat in earshot, every voice, everything assaults your senses. You're not like most others. Your brain lacks the ability to compartmentalize each sound. You're unable to 'block out' the sounds that you don't need.
He handles it. He does well, but it is tiring. He is alerted, or excited by each noise. But he is a seeker, so looks for things that alert his senses at times. Not that that is best for him. He also craves things that calm him; swinging, rocking, scratching and chewing. These activities help him calm and able to concentrate.
Imagine your shirts are your chewing companion. You have tools, these things called "chewys" that you can take with you wherever you go. But a well-meaning teacher tells you one day to take that thing out of your mouth.
He wants to please people. He wants to do right. He cries to me; asks me why he is always in trouble. My heart breaks. He wants to be good. But it's so hard. So hard to stop touching things, stop chewing things, stop letting things distract him... To fight against these urges.
His fight with Sensory Processing Disorder is ongoing. So our story continues. His story continues.
He is a good kid, even if sometimes he feels like he is always in trouble. He is the light of my life.
To be continued...
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
You spend a day in a loud classroom. Every loud breather, every sniffle, every rustle of a coat in earshot, every voice, everything assaults your senses. You're not like most others. Your brain lacks the ability to compartmentalize each sound. You're unable to 'block out' the sounds that you don't need.
He handles it. He does well, but it is tiring. He is alerted, or excited by each noise. But he is a seeker, so looks for things that alert his senses at times. Not that that is best for him. He also craves things that calm him; swinging, rocking, scratching and chewing. These activities help him calm and able to concentrate.
Imagine your shirts are your chewing companion. You have tools, these things called "chewys" that you can take with you wherever you go. But a well-meaning teacher tells you one day to take that thing out of your mouth.
He wants to please people. He wants to do right. He cries to me; asks me why he is always in trouble. My heart breaks. He wants to be good. But it's so hard. So hard to stop touching things, stop chewing things, stop letting things distract him... To fight against these urges.
His fight with Sensory Processing Disorder is ongoing. So our story continues. His story continues.
He is a good kid, even if sometimes he feels like he is always in trouble. He is the light of my life.
To be continued...
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.07.2011
I WON! I WON! I WON!!!
i'm at lunch today, and usually I don't take time out for lunch during work. But today I'm working at a yard other than my regular, and I decide I want to go get some lunch...
So, as I'm finishing my lunch, sitting in my van, I pick up my phone and check my emails...
And I see one from Zigo... I won a Zigo Leader X2!!! A bike with a forward seated stroller that will hold Levi and Vivian!!!
I first saw this bike last year, and I fell in love... As I was talking to matt about it today he reminds me that I had spent about a hour trying to figure out how I was going to afford 1500.00 for a new bike. That's not easy to come by, but this is PERFECT!! I have thought about this daily, I have told people at work about it, everyone that would listen...
So when I see the email from Zigo, I think "this has GOT to be a joke..." Nope - I really won!!! I am beside myself with excitement!!!
Go check out Zigo - if you're lucky enough to have a retailer near you... But they sell them on their Website too... And hey - if you don't have a retailer near you, let your local bike shop know that you want a ZIGO!!
Stay tuned - I'll post videos and a review after we get it!!
Ohhhhhhh!! I am so excited, I cannot believe we won this!!
*photos from Zigo Website*
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
So, as I'm finishing my lunch, sitting in my van, I pick up my phone and check my emails...
And I see one from Zigo... I won a Zigo Leader X2!!! A bike with a forward seated stroller that will hold Levi and Vivian!!!
I first saw this bike last year, and I fell in love... As I was talking to matt about it today he reminds me that I had spent about a hour trying to figure out how I was going to afford 1500.00 for a new bike. That's not easy to come by, but this is PERFECT!! I have thought about this daily, I have told people at work about it, everyone that would listen...
So when I see the email from Zigo, I think "this has GOT to be a joke..." Nope - I really won!!! I am beside myself with excitement!!!
Go check out Zigo - if you're lucky enough to have a retailer near you... But they sell them on their Website too... And hey - if you don't have a retailer near you, let your local bike shop know that you want a ZIGO!!
Stay tuned - I'll post videos and a review after we get it!!
Ohhhhhhh!! I am so excited, I cannot believe we won this!!
*photos from Zigo Website*
Erika
© erikalandon 2010
2.02.2011
Tired...
Hope she wakes up in time for the book fair...
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Walking to school...
The silver lining in this cloud is that I get to spend some much needed Mommy time with the little one's and also get some housecleaning done.
I miss out on being able to kiss them bye at the bus stop and be there when they get off the afternoon bus and get the happy-screaming hugs that they offer at that time. I am thankfull that I have a job, and I DO enjoy my job, but I miss these times with the kids. They're growing up so fast!!
Today Levi wanted to walk to school. His first time ever. And, true to form, Vivian wanted to do the opposite: ride the bus. So I kissed her at the bus stop, left her with Daddy and headed off to walk with Levi. It's cold. Like 28 degrees outside. (please let my newly budding plants live through this)But my little dude and I walked to school. His hand even got cold enough that he gave in and held my hand in my warm pocket for a few minutes :) We met his friend Gunner outside his house and the boys walked (well ran) towards the school yard...
I watched as they (a LOT of loud kids) waited outside the doors to their wing until time to go into their classrooms. I got to see how Levi deals with the noise attacking his sensory being. He did well, I can see the coping mechanisms that are not-so-obvious to any other bystander; unless, that is, they are also raising a sensory kid, I guess. He did great. He has made some great friends this year with boys in their grade, and even asked this morning if he could play at Gunner's house after school. The bell rang, Levi was chosen to help hold the doors open and they filed in the hallway. I knew I shouldn't leave until Vivian arrived on her bus, or she'd never let me hear the end of it...
So I waited.
and waited...
and waaaaaaaited...
Bus 250 apparently had a malfunction. It arrived after the last bell. Off the bus bounces my Vivian. Happy as ever to see me, as if she hadn't seen me just a short time before when I walked away from the bus stop. I got my Vivian hug, and off she trotted towards the land of first graders, my utterly independant girl (when she wants to be).
I'm enjoying my extra time with the kids this week, happy to insert into "their world" a little more than I am able to on a weekly basis.
Only thing that could have made the walk to school this morning better would have been for me to be walking all my little one's to school, trying to hold three hands... Strange how the smallest of things trigger the longing for Little Eric once again.
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