What's the 23 month old up to? Update on Addison Mae.

As Addison is approaching two I feel like everything is changing. And maybe more so because I'm also anticipating having two children. She is becoming more able to do things on her on, which is awesome. Put her shoes on- no problem the girl loves shoes, go get up in her chair to eat- easy, throw the trash away- she loves tasks. She is becoming a wonderful helper. She even loves to vacuum with the handheld.

Addison is the sweetest girl. I know I've said this before. She can be a hellion, don't get me wrong. But there are plenty of times throughout the day she will just look at me and kiss me smack on the lips multiple times in a row, and then hug me and say 'awww mommy'. Or she will come up and squeeze my leg, and kiss me. If I'm holding her before bed and she's nearly falling asleep on my shoulder she will look up at me, plant a sweet kiss, and lay her head back down. I'm surprised I don't melt into a puddle on the floor each time. I love those moments. They make it ALL worth it.

Her language skills continue to amaze me. She doesn't talk a whole lot around others or in public because she's shy- for awhile. But at home she strives to learn, and talks constantly. She will talk in a string of full sentences from the second she opens her eyes. And the girl loves her books, glued to them. She goes to sleep reading them, and grabs them (in her crib) as soon as she wakes. If she doesn't know what something is she will ask, then repeat the word until she says it correctly if she didn't the first time. She's a sponge, and I'm so so happy about that.

She loves:
Fruits- strawberries, peaches, apples, blueberries are hit or miss
Veges- Broccoli, green beans, peas
Cheese, Yogurt, Applesauce, Milk! Milk MILK!

Dislikes:
Probably everything a kid should love- quesadillas, pizza, chicken nuggets



potty training. 

We have a potty, and potty seats in every room. She will sit on them, get toilet paper, wipe, and flush. She will announce when mommy and daddy are going potty. And she tells me when she's gone in her diaper, often saying she needs a 'diapy change'. I think I've been trying to get a 'feel' for the type of potty trainer she may be the last few months. We've read books about it, watched DVD's, and I talk to her about it all the time. But I don't have a routine, or method I want to use yet.  Honestly, I may be the relaxed type that would let her wait until she's ready. However, a baby is coming. I really need to start something soon! I do not wish for two kids in diapers (at least not 24/7). She's a truly smart girl. I know she can do it. I think I'm just the one that's not ready to put in the work :/ I lead a busy go, go life. I don't get to stay home with her. And I'm in and out at other times for sessions. Any advice?

The other big ticket item- Transitioning to toddler bed? 

I was 'thinking' about transitioning right after two. (September). I read that it's best to do a few months BEFORE baby or a few months AFTER. This is still majorly up in the air. And may not happen until after baby arrives. But I'm kind of nervous to have an infant and try to transition her into a toddler bed at the same time. I figure if I start it sooner than later she has time to adjust before baby. That being said, the girl is finally sleeping through the night (most nights). I finally have some relief. WHY would I ever want to mess up a good thing!? She's not climbing out yet, nor has she tried. But then again, what if she decides to try climbing out a week before baby is due? Transitioning her then would be a nightmare. See my dilemma?! I know this has to be common for families expecting number two! So what's your thoughts?

Playroom!

Well this one I didn't have to actually think about. I knew I had to. Our dining room was filled with my photography props for newborns. I thought I wanted to keep the studio in there. But I have been using our front room and like the lighting in there better. So over the weekend we organized! The front closet is now my prop closet (minus a few hanging coats). Shoe rack moved to garage. Bye bye clutter! The dining room, right off the kitchen, is being converted to a playroom. We laid down large foam mats to cover the hardwood. There will be a reading section and a TV/dvd combo hung on the wall. Also great news, it's easy to close off with gates (perfect for when baby is at that 9 month stage). Even better news, we will have some living room space back. I have needed this organization! It already feels good.



I'm excited to throw her 2nd birthday party. The 'theme' is My Little Pony. It started with her love for horses. I wanted to make it cute and girly though :) She's never watched the show once. There will be two ponies there and that's all that will matter to her!

When I think about her actually turning two, it blows.my.mind. I thought one year flew by.... this is just insane. My tiny little baby is so big and growing so fast. I feel like pinching myself!

Lengthy post, and still not everything I could say about this child. She is all sorts of awesome, amazing, and challenging. Love her to pieces! (I'm doubting anyone actually read all this!!)