One of my very talented friends took our family photo for us recently and I'm quite pleased on how they turned out! They soooo captured the essence of each child's personality and will be enjoyed for years to come.
I have to confess, I'm so fighting being a Grinch every Christmas and even more so this year. There is so much stress and unnecessary hoopla to fuss about; and of course all the consumerist poo everywhere you go. We had already decided to only buy toys used from Craig's List to not only save money, but for environmental and safety concerns on Chinese made products. But I could not find anything this year even though I began my search back in October! Last Sunday I just gave up and made a quick trip to Wal-Mart and bought them each one gift. So, I feel guilty for caving in on a decision, and guilty for only buying them one thing! I know they will get tons from the rest of the family and don't mind only one gift so this guilt is quite silly and useless. Ella loves the light, the excitement, and giving gifts to her friends which I enjoy so much! I'm also quite smitten with the Orthodox calendar and the way it brings such MEANINGFUL celebration to the season. We are very excited about the Christmas Eve service. I just need to turn an eye from the adds and focus on the truth. I think I also need more sleep and maybe another cup of coffee! :)
Matt and I are gearing up to wean Titus during Christmas break! Ugh! Wyatt weaned himself during the teething trial mentioned previously. He bit me during a nursing session and I reacted by swatting him (without thinking- my instinctual reaction was to bat off the piranha). He is such a sensitive fellow that he took it quite personal and did not want to try nursing again! I have a good friend who is a La Leche leader and said that it is quite common for children to go on a nursing strike for similar reasons. I attempted repeatedly to get him to nurse again (so that I could wean him properly- irony that my hubby enjoyed) but he would have none of it! He sleeps through the night just fine and in his crib.
Titus on the other hand is my little co-sleeper and all night grazer. I wanted to meet his need for closeness and mommy contact as long as possible but I think we are at in impasse! For whatever reason during the night once or twice a week he has this need to beat me up! Last night he tried to put a pillow on my head. I would take it from him and toss it to the other end of the bed but he would always retrieve it in order to put it over my head! Other times, he'll pull my hair, etc. I know you're thinking I need to call an exorcist, but I assure you he is normally quite sweet! Aggressive, but sweet. Anyway, for the sake of sanity, we need to wean.
Also, if you get a chance, you must see this documentary:
http://www.iousathemovie.com/
