Spring!

The kids have been developing so quickly these days that I feel sorry I haven't been posting more frequently. I also think about how intended this blog to include more reflection on what it's like to be both a physician and a mom, but all I (barely) have time to do is post photos of the kids. So, perhaps this blog really is reflective of how busy it is to be a Doctor Mom!

I've had a lot of physician-themed posts in mind, particularly with residency graduation approaching. These include my thoughts on anesthesia, reflections on training, and my decision to take employment Way Far Away from all the family we love. But perhaps another time...

For now I give you: Elsa at 10mo and Sam 3.5yrs:

Elsa is moving well now. Crawling, sitting, clapping, and reaching for everything. She likes to say "Ah!" to get our attention or "Ahh-dahh" when she's talking to herself (sounds a little like "all-done"). We moved her into Sam's room for sleeping at night and now they are both sleeping well, through the night together. Hallelujah! Elsa continues to be on the quiet side, but remains easy-going and happy. She loves watching Sam and laughs quite a bit when watching him. She enjoys the swing at the park and watching crows and airplanes. She's got 4 teeth on top and two more coming as well as 3 on the bottom.

Sam continues to be sweet, talkative, and active. He volunteers affection to Elsa and is very conscientious about plans and people:

Sam: "OK Mom, you can go bathe Elsa while Dad plays with me."

He is often discussing his "options" or "plans" and is discovering how to negotiate. 

Me: After you dress yourself, you can have a bite of the chocolate easter bunny.

Sam: Actually, how about I eat the bunny first, then get dressed?

He's at Montessori for full days now (9a-3p) and has stopped talking afternoon naps. I was worried about that transition, but now I find that he falls asleep better at night without the daytime nap. At school, he's been enjoying the map puzzles, artwork, and the "practical life" area (washing, polishing, folding). They had a visit from a marine biologist and he told us a lot about "Mike the Whale."

Sam works well within our structured day and we've really appreciated the "1-2-3 Magic" approach to discipline. He gets the occasional time-out, but more often, we don't have to take it that far. He loves anything to do with competition and moving quickly, so it's a great motivator:

Me: Sam, I bet you can't get your jammies on by the time I return from hanging up your towel!

Sam: Ok, Mom. I'm gonna go really fast and beat you!

Could it be that easy? For now, at least, it often is...

Watching the kids interact together is perhaps the greatest joy in the family right now. Sam is so sweet and concerned about Elsa. She is so intrigued and amused by him. They make a great pair.

And it makes my heart just melt.