Things I Thought I Never

I've never had obedient easy children from birth.  All of our kiddos have come out with strong personalities and boldness in their ideas and opinions.  The first two were fairly challenging in stages.  Times arose where we wondered if we were fighting the good fight or just fighting a losing battle.  However, we stayed the course and within months of working to change behaviors, we were able to see the fruits of our labors with our older kids.

We really patted ourselves on the backs.   

Look at our amazing parenting skills.  We've got this thing figured out.  Wow!  We've really molded these kids into strong leaders.  I should pass on our life lessons to the other parents who are struggling with strong-willed kids.

Ha!  So naive! We were doing so well.  Mastered the temper tantrums, shaped their wills, and then BAM!  Chubby Cheekers came along. From birth he was our spirited little guy.  His funnies are funny, but his challenges are challenging.  Like 'put me in a straight jacket and take me to the looney bin' challenging.

Over his 3.5 years, we have learned the power of ultra consistency.  The power of standing our ground even when it's not popular.  The power in recognizing his unique gifts even though they can be embarrassing (he is an entertainer at heart).

Exhibit A:

We've also learned the power of letting things go! He may embarrass me more times than I would like, but his behavior is more related to the heart of a boy who likes mischief and not a true heart issue of malice, ill-will, disobedience, or disrespect.

Don't get me wrong!  We deal with a LOT of heart issues.  We take 1 step forward and 3 steps back on heart issues.  In this on-going struggle, we've learned that progress is progress.  Not to focus on the times we feel like we're losing ground, but the wins we have together.  We've learned to celebrate his fun-loving craziness.  Look less on what others see in our family and look more towards what we can do to turn out a responsible, fun-loving, compassionate leader.

Enough of the parenting lessons we've learned over time, and time to celebrate Chubby Cheekers.  I'd like to call this tribute, 'Things I NEVER Thought I Would Need To Say'.

• If you want to go to gymnastics you'll need to put on underwear.  Nobody wants to see your berries while stretching and flipping.
• We don't lick people.  They aren't lollipops.  
• Growling is only okay when playing zoo, not when answering adults.
• Put your pants on!  Underwear is optional.  Pants are not.
• You can't wear your sister's swimsuit.  Yours is in the bathtub from last night.
• You can't pee in the front yard. Only in the back.

These are just a few that have happened as of late.  Now I'm wishing I would have kept a book.  He's quite the character that offers a lot of daily laughs.

Potty Training....UGH!

I'm sure some of you have read my fool proof way of potty training.  Worked like a charm for my friends and for Little Miss.  I find it super duper effective...if you are not lazy.  My problem this time around with #3, I'M LAZY!!!

In fact, potty training was this thing I knew needed to be done, but not one ounce of me wanted to do it.  I loathe the whole process.  Changing wet undies, dumping poop in the potty, cleaning it out of undies, the laundry, the following around.  I just couldn't bring myself to do it.

Until my mom steps in and buys Chubby Cheekers some new undies (Smooth, Mom.  Real smooth!).  Undies that he wants to wear, like, ALL. THE. TIME.  Can someone put me in a straight jacket now?

I'm sure you've recognized that Chubby Cheekers has always been our kid who moves to the beat of a different drum.  It would only be fitting if I shared with you his journey of potty training.  It's been very different.

First off, he takes the doggie approach to peeing.  If he has to go, he goes to the backyard, finds a spot on the grass and lets it flow.  This wouldn't be totally unacceptable except he doesn't pull down the undies.  Just stands there and pees in them.  Then waddles himself back inside to let me know how awesome he did going pee-pee.

Yeah,  that has happened multiple times.

Secondly, he insists that entire family comes with him to the bathroom (when he actually goes to IN the bathroom).  Once he does his business, he asks you to clap.  When he gets his undies back on, he asks your for high fives.  When you give him a high five, he gives you the biggest hug.  It's an all out celebration.

And lastly, he now wants to celebrate everyone else who goes potty.  I have received so many claps, high fives, and hugs for going pee-pee myself.  More than the average Torres in this household thanks to pregnancy.  Really, I'm just giving you fair warning.  If you come over, a certain 2 year old will celebrate you too.

Fortunately, I still have my sanity after 3 days of this 'training' business.  If I would just crack down and do the Potty Training in a Week method, then this would probably get over a lot sooner.  Unfortunately, laziness is still my #1 stumbling block.  Poor Torres #4.  She may wear diapers her entire life by the time I get to training her.  Aye, aye, aye.

And without being too revealing, here's my spirited boy in his cutie patootie undies...

 

I have to admit, his little biscuits look adorable in his undies.  Like totally pinchable!

Chubby Cheekers Turns 2

 

 This little guy has rocked our world.  The little guy we never knew we needed.  He's spunky and fun and feisty and driven and passionate and goofy and brilliant. He's our icing on the cake...triple layer of icing at that.  

 It's really amazing to think about you being so little.  Time flies by.  You've always been the one to do things early.  You never went through the 'hang on the blanket' stage.  You've always been moving and grooving.  Makes me wonder what amazing feats in life you will tackle.  You've already tackled so many.

Life without you would be less of everything.  Less enjoyable, less busy, less laughter, less cleaning up, less craziness, but I wouldn't change any part of it.  You were born to be an entertaining leader.  Someone who sticks to his guns, is passionate, with a flare of funny.  You're my kind of guy.

Chubby Cheekers, even though your mother is wishing you a Happy Birthday 3 weeks late, it is no indication of our love for you.  You are the spice to our life.  Without you we would laugh a little less and have a super clean house.  And guess what???  Clean houses are overrated, but laughter is not.  

We love you, Chubby Cheekers.

Chubby Cheekers~23 Month Edition

Hellllo Ladies,

I'm a toddler on the move these days and I ain't got time for pics.  It's been a long while since you've heard from me.  I've become even more daring and a little ornerier since our last chit chat.  I'm thinking one of these days my handsome good looks are not going to cut it any longer.  Buuuuuut, since I'm a Torres you have to realize that we don't stop until we say it's time.  I haven't said it's time yet, so my antics will continue {insert the raising of my sticky fist}!  Muahahahaha....

One of my newest favorite things is cuddling up with the parental units for a good book.  I get me some Boobie (blanket), my thumb, and settle in on Mommy's lap for a good Sandra Boyton book.  HEY!  WAKE UP! has to be my favorite.  One cannot hear that story enough.

With the new year, I hear a lot of talk about goals from Mommy, Daddy, Little Man, and Little Miss.  Daddy wants to run a marathon and qualify for the Boston Marathon.  Mommy wants to run a half-marathon in under 2 hours. Little Man wants to run an entire 5k, and Little Miss wants to run a Fun Run (1 mile).  And here I am, not even two yet, thinking, "I just wanna suck my thumb."  

 

I don't want to show anyone up.  Plus, I have years to blow my siblings out of the water!

Another one of my latest obsessions is acting like a dog.  You know you were a born leader when you can get your sister and cousins in on doggie behavior.

Yep, born leader!  Next week I think I'll lead the way for Meerkat behavior...

Love,

Chubby Cheekers

Get Your Serve On

Man those holidays sure flew by us.  We had an amazing Christmas.  Baking and spending time with family always keeps us feeling full.  Each year the kids look forward to the traditions.  Packing boxes for Operation Christmas Child, making sugar cookies, the annual Gingerbread Houses, going to Christmas Train, attending Celebrate Christmas at our awesome church, and just hanging out with our loved ones.  Just in case you're visual I've got some classic Torres photos for ya!

{You ask for 'cheese' and this is what you get around here} 

{A little gingerbread house making a lotta of double fisting candy to mouths}

 {Good 'ol family photo with Santa.  Apparently, Chubby Cheekers was naughty this year)

 {Christmas Dinner with best friends cousins}

 

{Table for two for the babes doing what they do best...weird stuff}

 

{Chubby Cheekers learned very quickly you can't drink Santa's milk}

As you can see we had fun.  We also spent more time looking for opportunities to serve throughout November and December.   That really prompted some thinking of what I want our 2014 to look like. 

Honestly, it's really sad that 90% of our kind gestures are focused around Thanksgiving and Christmas. We give and help when we see needs, but lately I'm seeing a pattern of helping when the need is in front of our faces instead of being intentional about serving.

Not 2014.  It's going to be the year of INTENTION.  Each month we are going to be focused on one serving opportunity, and I hate to say it but we're starting off a little small.  Our UPS guy and postal lady were killing themselves over the holiday season.  So for the month of January, we are going to spoil the service workers in our community.  Little care packages set out just for them.   Nothing difficult, but a good way for the kids to see how little acts can really bless someone.  I have lots of friends who are joining us on this challenge, so feel free to follow along with us.  As many people we can bless the better.  Offering more opportunities to shine His light.  

If you were in search of Menu Monday, I am so sorry!  I spent a good part of last week putting together a 4 week meal plan and shopping list.  It was enough to make me want to run from menus for a couple of weeks!

Chubby Cheekers: 22 Months Edition

Well Ladies,  it looks like I've been gone a little too long.  Don't think I don't notice those longing glances when I'm out and about.  I know you miss me, but I'm a guy on the go.  It's hard to tie me down.  I think Men at Work said it best in their song...

 Ain't nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody's gonna slow me down
Oh no, I've got to keep on moving
Ain't nothing gonna break my stride
I'm running and I won't touch ground
Oh no, I've got to keep on moving

Yes, that's totally me.  

About a month ago, Mommy got a real good dose of reality when she tried to hold me down during our family photo shoot.  I wasn't digging it like everyone else.  I mean, really?  Who do they think they are?  Models or somethin'?

 

I think this may backfire on me, though.  Mommy has been plastering this pic everywhere.  She always says something like...Blah, blah, blah...what a true indication of my life...blah, blah, blah...he will live to regret this one.

I'm not really sure what all that means, but Bubby says I should be afraid.

I have news for Mommy.  I'm not afraid.  At least for now.  I have too many other tasks to tackle.  Like climbing on the counters (which is a favorite past time), and finding the silverware drawer.  I'll show her.  I'm a professional at one upping that lady!

 

If you are curious about what I'm holding, you'll have to remain that way.  I, in no way, enjoy incriminating myself.  I go for the sweet and innocent look and then work the angle of my high vocabulary.  When I'm busted, I use the "I wuv you, Mommy.  I sorry," angle.  It sometimes works for me.

Since the last time I wrote to you all I have really been perfecting the art of stalling; especially at nap and bed time.  When Mommy or Daddy say, "It's time for bed,"  I usually go for one of two lines:

1. I watch moo-eee wit 'cho Mama. (I watch movie with you, Mama)

2.  I watch foo-ball wit 'cho Daddy. (I watch football with you, Daddy)

Mommy caught on to what I was doing a whole lot faster than Daddy.  Then Mommy told Daddy what I was doing.  For someone who tells Bubby and Sissy not to tattle, she sure tattles on me.  A. LOT.  I still love her though.  She makes me giggle and gives me the best cuddles.  She gets my funny jokes and makes the best snackies.  Life here at the ranch is pretty sweet.

See you beautiful ladies next time!

Love,

Chubby Cheekers

Seize the Day

Chubby Cheekers. Ah man.  That boy had my heart.  So much of him is a 3 year old trapped in a 1.5 year olds body.  He is sweet and spirited and funny and can throw temper tantrums like nobody's business.  He is our icing on the cake.  He's our party in a box.  He's our snuggle bug.  He's our jokester.  He's so much all the time.

Most days I'm exhausted from chasing him around.  He figures things out so quickly.  I try to stay a few steps ahead of him, but most days I'm sprinting behind.  I can't imagine our family without our little Chubby Cheekers.  Especially on beautiful sunny days.  Beautiful sunny days in the 70's.  Beautiful sunny days in the 70's when you're getting your diaper changed in the cool breeze.  Beautiful sunny days in the 70's when you're getting your diaper changed in the cool breeze, and you realize for one split second you can zip away from mom. 

Then you're home free...

 

Free to run and jump and play and let it all hang out.  

It took me a good 15 minutes of running around the trampoline to finally wrestle this guy down and strap on a clean diaper.  I tell you...this guy keeps me on my toes.  All. The. Time.

Chubby Cheekers~19 Months

Hello out there!  It's me.  Stealing the computer again to update you on my life.

I would like to officially announce that Mommy needs a new computer.  I have heard her talk about firing up the 2006 Dell computer, and now I get why she laughs about it.  This computer is so slow.  I almost fell asleep waiting for my page to load.  That woman needs to bite the bullet and get a new computer.  However, one thing I've learned about her is she doesn't get new until the old no longer works.  So I'm asking you people, please pray for the computer to bite the bullet so I can be more efficient with my time.  I'm a busy baby.

I know you all didn't come to hear about a 7 year old laptop.  You came to read about ME!

My latest antics have recently included, but not limited to, writing on all surfaces with permanent marker.  I am most successful with the wood floors and my body.  If you see me in public, it's okay to admire my handiwork.  I can manage quite the masterpiece in a short amount of time.  All I need is a good 30 seconds to locate the marker hiding spot, get the lid off, and go to town creating works of art.  Of course, no one appreciates my work now.  I'm telling you.  I'm the next big thing...that's if Mommy leaves my work in tact.  She recently discovered that toothpaste will rid permanent marker off any hard surface.  Well guess what?  That crazy woman needs to invest in a LOT of toothpaste because I don't plan on stopping anytime soon.

Other than artwork, I am perfecting my language skills.  I speak in sentences and refer to family and friends by name.  Mommy says I'm too smart for my own good, Daddy thinks I'm a genius, and Little Man and Little Miss like to say new funny words that I gladly repeat.  My favorite new phrase is, "You fawted, Daddy!"  I can also say, "Booty Bonk!" pretty well too.  It's a game Little Man taught me. Basically, we turn around and hit each other with our booties.  First one to fall down loses.  It's the most awesome game ever! We live super classy over here.  Don't be jealous!

Now I'm not about to sign off without giving you a current picture.  I must warn you.  My hair is getting really long, but when you have locks like mine, your mom won't cut your hair.  At this rate, I will have a mullet until I am old enough to make my own decisions.  So see my first 'do' in about 20 years :)

On a side note, don't you think I have the most beautiful sis?  When I get bigger I'm gonna have to let those older boys know she's not available!  Me, Daddy, my bubs, Chunky Monkey, and Mr. Fluffypants will take care of her.  Boy POWER!\

Love,
Chubby Cheekers

(Torres Tidbiters, I totally know Chubby Cheekers hacks my computer regularly to update you all on his little life.  I also promised to keep you up to date on Arbonne Shake Recipes.  Shake #3 below.)

                                                                 KIWI LIME SHAKE
2 scoops of Arbonne Vanilla Protein Powder + 1 scoop of Arbonne Fiber Boost, Handful of sliced kiwis, Juice of 2 lime wedges (to intensify flavor, add lime zest), 6 -8 ice cubes, ¼ cup coconut milk, Almond milk or Vanilla Rice Dream to desired consistency.

Chubby Cheekers~17 Month Edition

Heeeey,

It's Chubby Cheekers time!  It's hard to believe that next month I'll be the ripe old age of a year and a half.  I've accomplished so much already.  I'm a ladies man, proficient climber, runner, and all around a good guy.  

My newest fascination is Mommy's and Sissy's hair accessories.  I find bows and ties and clips and headbands all so exciting.  Not to mention they really accent my long blond curly cues.  Mommy refuses to cut my hair, but Daddy says it's getting too long.  I prefer the mullet look, but we'll see who wins out.  Daddy mentioned something about being 'Head of the House' and blah, blah, blah, so I think he'll win out.  All I know is I hope there is something left on the back because I love the party going on behind me.  Of course, it will be all business in the front.  

Last week Mommy and Daddy had a stomach bug for a day or two.  Although I felt bad for them being laid out on the floor, I took full advantage of exploring opportunities.  I am so sneaky that I was able to push the bar stools over to the counter, climb up, get into the cabinet above the counter, find the candy jar, and help myself to not one, but two delicious suckers.  Once Mommy and Daddy figured out what was going on, it was too late.  I was already sticky and cute and adorable.  I didn't even get the Mommy Look.  Secretly, I think she was impressed with my determination.

My family has had a lot of fun things planned this summer.  At my church  we got to go to the party out back and Daddy shared with me and my special lady friend his favorite kind of popcorn.  I secretly have a crush on my lady friend, but I'm think she uses that to her advantage.  See if you can figure out what's she's trying to pull...

First, she locks me in with those big beautiful eyes.

Then, she reaches in on MY popcorn maintaining that adorable, but innocent look.  It's okay.  She's still my girl.

Then she does it again.  I see her trying to lock glances, but I'm like, "Oh no, girl! No more for you.  I'll stick with my MOMMY for a main squeeze!"

That was my first date night.  It didn't go so well.  Maybe next time I'll lock glances with her, but keep my snackies at a good distance.  After all she is a cutie pie just like me.

Love,

Chubby Cheekers

Chubby Cheekers~16 Month Edition

Helllllooooo!!!  It's my time to share.  Although I never thought it possible, I have achieved a new level of cuteness coupled with a stronger hit of orneriness.  Ladies, I'm the total package.

Let's start with my increased vocabulary.  I'm starting to toy with the idea of putting words together. I hear Bubby, Sissy, Mommy, and Daddy blah, blah, blah all day long.  All I say is ba-bee (baby), Da-dee (Daddy), Mama, Doe-gee (doggie), Mimi (Grammy), woo-woo (barking noise), num-num (I wanna eat), dink (drink), dow-nnn (down), baf (bath), bae-ball (baseball), and foo-ball (football), and bat-tat-ball (basketball).  I have a lot of words, but it was time to start piecing them together.

Now I can say wan dow-nnn (I want down), hoe you (hold you), pay bat-tat-ball (play basketball), and bouncy, bouncy, weee (means I'm jumping on something I'm not supposed to).

I also learned a new animal noise.  I can quack like a duck.  So now not everything barks. Somethings quack.  Just trying to keep it fresh and change things up a bit.

My latest feats of orneriness include, but not limited to, mastering the barstools until I get on the counter, locating everyone's toothbrushes in the drawers and brushing my teeth with them, playing Bubby's drumset as loud as possible, sneaking food off Mr. Fluffypants tray, and getting on the trampoline outside.  I really am an adverturous baby and I'm trying to convince Mommy to embrace my edginess, not squash it.  She has these mini gasp moments where she sees me trying something new and then she gasps, Ahhhhhh!  She's so crazy.  Somebody get her a valum.

Come to think of it, maybe I'm the reason why she runs.  She has to stay in shape to keep up with me.  Yep, I'm a handful...a cute, wonderful, handful.

Love,

Chubby Cheekers

Chubby Cheekers~15 Month Edition

Well, it's been a little while since I have given you the down low on my latest adventures.  I have been mastering the skills of up.  Since I've mastered walking and running I've been searching for new skills to add to my repertoire.  One thing I have noticed is people like to take things away from me and then stick them in high places.  That's when I set my sights on a new goal. Climbing.  

At first I began with the obvious, the couch.  Once I learned how to pull myself up on the couch there really was no stopping me.  From the couch I can reach the side table where people leave their drinks. Water out of a large open cup is so much better, but I haven't quite figured out how to not pour it all over myself.

The next level of climbing I mastered was the bar stool.  Those things are more like ladders.  I can get just high enough to see what kind of goodies are on the counters, then I "Mmmm, mmmm, mmmm" Mom to pieces until she gets me what I want.

After mastering the bar stools, I moved to the kitchen chairs and table.  This, my friends, is where it's at.  Standing on that table makes me feel like I'm on stage.  Mommy, however, does the mean face and points her finger at me and says, "No, no!"  Well, guess what?  I learned how to say, "No, no!" too.  What can I say? I'm a genius.

Aside from my climbing skills I can say new words.  My favorite one is dog and woo-woo.  Everytime I see an animal I point and say, "Dog.  Woo-woo."  It's my best dog impression.  Mommy keeps saying things like, "No, Papa.  That's a cow.  Mooooo."  She sounds ridiculous.  Someone should tell her.

Daddy also taught me a new word.  Bollas.  Now when you change my diaper, I reach down and grab that thing between my legs and say, "BOLLAS!"  Daddy thinks it's really funny, but Mommy doesn't laugh as hard.  She also mentioned something to Daddy about not teaching me that stuff because I might do it at church.  Guess what?  I already did.  If those people haven't figured out how weird we are by now, surely I just showed them.  Surely!

Well, it's time for me to sign off.  I'll see you all next month!

Love,

Chubby Cheekers

It's Like Mommy Crack

Picture this...

It's 5:28am.  I am in a hoodie smeared with snot on my left shoulder (only I don't realize it's on there until I get home...classic Amanda Torres), my hair is haphazardly thrown into a ponytail, and loose hairs are pulled back with a a head band.  I am a hot mess running down my street trying to make 5:30am F.I.T. Boot Camp at Erica's.  

I make it just in time, and I have a bit of time to talk to friends while we're warming up.  One girl that I absolutely love says, "You know those Fizz Sticks?  They are like Mommy Crack!"  I died laughing.  I had never thought of my Fizz Sticks as Mommy Crack, but she was right.  IT IS!!!  

 

I've never been a person to struggle with consuming the recommended amount of daily water intake (half your body weight).  I honestly thought about not ordering fizz sticks, I'd just stick with my normal water routine, when beginning the detox, but it was recommended.  I thought, "If I'm going to do this, I'm going to do it right."  And holy hairballs!  I'm glad I got those suckers.  I look forward to mine everyday at 2:30, a time in my day when I hit a wall.  

Fizz Sticks are little packets (kinda like Crystal Light) you add to your water, and guess what?  It fizzes as it goes in.  What I love about the Fizz Sticks is of course the au natural qualities.  They contain B vitamins which are often depleted in times of stress (let's be real...I'm a mom...I have many stressful moments!), and they help support my metabolism, healthy skin, hair, and nervous system.  Even though my skin is looking more vibrant, that's not why it's Mommy Crack.  Those little boogers give me alertness and enhance my cognitive performance.  I seriously need alertness.  I have a 14 month old who thinks he can do the same tasks as his 4 year old sister and 6 year old brother.  Just today he was trying to climb in my neighbors water feature.  Yeah, those Fizz Sticks will always be my Mommy Crack as long as Chubby Cheekers is around.

So Fizz Sticks, this pic is for you.  Life is so much easier with you guys.  I love you.

                               

Signed,

Fizz Sticks Make Me Smile

 

The Babes

You remember this gem of a photo?

Chubby Cheekers: 6 months

Mr. Fluffypants: 4 months

I love it. My all time favorite photo of the babes.  Something I will cherish when they are old and grown and having children of their own.  A pic I will pull out at random moments to reminisce and to show girlfriends, friends, family, everyone, and anyone who will look and listen.

It kinda blows my mind when I think about Chubby Cheekers and Mr. Fluffypants being 4 or 5.  They really don't know too much of life without one another and it's becoming very apparent how much they mean to each other.

Every morning, despite the front door always being unlocked for him, Chunkey Monkey rings the doorbell.  When Chubby Cheekers hears the doorbell, he takes off running for the front door, bypasses Chunkey Monkey and looks for Mr. Fluffypants.  As soon as he sees him, Chubby Cheekers lets out a big squeal and Mr. Fluffypants smiles a gigantic smile.  It is the most precious thing I have ever witnessed.

They do the same thing after naps.  Look for each other and then squeal once they lock baby glances.  Here they are at 12 and 14 months and they already have a bond.  Almost like twins, but better.  A special kind of cousin bond, and I get to see it unfold everyday.  I'd call myself blessed for having the opportunity to witness a relationship so special.

Those two little guys may have me pulling out my hair on somedays, but I would not trade this time for anything.  All the craziness, all the snot, all the poop, all the feedings, it's all worth it.

Chubby Cheekers~13 Month Edition

Lucky.  That's me.  I'm a lucky kind of guy.  I have the best big brother and big sister.  Not everybody gets a welcoming committee each morning when they wake up.  First thing in the morning, I get the Milk Twins.  The whole time I can hear my bro and sis sitting right outside my door until Mommy gives the okay for them to come in to see me.  They burst through my door and I squeal.  I really like those two.  They make me feel like a baby king.

I have done so much growing up this month.  I can now say 'Da-dee' (Daddy), 'Hi', 'Ba' (ball), 'Dow' (down), 'MmmMmm' (I'm hungry/thirsty), and 'Boo-bee' (boobie).  I'm also pointing at things that I would like to have.  Top of my pointing list, Easter candy and Mommy's water bottle.  I love those things.  

Mommy says I'm quite the handful.  What can I say?  I'm curious.  I like to climb...and run...and dance...and get into everything.  I like to play rough.  My new favorite game is punching my brother in the face when I'm in my car seat.  I've even learned to say, "BAM!" when I do it. Everybody thinks it's funny.  Well, everyone except my brother.  He doesn't laugh anymore after I hit him in the face with my toy dinosaur.  Apparently the spikes on the Stegosaurus hurt.

One last update on my little life, I got to take my first big road trip to the beach.  The car part wasn't my favorite.  I'm still not 100% in love with my car seat, but I did like playing with Little Man and Little Miss in the car.  They like to make me laugh.

Once we got to the beach I was in heaven.  My absolute favorite part was sucking my thumb, sticking it down in the sand, and then sucking it again.  It was so sandy, and salty, and yummy.  I really don't get why it was frowned upon.  Sometimes mommies and daddies are just big 'ol fun killers!

Anyhoo, I think it's very important for you to see how cute I am.  It's been awhile since you've seen a pic of me and I thought it was time for my brother and cousin to make an appearance.  They are some cool dudes.  Fast forward 15 years, and I think we could really pick up some babes!

Yep, that's me.  Doing my best linebacker stance while sucking my thumb.  I am a boy of many talents.

Love, 

Chubby Cheekers

Chubby Cheekers~One Year Edition

Sometimes a man gets a little busy doing...stuff...so, you know, I had to take a little baby blogging break.  I must tell you of my latest antics because they are pretty good.  

I've been struggling with conveying what I want to Mommy.  I have all these great ideas in my head, but Mommy doesn't really get it.  Like when I tried to climb in sister's baby doll stroller.  She got me out.  She didn't get that babies go in strollers.  I had to let her know I was NOT okay with the whole 'getting me down thing' so I did what any genius baby would do.  I threw myself on the floor.  

My technique has really improved over the last few weeks.  At first I tried the Throw Your Head Back technique.  That worked great on the carpet, but the wood floors and tile hurt.  I knew a change had to come or I would really hurt my noggin. After much contemplation I decided to utilize the belly flop.  It was somewhat effective, but it was missing the dramatic flair I was searching for.  Then I found it.  The knee drop with my head thrown back, ending in a belly flop is the way to go.  It prevents injury on my part, but really sticks it to Mommy.

I have also been working on strengthening my big toes.  Did you know those guys can hook on higher surfaces and hoist you up on things?  Never underestimate the power of a strong toe.

I first figured this out in Mommy's bathtub.  She has this little seat thing.  I put my chubby little leg as high as it could go, but it wasn't cutting it.  However, my big fat toe could reach the ledge of the seat. I hooked it on quick and hoisted myself up.  As I stood there all proud of myself, Mommy gave me the mean face, said, "No, no," and got me down.  Party pooper.

The next day, I found something she would let me climb on.  Check me out...

I am one big stud muffin, but if you want a piece of me you'll have to get in line.  Mommy has my heart, meany face and all.  I love her and those Milk Twins!

Love, 

Chubby Cheekers

It Happened

We just finished Chubby Cheekers First Birthday Party.  My wee little baby's birthday has come and gone. His party was a small family gathering with his favorite people..his brother, sister, and cousins.  He loves those guys.  He had a smash cake (which he wouldn't touch), and our family had milk and cookies.  Nothing fancy and 100% wonky homemade.

Unfortunately, he also had his one year check-up.  Shots on the same day as his rescheduled party=Mom Fail.  Poor guy was a little fussy.  He loved having Happy Birthday sung to him, but was NOT interested in his cake.  After an hour of all the attention on him, he was done.

Poor baby!  I'm pretty sure we have the same picture of Little Man at his first party.  He wasn't the party animal either.  Come to think of it, we have a picture of Little Miss crying at her first party too.  Geez!  What's with the Torres kids not enjoying parties?  

Chubby Cheekers~11 Months Edition

Hey Ladies,

It's the last days of my baby life.  I have to say, I've totally rocked this first year and there's still a full month left.  That means I have a lot of time to get into more mischief around the house.  That is my area of expertise...mischief.

Since my last writings, I've learned to walk.  Even though crawling is my first mode of transportation, I would consider myself a proficient walker.  If I'm holding something, I'm an even better walker.  Just last night I was carrying around the step stool in the bathroom.  I'd like to think of it as lifting weights while walking, but Mommy just calls it 'Danger'.  She's so crazy.

For those of you wondering about my eating habits, they are great.  I still prefer fine milk via the Milk Twins, but I'll eat pretty much anything.  My favorite foods to chew are the ones called Daddy's Plate.  Stuff that comes from there is so yummy.  That Mommy, she can really cook up some good stuff.  If Daddy's Plate is unavailable, I will scarf down my baby food.  You know that stuff that goes in the blender.  It's not like I really need it pureed though.  I have seven teeth.  Trust me.  Those guys are sharp.

Speaking of teeth, I'd like to share with you my all time funniest jokes.  It cracks me up every single time.  First you find someone just sitting around not paying attention to you.  Then you crawl up and bite them.  When they say, "OWWWW!" you do a big 'ol belly laugh.  It is so funny. Finally, when they are paying attention you open your mouth real wide to show them all your ferocious teeth and pretend to bite them.  Your innocent victim will flinch every time.  That's funny too.  

Aside from my pranks, I have also found a new activity that I love.  It's called pull the dishes out of the dishwasher and walk off with them.  I can hear that dishwasher open a mile away.  I'm not quite sure why Mommy groans each time she opens that thing.  That's like a little party in a hidey-hole.  So many trinkets just laying around and water to splash in.  It's also super fun to step onto, because then I can reach the counter and guess what???  The counter has even better stuff up there.  If Mommy thinks I'm ornery now, she's got another thing coming.  Get ready Mommy!!!

Well, I'd better get my rest.  I have to save up my energy because I'll definitely be spending some tomorrow.  Tomorrow is the day I think I'll empty out the Tupperware drawer.  Oh wait, I do that everyday.  Another favorite past time.

Love,
Chubby Cheekers

Chubby Cheekers~Party Animal Edition

Chubby Cheekers is by far the most demonstrative baby we've had thus far.  What am I talking about 'thus far'?  We ain't havin' no more babies.  He's it.  The craziest Torres baby.  I have two videos to prove it to you.

First up, the dance party animal.  Every time Elmo comes out, he gets jiggy wit' it.  Real jiggy.  I have concerns.

Next up is Chubby Cheekers: Rap Star. Please excuse the older kids riding their horses through the house.  I wish I had captured his entire solo, but by the time I got to where he was, he was finishing up and watching his older siblings.  However, you can see him standing all by his big boy self and he definitely knows what to do with a mic.  At 10 months old.  Do I have my hands full or what???

Chubby Cheekers...One Sick Dude

So last Friday I had to take Chubby Cheekers to the doctor.  He had a snotty nose and a pretty wet cough since Christmas, but when a small fever popped up I called the nurse line.  They wanted to see him.

While sitting in the waiting area I couldn't believe we were there.  He was crawling around and chatting it up with everyone in the waiting room.  The nurse calls us back and he's just waving and smiling.  We get to the room and she takes his temperature.  It was 101.3. Okay, so it was up a bit more. Maybe we did need to be here.

The Nurse Practioner walks in and checks his lungs first.  Super clear.  Then she tries to get a good look in his ears.  Welp, apparently homeboy has an issue with ear wax in his left ear because she had to remove a chunk about the size of Connecticut before she see.  I was thoroughly grossed out.  She said possible start to an ear infection.  Great, let's get some antibiotics and get out of here.

Just as I thought we had solved the problem, she tells me she wants to run a flu, strep, and RSV test.  What the what?  Why in the world do we need to do that???  So there we are holding down a baby who doesn't appear to be sick so she can get a good sample of snot, and a wonderful swab of the throat.  I was so impressed with Chubby Cheekers.  He didn't even cry.  Such a man of steel.  In fact, the nurse practioner made a comment about how laid back he was. Psh!  I knew he was putting on the ultimate show. Little Stinker.

We sat there for a good 20 minutes and little by little the results rolled in.  RSV...positive.  Flu...positive.  Strep...positive.  I am not lying.  I felt like the dirtiest mom alive.  Seriously.  How does a 10 month old get all that?  So we walked out with a antibiotic script and Tamiflu script, both of which taste like butt and cause diarrhea (antibiotic) and nausea (Tamiflu).  Perfect.  Just what we need.

Fast forward a week, and Chubby Cheekers is still behaving normally.  He's done with the Tamiflu and half of his antibiotic, and I'm still wondering if there were false positives.  I can't imagine a baby as young as him being diagnosed with so much and only running a 101.3 fever for half of a day, then BAM!  No more fever.  Eating fine, sleeping fine, playing fine. So weird, right?

So medical professional, enlighten me please.  Do you think the tests were accurate?  Did we just catch it early?  Do I have a super baby?  Is there such thing as false positives?  I'm a bit curious.

On a totally unrelated note, Chubby Cheekers has been toying with the idea of walking.  I would love for him to be up and about now.  I'm tired of his hands being all over the floor.

Chubby Cheekers~10 Month Edition

In about 4 days I'm going to be 10 months old.  Double digits, Ladies.  Double digits.  Life has been good for me.  I recently attended my first Thanksgiving.  It was wonderful.  Wonderful despite the massive diarrhea I picked up while traveling.  

However, I don't want to share about my nasties.  I just want to share about all of my latest achievements.  First off, I peed on the potty for the first time.  Yes, I'm 10 months old and peed on the potty.  Mommy had stripped my down before bath and I crawled myself right over to the potty and peed on it.  So I didn't actually pee IN it.  Just on it.  Mommy wasn't so excited about my achievement.  Sometimes I feel she doesn't get me.  I thought it was super funny.  I bet Daddy would have congratulated me.

I've also been toiling with the idea of walking.  For a few weeks now I've been building my balance skills by letting go of furniture, and last night I took my first step.  Just one.  It was a little overrated. I mean, I'm a master crawler and my booty looks so cute when I get going really fast.  It just shakes back and forth.  Sometimes, just sometimes, when I'm in a really good mood, I shake my head in conjunction with my booty and that is the cutest.  No need to be modest.  It just is and I know it.

Besides achieving greatness I have to admit I get myself into some sticky situations.  I just get a little curious at times and I don't yet have all the reasoning skills to decide if it's dangerous or not.  So here I am just crawling through barstools and my head gets stuck, or my booty doesn't make it all the way through.  It's really rough at times, but you know what?  I'm the kind of guy that lives on the edge.  Just look what happened when I tried to push Sissy's baby stroller around...

It may be a crazy life, but it's the life I lead.

Love,

Chubby Cheekers