Adjusting To The New Routine

Well, I suppose it's safe to say that things are back to "normal" at the Kochersperger household. Mommy is back to work and BJ is on a new schedule. I do believe however that BJ is doing better than mommy is! I'm so exhausted and after being back for only 4 days, I have come down with a terrible sore throat and head cold. I have had so many students out sick with countless illnesses, that I didn't even want to try and fight it, I just got on some antibiotics right away. I feel much better, but now I am concerned about BJ. YIKES!! The poor little guy! Who knows what I'll be bringing home to him! On a good note, my kindergarten students are great! They are such a nice group of children and gave me such a warm reception. It makes coming back to work a whole lot easier!

BJ is doing well at grandma's and grandpa's house for the day! He's loving all the attention he gets and grandma and papa Joe enjoy taking him around town. They said that he doesn't go to very many people like he used to and they have noticed he's become a little more clingy. We've noticed the same thing. When I left for work the first day, he didn't seem to care much at all. I got a kiss and that was that. However, the next day or two he began to realize that I was gone all day and has become quite upset upon my leaving. Part of me is thinking "Yes! He loves me and actually cares when I go!" The other part of me thinks "I don't want to leave him! He needs me!" The emotions are crazy! BJ has also become very clingy when I arrive back home in the afternoon. He cuddles and coos, crabs my legs (and doesn't let go), and constantly wants me in sight. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE when he wants me to hold him, but I am beginning to get concerned. The intensity of his separation anxiety is building with each day that I am gone. I'm hoping the weekend will help ease his mind and confusion. Any ideas?

On another note, BJ is learning more everyday! His eating skills are so much better, not spitting out as much food as before. He still doesn't prefer milk (or Pediasure), but will down a whole container of yogurt in minutes! He is walking more and more everyday and we are waiting for the day when he starts, running around the house! He has also picked up a very impressive skill! At least I think it is! BJ does not like food stuck to his fingers. He is a very clean eater. So we have been trying to show him how to wipe his fingers on a napkin rather than getting upset and waving his hands around in the air. So last night, while he was eating, he got a clump of food on his hands. I held up a napkin and he took it. He not only cleaned off his fingers, but then wiped his face with it! We were so impressed that we clapped and cheered for him. He of course loved it and 10 napkins later he finally stopped cleaning his fingers and face! What a riot! I told James that we need to be careful because this little guy copies EVERYTHING we do!

He has also taken a huge interest in books and especially loves non-fiction with the "real" pictures in them. His favorite is "Goodnight Baby!" He giggles and points especially to the ones he thinks he knows like his friend Caroline! He is trying to talk and can put the syllables in place, but still not much that is recognizable. The teacher in me is trying not to push, but the poor little guy is having the colors and alphabet recited to him on an hourly basis! However, I suppose he doesn't mind! He just thinks I'm being goofy and laughs at me!

Well that's about it for now! We will post some more pictures soon! He is changing everyday and has finally started to gain some weight! He is at 18.6 pounds and gaining! Our goal is to graduate from size 12 months to 18 months by spring. Oh well, he sure is cute being so tiny! As long as he's healthy! Thanks for your prayers and support! BJ has come such a long way in a short time! God has truly blessed us!