Orally fixated

I know all kids Gus's age go through a phase of putting things in their mouths, but I've never seen a child quite like Gus. Keeping a vigilant eye and preventing those chubby little mitts from inserting junk into that cute mouth of his is a full-time job.

Foolishly, I had pictured the idyllic summer I would spend with the boys enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. I would be able to lead Ben and Paul in fun and enriching activities while Gus sat closeby and amused himself quietly. Of course, as soon as summer began my little fantasy went the way of my idea of what being a stay-at-home mom would be like (unlimited reserves of patience, leading in the kids in fun craft projects - I lose it almost daily and stink at crafts). What I had not imagined was that Gus would be walking already and that I would have to spend much of my time chasing him and trying to wrench contraband from his hands. Pebbles, grass, sand, mulch, you name it, he's tried to consume it. It's pretty sad when to get a respite I set him in the sandbox with the thought that him eating a small handful of sand or two isn't as bad as the possibility of him swallowing a stone. What really scares me is knowing how many outdoor plants and flowers are poisonous.

Inside is easier but not by much. One of Gus's many talents is the ability to quickly locate the smallest item in a room and stuff it into his gob. Certainly it doesn't help that he has older brothers who have toys with small pieces. But that I can manage fairly well. The biggest inside battle is paper. He can rip it up and get in his mouth in record time. Many times a day I catch sight of his little jaws masticating and it is time again to go on a fishing expedition to remove bits of paper and other junk.

The only thing that gets me through is his naptime and the fact that this too shall pass - someday. During my little breaks, I rest up and prepare again for mouth watch.