As the month winds to a close, I'll actually be a little relieved to start posting about topics other than family. It can be hard coming up with a "personal" topic every day. No worries, though - I'm sure I'll continue to tuck in a "Wordless Wednesday" or two to share pictures!
So how are we ending this month (and coincidentally, my maternity leave)? With a trip!
We've lived in the area nearly 4 years and haven't ventured into South Carolina... until now!
As this posts, we're in Myrtle Beach - enjoying some sand and surf!
I always enjoy getting that "first" trip out of the way with the new baby. I'm relieved that I still have the ability (financially and otherwise) to do some travel, even though it will have to slow down (and most travel will likely be work related).
Our "big" trip for the year will be Atlanta - and most of our trips will be driving. Luckily, with Grandma Kathy in town, we did a mini-trip to Winston Salem (two hours in the car) and the kids were great!
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Daycare
Speaking of daycare... (It was mentioned in yesterday's post)... as the month is quickly winding down, the "preparing" for daycare is slowly becoming a reality.
As any mother - I have mixed emotions. Mainly, though, the anxiety is starting to set in.
The other day, I warned DH that he might have to be the one to take the baby to daycare on the first day (even though I'm technically not back at work until day 3).
Why mixed emotions? I like going back to work. I dislike pumping. I like the fact that the family will all be on (back to?) a "normal" routine. In some ways, though, I dislike being away from kiddos all day. I like getting back "into the loop" with all my coworkers and friends at work. I dislike the expense.
I do like our daycare. I'm glad we've been there long enough that I know most of the teachers (although, since we've been there, they've hired over 8 new people across the 3 rooms for 0, 1, and 2 year olds!)
Baby G will be the 8th infant in her room, and her teachers will be Miss "A" and Miss Vicky. Her color will be dark purple (ironically, the same color as Kiddo when he was an infant!) I had to stop in and see the "new" setup- a dresser for clothes, and new cribs. It's also amazing how much you forget about having an infant... and what to bring for her on the first day. I don't have a "first day of daycare" outfit for her, either. Hopefully that doesn't somehow make me a bad mom.
As any mother - I have mixed emotions. Mainly, though, the anxiety is starting to set in.
The other day, I warned DH that he might have to be the one to take the baby to daycare on the first day (even though I'm technically not back at work until day 3).
Why mixed emotions? I like going back to work. I dislike pumping. I like the fact that the family will all be on (back to?) a "normal" routine. In some ways, though, I dislike being away from kiddos all day. I like getting back "into the loop" with all my coworkers and friends at work. I dislike the expense.
I do like our daycare. I'm glad we've been there long enough that I know most of the teachers (although, since we've been there, they've hired over 8 new people across the 3 rooms for 0, 1, and 2 year olds!)
Baby G will be the 8th infant in her room, and her teachers will be Miss "A" and Miss Vicky. Her color will be dark purple (ironically, the same color as Kiddo when he was an infant!) I had to stop in and see the "new" setup- a dresser for clothes, and new cribs. It's also amazing how much you forget about having an infant... and what to bring for her on the first day. I don't have a "first day of daycare" outfit for her, either. Hopefully that doesn't somehow make me a bad mom.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Baby will have a playmate... or two...
I don't know what it is about being pregnant... for me, both times, my awareness of other pregnant women became super heightened!
Although most of the kids we know who were born around the time of Kiddo were out of town (Quinn, Noah, and Neil come to mind.. to name a few!) - with Baby G, I actually know babies in town!
Before Baby G, the assistant director of daycare had a baby girl! Even better... starting next week, they will be in the same "infant" classroom! Her first daycare teachers will be Miss "A" and Miss Vicky.
A coworker had a baby girl, and a few coworkers have had grand babies recently!
Some of our best friends in the area just had a baby boy (3/15 officially)...
So Baby G will have plenty of playmates as she gets older - and for her, she will have friends we know from daycare, but also friends in the area that we did not meet through daycare!
Although most of the kids we know who were born around the time of Kiddo were out of town (Quinn, Noah, and Neil come to mind.. to name a few!) - with Baby G, I actually know babies in town!
Before Baby G, the assistant director of daycare had a baby girl! Even better... starting next week, they will be in the same "infant" classroom! Her first daycare teachers will be Miss "A" and Miss Vicky.
A coworker had a baby girl, and a few coworkers have had grand babies recently!
Some of our best friends in the area just had a baby boy (3/15 officially)...
So Baby G will have plenty of playmates as she gets older - and for her, she will have friends we know from daycare, but also friends in the area that we did not meet through daycare!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Sleeping
Baby Girl is starting to sleep nearly 8 hours per night... Momma is relieved!
Maybe momma will be rested (at night) when she goes back to work!
However... last night was date night, and this morning is an early trip to take Grandma to the airport. Thank goodness that today is also a daycare day!
Maybe momma will be rested (at night) when she goes back to work!
However... last night was date night, and this morning is an early trip to take Grandma to the airport. Thank goodness that today is also a daycare day!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Play Time!
While I've been out of work, we've been taking advantage of as many playdates as possible! Without them, I am certain, I would go crazy!
It's interesting.. Kiddo will ask - by name - for whomever he's last played with. He's a very social kid.
Even daycare has noted that he is considerably less "whiny" since he's been back (after the baby). Based on Grandma's visit, though, I'm not so sure that whining won't be back (with vengeance!) when he returns to daycare full time!
Although physically, he definitely had a growth "sprout" when we had the baby (which may have been more about Mommy and Daddy's perspective than an actual sprout), we've had to take this question and answer and add it to nearly everyday's conversation: "What does whining get you? NOTHING!"
We've played with neighbors and friends and everyone and anyone! We've been on walks, to parks, and had a couple of picnics. Our adventures are necessary events in order to fill Kiddo (and Momma's) need to get out of the house.... as a side benefit, it's been fun and has taken us to places in the area that we don't get to regularly visit!
Only a short time left for these weekday adventures to continue... but we still have weekends!!
It's interesting.. Kiddo will ask - by name - for whomever he's last played with. He's a very social kid.
Even daycare has noted that he is considerably less "whiny" since he's been back (after the baby). Based on Grandma's visit, though, I'm not so sure that whining won't be back (with vengeance!) when he returns to daycare full time!
Although physically, he definitely had a growth "sprout" when we had the baby (which may have been more about Mommy and Daddy's perspective than an actual sprout), we've had to take this question and answer and add it to nearly everyday's conversation: "What does whining get you? NOTHING!"
We've played with neighbors and friends and everyone and anyone! We've been on walks, to parks, and had a couple of picnics. Our adventures are necessary events in order to fill Kiddo (and Momma's) need to get out of the house.... as a side benefit, it's been fun and has taken us to places in the area that we don't get to regularly visit!
Only a short time left for these weekday adventures to continue... but we still have weekends!!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Another visitor!
Grandma Kathy has come to visit!
She calls North Carolina her "little slice of heaven" - typically, while she is here, she gets waited on, taken on "adventures" (like this one, to the Park to watch the ducks - - as well as Biltmore in Asheville, and Winston Salem, and to a tea tasting), and catered to and spoiled as much as we possibly can. We are enjoying her visit!
She calls North Carolina her "little slice of heaven" - typically, while she is here, she gets waited on, taken on "adventures" (like this one, to the Park to watch the ducks - - as well as Biltmore in Asheville, and Winston Salem, and to a tea tasting), and catered to and spoiled as much as we possibly can. We are enjoying her visit!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Baby Stroller
We got a double stroller.
Kiddo still loves riding in the stroller - most of the time. This is the only way the "family" can go for a "run". Eventually. I've been doing as much walking as possible, but it will be some time before I can work up to running... and the step AFTER that will be running while pushing the double stroller!
On a few occasions - with Kiddo in daycare - I've taken just Baby G in the stroller. I think if Kiddo knew, a war would be raged in our house!
For now, he's accepted that he has to share with Baby G. Either way, it's a couple more years we'll be using a stroller of some kind - particularly with the little one!
Kiddo still loves riding in the stroller - most of the time. This is the only way the "family" can go for a "run". Eventually. I've been doing as much walking as possible, but it will be some time before I can work up to running... and the step AFTER that will be running while pushing the double stroller!
On a few occasions - with Kiddo in daycare - I've taken just Baby G in the stroller. I think if Kiddo knew, a war would be raged in our house!
For now, he's accepted that he has to share with Baby G. Either way, it's a couple more years we'll be using a stroller of some kind - particularly with the little one!
Friday, March 23, 2012
Baby's Build-A-Bear outing/adventure
Somehow, I have a philosophy that everyone in my family needs their own build-a-bear. Just one.
And these aren't bears you play with. These are the kind that you display. I guess it really is just my need to continue the bear collection of my childhood.
The rules are strict.
1) The bear has to be one of the cheap bears in the store.
2) You must get an "appropriate" outfit with it.
3) It's first name must be your middle name.
4) It has to share your birthday.
Baby G and I obtained Claire in a ritual that was surprisingly similar (perhaps identical, with the exception of a different restaurant with daddy?) to when Kiddo and I obtained Jacob.
Start with lunch with daddy. Add in some shopping. Be sure to stop by Nordstrom's "Women's Lounge" for a good nursing session. Walk the mall, with a stop at the Build-A-Bear store for a purchase. Return home exhausted.
So, our current family of bears includes:
Rachelle, Jacob, Cessna, Girl- and our newest addition, Claire. (Notably missing from this list? Andrew. I can't convince DH - yet - that he needs a bear to be a part of our "bear" family!)
It's amazing how you can get so worn out with such a tiny baby. More surprising, still, that you don't drop dead of exhaustion with two under three!
How is it I will be able to maintain any type of cleaning, laundry, and/or dishes schedule once I go back to work? Oy, vey. This momma evidently still has much to learn.
And these aren't bears you play with. These are the kind that you display. I guess it really is just my need to continue the bear collection of my childhood.
The rules are strict.
1) The bear has to be one of the cheap bears in the store.
2) You must get an "appropriate" outfit with it.
3) It's first name must be your middle name.
4) It has to share your birthday.
Baby G and I obtained Claire in a ritual that was surprisingly similar (perhaps identical, with the exception of a different restaurant with daddy?) to when Kiddo and I obtained Jacob.
Start with lunch with daddy. Add in some shopping. Be sure to stop by Nordstrom's "Women's Lounge" for a good nursing session. Walk the mall, with a stop at the Build-A-Bear store for a purchase. Return home exhausted.
So, our current family of bears includes:
Rachelle, Jacob, Cessna, Girl- and our newest addition, Claire. (Notably missing from this list? Andrew. I can't convince DH - yet - that he needs a bear to be a part of our "bear" family!)
How is it I will be able to maintain any type of cleaning, laundry, and/or dishes schedule once I go back to work? Oy, vey. This momma evidently still has much to learn.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Quiet...
"Quiet" time is a big part of my life. With two kids, I wasn't totally sure it would still exist (or at least for a while!)
I have found that it is still possible!
It's truly encouraging that I don't actually have to "escape" the house for "me" time. Once in a while, I do get a chance to read a book. And sometimes.. especially in the evening hours... Kiddo is in bed, DH is reading, and Baby G hasn't woken for her last feeding. That leaves me enjoying a few moments of Peace.
So what do I do with those few moments?
A late night snack, a blog entry, or sitting in a quiet room... I'm overwhelmed and grateful.
What is peaceful to me? A solo walk, perhaps, or a yoga class... neither of which I've actually done... or a little less solitude with a book club meeting, a pedicure, or a tea tasting... These wouldn't fit the lyrics to the song, "These are a few of my favorite things.." (because they don't exactly rhyme..) - But they are probably in the lyrics in my head or my life...
At least 20 minutes a day, when things are quiet, I can feel at peace. Even with both kiddos. And that helps make life awesome.
I have found that it is still possible!
It's truly encouraging that I don't actually have to "escape" the house for "me" time. Once in a while, I do get a chance to read a book. And sometimes.. especially in the evening hours... Kiddo is in bed, DH is reading, and Baby G hasn't woken for her last feeding. That leaves me enjoying a few moments of Peace.
So what do I do with those few moments?
A late night snack, a blog entry, or sitting in a quiet room... I'm overwhelmed and grateful.
What is peaceful to me? A solo walk, perhaps, or a yoga class... neither of which I've actually done... or a little less solitude with a book club meeting, a pedicure, or a tea tasting... These wouldn't fit the lyrics to the song, "These are a few of my favorite things.." (because they don't exactly rhyme..) - But they are probably in the lyrics in my head or my life...
At least 20 minutes a day, when things are quiet, I can feel at peace. Even with both kiddos. And that helps make life awesome.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Baby's Blood....
I never really thought much about blood types. I knew (vaguely) about some problems where baby could have a blood type different from Mom that requires shots (a shot?) while the baby is in-utero.
I didn't realize that one of the risk factors for Jaundice was baby's blood a different type from Mom, though.
I'm O. I'm positive. Really. I'm O positive.
Baby is O negative.
What does this mean?
Baby will be LOVED by the Red Cross. Her blood can be used for - literally - anyone! She's got the "Universal Donor" blood type. What's more, it's a slightly rare type of blood- only 6.g% of the population have that blood type! Me? I'm "normal" when it comes to my blood. I guess that means vampires wouldn't be as interested in little old me.
Here are some quick facts about the United State's distribution of Blood Type (courtesy of wikipedia):
Country Population
307,212,123
O+ 37.4%
A+ 35.7%
B+ 8.5%
AB+ 3.4%
O- 6.6%
A- 6.3%
B- 1.5%
AB- 0.6%
I didn't realize that one of the risk factors for Jaundice was baby's blood a different type from Mom, though.
I'm O. I'm positive. Really. I'm O positive.
Baby is O negative.
What does this mean?
Baby will be LOVED by the Red Cross. Her blood can be used for - literally - anyone! She's got the "Universal Donor" blood type. What's more, it's a slightly rare type of blood- only 6.g% of the population have that blood type! Me? I'm "normal" when it comes to my blood. I guess that means vampires wouldn't be as interested in little old me.
Here are some quick facts about the United State's distribution of Blood Type (courtesy of wikipedia):
Country Population
307,212,123
O+ 37.4%
A+ 35.7%
B+ 8.5%
AB+ 3.4%
O- 6.6%
A- 6.3%
B- 1.5%
AB- 0.6%
Monday, March 19, 2012
More laid back?
I never thought I'd be more laid back (didn't think it was possible!) with a new Baby.
However - with several things - it seems I'm learning to (or that I have to) let things go!
For example... I used (religiously!) a timer with Kiddo. With Baby G, it's my watch or nothing... much simpler! (I even did a review about how the timer was my favorite "baby product"!)
We were also terrible about "cleaning" the belly button (with alcohol). It took several more days for belly button day!
I'm also more inclined to set baby down.... and respond just a little less quickly when she cries.
She also seems way more laid back than Kiddo was. She only seems to cry once in a while... and it's usually followed by pooping, spit up, or feeding - and it is over fairly quickly!
So - even though she isn't quite sleeping through the night- she... or perhaps "we"... are a bit more laid back this time around. I think that's probably true for most "second" babies. Poor things.
Quick update: She's had about 3 nights in a row of sleeping 6 hours - from 8:30 to 2:30 or so, so we are making progress on the sleeping through the night!
However - with several things - it seems I'm learning to (or that I have to) let things go!
For example... I used (religiously!) a timer with Kiddo. With Baby G, it's my watch or nothing... much simpler! (I even did a review about how the timer was my favorite "baby product"!)
We were also terrible about "cleaning" the belly button (with alcohol). It took several more days for belly button day!
I'm also more inclined to set baby down.... and respond just a little less quickly when she cries.
She also seems way more laid back than Kiddo was. She only seems to cry once in a while... and it's usually followed by pooping, spit up, or feeding - and it is over fairly quickly!
So - even though she isn't quite sleeping through the night- she... or perhaps "we"... are a bit more laid back this time around. I think that's probably true for most "second" babies. Poor things.
Quick update: She's had about 3 nights in a row of sleeping 6 hours - from 8:30 to 2:30 or so, so we are making progress on the sleeping through the night!
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Bathtime!
Thankfully, Baby G has taken to her bath much (MUCH!) better than Brother did. It's just been recently that Kiddo has started requesting to take baths! DH and I are still not very good about bathing the kids often (other than hands and faces, which is a constant - as every mother knows, I'm sure! And even with hands and faces, I'm sure we tend to be more laid back than some people..)
Enjoy today's pictures of Bathtime at our house!
Enjoy today's pictures of Bathtime at our house!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Baby and the Car
I guess I've been on a picture KICK lately! Today's picture is a little more disappointing - just baby in her car seat. We (meaning - I) updated the car seat with a "kit". There are a bunch of companies where you get the "item" free (with coupons and/or codes that are widely available and distributed often) and you pay "shipping and handling" - which is a little more than typical shipping and handling - but a relatively cheap option for the various products.
What products do I have in mind?
Seven Slings - I got the Purple sling. Still not sure if I like it - although technically, since I'm up several pounds, it probably isn't exactly the right size. Maybe it will work better once I lose some pounds!
Udder Covers - I have(and used heavily with Kiddo) two of these, and I like them! they stay around your neck, and they have a "window" to baby. They also fold up nicely!
The car seat set/cover comes from Carseat Canopy (or something along those lines).
Overall, fairly good products. DH might not agree - of course, he'd never use the sling or udder cover - but he tends to think the canopy set is somewhat burdensome.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Baby's First Holiday
Although I was hoping.. even planning for a Valentine's Day baby, this girl wanted to be (as her great aunt called her) - Little Miss Fat Tuesday!
We happened to have these beads "around" - they are among Kiddo's favorite toys - and they made the first mommy photo-shoot (where Mom - that's me - pretends like she's a photographer) an adventure!
I started by telling daddy that I was going to have a "non-approved" photo shoot- he isn't terribly fond of naked baby pictures, so I thought he might object to me showing off my newborn's tatas... Turned out this was his favorite picture!
Here are a few more pictures I took at the same time... with the same theme (Mardi Gras) in mind!
We happened to have these beads "around" - they are among Kiddo's favorite toys - and they made the first mommy photo-shoot (where Mom - that's me - pretends like she's a photographer) an adventure!
I started by telling daddy that I was going to have a "non-approved" photo shoot- he isn't terribly fond of naked baby pictures, so I thought he might object to me showing off my newborn's tatas... Turned out this was his favorite picture!
Here are a few more pictures I took at the same time... with the same theme (Mardi Gras) in mind!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Baby Visitors
The first "official" baby visitors - this time - were Grandma and Grandpa Williams!
Grandma is a baby person, and held the baby often! Grandpa played with Kiddo, and held the baby at Grandma's request - more than once!
They are also "go" people - so it was a bit tough to sit at home while they were here, and we did wind up going to a museum. One extra bonus? Grandma likes to take pictures, and never minds when I "steal" a few to post! So.... Wordless Wednesday is a bit easier with Grandma around!
Needless to say... we were all a little sad when they had to return to Texas.
Grandma is a baby person, and held the baby often! Grandpa played with Kiddo, and held the baby at Grandma's request - more than once!
They are also "go" people - so it was a bit tough to sit at home while they were here, and we did wind up going to a museum. One extra bonus? Grandma likes to take pictures, and never minds when I "steal" a few to post! So.... Wordless Wednesday is a bit easier with Grandma around!
Needless to say... we were all a little sad when they had to return to Texas.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Adapting to Mommyhood
Two kids is tougher than I expected.
Many days, it's mostly a mental game (and we already knew I am a little insane..)
I can't get Kiddo a snack while nursing. Or change the channel (easily), or start a craft activity... and very few things capture kiddo's attention for 20 minutes or more (the time it takes to nurse/diaper/etc the baby, most of the time).
The laundry is ridiculous. Kiddo is potty training, and Baby G has taught us about how you can make milk come through your nose and mouth at the same time... which means we dirty laundry at an alarming pace!
Finding time to do even little things (brush my teeth! Take my medicine!) is sometimes hard, when trying to manage yet another schedule - and a demanding one, at that!
Very few days, so far, have I thought, "maybe I can do this." More often, it's a day of what I forgot/neglected for the day - - and most days, it's neglecting something for myself.
Although DH is great with Kiddo, he and Baby G are also still figuring each other out. Most days, they do OK - but Baby still prefers mommy's smell/arms/milk... which, for Mommy, can be a bit intense. Baby still has only had a couple of bottles, also, so that makes it slightly tougher on dad, also.
Perhaps I'll post more on this topic closer to the end of the month - and hopefully, at least some of these things will work themselves out. And some things are beginning to get a bit easier. For example, Baby is sleeping much better at night- and some nights, Daddy doesn't even notice that mommy is getting up! She also will sometimes go up to 4 hours without nursing. Every hour - especially at night- counts!
There are also those moments where I'm showered, and have laundry and dishes started before 10am (and it would have been 9am, if not for daylight savings..)
In the meantime - we're all still Adapting. I am thankful it's a bit longer before I return to work!
Many days, it's mostly a mental game (and we already knew I am a little insane..)
I can't get Kiddo a snack while nursing. Or change the channel (easily), or start a craft activity... and very few things capture kiddo's attention for 20 minutes or more (the time it takes to nurse/diaper/etc the baby, most of the time).
The laundry is ridiculous. Kiddo is potty training, and Baby G has taught us about how you can make milk come through your nose and mouth at the same time... which means we dirty laundry at an alarming pace!
Finding time to do even little things (brush my teeth! Take my medicine!) is sometimes hard, when trying to manage yet another schedule - and a demanding one, at that!
Very few days, so far, have I thought, "maybe I can do this." More often, it's a day of what I forgot/neglected for the day - - and most days, it's neglecting something for myself.
Although DH is great with Kiddo, he and Baby G are also still figuring each other out. Most days, they do OK - but Baby still prefers mommy's smell/arms/milk... which, for Mommy, can be a bit intense. Baby still has only had a couple of bottles, also, so that makes it slightly tougher on dad, also.
Perhaps I'll post more on this topic closer to the end of the month - and hopefully, at least some of these things will work themselves out. And some things are beginning to get a bit easier. For example, Baby is sleeping much better at night- and some nights, Daddy doesn't even notice that mommy is getting up! She also will sometimes go up to 4 hours without nursing. Every hour - especially at night- counts!
There are also those moments where I'm showered, and have laundry and dishes started before 10am (and it would have been 9am, if not for daylight savings..)
In the meantime - we're all still Adapting. I am thankful it's a bit longer before I return to work!
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Baby Announcements
One of the reasons I was deliberately "lax" about posting photos from baby's many mommy photo shoots is because I wasn't sure what I wanted to use for Birth Announcements, and I'd like for those photos to at least be a bit fresh when people receive them!
But, alas, I can't help posting one of my favorite pictures of baby so far - which will also be featured in the announcement, but not in full color. So... enjoy this full-color photo that didn't make it into the announcement in this form!
But, alas, I can't help posting one of my favorite pictures of baby so far - which will also be featured in the announcement, but not in full color. So... enjoy this full-color photo that didn't make it into the announcement in this form!
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Pumping - and Nursing part 2
Shortly after Baby G's arrival, I realized that in order to go back to work at 6 weeks, I'll need a decent supply of milk stored. Enter the pump.
I "dusted off" both a manual pump, as well as the heavy-duty one. And so far- I'm up to nearly two bottles of milk stored up!
The manual pump is nice, because it is gentler. I started by using it. The heavy-duty one is a lot more efficient.
I don't remember pumping as much with Kiddo. However - I recently had a bout of Mastitis (breast infection/inflammation) and I was very thankful that "nursing" was not my only option!
With the Mastitis, I went from sore breast- to chills for a couple of hours - to flat on my back for the remainder of the day in a manner of hours. Thankfully, after one or two doses of the antibiotic (and tylenol and motrin to reduce my fever), I was at least back "on my feet" again - so to speak.
I "dusted off" both a manual pump, as well as the heavy-duty one. And so far- I'm up to nearly two bottles of milk stored up!
The manual pump is nice, because it is gentler. I started by using it. The heavy-duty one is a lot more efficient.
I don't remember pumping as much with Kiddo. However - I recently had a bout of Mastitis (breast infection/inflammation) and I was very thankful that "nursing" was not my only option!
With the Mastitis, I went from sore breast- to chills for a couple of hours - to flat on my back for the remainder of the day in a manner of hours. Thankfully, after one or two doses of the antibiotic (and tylenol and motrin to reduce my fever), I was at least back "on my feet" again - so to speak.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Baby Gifts
We've been overwhelmed with the generosity of family and friends!
Baby has gotten many gifts - mostly clothes (and thankfully, not all PINK clothes - although I am learning to accept pink.)
It's taken me a while to get started on Thank You notes... and that is my project for Kiddo's next daycare day. I hope I haven't lost track of anyone (or anything!) in the process.
The gifts that stand out - for me - are the little homemade things that required skill (in addition to time and thoughtfulness).
Baby G has a homemade quilt. You can even see a blog about it, posted by the quilt-maker, here!
Baby G also has an adorable strawberry-picking hat that will take a while to grow into!
Thankfully, many gift givers opted to go for larger sizes- 6 and 9 month clothes will definitely help cut the need for clothes as she grows into many of the gifts!
Regardless of whether you provided a meal, a gift, or just your prayers and good wishes... Thank you! I may miss someone on the Thank You notes... but we appreciate all the gifts and love, all the same!
Baby has gotten many gifts - mostly clothes (and thankfully, not all PINK clothes - although I am learning to accept pink.)
It's taken me a while to get started on Thank You notes... and that is my project for Kiddo's next daycare day. I hope I haven't lost track of anyone (or anything!) in the process.
The gifts that stand out - for me - are the little homemade things that required skill (in addition to time and thoughtfulness).
Baby G has a homemade quilt. You can even see a blog about it, posted by the quilt-maker, here!
Baby G also has an adorable strawberry-picking hat that will take a while to grow into!
Thankfully, many gift givers opted to go for larger sizes- 6 and 9 month clothes will definitely help cut the need for clothes as she grows into many of the gifts!
Regardless of whether you provided a meal, a gift, or just your prayers and good wishes... Thank you! I may miss someone on the Thank You notes... but we appreciate all the gifts and love, all the same!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Baby Hats
In the last several weeks, I think I've figured out that I'm a hat person. This hat is only one of baby's 15 or so hats! The bizarre detail is that most of them - at least for now - are way too big! I'm glad that baby heads are fairly small, though - I wouldn't wish a big-headed baby on any female!
I love hats. Both Kiddo, and now Baby G, have a healthy share of their own. And most of them are adorable! The pictured hat today was called "pigtails" - but perhaps my most favorite hat (pictured previously, see post about the Swing) - is her "Diva" hat - black with a red flower- which was received as a gift from her Grandparents.
For Kiddo, my favorite is still his "traveling" hat - since he seems to wear it mostly while traveling - his black Fedora.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Diaper Bag
With the "stuff" we took to the birthing center, we had a diaper bag for Baby.
This diaper bag was packed FOREVER! By the time she said, "Hello!" - I had nearly forgotten what was in the bag! With Kiddo, he was dressed for Daddy - or at least that was the intent. For him, we brought UT socks and a UT hat. For Baby G, mommy picked a onesie and a sweater, along with cute ballerina socks! The shoes (size 2) didn't fit, and are being saved for a bit later. The hair band just didn't look quite right, so was put away after only one or two quick pictures.
I am sure there are tons of diaper bag stories I could tell - and that's after only two weeks or so!
The first that comes to mind is that it has a certain symbol of "Freedom" attached to it! Once you can actually pack and bring the diaper bag somewhere, it's like you're no longer home-bound, and you're further along on the road to recovering. So there's something about the diaper bag that holds a mystical quality, almost.
Sometimes, I'm convinced DH has me figured out. He likes less clutter, and "demanded" (in his loving but to-the-point way) that I "choose" between the two diaper bags. The black one, pictured above, and the polk-a-dot one. For some reason, making such a simple decision stressed me out! I told him I'd have to think about it. In the end, I decided on the polk-a-dot bag (which was $5 bucks at a tourist shop in San Francisco) because it's slightly more versatile. He asked me later, "is there a purpose for both?"- and to me, there is, but only minor - and not worth sticking my neck out for when I know it is something that is bothering him! So - the polkadot diaper bag is packed and ready at will - for both kids!
What can you find in our typical diaper bag?
A change of clothes - for Baby G and for Kiddo. Several diapers, a nursing cover, some wipes, a pull-up, a change of clothes for both kids... and at this point, that's about all that is needed. At least with nursing - if mommy is around, bottles aren't included! I've also got a soft sling- but I'm not sure if the sling and I like each other yet.
This diaper bag was packed FOREVER! By the time she said, "Hello!" - I had nearly forgotten what was in the bag! With Kiddo, he was dressed for Daddy - or at least that was the intent. For him, we brought UT socks and a UT hat. For Baby G, mommy picked a onesie and a sweater, along with cute ballerina socks! The shoes (size 2) didn't fit, and are being saved for a bit later. The hair band just didn't look quite right, so was put away after only one or two quick pictures.
I am sure there are tons of diaper bag stories I could tell - and that's after only two weeks or so!
The first that comes to mind is that it has a certain symbol of "Freedom" attached to it! Once you can actually pack and bring the diaper bag somewhere, it's like you're no longer home-bound, and you're further along on the road to recovering. So there's something about the diaper bag that holds a mystical quality, almost.
Sometimes, I'm convinced DH has me figured out. He likes less clutter, and "demanded" (in his loving but to-the-point way) that I "choose" between the two diaper bags. The black one, pictured above, and the polk-a-dot one. For some reason, making such a simple decision stressed me out! I told him I'd have to think about it. In the end, I decided on the polk-a-dot bag (which was $5 bucks at a tourist shop in San Francisco) because it's slightly more versatile. He asked me later, "is there a purpose for both?"- and to me, there is, but only minor - and not worth sticking my neck out for when I know it is something that is bothering him! So - the polkadot diaper bag is packed and ready at will - for both kids!
What can you find in our typical diaper bag?
A change of clothes - for Baby G and for Kiddo. Several diapers, a nursing cover, some wipes, a pull-up, a change of clothes for both kids... and at this point, that's about all that is needed. At least with nursing - if mommy is around, bottles aren't included! I've also got a soft sling- but I'm not sure if the sling and I like each other yet.
Monday, March 5, 2012
New Swing!
Since Baby G is Kiddo 2- we haven't needed to get too much in terms of "stuff." We've had lots of people asking what they could get for her - and lots (most?) of our gifts have been clothes! Baby's great grandmother gave us money, and we decided to use it to buy a swing. We didn't have a swing with Kiddo, but we've found with Baby G that it has been worth the money!
The swing not only does a better job of keeping her out of reach of the dogs, but it also provides Big Brother with ample opportunity to get in trouble! With Kiddo, we primarily used a bouncy seat, which was definitely more at the doggie's nose-level!
The swing not only does a better job of keeping her out of reach of the dogs, but it also provides Big Brother with ample opportunity to get in trouble! With Kiddo, we primarily used a bouncy seat, which was definitely more at the doggie's nose-level!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Nursing
Breastfeeding pretty much sucks. Although in the end- thankfully - I'm not sure it's quite as bad as the being pregnant part!
As with Kiddo, the first couple weeks mean - for me - painful feeding sessions every two hours or so, tender breasts, and nipples that get to be tortured over and over and over again. Kiddo was at least sleeping through the night, more-or-less, by a fairly early age. Baby G has yet to sleep at night! I'm hoping that changes by the time I go back to work.
My first "nursing in public" experience (around 6 days old) was at a museum. I thought I'd have to nurse over lunch - and wound up nursing in the car before going to the museum (so although that was semi-public, I guess I don't count nursing in the car!) I also was in enough pain that Baby G's first visitors (grandparents) were not treated to my usual "modesty" - but had to see more of my chest than I would have preferred. (Some times, you gotta do what you gotta do..)
It's also begun to strike me that if I leave Baby G full time (all day) for the first time in daycare, that means I need several bottles prepped ahead of time. That means pumping - but more on that in a post later this month, I'm sure!
As with Kiddo, the first couple weeks mean - for me - painful feeding sessions every two hours or so, tender breasts, and nipples that get to be tortured over and over and over again. Kiddo was at least sleeping through the night, more-or-less, by a fairly early age. Baby G has yet to sleep at night! I'm hoping that changes by the time I go back to work.
My first "nursing in public" experience (around 6 days old) was at a museum. I thought I'd have to nurse over lunch - and wound up nursing in the car before going to the museum (so although that was semi-public, I guess I don't count nursing in the car!) I also was in enough pain that Baby G's first visitors (grandparents) were not treated to my usual "modesty" - but had to see more of my chest than I would have preferred. (Some times, you gotta do what you gotta do..)
It's also begun to strike me that if I leave Baby G full time (all day) for the first time in daycare, that means I need several bottles prepped ahead of time. That means pumping - but more on that in a post later this month, I'm sure!
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Birthing Center
For this birth, like the last, we opted to use the North Carolina Birthing Center.
My primary reason for choosing an "out of hospital birth" was because of my issues with panic and anxiety. Anytime I see a medical professional for (almost) any reason, I cry. I cry for sonograms. I even cried at half the appointments with the midwives - while being seen in the "Birthing" room (and not the more typical room with a sterile white paper covered table, stirrups, and no windows). Yes, that includes the appointments where all they did was measure, feel my belly, and take the baby's heart rate. Just the thought of doctor appointments makes me squeamish.
Towards the end, I asked for a list of the midwife "on duty". In this particular practice, there are 6 or so midwives, and you have to "meet" each one prior to delivery. Then, as they say, the baby chooses the midwife. Baby G chose midwife Sarah.
This is interesting because my first two appointments were with Sarah. She asked the only question where I felt like I had to "lie". She asked "Are you OK with being pregnant?" - and I wanted to answer not just "no" but HE.. NO! And instead made up something to make it sound like yes the baby was planned, and yes I can accept pregnancy. But for the nine months that followed (as with the nine months with my first kiddo)- I am definitely NOT okay with being pregnant. I hate the swelling, the sickness, the heartburn. I hate the kicking in the abdomen, the frequent bathroom stops, the constipation. Generally speaking - I can't find anything fun about being pregnant, except the fact that you get a "baby" in the end. And I'm not that big of a baby person... but I am in it for the long haul, and I do look forward to the "kid" part.
Anyhow... There are several aspects of midwifery care that I really appreciate. For example, I was "allowed" (even if discouraged) to give birth standing - and in the bathroom. I felt like I was able to make some of my own choices, and that means a lot to me! I also got to go home fairly soon after the birth. Although I did have to sign a "waiver" (since I didn't even stay the 'mandated' 12 hour period after having tested positive for Strep B) - I was home to begin recovery in a more comfortable place. A nurse visited within the next 24 hours, and for the following two days - I got follow up calls. I scheduled and saw a lactation consultant.
I'm not the best patient - I didn't follow the "SPEND" acronymn of Sleep, Pee, Eat, Nurse, Drink - and within the week, went to a Museum (which may not have been the best idea- but I took it fairly easy!)
I'm still fairly sore - and recovering - and nursing is going to be the death of me - but more on that tomorrow.
My primary reason for choosing an "out of hospital birth" was because of my issues with panic and anxiety. Anytime I see a medical professional for (almost) any reason, I cry. I cry for sonograms. I even cried at half the appointments with the midwives - while being seen in the "Birthing" room (and not the more typical room with a sterile white paper covered table, stirrups, and no windows). Yes, that includes the appointments where all they did was measure, feel my belly, and take the baby's heart rate. Just the thought of doctor appointments makes me squeamish.
Towards the end, I asked for a list of the midwife "on duty". In this particular practice, there are 6 or so midwives, and you have to "meet" each one prior to delivery. Then, as they say, the baby chooses the midwife. Baby G chose midwife Sarah.
This is interesting because my first two appointments were with Sarah. She asked the only question where I felt like I had to "lie". She asked "Are you OK with being pregnant?" - and I wanted to answer not just "no" but HE.. NO! And instead made up something to make it sound like yes the baby was planned, and yes I can accept pregnancy. But for the nine months that followed (as with the nine months with my first kiddo)- I am definitely NOT okay with being pregnant. I hate the swelling, the sickness, the heartburn. I hate the kicking in the abdomen, the frequent bathroom stops, the constipation. Generally speaking - I can't find anything fun about being pregnant, except the fact that you get a "baby" in the end. And I'm not that big of a baby person... but I am in it for the long haul, and I do look forward to the "kid" part.
Anyhow... There are several aspects of midwifery care that I really appreciate. For example, I was "allowed" (even if discouraged) to give birth standing - and in the bathroom. I felt like I was able to make some of my own choices, and that means a lot to me! I also got to go home fairly soon after the birth. Although I did have to sign a "waiver" (since I didn't even stay the 'mandated' 12 hour period after having tested positive for Strep B) - I was home to begin recovery in a more comfortable place. A nurse visited within the next 24 hours, and for the following two days - I got follow up calls. I scheduled and saw a lactation consultant.
I'm not the best patient - I didn't follow the "SPEND" acronymn of Sleep, Pee, Eat, Nurse, Drink - and within the week, went to a Museum (which may not have been the best idea- but I took it fairly easy!)
I'm still fairly sore - and recovering - and nursing is going to be the death of me - but more on that tomorrow.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Big Brother!
For the labor/delivery, we dropped off Kiddo with some friends. They didn't have an easy night, as it was 1am, and it took everyone a while to settle! Once Kiddo woke up in a strange place and had breakfast, Daddy went to pick up Kiddo and bring him back to the Birthing Center where he would meet his sister.
We took video of the entire event, but in truth - it was relatively uneventful. It was, however, the beginning of Kiddo's new "mantra": I want to hold her!
Kiddo asks constantly - several times every day - to hold the baby. He also lifts his shirt so he can "nurse" the baby. When we do let him hold her (only about once a day or so) he is pretty good with her. He has had to learn the word "gentle".
After the birth, it took at least a day before kiddo could get back into his regular activity. He tried mimicking the baby - alternated between mimicking mommy and daddy. We promptly decided that he should have his own baby to dress, hit, diaper, throw, and nurse. She even was the first to test out the new bouncy seat:
Overall - he's been a great big brother! He kisses her head. He lies on his belly with her on the floor. He is definitely starting to be a little jealous- and I'm sure that will only get worse as he learns that she is here to stay, and will one day want to share and play with his toys!
For now, our biggest "conflict" is the stroller. Each time he is by the stroller, he insists that it's his! Luckily, we did get a double stroller - and he seems to be learning that he will be sharing it with baby sister!
We took video of the entire event, but in truth - it was relatively uneventful. It was, however, the beginning of Kiddo's new "mantra": I want to hold her!
Kiddo asks constantly - several times every day - to hold the baby. He also lifts his shirt so he can "nurse" the baby. When we do let him hold her (only about once a day or so) he is pretty good with her. He has had to learn the word "gentle".
After the birth, it took at least a day before kiddo could get back into his regular activity. He tried mimicking the baby - alternated between mimicking mommy and daddy. We promptly decided that he should have his own baby to dress, hit, diaper, throw, and nurse. She even was the first to test out the new bouncy seat:
Overall - he's been a great big brother! He kisses her head. He lies on his belly with her on the floor. He is definitely starting to be a little jealous- and I'm sure that will only get worse as he learns that she is here to stay, and will one day want to share and play with his toys!
For now, our biggest "conflict" is the stroller. Each time he is by the stroller, he insists that it's his! Luckily, we did get a double stroller - and he seems to be learning that he will be sharing it with baby sister!
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