This week the LO is on spring break and yesterday DH and I stayed home with her and got things done as well. I took her in for a flu shot and H1N1 shot and we also met with our estate planning attorney.
I am SO GLAD to finally have all that stuff taken care of. There were lots of things to consider with this planning - who would be the trustee if we both die and the LO is under age, who will be the LO's guardian, stuff about our own health wishes, a lot of issues to tackle. But we're all done now so I'm very happy about that.
I know it would have been better if we had gotten this done before the LO was um.... 7 1/2 months old. But hey better late than never! The attorney we worked with was great and she met with us at our place which is so much more convenient with a baby. I found her on peachhead and she was a great find. This is her website if you are interested.
I am happy about what we did because it will grow with us - it cost a little more in the beginning but it will be a solid plan for our family now and in the future. I am happy to talk offline about the costs if anyone has questions.
So tomorrow is April 1 and that was supposed to be my day to feed the LO 1/2 formula and 1/2 breast milk. However, I have waffled again and I am going to keep up with all breast milk. I feel like I can at least do it for one more month. I did get some formula samples from my pediatrician - Lola's good idea. This is good because I was going to buy a can and it was $16. So I got 3 sample cans in case I still go forward with the plan. But for now, it's just one more month of pumping. I still have my 18 days stored up so for sure I can quit end of July if I can keep it up that long. We'll see. One month at a time.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Gorgeous Weekend
This weekend was wonderful for many reasons. It started out well, I had a lovely lunch with Lola and then the photo shoot at Sears then a family dinner at El Cholo. Then late Friday night / early Saturday morning, our good friends had their baby! We are so excited to meet her - hopefully one day she can be friends with the LO.
The weather this weekend was just incredible. Sunny and beautiful, it inspired us to get out of the house as much as we could. We went on walks and to the beach many times.
On Saturday, we grabbed some food and wine at Whole Foods and ate a picnic dinner on the bluff overlooking the ocean. The LO was enjoying herself in the grass, the wine was delicious and it was just a glorious moment to be alive and to be a family. It was one of those moments where you wish you could just freeze time, when you realize hey - this is what it's all about. Those moments are so energizing and they just pop up when you least expect it. I am grateful.
The weather this weekend was just incredible. Sunny and beautiful, it inspired us to get out of the house as much as we could. We went on walks and to the beach many times.
On Saturday, we grabbed some food and wine at Whole Foods and ate a picnic dinner on the bluff overlooking the ocean. The LO was enjoying herself in the grass, the wine was delicious and it was just a glorious moment to be alive and to be a family. It was one of those moments where you wish you could just freeze time, when you realize hey - this is what it's all about. Those moments are so energizing and they just pop up when you least expect it. I am grateful.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
18 Days
18 freaking days. I counted all my frozen milk this morning and sorted it into bags according to the month it was pumped. I have over 700 ounces and all it will get me is 18 days. I stopped pumping 60 ounces a day some time back in January so I haven't been storing any milk for a while. I'm glad I made that decision because it's much better to pump only 4 times a day and I was tired of getting plugged ducts all the time. But I can't believe how little my supply helps me towards my goal of 1 year of breast milk.
I was feeling tired this morning and also tired of my breasts hurting so much when I wake up. I was trying to hold the LO and it was excruciating when she would push off me as she was playing. Plus I am always waking up wet from leaking during the night. Even though I use nursing pads.
So DH and I started to tinker with the math and talk about what I would need to do to be able to quit pumping sooner. I have also been thinking of switching the LO to formula at night. Lots of my friends say the switch to formula helped their babies sleep better through the night. All the sleep and baby books I read say there is no science to back this up but it seems to happen to everyone. So I am thinking it might be worth a try.
So my new plan is this:
Starting April 1, I will give 1/2 of my milk to the LO each day and store 1/2 in the freezer. I will primarily give her formula before bed and during the night when she wakes. (Hopefully she'll like formula less than breast milk and this will be a little incentive to sleep more instead of wake up but who knows.)
Following this plan, I can start weaning myself from pumping on May 15 and still be able to provide the LO with 20 ounces a day of breast milk until her first birthday. She will be on frozen milk instead of fresh for about 2 1/2 months, so she won't get the same immunity support she's been getting from me. But hopefully since it's the summer months she'll have less chance of getting sick. I also think she's a pretty robust baby as she's only had one cold so far even with all the exposure she's had to other kids. She's never even had a fever. I think a lot of this is from the breast milk immunity but I think a lot of it could also be that she's just hardy like her mom. Yeah! We're tough ladies!
So we'll see how I feel about this plan on April 1. That gives me a week to purchase a few kinds of formula to try out and also to mentally prepare myself for the change. Then I'll be on the home stretch for pumping. Then I think I'll plan a little celebration trip for the family to Santa Barbara for when I've totally weaned. We bought 2 nights at a Santa Barbara hotel at the school's silent auction so we've got to use it anyway.
I think this is a good plan because it gives me a little while to see the LO's reaction to formula and find one that works. If it seems like no big deal I can always wean a little early and if it's a disaster I can always extend pumping. So it's a flexible plan.
Well, we'll see!
I was feeling tired this morning and also tired of my breasts hurting so much when I wake up. I was trying to hold the LO and it was excruciating when she would push off me as she was playing. Plus I am always waking up wet from leaking during the night. Even though I use nursing pads.
So DH and I started to tinker with the math and talk about what I would need to do to be able to quit pumping sooner. I have also been thinking of switching the LO to formula at night. Lots of my friends say the switch to formula helped their babies sleep better through the night. All the sleep and baby books I read say there is no science to back this up but it seems to happen to everyone. So I am thinking it might be worth a try.
So my new plan is this:
Starting April 1, I will give 1/2 of my milk to the LO each day and store 1/2 in the freezer. I will primarily give her formula before bed and during the night when she wakes. (Hopefully she'll like formula less than breast milk and this will be a little incentive to sleep more instead of wake up but who knows.)
Following this plan, I can start weaning myself from pumping on May 15 and still be able to provide the LO with 20 ounces a day of breast milk until her first birthday. She will be on frozen milk instead of fresh for about 2 1/2 months, so she won't get the same immunity support she's been getting from me. But hopefully since it's the summer months she'll have less chance of getting sick. I also think she's a pretty robust baby as she's only had one cold so far even with all the exposure she's had to other kids. She's never even had a fever. I think a lot of this is from the breast milk immunity but I think a lot of it could also be that she's just hardy like her mom. Yeah! We're tough ladies!
So we'll see how I feel about this plan on April 1. That gives me a week to purchase a few kinds of formula to try out and also to mentally prepare myself for the change. Then I'll be on the home stretch for pumping. Then I think I'll plan a little celebration trip for the family to Santa Barbara for when I've totally weaned. We bought 2 nights at a Santa Barbara hotel at the school's silent auction so we've got to use it anyway.
I think this is a good plan because it gives me a little while to see the LO's reaction to formula and find one that works. If it seems like no big deal I can always wean a little early and if it's a disaster I can always extend pumping. So it's a flexible plan.
Well, we'll see!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Another Update from the GP - These Crack Me Up
Thank you so much for taking the time to research about the new nests and fabrics. The nests have been working out great in our environment. Thank you! (I found new mats for them to purchase and am sewing zippered covers for them.)
I want to encourage the both of you to take a look at reflection pages and documentation in the room. There is a nice piece where [LO] is engaged in sensory play. This was [LO]’s first encounter with the sandbox. She would dig in the sand using her hands and pour it onto a piece of paper. Enjoy taking a look and have a wonderful day.
***
I wish they would have attached pictures of the sandbox so I could post them here on the blog! But I'll have to go look when I pick her up today. To funny. I can tell she likes the sandbox as some days she comes home with sand in her hair, ears, diaper. Don't ask me how it gets in her diaper because she's always wearing pants but somehow it gets in there.
This morning the LO was having a tough time, I think because of the teething. It seems to bother her most early in the day. She had woken up pretty early today - 5:45 - and was just generally fussy which isn't like her. Since she had gotten up so early I had some extra time so I bundled her up, popped her in the stroller, and went for a 20 minute walk around the neighborhood. She really enjoyed it and I'm going to try to incorporate that into our mornings more often and actually, the afternoons too. She really likes looking around at everything.
This weekend Lola is coming to stay with us! The LO has spring break at school so Lola and Super Auntie are helping out with her days off. I think the LO is going to have a fantastic week next week.
Oh yeah, one more funny thing. So when I dropped the LO off at school today, the kids who were already there freaked out as usual. Yelling her name, just generally excited. I was talking to one of the teachers and we were laughing about how much the kids love her. I said that maybe it was because she is a baby and it's fun for them. But they said that the kids are really obsessed with her and not the other two babies. Maybe because she was the first, I don't know. Or maybe because she is always pretty happy and rolling around. I'm not sure what it is but the kids just love her. The other day DH picked her up and the kids knew who he was. That's crazy because he's only picked her up like four times. There are pictures of the families up in the classroom so maybe they recognized him from that but man, the kids are definitely very interested in our little girl. She's got some kind of magnetism!
I want to encourage the both of you to take a look at reflection pages and documentation in the room. There is a nice piece where [LO] is engaged in sensory play. This was [LO]’s first encounter with the sandbox. She would dig in the sand using her hands and pour it onto a piece of paper. Enjoy taking a look and have a wonderful day.
***
I wish they would have attached pictures of the sandbox so I could post them here on the blog! But I'll have to go look when I pick her up today. To funny. I can tell she likes the sandbox as some days she comes home with sand in her hair, ears, diaper. Don't ask me how it gets in her diaper because she's always wearing pants but somehow it gets in there.
This morning the LO was having a tough time, I think because of the teething. It seems to bother her most early in the day. She had woken up pretty early today - 5:45 - and was just generally fussy which isn't like her. Since she had gotten up so early I had some extra time so I bundled her up, popped her in the stroller, and went for a 20 minute walk around the neighborhood. She really enjoyed it and I'm going to try to incorporate that into our mornings more often and actually, the afternoons too. She really likes looking around at everything.
This weekend Lola is coming to stay with us! The LO has spring break at school so Lola and Super Auntie are helping out with her days off. I think the LO is going to have a fantastic week next week.
Oh yeah, one more funny thing. So when I dropped the LO off at school today, the kids who were already there freaked out as usual. Yelling her name, just generally excited. I was talking to one of the teachers and we were laughing about how much the kids love her. I said that maybe it was because she is a baby and it's fun for them. But they said that the kids are really obsessed with her and not the other two babies. Maybe because she was the first, I don't know. Or maybe because she is always pretty happy and rolling around. I'm not sure what it is but the kids just love her. The other day DH picked her up and the kids knew who he was. That's crazy because he's only picked her up like four times. There are pictures of the families up in the classroom so maybe they recognized him from that but man, the kids are definitely very interested in our little girl. She's got some kind of magnetism!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Baby Steps for Mama
So yesterday was DH's day to drop off and pick up the LO. I was tossing around the idea that I would hit up the promenade but when the time came I just couldn't do it. It was too much gaping leisure time in my face when I felt that I should be mothering. Too much guilt. A year ago I would never have guessed that I would actually have reservations about strolling around on the promenade by myself. So anyway I knew it would be a failure to just go straight home. I decided to take my new jeans to be hemmed as well as a skirt a (long-legged) friend had passed to me. I will be happy to add these two fun pieces to my spring wardrobe so I know it will be worth it. Plus it was nice to do a chore on the weekday instead of trying to cram it all in during the weekend.
Well that errand didn't take very long and I still had some time to myself. I went home, got the mail and then went up to our place. I told myself I would NOT do any chores in the house. So I got a glass of wine and a string cheese and sat outside on the balcony. I just let my mind wander and soaked up the rest of the late afternoon sun. It was actually really nice!
After a while of sitting on the balcony I started to get worried because the LO was not home yet. I worried that DH might have forgotten he had to pick her up. But there was nothing I could do as he had the car with the car seat. I told myself I could NOT call him to ask. So I turned on the TV to distract myself. Eventually, they came home. I was SO HAPPY to see the LO!! I grabbed her from DH and hugged her and played with her, it was great. The little break of me time was really nice and helpful for me.
After dinner, I cleaned the kitchen while DH gave the LO a bath - this was a big departure from our normal routine. It was nice to switch it up. Then I did her night time bottle and rocked her to sleep. A very nice day.
Tonight DH is traveling for work again so it was very helpful to switch things up a bit yesterday because it's all me tonight. I love taking care of the LO but it's nice sometimes just to do things a little differently - to shake things up.
All you moms out there this post is a reminder to ask for help. It's hard to do especially if you are a very organized do it yourselfer like I am. It's easy to fall into the routine of doing it all yourself and being a martyr but that's not good for your emotional health or your marriage. It's hard work raising a child. Each day is not too hard on its own but when you add them all up it can get a bit tough. So asking for help is important. I thankfully have friends and family who remind me of this. DH is more than happy to pitch in but I just have to remember to ask. I guess this is also good advice for non-moms! Just women in general. I think we tend to put more onto our plates than we need to because we feel it's just easier to do it ourselves the way we want it done. And maybe sometimes it is. But doing it all ourselves ALL THE TIME is not good. A good marriage is about give and take and it's important to remember to take as well even though it's not our first reaction.
Yes, I am a licensed therapist. Ha ha, kidding. This stuff may not seem profound to you and if it doesn't, great! You are better at balancing than I am. But for me, I have to remind myself that I am an individual as well as a mother.
OK - now go out and conquer!
Well that errand didn't take very long and I still had some time to myself. I went home, got the mail and then went up to our place. I told myself I would NOT do any chores in the house. So I got a glass of wine and a string cheese and sat outside on the balcony. I just let my mind wander and soaked up the rest of the late afternoon sun. It was actually really nice!
After a while of sitting on the balcony I started to get worried because the LO was not home yet. I worried that DH might have forgotten he had to pick her up. But there was nothing I could do as he had the car with the car seat. I told myself I could NOT call him to ask. So I turned on the TV to distract myself. Eventually, they came home. I was SO HAPPY to see the LO!! I grabbed her from DH and hugged her and played with her, it was great. The little break of me time was really nice and helpful for me.
After dinner, I cleaned the kitchen while DH gave the LO a bath - this was a big departure from our normal routine. It was nice to switch it up. Then I did her night time bottle and rocked her to sleep. A very nice day.
Tonight DH is traveling for work again so it was very helpful to switch things up a bit yesterday because it's all me tonight. I love taking care of the LO but it's nice sometimes just to do things a little differently - to shake things up.
All you moms out there this post is a reminder to ask for help. It's hard to do especially if you are a very organized do it yourselfer like I am. It's easy to fall into the routine of doing it all yourself and being a martyr but that's not good for your emotional health or your marriage. It's hard work raising a child. Each day is not too hard on its own but when you add them all up it can get a bit tough. So asking for help is important. I thankfully have friends and family who remind me of this. DH is more than happy to pitch in but I just have to remember to ask. I guess this is also good advice for non-moms! Just women in general. I think we tend to put more onto our plates than we need to because we feel it's just easier to do it ourselves the way we want it done. And maybe sometimes it is. But doing it all ourselves ALL THE TIME is not good. A good marriage is about give and take and it's important to remember to take as well even though it's not our first reaction.
Yes, I am a licensed therapist. Ha ha, kidding. This stuff may not seem profound to you and if it doesn't, great! You are better at balancing than I am. But for me, I have to remind myself that I am an individual as well as a mother.
OK - now go out and conquer!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Baby Theme Song
Does your baby have a theme song? My friend posted about singing the Scooby Doo song to her baby and lately I've realized that the little one has a theme song too. It's Inspector Gadget. Ha ha ha. I have to give DH credit for thinking of it, it's so slick. It's a great song for her for some reason, we sing it all the time. It's nice because it's really catchy but has almost no words. We switch it up from
Do do do dodo... Inspector Baby ... Do do do DO DO! Woo woo! Do do do dodo... Inspector Baby... Do do do do do... do DO! Go baby go! Do do do do do do do do do do do... Go baby go! Do do do do do do do do do do do...
We also switch "Bobies Bobies" for Inspector Baby - bobies being her nickname. So fun.
Today DH took the LO to school and is picking her up as well. So I'm going to walk around on the promenade for some me time. I am really looking forward to it. Well, either that or I'm going to take my pants to the dry cleaner. I think I should go to the promenade though. I was able to run to the store before work too and pick up baby food to take to school for her tomorrow and some hairspray. Felt great to be able to quickly run an errand.
DH is going to try and take her to and from school at least once a week. I think this will be really great for me. I'm excited about it. I'll still be home in time for dinner, bath, bedtime, etc. but the little bit of extra time for myself is huge. So we'll see how it goes.
Have a good one!
Do do do dodo... Inspector Baby ... Do do do DO DO! Woo woo! Do do do dodo... Inspector Baby... Do do do do do... do DO! Go baby go! Do do do do do do do do do do do... Go baby go! Do do do do do do do do do do do...
We also switch "Bobies Bobies" for Inspector Baby - bobies being her nickname. So fun.
Today DH took the LO to school and is picking her up as well. So I'm going to walk around on the promenade for some me time. I am really looking forward to it. Well, either that or I'm going to take my pants to the dry cleaner. I think I should go to the promenade though. I was able to run to the store before work too and pick up baby food to take to school for her tomorrow and some hairspray. Felt great to be able to quickly run an errand.
DH is going to try and take her to and from school at least once a week. I think this will be really great for me. I'm excited about it. I'll still be home in time for dinner, bath, bedtime, etc. but the little bit of extra time for myself is huge. So we'll see how it goes.
Have a good one!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
It's a Tooth!
Well, this may explain the LO's strange schedule lately - she's been teething. This morning DH said he felt a tooth in her mouth. I felt too and there is definitely a VERY sharp little tooth that has pushed through. She didn't really have the usual teething signs - I didn't notice excessive drool or a light fever. She is chewing on things a lot but she always does that so it's hard to tell. But I think that's why she's been having trouble napping and getting up at night kind of crazy and fully awake. It must have been hurting her.
It's hard to tell from the picture above but DH and I zoomed in on it on our computer and you can see it. Also it looks like the one next to it is about ready to come through too and maybe another. So wow - teething time.
Today we did make it to the birth class party - here are a few pictures:
We had a great time. Two babies/parents were missing but it was nice to see everyone else. I really enjoy hanging with these people, I feel we all get along so well. It's nice too because the babies are so similar in age.
Also this morning we walked over to mile 26 of the LA Marathon:
Our friend Mike came in 24th place! We got to see him running, it was great.
Congratulations Mike!!
Click here to see an album with more selected pictures from the marathon.
I felt much better today. DH and I agreed we have to get out of the house more on the weekends. This morning we rushed out of the house to try and see the first runners when we saw on TV that they were crossing the 405. Just rushing out of the house forced us to go out without a lot of thought and without both of us getting fully ready. The LO had her PJ's on and I didn't put on makeup. But it was great. We enjoyed watching the runners and walking around town. We even stopped and had some champagne on the promenade before walking home. Very fun. It's nice now that the LO can sit in high chairs at restaurants.
Well, work tomorrow. Another week!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Highs and Lows
Like any day, today had its share of highs and lows. One nice thing was that DH made a really good dinner. So delicious! It wasn't even that bad to clean up after. I am digesting it now, full tummy. He just left to celebrate the birthday of one of our friends. I had originally booked a sitter for tonight but then she had another commitment. So DH is going by himself and that's fine actually, I'm quite tired.
Today I definitely had some lows. Everything started out okay - the LO woke up at a decent time, 6:45 am. I pumped, fed her, did the morning routine and then headed out to Trader Joe's while DH watched her. I had a great shopping session at TJ's. Yeah! It just seems to me that they have the best grocery selection of anyone. I love it there. It's kind of a pain because I have to drive a bit to get to one but it's so worth it. We were totally out of food (last night for dinner I ate bread and cheese) so I bought a ton of stuff. I feel so happy when the fridge and cupboard are stocked! Not to mention the freezer! Ah, food. So great.
So anyway, we were planning to meet the mommy & friends at the park today. But I get home from TJ's at 9:00 and go about our day and the LO doesn't take a nap. She doesn't take a nap at all! 1:00 comes and goes (when we were supposed to meet at the park) and still no nap. I was afraid to take her to the park without a nap thinking she might start crying or something out of tiredness. The thing is, she was fine the whole time. She did take a nap at 2:00, about an hour, but that was her only nap the whole day. This just bums me out and I feel like a bad mom. It was not for lack of trying. I exhausted myself out trying to get her to take a nap. I don't know what it is.
It really seems to me that every other baby has more of a schedule than the LO. Yesterday I was home from work because her school was closed and she took one nap from 10 - 11:30 and then a teeny nap at 4:45 in my arms. That was it. I thought babies were supposed to nap more and nap regularly! So then today a nap at 2:00! It's hard because every day is different. Everyone has great advice for me and there are a ton of books on how to do this better and of course that is just is more upsetting. I feel like I'm doing the best I can. Also I don't want to read a book with a rigid plan and try to do it on the weekends and then during the week she's at daycare and they just do their own thing. I notice that she does have a loose pattern there and I try to follow it on the weekends but it just doesn't work out. The LO refuses to live on something so mundane as a schedule!
Sigh. I just get so upset with myself. I feel like it's my fault that she doesn't have regular naps. But I really try! Today I gave up the one thing I wanted to do to try and help her nap. But when I talked to my mom she said I just should have gone to the meet up at the park and if she got tired there just gone home then. She might have been energized by seeing other kids and people. I guess my mom is right. Tomorrow we have a birth class reunion party and we're just going to go no matter what the nap situation is. I can't help it. I just can't know what she's going to do so it's hard to plan around it.
So also I was just in a really sour mood today. Like crying and everything. Which is so out of character for me. I think I'm worn down. I talked to my mom and I think part of the problem is I have absolutely zero "me time" during the week. Since I have to drop the LO off and pick her up at school, I stopped going to lunch at work so I could compress my work day. So my days are basically - wake up - get myself and the LO ready for the day - take her to school, get to work, work, pick her up, get her ready for bed, eat, get myself ready for bed and for the next day, sleep. In between all that I pump 4x. Today I was bummed because I missed going to the drycleaners to hem my new pants so that means I won't be able to go until next Saturday. Because for me the week is one unmoveable block. I talked to DH about and asked if he could possibly drop off and pick up the LO one day per week. (We only have one car that works for the car seat so the same person has to do drop off and pick up.) He said he would. So one day a week I'm going to try and do something alone and just for me. Like go check out the sale rack at J.CREW or hunt for treasures at Ross. I know, both things I just said are shopping but at this point I just have to start with something easy. Maybe some day I'll work up to something fabulous like exercise or dinner with a friend but right now I'm just looking for quick and close.
One good thing is that my blog book for 2009 arrived! I can't believe how big it is. I can actually say that I wrote a book. It's amazing. I showed it to DH and he said - "you didn't write all this did you?" I guess he thought some of it was filler or something. Not sure what. But yes, I did write it all! It's super cool. I like it because it has lots of pictures with the stories of our lives to go along with it. I'm still going to do photo books of special occasions and each year and things but the blog book is a cool record. I am proud of it.
So anyway. That's life. Ups and downs.
Here are some pictures of a baby in a suitcase. Enjoy!
Today I definitely had some lows. Everything started out okay - the LO woke up at a decent time, 6:45 am. I pumped, fed her, did the morning routine and then headed out to Trader Joe's while DH watched her. I had a great shopping session at TJ's. Yeah! It just seems to me that they have the best grocery selection of anyone. I love it there. It's kind of a pain because I have to drive a bit to get to one but it's so worth it. We were totally out of food (last night for dinner I ate bread and cheese) so I bought a ton of stuff. I feel so happy when the fridge and cupboard are stocked! Not to mention the freezer! Ah, food. So great.
So anyway, we were planning to meet the mommy & friends at the park today. But I get home from TJ's at 9:00 and go about our day and the LO doesn't take a nap. She doesn't take a nap at all! 1:00 comes and goes (when we were supposed to meet at the park) and still no nap. I was afraid to take her to the park without a nap thinking she might start crying or something out of tiredness. The thing is, she was fine the whole time. She did take a nap at 2:00, about an hour, but that was her only nap the whole day. This just bums me out and I feel like a bad mom. It was not for lack of trying. I exhausted myself out trying to get her to take a nap. I don't know what it is.
It really seems to me that every other baby has more of a schedule than the LO. Yesterday I was home from work because her school was closed and she took one nap from 10 - 11:30 and then a teeny nap at 4:45 in my arms. That was it. I thought babies were supposed to nap more and nap regularly! So then today a nap at 2:00! It's hard because every day is different. Everyone has great advice for me and there are a ton of books on how to do this better and of course that is just is more upsetting. I feel like I'm doing the best I can. Also I don't want to read a book with a rigid plan and try to do it on the weekends and then during the week she's at daycare and they just do their own thing. I notice that she does have a loose pattern there and I try to follow it on the weekends but it just doesn't work out. The LO refuses to live on something so mundane as a schedule!
Sigh. I just get so upset with myself. I feel like it's my fault that she doesn't have regular naps. But I really try! Today I gave up the one thing I wanted to do to try and help her nap. But when I talked to my mom she said I just should have gone to the meet up at the park and if she got tired there just gone home then. She might have been energized by seeing other kids and people. I guess my mom is right. Tomorrow we have a birth class reunion party and we're just going to go no matter what the nap situation is. I can't help it. I just can't know what she's going to do so it's hard to plan around it.
So also I was just in a really sour mood today. Like crying and everything. Which is so out of character for me. I think I'm worn down. I talked to my mom and I think part of the problem is I have absolutely zero "me time" during the week. Since I have to drop the LO off and pick her up at school, I stopped going to lunch at work so I could compress my work day. So my days are basically - wake up - get myself and the LO ready for the day - take her to school, get to work, work, pick her up, get her ready for bed, eat, get myself ready for bed and for the next day, sleep. In between all that I pump 4x. Today I was bummed because I missed going to the drycleaners to hem my new pants so that means I won't be able to go until next Saturday. Because for me the week is one unmoveable block. I talked to DH about and asked if he could possibly drop off and pick up the LO one day per week. (We only have one car that works for the car seat so the same person has to do drop off and pick up.) He said he would. So one day a week I'm going to try and do something alone and just for me. Like go check out the sale rack at J.CREW or hunt for treasures at Ross. I know, both things I just said are shopping but at this point I just have to start with something easy. Maybe some day I'll work up to something fabulous like exercise or dinner with a friend but right now I'm just looking for quick and close.
One good thing is that my blog book for 2009 arrived! I can't believe how big it is. I can actually say that I wrote a book. It's amazing. I showed it to DH and he said - "you didn't write all this did you?" I guess he thought some of it was filler or something. Not sure what. But yes, I did write it all! It's super cool. I like it because it has lots of pictures with the stories of our lives to go along with it. I'm still going to do photo books of special occasions and each year and things but the blog book is a cool record. I am proud of it.
So anyway. That's life. Ups and downs.
Here are some pictures of a baby in a suitcase. Enjoy!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
More Top Products
It's been a while since I've listed some of the products that I really like right now. I guess part of that is I haven't been buying too many things compared to when the LO was a newborn. But, there are still a few things that are more useful than others. I have quite a few preggo friends working on their registries right now so here are some items you guys!
This is my guilty pleasure:
It's a guilty pleasure because the book is all about raising a baby the attachment parenting way. So funny that when I was pregnant I thought I would be more nonchalant about the whole parenting thing but then I pretty much turned out to be an AP nut. Feeding on demand, baby wearing, "night time parenting", the whole caboodle. The reason I love reading The Baby Book is that it's even crazier than I am. I feel moderate when I read it and that makes me feel good. Some of the other baby books, like What to Expect the First Year, make me feel like a really lenient, bad mother. What to Expect says they should be sleeping through the night at 6 months - although the AAP defines this more narrowly than I would:
In fact, you’ll be encouraged to know that more than 90 percent of babies sleep through the night (six to eight hours without waking) by three months. Most infants are able to last this long between feedings when they reach 12 or 13 pounds
Also, What to Expect says that by 7 months, a baby should be starting to understand the meaning of "no". This baffles me! I can't even think of when I've had to tell the LO no. She is a baby for crying out loud. All she does is roll around, play with her toys, eat, drink and sleep. What would I be telling her no for?
Oops, anyway, this is supposed to be a post about products so let me get back to it.
The Exersaucer is still a big hit:
I put her in here every morning while I pump and she really enjoys it. I even bought her a new toy (switch-a-roo) to go in it:
Today was her first day with the chewy fish switch-a-roo and she loved it!
Also in the new toy department is this toothbrush:
Although she doesn't have teeth yet, she likes the feel of the bristles to chew on and it will hopefully get her used to brushing her teeth.
This oball rattle is a lot of fun, she can grab it anywhere and likes shaking it:
And she just adores her new baby walker from daddy:
It's by Plan Toys - they have all sorts of nice wood toys for babies. Kind of expensive but really nice looking. Right now she just enjoys standing and holding the handle and also playing with all the blocks. (The little car comes full of blocks.)
She still loves her Sophie teething giraffe (even though she's not teething yet):
But right now she seems to prefer the banana. It's nice to have an assortment though.
These kiddo tags are great for all her daycare stuff:
Even Sharpie markers start to wear off from being constantly run through the dishwasher so these stickers are really nice for her bottles and sunscreen and other daycare stuff. But not clothes. They have iron-on tags for clothes if you are interested. If you like kiddo tags it's worth being a friend on Facebook because they have bargains. It's fun because you get to make your own tag with colors, font and cute picture. Ours is green with a giraffe on it.
As far as clothes - I'm really liking the onesies with pants. She doesn't have this exact one but how cute is it?
Now that it's getting warmer I will use more the ones with long pants and short sleeves. These are hard to find so if you see them, grab them! They are great for daycare because they are easy access for diaper changes and I like having her legs protected when she's outside. You should see how dirty she gets!! Buy cheap ones of these (Lola finds them at Target, Kohl's and Walmart) because they get dirty quick.
If you can't find these, I also like pairing a onesie with light pants:
Carters has matching pants and onesie sets but I also mix and match a lot. If you are registering for clothes, try registering for stuff in the 6-9 month, 9 and 12 month sizes because you'll have a lot less clothes for this age and these clothes get dirty and used up really quickly. I've passed on a lot of my newborn and 3-6 month stuff to one of my friends who's pregnant but I doubt I'll be able to pass on a lot of the stuff the LO is wearing now. She just decimates it! For her right now the focus is on inexpensive 100% cotton stuff that she can roll around in. She's an active girl!
Oh yeah, one more thing - there is a Carter's outlet at the Ontario Mills mall. I went with my mom last weekend and it's insane how much stuff they have. They have some good deals - like we got a cute onesie pant set for $5.99. It's getting washed today and I think the LO will wear it this weekend. We have two baby get togethers going on... one for mommy & me (with dads (!) at the park (!)) and the other is our 3rd official birth class reunion. Looking forward to both.
OK - well hopefully this post is helpful!
This is my guilty pleasure:
It's a guilty pleasure because the book is all about raising a baby the attachment parenting way. So funny that when I was pregnant I thought I would be more nonchalant about the whole parenting thing but then I pretty much turned out to be an AP nut. Feeding on demand, baby wearing, "night time parenting", the whole caboodle. The reason I love reading The Baby Book is that it's even crazier than I am. I feel moderate when I read it and that makes me feel good. Some of the other baby books, like What to Expect the First Year, make me feel like a really lenient, bad mother. What to Expect says they should be sleeping through the night at 6 months - although the AAP defines this more narrowly than I would:
In fact, you’ll be encouraged to know that more than 90 percent of babies sleep through the night (six to eight hours without waking) by three months. Most infants are able to last this long between feedings when they reach 12 or 13 pounds
Also, What to Expect says that by 7 months, a baby should be starting to understand the meaning of "no". This baffles me! I can't even think of when I've had to tell the LO no. She is a baby for crying out loud. All she does is roll around, play with her toys, eat, drink and sleep. What would I be telling her no for?
Oops, anyway, this is supposed to be a post about products so let me get back to it.
The Exersaucer is still a big hit:
I put her in here every morning while I pump and she really enjoys it. I even bought her a new toy (switch-a-roo) to go in it:
Today was her first day with the chewy fish switch-a-roo and she loved it!
Also in the new toy department is this toothbrush:
Although she doesn't have teeth yet, she likes the feel of the bristles to chew on and it will hopefully get her used to brushing her teeth.
This oball rattle is a lot of fun, she can grab it anywhere and likes shaking it:
And she just adores her new baby walker from daddy:
It's by Plan Toys - they have all sorts of nice wood toys for babies. Kind of expensive but really nice looking. Right now she just enjoys standing and holding the handle and also playing with all the blocks. (The little car comes full of blocks.)
She still loves her Sophie teething giraffe (even though she's not teething yet):
But right now she seems to prefer the banana. It's nice to have an assortment though.
These kiddo tags are great for all her daycare stuff:
Even Sharpie markers start to wear off from being constantly run through the dishwasher so these stickers are really nice for her bottles and sunscreen and other daycare stuff. But not clothes. They have iron-on tags for clothes if you are interested. If you like kiddo tags it's worth being a friend on Facebook because they have bargains. It's fun because you get to make your own tag with colors, font and cute picture. Ours is green with a giraffe on it.
As far as clothes - I'm really liking the onesies with pants. She doesn't have this exact one but how cute is it?
Now that it's getting warmer I will use more the ones with long pants and short sleeves. These are hard to find so if you see them, grab them! They are great for daycare because they are easy access for diaper changes and I like having her legs protected when she's outside. You should see how dirty she gets!! Buy cheap ones of these (Lola finds them at Target, Kohl's and Walmart) because they get dirty quick.
If you can't find these, I also like pairing a onesie with light pants:
Carters has matching pants and onesie sets but I also mix and match a lot. If you are registering for clothes, try registering for stuff in the 6-9 month, 9 and 12 month sizes because you'll have a lot less clothes for this age and these clothes get dirty and used up really quickly. I've passed on a lot of my newborn and 3-6 month stuff to one of my friends who's pregnant but I doubt I'll be able to pass on a lot of the stuff the LO is wearing now. She just decimates it! For her right now the focus is on inexpensive 100% cotton stuff that she can roll around in. She's an active girl!
Oh yeah, one more thing - there is a Carter's outlet at the Ontario Mills mall. I went with my mom last weekend and it's insane how much stuff they have. They have some good deals - like we got a cute onesie pant set for $5.99. It's getting washed today and I think the LO will wear it this weekend. We have two baby get togethers going on... one for mommy & me (with dads (!) at the park (!)) and the other is our 3rd official birth class reunion. Looking forward to both.
OK - well hopefully this post is helpful!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Why I Blog
I read an interesting post here about mommy blogs and it got me thinking about blogging in general and why I devote time and energy to this one. This blog definitely started as a way to update friends and family on what's going on with the LO and I think that still serves as its main purpose. I've got around 40 readers or so a day (I check statistics through Google Analytics) and I'm willing to bet most of them are people that we know who are just checking in on the haps.
Second, this blog is a record for the LO, in the event that one day she ever wants to read these thoughts. It's nice that there are also pictures to go along with this record of our times. In fact, I just ordered a book of all the entries from 2009 through Blog2Print - I can't wait to see it. The printed books of this blog will serve as the LO's baby book - because along with my own thoughts and feelings, this is where I document her milestones and activities.
An unintended but rather happy consequence of the blog has been friendship! I enjoy getting comments from new and old friends and in April I'm actually going to a baby shower of a fellow mommy blogger. (Well I guess mommy-to-be blogger!) I know her parents but we have never actually met ... we became friends through following each others' blogs ... how cool is that? I feel that the blogosphere is a great support system. I enjoy reading posts of other mommy bloggers and knowing that they can read what I'm up to.
I like being a part of this thing - this blog world - knowing that I said "yes, I will try this". Sometimes it's hard to put myself out there for everyone to see. Not every day is a perfect day and I always try to be honest. I feel like that's what I'm offering here to those who stop by - an honest look at our lives - a peep into what makes our family tick. I also help I can offer some help or even just a few laughs to my readers and also to myself. Having this blog is a haven that I can return to, something that offers perspective. Sometimes I can be really upset about something and then when I go to write it down I realize it isn't that bad.
I know many of you have your own blogs and I enjoy reading them! To me reading blogs is an integral part of this whole thing. To those of you who don't -think about trying it! And if you do... drop me a link!
Second, this blog is a record for the LO, in the event that one day she ever wants to read these thoughts. It's nice that there are also pictures to go along with this record of our times. In fact, I just ordered a book of all the entries from 2009 through Blog2Print - I can't wait to see it. The printed books of this blog will serve as the LO's baby book - because along with my own thoughts and feelings, this is where I document her milestones and activities.
An unintended but rather happy consequence of the blog has been friendship! I enjoy getting comments from new and old friends and in April I'm actually going to a baby shower of a fellow mommy blogger. (Well I guess mommy-to-be blogger!) I know her parents but we have never actually met ... we became friends through following each others' blogs ... how cool is that? I feel that the blogosphere is a great support system. I enjoy reading posts of other mommy bloggers and knowing that they can read what I'm up to.
I like being a part of this thing - this blog world - knowing that I said "yes, I will try this". Sometimes it's hard to put myself out there for everyone to see. Not every day is a perfect day and I always try to be honest. I feel like that's what I'm offering here to those who stop by - an honest look at our lives - a peep into what makes our family tick. I also help I can offer some help or even just a few laughs to my readers and also to myself. Having this blog is a haven that I can return to, something that offers perspective. Sometimes I can be really upset about something and then when I go to write it down I realize it isn't that bad.
I know many of you have your own blogs and I enjoy reading them! To me reading blogs is an integral part of this whole thing. To those of you who don't -think about trying it! And if you do... drop me a link!
Update from the GP
Hi ... I hope you’re having a great week so far. Last week, Jaimee invited [LO] and [friend] to explore paper as a small group in the living room. [LO] was very immediate to jump right in and explore it. She began to roll over and over as she would crumble the paper in her hands and put it in her mouth. It seems like she really enjoys the sound it makes. It was also a nice experience for [LO] and [friend] to connect with one another. [Friend] would come and sit close to observe [LO] as she would shake the paper around. Working in small groups helps deepen the relationship between the children and the material itself. Enjoy the images and have a wonderful rest of the week.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Thanks Everyone! I've Decided For Now
Well I have to say I feel so thankful to have such a strong mommy support system. Not only did I get helpful comments through the blog, I also got some great tips via email. I asked for advice from my mom network of birth class friends and mommy & me friends and got a lot of great encouragement. I thought others might find it helpful so I'm going to post it here with baby names removed.
***
1 bottle each day is formula (her last bottle)...she didn't have any issues with formula but I hear some babies do...
I use Enfamil premium powder...it is more flexible than the premade stuff and super easy....you just fill the bottle with water (i use water from our brita) and mix in powder...
Enfamil also has little packets (4 oz) that are easy to travel with
***
I breast feed my son in the morning and when he goes to bed at night. He will usually have a bottle or two of breast milk, but then he will have a bottle of formula while I am at work as well. He drinks it slower, but other than that he has handled it fine. I use the powder formula just because if you use the already made formula once you open the bottle you need to use it within 3 days and it is expensive. Also, the already made formula needs to be refrigerated once it is opened. I don't find the powder to be annoying, and it's more cost effective.
***
As far as formula - I did research online and found Earth's Best got the best reviews for an organic formula (and had less sugar then the Babies Only brand). The premixed formulas are pretty expensive and it's not that much trouble to mix your own.
I loved BF and have to admit I was a little bummed when I stopped. On the other hand - I felt so free and relieved when it was over. So, there are two sides to the coin.
***
Dont feel guilty, we also live in a really crazy part of the country that puts a lot of pressure on women to do a lot of things to be the best moms. Do what is right for you and your family!
***
Do what is best for you!! At 8 mo. I didn't wean my daughter off and that was a mistake...one day she wasn't interested anymore, and I was tired of trying to make her eat from me so I just said thats it. Not the way to go for me because I kept eating like I was breastfeeding. Since you have already lost the prego weight and more (I hate you) :) I say go ahead and free yourself up!
It is nice when all you have to carry is a water bottle, formula packets, and extra liners. They don't take up much room, and if you have a big purse you can throw them in a ziplock and be done with it. The formula is just as good, and if you have a costco card you can get the big tubs of it for cheap!
Your her mom you know best...and whatever you do don't feel guilty about your choice. She is eating solids, and in about 5 months she will be on milk. I hope this helps :)
***
I BF baby #1 for 6 weeks, largely because I had to go to a work conference when he was 3 mos old and I couldn't figure out how I was going to work BF'ing in with that. That was in 2003 and there was really a lot less support/encouragement for BFing back then, in my experience.
Then, I BF baby #2 for 6 months, partly because she refused to take a bottle til she was 4 months old (when I went back to work!).
Both kids are plenty healthy, smart, etc., and I have never once felt like I "bonded" more with #2 because she was BF longer. There are so many million bonding opportunities with your kids as they grow that are totally unrelated to feeding, that I would not worry about that at all.
And I found that I had SO much more time when I stopped pumping...didn't realize how much time I spent pumping, cleaning pump accoutrements, making bottles, etc. until I stopped. I've never regretted weaning either of them when I did.
Good luck with your decision!! It's such a personal one. Just don't feel bad about whatever you decide to do.
***
I did, however, mention it to our pediatrician the other day to see what his recommendation was for formula. His favorite formula is Similac because it is a little bit sweeter than some of the others. Apparently breast milk is on the sweet side as well. Who knew? He also said that Gerber Good Start has the sweetness factor, too. I asked about Enfamil (because I have a million coupons for it) and he said that it's totally fine, just not as sweet, so there is a little bit more of a chance our little guy won't like it.
***
As for formula, we use Enfamil Premium w/ Lipil and love it. You will want to buy small cans of formula at first to see if she does okay with it. It's expensive so if she doesn't take to the first kind you try you won't feel as bad throwing out a small can of it. I mixed with breastmilk at first (when I had a frozen supply) and then went to full formula after that. Try formula at the bedtime feeding b/c it gives them more time to digest (less stinky spit up). I like the powder type b/c it's easy to take anywhere and you can add whatever temp water which makes it easy to prepare warm bottles:)
***
It's so great to have so much help and support! So what did I decide? After much thought and also a discussion with DH, I have decided to continue to pump for one more month and then see how I feel. I had committed to making it for one year and I feel like I should try a little longer and see how it goes. I think it was hard once my monthly visitor came, I was losing bodily fluids like gangbusters! I have to get back on my daily vitamins and also supplement with more calcium. I feel a lot better now that "Aunt Flo" is gone. Also after hearing some friends that pump more times per day than I do, I thought shoot, I can do this. So in a month, we'll see.
Oh and this weekend at Lola's I was wearing my old preggo bikini. DH took a shot of me and I thought it was funny to compare it to my preggo beach shot. Check this out!!
It's so crazy how big I was! I can't believe it! So all you preggo friends who feel huge, take heart. You'll get back to normal eventually. They say 9 months up, 9 months down so have patience with yourself. I still have some areas I'd like to work on but I'm not even thinking about exercise until I'm done pumping - and who knows then, right? One thing at a time. Also, I think that after being preggo I really appreciate my body so much more than I ever did before. I was always kind of hard on myself but after gaining and losing 45 pounds, I feel pretty good about the way I look. I also have a different view of my body after the pregnancy and birth - I feel like my body is more than just something to look at. Plus with the bfing I am a source of nourishment. It's all quite a trip.
Morning Edition has had some really interesting segments on work-life balance and flex schedules this week. It makes me appreciate my job even more. Definitely worth taking a listen if you have a chance...
Well, another day! Enjoy it!
***
1 bottle each day is formula (her last bottle)...she didn't have any issues with formula but I hear some babies do...
I use Enfamil premium powder...it is more flexible than the premade stuff and super easy....you just fill the bottle with water (i use water from our brita) and mix in powder...
Enfamil also has little packets (4 oz) that are easy to travel with
***
I breast feed my son in the morning and when he goes to bed at night. He will usually have a bottle or two of breast milk, but then he will have a bottle of formula while I am at work as well. He drinks it slower, but other than that he has handled it fine. I use the powder formula just because if you use the already made formula once you open the bottle you need to use it within 3 days and it is expensive. Also, the already made formula needs to be refrigerated once it is opened. I don't find the powder to be annoying, and it's more cost effective.
***
As far as formula - I did research online and found Earth's Best got the best reviews for an organic formula (and had less sugar then the Babies Only brand). The premixed formulas are pretty expensive and it's not that much trouble to mix your own.
I loved BF and have to admit I was a little bummed when I stopped. On the other hand - I felt so free and relieved when it was over. So, there are two sides to the coin.
***
Dont feel guilty, we also live in a really crazy part of the country that puts a lot of pressure on women to do a lot of things to be the best moms. Do what is right for you and your family!
***
Do what is best for you!! At 8 mo. I didn't wean my daughter off and that was a mistake...one day she wasn't interested anymore, and I was tired of trying to make her eat from me so I just said thats it. Not the way to go for me because I kept eating like I was breastfeeding. Since you have already lost the prego weight and more (I hate you) :) I say go ahead and free yourself up!
It is nice when all you have to carry is a water bottle, formula packets, and extra liners. They don't take up much room, and if you have a big purse you can throw them in a ziplock and be done with it. The formula is just as good, and if you have a costco card you can get the big tubs of it for cheap!
Your her mom you know best...and whatever you do don't feel guilty about your choice. She is eating solids, and in about 5 months she will be on milk. I hope this helps :)
***
I BF baby #1 for 6 weeks, largely because I had to go to a work conference when he was 3 mos old and I couldn't figure out how I was going to work BF'ing in with that. That was in 2003 and there was really a lot less support/encouragement for BFing back then, in my experience.
Then, I BF baby #2 for 6 months, partly because she refused to take a bottle til she was 4 months old (when I went back to work!).
Both kids are plenty healthy, smart, etc., and I have never once felt like I "bonded" more with #2 because she was BF longer. There are so many million bonding opportunities with your kids as they grow that are totally unrelated to feeding, that I would not worry about that at all.
And I found that I had SO much more time when I stopped pumping...didn't realize how much time I spent pumping, cleaning pump accoutrements, making bottles, etc. until I stopped. I've never regretted weaning either of them when I did.
Good luck with your decision!! It's such a personal one. Just don't feel bad about whatever you decide to do.
***
I did, however, mention it to our pediatrician the other day to see what his recommendation was for formula. His favorite formula is Similac because it is a little bit sweeter than some of the others. Apparently breast milk is on the sweet side as well. Who knew? He also said that Gerber Good Start has the sweetness factor, too. I asked about Enfamil (because I have a million coupons for it) and he said that it's totally fine, just not as sweet, so there is a little bit more of a chance our little guy won't like it.
***
As for formula, we use Enfamil Premium w/ Lipil and love it. You will want to buy small cans of formula at first to see if she does okay with it. It's expensive so if she doesn't take to the first kind you try you won't feel as bad throwing out a small can of it. I mixed with breastmilk at first (when I had a frozen supply) and then went to full formula after that. Try formula at the bedtime feeding b/c it gives them more time to digest (less stinky spit up). I like the powder type b/c it's easy to take anywhere and you can add whatever temp water which makes it easy to prepare warm bottles:)
***
It's so great to have so much help and support! So what did I decide? After much thought and also a discussion with DH, I have decided to continue to pump for one more month and then see how I feel. I had committed to making it for one year and I feel like I should try a little longer and see how it goes. I think it was hard once my monthly visitor came, I was losing bodily fluids like gangbusters! I have to get back on my daily vitamins and also supplement with more calcium. I feel a lot better now that "Aunt Flo" is gone. Also after hearing some friends that pump more times per day than I do, I thought shoot, I can do this. So in a month, we'll see.
Oh and this weekend at Lola's I was wearing my old preggo bikini. DH took a shot of me and I thought it was funny to compare it to my preggo beach shot. Check this out!!
It's so crazy how big I was! I can't believe it! So all you preggo friends who feel huge, take heart. You'll get back to normal eventually. They say 9 months up, 9 months down so have patience with yourself. I still have some areas I'd like to work on but I'm not even thinking about exercise until I'm done pumping - and who knows then, right? One thing at a time. Also, I think that after being preggo I really appreciate my body so much more than I ever did before. I was always kind of hard on myself but after gaining and losing 45 pounds, I feel pretty good about the way I look. I also have a different view of my body after the pregnancy and birth - I feel like my body is more than just something to look at. Plus with the bfing I am a source of nourishment. It's all quite a trip.
Morning Edition has had some really interesting segments on work-life balance and flex schedules this week. It makes me appreciate my job even more. Definitely worth taking a listen if you have a chance...
Well, another day! Enjoy it!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Thinking about Weaning
Hello friends! I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend. We had a great time at Lola's house and have lots of fun pictures to post as soon as we get a chance.
The topic I've been thinking about recently is weaning. The pumping is really wearing me down. I know there are so many great benefits to it - immunity for the LO, eating whatever and still losing weight, not having to spend money on formula... but it's just getting really tiring. I think the hardest times are the first morning pump and the pump around 8-9 at night. The first thing in the morning is hard because I always wake up in pain and a lot of the time I'm leaking. I can't sleep in even if I wanted to and someone else takes the LO. I have to get up and pump and then I could theoretically go back to sleep but pretty much I just get up and start my day. Nothing like 13 minutes being hooked up to a machine to get you going. Then I have to prep the bottles. Then it's time for breakfast for the LO so at that point it's just silly to try to go back to sleep.
The 8-9 at night is a drag because that's time that I could have been relaxing and winding down my day - maybe even doing a little night time stretching or something. I always have the time on my mind and how long it's been since my last pump. DH has been helping at the night time pump and making the bottles and cleaning the pump stuff off but still, it's just hard to keep up.
Every time I have considered weaning I have felt this crushing guilt - like I really need to keep it up for a year. But all my friends who weaned or didn't BF at all - I didn't feel like they were bad mothers and in fact I encouraged them to do what works best for them. I don't know why I have this double standard for myself.
I do have a bunch of frozen milk stored up so that could prolong the time the LO gets breast milk for a bit. Plus I'm pretty sure the weaning process will take me a little while so that would stretch it too.
What do you guys think? When did you wean your children? How was it for you?
The topic I've been thinking about recently is weaning. The pumping is really wearing me down. I know there are so many great benefits to it - immunity for the LO, eating whatever and still losing weight, not having to spend money on formula... but it's just getting really tiring. I think the hardest times are the first morning pump and the pump around 8-9 at night. The first thing in the morning is hard because I always wake up in pain and a lot of the time I'm leaking. I can't sleep in even if I wanted to and someone else takes the LO. I have to get up and pump and then I could theoretically go back to sleep but pretty much I just get up and start my day. Nothing like 13 minutes being hooked up to a machine to get you going. Then I have to prep the bottles. Then it's time for breakfast for the LO so at that point it's just silly to try to go back to sleep.
The 8-9 at night is a drag because that's time that I could have been relaxing and winding down my day - maybe even doing a little night time stretching or something. I always have the time on my mind and how long it's been since my last pump. DH has been helping at the night time pump and making the bottles and cleaning the pump stuff off but still, it's just hard to keep up.
Every time I have considered weaning I have felt this crushing guilt - like I really need to keep it up for a year. But all my friends who weaned or didn't BF at all - I didn't feel like they were bad mothers and in fact I encouraged them to do what works best for them. I don't know why I have this double standard for myself.
I do have a bunch of frozen milk stored up so that could prolong the time the LO gets breast milk for a bit. Plus I'm pretty sure the weaning process will take me a little while so that would stretch it too.
What do you guys think? When did you wean your children? How was it for you?
Friday, March 12, 2010
Cute Stuff
Yesterday when I picked the LO up at school, she was listening to one of the teachers read a book. The teacher told me that whenever they go to read a book to another kid, the LO just perks up and looks that way so they show her the books too. I felt so great about that because I read to her almost every day. We have quite a few books that we read together and I was wondering if it was having any effect at all. But it looks like she is enjoying it and wanting to listen to other people read too!
Also, yesterday she started opening and closing her hand like "bye bye", it's so cute. For a while she's been really focused on her wrists and rotating her hand around but this open and close thing is new. So cute.
I am very glad it's Friday. I may be grabbing a drink after work with a mommy & me friend, depends on what time she's done with her photo sitting at Sears. By the way, Sears has the CUTEST backdrops! Another friend sent along some pictures that she did there and I couldn't believe how awesome they were. I am trying to decide if we should take the LO there because we already have lots of pictures of her. But none with fun props. Although today DH told me that he's tired of our brown carpet being in all our pictures. So I'm going to have to research what kinds of fabrics photographers use. I thought we could go and just buy some at a fabric store and have some different kinds - like plain black, plain white, maybe faux fur. We'll see. We take this photo thing seriously people.
Work has been silly busy this week! Ah! Can't wait for the weekend to begin.
Also, yesterday she started opening and closing her hand like "bye bye", it's so cute. For a while she's been really focused on her wrists and rotating her hand around but this open and close thing is new. So cute.
I am very glad it's Friday. I may be grabbing a drink after work with a mommy & me friend, depends on what time she's done with her photo sitting at Sears. By the way, Sears has the CUTEST backdrops! Another friend sent along some pictures that she did there and I couldn't believe how awesome they were. I am trying to decide if we should take the LO there because we already have lots of pictures of her. But none with fun props. Although today DH told me that he's tired of our brown carpet being in all our pictures. So I'm going to have to research what kinds of fabrics photographers use. I thought we could go and just buy some at a fabric store and have some different kinds - like plain black, plain white, maybe faux fur. We'll see. We take this photo thing seriously people.
Work has been silly busy this week! Ah! Can't wait for the weekend to begin.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Post for the Women
Hello men readers! You probably just want to skip this post as it's all about lady stuff. Really, like my hair and monthly visitor.
OK so hey ladies! Hope your week is going well. First of all, today is a mommy milestone because I actually wore my hair down for work! I did it! My hair is NOT in a pony tail! One of my male coworkers actually looked at me and said "your hair looks different today". Hey, you know if a guy notices that something is going on!
Second - huge bummer - I got my period yesterday. What the hell. I am still pumping like 40 oz a day so it just goes to show you that even if you produce a lot of milk it's not birth control. Sucks though - not having to deal w/my period was a nice benefit of bf'ing. So this morning I had to drag the LO into the drugstore with me so I could get tampons - I was unprepared. Last night I had to make a pad with a combination of pantyliners and a nursing pad. So not cool. I used to use this awesome thing called the Diva Cup for my period but it's unclear to me whether it will mess with my IUD so I had to buy tampons for the first time in many, many years. Ugh. It was actually funny because it was the LO's first time in a drugstore and she was amazed by all the stuff in the aisles.
I think the LO is starting to teethe. She makes this funny face where she's rubbing her gums back and forth - they told me at school that's the first sign of teething. Also, she's chewing on her hand all the time - more than normal. I try to have chewy things for her so she doesn't chew her hand but you can't always stop her. Well, it's the next adventure!
Everything is going pretty well with solid foods. The LO tried egg yolk mixed with milk and was not a big fan, she does like yogurt, doesn't really like mashed avocado and doesn't really like jarred prunes. She likes applesauce and pears and loves all the veggies. I think with the egg yolk and the avocado it's the texture, we're going to have to mix it in the blender or something instead of just a fork. She has real texture issues.
Well, that's about it. I think I might be having mommy & me happy hour at El Cholo on Friday again so that will be fun! Woo woo! And this weekend we're going to Lola's house... very fun. Hot tub here we come! First I just have to get through the week...
OK so hey ladies! Hope your week is going well. First of all, today is a mommy milestone because I actually wore my hair down for work! I did it! My hair is NOT in a pony tail! One of my male coworkers actually looked at me and said "your hair looks different today". Hey, you know if a guy notices that something is going on!
Second - huge bummer - I got my period yesterday. What the hell. I am still pumping like 40 oz a day so it just goes to show you that even if you produce a lot of milk it's not birth control. Sucks though - not having to deal w/my period was a nice benefit of bf'ing. So this morning I had to drag the LO into the drugstore with me so I could get tampons - I was unprepared. Last night I had to make a pad with a combination of pantyliners and a nursing pad. So not cool. I used to use this awesome thing called the Diva Cup for my period but it's unclear to me whether it will mess with my IUD so I had to buy tampons for the first time in many, many years. Ugh. It was actually funny because it was the LO's first time in a drugstore and she was amazed by all the stuff in the aisles.
I think the LO is starting to teethe. She makes this funny face where she's rubbing her gums back and forth - they told me at school that's the first sign of teething. Also, she's chewing on her hand all the time - more than normal. I try to have chewy things for her so she doesn't chew her hand but you can't always stop her. Well, it's the next adventure!
Everything is going pretty well with solid foods. The LO tried egg yolk mixed with milk and was not a big fan, she does like yogurt, doesn't really like mashed avocado and doesn't really like jarred prunes. She likes applesauce and pears and loves all the veggies. I think with the egg yolk and the avocado it's the texture, we're going to have to mix it in the blender or something instead of just a fork. She has real texture issues.
Well, that's about it. I think I might be having mommy & me happy hour at El Cholo on Friday again so that will be fun! Woo woo! And this weekend we're going to Lola's house... very fun. Hot tub here we come! First I just have to get through the week...
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Pictures!
My sunshine:
Enjoying our lunch by the pool at Lowe's last weekend:
Playing with her friend from birth class:
All your toys are belong to me:
Happy boy in his jumper:
If I was this cute I'd be fascinated by mirrors too:
Enjoying our lunch by the pool at Lowe's last weekend:
Playing with her friend from birth class:
All your toys are belong to me:
Happy boy in his jumper:
If I was this cute I'd be fascinated by mirrors too:
Monday, March 8, 2010
A Little Out of Our Price Range
On Saturday, DH and I had date night and we went to Teacher Appreciation night for the GP. It was a great event - they had it at the new Annenberg Community Beach House... a very cool place. We talked with some of the other parents from the LO's room and a bunch of the teachers as well. There was food, drinks and some video about the teachers and the school. Every time I learn more about the methods at the GP I feel more fortunate to be able to be a part of it. It's hard to be away from your child during the day but it makes it better when you know that it's a good place. Also all the LO's teachers came up to me and told me how much they enjoy being with her and how she's so happy and smiles at everyone. That makes me happy too.
So when it came time for the live auction, DH and I grabbed a paddle. I was ready to bid on the watercolor and even though DH and I talked about $50 as being reasonable, I was thinking I might pitch in from my own money and go up to $200 or so. Well, the bidding for that item STARTED at $200. The watercolor ended up going for $1200. There was a serving platter that the LO collaborated on that ended up going for $800. The most popular item of the night was a collage of self-portraits the oldest kids did (up to age 5) and that went for $4300. Oh my gosh I was really unprepared for the prices things went for. I mean - that's like a family vacation! What the heck? The good news is, it is for a good cause and the LO benefits from all the donations that go to further education for the teachers and resources for the school. I don't think DH and I will be purchasing any artwork from the school in all the years the LO is there. Even to benefit charity that just seems like too much for me. We already pay a hefty monthly tuition and have other required donations. So yeah, the live auction is a little out of our price range.
Also exciting was the fact that one of the parents who was bidding is a movie star. I didn't notice until someone told me of course. Proof that I don't even notice a movie star when they are right in front of me. Not like it was Tom Cruise or anyone like that but still. For those of you who follow these types of things, I'll just say that his initials are B.B. and he once dated Julia Roberts.
So that was a great night.
The rest of the weekend was also enjoyable. We went out for pizza on Friday night and the LO sat in a high chair for the first time. That was neat. The only bummer was that the local pizza place did not have a changing table. They had two unisex bathrooms and there wasn't even a counter top. I had to lay a changing pad and a disposable changing paper on the ground and change her there. If she had just gone #1 instead of #2, I might have waited until we walked home to change her but as it was, I just had to go with it. Really makes me appreciate when places have changing tables.
Saturday afternoon Super Auntie and her boyfriend came out, it was great to see them and they watched the LO for us while DH and I went out to the Teacher Appreciation night. They spent the night too - fun times.
On Sunday we had lunch with some of our friends from birth class - DH took some pictures of the two babies playing and I'll have to get those posted.
Oh, one sad note is that the LO now cries a bit when I leave her at school in the morning. It's really hard. She is starting to have a little separation anxiety which is a phase they go through about this time. Sometimes she is even upset at home when I leave the room. It's nice to feel wanted but at the same time I want her to feel secure and confident with or without me. I'm sure it's just a passing phase though.
Well, I hope everyone else enjoyed their weekend!
So when it came time for the live auction, DH and I grabbed a paddle. I was ready to bid on the watercolor and even though DH and I talked about $50 as being reasonable, I was thinking I might pitch in from my own money and go up to $200 or so. Well, the bidding for that item STARTED at $200. The watercolor ended up going for $1200. There was a serving platter that the LO collaborated on that ended up going for $800. The most popular item of the night was a collage of self-portraits the oldest kids did (up to age 5) and that went for $4300. Oh my gosh I was really unprepared for the prices things went for. I mean - that's like a family vacation! What the heck? The good news is, it is for a good cause and the LO benefits from all the donations that go to further education for the teachers and resources for the school. I don't think DH and I will be purchasing any artwork from the school in all the years the LO is there. Even to benefit charity that just seems like too much for me. We already pay a hefty monthly tuition and have other required donations. So yeah, the live auction is a little out of our price range.
Also exciting was the fact that one of the parents who was bidding is a movie star. I didn't notice until someone told me of course. Proof that I don't even notice a movie star when they are right in front of me. Not like it was Tom Cruise or anyone like that but still. For those of you who follow these types of things, I'll just say that his initials are B.B. and he once dated Julia Roberts.
So that was a great night.
The rest of the weekend was also enjoyable. We went out for pizza on Friday night and the LO sat in a high chair for the first time. That was neat. The only bummer was that the local pizza place did not have a changing table. They had two unisex bathrooms and there wasn't even a counter top. I had to lay a changing pad and a disposable changing paper on the ground and change her there. If she had just gone #1 instead of #2, I might have waited until we walked home to change her but as it was, I just had to go with it. Really makes me appreciate when places have changing tables.
Saturday afternoon Super Auntie and her boyfriend came out, it was great to see them and they watched the LO for us while DH and I went out to the Teacher Appreciation night. They spent the night too - fun times.
On Sunday we had lunch with some of our friends from birth class - DH took some pictures of the two babies playing and I'll have to get those posted.
Oh, one sad note is that the LO now cries a bit when I leave her at school in the morning. It's really hard. She is starting to have a little separation anxiety which is a phase they go through about this time. Sometimes she is even upset at home when I leave the room. It's nice to feel wanted but at the same time I want her to feel secure and confident with or without me. I'm sure it's just a passing phase though.
Well, I hope everyone else enjoyed their weekend!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Good Luck Finding a Jacket!
When I go to pick up the LO at school, I often have a little note telling me what she needs - like more diapers, extra clothes, etc. The other day I got a note that she needed a thicker sweatshirt or a jacket. The problem is, I don't actually have one of these things for her. Usually Lola buys all her clothes but I won't be seeing Lola for another week or so and I thought I could just get a jacket for her at Old Navy. Well, the problem is that the stores have all their spring stuff out right now and it's impossible to find a warm jacket.
I did find this one at ON in the boys section (I guess because boys need jackets but not girls)
It's lined so it's a bit warmer than a thin sweatshirt (all she has right now). I bought it but I'm a little peeved it was $24 in the store and it's $15 online. Also there are some jackets online at eBay but I feel like once I win the auction and get it shipped, I could have easily found something else or had Lola find something. I am trying to get something quickly here folks.
I can't believe how hard it is to just find the LO something warm. I called the Gap and asked what they have available and it was the same answer - all spring stuff. I guess I shouldn't be surprised because the Gap and ON are the same but still. There is a really expensive children's store here (This Little Piggy Wears Cotton) but I think I just might be angry if I go in there and they have a jacket for some ridiculous price like $60.
I guess I could check thrift shops but I don't have a lot of time to weed through stuff. Ugh! Too bad I didn't receive a note that says she needs a bathing suit, flip flops and a cute little dress for school because that would have been EASY to find.
If any friends reading this has a warm 6-12 month something I can borrow (boy or girl) let me know.
Enjoy the weekend!
I did find this one at ON in the boys section (I guess because boys need jackets but not girls)
It's lined so it's a bit warmer than a thin sweatshirt (all she has right now). I bought it but I'm a little peeved it was $24 in the store and it's $15 online. Also there are some jackets online at eBay but I feel like once I win the auction and get it shipped, I could have easily found something else or had Lola find something. I am trying to get something quickly here folks.
I can't believe how hard it is to just find the LO something warm. I called the Gap and asked what they have available and it was the same answer - all spring stuff. I guess I shouldn't be surprised because the Gap and ON are the same but still. There is a really expensive children's store here (This Little Piggy Wears Cotton) but I think I just might be angry if I go in there and they have a jacket for some ridiculous price like $60.
I guess I could check thrift shops but I don't have a lot of time to weed through stuff. Ugh! Too bad I didn't receive a note that says she needs a bathing suit, flip flops and a cute little dress for school because that would have been EASY to find.
If any friends reading this has a warm 6-12 month something I can borrow (boy or girl) let me know.
Enjoy the weekend!
Four Years!
Today is my four year anniversary at my job. This is BY FAR the longest I've stayed at any place, I am pretty proud of myself. I do enjoy it here though and I'm thankful that they allow so much flexibility with my time so I can take care of the LO.
Yesterday I went to look at a rental house just a few blocks from the LO's school:
While I LOVED the big deck and yard as well as the neighborhood, I just can't deal with how small these little old houses are. Darn these Santa Monica bungalows! The bedrooms were so small they would be a tight fit for our bed and the closets were a joke. No covered parking, small kitchen, ugh. I just can't do it. It did make me really appreciate our place! So anyway, I don't think we'll be moving any time soon.
Work has been crazy busy but that's nice because the days go by fast.
Oh and NEWS FLASH - the LO actually slept through the night on Wednesday night. I couldn't believe it. Of course last night she woke up but still, if she can do it once that means she will be able to do it more often eventually. That's always how it happens.
Tomorrow is an exciting day. I am getting my hair done (hooray), then Super Auntie is coming out in the afternoon. She will be watching the LO in the evening while DH and I go to the Teacher Appreciation / Fundraising event for the GP. Big night out! I'm hoping it doesn't rain so we can walk there but we'll see.
Well TGIF everyone!
Yesterday I went to look at a rental house just a few blocks from the LO's school:
While I LOVED the big deck and yard as well as the neighborhood, I just can't deal with how small these little old houses are. Darn these Santa Monica bungalows! The bedrooms were so small they would be a tight fit for our bed and the closets were a joke. No covered parking, small kitchen, ugh. I just can't do it. It did make me really appreciate our place! So anyway, I don't think we'll be moving any time soon.
Work has been crazy busy but that's nice because the days go by fast.
Oh and NEWS FLASH - the LO actually slept through the night on Wednesday night. I couldn't believe it. Of course last night she woke up but still, if she can do it once that means she will be able to do it more often eventually. That's always how it happens.
Tomorrow is an exciting day. I am getting my hair done (hooray), then Super Auntie is coming out in the afternoon. She will be watching the LO in the evening while DH and I go to the Teacher Appreciation / Fundraising event for the GP. Big night out! I'm hoping it doesn't rain so we can walk there but we'll see.
Well TGIF everyone!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Freaking Inevitable
Well, I guess it was bound to happen. I put my pumping sign up on my office door and *thought* I locked my door but I didn't. A male coworker walked in on me pumping. Damn. I don't know who's more embarrassed....
And no, he's never heard of knocking.
And no, he's never heard of knocking.
We Have a Winner!
OK - so the winner for "what I should have said" is Sarah! The new answer I will use when asked if the LO sleeps through the night is...
She sleeps like a baby!
This is awesome and truthful.
Also, I think I was wrong about yams. What the hell.
Yams on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yam_(vegetable)
Sweet Potatoes on Wikipidia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_potato
You know what they say, you learn something new every day y'all.
She sleeps like a baby!
This is awesome and truthful.
Also, I think I was wrong about yams. What the hell.
Yams on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yam_(vegetable)
Sweet Potatoes on Wikipidia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_potato
You know what they say, you learn something new every day y'all.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Yams, Poop, What I Should Have Said
Well, if that title doesn't just leave you hanging on the edge of your seats waiting to read this post, I don't know what will.
Last night, I was able to sneak in the yams! I felt like I should try again so I did. Instead of using a real yam that we mashed ourselves, I used the Earth's Best "sweet potatoes" in a jar. There is a lot of confusion about yams and sweet potatoes. Mostly, what we all call sweet potatoes are yams. They have the purplish skin and orange flesh. Actual sweet potatoes look more like real potatoes. Yes - this blog is full of fascinating knowledge! So anyway, I fed the LO a jar of the Earth's Best yams and she ate the whole thing. Super score! I think her problem with any food has to do with texture and not flavor. She didn't really like the peas mixed with brown rice either - I think it's a bit thicker than the plain peas. She also didn't like the Gerber peas - also thicker than the Earth's Best. Live and learn. I'm sure she'll eventually be able to eat thicker consistencies but we have a variety of stuff she can eat right now so I just try to switch it up.
So one interesting thing about switching up the food is that you get a different poop surprise every time! I feed her peas - she poops peas. I feed her carrots - carrot poop! I guess it shouldn't come as a big surprise but it's just funny how her poop changes so much depending on what she eats. Her poop is also getting more solid and sticky - which is nice because it doesn't really leak anymore. So wow! That's fun stuff!
I have been reading more blogs and one feature I saw that was cool was "what I should have said Wednesday". This is where you get to write about an encounter you had but revise it and write what you should have said instead of whatever stupid thing came out of your mouth. For this Wednesday though, I'm going to ask for help in what I should have said.
So about a week or so ago, one of my coworkers came up to me and asked about the LO. He has 3 kids and I'd say the oldest is 8 or 9 or so - so well past the baby days. First I said how we were baby-proofing things - and then he says all smug how he baby-proofed everything for the first two but by the third he didn't baby-proof anything. I didn't really have anything to say about that. So yeah! I am such a sucker that I try to protect my baby and really I should be more nonchalant about it. Or something. I don't know what message he was trying to get across. Anyway this isn't where I have a problem with the conversation. So then he says that the LO must be sleeping through the night by now.
This is where I don't know what to do.
The thing is, she isn't sleeping through the night. I don't have a problem with it but when I tell this to people they always seem so judge-y. Like their kids were so perfect and slept through the night since day 1 or something. Whatever. So I say to him - "no, she still wakes up once or twice a night and it's not so bad". To me, really this isn't bad. To someone who used to wake up 3-4 times a night, I'll take 1-2 times any day. Plus, I feel like she's making progress.
So then he says that at around 4 months or so he let his kids cry it out and then they were sleeping through the night after 1 or 2 nights. OK - I'm glad he thinks this is what happened in his mind but every friend I have who has done CIO has had setbacks. You know, they teethe, they get sick, something changes - they are up in the night again. This is one reason I'm not doing CIO, because I feel like letting the LO just do her thing naturally and eventually it will be fine. But of course I don't have an argument with any of the CIO people or tell them they're doing it wrong - but somehow many of the CIO people tell me I should be doing it THEIR way.
So anyway, what SHOULD I have said? I have considered saying "yes" when people ask me if the LO is sleeping through the night. That would just end the conversation then and there. But I'm not so hot on lying as a rule. I feel like saying "that's none of your business" might sound kind of harsh on a conversation topic like this. So what's the best thing to do?
Well anyway - things are going well here except for I've tweaked a back muscle. I don't have time to exercise and don't see that I will until I stop pumping so I'm not sure what the solution is. The LO is so heavy and often on the floor so picking her up all the time is causing me problems. Gosh I am a WIMP! I guess I'll just have to work through the pain on this one.
OK - everyone have a great day.
***Oh my gosh, it's Tuesday, I am such a dork!!! So much for "what I should have said Wednesday". Help myself.****
Last night, I was able to sneak in the yams! I felt like I should try again so I did. Instead of using a real yam that we mashed ourselves, I used the Earth's Best "sweet potatoes" in a jar. There is a lot of confusion about yams and sweet potatoes. Mostly, what we all call sweet potatoes are yams. They have the purplish skin and orange flesh. Actual sweet potatoes look more like real potatoes. Yes - this blog is full of fascinating knowledge! So anyway, I fed the LO a jar of the Earth's Best yams and she ate the whole thing. Super score! I think her problem with any food has to do with texture and not flavor. She didn't really like the peas mixed with brown rice either - I think it's a bit thicker than the plain peas. She also didn't like the Gerber peas - also thicker than the Earth's Best. Live and learn. I'm sure she'll eventually be able to eat thicker consistencies but we have a variety of stuff she can eat right now so I just try to switch it up.
So one interesting thing about switching up the food is that you get a different poop surprise every time! I feed her peas - she poops peas. I feed her carrots - carrot poop! I guess it shouldn't come as a big surprise but it's just funny how her poop changes so much depending on what she eats. Her poop is also getting more solid and sticky - which is nice because it doesn't really leak anymore. So wow! That's fun stuff!
I have been reading more blogs and one feature I saw that was cool was "what I should have said Wednesday". This is where you get to write about an encounter you had but revise it and write what you should have said instead of whatever stupid thing came out of your mouth. For this Wednesday though, I'm going to ask for help in what I should have said.
So about a week or so ago, one of my coworkers came up to me and asked about the LO. He has 3 kids and I'd say the oldest is 8 or 9 or so - so well past the baby days. First I said how we were baby-proofing things - and then he says all smug how he baby-proofed everything for the first two but by the third he didn't baby-proof anything. I didn't really have anything to say about that. So yeah! I am such a sucker that I try to protect my baby and really I should be more nonchalant about it. Or something. I don't know what message he was trying to get across. Anyway this isn't where I have a problem with the conversation. So then he says that the LO must be sleeping through the night by now.
This is where I don't know what to do.
The thing is, she isn't sleeping through the night. I don't have a problem with it but when I tell this to people they always seem so judge-y. Like their kids were so perfect and slept through the night since day 1 or something. Whatever. So I say to him - "no, she still wakes up once or twice a night and it's not so bad". To me, really this isn't bad. To someone who used to wake up 3-4 times a night, I'll take 1-2 times any day. Plus, I feel like she's making progress.
So then he says that at around 4 months or so he let his kids cry it out and then they were sleeping through the night after 1 or 2 nights. OK - I'm glad he thinks this is what happened in his mind but every friend I have who has done CIO has had setbacks. You know, they teethe, they get sick, something changes - they are up in the night again. This is one reason I'm not doing CIO, because I feel like letting the LO just do her thing naturally and eventually it will be fine. But of course I don't have an argument with any of the CIO people or tell them they're doing it wrong - but somehow many of the CIO people tell me I should be doing it THEIR way.
So anyway, what SHOULD I have said? I have considered saying "yes" when people ask me if the LO is sleeping through the night. That would just end the conversation then and there. But I'm not so hot on lying as a rule. I feel like saying "that's none of your business" might sound kind of harsh on a conversation topic like this. So what's the best thing to do?
Well anyway - things are going well here except for I've tweaked a back muscle. I don't have time to exercise and don't see that I will until I stop pumping so I'm not sure what the solution is. The LO is so heavy and often on the floor so picking her up all the time is causing me problems. Gosh I am a WIMP! I guess I'll just have to work through the pain on this one.
OK - everyone have a great day.
***Oh my gosh, it's Tuesday, I am such a dork!!! So much for "what I should have said Wednesday". Help myself.****
Monday, March 1, 2010
Ah, the Weekend, So Lovely
We had a nice weekend together. Yesterday the weather was BEAUTIFUL so we went on a big walk. DH had the LO in the bjorn and we walked all the way to Casa Del Mar (almost 2 miles). I pushed the stroller because it's the easiest way to have the diaper bag and a seat for the LO when we stop for lunch. We wanted to have a bite at the Casa Del Mar's lobby bar but they don't serve food until 3:00. They did have a 3-course brunch but I thought that would be too much for the LO to sit through - not to mention it would cost an arm and a leg ($60 per person BEFORE drinks). So then we walked to Big Dean's - a dive bar near the pier that serves food. Big Dean's was totally packed - sucky.
So for Plan C, we walked to Lowe's - which ended up being the best option by far. We sat at a shaded table outside by the pool, we were able to see the ocean and our lunch was great. It was really nice to be outside.
Today I have to take the LO back to the pediatrician for more shots. When we took her in for her 6 month appointment, she needed so many vaccines that she would have had to have 6 shots. That is ridiculous! I guess she might have been able to handle it but DH and I definitely couldn't so we made an appointment to go back. Today she's getting the flu shot and the H1N1 and I think something else. Ugh. I hate it.
So this morning when I dropped her off at the GP they had a video playing in the office. It was showing her room making water color paintings. I remember when I picked her up a week or so ago she had blue all over her outfit and that was what it was from. So cute watching them paint. However, it's pretty funny what the GP does with the paintings. They had a few kids collaborate on each work of art and then they auction it off Saturday night at the Teacher Appreciation Night fundraiser. So the parents have a few cocktails and then everyone goes nuts bidding on the art. At first I was trying to figure out why someone would bid up a painting by someone else's kid but when I saw that a few kids collaborate on each painting - now I get it. Man - that is sneaky, huh? The worst is that Lola is dying to see this painting so I know we're going to have to buy it. Well, we'll see. DH and I will have to talk beforehand and establish limits for ourselves. Dang! Oh well, it should be a fun night anyway and nice to mingle with the other parents.
Well, here we go, another week!
So for Plan C, we walked to Lowe's - which ended up being the best option by far. We sat at a shaded table outside by the pool, we were able to see the ocean and our lunch was great. It was really nice to be outside.
Today I have to take the LO back to the pediatrician for more shots. When we took her in for her 6 month appointment, she needed so many vaccines that she would have had to have 6 shots. That is ridiculous! I guess she might have been able to handle it but DH and I definitely couldn't so we made an appointment to go back. Today she's getting the flu shot and the H1N1 and I think something else. Ugh. I hate it.
So this morning when I dropped her off at the GP they had a video playing in the office. It was showing her room making water color paintings. I remember when I picked her up a week or so ago she had blue all over her outfit and that was what it was from. So cute watching them paint. However, it's pretty funny what the GP does with the paintings. They had a few kids collaborate on each work of art and then they auction it off Saturday night at the Teacher Appreciation Night fundraiser. So the parents have a few cocktails and then everyone goes nuts bidding on the art. At first I was trying to figure out why someone would bid up a painting by someone else's kid but when I saw that a few kids collaborate on each painting - now I get it. Man - that is sneaky, huh? The worst is that Lola is dying to see this painting so I know we're going to have to buy it. Well, we'll see. DH and I will have to talk beforehand and establish limits for ourselves. Dang! Oh well, it should be a fun night anyway and nice to mingle with the other parents.
Well, here we go, another week!
Pictures from Sweatshirt Day
Here are the pictures from the day when she peed on her outfit and we had to put my sweatshirt on her. So funny.
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