Kate's first corn on the cob. She's had other corn...but this was her first attempt at gnawing it off the cob!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Eating Sand
OK dear readers...sorry it's been so long...but...we went to Ocean City, NJ today and here is some video of Kate's first dip in the big pond...check out the HUGE fistful of sand she gobbled without either of us knowing!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Eating!
Kate is eating like a big girl now! This is a video of lunch from the other day. On the menu....steamed organic carrots, cantaloupe, pasta and I think a few Cheerios for good measure. She does very well now with getting the food in her mouth AND chewing! It's so cute to see her chewing and looking intently at her tray deciding which morsel she'll choose next.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Adjusting
We have made it. Totally adjusted to this major change. Kate and I are officially getting along great. This change has been so wonderful for us.
She is now a VERY regular napper, and I am able to do stuff while she is sleeping so when she wakes up we are both happy. She no longer wakes up from a short nap to a crabby mommy who is sleep deprived. I now have at LEAST 8 hours of sleep every night, and time to myself during the day...what could be better?
The only issue is that if she doesn't get her naps on a fairly regular basis, she isn't happy, so I'm trying my best to see to it that we stick to her schedule. It's not hard.
I'm really loving my time with Jon in the evenings too. I just hope hope hope that this situation will work for our family financially and that we can be like this until Kate goes off to school.
Just thought I'd update you on how it's going.
She is now a VERY regular napper, and I am able to do stuff while she is sleeping so when she wakes up we are both happy. She no longer wakes up from a short nap to a crabby mommy who is sleep deprived. I now have at LEAST 8 hours of sleep every night, and time to myself during the day...what could be better?
The only issue is that if she doesn't get her naps on a fairly regular basis, she isn't happy, so I'm trying my best to see to it that we stick to her schedule. It's not hard.
I'm really loving my time with Jon in the evenings too. I just hope hope hope that this situation will work for our family financially and that we can be like this until Kate goes off to school.
Just thought I'd update you on how it's going.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Hungry Much?
I think Kate is ready for her third solid meal during the day...which will be at lunch. How do I know this? Because for the past couple of days when I hold her between 12 and 1, she CHOMPS on my shoulder...HARD! She's left little teeth marks each time! So, I decided to, um well, feed her and it turns out that I think she was just hungry.
Today was fun....we went to her little friend Oliver's house today and then we went to their pool. Kate LOVED the water! We had a great time! We know Oliver (and his awesome mom) from Gymboree.
New for today as well: Kate ate a huge piece of cantaloupe out of the mesh feeder and LOVED it! And she clapped today too!
So, it was a fun day of discovery and firsts. I'm so lucky I get to be there for it all!
Today was fun....we went to her little friend Oliver's house today and then we went to their pool. Kate LOVED the water! We had a great time! We know Oliver (and his awesome mom) from Gymboree.
New for today as well: Kate ate a huge piece of cantaloupe out of the mesh feeder and LOVED it! And she clapped today too!
So, it was a fun day of discovery and firsts. I'm so lucky I get to be there for it all!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Busy Day!
Wow! Who knew stay-at-home Mommy-ness could be so busy? I sure didn't. Before we knew it, the day was over.
Kate and I hit the hills early and did our 4 1/2 miles...most of which I ran (yay me). We were back for her breakfast and then playtime until she was ready for a nap...which she did for an hour and a half (yay me again). During that time, I showered and got ready for the day and filed for unemployment (yay a third time)! Then Nia (my now FORMER co-worker) came by and we went to lunch. Kate napped after lunch (whoot whoot) and then her friend Libby and her mom Lauren came over and we all played on the front lawn until almost bath time.
Unfortunately, unlike last nights dreamy feed before bed, Kate was still wired from the day, so she bit a little while nursing. I was so happy last night when she nursed as she used to, all sleepy and cuddly and eventually falling totally asleep. Tonight, I put a wiggly Kate into her crib still very much awake. The bad news: she maybe starting a trend where she doesn't nurse all cuddly-like which is heart-breaking. The good news: at least I know I have a baby who I can put down still awake and she's able to put herself to sleep...which I know, in the future will be HUGE!
Oh, and as a sidebar....I hope the *&#!@#^&* -ing ice cream truck drives off a cliff. TURN OFF YOUR DAMN MUSIC! If it wakes the baby, trust me, the dude will have more than melted ice cream to worry about. Sheesh!
Kate and I hit the hills early and did our 4 1/2 miles...most of which I ran (yay me). We were back for her breakfast and then playtime until she was ready for a nap...which she did for an hour and a half (yay me again). During that time, I showered and got ready for the day and filed for unemployment (yay a third time)! Then Nia (my now FORMER co-worker) came by and we went to lunch. Kate napped after lunch (whoot whoot) and then her friend Libby and her mom Lauren came over and we all played on the front lawn until almost bath time.
Unfortunately, unlike last nights dreamy feed before bed, Kate was still wired from the day, so she bit a little while nursing. I was so happy last night when she nursed as she used to, all sleepy and cuddly and eventually falling totally asleep. Tonight, I put a wiggly Kate into her crib still very much awake. The bad news: she maybe starting a trend where she doesn't nurse all cuddly-like which is heart-breaking. The good news: at least I know I have a baby who I can put down still awake and she's able to put herself to sleep...which I know, in the future will be HUGE!
Oh, and as a sidebar....I hope the *&#!@#^&* -ing ice cream truck drives off a cliff. TURN OFF YOUR DAMN MUSIC! If it wakes the baby, trust me, the dude will have more than melted ice cream to worry about. Sheesh!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Time for a Glass of Wine
It's almost 8 p.m.
Jon is on his way home.
The baby is sleeping.
Dinner is almost ready...just need to drop the orichiette and grill the shrimp. We're having orichiette pasta tossed with roasted grape tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, capers and fresh mozerella topped with grilled shrimp. Jealous?
I ran and lifted today.
I just poured a glass of wine.
Life is SO good.
Jon is on his way home.
The baby is sleeping.
Dinner is almost ready...just need to drop the orichiette and grill the shrimp. We're having orichiette pasta tossed with roasted grape tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, capers and fresh mozerella topped with grilled shrimp. Jealous?
I ran and lifted today.
I just poured a glass of wine.
Life is SO good.
Monday, June 29, 2009
This is the Life!
Ok...I'm not kidding. I DON'T MISS WORK AT ALL!!!!!!
Right now, whilst little sweet Kate naps (going on an hour now) I am sitting on our deck, enjoying the summer breeze. I've got the grocery shopping done and it's all put away and organized. I'm practically the only one in the neighborhood as most are at work (haha) or at the shore. It's a great great day!
Jon and I had a nice late dinner last night on the deck and I was in bed at 10. I got up with him at 6:45 this morning...pumped so that he could feed her and then I stayed in bed while the two of them had their time. Then Kate and I went to the store for the food for the week.
I could get used to this.
I do have to work today. At noon, our sitter is coming and I'm headed to the city for computer training at channel 3. I'm doing the weather for them this Sunday...so bring on the part-time work. Another thing on the agenda today...filing for unemployment. Awesome.
We had a great time with Jon's mom this weekend...stay tuned for pictures. Kate and Grandma are now the best of friends. It was a joy to see them finally get to spend some quality time together!
Life is good.
Have a FANTASTIC Monday!
Right now, whilst little sweet Kate naps (going on an hour now) I am sitting on our deck, enjoying the summer breeze. I've got the grocery shopping done and it's all put away and organized. I'm practically the only one in the neighborhood as most are at work (haha) or at the shore. It's a great great day!
Jon and I had a nice late dinner last night on the deck and I was in bed at 10. I got up with him at 6:45 this morning...pumped so that he could feed her and then I stayed in bed while the two of them had their time. Then Kate and I went to the store for the food for the week.
I could get used to this.
I do have to work today. At noon, our sitter is coming and I'm headed to the city for computer training at channel 3. I'm doing the weather for them this Sunday...so bring on the part-time work. Another thing on the agenda today...filing for unemployment. Awesome.
We had a great time with Jon's mom this weekend...stay tuned for pictures. Kate and Grandma are now the best of friends. It was a joy to see them finally get to spend some quality time together!
Life is good.
Have a FANTASTIC Monday!
Friday, June 26, 2009
The End.
That's it...today's the day...the end. It's the official end of The CW Philly Wake-Up News...the show I've done since we moved here in 2005.
The following list is not meant to sound negative, but I was thinking about what I'd miss about this job, and the only thing I could honestly come up with was the steady paycheck. There is a long list, however, of things I won't miss...so here they are in no particular order:
-getting up at 12:30 a.m.
-putting on make-up and doing hair in a public bathroom
-dealing with divas
-being on the air every stinkin' 5 minutes for four excruciating hours
-repeating myself
-being tired all the time
-my alarm clock
-eating dinner at 3 p.m.
-not getting to see Jon during the week
-Sunday afternoon crunch to get everything done before a 5 p.m. dinner
-my weather computers
-not having a live radar
-not having a live warning system
-broadcasting out of a closet
-not getting to see Kate first thing every morning
-being able to go outside and enjoy early mornings
I'm sure there are more things...but this is what I could come up with.
I couldn't be more excited about this new chapter in my life. I never really thought about being a stay-at-home mom until we had Kate. Now, it's all I want. The fact that I get to still do weather occasionally is a perfect situation for me. It's awesome.
So, for those of you who read this and watched the show, it's been an interesting ride to say the least. Know that come Monday morning, I'll be enjoying every moment of the morning with Jon and Kate (no, not the idiots on the reality show...).
The following list is not meant to sound negative, but I was thinking about what I'd miss about this job, and the only thing I could honestly come up with was the steady paycheck. There is a long list, however, of things I won't miss...so here they are in no particular order:
-getting up at 12:30 a.m.
-putting on make-up and doing hair in a public bathroom
-dealing with divas
-being on the air every stinkin' 5 minutes for four excruciating hours
-repeating myself
-being tired all the time
-my alarm clock
-eating dinner at 3 p.m.
-not getting to see Jon during the week
-Sunday afternoon crunch to get everything done before a 5 p.m. dinner
-my weather computers
-not having a live radar
-not having a live warning system
-broadcasting out of a closet
-not getting to see Kate first thing every morning
-being able to go outside and enjoy early mornings
I'm sure there are more things...but this is what I could come up with.
I couldn't be more excited about this new chapter in my life. I never really thought about being a stay-at-home mom until we had Kate. Now, it's all I want. The fact that I get to still do weather occasionally is a perfect situation for me. It's awesome.
So, for those of you who read this and watched the show, it's been an interesting ride to say the least. Know that come Monday morning, I'll be enjoying every moment of the morning with Jon and Kate (no, not the idiots on the reality show...).
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
No Joke.
Kate slept from 6:15 last night...until 7 this morning!!!!
Jon texted me and said he didn't know if he should be happy that he got to sleep last night, or miffed because she didn't sleep like this Monday night. Poor guy. It's ok...he's now off until Monday...a VERY well deserved break. His mom is coming tonight and we can't WAIT for her to see Kate. It'll be such fun.
As for me...I got to sleep in until 1 a.m.! It felt good, but I'm still REALLY excited to actually sleep until 6 a.m. on a regular basis. Ahhhhhh just two more days (after today)!
Oh, and a note for my dear and faithful readers. Monday obviously begins a new chapter in my life...and so I will be blogging still, but it may take some time for me to get into a blogging schedule, so forgive me if my posts are a bit erratic at first.
Have a great Wednesday!
Jon texted me and said he didn't know if he should be happy that he got to sleep last night, or miffed because she didn't sleep like this Monday night. Poor guy. It's ok...he's now off until Monday...a VERY well deserved break. His mom is coming tonight and we can't WAIT for her to see Kate. It'll be such fun.
As for me...I got to sleep in until 1 a.m.! It felt good, but I'm still REALLY excited to actually sleep until 6 a.m. on a regular basis. Ahhhhhh just two more days (after today)!
Oh, and a note for my dear and faithful readers. Monday obviously begins a new chapter in my life...and so I will be blogging still, but it may take some time for me to get into a blogging schedule, so forgive me if my posts are a bit erratic at first.
Have a great Wednesday!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Murphy's Law
Poor Jon.
He has a MAJOR presentation for work today. A new tie, clean suit...presentation. He is presenting his portion of the capital budget to the ABC big-wigs and he's been preparing for this for months.
Together we decided that last night would be my last middle-of-the-night feed for Kate. Though she really doesn't need the feed anymore, we've continued it through last night so that we could avoid the chance of her waking up hungry in the middle of the night and mommy isn't there. It was especially important for last night because of Jon's big day today. He is off the rest of the week, so if she wakes up hungry, there will be a bottle for her and he won't have to go to work tired. Does that make sense?
ANYWAY...I purposely didn't change her diaper before the feed last night because she usually cries when I do so I didn't want Jon to wake up. She was such an angel during her feed. She didn't even wake. It was a true dream feed. She snuggled close and nursed well, and I put her back to bed without her making a peep.
Until apparently 2:30.
Then she woke, not sure why...and Jon was up with her for the rest of the night.
Soooo, he now has to present his budget on very little sleep (which we tried SO hard to avoid) and attend a dinner tonight. Poor baby. If only this budget presentation would have been next week...
He has a MAJOR presentation for work today. A new tie, clean suit...presentation. He is presenting his portion of the capital budget to the ABC big-wigs and he's been preparing for this for months.
Together we decided that last night would be my last middle-of-the-night feed for Kate. Though she really doesn't need the feed anymore, we've continued it through last night so that we could avoid the chance of her waking up hungry in the middle of the night and mommy isn't there. It was especially important for last night because of Jon's big day today. He is off the rest of the week, so if she wakes up hungry, there will be a bottle for her and he won't have to go to work tired. Does that make sense?
ANYWAY...I purposely didn't change her diaper before the feed last night because she usually cries when I do so I didn't want Jon to wake up. She was such an angel during her feed. She didn't even wake. It was a true dream feed. She snuggled close and nursed well, and I put her back to bed without her making a peep.
Until apparently 2:30.
Then she woke, not sure why...and Jon was up with her for the rest of the night.
Soooo, he now has to present his budget on very little sleep (which we tried SO hard to avoid) and attend a dinner tonight. Poor baby. If only this budget presentation would have been next week...
Monday, June 22, 2009
5 To Go
That's it...just 5 shows to go.
5 more times of getting up at an INSANELY early hour (actually 4 more now).
5 more times of doing a FOUR HOUR show where I'm on every 5 freekin' minutes.
5 more times of broadcasting from a closet with college-like lighting and cameras.
Just 5 more times.
I....can't.....wait!
5 more times of getting up at an INSANELY early hour (actually 4 more now).
5 more times of doing a FOUR HOUR show where I'm on every 5 freekin' minutes.
5 more times of broadcasting from a closet with college-like lighting and cameras.
Just 5 more times.
I....can't.....wait!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Busy Day!
Yesterday was quite a busy day! First, after Kate napped for almost TWO HOURS we went to the grocery store. She rode in the cart like a big girl in one of the shopping cart covers that Jon's mom made for her. These covers are AMAZING! They have giant pockets and even a safety belt and fit over the carts perfectly. My mother-in-law is very talented and as you can see, Kate LOVED her seat!
Naturally, I had a lot to do yesterday because of returning from vacation...laundry, putting away groceries, the normal organizing and preparing for the next work day, etc. For some reason, Kate decided that she didn't want to play by herself...AT ALL! Perhaps she was used to having lots of attention while we were in Michigan? It's not like I was ignoring her AT ALL, but she is usually happy playing on the floor with her toys for bits of time. Not yesterday. In fact, she didn't even like being in her bouncy jumper that she loves so much. Every time I set her down to either empty the dishwasher or fold a load of laundry, she was fine for about two minutes, then she'd start to cry. I had her right next to me too. In fact when I was folding the laundry, I put her in her laundry basket with her favorite toy and she seemed happy right at my feet. But then she pooped and when I laughed, she started to cry. Odd.
Hopefully this is a brief transitional phase that will be over today. Her sleeping is still great, but this is yet another challenge. We hate to see her cry...it just breaks our hearts.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Rock Star Baby
Really, she is.
Kate was AMAZING on our trip to Michigan. I was a bit nervous for many reasons...the flights....sleeping in not one but TWO strange places...keeping the schedule, etc....and EVERYTHING was PERFECT! No joke!
Her first flight was great! She nursed/slept the entire flight, and had it not been for the creepy businessman next to me asking inappropriate questions, it would've been a really nice flight. We got to my parents where she had her solid food and then two hours later went to bed. She slept the WHOLE NIGHT! We...were...shocked!
Friday morning, we loaded her up with all of her stuff and went to my sister's house in Grand Rapids for Emily's 7th birthday party and for my sister's 40th. We had a busy, but great time, and again...despite being overstimulated by lots of kids and a dog, Kate slept the entire night through in the pack-n-play with me sleeping in the same room too.
We went back to Ann Arbor on Saturday after watching Erin's soccer game in the morning and Kate did so well in the car...until about a half hour out of Ann Arbor. Nobody really wanted to stop for me to nurse her (neither did I), so I unhooked and hung myself over her while she stayed safely strapped in her car seat and nursed her! Truthfully, I got the idea from someone at Gymboree and it worked GREAT. All she needed was a snack to get her through to the next feed, so I was only doing this for about 5 minutes. We were cracking up in the car!
The rest of the trip was just great and Kate did amazing on the flight back. She fell into a DEEP sleep and I even had to wake her as the plane was landing to nurse her on the way down. The cool thing is that I was telling the Northwest agent at the ticket counter about the creepy businessman from the flight down, and so she gave me the bulkhead and blocked the seat next to me, so Kate and I had our own row on the way back! Awesome! I will post pictures of the visit later today when I have some time to upload.
The best news: I have SEVEN more shows 'til I'm a stay at home mommy. I can't WAIT!
Kate was AMAZING on our trip to Michigan. I was a bit nervous for many reasons...the flights....sleeping in not one but TWO strange places...keeping the schedule, etc....and EVERYTHING was PERFECT! No joke!
Her first flight was great! She nursed/slept the entire flight, and had it not been for the creepy businessman next to me asking inappropriate questions, it would've been a really nice flight. We got to my parents where she had her solid food and then two hours later went to bed. She slept the WHOLE NIGHT! We...were...shocked!
Friday morning, we loaded her up with all of her stuff and went to my sister's house in Grand Rapids for Emily's 7th birthday party and for my sister's 40th. We had a busy, but great time, and again...despite being overstimulated by lots of kids and a dog, Kate slept the entire night through in the pack-n-play with me sleeping in the same room too.
We went back to Ann Arbor on Saturday after watching Erin's soccer game in the morning and Kate did so well in the car...until about a half hour out of Ann Arbor. Nobody really wanted to stop for me to nurse her (neither did I), so I unhooked and hung myself over her while she stayed safely strapped in her car seat and nursed her! Truthfully, I got the idea from someone at Gymboree and it worked GREAT. All she needed was a snack to get her through to the next feed, so I was only doing this for about 5 minutes. We were cracking up in the car!
The rest of the trip was just great and Kate did amazing on the flight back. She fell into a DEEP sleep and I even had to wake her as the plane was landing to nurse her on the way down. The cool thing is that I was telling the Northwest agent at the ticket counter about the creepy businessman from the flight down, and so she gave me the bulkhead and blocked the seat next to me, so Kate and I had our own row on the way back! Awesome! I will post pictures of the visit later today when I have some time to upload.
The best news: I have SEVEN more shows 'til I'm a stay at home mommy. I can't WAIT!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Leaving On A Jet Plane...
Kate and I are embarking on quite an adventure this morning...we are flying for the first time! We are headed to Michigan for my sister's 40th birthday (old fart).
I slept last night....yes...I slept....from 9:15 'til just after 5 this morning. It was AMAZING!!!! I'm now enjoying morning TV...yes ENJOYING, some computer time and finishing packing. Jon wants to do the baby routine this morning because he will miss her so much over the next few days...so I've pumped a fresh bottle for him to give to her this morning.
You should see all of the stuff we have...and....I am carrying her through the airport in the baby bjorn. I didn't want to deal with a stroller as there is one for us to use in Michigan. We'll see how it goes. I'll try to update from MI.
I slept last night....yes...I slept....from 9:15 'til just after 5 this morning. It was AMAZING!!!! I'm now enjoying morning TV...yes ENJOYING, some computer time and finishing packing. Jon wants to do the baby routine this morning because he will miss her so much over the next few days...so I've pumped a fresh bottle for him to give to her this morning.
You should see all of the stuff we have...and....I am carrying her through the airport in the baby bjorn. I didn't want to deal with a stroller as there is one for us to use in Michigan. We'll see how it goes. I'll try to update from MI.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Of Course
Just over 2 weeks left in the show and my computer went totally FUBAR this morning. Sorry no long post today...too busy trying to keep graphics on the air.
After this...8 more shows for me.
YAY!!!
After this...8 more shows for me.
YAY!!!
I Need To Figure Out
How to take a picture of Kate while she is sleeping on her tummy with her butt in the air without the camera flash and sounds waking her. It's probably the cutest thing I've ever seen.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Senior-itus
The last time I had senior-itus was when I went back to school a few years ago to finish my certification in meteorology. The last semester was the hardest...not academically, but mentally. I got through it....and I'll get through this.
Normally on Sundays it's full-tilt-boogie all day to get ready for the coming week. I usually let Jon sleep in (since he takes care of sweet Kate during the week in the mornings) and I get up with her. We spend our morning together, and then when I put her down for her morning nap, I go to the grocery store...then come home, make breakfast and continue most of my day in the kitchen getting stuff ready for the week.
But yesterday...I woke up with the BIGGEST case of senior-itus. I know that in a couple of weeks, Sundays won't be hellish work before work days anymore. Sundays will be relaxing days for all three of us. Jon won't be rushing around to do all of the family laundry on Sundays...I'll do that during the week. We'll actually be able to maybe go to the zoo or run errands....like normal people do on Sundays....and the best part? I won't have to go to bed at 7!!! So yesterday, I really had no motivation to do my Sunday stuff around the house. It was almost as if I was in denial that I had to work this week....almost as if the show was already over. Maybe it's because I just--can't---wait to be free of this schedule!
Don't get me wrong...I will miss the steady paycheck, but the steady family time will be....priceless.
Normally on Sundays it's full-tilt-boogie all day to get ready for the coming week. I usually let Jon sleep in (since he takes care of sweet Kate during the week in the mornings) and I get up with her. We spend our morning together, and then when I put her down for her morning nap, I go to the grocery store...then come home, make breakfast and continue most of my day in the kitchen getting stuff ready for the week.
But yesterday...I woke up with the BIGGEST case of senior-itus. I know that in a couple of weeks, Sundays won't be hellish work before work days anymore. Sundays will be relaxing days for all three of us. Jon won't be rushing around to do all of the family laundry on Sundays...I'll do that during the week. We'll actually be able to maybe go to the zoo or run errands....like normal people do on Sundays....and the best part? I won't have to go to bed at 7!!! So yesterday, I really had no motivation to do my Sunday stuff around the house. It was almost as if I was in denial that I had to work this week....almost as if the show was already over. Maybe it's because I just--can't---wait to be free of this schedule!
Don't get me wrong...I will miss the steady paycheck, but the steady family time will be....priceless.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Is It Really That Simple?
Kate slept last night...and therefore, so did I.
Here's how it happened:
See, we have a sitter on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and she tries to follow the napping and eating schedule that we have set for Kate. Since Kate hasn't been sleeping well in her crib lately, we knew naps with the sitter would be tough. Well, she has three kids of her own who are now teens so she does know a thing or two about babies. When I got home, Kate was soundly napping and I asked her how she did it. She said Kate was on HER BELLY!
Could it really be that simple? Place your kid on her belly and she'll sleep? Now that we're past the dangerous SIDS peak age, and she can move her head and prop herself up, it's safe for her to sleep like that.
So, then WHY DIDN'T I TRY THIS EARLIER IN THE WEEK?
I'm not sure, but perhaps exhaustion prevented me from thinking of every option...you think?
Anyway, last night I did the bedtime routine as usual. When it was time to place her in her crib I said a silent prayer that tummy sleeping would work, and then gently lowered her into her crib onto her tummy. As usual, she woke up and started to cry as SOON as I put her in. She was up on her elbows looking up at the back of her room and crying. Because she couldn't see me, I stayed in the front of her room and watched her for the six or so minutes it took for her to calm herself down and lay her head down. I left the room, and called Jon to tell him the news and then went back to our room and waited about 1/2 hour. I went to check on her to make sure she was ok, and then I went to sleep and woke up to my alarm!
Jon said he checked on her quite a few times through the evening and she was very peaceful with just a few little cries. Of course, I'm at work now, so who knows how she did the rest of the night....but at least we feel we may be onto something!
Is it really just that simple?
Here's how it happened:
See, we have a sitter on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and she tries to follow the napping and eating schedule that we have set for Kate. Since Kate hasn't been sleeping well in her crib lately, we knew naps with the sitter would be tough. Well, she has three kids of her own who are now teens so she does know a thing or two about babies. When I got home, Kate was soundly napping and I asked her how she did it. She said Kate was on HER BELLY!
Could it really be that simple? Place your kid on her belly and she'll sleep? Now that we're past the dangerous SIDS peak age, and she can move her head and prop herself up, it's safe for her to sleep like that.
So, then WHY DIDN'T I TRY THIS EARLIER IN THE WEEK?
I'm not sure, but perhaps exhaustion prevented me from thinking of every option...you think?
Anyway, last night I did the bedtime routine as usual. When it was time to place her in her crib I said a silent prayer that tummy sleeping would work, and then gently lowered her into her crib onto her tummy. As usual, she woke up and started to cry as SOON as I put her in. She was up on her elbows looking up at the back of her room and crying. Because she couldn't see me, I stayed in the front of her room and watched her for the six or so minutes it took for her to calm herself down and lay her head down. I left the room, and called Jon to tell him the news and then went back to our room and waited about 1/2 hour. I went to check on her to make sure she was ok, and then I went to sleep and woke up to my alarm!
Jon said he checked on her quite a few times through the evening and she was very peaceful with just a few little cries. Of course, I'm at work now, so who knows how she did the rest of the night....but at least we feel we may be onto something!
Is it really just that simple?
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Congratulate Me
I got laid off today!
I want congratulations please. This was the answer to my prayers.
Our show was cancelled effective June 26th and all involved with the show will be without a job thereafter.
Since you're reading this blog, you know I've struggled with this schedule for quite some time. I am happy and relieved that it will finally be over.
Financially, will our lives be as easy? No. But we're fortunate enough that Jon has a great job, so we'll make it.
I will be staying on as a back-up meteorologist for our CBS station which truly gives me everything I want. I will be able to stay at home for the foreseeable future with our precious Kate and work occasionally on the air.
It's the best case scenario for me, and I couldn't be more happy.
So, tonight...raise a glass and toast the fact that in three short weeks, I WILL BE GETTING SOME SLEEP!!!!!
I want congratulations please. This was the answer to my prayers.
Our show was cancelled effective June 26th and all involved with the show will be without a job thereafter.
Since you're reading this blog, you know I've struggled with this schedule for quite some time. I am happy and relieved that it will finally be over.
Financially, will our lives be as easy? No. But we're fortunate enough that Jon has a great job, so we'll make it.
I will be staying on as a back-up meteorologist for our CBS station which truly gives me everything I want. I will be able to stay at home for the foreseeable future with our precious Kate and work occasionally on the air.
It's the best case scenario for me, and I couldn't be more happy.
So, tonight...raise a glass and toast the fact that in three short weeks, I WILL BE GETTING SOME SLEEP!!!!!
Another One Bites The Dust
Another night's sleep that is....
Last night, as SOON as I put a happily sleeping Kate into her crib, she started to wail again. I let her go and crawled into bed. At 8:30, she was still going. I had to go to her. I couldn't stand it any longer.
Jon came home to find me curled up in a ball and sobbing and Kate just calming down on our bed. I wailed like a baby. In fact, I cried so hard, I think I damaged something in my larynx. My voice went out after the first hour of the show. They wanted to send me home because it sounds just awful, but my backup lives an hour from here (two in traffic) so she'd get here just as the show would end. I will re-assess for tomorrow. No voice=no work.
I want to write more about how I feel about the Kate situation, but frankly, I'm just too exhausted.
Last night, as SOON as I put a happily sleeping Kate into her crib, she started to wail again. I let her go and crawled into bed. At 8:30, she was still going. I had to go to her. I couldn't stand it any longer.
Jon came home to find me curled up in a ball and sobbing and Kate just calming down on our bed. I wailed like a baby. In fact, I cried so hard, I think I damaged something in my larynx. My voice went out after the first hour of the show. They wanted to send me home because it sounds just awful, but my backup lives an hour from here (two in traffic) so she'd get here just as the show would end. I will re-assess for tomorrow. No voice=no work.
I want to write more about how I feel about the Kate situation, but frankly, I'm just too exhausted.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Crying It Out
This was a first for us. We have always had the baby who ONLY cries when something is greatly wrong. Heck, she doesn't even really cry when she's hungry. After just under 7 months of easy care, Kate has started to test her boundaries with us.
We honestly couldn't figure out why lately she was waking 1/2 hour after being put to bed. She would start to cry, so one of us would comfort her thinking that either she was hungry, had teething pain or had gas. We thought something was wrong, as has been the cause of her crying up until this point.
Last night, out of PURE exhaustion (both of us), I put her to bed a half hour early. She was beside herself tired. She didn't sleep much the night before, and didn't really nap during the day (not for a lack of trying, thank you very much). She was O-U-T OUT when I put her down for the night after a blissful nursing session. I literally fell into bed and crashed myself. 30 minutes later, she started to wail. Mind you, before she went down...I gave her some Mylecon in case the increased saliva from her teething was upsetting her belly AND I rubbed baby orajel on her little gums..top AND bottom (she's getting THREE teeth right now). She had just been fed, so I knew all of my bases were covered. So, why then, was she up and wailing?
I just don't know the answer, so I decided that it was time to let her cry it out. Let me tell you, that is NOT for the faint of heart. It went on for 35 gut-wrenching, heart-breaking minutes. She cried and cried. At some times it felt like her little larynx was going to come out of her throat. I was listening intently to the monitor resisting with every fiber of my being to go to her. Finally, after a long long long time, she stopped. After hearing several gulps and deep breaths, she finally fell asleep. I checked on her about 100 times until 8, when I finally drifted off to sleep. I awoke with a start at midnight and heard nothing. She was still peacefully sleeping. The "cry it out" method worked.
Now onto the debate. Did I do the right thing? There are many opinions on this issue of letting a baby cry, and frankly, I'm not totally sure where I stand. In the past, we knew we had a baby who only cried for a reason, so we've never had to let her cry. We usually go to her, and soothe her and she's fine and goes back to sleep. Last night (and previous nights), I honestly think she was crying just to be held...which both Jon and I would gladly oblige, but at some point, we need sleep too.
Babies cry because it's their only way to communicate. There are distinct cries...there's the "I'm hungry" cry, there's the "I'm in pain" cry and last night..I believe it was the "I want attention" cry. I am more than happy to give her all of the love and attention I can possibly offer during the day, but she needs to learn that at night, she needs to sleep....alone.
Believe me...my heart broke into a million pieces while listening to her cry herself hoarse. I wanted NOTHING more than to burst through that door and take her into my arms and hold her close and rub her back. But in the end, even though it was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, I think it may have been the right thing.
If anyone has a problem with the way I handled this, please, before you pass judgement...put yourself in my shoes. Live life on MY schedule for a few days...with a crying/no sleeping baby...do a four hour show each day where you have to be "perky" at 5 a.m....and then we'll talk.
We honestly couldn't figure out why lately she was waking 1/2 hour after being put to bed. She would start to cry, so one of us would comfort her thinking that either she was hungry, had teething pain or had gas. We thought something was wrong, as has been the cause of her crying up until this point.
Last night, out of PURE exhaustion (both of us), I put her to bed a half hour early. She was beside herself tired. She didn't sleep much the night before, and didn't really nap during the day (not for a lack of trying, thank you very much). She was O-U-T OUT when I put her down for the night after a blissful nursing session. I literally fell into bed and crashed myself. 30 minutes later, she started to wail. Mind you, before she went down...I gave her some Mylecon in case the increased saliva from her teething was upsetting her belly AND I rubbed baby orajel on her little gums..top AND bottom (she's getting THREE teeth right now). She had just been fed, so I knew all of my bases were covered. So, why then, was she up and wailing?
I just don't know the answer, so I decided that it was time to let her cry it out. Let me tell you, that is NOT for the faint of heart. It went on for 35 gut-wrenching, heart-breaking minutes. She cried and cried. At some times it felt like her little larynx was going to come out of her throat. I was listening intently to the monitor resisting with every fiber of my being to go to her. Finally, after a long long long time, she stopped. After hearing several gulps and deep breaths, she finally fell asleep. I checked on her about 100 times until 8, when I finally drifted off to sleep. I awoke with a start at midnight and heard nothing. She was still peacefully sleeping. The "cry it out" method worked.
Now onto the debate. Did I do the right thing? There are many opinions on this issue of letting a baby cry, and frankly, I'm not totally sure where I stand. In the past, we knew we had a baby who only cried for a reason, so we've never had to let her cry. We usually go to her, and soothe her and she's fine and goes back to sleep. Last night (and previous nights), I honestly think she was crying just to be held...which both Jon and I would gladly oblige, but at some point, we need sleep too.
Babies cry because it's their only way to communicate. There are distinct cries...there's the "I'm hungry" cry, there's the "I'm in pain" cry and last night..I believe it was the "I want attention" cry. I am more than happy to give her all of the love and attention I can possibly offer during the day, but she needs to learn that at night, she needs to sleep....alone.
Believe me...my heart broke into a million pieces while listening to her cry herself hoarse. I wanted NOTHING more than to burst through that door and take her into my arms and hold her close and rub her back. But in the end, even though it was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, I think it may have been the right thing.
If anyone has a problem with the way I handled this, please, before you pass judgement...put yourself in my shoes. Live life on MY schedule for a few days...with a crying/no sleeping baby...do a four hour show each day where you have to be "perky" at 5 a.m....and then we'll talk.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Frustration
First let me say that I nearly choked my co-worker yesterday when she complained of being tired because she had too much sleep. I wanted to bitch slap her three ways to Sunday. I know, I know, she doesn't know what I'm going through, yadda yadda yadda, but when you're this tired, logic isn't always there.
With that said, obviously our sleep issues are continuing. In fact, Kate hasn't been the same since we returned from Boston.
She is up most of the night and is now biting me at feedings which, as you may have guessed, is as horrid as it sounds. Now some of you may ask "why are you still nursing?" And to be honest...it's complicated. For those of you who have nursed a child, you understand that it's not easy to stop, emotionally. I have nourished my child for the now seven months she's been alive and to come to the realization that I can no longer do that is a tough pill to swallow. I love the connection we have when she's nursing (and not biting). It has, however, become a frustrating experience now that she is biting. I still want to supply her with my milk, so I think a temporary solution will be for me to pump a few times a day and feed her by bottle. She can bite those all she wants. I also think that she may concentrate on eating more and therefore will be more satisfied so she'll sleep better at night. I will still nurse her in the evening before bed.
The stress of the feeding issues and the no sleeping for both of us has put us on edge and honestly, I feel like I'm on the verge of tears every moment lately. And oh yeah, factor in my INSANELY STUPID work schedule. Is this what the beginnings of a nervous breakdown feels like? I'm beginning to think so. People keep telling me that it will get better. My question...is when?
With that said, obviously our sleep issues are continuing. In fact, Kate hasn't been the same since we returned from Boston.
She is up most of the night and is now biting me at feedings which, as you may have guessed, is as horrid as it sounds. Now some of you may ask "why are you still nursing?" And to be honest...it's complicated. For those of you who have nursed a child, you understand that it's not easy to stop, emotionally. I have nourished my child for the now seven months she's been alive and to come to the realization that I can no longer do that is a tough pill to swallow. I love the connection we have when she's nursing (and not biting). It has, however, become a frustrating experience now that she is biting. I still want to supply her with my milk, so I think a temporary solution will be for me to pump a few times a day and feed her by bottle. She can bite those all she wants. I also think that she may concentrate on eating more and therefore will be more satisfied so she'll sleep better at night. I will still nurse her in the evening before bed.
The stress of the feeding issues and the no sleeping for both of us has put us on edge and honestly, I feel like I'm on the verge of tears every moment lately. And oh yeah, factor in my INSANELY STUPID work schedule. Is this what the beginnings of a nervous breakdown feels like? I'm beginning to think so. People keep telling me that it will get better. My question...is when?
Sunday, May 31, 2009
What Weekend?
Let me first start by saying that yes...I feel incredibly lucky to have a job in TV in this economy at not one but TWO stations in the nations fourth biggest television market.
BUT...
It doesn't make it easier when you have to work a sixth day and your baby is going through some sort of issue which causes her to wake-up every night at 10 pm (in the middle of my night of sleep) hungry. As I type this, it is Sunday morning and I'm working at CBS. Then it's onto the grocery store right after and Sunday will continue as usual.
Kate's nighttime shenanigans is all a phase...it will end...but for the time being, Jon and I are simply exhausted.
BUT...
It doesn't make it easier when you have to work a sixth day and your baby is going through some sort of issue which causes her to wake-up every night at 10 pm (in the middle of my night of sleep) hungry. As I type this, it is Sunday morning and I'm working at CBS. Then it's onto the grocery store right after and Sunday will continue as usual.
Kate's nighttime shenanigans is all a phase...it will end...but for the time being, Jon and I are simply exhausted.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Melt My Heart
Jon's cousin took this shot at the graduation we went to last weekend. The look on Jon's face shows how blissfully in love he is with his baby girl. I LOVE THIS PICTURE!!!!!
However, our faces were anything BUT blissful when she woke up yet again at 10 last night. This is clearly another phase which I know will pass, but man, does it ever suck right now. She wakes at 10 each night wailing. Jon comforts her and rocks her back to sleep. Then, the SECOND he puts her back in her crib, wail-fest. We're really not sure what is bothering her. So, for the second night, he brought her in to me. The night before, he brought her in and she went right back to sleep with me. However last night...no dice. She kicked and cooed for over an hour. I decided to slip her a boob to see if that would lull her back to sleep. It worked for a while. She feel back to sleep, but then awoke again. This went on, unfortunately, until my alarm went off. Ugh.
Glad it's Friday!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
So Tired
Kate is still adjusting to being back home. She hasn't slept through the night since we've been back. Last night, she wailed at 10. I had Jon bring her in to sleep with me because I knew I could get her back to sleep without nursing her (and plus when she's crying like that I can't resist cuddling her). She went right back to sleep, but then woke a few times to thump and then we both fell back to sleep until my alarm went off at 12:30. Jon said she slept after I left for work.
We know that this is because she was SO rigorously scheduled before our trip and really didn't stick to much of a schedule on the trip, so she's just getting back into the swing of things and this will take a few days...but ugh. Can the weekend PLEASE get here? We're both so tired! I'll tell you one thing: I'm sticking to her schedule like glue when we go to Ann Arbor in two weeks...which will be much easier because we won't be in a hotel.
Today will be fun...Gymboree! Have a great day all!
We know that this is because she was SO rigorously scheduled before our trip and really didn't stick to much of a schedule on the trip, so she's just getting back into the swing of things and this will take a few days...but ugh. Can the weekend PLEASE get here? We're both so tired! I'll tell you one thing: I'm sticking to her schedule like glue when we go to Ann Arbor in two weeks...which will be much easier because we won't be in a hotel.
Today will be fun...Gymboree! Have a great day all!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Late and Quick Post
Hi...this post is late and it will be quick because Kate is playing by herself in her pack-n-play and I want to join her. Here is a shot of my beautiful Clematis...it is doing SO well this year! Oh yeah, and our little budding driver. This was taken at a rest stop on our trip to Boston.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
We're Back
And REALLY glad to be.
It was so great to go to Boston to see Jon's second cousin graduate from high school...and it was fantastic to introduce Kate to the family (pics to come)...however...we really had NO IDEA what it would be like to take a baby to a hotel for a few days.
She actually did quite well considering the circumstances. On Friday, we hit the road at about 10:30 a.m. which was really the earliest we could get off because I had to work. We arrived at our hotel in Plymouth, Mass. at 11:05 p.m. That's right...over 12 1/2 hours! The trip should've taken 6 hours...but...we hit New York City traffic and that morphed into a 27 mile back-up due to an accident on 95. We sat for almost two hours in the NYC traffic, and then another 3 hours in the accident back-up. We were beside ourselves tired. Kate, however, did a magnificent job. She really only fussed the last half hour of the trip...and who wouldn't fuss after being in a car seat that long? She slept o.k. at the hotel...in fact, the last night we were there she slept from 9:30 p.m. until 7:30 a.m.! I slept most of that as well...which was awesome!
She also did quite well being fed on the road (we had to stop each time I had to nurse her for obvious reasons, but thankfully I could slide into the back seat and feed her the solid food while she was buckled in her seat). However now that we're back, she's back on her schedule and it was a bit of a rough transition for her. We really tried to keep her on schedule yesterday, but when we put her to bed last night, she wanted nothing to do with her crib. Jon was an angel and unpacked most of our stuff, so when she kept wailing at 7:30 and then 8, I had him bring her in with me and she slept beside me until Jon came to bed. She had one crying session at 10, and then thumping and kicking...but the two of us managed to get a little sleep.
I'm beyond exhausted today, but we'll chip away at getting back to normal. After all, the laundry needs to get done, the grocery shopping, the cooking, etc. Ugh. It's going to be a busy day.
It was so great to go to Boston to see Jon's second cousin graduate from high school...and it was fantastic to introduce Kate to the family (pics to come)...however...we really had NO IDEA what it would be like to take a baby to a hotel for a few days.
She actually did quite well considering the circumstances. On Friday, we hit the road at about 10:30 a.m. which was really the earliest we could get off because I had to work. We arrived at our hotel in Plymouth, Mass. at 11:05 p.m. That's right...over 12 1/2 hours! The trip should've taken 6 hours...but...we hit New York City traffic and that morphed into a 27 mile back-up due to an accident on 95. We sat for almost two hours in the NYC traffic, and then another 3 hours in the accident back-up. We were beside ourselves tired. Kate, however, did a magnificent job. She really only fussed the last half hour of the trip...and who wouldn't fuss after being in a car seat that long? She slept o.k. at the hotel...in fact, the last night we were there she slept from 9:30 p.m. until 7:30 a.m.! I slept most of that as well...which was awesome!
She also did quite well being fed on the road (we had to stop each time I had to nurse her for obvious reasons, but thankfully I could slide into the back seat and feed her the solid food while she was buckled in her seat). However now that we're back, she's back on her schedule and it was a bit of a rough transition for her. We really tried to keep her on schedule yesterday, but when we put her to bed last night, she wanted nothing to do with her crib. Jon was an angel and unpacked most of our stuff, so when she kept wailing at 7:30 and then 8, I had him bring her in with me and she slept beside me until Jon came to bed. She had one crying session at 10, and then thumping and kicking...but the two of us managed to get a little sleep.
I'm beyond exhausted today, but we'll chip away at getting back to normal. After all, the laundry needs to get done, the grocery shopping, the cooking, etc. Ugh. It's going to be a busy day.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Airing it Out
For those of you who know me very very well (mom), I'm happy to report that my vomit-induced panic attacks seem to totally go away when it's Kate who's the barfer. Good to know. That's a piece of "dirty laundry" that I've now aired out. It really didn't bother me as I scrubbed the carpet and washed it off of her little outfit. And, since I'm on the subject, the baby's room now smells of regurgitated sweet potatoes and liquid vitamin. So, that'll need to be aired out too. Awesome.
Actually, I really don't think she is sick. She doesn't have a fever and was laughing and playing right before and after it happened (about 5:30 last night), and she then nursed well at 6:30 and at 12:30, so I don't think it's a bug. I just think she maybe had too much to eat and then with all the tickling right after I shoved the liquid vitamin down her little gullet, well, what else is a kid to do? It was just messy and smelly for me to clean up. Yuck. I guess it was her way of saying...."hey, you give me those nasty vitamins, mommy...here's something nasty for you...ha!"
We (I) have packed the bags and Jon is home packing the car as I type this. We leave for Boston by 10 a.m. Hopefully, Kate will be a great baby in the car...but all we can do is hope. Have a great weekend everyone!
Actually, I really don't think she is sick. She doesn't have a fever and was laughing and playing right before and after it happened (about 5:30 last night), and she then nursed well at 6:30 and at 12:30, so I don't think it's a bug. I just think she maybe had too much to eat and then with all the tickling right after I shoved the liquid vitamin down her little gullet, well, what else is a kid to do? It was just messy and smelly for me to clean up. Yuck. I guess it was her way of saying...."hey, you give me those nasty vitamins, mommy...here's something nasty for you...ha!"
We (I) have packed the bags and Jon is home packing the car as I type this. We leave for Boston by 10 a.m. Hopefully, Kate will be a great baby in the car...but all we can do is hope. Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
OMG, The List!
Oh....My....God....
We are going to the Boston area this weekend to celebrate Jon's second-cousin's graduation from high school. His entire extended family (on his mom's side) will be there and they are GREAT people. Most of them have not met Kate yet, so we are so excited to go.....HOWEVER...wow....what a lot of work it's going to be to get there.
I started making lists last week of what we need to bring and the list now spans two full pages! It's truly amazing what an 18 pound baby needs for a relatively short trip. I'm so glad we're driving!
Food, diapers, wipes, blankets, toys, meds, pacis, spoons, bowls, bottles, bibs....oy. And the list goes on...and on....and on.
I have to pack it all today so that Jon can load the car tomorrow morning while I'm at work. We're hittin' the road as soon as I get home.
Despite all the work, it's going to be great to see everyone...especially Grandma and Grandpa who haven't seen little Kate since Christmas!!!
We are going to the Boston area this weekend to celebrate Jon's second-cousin's graduation from high school. His entire extended family (on his mom's side) will be there and they are GREAT people. Most of them have not met Kate yet, so we are so excited to go.....HOWEVER...wow....what a lot of work it's going to be to get there.
I started making lists last week of what we need to bring and the list now spans two full pages! It's truly amazing what an 18 pound baby needs for a relatively short trip. I'm so glad we're driving!
Food, diapers, wipes, blankets, toys, meds, pacis, spoons, bowls, bottles, bibs....oy. And the list goes on...and on....and on.
I have to pack it all today so that Jon can load the car tomorrow morning while I'm at work. We're hittin' the road as soon as I get home.
Despite all the work, it's going to be great to see everyone...especially Grandma and Grandpa who haven't seen little Kate since Christmas!!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Yesterday
So yesterday wasn't the best day...wasn't the worst either though.
It all started with the speeding ticket on the way to work. $109 bucks and no points. Jon wasn't TOO angry...just annoyed which I was too.
Then I got my butt kicked with my trainer...it HURTS today! But actually, it was fun.
Then I had an hour to move all of my post pregnancy fat clothes out of the closet and move the skinny clothes back in (a fun hour it was).
I did nap with Kate, but it's just so busy after the nap, that it almost doesn't seem worth it.
Oh, and the propane in the grill went out in the middle of my chicken grilling. Sweet.
I also tried to give Kate her first bath a-la big girl. That'd be in the tub with an infant bath ring that she sits in. We both hated it. It was so awkward to get her totally washed because the seat part of the bath ring was so slippery with the soap that she kept sliding forward. The angle I had to be at to reach her was awful and painful for me. It was next to impossible to rinse her so I ended up swishing her around and removing her half-soapy and crying from the tub. I think we're going to go back to the infant tub on the sink until she's walking. Honestly, I think it's much safer...and much easier on mommy's back.
It all started with the speeding ticket on the way to work. $109 bucks and no points. Jon wasn't TOO angry...just annoyed which I was too.
Then I got my butt kicked with my trainer...it HURTS today! But actually, it was fun.
Then I had an hour to move all of my post pregnancy fat clothes out of the closet and move the skinny clothes back in (a fun hour it was).
I did nap with Kate, but it's just so busy after the nap, that it almost doesn't seem worth it.
Oh, and the propane in the grill went out in the middle of my chicken grilling. Sweet.
I also tried to give Kate her first bath a-la big girl. That'd be in the tub with an infant bath ring that she sits in. We both hated it. It was so awkward to get her totally washed because the seat part of the bath ring was so slippery with the soap that she kept sliding forward. The angle I had to be at to reach her was awful and painful for me. It was next to impossible to rinse her so I ended up swishing her around and removing her half-soapy and crying from the tub. I think we're going to go back to the infant tub on the sink until she's walking. Honestly, I think it's much safer...and much easier on mommy's back.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Bright Lights...Big City
The good news: no points.
The not so good news: 109 bucks.
Dang.
At least the officer was nice.
The not so good news: 109 bucks.
Dang.
At least the officer was nice.
Monday, May 18, 2009
This is so wrong...
Sorry, this is so wrong...but we thought this was hilarious! See, we now go to lunch on Saturdays instead of going out to dinner. This is at "our" bar...The Lucky Dog. Since we NEVER get to sit at a bar anymore, we tried it with her. She was in a big girl high chair at first, then when she wanted to nap, we put her in her carseat in her stroller. In between, I held her for a while. I promise, we didn't give her any beer :-)
Friday, May 15, 2009
Gymboree...Level TWO!
Kate's a big girl now...she's on to level two for Gymboree. I'd heard the class was MUCH different than level one, but I had NO IDEA it would be this great! It was such fun...we hardly sat the entire class. We danced to "Rockin' Robin", played soccer, got to play on equipment, pop bubbles and play with our new little friends. What a great great great thing to do with my little one...it was such fun. We're so lucky we get to do this. In fact, in these tough financial times it's things like this that make me feel SO fortunate to have a job and to have a husband with a job so that we can provide experiences like this for our daughter. I feel for those who are impacted by this recession and hope that this all turns around soon.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Video
I wanted to add this....it was shot on Tuesday, but alas...this is my first chance to post it. Kate is sleeping right now after Gymboree. I should be too, but decided to play on the computer instead. I'll pay later. Anyway, this video is of Kate in her pack-n-play. She was quite entertained by the mesh walls.
NKOTB
For those who didn't enjoy teen years in the late 80s/early 90s...that's New Kids on the Block....but this blog isn't about the boy band (who by the way are trying to make a comeback...not sure how that's working, but they're apparently on tour this summer...whateves). Anyway, this blog entry is about our FANTASTIC street! Babies babies everywhere on Forsythia Court!
We have Kate (6 months), Logan (3 months), Lainey (18 months), and twins Max and Mason (7 months). There are two pregnant women on the street and a couple of 2, 3 and 4 year olds too! Usually at some point in the day, a big blanket is on someones lawn and all the babies hang out and see who can accumulate the biggest puddle of drool. FUN!
The most fun part? On Fridays about 4:30 or so, one of the mommies breaks out the inevitable bottle of wine. Makes for a fun end of the week for sure!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Jon and Kate
No, not the reality couple whom I've come to love and now hate because they are being media whores...I'm talking my loves...Jon and Kate.
The two of them have such a great time together each morning. What a great gift Jon has to be able to care for Kate each and every morning. He truly loves every minute of it. He sends me text messages regarding how long she slept (made "seeps"), how much she ate, and of course...how much poop if any.
This morning's text made me laugh out loud. It read: "Good, continuous seeps, good feed, only half ounce left. No poop, but more funny puff farting."
Gotta love a man who gets a kick out of his baby's gas. That's true love.
The two of them have such a great time together each morning. What a great gift Jon has to be able to care for Kate each and every morning. He truly loves every minute of it. He sends me text messages regarding how long she slept (made "seeps"), how much she ate, and of course...how much poop if any.
This morning's text made me laugh out loud. It read: "Good, continuous seeps, good feed, only half ounce left. No poop, but more funny puff farting."
Gotta love a man who gets a kick out of his baby's gas. That's true love.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
I haven't blogged much about Facebook, and to be honest, the days I don't blog are the days when I'm too involved in the crack that is Facebook to write an entry for the day...so I feel it's necessary to cross the two worlds.
I joined Facebook in January while I was still on maternity leave so that I could get in touch with my high school classmates because our 20 year reunion is this summer (yes..I realize that I am old). I thought I'd quietly enter the world of social networking, but four months and 351 friends later, I realize that I've created a monster. It's actually been fun re-connecting with people from EVER aspect of my life. From Interlochen, to high school to New Mexico and Toledo...and I've even re-connected with kids for whom I used to babysit...who are now grown-ups too. It's this latter contact that has been really cool. See, a girl I sat for as a teen is now grown up and married and she has a baby who is two months older than Kate. So, we've exchanged many parenting/new-mommy tips and it has been GREAT! She is even loaning us a car seat for Kate when we travel to Ann Arbor. Now I won't have to worry about carrying the stroller, car seat, the car seat base the diaper bag and oh yeah, Kate when I fly by myself for Kate's first flight. This is a huge huge huge help, so thanks, Leah!
I've re-connected with some of the best friends I've ever made (Vicky) and unfortunately lost contact with. I've also been able to see what everyone is up to with pictures and words. Social networking isn't for everyone, but for me, it's been a glimpse into the past that has been loads of fun. Thanks, Facebook!
I joined Facebook in January while I was still on maternity leave so that I could get in touch with my high school classmates because our 20 year reunion is this summer (yes..I realize that I am old). I thought I'd quietly enter the world of social networking, but four months and 351 friends later, I realize that I've created a monster. It's actually been fun re-connecting with people from EVER aspect of my life. From Interlochen, to high school to New Mexico and Toledo...and I've even re-connected with kids for whom I used to babysit...who are now grown-ups too. It's this latter contact that has been really cool. See, a girl I sat for as a teen is now grown up and married and she has a baby who is two months older than Kate. So, we've exchanged many parenting/new-mommy tips and it has been GREAT! She is even loaning us a car seat for Kate when we travel to Ann Arbor. Now I won't have to worry about carrying the stroller, car seat, the car seat base the diaper bag and oh yeah, Kate when I fly by myself for Kate's first flight. This is a huge huge huge help, so thanks, Leah!
I've re-connected with some of the best friends I've ever made (Vicky) and unfortunately lost contact with. I've also been able to see what everyone is up to with pictures and words. Social networking isn't for everyone, but for me, it's been a glimpse into the past that has been loads of fun. Thanks, Facebook!
Monday, May 11, 2009
A Great Day!
As you all know, yesterday was my first Mother's Day...and it was nothing short of perfection! Kate and I started the day with an early morning 4 mile walk. I had her in the baby bjorn so I could snuggle with her while we walked. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and it was a stunning morning. We had a great time and it was a great way to start Mother's Day.
Then, we got all dressed up and Kate and Jon took me to The Four Seasons for brunch. It was simply elegant and lovely and Kate was so good the entire time. At the END of our time there, our server came over and commented on how good and quiet she was...it was just funny that he waited until the end to say something...and it was a LONG brunch. Our good little girl!
I am so lucky to be a mommy!
Friday, May 8, 2009
A Public Thank You
I don't typically blog on the weekends, so I'll take this time to say a public thank you.
As my first Mother's Day draws near, I can't help but think of how much my life has changed since becoming a mother...and I have my mom to thank for molding me into the mom that I am today. She was there during the first few weeks of Kate's life and helped me through the fear of my C-section, the initial searing pain of nursing and the joys of nurturing. To imagine that she went through all of these things when I was born (minus the C-section...but kudos to her for pushing all 9 lbs. 2 oz. of me out), and then took the time and care to be with me as I went through all of these things with Kate leaves me beside myself with love, respect and gratitude for her. When you think about all of the things we moms go through for our children, it's truly amazing, and my mom's unconditional love for me is now what I feel for Kate. I can only hope that I will be a fraction of the mother to Kate as my mom is to me. I'm proud to call her my true best friend. So thank you mom, and Happy Mother's Day.
A friend of mine printed out a little story and brought it to me the other day. I will now re-type it so I can share it with all of you...so the following story is not mine, nor are the words, but the sentiment needed to be shared....enjoy.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A MOM
We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of starting a family. "We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think we should have a baby?"
"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.
"I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."
But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable. I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "what if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die. I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "MOM!", will cause her to drop a souffle or her best crystal without a moment's hesitation.
I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going to an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.
I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.
Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give herself up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs. I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor.
My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, and not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would not find very romantic.
I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving. I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.
My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across that table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings.
As my first Mother's Day draws near, I can't help but think of how much my life has changed since becoming a mother...and I have my mom to thank for molding me into the mom that I am today. She was there during the first few weeks of Kate's life and helped me through the fear of my C-section, the initial searing pain of nursing and the joys of nurturing. To imagine that she went through all of these things when I was born (minus the C-section...but kudos to her for pushing all 9 lbs. 2 oz. of me out), and then took the time and care to be with me as I went through all of these things with Kate leaves me beside myself with love, respect and gratitude for her. When you think about all of the things we moms go through for our children, it's truly amazing, and my mom's unconditional love for me is now what I feel for Kate. I can only hope that I will be a fraction of the mother to Kate as my mom is to me. I'm proud to call her my true best friend. So thank you mom, and Happy Mother's Day.
A friend of mine printed out a little story and brought it to me the other day. I will now re-type it so I can share it with all of you...so the following story is not mine, nor are the words, but the sentiment needed to be shared....enjoy.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A MOM
We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of starting a family. "We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think we should have a baby?"
"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.
"I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."
But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable. I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "what if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die. I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "MOM!", will cause her to drop a souffle or her best crystal without a moment's hesitation.
I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going to an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.
I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.
Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give herself up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs. I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor.
My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, and not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would not find very romantic.
I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving. I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.
My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across that table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
What Could Be Better?
I know, I know...I get up for work at an INSANE hour...yadda yadda yadda...whatever. But honestly, what on EARTH could be better than feeding your almost sleeping baby before you go into work and then holding her extra long because of a thunderstorm outside? Seriously...nothing is better.
An awesome way to start the day! Happy Thursday, everyone!
An awesome way to start the day! Happy Thursday, everyone!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Down the Drain
An unbelievable tragedy happened yesterday.
About 5 yesterday afternoon, I went into the garage to fetch bottles of water for our lunches and discovered....the freezer door was WIDE OPEN. Every ounce of breast milk that I had so painstakingly stored over the last 4 months was melted, warm and ruined. I was DEVASTATED.
This is an older refrigerator/freezer that I hated in our kitchen, so we bought a new fridge so we could have a garage fridge (great for beer storage, by the way). I've noticed before that you really have to make sure that the doors are closed tightly or they'll fly open. I guess in the hustle and bustle of daily life the last few days, one of us didn't securely close the freezer door, and the inevitable happened. Not sure who actually did it...it could've been either of us, and frankly the whodunit isn't important. We just now have no reserves. And...I have lost HOURS of work.
The good news is that we have rarely needed to use this frozen milk...but from time to time we have, and it's been nice knowing it was there.
It's done, it's over...I won't continue to cry over ruined milk.
About 5 yesterday afternoon, I went into the garage to fetch bottles of water for our lunches and discovered....the freezer door was WIDE OPEN. Every ounce of breast milk that I had so painstakingly stored over the last 4 months was melted, warm and ruined. I was DEVASTATED.
This is an older refrigerator/freezer that I hated in our kitchen, so we bought a new fridge so we could have a garage fridge (great for beer storage, by the way). I've noticed before that you really have to make sure that the doors are closed tightly or they'll fly open. I guess in the hustle and bustle of daily life the last few days, one of us didn't securely close the freezer door, and the inevitable happened. Not sure who actually did it...it could've been either of us, and frankly the whodunit isn't important. We just now have no reserves. And...I have lost HOURS of work.
The good news is that we have rarely needed to use this frozen milk...but from time to time we have, and it's been nice knowing it was there.
It's done, it's over...I won't continue to cry over ruined milk.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Check-Up
The above pictures are of Kate enjoying her new big girl high chair and of her learning to sit by herself. She sure is growing up before our very eyes.
Yesterday she had her six month check-up. It's such fun going to the doctor. I just love seeing how much she weighs and how tall she is...loads of fun. She now weighs 16 1/2 pounds which keeps her right on track in the 75th percentile. Her height remains in the 100th percentile at 28 3/4"! She has a very long torso and will probably be taller than me!
She did very well with her shots, and for the third time only whimpering for a quick second when she got one of her shots (it's the kind that hurts when the vaccine goes into her little body...not the needle). Naturally, I had a LONG list of questions...and all of her little issues are normal. We've started two-a-day solid feedings which has been fun in her big girl chair. She has a fruit and a veggie in the morning, and then a fruit, a veggie and oatmeal cereal in the evening. It's really helping with the sleeping through the night...although the thumping of her legs continues. I'm going to try to get video of this as it is HILARIOUS!
It's raining again today...which now that Kate loves being outside...makes it sad that we have to stay in...but, we have Gymboree today...our last class with the little ones. We move to the 6-9 month group next week!
Have a great day!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Six Months of Heaven
It's been six months. SIX MONTHS! Our baby girl is 1/2 a year old and we couldn't be more proud. While the ENTIRE six months has been bliss, here are some highlights:
NOVEMBER:
-textbook birth: although her breech position caused me to have a c-section, it couldn't have been more perfect. I was wheeled into the OR right on time at noon sharp. Kate was born at 12:24 and at 12:45 p.m. I was being wheeled out of the OR into my room. By 12:50, she had latched on, and my love for this child hit a level I never knew existed.
-a smooth transition home...
-we realized we had a non-fussy baby
-my mom staying with us to help me out...I'll never forget that...thanks mom...I couldn't have survived without you.
DECEMBER:
-our first roadtrip with the baby...and...she DIDN'T UTTER A PEEP THE WHOLE WAY TO MICHIGAN!!!!!
-staying in the hotel on the way to Michigan...Jon and I taking turns going to pick up food and having drinks and watching playoff football
-getting to spend Christmas with my family AND Jon's parents...an amazing treat!
JANUARY:
-preparing to go back to work...wondering how I'd ever be able to leave this baby
-the first week back to work....grueling, but the 1 a.m. feedings were blissful
-taking Kate to see Daddy at Channel 6
-Having our first babysitter!
-Started REALLY smiling
FEBRUARY:
-Kate rolled over early
-Got to put her in the Bjorn facing forward
-She started THUMPING her legs at night...which she still does!
MARCH:
-Kate got her first tooth! It was also a night when we had an event to go to and a babysitter planned. We didn't go...and probably not the first event we'll cancel because of her...we didn't mind at all!
-Started feeding her solids...rice cereal, veggies and fruits!
APRIL:
-Got her first pictures taken
-Her first Easter
-Started laughing...like really laughing...full belly laughs. It's the best sound we've ever heard.
-Started talking...a lot....hmmmmm, just like mommy!
-Sitting up, almost unassisted!
MAY:
-Started putting her arms around our necks when we carry her...a great feeling.
The above are just a very few of the highlights, however I know I speak for both of us when I say the last six months have been unlike any other six months we've ever had. We both feel a love for Kate like we've never known and are in awe of her each and every day. We are truly blessed to have such an amazing baby. She makes us want to be better people. We love her unbelievably.
So, Kate...one day when you read this, hopefully you'll know how proud your daddy and I are of you and how deeply we love you. Today's blog, sweet Kate, is for you.
NOVEMBER:
-textbook birth: although her breech position caused me to have a c-section, it couldn't have been more perfect. I was wheeled into the OR right on time at noon sharp. Kate was born at 12:24 and at 12:45 p.m. I was being wheeled out of the OR into my room. By 12:50, she had latched on, and my love for this child hit a level I never knew existed.
-a smooth transition home...
-we realized we had a non-fussy baby
-my mom staying with us to help me out...I'll never forget that...thanks mom...I couldn't have survived without you.
DECEMBER:
-our first roadtrip with the baby...and...she DIDN'T UTTER A PEEP THE WHOLE WAY TO MICHIGAN!!!!!
-staying in the hotel on the way to Michigan...Jon and I taking turns going to pick up food and having drinks and watching playoff football
-getting to spend Christmas with my family AND Jon's parents...an amazing treat!
JANUARY:
-preparing to go back to work...wondering how I'd ever be able to leave this baby
-the first week back to work....grueling, but the 1 a.m. feedings were blissful
-taking Kate to see Daddy at Channel 6
-Having our first babysitter!
-Started REALLY smiling
FEBRUARY:
-Kate rolled over early
-Got to put her in the Bjorn facing forward
-She started THUMPING her legs at night...which she still does!
MARCH:
-Kate got her first tooth! It was also a night when we had an event to go to and a babysitter planned. We didn't go...and probably not the first event we'll cancel because of her...we didn't mind at all!
-Started feeding her solids...rice cereal, veggies and fruits!
APRIL:
-Got her first pictures taken
-Her first Easter
-Started laughing...like really laughing...full belly laughs. It's the best sound we've ever heard.
-Started talking...a lot....hmmmmm, just like mommy!
-Sitting up, almost unassisted!
MAY:
-Started putting her arms around our necks when we carry her...a great feeling.
The above are just a very few of the highlights, however I know I speak for both of us when I say the last six months have been unlike any other six months we've ever had. We both feel a love for Kate like we've never known and are in awe of her each and every day. We are truly blessed to have such an amazing baby. She makes us want to be better people. We love her unbelievably.
So, Kate...one day when you read this, hopefully you'll know how proud your daddy and I are of you and how deeply we love you. Today's blog, sweet Kate, is for you.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Ready...Aim....FIRE!
Ok, so this blog is all about poop, so if ya don't wanna read it...stop now.
Kate has been having some issues in the poop department the last few weeks. She has become increasingly irregular and it has caused quite a bit of concern as of late. Last week, she pooped on Thursday and then again on Sunday. Then she pooped the next day Monday and hadn't pooped by yesterday. So, I called the doctor...because she had almost stopped eating too. The doctor suggested that I do a rectal glycerin suppository to help her out. Thankfully, Kate doesn't mind getting her temperature taken, so inserting the suppository wasn't a problem. I got it in...and then waited. I expected to wait and wait and then clean. I should've taken a picture of her room...I draped all areas with blankets so that when her poop shot out, I wouldn't be cleaning the walls. I honestly thought she'd blow through her diaper and spray the walls...but that didn't happen.
No more than FIVE MINUTES after inserting the suppository...I stood up to fold laundry (Kate was on the floor in prime pooping position) and I heard a rumble like I've never heard before...and then...sweet sweet relief! Success!
So now, she's getting prune juice for the next few days to keep her movin' and we'll be all good!
Have a great weekend!
Kate has been having some issues in the poop department the last few weeks. She has become increasingly irregular and it has caused quite a bit of concern as of late. Last week, she pooped on Thursday and then again on Sunday. Then she pooped the next day Monday and hadn't pooped by yesterday. So, I called the doctor...because she had almost stopped eating too. The doctor suggested that I do a rectal glycerin suppository to help her out. Thankfully, Kate doesn't mind getting her temperature taken, so inserting the suppository wasn't a problem. I got it in...and then waited. I expected to wait and wait and then clean. I should've taken a picture of her room...I draped all areas with blankets so that when her poop shot out, I wouldn't be cleaning the walls. I honestly thought she'd blow through her diaper and spray the walls...but that didn't happen.
No more than FIVE MINUTES after inserting the suppository...I stood up to fold laundry (Kate was on the floor in prime pooping position) and I heard a rumble like I've never heard before...and then...sweet sweet relief! Success!
So now, she's getting prune juice for the next few days to keep her movin' and we'll be all good!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
That 'Splains It
Well, that explains the odd fussiness...Kate sprouted her THIRD tooth yesterday! We stupidly never suspected that her fussiness was due to teething...but here's why: most babies get the bottom two teeth first, then the top two front teeth next. So, when she was fussing last week/over the weekend, I was feeling her gums in the top CENTER of her mouth. Had I thought a little and run my finger over her entire top gum, I would've felt the new tooth which is one of her top canines.
Getting teeth out of order is not unheard of, and because all babies develop differently, I am not alarmed. I think she's gonna look pretty funky for a while, though with her top canines and nothing in the middle...can you all say "vampire baby?"
Of course this will be SO cute, so I'll take some pictures as soon as we can see it better.
She fussed a bit last night, but I think that's 'cause she feel asleep before she got much milk last night before bed...so I fed her at 9 and again at 1. Just call me Elsie the milk cow!
Getting teeth out of order is not unheard of, and because all babies develop differently, I am not alarmed. I think she's gonna look pretty funky for a while, though with her top canines and nothing in the middle...can you all say "vampire baby?"
Of course this will be SO cute, so I'll take some pictures as soon as we can see it better.
She fussed a bit last night, but I think that's 'cause she feel asleep before she got much milk last night before bed...so I fed her at 9 and again at 1. Just call me Elsie the milk cow!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Attitude...It's All About Attitude
Really I think it is.
Since the new leaf has been turned over on Sunday (see yesterday's post), I've really not napped much, but I'm feeling happier. That...and the baby has slept for a second night in a row. She was a bit thrown off yesterday...not a lot of napping, Gymboree excitement, etc. so by about 5:30 she was pretty melty. So I decided to put her to bed early. Not really early...just about a half hour early. We had a nice warm bath and she was eating (chowing I might add) by 6 and then in bed and sleeping at 6:30. I was a bit worried that she'd be up and ready for the day at like 5 a.m., but Jon just sent me a message and confirmed that she woke just after 6 and quietly cooed in her crib until he went in to get her at 6:45. What a good little girl.
So, because she went down a little early, so did I. I just don't understand why I feel so tired today. Ahhhhhh, two and a half more days until the weekend.
Since the new leaf has been turned over on Sunday (see yesterday's post), I've really not napped much, but I'm feeling happier. That...and the baby has slept for a second night in a row. She was a bit thrown off yesterday...not a lot of napping, Gymboree excitement, etc. so by about 5:30 she was pretty melty. So I decided to put her to bed early. Not really early...just about a half hour early. We had a nice warm bath and she was eating (chowing I might add) by 6 and then in bed and sleeping at 6:30. I was a bit worried that she'd be up and ready for the day at like 5 a.m., but Jon just sent me a message and confirmed that she woke just after 6 and quietly cooed in her crib until he went in to get her at 6:45. What a good little girl.
So, because she went down a little early, so did I. I just don't understand why I feel so tired today. Ahhhhhh, two and a half more days until the weekend.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A New Leaf
I've turned over a new leaf...one that I'm not proud about having to turn over in the first place...so I'll just come out and say it.
I am going to stop getting angry at the world (including our precious baby) when my little bit of sleep gets interrupted by an awake and crying baby. I've realized that me getting angry doesn't change anything. She's still going to cry and I'll still be awake. Getting angry just adds to the discomfort. So, starting Sunday night, when she woke at 9:30 crying...I didn't get mad...I just got up and dealt with the situation, and frankly, I was able to go back to sleep faster because I wasn't all worked up. The solution to this issue would be to stop nursing and let Jon give her formula and I'm not ready for that, so I am accepting the challenge of very little sleep and I pledge to do it with more of a smile from now on.
With that said, I've also tried to prevent the 9:30 waking. I switched her meal of solids from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I think by having this meal later in the day, it helped her stay asleep last night...or so I'd like to think.
Actually, the last several weeks have been a crapshoot. We don't know what to expect. So, if I approach the madness with a lighter attitude, maybe...just maybe it will be easier.
I am going to stop getting angry at the world (including our precious baby) when my little bit of sleep gets interrupted by an awake and crying baby. I've realized that me getting angry doesn't change anything. She's still going to cry and I'll still be awake. Getting angry just adds to the discomfort. So, starting Sunday night, when she woke at 9:30 crying...I didn't get mad...I just got up and dealt with the situation, and frankly, I was able to go back to sleep faster because I wasn't all worked up. The solution to this issue would be to stop nursing and let Jon give her formula and I'm not ready for that, so I am accepting the challenge of very little sleep and I pledge to do it with more of a smile from now on.
With that said, I've also tried to prevent the 9:30 waking. I switched her meal of solids from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I think by having this meal later in the day, it helped her stay asleep last night...or so I'd like to think.
Actually, the last several weeks have been a crapshoot. We don't know what to expect. So, if I approach the madness with a lighter attitude, maybe...just maybe it will be easier.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Summer Fun!
Summer came early...we had a great weekend outside. Saturday we went to an outdoor festival at the park by our house and today...Kate took her first swim in her new pool! Soooo fun! Although, it's over 90, so we've got the air conditioning CRANKED!
Friday, April 24, 2009
A Question for Pfizer
If there is baby asprin, baby tylenol, baby orajel and baby motrin...why the hell isn't there baby ambien?
Seriously, I think Kate would be a great candidate for this. In reality, I'd never give it to her because we have only given her tylenol just a couple of times as we don't like to medicate her...but seriously, it would be nice to have that as an option.
She just isn't sleeping...consistently. She had her good nights during the week, but then again last night...whamo...she's up at 10 and stayed up for quite some time. Then Jon said she was up again wailing at 3, and again at 4 and so he brought her in and the two cuddled the rest of the night. Is it that she's hungry? I fed her at 10 and again at 12:30....could it be that she's starving again at 3 a.m.? What is UP with that?
We had plans to attend an Earthfest this morning (my friend is organizing it...so we were going to support her) and I'm scrapping that. I'd love to see Kate have a long morning nap...she's going to need it. Then this afternoon, I have a sitter coming so I can go to lunch with my two girlfriends. I'd hate to hand a screaming and fussy Kate over to Dama, so the nap this morning is going to take precedence over going to the festival.
Tonight I plan to not see Jon. Sad but true. I'm going to go to bed when Kate does like I normally do during the week and I'm planning to have a bottle ready for Jon to feed her during the night. I just need to catch up on sleep. So does he, so in the morning, I'm going to get her up, feed her and then go outside for a walk so he can sleep in.
I haven't blogged all week because it just seems repetitive to moan about my lack of sleep, so sorry dear readers.
In other...totally different news...lots of happy things this week (all of which involved spending money...why is that?).
-First, I bought my plane ticket to go to Michigan for my sister's 40th birthday in June. It'll be fun. So glad I can celebrate it with her. It will be Kate's first flight and Jon has to say here because of the DTV transition, so Kate and I will be flying alone. Any tips from other moms would help (Stephanie).
-I've also MEGA added to my spring/summer wardrobe now that I'm in the way-before-pregnancy size (GOD I love breastfeeding). I'm a little out of control, but it's such fun!
-I went to the garden store yesterday when it was windy and cold and empty. I bought four 2 cubic yard bags of topsoil and my deck ferns. This weekend when it's 85 and sunny and when everyone else and their brother is in line at the jam-packed garden store, we'll be at home getting the garden beds ready. I'm such a plan-ahead nerd.
We plan on grilling all weekend long...I'm thinking grilled pizza with jumbo prawns! Mmmm, slammin'! And...with some caught-up sleep and perhaps a margarita (light on the tequila...cuz of the whole nursing thing), I think we'll be fresh and new and rested by Monday...when the madness begins all over again.
Seriously, I think Kate would be a great candidate for this. In reality, I'd never give it to her because we have only given her tylenol just a couple of times as we don't like to medicate her...but seriously, it would be nice to have that as an option.
She just isn't sleeping...consistently. She had her good nights during the week, but then again last night...whamo...she's up at 10 and stayed up for quite some time. Then Jon said she was up again wailing at 3, and again at 4 and so he brought her in and the two cuddled the rest of the night. Is it that she's hungry? I fed her at 10 and again at 12:30....could it be that she's starving again at 3 a.m.? What is UP with that?
We had plans to attend an Earthfest this morning (my friend is organizing it...so we were going to support her) and I'm scrapping that. I'd love to see Kate have a long morning nap...she's going to need it. Then this afternoon, I have a sitter coming so I can go to lunch with my two girlfriends. I'd hate to hand a screaming and fussy Kate over to Dama, so the nap this morning is going to take precedence over going to the festival.
Tonight I plan to not see Jon. Sad but true. I'm going to go to bed when Kate does like I normally do during the week and I'm planning to have a bottle ready for Jon to feed her during the night. I just need to catch up on sleep. So does he, so in the morning, I'm going to get her up, feed her and then go outside for a walk so he can sleep in.
I haven't blogged all week because it just seems repetitive to moan about my lack of sleep, so sorry dear readers.
In other...totally different news...lots of happy things this week (all of which involved spending money...why is that?).
-First, I bought my plane ticket to go to Michigan for my sister's 40th birthday in June. It'll be fun. So glad I can celebrate it with her. It will be Kate's first flight and Jon has to say here because of the DTV transition, so Kate and I will be flying alone. Any tips from other moms would help (Stephanie).
-I've also MEGA added to my spring/summer wardrobe now that I'm in the way-before-pregnancy size (GOD I love breastfeeding). I'm a little out of control, but it's such fun!
-I went to the garden store yesterday when it was windy and cold and empty. I bought four 2 cubic yard bags of topsoil and my deck ferns. This weekend when it's 85 and sunny and when everyone else and their brother is in line at the jam-packed garden store, we'll be at home getting the garden beds ready. I'm such a plan-ahead nerd.
We plan on grilling all weekend long...I'm thinking grilled pizza with jumbo prawns! Mmmm, slammin'! And...with some caught-up sleep and perhaps a margarita (light on the tequila...cuz of the whole nursing thing), I think we'll be fresh and new and rested by Monday...when the madness begins all over again.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Little Insomniac
We are learning that Kate doesn't like to sleep. She doesn't like to nap and now, our little all-night sleeper has turned into an all-night thumper. WHAT GIVES????
Jon and I are about ready to fall over. She's been waking almost as frequently as she did when she was a newborn, and when she's "sleeping", she's thumping her legs which means she's not deeply sleeping anyway. I am a bit concerned about this lack of sleep...both for her sake and ours. Jon is up after I go to work, and before I leave, he's trying to keep her quiet so I can sleep. Last night, I got up when I heard them at 11:30...so I've been up since then. And it's only Monday. Ugh. She did, however, take short naps yesterday so there is hope in that department. Poor thing. I wish she could tell us what is bothering her.
We know that this will pass, but it was a rough weekend with not a lot of sleep, so it makes Monday all the more difficult.
Jon and I are about ready to fall over. She's been waking almost as frequently as she did when she was a newborn, and when she's "sleeping", she's thumping her legs which means she's not deeply sleeping anyway. I am a bit concerned about this lack of sleep...both for her sake and ours. Jon is up after I go to work, and before I leave, he's trying to keep her quiet so I can sleep. Last night, I got up when I heard them at 11:30...so I've been up since then. And it's only Monday. Ugh. She did, however, take short naps yesterday so there is hope in that department. Poor thing. I wish she could tell us what is bothering her.
We know that this will pass, but it was a rough weekend with not a lot of sleep, so it makes Monday all the more difficult.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The Gang
So it was beautiful outside today...finally! I'm home nursing a cold, but it was nice to get outside and hang with "the gang" Here's Kate with her little buddies. They are...twins Mason and Max and Logan. They all live on our street. Nice to have other babies around!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Gymboree!
Kate had Gymboree class today and we had a ball! Here are some shots. Mommy has a head cold so not much in the mood to write....
Monday, April 13, 2009
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Rocky!
We went to walk the Kelly Drive in Philadelphia on a wonderful sunny day...even had a picnic today. Lots of fun...and of course...we had to run "the steps!"
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
What a goofball! We were playing on the couch last evening about a half hour before we went up for bath time and she got all goofy! Silly goofy smiles, so luckily, the camera was in reach! Of course she looked like a hot mess with drool everywhere and a sweet potato stained shirt...but she was happy and having fun.
Jon and I have decided that she is going through a growth spurt right now. She woke up two of the past three nights screaming for food. She's got her bottom teeth and nothing coming in on top yet, so we know it's not teething pain...she just seemed so hungry. Heck, she even took a bottle from the babysitter yesterday...a first! She still wanted to nurse two hours later...and then two hours after that! Last night she slept very well (well, up until I left...I have no idea what's going on at home now...), so maybe the spurt is over? But...naps won't be an issue for me the next few days...my parents are coming today and while I'm over the moon happy to see them, I'm secretly more excited to have them there to watch Kate while I nap...just a little ;-)
Not a lot planned while they're here...just plenty of walks and cuddle time with Kate. Jon and I are having dinner in the city (our first since the baby) on Saturday night at a new restaurant and I can't wait. I hear they have a raw bar which I plan to gorge on! We are both so excited for a real date!!!!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
It's Come Down To This...
I just sent an e-mail to Jon. The subject: Kate's poop.
If you're asking yourself if that was really necessary, the answer...is yes. See, she ALWAYS poops every day...at least once, sometimes twice. Oddly, yesterday...no poop. I actually think that's a first. So, I wanted to warn Jon so that he should take cover if needed.
This is all because I want Kate in a non-poop stained outfit when I get home. You see, I have a hair appointment today. I...AM...DESPERATE to get my hair done. I had an appointment last Thursday, but had to cancel it because of my computer issues at work. (Oh and by the way, I haven't had my hair done since the middle of January, so it's kinda a desperate situation). So, I re-scheduled it for today. Thursdays are the only day I can go to the city for a hair appointment because we have a sitter. Well, for the first time since she's been with us, the sitter cancelled on us for today. I understand. She has a very sick kid at home...and that stuff happens. But, that doesn't change the fact that I have JET BLACK roots and split ends. Plus, I'm working at CBS this weekend and they have HD cameras, so that shiznit won't fly down there.
So last night, I made a desperate call to my wonderfully understanding hairdresser and told him I simply couldn't make it AGAIN today. He said...relax...and bring the baby. So, we're going to try. He's going to pop a couple of quick foils on my part and says he can have me done in about 45 minutes. She should be o.k. Another fly in the ointment, is that the appointment (I'm a poet and don't even know it) is at 10:30. Kate eats at 11. So, I'm getting there a little early, then I'll have to nurse her at the salon right after. What we women go through for beauty...is actually quite ugly.
So, cross your fingers for lots of reasons:
1. That Kate poops before Jon dresses her in her outfit
2. That I get a good parking spot in the city
3. That Kate sleeps at the salon
4. That Kate doesn't poop at the salon
5. That next week when my parents are here, I'll get to go back to the city to get my split ends cut....oh yeah, and some MUCH needed naps.
Peace out.
If you're asking yourself if that was really necessary, the answer...is yes. See, she ALWAYS poops every day...at least once, sometimes twice. Oddly, yesterday...no poop. I actually think that's a first. So, I wanted to warn Jon so that he should take cover if needed.
This is all because I want Kate in a non-poop stained outfit when I get home. You see, I have a hair appointment today. I...AM...DESPERATE to get my hair done. I had an appointment last Thursday, but had to cancel it because of my computer issues at work. (Oh and by the way, I haven't had my hair done since the middle of January, so it's kinda a desperate situation). So, I re-scheduled it for today. Thursdays are the only day I can go to the city for a hair appointment because we have a sitter. Well, for the first time since she's been with us, the sitter cancelled on us for today. I understand. She has a very sick kid at home...and that stuff happens. But, that doesn't change the fact that I have JET BLACK roots and split ends. Plus, I'm working at CBS this weekend and they have HD cameras, so that shiznit won't fly down there.
So last night, I made a desperate call to my wonderfully understanding hairdresser and told him I simply couldn't make it AGAIN today. He said...relax...and bring the baby. So, we're going to try. He's going to pop a couple of quick foils on my part and says he can have me done in about 45 minutes. She should be o.k. Another fly in the ointment, is that the appointment (I'm a poet and don't even know it) is at 10:30. Kate eats at 11. So, I'm getting there a little early, then I'll have to nurse her at the salon right after. What we women go through for beauty...is actually quite ugly.
So, cross your fingers for lots of reasons:
1. That Kate poops before Jon dresses her in her outfit
2. That I get a good parking spot in the city
3. That Kate sleeps at the salon
4. That Kate doesn't poop at the salon
5. That next week when my parents are here, I'll get to go back to the city to get my split ends cut....oh yeah, and some MUCH needed naps.
Peace out.
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