November New Moms

[AliKat11]

Me: Michelle, 34 (for a few more days)
DH: John, 40
DS: Ian, 7 1/2 months

I've never gotten us started before, but why not? :D

I don't really feel too much like a new mom anymore, except that I still second-guess everything I do. We're quite settled in our routine, and Ian is minutes away from crawling. He just can't seem to put the arms & legs together for more than one step. I also have another mom that thinks he's going to skip crawling altogether, as he gets in a push-up type stance and will actually walk his hands backwards in an attempt at standing, if that makes sense. Heaven help me when he's truly mobile!

This is such a fun time, as he's so interactive and playful. Our time is spent playing silling games and singing silly songs, and he just cracks up at everything! We have intermittent teething issues, but his first two teeth have made their entrance as a result. How long does it take for them to come all the way up? They've been just above the gumline for over a week now. I think 'DaDa' officially counts as his first word, as he mainly says it to DH or when DH is holding him. He's also discovered our cats and has a whole set of 'words' that he uses to talk to them, and is surprisingly gentle when we help him pet them. They are also surprisingly tolerant of this!

The only thing that's a downer at the moment is some type of cold or something that he's had for quite some time now. It got better for a week or so, but now he's up at night coughing terribly again so it's off to the pediatrician later this morning. I've put my foot down with them that he needs to be seen--I'm done waiting this out or considering this to be teething complications. It's hard to know what to do when he doesn't have a fever, is happy & playful, eats normally, sleeps normally, etc. It doesn't help that I hate my pediatrician and can't wait to change practices at open enrollment in April.

Last but not least, I'm looking forward to my inlaws arriving this afternoon! They are going to have so much fun with him, and it will be nice to have someone else distract him for the weekend and know he's still being showered with love.

Below is my current favorite picture, and I look forward to hearing how everyone else is doing!

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn201/mmorales73/PA260165.jpg

[Couperine]

Wow what a cutie you have!!!!

David's 6 1/2 months now, rolling and sprawling across the floor, and generally happy aside from those dastardly teething issues. He got the first 2 at 4 mo, and I think he's got 2 or 4 more coming - DH feels some that are usually teeth 5 and 6. Lord knows David has been off his game for a few days.

Currently he's trying to give up his morning nap, and he's being odd with bottle feeding. He was pretty regular with 6-8 oz bottles 4-5 hours apart during the day, but now he WANTS to eat all meals with us, and he winds up taking 2-3 oz at his usual daytime feedings. Today's big hit in his life was leftover chicken enchilada soup - who knew? He grabbed my spoon and had it down his mouth before I could wrestle it away. He ate more than his big brother. :) What kid wants soup over peaches, but he really doesn't seem to have a sweet tooth yet.

I got a White House Greeting for David's birth this week - you can register within one year of their birth. It comes on White House stationary with the president and first lady's computer signatures, and a patriotic welcome to our country message. You can find it by googling White House Greeting Office - I also did my parent's 50th wedding anniversary as well.

David is crashing early for his afternoon nap - no surprise, but I need to go!

[2HUNGRY!]

Nancy -- That's awesome about the White House. I just sent in DS's name. How are you feeling? Funny about David's eating. Ryan isn't a fan of peaches either, but loves green beans.

Allikat -- I hope the ped listens to you. Grrrr. I usually get told that whatever is bothering my DS is just reflux.

We're just chugging along here. I'm looking forward to the holidays with the baby. He loves the ceiling fan so much -- can't wait to see what he thinks about the Christmas tree! His other love is the kitty.

[SusanPC]

Nancy and 2HUngry--You are making me itch to start solids with Maddie. I've been reading "Super Baby Food" b/c I plan to make all of Maddie's food. She is 6 months tomorrow so maybe the pedi will give us the clear to start solids when we have her appt in the coming weeks.

AliKat--Adorable photo!!!! Such a happy looking little boy.

Me--Not much new here....Maddie is more and more fun each day. She LOVES her feet at the moment and they are always in her mouth :eek: I have been feeling like a frump these days, missing the getting up and putting on a suit everyday perhaps. So, I bought a few new things this week, got 3 inches cut off my hair last night (still at shoulders so it was getting too long for me) and my hair colored. Feel like a new person.

I think we are heading out to catch the end of the Fall color this weekend. DH has been out of town all week and got back yesterday...so happy to have him home.

Have a great weekend everyone!

[2HUNGRY!]

We have a tooth! I'm so excited!

Hi Susan. Solids are fun, but its not fun to wash prunes out of a baby's hair when you're in a hurry!:D

I've been making food too. Great deals lately on apples, so I have a freezer full! This week its pears.

[SusanPC]

A tooth, how fun! We are not there yet, despite the teething. Here are a couple of recent Maddie photos. Must get of internet and be productive! She's going to wake up soon I am sure!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa43/Susie22312/DSCF0472.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa43/Susie22312/DSCF0494.jpg

[veschke]

Cute pics!!!

Me: Rebecca (35)
DH: Dave (35)
DD: Lydia (4)
DS: JJ (10 mo)

Ups and downs.... JJ has started sleeping better than in my last update, so that's a big "hooray". He still tends to get up for a snack, but just one, and he's been going right back down afterward, none of this "must be walked around for a half hour" business he was doing for a while there. Kind of iffy on table food so far. His babbling has started to sound a lot more like talking, though we haven't been able to pick out any actual words yet. He loves to chase the cats and follows his sister everywhere.

Lydia is doing fine, though she's got a touch of diarrhea this week, which is no fun for anyone. We've had to give her some time-outs for pushing her brother, and she seems to be getting the message. She is doing a tiny bit better with food, too, though its so slowly that I just despair sometimes. Yesterday she nibbled all the buds off a piece of raw broccoli. Just one, but I guess that's something.

House hunting has been a massive source of stress this week. After figuring that things were going to slow down with the approaching holidays, one place that we had liked before came back on the market, and after a second look we decided to put an offer on it yesterday. Except that before we could do that, DH got a massive attack of cold feet and we didn't do it. Now that he's been on the phone with a bunch of people for two days, he thinks we can do it after all, but now *I* have doubts, because the numbers they're giving us are way higher than what I had allowed for. I am really starting to hate this entire process and wonder if we should just resign ourselves to renting until he goes back to work.

The holidays are coming up, and I still don't have any idea what I'm doing.

And I have to have my performance review at work next month.

But here's a picture of Lydia in her Halloween costume:

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9c0s-UkfXhQ/SQ78lW_QETI/AAAAAAAAAHE/vYiCUN8pU-M/s1600-h/IMG_1603.JPG

[tholbrook]

Those are cute babies you all have!

Since we're sharing, here's the latest of my little one:
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/081105CoolBaby-1.jpghttp://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/081026Smiley-1.jpg

Me: 33
DH: 37
DD: Maya (11 weeks on 11/10)

Oh, let's see... October just flew by, not sure where the time went. Maya is, in general, a much happier baby now, although we're still having some not-so-great days (like today). She'll fuss and act hungry, and then just play (and pull and tug on me: ouch!:mad:) when I try to feed her. Not sure if she's gassy and just wants comforted, or if she's going through a growth spurt. I'm all ears if anyone has advice! It's very frustrating, especially when she does it (latch on, pull off... latch on, pull off...) for hours on end at night. I've tried to do other things with her - walk around, back patting, swing, etc. - but she just screams until I try feeding her again. Then it starts all over. I got about 2 hours of sleep last night before I had to get up and teach a 6 a.m. yoga class. I'm not sure my instructions made much sense! :rolleyes:

But she is getting to be a lot of fun when she's happy. The smiles and cooing are the cutest thing ever! I stick out my tongue at her and she copies me - just cracks me up! :D

She's gaining weight steadily and her pediatrician was happy with her progress early this week. But she's still on the low side of what's considered normal. I'm trying not to worry... I guess someone has to be in the low end of the spectrum. I went to visit a friend of mine today who has a 2 week old baby. He weighed in at almost 10 pounds and he just looks huge next to Maya (although she's a bit longer than him).

On the plus side, her pediatrician said she is REALLY strong, so I'm pretty happy about that.

I'm really sad to see winter on the horizon. One thing I've been able to count on is that Maya really seems to enjoy being outside. This past week was just gorgeous, and we made the most of it. I'll still be able to take her outside for awhile longer, but once the ridiculously cold weather sets in, we'll have to stay inside for the most part.

[mabvt]

Me: 31 (I had to think about this for a minute, sleep deprived maybe?)
DH: 32
DS: Neal,4 weeks (5 on Monday!)

We made it through the first month basically unscathed! We had a rough 4 to 5 days where Neal would cry and want to be held for hours...he wouldn't fall asleep until 3, 4, 5...It stunk! At his dr's apts we learned that he was gaining small amounts of weight but at three weeks was not up to his birth weight. The doc suggested nursing and then trying a couple of ounces of formula. Low and behold, he slept for 2-3 hours at a time! We stopped at the office for a one month weigh in and he exceeded his birth weight by 12 ounces. Hurray!
Now we are juggling the nursing/formula feeding. There are times where he will nurse his little heart out and then times were he has no patience for it. It can be really frustrating. Even when he has a really good feeding he still wants a little formula afterwards. It can take awhile. It is also hard just knowing that apparently I am not providing enough for him. Someone posted a website about nursing awhile ago and I didn't bookmark it. Anyone remember what it was or who posted?

DH is working today (it's Sat. :() and my mom was supposed to come over for awhile but ended up staying home bc she's sick. I was really disappointed. I think we'll need to go for a walk.

It is hard to believe how much life has changed in a mere few weeks! I'll attach a picture of the little prince.

[SusanPC]

Mabvt--congrats! I am not sure what nursing website was previously posted but I have found www.kellymom.com to be very helpful during some tough times.

[veschke]

That first month is tough. Hang in there!

I had to update -- JJ took his first step last night! And this morning we put an offer on the house. There's another offer out there, so we're not getting our hopes up.

[mst]

Hi everyone! Thought I would try to throw my hat into the ring this month!

Me:34
DH:37
DD1:Ilyssa,3
DD2: Shayna 6 months

I think this might be my first time posting about Shayna. Poor thing. She is doing great, and is adorable. I am coming to terms with the fact that I just stink at getting either girl to nap. :o
So- my questions of the day. When did your kids sit up/ roll over? Shayna is still not doing either, and I am trying to gauge how behind she is. I know there is a range, but I also know that she is behind.
Shayna is a joy, and is in the cutest stage. She pretty much laughs if you look at her. And, if you try to make her laugh, she does huge belly laughs. Super cute! As much as I am a newborn fanatic, I am loving this stage!

[Lys]

this is my first time posting on this board... I have posted on the cooking boards, but not here... so here goes :)

me: 34
DH: 35
Nate: 8 months....

I feel like this is the best age so far... Nate is so engaging and interacts sooo much!!!! he loves pulling himself up from sitting to standing (then looking at mom & dad like "hey, check me out")... his favorite new game seems to be "how many pampers can I pull off the changign table while my diaper is being changed!!!!" :D His sleep is so much better now - he's been sleeping from 7:30 until about 5:30/6 most nights for the last week or so.. it's been amazing!!! what a difference! he went through a rough patch right around 6 months with his sleep, b/c he was teething like mad (5 teeth total, including an eye tooth which was killer), got his first cold, and had his 6 month imms (he doesn't handle them well after the fact - always seem to impact his sleeping)... so this last week has been a blessing.

mst - re: rolling over - nate went from his tummy to his back at about 6 months - my pedi said that they don't even look to this as a developmental milestone anymore b/c babies sleep on their backs, there is so much variety, etc. Nate's a big boy (24 lbs/ 29 inches at his 6 month physical) and my pedi explained that it's more difficult for him b/c of his size. He JUST (today!!!!) rolled from his back to his tummy. BUT he's been sitting up on his own since about 5/6 months. My pedi really stressed the variables in development - she's been wonderful (what a difference for a new mom!!!)

mabvt - re: nursing - I don't know of a website, but nate is breastfed (I still can't believe I lasted this long!!!) - I had some issues at first as well - I really looked to the lactation nurse at my ob for support and found the book :The Nursing Mothers Companion" to be really helpful - normalize a lot of what i was feeling and experiencing... best of luck with it and be proud of yourself - it's an amazing thing to breastfeed even for a day!!!

ok, so that leads to my question - Nate's doing solids andhas done really well - I make all his baby food and he has just taken to everything...I was just looking for some guidance as to what others are feeding their babies at this age and how many bottles/ nursing do you do? he seems ready to kind of drop some of his nursing times, but I am not sure.. currently his feeding looks like this:

6ish: nurses
7 AM: breakfast - whole grain waffle, cereal/ fruit/ yogurt
11 AM: 6 oz breast milk
12:30 PM: lunch - veggie/ cheese/ try to do a pasta or whole grain bread pieces
4PM: 6 oz or less of breast milk
6 PM: dinner - similar to lunch
7:15 PM: nurses, then down to bed...

any input/ advice is appreciated... I feel like this whole first year is such a guessing game!!!!

[Pony]

Hi New Moms....I love all the pictures.

I was wondering what 1 or 2 items you all have found most important in the first few weeks/months/etc.? And are the items the same for your husband or does he seem to have a favorite item that he can't live w/o?

Thanks, Michelle (soon to be New Mom)

[SusanPC]

Mst--Good to "see" you! Re: milestones, I am sure she isn't behind...all kids are different. But, to answer your question, Maddie started to roll between 4-5 months. Back to front first and now both ways, she's 6 months. She isn't sitting up yet, very wobbly and will fall back if I take my hand away. But, I have a friend with a daughter a week younger and hers has been sitting for a few weeks....I try not to compare too much. For instance, Maddie is acutely aware of her hands and feet and will pinch toys with her thumb and pointer....but is behind some of the other kids on rolling and sitting, etc.....

Michelle--Wow, time flies, huh? In the beginning I found the bouncer to be a lifesaver. I'd tote it around with me so I could shower, etc. and have maddie occupied. She hated her swing in the beginning...but I know other moms swear by the swing...hard to tell. I also loved my boppy for breastfeeding and almost wish I had two, one upstairs and one down. Also, a sling and/or bjorn was key in the first couple of months so I could carry maddie around with me...she wanted to be held constantly.

veschke- Congrats on the offer. I know how stressful the homebuying process it....good luck. And, wow, first steps. So exciting.

Question--when do kids start crawling? By 7 months?

[tholbrook]

Hey Michelle,

I'd be lost without my baby carrier ... I have a few different ones but the ring sling (coincidentally, a "Maya Wrap") is my favorite. I can almost always get her calm, and 99% of the time, she goes to sleep. Only tummy-to-tummy, though - I never got the hang of the cradle carry. The other favorite is the Mai Tai wrap. Between the two, I very rarely use a stroller or her infant seat for carrying her around. Plus I can carry her around the house and get some things done. The Maya wrap is mostly my thing, while DH prefers the other (although she usually doesn't sleep for him).

We have both a bouncy seat and a swing. Right now, only the swing (in combination with a hair dryer :rolleyes:) does us any good. And it works the opposite - magic for DH and not so much for me.

Not that it helps calm the baby, but I love having a mirror on the backseat headrest of my car so I can see her while I'm driving.

[Delanl]

Hi all! Didn't get a chance to post in October, so I am going to try and do better this month. Love all the pictures!

Kylie will be 9 months old on Tuesday and wow, does time fly! She is doing great, crawling everywhere and chatting away. She says "momma" all the time, which I just love, not sure if she knows what she's saying, but I love it anyway! :) She is doing great with baby food, but has a hard time if I give her any "real" food, she gags and coughs when she trys to swallow. Think its a texture thing, so we are working on that. She loves Gerber puffs and Cherrios though. As for challenges, she hasn't been pulling up much on anything and hasn't pulled herself into a sitting position yet. I am trying my best not to compare, but plan to ask her pedi about it at her nine month check-up. My MIL is still watching her along with my mom and sister who take half-days on Tuesday & Friday. Its working out great and we are able to prolong daycare until she is at least one years old, which I am thrilled about.

Lys-I had similar questions about Kylie's feeding schedule a few months ago, as I felt the same way as you. She eats lunch (cereal & fruit) and dinner (cereal & veggie/protein) along with 5 6oz. bottles throughout the day. I think I need to change this up and maybe add breakfast and reduce her amount of formula since she is getting older. Oy. It is so confusing, isn't?? Sorry, I'm not much help!!:o

Pony-I'm not sure what month you are due, but Kylie was born in February and we LOVED the JJ Cole Bundle Me. It came in really handy for us whenever we had to take her somewhere during those first cold months. Also, we loved the Swaddle Me blankets and Kylie loved them too! That's all she slept in for the first five months. Good luck!

Mst-I think Kylie rolled over around 5 months and was sitting on her own at 6 months. Try not to worry, every baby is different (I should take my own advice, huh? ;))

Think I finally figured out how to post a picture. Here is my little strawberry on Halloween and pic of her acting silly. :)

637638

[Megan James]

Nursing websites:

kellymom.com
askdrsears.com
http://www.lalecheleague.org/

Also babycenter.com has some decent nursing information though you have to search a bit. I'd reccommend looking at the forums on these websites too as they can be helpful.

[Kerri]

Me: 32
DH: 33
DS1: 2, James
DS2: 5 months tomorrow, Andy

Here is a picture:

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o79/wirrek/october2008/DSC03075.jpg

I love hearing the stories about the 8 month stage. We are definately doing better than we were a couple of months ago, but it is still a struggle. We actually had Andy baptized this morning. It went well considering he has a bad case of diaper rash and has been inconsolable. He cried, but all babies do, right?

He is rolling over (back to front) like crazy, and can roll over front to back on occation.

Tholbrook - Pulling on and off...sounds like a nursing strike we had a few weeks ago. It only lasted about a day, but it was pretty frustrating. Chalk it up to you baby is become more aware of the world and the last thing they want to do is be latched onto you. I hope things are better now. We have had lots of struggles with the feeding lately...both breast and bottle, I am determined to hand on with the breastfeeding until 6 months. Only one month to go!

Pony - My two favorites: sheet saver and a bouncy ball. The sheet savers are these pads you can get a BRU so when you baby has a blow out or spits up in the middle of the night, you don't have to change the sheets...just replace the pad. The bouncy ball is just one of those excercise ball. You sit on it while cradling your baby and bounce up and down. I mean, you can walk the halls if you want, but this was you can at least sit down and watch tv. I also got a lot of use out of my ring sling and maya wrap.

Hang it there mabvt - it starts to get better about 6 weeks.

[mabvt]

Thanks for the support on the first weeks and nursing websites!

I don't have a lot of time right now.

A few items that (in my limited experience) we really like:

We have a touch lamp in Neal's room. It was cheap (like 30 bucks) from Target and it is great for the middle of the night when arms are full of baby.
Bouncy seat (we have the Boppy one that makes white noise. Love it!)
The Dwell Studio flannel receiving blankets from Target are great for swaddling bc they don't slip.
A white noise machine is good if you don't want to use a hair drier. :)

[2HUNGRY!]

Anyone else having trouble logging in? I think they changed this to a secure site? Anyway, I have a few quick things for Pony:

-- We loved the infant carrier. My DS wanted to be held all of the time for the first 6 weeks or so and this let me move around a bit

-- I liked gowns for night time PJs. It made diaper changing easier.

-- Baby oil helped clean his bottom for those first few days of nasty poops. Sorry I had to go there, but you asked!

-- Night light. I think it helped at night to be able to keep it as dark as possible at night for getting him back to sleep

-- A good swaddle cloth. We used the velcro ones, and a nice big gerber one we bought at Target. The regular blankets that you get as gifts do nothing.

They don't need a lot right away. I would make sure you have the stuff that you need though -- heavy duty pads, tucks pads, laninosh (sp?), etc. Its hard to get to the store at first.

[Pony]

THANK YOU! Making my list :D

Kerri-I never thought of using a bouncy ball! I love that idea. Do you also have a rocker/glider/recliner that the boys liked being in?

Thanks everyone,
Michelle

[SusanPC]

Michelle, not Kerri but wanted to chime in on rockers. I have the below swivel rocker in Maddie's room (not that print) from The Best Chair Company. It is the MOST COMFORTABLE chair on the face of the earth. I want to get one for my sitting room....

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa43/Susie22312/SwivelChairRocker.jpg

[AliKat11]

I love all the pictures! Such cute little ones we all have. :D

mabvt--I went through something very similar with DS when he first came home so this is bringing back teary memories. BF'ing just didn't work out the way I'd hoped, and I was a crying wreck those first few weeks when I couldn't get him to gain, and when I was sure he'd gained, the scale would tell me he was still going the other way. I've never felt like such a failure in my life. It was humbling to give in and start formula, but he started gaining like crazy and I would still bottle feed him in our special place in his nursery, so I made sure I still got the bonding time I craved. My pediatrician was awesome--he assured me that Ian would get bigger because he'd never had a baby let him down yet. Hugs to you for having to deal with this but I promise it will get better.

pony--you got some great suggestions. The only thing I would add that was a lifesaver for me was The Snuzzler (http://www.kiddopotamus.com/p_snuzz.php). It made such a difference in helping him fit into and be comfortable in his car seat, which was the only place he wanted to be for the first couple of months.

[lbd]

Can't believe it's already the 10th and I'm only just checking in.

Me: 34
DH: 36
DS: Ben, 2 1/2
DD: Abby, 5 weeks tomorrow!!

Wow! Fastest and slowest 5 weeks of my life. It is definitely harder this go-around, at least in part because of the very active toddler wanting lots of time and attention in addition to the crying newborn. Actually, Ben has been incredible with his new sister, begin generally patient with her feedings and my limited abilities during them. Which is good because she eats A LOT!

Speaking of which, she's starting to root again so this will be short. I wanted to ask about people's experience with reflux and heartburn. Abby is far more demanding than Ben was, always wanted to be held and usually screaming full-bore within minutes of being put down (unless totally deeply asleep at the time). Picking her up usually calms her immediately. This has gotten a little better of the last week but she also seems to fuss a great deal while she's being held (not the full-on crying/screaming but restless fussing). We talked about it at her one month checkup and the ped thought it might be heartburn/reflux causing the crying when we set her down either flat or reclined. She spits up but it's mostly in conjunction with her frequent hiccuping, but the ped said said it wouldn't necessarily result in spit up. We have a prescription for Zantac but I'm leery about medicating if she's not actually having reflux. I would really really like for her to stop crying so often and stop needing to be held constantly. Don't get me wrong, I love holding her. I just can't do it 24/7. Does this sound like reflux? Is she just a fussy baby that will eventually grow out of it (hopefully before I totally lose my mind)?

[ellery]

delurking for Lorien -

Your description of Abby sounds just like Danny at that age and he was diagnosed with reflux. We tried the Zantac and it made a little bit of a difference, but then tried Prevacid and it helped tremendously. I know another mom whose baby was on both the Prevacid and Mylanta (I think it was Mylanta) because the reflux was so bad. Reflux is SO miserable for the little ones that I think being upright and held by mom are the only things that help.

I'm not pushing meds or anything, just sharing my experience. :)

[tholbrook]

At his dr's apts we learned that he was gaining small amounts of weight but at three weeks was not up to his birth weight. ... It is also hard just knowing that apparently I am not providing enough for him. Someone posted a website about nursing awhile ago and I didn't bookmark it. Anyone remember what it was or who posted? It took Maya 3+ weeks to get back to her birth weight too. I had never been so discouraged in my life. I wholeheartedly second the recommendation for kellymom.com - this page (http://www.kellymom.com/bf/supply/index.html) has great info on increasing supply as well as "troubleshooting" various issues.

Does this sound like reflux? Is she just a fussy baby that will eventually grow out of it (hopefully before I totally lose my mind)? Hi Lorien - I feel your pain! :( Your Abby sounds like Maya. We did the Zantac thing for a short time, but it didn't have much of an effect. She did start getting better around the 6-7 week mark. She's still a high-needs baby so I spend a LOT of time holding her, but at least we're past the constant screaming (or so it seemed :o) for the most part. I found the Dr. Sears books and website to be good in terms of encouragement and advice for fussy babies.

[veschke]

After a good sleeping week we are back to him waking up a lot at night, and it's coincided with the temperature drop here, so I think it's mainly that he's cold. He did much better last night once we brought him in with us and he could snuggle up (though he did wake up and call for mama at 5:30 as I was about to leave for work... timing, kid!).

How do you keep your little ones warm at night? He's got his fleecy sleepers and a light blanket - I don't like to put anything too heavy on him by way of coverings, obviously. Do they make those little sleeping bag type things big enough to fit a boy wearing 12-18 month clothes?

Should find out today if our offer on the house was accepted. Bleah, waiting!

[Couperine]

I typed up such a detailed response yesterday and the site stopped loading for me - I managed to copy it before the site stopped showing up, so here it is, albeit a little behind the posts. :)

2Hungry - Congrats on the tooth! Is the other one in yet?

Susan - I made baby food for Ethan, but it was generally pureed veggies and fruits. We started David on solids because he wanted them so badly, so hopefully Maddie's ped will give her the go ahead at her check-up. As to when they crawl, it's quite variable. David's been very mobile, rolling and flipping and doing a commando-crawl at times, but he's not doing the usual crawling yet. Ethan was doing it by this age. Some kids never crawl and go straight to walking - I bet your pedi will say Maddie well within normal limits. :)

veshcke - Congrats on JJ's first steps and making an offer on the house!! Hopefully it's accepted - if it were my old house, you'd be accepted in no time flat. I'm glad to hear he's sleeping better too - you sure have a lot on your plate right now! We use fleece sleepers here, but we're warmer than you I believe.

mst - Great to hear from you!! Shayna is probably doing just fine - David can sit up unassisted for 2-3 minutes without reaching for something and falling over, but this is something within the past week (though we did start on short trips in the shopping cart last month). He likes being mobile too much to sit for long. How is Ilyssa getting along with Shayna?

Lys - Welcome! Your feeding schedule looks great - Nate sounds like he's right on track. We eat a lot of oatmeal here for breakfast, but they don't self-feed oatmeal too well. :)

tholbrook - Is Maya doing any better staying latched? It's such a pain when they don't stay put, and I'm sure you are sore and tired.

mabvt - Congrats on making it through the first month - it's so tiring; I still don't recall much of the first 6 weeks after David was born. Here's my experience with breast-feeding - I was a total milk cow mama for my first, Ethan; nursed him exclusively until he weaned himself just before his 1st birthday. I was doing just as well with David until my milk supply stopped (now I know it's because I was pregnant, but man I was so upset about nursing). He was miserable about a week - DH and I took a vacation leaving David with my in-laws and a bottle; he did SO well and he was so happy. When I got back, David was generally so much happier with the bottle that I've stopped completely - he would get so mad about the breastmilk stopping that feedings were stressful instead of a bonding time. I'd breastfeed if I could make David completely happy, but I can't, not even for a small feeding. Our whole family can feed him bottles, and they all get a chance to bond with him. It's been wonderful seeing how much pleasure they take in something so simple as a feeding. There's a lot of positive information on how to increase your supply, but your baby will be healthy and happy with formula too. :)

Kerri - congratulations on making it through the baptism with your sanity intact! Andy looks adorable.

lbd - Welcome and congrats on making it through the hardest weeks! I'd try the medicines to see if they help - nothing lost if they do work, and you can stop if they don't. Just be sure to ask how long your baby needs to take the med before it starts working - I know some meds take a few days to hit a regular working load in the body.

Pony (Michelle) - I loved my Boppy for breastfeeding, and I liked the bouncy seat for the early months. The thing that made me happiest after my second baby was an awesome diaper bag that didn't look like a piece of carry-on luggage. I got this http://www.storksak.com/product.php?shopprodid=40 ; it was a splurge but I don't feel like everyone on the planet thinks that my purse is a diaper bag. I adore it and it's my absolute favorite thing I bought for my second baby. You will be carrying a diaper bag for 3 years per child - better love your bag!

Tomorrow I go to the OB to get the vaginal ultrasound of my baby bean - I hope it looks good, and I hope they can pinpoint better the due date from what they see. I have to admit, I'm terrified of ending up on bedrest again, but we'll cross that bridge when we get there. Hopefully all looks well tomorrow! (now today!)

[lbd]

Thanks for all the feedback on reflux! It sounds like her "symptoms" are reflux-like, which is reassuring. It may sound like I don't trust my ped which is not at all the case, it's just that we're still relatively new with her and this is the first illness-type thing we've dealt with, so I don't know yet how quick she'll move to intervention. I'm not against drugs when necessary (whereas DH would rather suffer than take an advil) but it's so hard when she can't tell us what the problem is. Is it pain or unhappiness? I just don't know. So we'll give the Zantac for several days and see if we can see any improvement in the screaming. Part of my hesitation is the uncertainty of whether any improvement we see is a result of the medicine or just her getting a bit older and therefore calmer. The doc did mention stronger meds like Prevacid if the Zantac doesn't work and I guess I'm hesitant to do that if it's not actually reflux.

Veschke - they do make larger sleepsacks. Ben's clothes are all over the size chart but I think he's about 34 inches and 25 pounds; the sleepsack we currently use for him (when DH remembers it) is either 12-18 month or 18-24 month. They do make toddler ones that have little PJ feet at the bottom corners, we haven't gotten one but someone on the BB mentioned them a while ago as useful. Any news on the house?

The other interesting part of Abby's checkup last week was learning that she's in the 75th percentile for length and 99th for weight. Yikes! :eek: Her brother's in the 10th for height an less than 3rd (ie, totally off the chart) for weight. At this rate, she's going to outweigh him in a couple of months. ;)

I can't think of much to add to the list of must-haves. I keep the Boppy by my bed and use it for all nighttime nursings, during the day I use throw pillows or sit in chairs with comfy arms. I agree that some blankets sold for swaddling aren't very useful but if you can find large square ones (or even just fabric), they work well without having to shell out for the swaddleme-type things. I'd recommend having some nursing pads on hand if you're trying nursing so you don't end up with milk-soaked clothes, I've had much better luck with Lansinoh than Gerber. The Gerber ones seem to repel liquid rather than absorb it.

[ellery]

Thanks for all the feedback on reflux! It sounds like her "symptoms" are reflux-like, which is reassuring. It may sound like I don't trust my ped which is not at all the case, it's just that we're still relatively new with her and this is the first illness-type thing we've dealt with, so I don't know yet how quick she'll move to intervention. I'm not against drugs when necessary (whereas DH would rather suffer than take an advil) but it's so hard when she can't tell us what the problem is. Is it pain or unhappiness? I just don't know. So we'll give the Zantac for several days and see if we can see any improvement in the screaming. Part of my hesitation is the uncertainty of whether any improvement we see is a result of the medicine or just her getting a bit older and therefore calmer. The doc did mention stronger meds like Prevacid if the Zantac doesn't work and I guess I'm hesitant to do that if it's not actually reflux.



Again, totally not pushing meds here. ;) The good thing about Prevacid or Zantac is that (from my understanding) they only stay in their system about 12 hours, so it's not like a more serious medicine that needs time to reach therapeutic levels. My son was colic-y on top of having AR, so I feel you on not knowing what is what. What the medicine helped with was his obvious discomfort after meals - he still spit up a lot, but it no longer seemed to bother him. He was also able to lie down more comfortably (as in, no longer needed to sleep on mom ALL THE TIME) and he started gaining weight better. His reflux seemed to get better around 6 months or so, which according to what I've read and the doctor told me, is when their esophagus matures and things go down and stay down better. Up until that point, though, he still slept at night in his swing - the angle seemed to work best for him.

Okay, I'll go back to lurking now. ;)

Leah

[Megan James]

Lorien We just recently started on Zantac for Will and it's definately helped. I was pretty resistant to start it for him even though we used it with Rebecca and it made a difference with her. Will would eat, start to fall asleep and then suddenly scrunch up his face and really start to cry. Then a few minutes later he would be calmed down, start to fall asleep, then scrunch up his face....etc. We've been doing Zantac for 2 weeks and I've definately noticed a huge difference. He's still a higher needs baby and likes to be picked up and held most of the time but at least now it doesn't seem like he's in pain from the reflux.

I'm pretty anti-meds myself but I am really glad to use the Zantac since it's seemed to make him stop hurting. One negative is that it tastes totally nasty, and it's hard to get him to take it. The pharmacist told me there's another reflux med called Axid that supposedly tastes better.

Will has a bit of a cold and is pretty sniffly when sleeping and has to pop on and off while nursing to get a good breath.

I took him to day care today for the first time. It was pretty emotional for me. Funny b/c I've put him in "tot spot" at the gym for 6 weeks or so now but daycare just seems a lot more. He apparently cried hard for 10 minutes about an hour after I left and wouldn't take a bottle. Then he fell asleep. Poor boy :( I know it will get easier with time, it did with DD.

[veschke]

Thanks, Lorien! We'll go look for another layer he can sleep in, then. Though now he's come down with a cold. :rolleyes: Not much sleep in our place last night, he up and miserable quite a bit.

We got the house!!! We're going to do the inspection on Saturday. I spent all day yesterday alternately giddy and terrified.

[mabvt]

Good Morning Ladies--

Thanks so much for all of your kind words and advice re: BF or not...I've continued throughout this week BF about every other feeding and supplementing with bottles as needed. It's working so far. I'm trying to take it one day at a time!

All week Neal has had a really fussy time from about 11-1 a.m. By 1:30 he dozes off and sleeps normally till three or so. Last night/this morning starting at about 11 he would dozes off and then wake up twenty minutes later screaming. Then even when I held him he would scream for awhile, fall asleep midscream, I'd lay him down and we'd start all over again. I of course, felt terrible I couldn't figure out what was bugging him. Also, he's been eating a TON during this time frame. So, gas? He does have a touch of a cold...All of this nicely coincides with MIL flying in today to meet him! Of course NOW he is sleeping and has been for a couple of hours!

[LA98]

Hello ladies, I just saw the following story about Mylicon drops (formerly known in our house as the after-dinner mint ;) ) and thought I'd post it here:

Popular gas-relief drops for infants recalled
Johnson & Johnson’s 1-ounce bottles of Mylicon may contain pieces of metal
The Associated Press
updated 6:15 p.m. ET, Mon., Nov. 10, 2008
WASHINGTON - About 12,000 units of Mylicon drops to relieve gas for infants were recalled Monday because some bottles could include pieces of metal.

Johnson & Johnson-Merck Consumer Pharmaceuticals Co. recalled certain bottles of nonstaining Mylicon gas-relief dye-free drops. The recalled drops were sold in 1-ounce plastic bottles that were distributed to stores and pharmacies after Oct. 5. They were sold over the counter.

The recalled bottles are from lots SMF007 and SMF008. These numbers are printed on the bottom of the box and on the lower-left side of the sticker on each bottle.

The recall does not include any bottles of original infant’s Mylicon gas-relief products or half-ounce bottles of nonstaining Mylicon gas relief dye-free drops.

For information on how to dispose of the drops and obtain a refund or replacement, call 800-222-9435 or visit http://www.mylicon.com.

© 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27650888/wid/11915773/

[lbd]

Mylicon drops - yikes! Glad we don't have any of those but that's really scary.

MABVT - you probably know this already but if you suspect gas, feel if Neal's tummy is tight like a drum. You can also pump his legs in a bicycle kick motion to help stimulate, well, expulsion. ;) Gas is one of the things I suspected might be upsetting Abby but her tummy was always normal and I never got any results from the bike kicking.

We've been on the Zantac almost a week and I think it might be helping. I know it doesn't help that she dribbles some back out half the time, and twice has immediately spit up tons of milk that has to have brought the Zantac back up too. Megan - we have a generic that is mint-flavored, I haven't tasted it but it smells like mint extract.

Veschke - congratulations on the house!!! Very exciting - when do you close?

[veschke]

Veschke - congratulations on the house!!! Very exciting - when do you close?

12/12 *if* we go ahead with it. We did the inspection today -- the boiler is on the last toe of its last leg, and there's some plumbing issues. The latter are small individually, but plumbers' time adds up really quickly, on top of a bunch of other, relatively minor stuff.

We're going to look into replacing the oil system with gas, since it needs replacing anyway, and see how the numbers look. If they're not good, well... back to square one! This is just what you get with foreclosed places, I suppose. At least the roof, foundation, etc. are okay....

[Megan James]

Thanks for posting the recall notice LA98 I was really bummed that I bought the pink colored ones (that get on clothes and carpet and everywhere else) but I guess it was a blessing in disguise.
We use the drops much less now that we've started the Zantac. Oh and I tasted the Zantac today, GROSS, seriously why do they add nasty mint flavoring to an already nasty medicine and expect kids to like it? Maybe they are making it for the older generation who can't take pills for some reason or other.

[Kerri]

THANK YOU! Making my list :D

Kerri-I never thought of using a bouncy ball! I love that idea. Do you also have a rocker/glider/recliner that the boys liked being in?

Thanks everyone,
Michelle

Perhaps I am alone here, but while I have a swivel recliner we got at LayZBoy that I like, and is great for breastfeeding, none of these things (rocker,swings, bouncey seats, etc) do much for helping to calm an already cranky baby. I don't know, maybe it is just my kids. However, having all these things do help when you need to put your baby down, which I do often. And they cry, but that is ok.

I had intentions of writing more, but I guess my little one is up from his nap. Sigh.

[veschke]

Well, no house for us this time. We got the estimate for the work that needs to be done, and it's just too much. Going to take the holidays off and see what happens next year.

JJ is walking better every day! I guess I'll be a wobbler soon. We're looking forward to visiting relatives over the holidays, as most of them haven't seen him since May.

[SusanPC]

Hi ladies.

veschke--sorry about the house but I do believe everything happens for a reason. We had something similar happen last Dec...we had an offer in on a house we loved. Some stuff came up in the home inspection and we decided to walk away. A couple of months later, a house came on the market in a neighborhood we had been watching for 2 years but nothing had gone on the market. We were so glad for the heartache which turned into a blessing in the end. Hang in there!

Kerri--my swivel rocker doesn't really soothe Maddie, but it is so comfortable for nursing...which does soothe her. Now we read in it as well. I spent so much time in that chair in the beginning....it was *almost* as comfy as being in bed.

Nothing new here. DH on the road again this week which stinks but not new. Maddie's napping and I finally got off my lazy bum and ran on the treadmill...gotta say, it feels good now that it is over :o

[lbd]

Sorry about the house Veschke.

I have several $5 off coupons for Similac, any variety. If anyone wants them, PM me with your mailing address and I'll send them. They're good for awhile (March '09?).

[2HUNGRY!]

Veschke -- sorry about the house. That stinks.

Megan James -- How is daycare going? That's tough. I'm glad the zantac is helping, even if it does taste gross.

MST -- Ryan is 6 months next week, and rolls sometimes, and sits sometimes. Its not a given yet though. Yesterday I was able to sit him on the floor and walk away, and today when I tried he fell right over.

Lys -- I don't have any answers for you about the food, but I wanted to let you know that you are not the only one who is confused. I try to give him formula with his "meals" but it seems as if he is ready to drop some of that.

We had our first visit to the sick waiting room at the ped's yesterday. He was literally moaning in pain in his crib Sunday night and by morning he had a fever. I thought it was his teeth, but I was worried so took him in. Good news is its just his teeth. Doc think he might be getting his top ones in along with his second bottom one. Poor little guy.

[SusanPC]

2Hungry--Hope your little one is feeling better. Have any of his teeth pushed through?

How is everyone else doing? My Dh has been out of town since Sunday and gets home this afternoon. Whooo Hoooo we miss him! Maddie has been a bit fussy this week and I think I am catching something as I'm all achy and have a sour stomach....so we hunkered down yesterday and did nothing....it is amazing how Maddie's demeanor changes when she gets a nap every two hours and constant play time on the floor with mommy in between naps. We had fun chilling out yesterday and wish there was time for days like that more often. Earlier in the week we painted pottery with some friends and will use them as Christmas presents....lots of hands and feet...I think Maddie liked that part.

Well, off to pay some bills and get organized so it looks like the wheels stayed on the bus while DH was away :o

[Megan James]

Veschke Bummer about the house.

2Hungry Glad to hear it was only teeth, though it's so hard to see them in pain.

We are doing OK here. Daycare went OK yesterday. He goes again today and tomorrow and then next week it's back to work for me.
Will is just not a sound sleeper. If we get a 4 hour stretch at night we are really lucky. Then from about 4am on we won't sleep more than an hour. I think he doesn't like his diaper being at all wet, but generally just likes to be held while he sleeps. I can't blame him since it's nice to be held and snuggled, but sometimes its a little tough on his mom!

[Delanl]

Hi all.

So we had Kylie's 9 month check-up yesterday and the doctor was a bit concerned that she isn't pulling herself up to a standing position. She said if she's still not doing it at 10 months then we have to bring her in for some motor development tests. She was happy to hear that she's crawling and saying "mama, dada, nana" etc., she said hitting verbal milestones is more important than motor skills, but still something she wants to look into if Kylie hasn't progressed by next month. She is pulling up on low things, climbs over DH and I, climbs through the shelf under the coffee table, etc. But isn't reaching for anything high up yet. I really don't think anything is wrong, so we are trying not to worry, but its hard sometimes.....:(

Otherwise, she has four teeth coming in at the same time. But you would never know, she hasn't been cranky at all **knock on wood**. We are getting her Christmas pictures done on Sunday and I can't wait to see how they turn out. We plan to use a lot of them as gifts this year.

Veschke--sorry about the house. Hope you find another one soon.

SusanPC--glad your DH is home and I hope you feel better soon!

Megan--:( Get some rest!

[mabvt]

Hello ladies!

Susan--I bet you are so glad to have DH home! Mine is working overtime these days and has a half hour commute so he is gone 12 hour stretches. There are days that I can't wait for him to be home! I can't imagine several days at a time.

Veshke--What others have had about the house...A better one will come along. Ack. So stressful though.

Delanl--I just read somewhere that American moms are more driven by baby's development than anywhere else in the world. She will get there. I know, it's a lot easier to say when it's someone elses kid!

You guys were right! Neal was six weeks last week and all of the sudden life seems to be falling a bit more into place. MIL was in town for the weekend. We had a great time shopping, bumming, and baby watching.
Last night we got 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep! The night before it was four hours! Also in the past few days we have been seeing some heart melting smiles! What joy!

Last week I stopped nursing. Basically N was weaning himself and I was starting to dry up. There was the initial guilt (of course) but all parties seem much happier right now. Last night we saw a good friend of DH (and mine too). He and his W had a baby in June. Friend mentioned that his wife is a prolific milk producer and they have a freezer full in their basement. He asked (prefacing conversation with "You might think this is weird...") if we were interested in having some of her milk. I trust them absolutely in terms of the fact that she is healthy and disease free. He has been a dear friend for ten years- (tho we def. know him better than her.) Economically it is an unbelievable option. Health-wise N would be getting all of the benefits of breast milk even tho it's not mine. So the question for me is:

Is there something here we should be considering that we are not?
If we are transition from formula to breastmilk & formula is there something I should do for his little tummy?
Should I run it past N's doctor?

Discuss!

[Couperine]

Interesting question, mabvt! This article http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1612710,00.html though a different tangent, doesn't seem to say anything bad about using another woman's breastmilk aside from passing viruses. Definitely a comfort level issue there!

Delanl, everything you mentioned about what Kylie IS doing indicates that she isn't far from pulling up higher. Perhaps it's miscommunication from your ped, because what you mentioned that she can do at 9 months is great.

Megan, I hope that you are finding some tricks to get Will to sleep at night. I hestitate to mention cry-it-out, but you will be much happier with your return to work if you are rested too. CIO is hard for your first baby - I had an easier time emotionally when we had to do it with David.

Susan, how wonderful that DH is back! Christmas is so fun with a baby - Ethan used to spend hours staring and wiggling at the Christmas tree.

2Hungry - I'm sorry about the teething pain - is Ryan doing any better now?

veschke - It's too bad about the house - we've been in the same position before, and it's hard to put aside the hopes and dreams you already had for the house.

[Megan James]

MABVT If you are really accepting that she is disease free I would use the breast milk. A) It's cheaper B)It's better for your baby. I'd have a hard time REALLY being OK with the disease free thing.

Nancy I've been sort of thinking about CIO but seem much more hesitant with Will than I was with Rebecca. I'll ponder on it a bit more. I'm getting sleep but just not uninterrupted sleep. Last night I never was asleep more than 90 minutes at a time.

Today I'm having a vacation morning, both kids are at daycare. Of course I am pumping milk, doing laundry, wiping down the counter, sweeping etc. BUT I did get to enjoy a nice run outside, a long shower, and a quiet breakfast.
Monday it's back to work :eek:

[Luv to Cook]

Me: 33
DH: 35
DD1 Asha: 5
DD2 Sahana: 3
DS1 Ayaan: 3 weeks

Hi Everyone,

I finally have a moment to pop in here! So here we are in newborn land again...I forgot how exhausting it is...I should probably be napping with the two little ones down for a bit, but I finally have a moment to myself! So far I am enjoying this time around moreso than the others...I had a tough time with colic and my two other DDs. Not sure that we will escape it unscathed this time around, but Ayaan seems to be a bit calmer. If nothing, I have a bit of foresight in knowing that it will end! He does have a tougher time at night...will only sleep being held and wants to nurse constantly...we have a sidecar that I will try to get him in tonite.

Megan, sorry to hear about Will's sleep. For me CIO sucked with each kid...I know I will hate it again. We are here if you need support in whatever way you decide to get your kid to sleep!

Veschke, sorry to hear about the home. I also think everything happens for a reason. About 4 years ago we almost bought a home and then backed out last minute...waited another 3 years and just last October bought a house that we just love. Good luck.

mabvt, I am so looking forward to 5 hours of sleep! Wow!

lbd, we dealt with the reflux issues with our first DD. Not sure if it was colic that she outgrew anyways, or truly reflux, but we did Zantac and Carafate for her. Anyhow, I know there is a diagnostic test to really see if your DD has reflux...it consists of a small probe being sent down her throat to check the pH of the acid in her esophagus...no fun, I know, but another something to think about.

Delanl, I know it is hard not to worry about your DD not pulling up. But some perspective...I was talking to a friend yesterday with 3 kids...they were all late walkers, but her youngest did not walk until she was 20 months :eek:! And they are all just fine!

mst, just wanted to say hi! Your Illyssa and my Sahana were born around the same time as well! Nice to see you again!

Well, that's it for now. I hope everyone else is well :)!

Anita

[mabvt]

Megan--Just saw that you are in Kzoo and I'm in GR...I know that over the last week or so it's gotten a lot colder around here. I've been double swaddling Neal in a flannel blanket and a warmer fleecey blanket. It has corresponded with us getting more sleep. Could Will be getting cold or uncovered? It's a thought...

Luv to Cook--Good luck with the sleeping. It can be hard! Make sure you are getting your rest too!

Coup-Thanks for the article. It's an interesting situation and not one I anticipated, but I think we'll go for it!

Thanks for your answers re: the breast milk situation. Anyone else?

[tholbrook]

I had a long post typed out but somehow lost it... I'll try again later.

Just a quick post meanwhile for mabvt: yes, if it was me, I'd take your friend up on the offer in a heartbeat... particularly since you know her well.

[MomofMooch]

arrrggggghhh, I just had a really long post typed out too, also eaten. Darn!

I replied specifically to Megan--my baby Will (now 8 months) also was a super-snuggler and demanded to be held all the time the first couple months. It was torture. I finally realized he needed to be much warmer than my older son ever did (somebody else just mentioned the temperature maybe being a factor). My Will needed to be well-swaddled, extra-layered, and we just started using a space heater in his room when it got really cold. He is doing much better, so it's worth a try. It will get better in time!

I also replied to Delanl in my eaten post--I agree with Couperine, I think Kylie sounds right on track with all the crawling and climbing you are describing. I am really surprised your ped would say that. I know it's hard not to worry, but I would try not to. I may be biased, since I have late crawlers, but I really think she sounds perfectly on track developmentally!

I think I said more in my eaten post, but I can't recreate it all. Bummer. I'll try to write again another time. I think I said something about the fact that my son still needs to be nursed to sleep, which I know the experts recommend against (although once asleep, he often sleeps beautifully, up to 11 or 12 hours at night!), so I am trying to teach him how to fall asleep on his own. It is not going well. He just cries and cries, and I can't do the hard-core CIO. I've been doing a gentle modified version, and it's killing me. My older DS (now almost 3) was so easy, and I was spoiled. Karma, perhaps. I also mentioned that my DS is not at all interested in crawling yet. My DS1 didn't crawl until 10 months (walked at 14 months), and I guess my DS2 is just following in his brother's footsteps. Mellow, so happy to be sitting in one spot playing with a toy, no motivation to be mobile. I know I should enjoy it while it lasts, but I do worry sometimes. It's always something!

OK, having now posted a lengthy message not once, but twice, I am going to cut this off. I hope the BB stops eating our posts. I love this board--it's great to know I am not alone!

[Couperine]

MoM - I hadn't heard anything against babies nursing to sleep; David usually does his naps without a bottle, but at night, he likes the snuggle factor even if he takes just a couple of ounces. DS1 outgrew it as I tied nursing to meals, and it seems DS2 is on that path as well. I don't know what bedtime ritual you used with DS1, but Ethan responded well with an evening bath to get him all sleepy, a couple of board books in the rocking chair, and then some rocking and singing to relax him before I got him into bed.

Hard to know on the crawling - it's obvious that you have him on the floor, but if Will just doesn't want to do it, I guess you have to wait. It seems there's always something we worry about with our kids. :)

[Luv to Cook]

MoM, just wanted to chime in on the nurse to sleep thing...I don't know if you have read Weissbluth...but his book is our sleep bible. Anyhow, he also says what Couperine does...nursing to sleep is not a problem if your baby is able to stay asleep.

I know CIO is torture...**** near killed me with my other two. Hoping I can not have to deal with it this time around and be blessed with a better sleeper!

[MomofMooch]

Thanks for the thoughts on nursing to sleep. That is reassuring to me! I always thought that "they" (whoever "they" are) said that it was better to teach your baby how to fall asleep on his own (e.g., so they have the skill if they wake in the middle of the night), so you should always put a baby down drowsy, but awake. But, I am inclined to stick with whatever works, and the fact is, he usually sleeps great. I guess I'll worry about it again in a couple months when I start thinking about weaning him.

As for the crawling, I just try to keep telling myself that my older son was the exact same way, and it's just how my mellow babies are--not inclined to be mobile! He is sitting here next to me on the floor, playing with a mitten, babbling away happily, totally content. My former ped wasn't concerned with my first son's motor development (and his language development was always great), so I'll be curious to see what my new ped (we have moved between babies) says at Will's 9-month check-up.

OK, since I'm here again, I have a question for moms with older kids (especially if your kids are the same gender, so couperine, mst, etc) about gifts for baby. My older DS has a 12/21 birthday, and lots of relatives that spoil him (he's the first grandkid on either side), so between birthday and Christmas, he gets more toys than one could possibly imagine. It's ridiculous. So, I am trying to figure out what to get DS2 for Christmas, because we honestly don't *need* anything. Our house is jampacked with boy toys. He also doesn't need clothes. I'll definitely get new books for each of them, but does anybody have thoughts on great new baby gifts that could be just for my little guy for Christmas? Even though he's too young to understand, I want to make sure it is equally special for both my kids, but we just don't need any toys or clothes for the baby now. In this economy, it seems silly to buy new things just for the sake of buying new things, although I guess it is Christmas ... thoughts, wise moms?

[tholbrook]

Also chimimg in for Mom of Mooch for the nursing to sleep... I've been reading the Dr. Sears books on attachment parenting, and it seems like they're all for nursing to sleep for as long as needed. So I wouldn't worry about it if it works for both you and Will. I nurse Maya to sleep every night (and she also sleeps with me), and I hear a lot of "you'll be sorry eventually when she won't sleep / go to sleep by herself". I've quit telling most people when they ask ("she sleeps pretty well" is my standard answer now, unless I know the person well). But my gut feeling is that Cry-It-Out will not work for us, as she seems to be really anxious if left by herself. So I fully intend to nurse her to sleep if that's what she needs. Maya is a "super snuggler" too (I love that, MoM! Sounds so much nicer than "high needs"!) so I hold her almost constantly.

Still no time to retype the entire post that was lost, but I thought I'd share our latest developments...

My boss has been bugging me to add more hours at work, but I've been resisting since I want to be home with Maya as much as I can (and not pumping at work!). But apparently they're anxious enough to get me back that they got our customer to give her a clearance exemption (I work in a secure area), and approval from the owner of our company. So I'm taking her with me to work on Monday! :eek::) I plan to wear her in the ring sling since she's almost always REALLY good when she's in it. Hopefully it goes well because the extra money would really be nice.

[Delanl]

Thank you everyone for all the reassuring words! You have no idea how much it helps. :)

MoM-We are keeping Christmas very low-key around here as well. I have asked my parents and in-laws to skip gifts for the first year or two (since she has no clue anyway) and put money into her college fund instead. As for us, we bought her the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Kitchen (I'm already trying to turn her into a foodie!) and a few books and puzzles. We live in a townhouse and don't have the room and she will be more interested in the wrapping paper anyway! :D I did see a really cute toolbench by Fisher-Price, maybe Will would like that? Here's the link:

http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Laugh-Learn-Learning-Toolbench/dp/B0002YDPX8

Tholbrook-how cool that you can bring Maya to work!

[Kerri]

MomofMooch - Just wanted to chime in. For nighttime, we always nursed to sleep and used more sleep training/CIO for naps. (I mean, you get to a point where they are going to cry anyways, they might as well cry in their crib). DS1 is a FABULOUS sleeper. DS2, well, it is too soon to tell, but I am using the same strategy.

Also, for Christmas, DS2 is probably getting diapers and rice cereal, and whatever else I want him to get. I do understand where you are coming from, but he really doesn't care. He will have plenty of toys during Christmases when he does know what is going on, and we can choose to spoil him then.

And who was asking about their baby not pulling up until at 9 months. That is crazy. I can't believe your pediatrician even brought it up.

We have been having some tough days. Andy has his 2 teeth on the bottom, but it is looking like he is getting some more on the bottom. He has just been so cranky and you can telll he just feels miserable. I feel bad for him, I do, but I just can't take it any more!!!!

[Couperine]

MoM, we're going to get very little for David this Christmas. He won't care at all what he gets so long as he can chew the boxes, wrapping paper, and bows. :)

Ethan is getting a Fisher-Price Imaginext Bat Cave from Santa - he adores all super heroes, and with the younger lower-age limit, there are less flimsy and tiny parts. That's my main concern with toys for Ethan - since David wants to chew everything, we need to limit the tiny accessories. Ethan is ready for smaller Legos, but we're going to have to pass on those a while.

As for David, we have some enormous baby toys from Ethan's early days that we're bringing out. He's really having a great time in the exersaucer, and we brought out the LeapFrog learning drum, and he's been playing with that quite well the last few days. When David cares more about Christmas, we'll work it out!

[Delanl]

Did anyone else notice the containers of Similac powdered formula got smaller but the price is the same? I guess this is a new trend, noticed it with ice cream too. Ha. The new ergonomically designed container (by Ty Pennington...:confused:weird!) is 34oz. whereas the old container I was buying at BJ's was 36oz. Its only 2 bottles, but it really annoys me. Aren't we paying enough? Plus I NEVER EVER get coupons for Similac, but get a TON for Enfamil! Go figure.

Alright, rant over....:D Hope everyone is well!

[mabvt]

I guess they figure Ty's cute face will sell more of anything, including formula!

Neal started on Enfamil Lipil. Then DH went to Costco where the Kirkland brand (the label says, compare me to enfamil lipil) was almost half the cost of namebrand. Sheesh. It is two cans for eighteen dollars. I don't know off the top of my head how big the cans are...and I'm not going downstairs right now. But I can check if you're interested.

Delanl- I have a bunch of similac coupons...PM me your address and I'll stick them in the mail.

Little One calls.

Melissa

[AliKat11]

I found a gentle formula through Sam's Club (the Makers Mark brand) that really helped with Ian's gas and fussiness, and was around $28 per 48 oz can. I bought a ton of them at once so I don't quite remember, but they offer 4-packs on their website for $125 including shipping. They also have a regular formula that's even more economical.

[Lys]

ok, so I am checking in again.... I keep trying to post and get redirected, so this is probably going to be shorter than I originally intended...
veschke - re: sleep sacks, etc. Nate's a big boy too (8 months, 27 lbs and I have to think he is close to 30 inches) - we LOVE the sleep sacks by Cloud B - they wash really well, they are a bit heavier for the winter (the pointelle ones) and they are a good size. They don't shrink at all...

RE: stuff we couldn't live without... I could go on for days, but our "musts" with Nate -

Swaddling blankets by Swaddle Designs -www.swaddledesigns.com - we loved these blankets, washed like a dream, great size for swaddling
Bouncy seat - nate loved it!
Sleep Sheep - it's on every naptime and sleeptime, it's essentially a white noise machine (nate loves the "rain" sound)
infant carrier - ours is the one by Lascal and we LOVE it... I also had a sling by hotslings that I used a lot when Nate was a newborn... it was helpful to be able to throw him in that and get stuff done around the house, et.
ItzBeen timer - I know you can just as easily write everything down all day long, but this thing was a sanity saver for us...

other things that I loved - Majamas Nursing gown - SOOOO comfortable - I brought one to the hospital and was so happy to not have to wear the stupid johnny when people were visiting. Bravado nursing bras - love them, comfy, good fit & support

Lily Padz - nursing pads. The only ones that I found were actually worth using... love them....


on another noted, Nate's going through a new phase.... he has learned to stand from pretty much any position... which has made naptime a challenge. We put him down and within minutes he is standing up, babbling, someitmes crying, etc. Right now dh & I have been trying to get him down for a nap for about 45 minutes. He's exhausted _ I keep going in (maybe every ten minutes) - put him back down, give him his lovie and his binky, leave the room. Then it starts all over again!!! UGH! He's been a pretty good napper up until this week - he would maybe fuss for a few, but always fell asleep within a few minutes and woudl typically sleep for one or two hours. He never does this at bedtime, only naps for the last few days... any suggestions on what to do???

[Luv to Cook]

Hi Mamas...I have nothing useful to add today, but just needed a place to vent! This is the third time I have been blessed with a baby who will not sleep anywhere but my arms and who constantly wakes up to nurse (everywhere from 1-2 hours at night). Needless to say, I am tired and feeling a little resentful. So, I am not sure I want to know the answer, but do babies really go in their cribs to sleep? Can you actually put your baby down and they will stay asleep? Mine wakes up the second his body hits the bed. Anyhow, I know it won't last forever and we just need to motor through these few months and we will probably have to sleep train him like I did the other two, but I am not looking forward to it. I guess I am just frustrated because I cannot believe that I have three kids who did the SAME thing...I was so hoping for an easy baby this time around!

Lys, my oldest DD did the standing in the crib thing. I just stopped going in to lay her down and it ended much quicker. I think when you go in and lay them down, they at first think it is a game and then get frustrated eventually. Have you tried practicing with him during wake times on how to get to a seated position from standing? We did that as well.

Anita

[MomofMooch]

Hi everyone--I know I shouldn't be adding on to the November thread since it's December, but I just can't seem to muster up the energy to start a new thread. I just wanted to thank everyone again for their thoughts on my nursing to sleep question. I really appreciate it! I love how helpful this board is. As it turns out, in a frustrating sort of irony, I suppose, we are now dealing with another issue entirely--a nursing strike! He just stopped nursing on one side yesterday and stopped altogether today. He absolutely refuses to nurse, in any position, any time of day, no matter what I try. I have been reading up on nursing strikes, and it sounds as though they are fairly common and often related to teething and/or illness/colds/ear infections (although he seems totally fine and drank all his bottles at daycare today, the stinker!). So, I am pumping to keep up but getting tempted to think about weaning if it keeps up much longer. My main frustration is that I get clogged ducts really easily (had them constantly with DS1, which led me to wean him much earlier than I'd have liked, so still lots of guilt), so I am in excruciating pain (pumping doesn't clear them for me, only the baby, so he is causing me great pain by refusing to nurse!). Guess I just needed to vent. :(

Anita, you can vent here anytime about babies that need to be held constantly and won't sleep in their cribs! I think many, if not all, of us can empathize! We are finally past that stage here, so yes, it does get better, since you asked for that reassurance! My DS, who was absolutely as you describe (had to be held all the time, never, ever slept while lying down on his own) really does go down in his crib now for bedtime and stays there all night, most nights, so it will get better! But, vent here anytime!

tholbrook, how was it taking Maya to work? That sounds so fun!

Delanl, I love that you compared the packaging changes in formula to the packaging/pricing of ice cream --I don't know why, but I just found that funny! Perhaps it speaks to our state of mind as new moms -- ice cream is almost as important a food group as baby formula!

Sleep calls ...