October Infant Moms Thread

[acginkc]

Hey all. Hope all the sleeping, health and food issues that plagued everyone last month have cleared up. Beth G, are you and Michael feeling better? How are your Aunt and Dad doing? Michelle, yay for finally getting to have dairy again. Hope E has been sleeping a bit better for you. And I'm sorry about Carl's Grandpa. Heather, I was only pregnant when I moved and I still don't know that I am done being settled (it's been over a year), so you are doing great in comparison it sounds :). Sorry to hear about your dairy restrictions. Hopefully Quinn is doing better though. Beth H, how is Will feeling? Ear infections totally suck. Tami, I would have totally freaked out about finding that Matt had been sick overnight too. I hope all is better with her now.

Me: Ashley 30 (31 this month)
DH 31
Matthew 7 months (2/20)

For us...
Sleep is about the same, though we are really struggling with naps. At home we can get M down pretty easily, but we rarely get a nap longer than 45 minutes. At daycare he's apparently a social butterfly that they can hardly get to lay down and he's usually only down for 20-30 minutes. We were hopeful that we were down to just 1 wake up at night, but apparently that was a fluke. He still goes 3-4 hours, but I'd really appreciate a good night sleep.

Food is going well. He likes everything we've tried. Self feeding is going well. I don't really know how to cook veggies till really soft because I don't eat them that way, so I bought some organic no salt added canned veggies for him to feed himself. He's doing really well with that. Just not sure what we want to try next. I've decided to wait on meat till after his 9 month appt (hoping to avoid pureed meat since it kind of creeps me out). I'm thinking by then he'd be able to handle either ground meat or maybe some little bits, we'll see.

Teething seems to be on a break, though the ped said today that he's got some budding ones on top. Looks like he might be another vampire baby.

Matt is in non-stop motion these days. I can't really get anything done when I'm home alone with him because I only have 2 arms still (oh to have a few more). He's pulling up on everything and climbed up on a box the other day. Unfortunately he isn't exactly graceful yet so we are delivering lots of snuggles and kisses to our bumped up boy.

So Matt has been a little stuffy lately and yesterday started with a hacking yucky cough. DH took him to the ped this morning and they diagnosed him with an ear infection. I was dreading this and was really hoping he didn't have problems with his ears since I had chronic ear infections as a child. I felt so bad for him tonight. He was so fussy at bedtime and was just rubbing his eyes, nose, ears and throat. Hopefully the antibiotic will clear it up quickly and he'll feel better soon.

Whew. Ok. And hopefully some of the new moms from the pregnancy thread will join in this month. I sometimes miss those early months so I'd love to hear about your little ones and how you all are doing.

[tholbrook]

Ashley, thanks for getting us started this month! I can't believe we're already into October. Sorry about Matt's ear infection - I hope he starts feeling better really soon!

I'd love to hear how the new moms are doing too - this group is definitely skewed toward older babies right now!

Me: Tami, 34
DH: 38
DD: Maya, 13 months (8/25/08)

Well, I've been holding my breath for the past week ... DH has had some sort of stomach bug since last Tuesday :(. So far, Maya and I haven't gotten sick, thank goodness. But my dad (an ER doctor) thinks that DH might have the flu. I am more skeptical since I would think we'd all be sick since it is so contagious. DH and I are scheduled to get flu shots next week ... I think I'll get Maya an appointment for one ASAP.

In other news: solids are hit-or-miss. I've made her zucchini pancakes and pumpkin pancakes recently, and she shovels them in as fast as she can. And lentils are still a favorite. But if I try to give her anything that is a mixture of smooth/chunky, she lets it fall out of her mouth :confused:. And she likes to chew on crunchy things like apple slices, but spits every little piece out. But overall, she eats really well, so I guess that's all I can ask for.

Mobility - I'm with Ashley: I could use another pair - or two - of hands :cool::p. I can not leave the room for a minute because she instantly gets into something she shouldn't. But she seems to have a bit of a cautious personality, so she doesn't fall very often. But I think it is also slowing down her progress with walking. Oh well, no rush!

Sleep. Eh. It could be worse. We still have about a 5:2 ratio for good nights/bad nights. An example of a bad night: Maya woke up this morning wailing at 4:45, and would NOT go back into her crib. I finally nursed her back to sleep around 7 and she slept until 10. So I suppose I should be thankful that she does sleep for 8 hours straight, but I really don't like being awake in the wee hours of the morning. Naps are okay - could be better, could be worse! :rolleyes:

I packed up Maya's summer clothes today - and it made me so sad :o to put away all those little dresses and outfits! Her fall/winter clothes look more "toddler" than "baby".

I'll post pictures later. Have a great weekend, everyone!

[tholbrook]

Pictures...

Picking the last (forgotten) zucchini from the garden
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/090916Herehavesomezucchini.jpg

Picking apples at the orchard. This is one of my favorite pictures.
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/090919AppleOrchard06.jpg

Obligatory shot sitting in front of flowers ;)
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/090926Maya04-1.jpg

Modeling her new hat and mittens - and check out the standing! :D
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee70/turtlehouse/091004Modelingmyhat.jpg

[Sarah45]

Happy October Moms! Fall has certainly arrived in Iowa, it was chilly Saturday morning at the Farmer's Market this weekend, Jax was so cute all bundled up :)

Me & DH, 33
Jackson, 7 mo (2/24)

*crossing fingers so I don’t jinx myself* I think we have finally got this sleep thing handled. Jax is consistently going to bed at 7:15-7:30, waking once to eat, and getting up in the morning between 6:30 and 7:30. I’d really like to eliminate the night feeding but considering our issues in the past I am ECSTATIC with this progress and am happy to wait and see for right now. With the good sleep progress has also come a more consistent afternoon nap, which I love.

I find the range of development really interesting. Compared to Natalie and Matt, Jackson is behind on mobility but when we go to Mommy and Me he is definitely on the top of the pack there. Regardless, he is all over the place and keeping us on our toes. I think I am happy that we haven’t reached the real crawling and pulling up stage yet, he’s a lot to handle.

Basically Jax eats whatever we put in front of him but I am a wimp with regards to finger food. I don’t know where my hesitancy comes from but I am overcoming it. Jax loves Gerber puffs, Cheerios and cubed, roasted sweet potato - any other ideas for good finger foods to make him? I like the canned veggie idea Ashley, what variety are you buying? I did give him pieces of my whole grain pancakes this weekend he ate them.

Last week we went to get our seasonal flu shots and of course our doctor is advising the H1N1 when available but I am still on the fence about it and need to read/hear more.

Ashley – I hope that Matt is feeling better soon, my little brother had lots and lots of earaches growing up and I know they can be miserable.

Tami – I packed up the summer clothes recently too, I can’t believe how fast they are growing. That’s really weird about Maya’s refusal of chunky food but it make smile to picture her spitting out all the pieces of apple :D

[mabvt]

Sarah--Finger foods that Neal has enjoyed--
-shredded cheese (he has been known to "double fist" it)
-frozen peas nuked for about 30 seconds
-black beans
-canned peaches, diced
-there is a baby organic breakfast bar (like a nutragrain) that he likes
-saltines dipped in hummus are a big hit
-toast cut into small pieces

If I think of more I'll post- Welcome to the land of interesting diapers!

[bekki]

Some finger foods that are hits around here, although, I'm not sure they're all appropriate for a 7 month old:

Organic cereal bars (whole foods has their house brand that we like)
Pirate's Booty (cut into smaller pieces)
Toast spread with fruit puree or smooshed avocado/banana and cut up
Steamed broccoli (cut into just the spears, they pretty much fall apart in their mouths)
Baby MumMums
French toast (made with egg yolks, a little cream/milk and cinnamon)
Frozen waffles (Earth's Best makes an organic mini-waffle) toasted and cut up
Hard boiled egg yolk
Pancakes made with fruit or veggie puree (banana, carrot or apple have all worked well)

_________________________________________________
And an update on us, sorry for being MIA, it's been kind of busy.
- Will is walking, more or less, and he's getting better at it every hour. Andy is a bit more cautious, and will take about a step before gently sitting himself down. I wish Will was a little more cautious, he took a tumble and ended up with an almost black eye. Then again, I rumbled with a baby gate and now my leg looks like I was run over by a motorcycle, so maybe he gets it from me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rh7WIL_PMAg to see all their stumbling around.

- We're taking a 6 hour, non-stop flight in just a few days. Um, I'm terrified. I think I'm just going to keep handing them goldfish and Puffs and cross my fingers they sleep a little. Wow, what have I gotten myself into?

- We've almost completely switched to whole milk, and it's gone pretty well. We're on one bottle of formula right before bed and I'm going back and forth on the best way and time to get rid of that one.

- Two of my closest friends have had babies in the last two weeks and a third had her shower this past weekend. It's brought up all sorts of weird feelings and emotions. I'm not sure really how to explain it, but I'm reacting in a very strange way. Of course I'm super happy for them, there's just these moments of panicky sadness at the most random times, and I haven't quite put my finger on what exactly is triggering it. I don't know if I'm re-thinking my two-and-done plan, or if I'm remorseful about my birth experience or if it's something else. It's just strange, and really out of left field.

I hope I'll be able to check in more often this month. I want to see what all you ladies are doing for Halloween! It's my favorite time of the year!

[helios7]

Happy October mommies!

What are everyone's Halloween plans? We're going back to Brooklyn for a party with our old baby friends, so I need to get cooking on a costume. Such a big decision! What to be on his first Halloween?

It does seem being dairy free has helped Quinn. The laundry has decreased, and things seem more... normal. So that's good. I will try to touch base with his doctor this week to check in, and see if I can start adding dairy back in yet or what she'd like us to do.

Finger foods - puffs, cheerios, standard stuff
Quinn is big on tiny pieces of diced fruit (apples, pears, nectarines)
brown rice (loves that)
I diced some butternut squash and roasted it - that was a hit
pieces of veggie burger
pieces of bread
pieces of frozen waffle (cooked though :D)
pancakes

We just tried hummus yesterday, and it seemed to go over well. I'm hoping hummus on bread might be a finger food in the future.

I'm enjoying reading these lists - I may have to try him on veggie booty! I wouldn't have thought of that.

So, my question of the day is - SAHM (or working moms, but definitely SAHM) what do you do to get a break? Lately I'm feeling super tired. DH has been working a ton, and doing projects on the weekend and I'm just going with Quinn 24-7 around the clock. And it's wearing me down. How do you get your breaks? Do you hire a sitter for an hour here or there? Do you just deal? I know my fatigue has been aggravated by moving, Quinn's dietary issues etc and as life settles down it'll get better. But I'm thinking of trying to hire a sitter occasionally for an hour or so just so I can sit down and take a break. Is that insane? I feel bad, it's not really something that I want to add to our budget but I also feel like DH's job has just kept him so busy lately I can't look to him for help more then he is able to give. I love being a SAHM, but am I crazy to feel entitled to a break occasionally? Talking this over with my mom made me feel like I am. Looking forward to reading other thoughts!

Okay, boy's up. Must go!

[Beth H]

But I'm thinking of trying to hire a sitter occasionally for an hour or so just so I can sit down and take a break. Is that insane?

No - I think this is a great idea. You need a breather too. Here in Columbia, a few church-based daycares have drop-in availability on certain mornings/afternoons - maybe you could do something like that from time to time, too?

Things here are going well - Will's 9 month "birthday" (and check-up) are tomorrow. I appreciate all of the finger food tips - Will still is slow to be "picking up" on finger foods, but perhaps some of these would inspire him? It frustrates me a bit that he doesn't seem that eager about eating (other than his bottles) - he'll eat, but often he gets fussy in the middle of it.

Sleeping - not so great the past week. Hopefully we're in for one of his better "cycles," since he seems to do well one week and poorly the next. :)

Bekki - maybe you are feeling wistful that your babies aren't really babies any more? DH and I were sorting through some things on Sunday, and I nearly started crying when I saw Will's little baby cap (the one he wore in the hospital).

Sarah - I have mixed feelings about H1N1 vaccine too. I'm actually fearful that they are going to have it available at Will's check-up tomorrow, and I'm going to have to decide right then. However, there has been a confirmed case of it in his baby room at school which is pushing me more to have it, I guess.

Tami - what great photos! Those are some really big zucchini!

Ashley - as I've mentioned before, Will's similar with napping. The aides often say things like "all of the other babies were sleeping, so Will and I were playing. . " :) He often just does 2 20 - 30 minute naps a day, and that doesn't always translate into good sleeping at night, unfortunately.

Hope everyone else is having a good week!

[Beth G.]

Me: 39
DH: 40
DS: Michael, 9 months today

Hey everyone. My aunt is now in inpatient rehab and the prognosis is ok. My dad is home and seems better today but we have been gravely concerned. He may have had H1N1 and with his age and health it wiped him out, although the main issue was he had a thrush infection that caused a really sore throat and basically didn’t eat or drink for at least 3 days so he was in desperate need of an IV. Hopefully he will be ok for DBs wedding.

We had Michael’s 9 month visit today and he got his seasonal flu shot. The H1N1 is not available here yet but might be when we go back in a month for the second seasonal flu shot dose. If available, our doctor will likely recommend it since Michael is in day care, and I tend to agree. There should be some more experience by then. I am pro-vaccine but concerned too so I have been doing some reading and it seems similar to any other vaccine debate. I got really upset reading Dr. Jay Gordon’s perspective. It sounds to me like he would prefer to see everyone fight this by washing their hands but if they get infected with H1N1 the survivors will build great natural immunity and meanwhile people like my dad will just decline in health or die. I am totally reading my own perspective into what he says because I’m emotional right now so I’m going to stay away from his website ;).

Michael's cold and the sinusitis it led to are gone and we are finished with the antibiotics as of this morning. We used the Culturelle but the antibiotic still led to a lot of diarrhea and a brutal diaper rash. I introduced banana and changed the Culturelle from the evening to morning which seemed to help a bit, but I am glad that is done and look forward to his system getting back to normal now.

The doctor okayed us to start chicken, turkey, and yogurt. I forgot to ask about cheese but no rush and we can ask at the next visit. He wants the noon meal to be the large one. Right now he has a big breakfast and dinner but lunch is a bottle so we have to rethink the whole plan. I know if we do this he will further cut his breastmilk so I am not sure how to approach his feeding now. He gets a bottle from DH when he wakes up, cereal and fruit when he gets to day care, a midday bottle, a late afternoon bottle, cereal and veggies for dinner, and breastfeeds at bedtime and once during the night. I think we need to make the big cereal and fruit lunch after a bottle, so maybe some yogurt and cheerios or puffs as breakfast? Hmm….

Meanwhile we are going to start looking at new pediatric practices, ugh... Our doctor will retire eventually and sold his practice already. We are not at all fond of the new owner or the other doctor she brought with her. When I have time I will tell the story about the nebulizer order.

Last piece of news - we have a tooth! And another looks to be right behind it.

Hope to be back for personals later this week.

A favorite new picture – as you can see we still get some use out of the bouncer. I haven’t downloaded the one from this morning where he was sort of doing down dog in the bouncer and bent completely over with his hands were touching the floor. I am impressed both with his flexibility and the bouncer’s stability.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce25b3127ccef81c5de67c0a00000030O00AbsmzZw2cN2 IPbz4e/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[tholbrook]

First of all ... a big HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY to Neal!!! Melissa (mabvt), I hope you all are having a wonderful day!

I'm not going to do the full run of personals yet, but I did want to say:

Bekki - I think it is a bittersweet thing, seeing your little one(s) becoming more and more independent every day. I'd imagine it is a little different for you, having 2 kids but only going through 1 pregnancy and 1 transition of newborn-infant-toddler. Like Beth, I get very nostalgic when I look at Maya's teeny-tiny clothes from way back when. I love, love, LOVE the video of Will and Andy walking - they both are moving so quickly now. How on earth do you keep up with both of them? :eek::D I do have a question for you: what gates are you using to block off that play area? I'm interested in those brown fabric-looking ones if you happen to know the brand name. I've been using strategically placed cushions and crates (and a constant watchful eye) to keep Maya out of everything, but it's not a good long-term solution.

Heather - you are absolutely NOT CRAZY to need/want some downtime. I totally get the mental/physical exhaustion of taking care of a baby all day, and I haven't even had nearly the challenges that you've experienced recently. I think taking a break from childcare on a regular basis will go a long way to lessening the stress you're feeling - and that can only be good for everyone, right? :) A babysitter sounds like a good start. I'm so glad to hear that Quinn's digestive problems are starting to settle down; that must be such a relief for you.

Anyone care to share their thoughts/decision on the regular flu and H1N1 vaccines? I'm still sitting on the fence for the H1N1, but I heard today on the radio that a local elementary school has closed until further notice because 1/3 of the students and staff were out sick, presumably with swine flu. Between that and our own flu scare last week, I'm leaning toward getting Maya vaccinated. So I called her pediatrician today to set up her appointment for a regular flu shot and inquire about the H1N1 shot. I was told that in addition to the H1N1 availability being delayed until the end of this month (or later!), that they are now experiencing a shortage of the regular flu vaccine, and now THAT won't be available for at least 3 more weeks either. The good news - if you can call it that :rolleyes: - is that they haven't seen a single case of regular flu yet. The bad news is that they have been inundated with cases of swine flu. So I'm stressing out about the whole thing, and I'm sure I'll be waffling back and forth for 3 more weeks. Ugh. :(

[helios7]

Tami - you mentioned the flu vaccine debate! My other favorite topic to worry about! :confused: I'm pro-vaccine and will go ahead with the flu shot for Quinn, DH and I (assuming DH and I can find a doctor and get it). But I just don't know if we're high risk enough for me to have Quinn get the H1N1, if it's even available. He's not in daycare, we're no longer seeing our friends regularly, we haven't met new friends up here yet... granted I realize all it would take is a trip to the grocery store to potentially expose him. But is it worth the risk of a new, relatively untested shot???? Our new ped gave it a lukewarm recommendation - clearly the practice as a whole has to recommend it but we could tell she wasn't 100% on board.

Thanks for the feedback on the sitter. I broached the topic with DH, and he's totally supportive. I emailed one potential sitter, but she wants $15 an hour! Seems a bit much without a formal education background. I think I may look to the local college first. I'd kind of thought $10 (possibly $8) seemed more reasonable for one baby. What do others pay sitters?

Beth G - Glad things are getting better in your world. :)

Beth H - my mom recommended trying to find a "Mother's Day out program" which sounds similar to what you recommended. Clearly I need to get researching!

Love the pics. Here's my boy...
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs214.snc1/8116_1217671251379_1516817069_580392_4249942_n.jpg

[tholbrook]

I got really upset reading Dr. Jay Gordon’s perspective. It sounds to me like he would prefer to see everyone fight this by washing their hands but if they get infected with H1N1 the survivors will build great natural immunity and meanwhile people like my dad will just decline in health or die. I am totally reading my own perspective into what he says because I’m emotional right now so I’m going to stay away from his website ;).

Beth, I can certainly see why his articles would upset you :(! I hope your dad recovers completely soon. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I stumbled across the same article (it was a copy of a letter (http://www.mylittlebuddha.com/little-buddha-gems/2009/09/11/dr-jay-gordon-talks-about-swine-flu/) sent out to his patients, for anyone who wants to read it), and wasn't at all convinced by his argument against vaccination - and treatment! - either. It did come across as pretty offensive, not to mention full of speculation rather than actual facts. This statement, actually posted on his website in April (and never retracted) doesn't give him much credibility, IMO:

Swine Flu is a virus for which there is no vaccine, no threat to your family and there are undoubtedly tens of thousands of harmless undiagnosed cases throughout the world. - http://www.drjaygordon.com/development/news/swineflu.asp

Heather - that is my dilemma too. I don't have Maya in daycare, we don't spend a lot of time with other babies, and I meticulously wipe down the cart when we go shopping. When we do venture into "dangerous" territory (story hour at the library, for example), I take her over to the sink and wash her hands when we're done; plus most parents would not consider it a critical activity for a sick child to attend. And of course, I wash my own hands and use more hand sanitizer than I care to admit. I realize that is no guarantee whatsoever of preventing exposure, but I'd like to think Maya's risk is minimal. But on the other hand, with all the news lately, I'm terrified of her getting sick. We have been tremendously lucky so far, and she's never had as much as a sniffle ... I know it's only a matter of time before I have to deal with something or other, but I certainly don't want it to be something as potentially serious as the flu. I've never had a flu shot myself, and haven't had the flu since I was 12 or 13. So it has been a battle between feeling invincible and totally vulnerable.

Thanks for listening to my rambling thoughts, ladies! :)

[MinEaston]

And hopefully some of the new moms from the pregnancy thread will join in this month. I sometimes miss those early months so I'd love to hear about your little ones and how you all are doing.

I'll jump in here, but I'll start by apologizing in advance for not hitting personals. I barely have time to lurk, let alone post! But right now the babe is sleeping and I have an electrician in my kitchen so I have a few minutes.

Nicholas was born Sept 5. He's been a good baby so far, although lately we have some fussy periods in the evenings, which we can handle by holding him. He's a great eater (went from 6lbs 15 oz post-discharge to 8lbs 10oz 2 weeks later :eek: and is probably 10lbs by now). Has the usual gas issues and is hard to burp, but spits up very little. We're starting to see more awake periods now and interest in his surroundings, including the start of smiles.

My biggest revelation as a second-time mom: I thought I was relaxed with Anna (she's 4 and a half now), but clearly, I wasn't. I think this has a lot to do with how things are going.

I'm home until sometime in November, and DH is home as well, although he's doing a fair amount of consulting. We are trying to wrap up the little details on a kitchen/family room remodel project that started in July 2008 (yes, 2008), and take care of plenty of other items.

Anna loves her little brother and has been, for the most part, OK with him being around. She takes out her frustrations on me, not on him. She's thriving in morning Pre-K and revels in her "big sister" role.

RE: flu shots - we will all get the seasonal flu shot but I have not thought too hard about H1N1. Yet.

[linsleyd]

I wanted to jump in here now that I'm back to work. Amelia is two months old today and began daycare on Monday. She didn't handle the first day too well and slept from the time DH picked her up until the next morning and was still sleepy. She did eat a few times throughout the night but not too much and she was still sleepy when she did eat. But yesterday was better.
Amelia is a charmer and a calm happy baby. She was 7 lbs last Thursday and although she's up once or twice a night she eats and goes right back to bed so it's not too bad. I'm up at 4:45 to get ready for work so I'm trying to get the second wakeup around that time!
We're working on coping with this whole work thing. I need to be on the train at 5:51 am, Dh gets the bottles ready and drop off for daycare and then picks her up at night since I don't get home until 7. Then we have to eat dinner, spend time with Amelia and try and get bottles and our lunches ready for the next day. Luckily I drive on Fridays since I have a shorter day (and can pick Amelia up earlier) or I'm really not sure how long this would work! Being a working mom is rough!

[Pony]

Me: 34 in less then a week!
DH: 33
Evelyn: 9 months tomorrow!

We are back from our trip to FL. It was a nice time and we were very fortunate to be around family. Carl stayed w/ his grandmother most of the time since she has not been alone in 66 years :o

Evelyn did really well on the plane, but did not sleep. She entertained many people on the plane yesterday. It was so adorable. Carl had her on the aisle side and she was waving to everyone. This one lady was at the bathroom and they were waving to each other. When she came back, she stopped to say hi and Evelyn reached out to her for her to hold her.

She had her 9 month appt last week. She weighed in at 20 pounds 5 ounces and 28" long. She got her regular flu shot and the MD was not too big on the H1N1 vaccine. They don't have it in yet and he said his kids won't be getting it. They have a huge practice and him alone sees 15 cases of H1N1 daily! He said it really isn't as scary as people make it out to be. He was like, "yes, people will die from it" but that will happen w/ the regular flu as well. He encouraged washing hands, etc. He doesn't feel like there is enough information out there for him to recommend it. I think I'm going to go w/ his advice and not get it for Evelyn since she is not in daycare. I might get it b/c of my interaction w/ my pts, but maybe not for her. Who knows.....

Sleep is the same. She did sooo well falling asleep at the grandparents. Yay! However, she was up throughout the night like she is at home.

I also started to eat dairy again!!! Yay. She seems fine. She has always been a gassy baby. I have noticed that she has spit up a little bit here and there. That finally stopped about 2 months ago, but the past week has started again. However, it is NOTHING like before. Just a few drips. She was spitting up when I was dairy free though.

Ok, will have to do personals later...gotta get some work done!

Ashely, thanks for starting the thread :)

ETA: Beth G. I just read your post about your dad. I hope what I wrote was not insensitive about the vaccine. My niece had it as well, but did fine. I'm sorry your father had to be hospitalized! Hope everyone gets better soon.

[Sarah45]

Like Heather and Tami, I am having a hard time deciding on Jackson’s risk on H1N1 infection. No daycare here and really our only exposure to lots of other kids is Mommy and Me at the local hospital. But, after next week the class is disbanded until the end of flu season so that risk has been taken away. (I am super bummed to be losing my connection with all of those other Moms :( ) I have shopping cart cover for our grocery trips and we only drive into town to do that about 1 or 2 times a week. Yesterday, sitting at class and listening to them talk about H1N1 really got me paranoid about it but around here they are taking worst case scenario precautions (no one under 18 is allowed to visit at the hospital) in the hopes that it isn’t bad - but for a first time Mom it’s a bit scary. Michelle – Thanks for sharing the perspective from your ped.

I am starting to see the beginnings or crawling on knees and Jackson is also starting to climb up into things – like the box of dog toys. It’s fun to watch the day to day progress right now since there are so many more things he is accomplishing.

Halloween! DH and I have a large (60+ people) Halloween party every year so we are in the medst of prepping for that, We agreed that we were scaling back a bit this year but DH seems incapable of doing so. :rolleyes: Jackson has his costume (a lemur!) and I always grab a fun Tshirt at Target and dress festively instead of going through both party prep and costume prep and making myself crazy. Should be an interesting couple weeks here as we try and get lots done ahead of time (because of course we will have 3 houseguests that weekend too). I think we may be crazy… :eek:

Linsleyd and Mineaston – Welcome to the thread, I’m starting to get nostalgic for the newborn days so it’s fun to hear from some Moms who are there. :)

[Beth G.]

Hi Moms! A few new things to report since my last post. Michael has been refusing to nurse at bedtime :(. That has always been the one feeding I could count on where he would both nurse well and not spend half the entire time playing with my nose, grabbing his feet, smacking himself on the head etc. Last night he wasn’t too interested in nursing but spend 5 minutes playing with my teeth. I guess now that he has one (or two) he wants to know what he’s in for. He still nurses once during the night ok although he has shortened that feeding too. So I’ve had to add a 5th pumping session to my day before I go to bed and I basically feel like I’m exclusively pumping. It’s just to protect my supply, not because we are short on bottle/cereal milk (yet). I had this delusion that if I was getting my period and didn’t feel like continuing to bf would significantly reduce my chances of getting pregnant that I would continue the bedtime feeding after Michael turns one. Obviously he does not feel the same way. On the positive side, I was able to get him to sleep reasonably quickly without a lot of crying, so I’m relieved that once nursing is over we can do that. And I guess I won’t have to worry about him being hard to wean. He isn’t great with the bottle either. But he’ll eat cereal with 3 oz of milk so I make sure he gets it somewhere.

It is interesting to hear all the peds not encouraging the H1N1 vaccine, as usually peds are so pro vax. Ours felt he really doesn’t know enough yet. One thing I know is that if there is enough vaccine left after the high risk groups have been vaccinated, I plan to get it for me. I would like to get pregnant next year and I have no interest in becoming a statistic. I would rather get the vax before I’m pregnant than after. I haven’t had the flu since 4th grade (the fact that I remember that exactly means it was pretty severe then). I started getting the seasonal vax in 2001.

On the positive side, there seem to be lower flu rates here in the NY area since there was a significant outbreak in the spring. There may be a herd immunity effect.

Michael is coughing again so we have to watch that. We were so lucky the first 3 months at day care but it seems the jig is up :(.

Tami – how are the chunky/smooth foods going? The whole milk? I am pretty sure I read somewhere that many kids can’t handle whole milk until 18 months even though 12 months is the standard transition. In the lactation room at work there is a really old copy of What to Expect the First Year. It insists that after age 1 breastmilk is inferior to the nutrition provided by whole milk and your baby NEEDS cow milk. I wonder how babies have survived in all the times and areas where cow milk was not available :). So jealous that you can nurse Maya down for naps. Michael stopped that insanely early, like 4 months. Those zucchini look awesome. Love the hat pic too! We bought our winter coat today.

Sarah – great picture of Jax on your bed. Glad to hear about the sleep improvements. I have been sleeping a little better myself. I hope you have too! Sounds like he’s doing great with food. Good luck with the party. We haven’t done anything bigger than 10 in awhile and I can’t imagine that right now!

Ashley – we are having little tantrums now too. Mainly when I take away the laptop. We moved it to the other side of his play area (cordoned off with superyard) and hung the camera from the top of the fence. So he starts climbing the fence to get to the camera. Were you able to boost your supply by nursing Matt every two hours? Michael would never help us out like that. Great picture of you and Matt. That one is a keeper! I need to get some good pictures with me too. I have great solo shots but none of us together. Has the antibiotic helped with the ear infection?

Michelle – sorry to hear about Carl’s grandfather. I am glad he and Evelyn were able to meet. Love her funny face! Not insensitive about my dad. He’s 76, anemic, diabetic, and handles colds, flus etc. poorly. He’s high risk and the seasonal flu could kill him too. Gets a flu shot every year. I’m sure he would have had the H1N1 already if he could have. No brainer. We only need one spoon, but when I’m on the phone I have to give Michael a second handset to play with. Yay on having dairy again! Glad she was good on the plane.

Beth H. – Glad Will’s ear infection is getting better. Any progress on crawling or with the solids? We really felt like our day care taught Michael to eat solids. We were not doing well with them but their experience helped. I need to get them on the finger foods. He gets the finger part but not the food part.

Heather – Greetings from the “south”. We’re in Rockland. The bus is a never ending adventure! We are also going to have to move with a baby at some point, or maybe a baby and a toddler depending on how quickly we find something. I don’t look forward to it! That is a really cute shirt (and the model is very cute too). Glad dairy free has helped Quinn, but I’m sure it must be limiting for you, I remember it was such an important part of your vegetarian diet. I hope you won’t be dairy free for long.

MinEaston – I am so not calm! Maybe I will be calmer with #2 when the time comes. Maybe J Glad Anna is adjusting well. Sounds like Nicholas has a healthy appetite!

LinsleyD – welcome. I did not think anyone had a longer commute/day than me. Being a working mom is very rough. I hope you can sleep on the train.

Bekki and Melissa, thank you for the input on the finger foods! Great video, Bekki, I showed it to DH so we could see how you have your play area set up.

Pretty sure this is not how the bouncer is supposed to be used:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce29b3127ccef8055fe9fb3f00000030O00AbsmzZw2cN2 IPbz4e/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[Bawstinn]

Maria, 40
David, 36
Christopher, 4 months

Hello!

Between work and home not a whole lot of time to post although I do try to lurk. Christopher's fever ultimately ended us up in the ER as the walk-in clinic (which I hate going to) prescribed amoxicillian for him and it was too much for his little system to handle. Really bad gas and diarrhea and he wouldn't eat. A trip to the ER showed he had a virus and the doc took him off the antibiotic and within 12 hours he was back to normal. Unfortnately we lost the nice sleep pattern we had. :(

Not much else going on around here. Had his 4 month check-up last week and he was 26.5 inches long and 15lb 15 oz. He has turned into a grabby little boy as he tried to get his hands on everything (thermometer, stethescope, ear thingy). Madeleine has learned it is not smart to get her hair in his vicinity.

Started cereal this week, just at suppertime to get in some practice, and he opens his mouth like a little bird and grabs the spoon. Apparently he likes to eat. I feel bad as he has really been getting into it and it makes me wonder if he is really satisfied with nursing. He is still eating every 3 hours, 5 oz (at daycare anyway).

Flu shot - I got my flu shot and need to take Madeleine. If Christopher could get one he would, just because of daycare. I am also up in the air about H1N1. Being small town America it made the news last week when 2 kids in a daycare center came down with it.

Kix is also a good finger food and I'll admit it was fun to watch Madeleine try and catch them as they rolled around the highchair. Another cereal I wouldn't have thought of was Cinnamon Life. They got it at daycare snd she loved it.

Halloween - I think we are doing a chef (Madeleine) and a lobster in a stockpot (Christopher). Hoping he fits in the pot we have. :D

MinEaston - I am guessing that I was a lot more relaxed this time around as well. Otherwise Christopher must be a very easygpoing baby. I actually got projects done around the house while I was out on leave.

[helios7]

Ugh. Sick boy in our house.

Yesterday Quinn seemed like he had a bit of a cold, but was still himself. We had weekend guests, and after several full-disclosure conversations, we decided not to cancel. Whoops! By evening Quinn was a snot-faucet, clearly quite ill and with a temp. Cold, I think not. He is responding to motrin, but his fever is climbing up in between doses so we're not through it yet. Dare I utter the dreaded f-l-u word? :confused:

The worst part is his naps have fallen apart. As in he's barely taking them. He's having trouble nursing because of the congestion, and i don't think he's that hungry. We just got him to go down after letting him cry for a few minutes - which feels awful when he's so sick but he needs the sleep. The congestion wakes him after 20-30 minutes though. I miss my napper!

Send us healthy thoughts ladies, especially as my throat hurts and I'm not feeling so fabulous. :(

[Pony]

heather and quinn...feel better. get some rest.

love,
evie p
:)

[Beth G.]

Heather, hope you and Quinn feel better soon!

[helios7]

Thanks for the well-wishes. We're hanging in there. No fever this morning, but I think he may have a slight one now. He's down for a nap - here's hoping for more then 20 minutes! I have a new appreciation for the pain the mothers of catnappers go through!

I'm ignoring a big pile of cloth diapers that need folding to do personals. Seems much more fun! :cool:

Tami - I still don't know what to do. The downside of not taking him to the doctor is that I don't know what he's had. I think it might be the flu of some sort, but DH is adamant it isn't. But when I refuted his "just a cold" argument with the high fever, he didn't have a better alternative. :rolleyes: We'll see, this certainly hasn't been fun. I have a new appreciation for the devastation that is a sick baby!!

Welcome MinEaston and Nicholas! Quinn was a big eater in the beginning too. Got to love those big boys! I look forward to continued "second baby" revelations as I try to contemplate a second one in the future. :D

Welcome Linsley and Amelia! I love that name, and am so happy to hear that things are going well. Although your work schedule... that's so tough. I know BethG has a long commute also, hopefully she'll have some tips for you as you continue to work out all the bugs of a new routine.

Sarah - the Halloween party sounds fun. Can't wait to see pics! But yes, a 60 person party would take a ton of work right now. We're planning a brunch for Quinn's first bday and that's already stressing me out. But I figured brunch would be the easiest meal in terms of prep (muffins ahead of time etc) and the most baby friendly around his current nap schedule. I'll be interested to hear how your party goes.

BethG - Ah, Rockland. Yup, know of it. Well, if you ever feel like a day trip north... ;) I'm fascinated by Michael refusing to nurse at bedtime. I completely get how tough that is for you as a working mom, but I'm petrified at what will happen when Quinn stops nursing. It's such a part of his going to sleep routine (probably another reason why napping has been so hard for him while he's sick as he's having trouble breathing while nursing). I remind myself we'll "grow" into it, but I just don't know what will happen. So I'll be interested to hear what happens there.

Maria - Glad to hear Christopher is doing well. With regards to the eating, I'm sure he's been doing fine with nursing. It just seems to me (based on moms in my mom's group reporting) that some kids take to it really well, and others need more time. I still think one of the biggest ironies was that a girl with six teeth was actually one of the last to "catch on" to the solid food craze at almost 10 months. Keep the stories about #2 being easy going and life not seeming as hard coming!! :)

Michelle - you've been quiet lately. i hope work is keeping you busy, and that Evelyn is doing well. How's sleep going? We've had Quinn in our (bigger ;) ) bed these past few nights as its helped him sleep, and I've been thinking of you. I hope we'll be able to transition back to his crib fairly smoothly ... he's napping in his crib now, so fingers crossed.

Hope everyone else I might have missed is doing well.
:)

[Pony]

Heather....hope the fever stays away! Yes, quiet b/c busy at work! I can't really get on here when at home since that is my only time with Evelyn. Work is busy...labs are back and must educate these patients, get care plans done and do some medication changes...fun fun fun. Would rather be at home. ;)

Evelyn is fine.....she is not even taking naps in the crib right now. I think b/c of our FL trip, but she usually always takes naps in the crib. Carl was going to work on that this week. Crossing my fingers she gets back into the crib. It has been weird, b/c she hasn't even let us put her in there to play. She cries hysterically :( Strange, b/c she used to love playing in her crib.

Ok, gotta get back to work.

[BakerJane]

Popping in with a quick question. For those of you who use formula which kind do you use? Eileen is 9 1/2 months now and I just cannot keep up with her. I've been exclusively pumping for her since she was born and for the past 3 weeks I've only been able to pump about 1/3 - 1/2 of what she eats during the day. I've gone through my frozen store and am now looking at formulas. Has anyone tried the Earth's Best Organic?

I'm contemplating switching 100% to formula - the amount of time I spend pumping to get so few ounces isn't worth it. I can't add more pumping sessions or minutes on to my current sessions to increase my supply. I think I'm okay making the switch because she's had 9 months of breastmilk which is great (though my goal was to make it to one year.)

Thanks!

[linsleyd]

So, I've got either a sick kid or one suffering from allergies and I don't know what to do anymore to help her feel better. ( She is congested, eyes red and watery, sneezing and coughing) She gets the saline nose drops, her bed is elevated, we have the humidifier running and she is still so stuffed up she can't sleep at night. Finally around 3 last night I put her on my chest and she fell asleep. I then laid her next to me, which meant I didn't sleep, but she slept fine. As soon as I laid her back in her bassinet when I got up at 4:30 she was screaming again.
Am I doing all I can do?

[MinEaston]

So, I've got either a sick kid or one suffering from allergies and I don't know what to do anymore to help her feel better. ( She is congested, eyes red and watery, sneezing and coughing) She gets the saline nose drops, her bed is elevated, we have the humidifier running and she is still so stuffed up she can't sleep at night. Finally around 3 last night I put her on my chest and she fell asleep. I then laid her next to me, which meant I didn't sleep, but she slept fine. As soon as I laid her back in her bassinet when I got up at 4:30 she was screaming again.
Am I doing all I can do?

If she has a fever, or isn't eating properly and having enough wet/dirty diapers, I'd check with your doc (you may have done so already).

I remember Anna getting the same way at about the same age. In retrospect, I think she was mildly allergic to the cat we had at the time. I know here in MD there's a lot of allergens in the air.

[acginkc]

So, I've got either a sick kid or one suffering from allergies and I don't know what to do anymore to help her feel better. ( She is congested, eyes red and watery, sneezing and coughing) She gets the saline nose drops, her bed is elevated, we have the humidifier running and she is still so stuffed up she can't sleep at night. Finally around 3 last night I put her on my chest and she fell asleep. I then laid her next to me, which meant I didn't sleep, but she slept fine. As soon as I laid her back in her bassinet when I got up at 4:30 she was screaming again.
Am I doing all I can do?

Matt had this same thing last spring and my doctor said seasonal allergies take a few years to develop. I think you are doing about all you can so far. One other suggestion they gave us was to take a hot shower together (obviously not too hot) as that would help loosen up the congestion. I agree with MinEaston though, if there is a fever or decrease in diapers I'd take her in to see the Doctor. Hope Amelia starts feeling better soon.

Heather, how is Quinn feeling?

[linsleyd]

There isn't a fever or a decrease in diapers so I haven't bothered the doctor at this point. Thanks for letting me know I am doing about all that I can...
I think it's time to invest in a dyson animal, though. 1000 square feet, 2 large dogs and a baby seems like it's time!

[helios7]

Heather, how is Quinn feeling?

Ugh. It's been rough ladies. He's better, not as sick as the weekend. But I thought I had sleep issues before? I had it made.

I think (I'm hoping) it's the congestion. But the kid won't go to sleep. Nap schedule -out the window. Bedtime? We're at a 25% success rate n the past four nights. Sunday and last night he will not go to sleep, and I've taken him to bed at nine where he's drifted off with no issue. But it's been rough. And I'm completely terrified we'll never get back on schedule once he's better... I'm reassuring myself we will as we got there once but I miss naps! I miss him going to sleep without the many (many) failed attempts involving much screaming. He's also been unable to nurse (unless in bed) so that's been tough too. Although he's drinking milk from a sippy cup which is helpful, although means pumping. Ugh.

Anyways, we're off to the dr in a bit. Fingers crossed for some good dairy (and good sickness) news!


Linsley - I feel your pain! Here's hoping Amelia feels better soon!

[linsleyd]

Oh, I hope Quinn feels better! The congestion is absolutly the worst thing!

[Beth G.]

Get well wishes to Amelia and Quinn!!

Michael slept through the night last night for the second time ever! He was asleep at 9 (shhh, no one tell Dr. Weissbluth that I kept him up late because I got home really late from work due to bad weather/traffic and I thought he needed some time with his mother). He got up at 6:25 and I nursed him right away. Fortunately I am working at home today or I’d have missed the bus. I know he needs more overall sleep than that but it’s a start. As usual I was up through the night stressing about my supply so I did not get a great night sleep. He has been a little better with nursing at bedtime and with milk overall, so he must have been having a teething problem. He had cut his morning bottle with Daddy on the days I commute to 3 oz for weeks and has been back to 5 the last few days, and the day care also requested more milk for his lunchtime bottle.

My dad is feeling better. My aunt is still in the rehab but hopefully she will be ok to attend DB’s wedding. It is a week from Sunday! We are taking Michael to the tailor tomorrow to get his tux fitted.

Chicken was not a hit. He did a little better when it was pulverized and mixed in applesauce. We are doing wheat now and yogurt next week. Wheat is a hit of course since he loves cereal. I hope the yogurt goes well. We have settled on the Nuby sippy and he’s drank 1.5 oz of water out of it at times (great use for my kitchen scale). I need to get DH on giving him milk in it too; a 2 time mom friend suggested that as her first never drank milk from the sippy because he didn’t associate it with milk since she had trained him on it with water. I think we are going to have to retrain though and switch to a straw cup at 12 months or so as I am told that is better for the teeth.

A friend forwarded me the letter her pediatrician practice sent out about H1N1. The lead doctor is against flu vaccines overall and in favor of natural immunity. I googled him and discovered he also believes babies can sleep through the night almost from birth (tell our babies that!) and don’t need night feedings even as newborns. So I decided he was a quack and to move on and then I started wondering if all those flu cases his patients are getting to build their natural immunity are sending his kids to college (and he’s opening two more offices). I know he took the oath, but I can be awfully cynical sometimes…

Jane – I don’t use formula but check out what the Environmental Working Group has to say about BPA in the Earth’s Best formula packaging. I know they had some concerns. Sorry to hear your pumping volumes are down. You have done such a great job to get this far!

Heather – how did it go with the doctor? Is Quinn feeling better? It is so hard as working mom to have Michael refuse to nurse at bedtime. I had about 3 glorious months (6-9) where he was so tired from day care and had dropped the late afternoon nap that he would fall asleep so quickly afterwards, just got himself into a comfy position in the crib and he was out. Those days are over, both on the nursing and tiredness front. I’ve also started wiping his tooth after nursing at bedtime, which he loves (sucking the gauze, anyway, not the tooth wiping), which wakes him up. I hope Quinn’s health and sleep is improving and you are getting some rest too. I try always to think, things will get back to normal. And eventually Quinn will sleep without nursing too. All kids do, right? Hang in there.

[Pony]

Love all the finger food suggestions!

Evelyn has only taken one nap in her crib this week. She will not stay in it. Earlier this week, Carl let her cry for 3 minutes. He went in and she was snotty, red faced, screaming, and full of tears. He just napped w/ her and has tried other times to get her down w/o success. She always took naps in her crib. ahhhh!

It finally cooled off again. I'm finding it hard to squeeze her into her jeans/pants w/ her fuzzi bunz!

She is finally practicing her m's and i'm hearing some mama's lately...yay! Typically when she cries though....

Ashley-Are naps any better lately? Evelyn is so hit or miss. During the week, Carl has gotten 2 really good naps out of her. Unfortunately, she is protesting the crib and he has to be w/ her. Just in case you were wanting to try to make them yourself, I cut carrots, squash, etc. into chunks and put them in a pot w/ a steamer basket and a little bit of water. Cover the pot, bring water to a boil, and simmer until they are soft enough. My doc gave me the go ahead to try meat, but we haven't yet. We haven't really had any, but we did make a pot of beans last night, so maybe we will give her some of those! How is his ear infection? Hope he is all better!!

Tami-Love the pictures as always!!! How is your husband? I'm still back and forth about the H1N1 vaccine.....reading about Greta's friend and just hearing more stories is making me want to see if I can get it for Evelyn.

Sarah-congrats on the progress with sleep! so jealous, ha! I love watching Evelyn get into her box of toys and pull things out. She doesn't know how to put them back in yet ;), but it is so cute watching her play.

Becki-congrats on the walking! sorry about the black eye. ouch! Evelyn was most entertained on the flight by puffs! good luck.

Heather-not sure about Halloween plans. I feel like I can't get my act together!! Carl said he saw a sock monkey costume. Who knows how hot or cold it will be in Houston. We were also thinking of a lemon costume since we called her Lemon in utero. You deserve a break and I think it is totally reasonable to hire a sitter! $15 seems a bit high. Did you find anyone else? Hope you are getting some sleep! Did you get my email? Also, I was thinking of how I was recommending goat and sheeps milk. Just wanted to point out that Evelyn was allergic to the protein in cows milk which caused inflammation in her colon leading to blood in her stool. I am assuming Quinn should be able to handle the sheep and goat, but then started thinking how he might not be having the same thing E was having....so, just wanted to through that out there.......A bday brunch sounds fun. I don't know what we will do. Our house is small and you never know how January Houston weather will be. My in-law's are coming down.

Beth H-How was Will's 9 month appt.?

Beth G-How is your aunt and dad doing? cute picture!! so sorry about the diarrhea and diaper rash. poor guy. Oh no, sorry about the bedtime nursing. Has it gotten any better? You have done such a great job keeping up w/ breastfeeding. Did his cough turn into anything?
Just read your update and glad your dad is doing better and I sure hope your aunt gets back to 100% soon! I'm glad he is nursing a bit more!!!

MinEaston-glad things are going well with Nicholas. Glad his big sister is enjoying him.

linsleyd-I hope daycare is going better for Amelia. Love the name. Wow, a 5:51am train and not home until 7pm. Do you work 5 days a week? Is Amelia feeling any better?

Maria-so sorry about Christopher's trip to the ER! Glad he is back to normal. Too cute about the lobster!

[Beth G.]

How did I forget to mention that I'll be away at bedtime tomorrow night for the first time since late April?? I hope it goes well for DH, but I won't be back that late if not, I am only going to the early part of DSIL to be's bachelorette night. I will miss being here, and feel badly that I'm leaving at lunchtime and Michael will be wondering when I'm coming home :(.

And Michael is pulling up in the crib now! Not standing yet, but it's fun to see his face when he grabs the top bar.

Michelle - sorry about the crib/napping struggles. Michael started the Ms too and one morning DH arrived at day care and he was saying Mama, Mama, in the car seat. He went to get him out and he was sleeping and reaching out while saying Mama. I wish I could have been there!! I think I want the H1N1 too but it's probably going to be a long time before it's available and then they are saying probably two doses for kids to be immune so we will be hoping to avoid the flu for some time. I know our day care plans to close if there is even one case. Hopefully not during DH's busy season at work!

[acginkc]

Hello all. I can't believe this month is half over. I've been reading along and am going to try to get a post pulled together here.

Matt is feeling better, only to be teething again. We almost have one of his upper eye teeth broken through. I feel like we haven't gotten a break. We are really trying to work on sleep, but it's such a losing battle when we are dealing with these other challenges. Look at all those good excuses I've come up with. :cool:

So despite our nap battles lately, he did give us a 3 hour nap last weekend.:eek::eek:. We almost died we were so surprised. But other than that one freak occurrence we are still all about the 30 minute naps. The other day he took 1 30 minute nap all day. Thats it, no more, no dozing off in the car or while feeding, nothing. Just one 30 minute nap.

Food is going great. My boy loves to eat. We are trying a lot of food he can feed himself and he's loving it. I will sit with him while he gnaws on a half a banana and he manages to handle that better than he did the little chunks I had been offering him. He loves black beans that I have squished so they are "broken" a bit. We did a lightly toasted mini bagel the other day and he really liked that, though i was nervous he was going to choke the whole time. Blueberries were a hit (though a bit messy). At daycare they have to watch him when the other kids are eating because he'll crawl under the table and try to grab the bits of food the others drop :o:o. I have been saying for a while I think he's part puppy, and this just further supports that theory.

I hope all Amelia and Quinn are feeling better and sleep is starting to get better for everyone. BethG how did Michael do on your evening away? And way to go on the sleeping through the night. Michelle Matt only says mama when he's crying as well. I try to teach him to say dada when he's upset ;). Hope her naps get better soon. Jane I am not using formula so not much help there, but I will probably be looking into that before long as well being that I'm not sure how long I'll be able to keep up with him. Please let us know which you decide to use. Maria how is Christopher feeling? I love the lobster in a pot costume, so adorable. Ok, I know I've missed some of you and I'm sorry. But gotta go get ready for work. BOOOO.

Here is a picture from our very cold trip to the KU homecoming game. We didn't stay very long, but had a great time.
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs229.snc1/7617_303183305570_503150570_9250056_1166794_n.jpg

[Beth G.]

Michael did great at bedtime without me. Of course it helped that he only took a 45 minute am nap and a 35 minute pm nap. DH gave him a bottle and said when he finished, he turned to my side of the bed to look for me. DH explained that I would be home when he woke up, put him in the crib and he went right to sleep! That hasn't happened to me in quite a while, but I usually am putting him to bed when he's had 3 hours of napping at day care.

Did I say nursing was going better? Ha. Right before I left I tried to feed him. He refused to nurse. Not hungry, right? So DH tried a bottle instead and he had 6 oz!!! :confused: :eek: :( :mad: I am glad it is only 2.5 months until he's one as I think even when I'm home he may only nurse at bedtime (if I'm lucky), during the night, and first thing in am when he doesn't totally know better and I am not sure if my supply can take that.

[Bawstinn]

Hello!

Colds have hit us full force here. Poor Christopher sounds like Darth Vader. Trying to suction his nose but nothing. I think I have it the worst. What stinks is we don't get sick time at work ... I'd love nothing more than to sleep away the day while everyone else is at work or daycare. :D

Cereal is going well. Still into attacking the spoon as if he has never had a meal before. :rolleyes: Still eating every 3 hours even though he upped his intake, at daycare anyway, to 6 oz bottles.

My dad came out here last weekend to see the kids. He hasn't seen Madeleine in over a year. He wanted to get their pictures taken while he was here. Poor Madeleine looks so tired (she was in the middle of the worst of her cold)

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l223/Bawstinn/MC2.jpg

Got to run and start supper before someone else decides he wants to eat. He always seems to need to eat right when I am inthe middle of cooking.

[tholbrook]

Ack, I’ve started and stopped this same post for the last 2 weeks… if I don't hurry up and finish, it will be November!!!

Heather – How are you and Quinn feeling? Did you ever decide whether it was the flu or not? Any progress on finding a sitter? I would have a hard time paying $15/hour too, but I would think $10 is fair. Are you looking for someone to come to your house? How’s the dairy-free diet going? Were you able to add back goat/sheep cheese?

Michelle – Ouch on Evelyn’s naps… wonder what’s going on with her? :confused: Aw, don’t you love hearing “mama”? Although it’s no fun when they cry it in a pitiful little voice (speaking from experience ;)) – very hard to refuse them anything! I’m anxious to see pictures of Evelyn in her Halloween costume, whatever you end up choosing!

Maria – sorry about you and both of your kids having colds! Hope everyone is feeling better soon. Darling picture – Christopher is getting so big and Madeleine is a doll! If that’s how she looks when she’s tired, I can’t imagine how cute she looks when she’s feeling good! ;)

Linsley – How is Amelia doing? Did you get to try out the new vacuum cleaner yet? I hope that it is allergies and not something worse. Oh my, you really put in some long days during the week! I bet you really look forward to Friday! :)

Jane – I wish I could recommend something, but we’re doing whole milk now that Maya is past 1 year. I’m really impressed that you’ve kept up pumping this long as it is – I always hated it, and could never get a decent amount. I still have to pump first thing in the morning 2 days a week because I get up and have to leave the house before Maya gets up - even after not BF for 10 hours, I still can't pump as much as I think I should. Good for you for making it so far - you should be really proud of yourself!

Ashley – Matt has the greatest expressions! I always love the pictures you post! And I’m impressed with all the different food that he eats. We’re still struggling. Too funny about him sneaking food from under the table! :D That stinks about the 30 minute naps; hope that gets better soon

Beth G – don’t you just love it when they change their whole routine when you’re away? :rolleyes: Maya always went down for naps better (and longer) for my DH than for me. Sorry Michael is still giving you a hard time with the breastfeeding … I know that must be so frustrating. How is teething going? And what happened with the nebulizer you mentioned? Cute pictures of Michael in his bouncer – he looks really comfortable in it, even though he can reach the floor! :)

Beth H – how did Will’s 9 month appointment go? Is he showing any more interest in finger foods these days? Maya still will only eat her puffs and graham crackers – we have to spoon-feed her everything else.

Mariana – Welcome! Glad that Nicholas is doing well, and that you feel more relaxed this time around! How wonderful that you started seeing the smiles so early – those baby grins are the best!

Sarah – wonderful news on the sleeping on night!!! Is Jackson still doing okay with both sleeping at night and his naps? It's so nice when things fall into place, isn't it? Even when it doesn’t last very long, you know that they are capable of sleeping better. Good luck with the Halloween party (yep, you might be a little crazy! ;):D)– hope you’ll post pictures of Jackson in his lemur costume!

Bekki and Melissa – great ideas on the finger foods! Now can someone convince my child when I put food in front of her, she supposed to eat it, and not throw it on the floor? :rolleyes: I gave her some plain cooked spaghetti today, and of course she just draped it all over her chair, then meticulously flipped each piece on the floor.

[NewMrsG]

Another newbie checking in!

My son Ari was born on September 11th, 5 weeks premature. I posted more details on the pregnancy thread, but the short version of the story is that I was induced early because of complications of pre-eclampsia, after 6 weeks of bed rest. Ari spent 13 days in the NICU but is now home and doing well. His due date was this past week, so it's surreal that he's been with us for 5 weeks now.

His sleep schedule is pretty awful. He doesn't like to sleep at night, and is up from 10:00 at night or so until 3:00 am. My husband and I are exhausted. He's better during the day (of course) but neither of us do very well with sleep deprivation so it's been pretty awful. He's also in our room in a bassinet (his sister was in her own room), which makes it harder because even when one of us is up with him, the other can't escape the noise, so we're both up. He's otherwise really content and not nearly as needy as his sister was as an infant. We've had 2 medical visits a week, but I think we're now "graduating" to one every 10 days or so. So we're very thankful that he's doing so well. I was an emotional mess in the NICU.

Looking forward to being here!
Jori

[linsleyd]

Jori, glad you are all home even if sleeping isn't working too well. NICU is HARD!

Amelia is doing better and it may have a little something to do with the $600 Dyson Animal we bought this weekend. We didn't have time to clean as much as we should have but we tried our best on the bedroom and the last two nights have been much better. I'm still sucking stuff out in the morning but it doesn't seem to be as bad as before. And my god do I love that dyson.:D

A question for all of you experienced mom's; when do you start a schedule for the baby? As of now when I get home I nurse Amelia off and on until I'm ready for bed and then I lay her down and she goes to sleep or we nurse some more in my bed and then I lay her down and she sleeps. I'm wondering at what age do we start the routine of bathing, reading, putting down to sleep. I imagine sometime next month we'll move her from the bassinet to the crib so maybe then???

[Sarah45]

The books I have read seem to indicate that sleep routines and schedules can start to be introduced around 4 months. But I would hardly call myself experienced :)

[tholbrook]

Hi Jori - welcome to you and Ari - sorry you've gone through so much (I was lurking on the pregnancy thread too) but I'm glad you're home and settling in. I [vaguely!] remember those early weeks and the complete and utter exhaustion. I hope he gets his days and nights straightened out soon.

Linsley - I was thinking that my source (SleepEasy Solution) said 5 months for establishing a sleep schedule/routine, but we didn't start until 7 months, when co-sleeping wasn't working anymore. Good luck, whatever you decide - and vent away if needed - believe me, this thread is full of babies who won't nap and/or sleep at night! ;)


At our house:

Maya has gotten braver over the past few weeks and now toddles out into the middle of the room - she can walk at least 5 feet (the distance between our 2 sofas, as you've seen on the FB video :)). She can squat down, pick up a toy, and stand back up without holding onto anything - she practices this over and over. :D She has also figured out how to climb into my lap when I'm in the recliner by wedging her feet where the footrest folds in.

Sleep... dare I say it? It's pretty good. I can't say that she sleeps through the night all the time - about half the time, she wakes up between 11 and 12, I feed her and snuggle for a few minutes, and she goes right back to sleep. She did STTN last night, then fell back asleep a short 2 hours later, and took a 2.5 hour nap! :eek: I have no idea why, as she usually doesn't take her first nap until at least 3 hours after she wakes up, and it is typically a 1.5 hour nap. Oh well, I'll take it! And she also fell asleep in her carseat on the way home - which is also a rare occurrence - so she got another 30 minute nap in the afternoon.

Food? I'm envious of all the good eaters out there. We've been encouraging her to try feeding herself with a spoon. But if we try to guide her spoon to the bowl or to her mouth, she freaks out, throws the spoon on the floor and starts wailing. :confused: And finger foods: if it is not a cracker (she likes Annie's Organic Bunny Grahams) or a puff, forget it. But she's not picky about being fed a variety of foods, so I'm not sure if this is a non-issue (for now).

Funny story about her lunch today (thankfully, this isn't the typical scenario):

Me: C'mon Maya, take a bite of oatmeal. You like oatmeal!
DH: Maya, open your mouth, honey - Daddy needs to go back to work
Maya --- clamps her mouth shut, turns almost completely around in her seat
[Repeat above for at least 5 minutes]
Me: Okay fine, how about a YoBaby?

Maya, happily bouncing up and down: [I]baby! baby! baby! baby!
[And then of course, she practically unhinges her jaw to open her mouth up wide.]

I think she has us figured out! :rolleyes:

We finally added breakfast to her daily routine, as well as a snack or two if there is time between BF and naps. I haven't been happy with her weight gain - she just doesn't eat enough to keep up with all her activity. So I've been giving her a kid's vitamin-enriched powder mixed with whole milk (Nature's Plus Animal Parade). I do think it has cut into my supply a bit, but since she has started gaining some weight, I'm okay with that. I feel pretty confident that she's getting a well-balanced diet, with or without the "milkshake", but she just needs some more calories. With BF, she's too much of a grazer to get "the good stuff" :p - except for the first and last feedings of the day, she would rather go play.

So that is about it for us. I hope everyone had a nice Monday! :) Looking forward to seeing everyone's Halloween pictures in a few weeks...

[Bawstinn]

linsleyd - we've pretty much always had a night time routine. Bath, nursing, bed. When he was younger, bath was just splashing around most nights. Now that I try and give him cereal every night, a bath is a necessity as he really gets into it - literally.

Madeleine and I have just started including him in on a bedtime story this month, but some nights he is already asleep. He starts really getting fussy at 6 and she doesn't go to bed until 7:30. He's also started getting grabby this month so she isn't pleased that he is grabbing the pages, the book, etc while I am reading.

[helios7]

Hello mommies...

Greetings from dairy free land. :rolleyes: Still getting used to it, but overall things are much better. And the changes in his... output... are amazing. So I'm pretty sure we've had this issue for some time. I'm just taking comfort in the fact that he seems happy and healthy, so I don't think I've stunted his growth too much! :p

We've had a big week (yes, the same one he was sick in!). This weekend he hit several milestones including crawling (!!!), waving, clapping hands and cementing pointing in terms of requesting objects as well as just observing (ie pointing for his sippy cup). The nursing strike has also abated and he will now nurse again during daylight hours. :rolleyes: He's just on the move constantly, and it's fun to see. Although I really need to find those socket thingys and get going on some childproofing! :eek: Here's a pic DH took this weekend of our man on the move.
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs267.snc1/9417_1226536313000_1516817069_604501_2978527_n.jpg

Sleeping is going better overall, although he's teething again. How do I know? Up every 2 hours like clockwork. :rolleyes: Tooth 7 is visibly on it's way, perhaps 8 is looming? We had a couple nights of only one or two wakeups before, which I think may be his new MO. I did read somewhere that food sensitivities can lead to night waking - perhaps I'm just too hopeful that things will have changed. But overall, naps are back to normal and bedtime is back to normal so I'm much happier. (Although he did take almost an hour to go to sleep just now as he was sitting up playing so it will be interesting to see how his new skills affect sleep).

Linsley - I remember dying to start a routine/schedule but somehow we just fell into it naturally. We did discover the 2 hour rule for napping and establish a bedtime around 11 weeks, and that was awesome. Putting Quinn down around 7-8 (at the time - now it's earlier) felt magical as DH and I got our evenings back. But, you're going to have a challenge around your schedule. Hopefully you'll find a bedtime that works for her and allows you to see her a bit.

Tami - sorry to hear Maya's still not loving the food. I think the "milkshake" sounds like a great plan, I know several moms of "peanuts" who do something similar. How much does she weigh these days? No, I'm not sure what he had but I think the fever was too shortlived for flu. I'm holding off on the sitter for now, $15 is too much and I'm doing better. I get overwhelmed when DH is busy (or we're busy) on weekends and I don't get some "break". But it's been better the past two weekends, and I'm feeling better. 24-7 just catches up after a while... I'm sure you know what I mean!

Jori - yikes! 10-3 every night? You can't catch a break! A tough pregnancy, and now a tough sleeper! I hope he starts liking sleep a bit more soon.

Maria - love the picture! Quinn was wearing that outfit yesterday (in a slightly bigger size). :)

BethG - so sorry nursing is still difficult. You are a trooper to be still at it! I thought of you as we came home from the city Friday past Rockland County. We'll have to do a playdate sometime...

Michelle - Yes, I backed off the sheep's milk/feta. I had a little on Sunday AM, and he had three loose diapers that day. So it's not worth it. DH just scored a whole bunch of cheese! :) I hope the napping goes better... I don't know what I'd do if Quinn didn't nap in his crib. I'd lose my mind!

Ashley - So, as a fellow mom of a "not the best sleeper", do you find when Matt takes unexpectedly long naps you "worry"? I think I'll be up half the night if and when Quinn sleeps through the night as I'll think he's suffocated at least 10 times. I wonder when, or if that will ever go away. I was just wondering if I'm alone in those feelings still....

Okay, time to get something done while the boy sleeps. Although a cup of tea and Project Runway on the DVR sounds much more enticing.... :D

[Pony]

Ashley - So, as a fellow mom of a "not the best sleeper", do you find when Matt takes unexpectedly long naps you "worry"? I think I'll be up half the night if and when Quinn sleeps through the night as I'll think he's suffocated at least 10 times. I wonder when, or if that will ever go away. I was just wondering if I'm alone in those feelings still....

This made me laugh. The past 2 nights, Evelyn has not woken up w/in 45 minutes of putting her down. I went in both nights to make sure she was breathing :).

[helios7]

This made me laugh. The past 2 nights, Evelyn has not woken up w/in 45 minutes of putting her down. I went in both nights to make sure she was breathing :).

Excellent. I'm glad I'm not alone. :)

[Beth G.]

Hey, Tami, Michael said "yo-ga" today!

How does everyone wipe their baby's face? Michael is pretty messy after his solids and I use a washcloth, but his face is irritated. Any other suggestions?

Crazy week here. There is coxsackie in Michael's room at day care, so we have held him out starting today for the rest of the week because of the wedding Sunday. I hope he is not already infected. DH watched him today, we are splitting the next two days (each working half day) and Friday I'm off. So much for my day of pre-wedding pampering, although I will still go for the mani/pedi and DH will watch him then.

[tholbrook]

I think I'll be up half the night if and when Quinn sleeps through the night as I'll think he's suffocated at least 10 times. I wonder when, or if that will ever go away. I was just wondering if I'm alone in those feelings still....

No, not alone - but I've learned the hard way to not check on Maya during the night unless there is a good reason to: every single time I go up and look in on her, she's sound asleep - and wakes up less than 5 minutes later. Like she sensed I was there, so she has to wake up and see me.

But I still freak out a little if she sleeps longer than I expect her to. Like this morning - I called DH when I was on my way home at 7:30 a.m. and Maya was still asleep. She had gone to bed at 7 the night before, and this was really unusual for her to sleep so long. She was happily bouncing around in her crib by the time I got home at 7:45, so all was well.

Glad things have improved at your house, Heather - even though you had to give up dairy. Ah, the sacrifices you've made for Quinn! No sleep, no cheese ... :p Hope he appreciates it when he gets older!

Beth G - too cute on the "yo-ga"! I don't know if it's a good thing or bad thing when they can tell us exactly what they want! ;) We wipe Maya's face with either a damp washcloth or papertowel after meals. Since she doesn't eat much on her own :o, there isn't too much of a mess (usually).
Ugh, I hope Michael doesn't get sick. Have fun at the wedding this weekend!

[acginkc]

Hello from another weary warrior. This week and next are insane at work with corporate visits so the only time I have to post is when I can't fall asleep after feeding the baby.

Matt turned 8 months yesterday which just baffles the mind. Now if only he'll decide that sleeping is his newest trick :cool:. We had another really rough night on Monday. He was up no less than 5 times. I was a zombie by morning and DH even got up with him 2 of the times. I hate teething. My MIL gets in town tomorrow so there is no rest in sight as I have to get this mess of a house clean.

We tried blueberries the other day and other than only an acceptable food right before a bath, he LOVES them. I think he could eat his weight in those things.

Tami- I look forward to the time when he sleeps long enough for me to even start to worry ;). You give me hope that someday I'll get to sleep again. Glad the milkshakes are working out. My niece drinks Ensure daily because she needs the extra calories and she's doing great. And I loved the FB video.

Beth- We use a wet paper towel or a wet cloth diaper (no worries, we only use disposable on the other end of him so no cross contamination ;)). Matt has really sensitive skin so we tend to lube him up with some Aquaphor at night. Hope Michael stays healthy for the weekend. I can't wait to see pics of him in his tux.

Heather- Yay for Quinn's week of milestones. We are working on clapping and waving here and he looks at us like we are crazy. Well those stretches of sleep are so rare I don't have a ton of experience :D, but yes, I'm always trying to figure out the "formula". Ok, he only woke up 2 times that night, how long were his naps, how much did he eat, did I feed him something different, etc. And if he does take a longer stretch or nap (the last few weekends we've gotten some 2-3 hour naps) I'm constantly peering in his door, looking on the webcam or sneaking in.

linsley- Well as you may be able be able to tell from my posts, I am no sleep expert, but...we started Matt's bedtime routine when we moved him to his crib at about 3 months. We don't really have a really rigid routine, partially because my work schedule varies so much, but we've got our own little pattern. As for bedtime he kind of picked his own as we just watched his behavior and put him down when he was tired. It's gradually gotten earlier and is now at 7:30 (which is about as early as I would want it as I often times don't get home much before that).

Jori- Welcome to Ari. I'm so sorry his days and nights are swapped. Matt was was the same (I sometimes wonder if he isn't still). I'm sure it's even harder with another little one at home.

Maria- Love the picture.

So I've been waiting for my chance to get some fun "seasonal" pictures of Matt and Sunday was the day. Here's the best, but you can see all of them here (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=326179&id=503150570&l=7e9b8efe60)
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs237.snc1/8432_310508395570_503150570_9364598_1286724_n.jpg

[Bawstinn]

I had a thought this morning and thought I'd pop on real quick - anyone giving iron drops? I remember the doctor mentioning them with Madeleine but nothing was said at Christopher's last appointment. Maybe she didn't start until 6 mo. I can't remember when we started but I remember having to mix them in her food to get them in her.

[Beth G.]

Maria, our ped had blood drawn to test the iron at the 9 month appointment. No deficiency, so no supplement by drops required. We are doing iron fortified cereal twice a day.

[tholbrook]

Maria, our ped had blood drawn to test the iron at the 9 month appointment. No deficiency, so no supplement by drops required. We are doing iron fortified cereal twice a day.
Same here: 9 month appointment, with no issues. But we stopped giving Maya cereal when she was about 7 months due to horrible constipation (she seems to be prone to it for some reason). She eats a lot of beans and lentils instead.

Another question while we're on the topic: anyone giving Vitamin D supplements? Maya's pediatrician recommended them once the weather started keeping us indoors. Maya's "milkshakes" have about 25% RDA, so I'm wondering if we should start adding it (the milk she drinks does not have Vitamin D added). Any suggestions?

[Beth H]

Hello all. Where to begin? First, Will is crawling! He started in earnest about a week and a half ago. His favorite thing is to crawl around the house, laughing, chasing after our cats. Needless to say, they're thrilled with this new development. :rolleyes: It's so fun to watch him, though.

Eating is going OK, but finger foods still aren't going at all. I have been placing things on his tray with every meal, but he just doesn't seem interested. It's a bit frustrating, especially since he'll pick up a microscopic piece of lint from the floor and eat it, but won't pick up an actual piece of food! (other than puffs) Oh well - I guess I'll just keep being patient.

Sleeping has been absolutely awful for the past several weeks - he's been waking a lot at night, and worse, once he's up, it's taking a long time to get him to settle back down in his crib. (I often go into the nursery and find him sitting straight up in the crib - I'm not sure he knows how to lay back down.) He's always fallen asleep well in his crib, even when he was a few days old, so this is an unwelcome new development. The whole "crying it out" thing is beckoning again - it's hard to function with just a few hours of sleep at night.

His 9 month appointment went well - he's off the growth charts and healthy. He was tested both for anemia and lead (since we live in a house built in the 1920s). He's fine for both.

I'm popping in at work so won't go through personals - but hope everyone is doing well, and I sympathize with those others who are having major sleep difficulties right now!

[Beth G.]

Tami, we are using a prescription supplement called PolyVitamin Drops with Flouride. It contains 400 IU of D, (100% RDA) among other things. Prior to 7 months (when we had the 6 month appointment) we were using Tri-Vi-Sol drops since Michael was 2 weeks old. They are non prescription A-C-D. There is also a just D one called D visol. Both are OTC. We have unflouridated water hence the prescription drop.

[NewMrsG]

Hi all - I just wanted to pop in with a question. I'm wondering what your babies were like as newborns in terms of social awareness. Ari seems not very socially aware. He doesn't seem to need much physical contact, doesn't make a lot of eye contact, and it doesn't seem to make much difference to him if someone is around or if he's left alone. I honestly can't remember how Macy was (she's almost 3 1/2) but she was a much needier baby - always wanting to be held, etc. Ari is 6 weeks old today, but was a preemie, so wasn't due until last week. His pediatrician is unconcerned, but I'm curious to hear how your babies were or have been. I know it could have something to do with his preemie status and he may simply be a lot more laid-back than his sister. Or of course it's something terrible and awful and life-threatening :rolleyes:

[MinEaston]

Hi all - I just wanted to pop in with a question. I'm wondering what your babies were like as newborns in terms of social awareness. Ari seems not very socially aware. He doesn't seem to need much physical contact, doesn't make a lot of eye contact, and it doesn't seem to make much difference to him if someone is around or if he's left alone. I honestly can't remember how Macy was (she's almost 3 1/2) but she was a much needier baby - always wanting to be held, etc. Ari is 6 weeks old today, but was a preemie, so wasn't due until last week. His pediatrician is unconcerned, but I'm curious to hear how your babies were or have been. I know it could have something to do with his preemie status and he may simply be a lot more laid-back than his sister. Or of course it's something terrible and awful and life-threatening :rolleyes:

For perspective, Nicholas is 7 weeks tomorrow.

Social awareness seems to really start around 6 weeks, from what I have read, so with regards to the eye contact, I would imagine that because he arrived early, it will take a little longer. N is making eye contact and we're starting to see a lot of grinning!

With regards to needing physical contact or seeming not to care whether he's alone or with company, he may in fact be more laid-back.

But, honestly, from my own personal experience so far, I fully believe that most of it is that Mama is more laid-back with #2. Seriously. I thought I was relaxed with Anna. Clearly, I was not!

[tholbrook]

Happy 1st Birthday to Bekki's Andy and Will !!!
Hope you all had a wonderful day!
:D:D:D

[tholbrook]

Jori, I have no experience in this area, so take this for what it's worth: I have read that preemies will take extra time (typically, the number of weeks that they were delivered early) to catch up on "milestones" of full-term babies. So I don't think anything is wrong with Ari :) but that you'll probably start seeing the social awareness around 10-12 weeks or so.
Honestly, I can't remember when Maya started interacting with us more (isn't that awful? :o) - she was a really demanding newborn, and needed to be held all the time. I do know she started smiling around 7 weeks, and everything started getting better after that! :D

[BakerJane]

Thanks for the info on the formula, I think we're going to try Baby's Only Formula.

Jori - My dd was born at 36 weeks (she's now 10 months) and she didn't seem to be very socially aware right away either. We held her a lot but that was because we wanted to, not that she needed it (she's our first child, first grandchild on my side and first granddaughter on DH's side - so there was much excitement and family visits). Also, when she did want to be held it didn't seem like she cared who was holding her - it could have been me, DH, grandma, etc., - as long as they had food for her.

Aside from preemies taking an extra few weeks to catch up with other babies, I think it has to do with the NICU stay. DD was in the NICU for two weeks. While we visited everyday and held her while we definitely didn't have as much physical contact with her as we would if she was at home. Just my thoughts.

Btw, DD has caught up with other babies her age and is developing right on schedule now.

[Beth G.]

Hey everyone. We survived the wedding! There was actually a line of people waiting to see Michael. The week out of day care included a major nap strike, so we are exhausted, and now I'm really stressed trying to get caught up at work. Meanwhile Michael has been busy with milestones, my favorite being finger feeding. How nice is our dinner now that he sits next to us in the high chair eating his puffs or Cheerios. Today he started crawling with his tummy off the floor rather than slithering around.

I didn't get to pump the day of the wedding at one point for 7 hours. I don't leak so I never thought to put pads in my dress. I am so lucky that nothing embarrassing happened!

Will try to post pictures (although there is not a single one of me, DH, and Michael together) and further updates and personals, um, in the November thread ;)

[helios7]

Hello mommies!

Life is trucking along in our neck of the woods. I'm looking forward to heading back to Brooklyn for a mommies group halloween party. I hope great pictures will be taken, assuming we can get them all to stay still long enough!

We're really having a tough time with... wait for it... sleep right now. :DI'm wondering if his first year molars are on their way, because it's been really extreme and I haven't seen anything new up front. He digs at the back left though, and is gnawing (too hard for my comfort) when nursing on that side. And the wakeups - 8 + times a night. His night - so last night he slept from 6:15-7:45, with 8 wakeups in between. I feel so badly for him, as he wakes screaming and is visibly exhausted. Rubbing his eyes -- he's barely awake but still it interupts his sleep. And he's not sleeping as well in the car too. Tami - any first molar experience to share?

We're holding steady at waving, crawling....and our late nap is over with screams. Okay! Got to go!

[Beth G.]

DH walked into the day care room today and found Michael pulled up and standing. They said it was the first time they had seen it also. I can't believe how many milestones he's hitting all at once.

Quick "cute" story. One night last week Michael woke up at 1:45 am. I nursed him, then sat him on my lap to pat his back a few times before I put him back in the crib. He whips his head around to DH's side of the bed and... waves. Although it was very cute, I knew it was not a good sign that he would go back to sleep. Took over an hour to settle him down.

Travel tip. We were very anxious that the other hotel guests not be disturbed by any crying during the night. Took advantage of those wheels on the pack and play and rolled it back and forth as part of our soothe to sleep routine. I don't think that's why it has wheels, but it's a good feature.

Heather - 8 wakeups, ouch. Hope Quinn sleeps better tonight.

[tholbrook]

Tami - any first molar experience to share?

Aw Heather - so very sorry you and Quinn are having such a rough time. 8 wakeups? That's gotta be a new record :( - I hope you've been able to at least catch some naps during the day. I've heard that getting molars is the pits - so I suppose it is certainly possible that is what is happening. Does Quinn have all/most of his other teeth now?

I can't offer any advice from experience, (un)fortunately ... Maya has fewer teeth than even most of the younger babies on this thread, I think. We're STILL holding at 5 teeth, with the matching 6th tooth nowhere in sight. Are you giving Quinn anything to help with the discomfort? Our pediatrician recommended giving Tylenol AND Motrin when things get really bad ... they work differently so it's supposedly okay to do this. So when we're going through teething, we give Maya Tylenol right before dinner, and Motrin an hour later before bed... seems to help.

I'll echo Beth and say I hope Quinn sleeps (A LOT) better tonight. Good luck!

Beth - that is cute about the waving, although I hope it's not a sign of things to come (wanting to play in the middle of the night). Glad you were able to find a use for the wheels on the Pack-and-Play - whatever works, right? ;)

Hope everyone is doing well - this thread has been slower than usual lately...
Wishing everyone a fun Halloween weekend with your little ones (and hoping that we'll have decent weather instead of the rain being forecasted).

[Beth H]

How did it get to be the end of October already?

Things here are good - Beth G, Will also pulled himself up to standing for the first time ever at daycare yesterday. I was surprised - he hasn't seemed that close to it at home (he's been pulling up to his knees for a while).

Since last Friday, we've been doing a Ferber "cry it out" thing. (First night, let him cry 5 minutes, then leave the room then wait 10 minutes, etc.) It was awful Friday and Saturday nights. Then Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday nights he actually slept through the night (from 7 pm - 5:30 am). This morning he woke up at 4:30 am and I went in there, although that probably is going to de-rail things a bit. But - the sleep issues are improving. Heather, I really sympathize - 8 times a night would be so tough. Just when you lay down and try to sleep, and hear that cry again is very difficult.

Eating - still the same mix of frustrations with him not showing much interest in either finger food or chunky spoon fed food. I'm trying to be patient, but it's tough when the two little girls in the daycare who are his age are already sitting at the little table eating. He's a ways away from that.

He's just so fun right now, though - the crawling is neat, and he's so enthusiastic about things.

Hope everyone else is doing well and gearing up for first Halloweens!

[bekki]

I'll update with visuals, as that's all I can muster right now, it's been a long morning. We've got two sick boys and it's rough:

Yikes! Walking: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GzoXnv6Mks

Wow! First Birthday: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2ugAVwsADY

http://www.adamlyon.com/gallery/d/6953-2/wIMG_1634.jpg

Cute! Halloween Costumes:
http://www.adamlyon.com/gallery/d/6907-2/wIMG_1556.jpg http://www.adamlyon.com/gallery/d/6919-2/wIMG_1564.jpg

[helios7]

Thanks guys.. last night was a bit better. He went down at 7, woke at 11, 1, 2 and 5. He was up at 7:15, and I was going to go to him but the complaints (and it was complaining, not crying) started to space out so I let him go back to sleep on his own. He's regularly sleeping in until past 8 these days (so not looking forward to daylight savings this weekend! :( ) which I'm really liking with these nights.

That's interesting about the tylenol/motrin. I will keep it in mind. Tuesday night we didn't give him motrin before bed, and we can see how well that turned out. So it is definitely pain. Last night I made sure to give it to him before bath/stories etc. so it had some time to kick in, and it went much better. But I will remember that doubling up might be okay if it gets any worse.

So jealous of the puller ups - we're up to our knees. Wait a minute, my life is infinitely harder now he's crawling. What am I saying?? :D:D:D

We went to the playspace this morning, and he was fascinated by the wheels on various toys. Ah, the love of trucks has begun! He was also taken by a two year old, and crawled after her several times. It was really cute.

Tami - I'm not sure how many teeth he has. He definitely has 7, but there's one on the front that still needs to come in. I swear, this kid is just eternally teething. Maybe he'll wake up one day and sleep through the night as if to say, that was all it is! Or maybe I'm dreaming.

Beth H - if my one day Quinn will magically sleep through the night dream never comes to pass, then I suppose we'll have to consider sleep training one day in the future. How awful is awful? Did you get any sleep? I agree, crawling is fun. Although I'm quickly learning how behind the curve on babyproofing we are!

BethG - Quinn likes to push the pack and play back and forth. :rolleyes: He's big on pushing things these days (high chairs, toys) and the pack and play is one of his favorite things to push on. Quinn is waving up a storm too, and I'm thrilled he's learned to wave upon hearing "Hi" or "bye". That i just noticed this week. They're getting so big! Hope he learns to practice waving at more opportune times.

I feel like there was more I wanted to say, but I'm too tired to think of it. :D:o Hi Michelle! I hope all's well and that you enjoyed your wine. :) Hope everyone I missed is doing well as well, especially the little ones.

ETA - BEKKI! Love the videos. The boys are so big!! I love the difference in their reactions to the cakes. The one on the right dove right in, whereas the left guy was more cautious. And the walking - adorable!

[acginkc]

Hi all. I just got home from work so thought I'd do a quick post while I pumped. I have been working a ton of long hours the last 2 weeks and am feeling like a horrible mom. i only saw Matt for 30 minutes on Wed which was so hard, today was a bit better, but tomorrow we'll have very limited time again. But it should get back to "normal" after that.

We are also in the perpetual teething cycle. He's down to 1-2 wake ups a night, but will add an extra wakeup on bad teething nights and doesn't go back down easily. I'm feeling extra tired lately, perhaps the 8 months of spotty sleep (even longer if you count pregnancy) are finally starting to catch up with me. And naps are still painfully short, even at home. This kid just never wants to sleep.

Food is going great and we are trying more finger foods. Tofu was not a huge hit, but I think it was more of a texture thing. We'll try it again sometime I'm sure.

So he's getting braver with the standing, often letting go and standing alone for a few seconds. Not really steady yet, but he's working on it. Still no clapping or waving which I'm really looking forward to. Anything he'll do without changing locations sounds great right now. ;) We are getting Mama and Dada pretty regularly now, though we aren't completely confident that he's saying them knowingly every time.

So we got a "write up" from daycare yesterday. Apparently Matt bit someone. I really hope this is not a regular thing. I've already got the snotty kid, please don't make him a biter too.

Ok, about to fall asleep so I'll be back for personals...in November probably. Happy Halloween everyone.

[Pony]

Hi Everyone....

I feel like a bad mom. Evelyn doesn't have a costume!!!!!!!!!!!! :(:o I was looking into buying one from another mom, but missed my opportunity. We went to Target and there was nothing left except a very tacky unicorn costume. Carl was going to make her an owl costume, but ended up running out of time. We do have a pumpkin onesie we will probably put her in. Oh well.

I think Carl overdosed Evelyn on puffs the other day. :rolleyes: He was trying to get dinner worked on and kept putting them on her highchair. She spit up puffs, he looked at how many were gone from the container and realized he over did it. oops!

She is doing very well. Her 8th tooth is poking through. She is still refusing the crib and sleep is about the same. She has been pulling up to stand for a while now, but very unstable on her own. We've been reading her the same book at night. Every other page has the character doing something exciting, so we clap and say, "yay"!!! She has gotten used to it and claps as soon as we pull the book out. She also knows to clap with every other page. It is soooo adorable. She loves this big board book we have with different animals. She is always turning the pages and kissing the cats. Love it!

I gave her some butternut and lentils this week and she loved them. Yay! Carl said the lentils came out looking as they did when they went in her mouth :p.

What are you all doing about photos now that everything is digital? Are you printing them, storing them, etc???? I used to look through our pictures growing up. My mom had them in a big box and it was always fun to look through them throughout the years. I've barely printed any photos. I am making a photo book from shutterfly of her first year to give to her and will do that each year. We have them stored on an external hard drive in case of computer disaster, but I still feel like they could easily vanish.

Beth G-I'm glad he did well without you at bedtime a while back. Did your dad make it to the wedding? Yay on milestones!

Ashley-Glad he is such a good eater! I hate busy days like that..I had one on Tuesday and only got to see Evelyn for about an hour, if that. Sucks. Evelyn is a biter, but she doesn't usually bite anyone but me. Sorry about the "write up".

Maria-great picture. Christopher looks so big! Madeleine looks so cute...not tired at all! Are the colds gone from your house? We aren't doing any iron drops here, but do give rice cereal a few times a week.

Tami-I love hearing/seeing all the things Maya is doing. She is such a doll. I'm glad sleep is going better!! We aren't doing Vitamin D either, but we are in Houston. I would recommend it as there is soooo much new research coming out about Vitamin D preventing numerous diseases.

Jori- Welcome! Wow, what a stressful time you have had. I hope Ari is sleeping more at night????

linsleyd-Glad Ameila is doing better. That vacuum sounds awesome. We didn't start much of a routine until I went back to work at 12 weeks. And it still is a loose routine..... How are things going?

Heather-Hope you are eating lots of yummy dairy free goodies!!! Congrats on all the milestones this past month. I can't believe his bday month is here....ahhh! Two days this week she woke up around 6pm from her 2nd nap. We put her down late those nights, so she went down around 9pm. She slept much better those 2 nights and had longer stretches in btwn wakeups. Last night, I got her down around 8pm and we were up A LOT and could have been around 8 times! She also is getting a tooth in. We aren't doing any sleep training and I'm wondering when she will just get it? Is he taking 1 or 2 naps a day? Very cute about him flirting w/ a 2 year old. Yes, I did enjoy my big glass of wine, ha!

Beth H-congrats on the crawling! Sorry about the bad sleep, but looks like you all are getting some sleep now w/ some ferber methods! It seems we all are having trouble with sleep.

Bekki-great pictures! they are adorable.

[Pony]

and here are some recent pictures...

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce03b3127ccef839057c9e5700000060O08AaOGzhy1aNQ e3nwc/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce03b3127ccef8388727be0100000060O08AaOGzhy1aNQ e3nwc/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[Beth G.]

Quick question. Has anyone found/seen any really warm soft soled (non walker) boots? I need something to put on Michael's feet when they are outside in the colder weather at day care. I don't want to buy a footed snowsuit since he should start walking during the winter. We are still just squeaking by with socks now but I need to get something very soon. Everything I see in the stores is hard soled for walkers.

Michael came home with the sniffles yesterday and I have them this morning. Although he normally only wakes once a night the last two have been tough. Last night he was up at 11, 12, 3, and 5 then up for good at 7:45. I nursed him at 12, 3, 5, and 8 and I'm having trouble pumping now for Monday's bottles.

Heather - don't be too jealous of the standing. It has not been duplicated and I didn't even see it. Back to just getting up on the knees. Love the picture of Quinn crawling (and his sweatshirt :)) - he looks so focused. When is the Halloween party? Glad he will nurse during the day now. Michael is hit and miss but was better during the week out of day care. I think he just is in the habit of getting the bottle during the day and likes his routine. We will see how he is over the weekend.

Tami - Michael actually hadn't started yobaby when he said yoga. He was on the changing table. So I think he was trying to explain that he did not want to be there and preferred to be on the mat doing his down dogs or in the bouncer doing his "stretching". Count Michael as one younger baby that Maya has plenty more teeth than. He has 1.5. I don't really feel like the second is out yet although it's there. I can't be sure what is happening on top; I am not allowed access. It seems not to be too bad, but it's hard to know when middle of the night crying is from teething or just the indignity of having to go back to sleep.

Bekki - great pictures and LOVED the videos!

Beth H. - funny they both stood up on the same day. We also had the same experience, nowhere close, just on the knees and them, boom. Stood up. But not since then. Sorry to hear you've had so much trouble with sleep. Hope the Ferber helps. I had a friend who started Ferber without much luck at 6 months and at 9 or so her son just magically started STTN. I have heard in general 9 months is roughly when boys start on their own. Hopefully the combination of the two will help you.

Ashley - hope you can get some rest soon! Hopefully the biting is just a teething thing and will end when the cycle does.

Michelle - I am pretty compulsive. I do Shutterfly as well (prints into albums since I love to look at the prints too), and I have a backup hard drive that I update periodically that we then leave at DHs office. When we are at my parents, I dump our camera onto my dad's giant hard drive. And for good measure, I picked up a really cheap new 4GB card for the camera, so the full 1 GB card from the first 7 or so months is in our safe deposit box at the bank. Did I mention I'm compulsive? My previous hard drive went on me 5 years ago and I hadn't backed up recently so I learned my lesson. I like Shutterfly for prints since they put the file name and date on the back of the print so it's super easy to organize into albums. I was so late with the costume because of the wedding. There was only one (Tigger) left in the store in his size and it was full price - all the others were $5. I had to buy it since there is a parade at day care. My dad and aunt were both at the wedding, although neither did any dancing. Cute pictures - she is really growing up!

Linsley - I have heard great things about the Animal, so glad it has helped Amelia.

Hi to Jori, Jane, Maria, and MinEaston and anyone else I've missed!

[helios7]

Beth - we just ordered Quinn some of these. (http://www.landsend.com/pp/Mukluk~174883_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::LKU&CM_MERCH=IDX_00003) They're more slippers but I think they would be fairly warm outside. I'm just not sure how durable they'd be crawling around outside.

The other thing I was thinking of was those baby ugg like boots I've seen about. Clearly these ones are pink (http://www.shoes.com/Shopping/productdetails.aspx?catalog_name=web&pg=5017179&p=07149&CMP=OTC-GoogleBase&partnerid=GoogleBase&cpc=GoogleBase&=campaign=Ugg&category=K&cpckw=Ugg+Kids+Erin+Inf/Tod+Shoe+(Baby+Pink)&CAWELAID=98948964) and would not do, but maybe it's a start....

I need to think about the same thing. The robeez are cute, but not warm. Quinn's had chilled toes on the few cold days we've had.

Not much new in my neck of the woods, and I need to get cracking on some vegan cupcakes to take to our first halloween party tomorrow. After a 2.5 hour nap this AM, Quinn is back down for nap #2. Here's hoping sleep will beget sleep!

[Beth H]

Just a quick post to try to (finally) upload a photo of Will in the pumpkin patch. He wore his dragon costume to school today - he looked so cute.

Happy Halloween!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce04b3127ccef82684b9f59500000040O08AYtWbZo3btw e3nwY/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

Well, the link is there but not the photo. Need to review again how to do that.

[Beth G.]

Thanks, Heather! Now that I look a little I see both Robeez and Bobux make boots too, and I also see those Uggs in a more boy appropriate color on google. I also saw these:

http://store.hazelwoodchildren.com/NUI_Organics_KINA_Collection_Kahu_Boots_p/nui17.htm

Now, everything I've seen ranges from $36-50. I don't think I spent that much on my own winter boots :eek:

I did see a 2 piece coat/snow pant combo at Century 21 in Manhattan that had snap on removable booties, which would have been perfect for now, but it was the last one and the jacket was 12 months and the bottom was 18 months. I am hoping to get to the NJ store and see if they still have it and then when he is ready for walker boots I can spend there (I think those are cheaper, too). So I haven't even cut the tags yet on his bootie-less coat/snow pant set and we've had a few days that he has probably needed more than a sweatshirt outside.

[tholbrook]

Wanted to do a few personals to finish up the October thread …

Bekki – I loved both of the videos. It’s amazing that Will and Andy are identical, yet so different in their approach to new things: Andy (I’m guessing, since you’ve said he is the cautious one) is examining his cake carefully, with an occasional taste of frosting, while Will has half his cake torn apart and is shoveling it into his mouth --- too funny! Hope both your boys are feeling better this week.

Beth H – we did a modified cry-it-out too, but we respond to her based on the “type” of cry, if that makes sense. When she’s mad/protesting, we’ll let her fuss for awhile before checking in. But if it is a sad/scared/needy cry (this is usually in the middle of the night, rather than at bedtime), I go upstairs and cuddle/nurse her for a little bit. So far, it doesn’t seem like it has derailed our progress at all, although some nights are better than others. My opinion is that any plan needs a little flexibility :) – especially if they will be teething until the age of 2! And I love the picture of Will with the pumpkins. I don’t think I’ve seen a picture in awhile – such a handsome little boy (and he's grown so much)!
I’m still with you on the frustration with solid food. Maya has made no progress lately – I’m not sure what to do, now that she really needs those calories. Aside from the puffs and crackers, the only thing we’ve had luck with is thin vegetable “pancakes” (shredded veggies mixed with egg and a little bit of cheese and whole wheat flour).

Heather – I really hope sleep is going better at your house this week. I loved the pictures of Quinn on Facebook! He looked happy, so I’m guessing he is feeling better now? I sure hope so --- I thought of you when we had our rough night this past weekend (Maya was up 3 times, which is nothing compared to Quinn’s 8 :eek:).

Michelle – re: digital pictures --- I make a CD or DVD of all our pictures every few months and store them at work. I also have most of them backed up on an 8GB flash drive. Plus some pictures are stored on Photobucket. And Facebook. And I’ve emailed at least 75% of them to my dad, so they are on his computer. :) And I finally had about 150 pictures printed and put them into photo albums. So I think we’ve covered the pictures from all angles! Love the pictures (as always) and Evelyn clapping during her stories!

Beth G – I had to laugh when you said you store your backup digital pictures in a bank lockbox … we do the same with the flash drive! Hope Michael has gotten over his sniffles. Last year, to keep Maya’s feet warm, we doubled up on socks, but we’re struggling with options this year. Depending on where we are going, she likes to walk around a little bit. She does have 1 pair of fleece-lined hard soled boots --- but I can’t get her into her carseat while she’s wearing them. She either has to have her feet elevated, or she has to sit cross-legged. Neither look particularly comfortable while she’s strapped into a seat, so I have to wait to put on her boots until we get to our destination. Quite a PITA! She also has a pair of fleece booties from Old Navy, but I’m not sure how warm they really are. I've found a lot of really cute stuff on eBay - including both of Maya's winter coats - so that might be another place to look

Ashley – I hope you get to spend more time with Matt this week. I just posted on the November thread that I am only getting to spend an hour or two with Maya each day for the next 3 weeks, and it is so hard to leave her all day. My DH would be jealous of “dada” – that still is not one of Maya’s words.