March Moms 2006 - Year One, Part Two

[ShannonGH]

Thanks for educating me about yogurt ladies. Hmm, I don't care for regular yogert either so maybe I should give fage a try!

[tgal]

I mentioned Fage awhile back. I started dd on it close to 7 months and she loved it. I love it too, I have my skim fage with bananas and honey. Dd gets the whole milk kind. I haven't mixed it with honey for her yet, waiting until after the 1 year mark. For her, I mix it with fruits, oatmeal or she even eats it plain. Don't know why, but I can't stomach other plain yogurts myself, but IMO fage is the best! Enjoy! Oh, and some regualar grocery stores sell it in their health food section. Whole foods also sells it.

Anyone doing cottage cheese, Eva loves that as well. Since she won't let me feed her anything lately, I give her the large curd and she can do that as finger food.

[junkinmytrunk]

Yby1: No TJ's in my extremely rural part of New Jersey. I **miss** it sooooooooo much!!

AmyChris: I am so glad to hear he's doing better. Pierson's pediatrician in Los Angeles, oy, I did NOT like him one bit. So condescending. ZERO bedside manner. Treated DS like a thing, rather than a baby. Sloughed off his colic, etc. I ended up switching to his partner, whom I really liked, until we moved to NJ. I absolutely HEART my ped here - hoping you like the new doctor better.

Okay girls, I'm really freaking. Pierson really gags on nearly everything that's NOT a pureed veggie or fruit. I've been buying Earth's Best First Soups in hopes it would prime his palatte for chunkier foods but he pukes it ALL up. What do you guys make of it? I'm sure he'll eventually eat table food, right???

[Bernie & Matt]

Where do you find whole milk yougurt? I know Yo-Baby, but I was hoping to get it in larger containers, different brand, less sugar, better price and all that stuff. I've looked in all our local grocery stores, but all I find are the less low-fat ones, if less low-fat is even possible :rolleyes:

[Christy5599]

HI Bernie,

I'm not sure if you'll find it in your area, but Stonyfield Farm makes a whole milk plain and vanilla in larger containers. I can find that in my local grocery but if you've already checked yours that may not be so helpful. Perhaps at a health food store then?

[mom2amelia]

Bernie - we have Stonyfield, Horizon, and Brown Cow whole milk plain yogurt in our grocery store. Check the organcic refrigerated section of your store maybe? I think Dannon makes a whole milk yogurt too, if you don't care about organic. We get plain instead of flavored. To add flavor I mix it with fruit, and to add texture I mix in oatmeal. She'd eat it plain though.

[Bernie & Matt]

mom2amelia I've been mixing as well, although not with whole milk yougurt.

I guess I'm on a quest....stinks though since my organic grocery store isn't all that close...it's like having to go on a mission to get there :rolleyes:

[bunny nose]

Is it bad to give DS regular yogurt? I didn't know there were special ones and I sometimes share mine with him. I eat Yoplait thick and creamy. Vanilla, banana, strawberry, cherry. Is it bad for him?

[JennW]

karen, as far as I know it isn't bad for them. the whole milk ones just have more fat and calcium which is good for them plus they don't have sugar which some of the other ones have. But no, they aren't bad for him. Hope that helps!

[IUAlum]

Well, Seth has his first ear infection. Of course that coincided with the first night of my husband's week long business trip to Israel. Figures. He's a trooper, so I hope the antibiotics do their trick quickly.

GO BEARS!

[junkinmytrunk]

Hi Ladies,
Dragging us into the land of the living. Not much action in here :) these days.

FYI....Pierson had WICKED diarrhea from the FAGE -- my guess is that he's still lactose intolerant.

Please tell me I'm not the only mommy whose darling baby refuses ALL finger foods -- I'm really worried about this. Actually, it's anything textured. I feel like I'm doing something really wrong.

Okay, going to scrub bottles now, I'll check back later, gals! Have a great day and east coasters, STAY WARM - it's BRUTAL...(gosh I miss living in Southern California - my first winter back and it SUCKS!)

[Tracie]

junk AJ had a texture thing for a while. Dr said that it was perfectly normal, not to push it, and he probably would get more used to it when he got more teeth. He also suggested trying purees that had more texture. He will take a limited amount of finger foods now. Yay!

You're not doing anything wrong - some kids are just like that!

[junkinmytrunk]

Thanks, Trac! Makes me feel a little better.

FWIW, I have been doing chunkier purees; he feigns gagging and pukes it all up:rolleyes: -- can't wait till he gets over this!!

[dec27bride]

junk-he feigns gagging and pukes it all up. LOL, Arleigh used to do this. She was soooooo dramatic, I didn't think she'd ever get the hang of it. I think she just wasn't ready, b/c now she LOVES Cheerios, Goldfish, etc, more than the purees. So maybe it'll just take a while? For what it's worth, she still doesn't like the Stage 3's that are chunky...

[red_canuck]

Junk, Logan refuses all textured foods too, and spits out anythign with chunks. Fun times. I just keep offering, and one of these days I hope that he starts liking them more! I figure he won't be going ot colleg eon pureers, right? lol :p It's hard though, especially when younger babies are already eating crackers, and chicken nuggets, and we're still on pears and peaches :P To get Logan exposed to different tastes, we give him purees of what we're eating - spagetti sauce, chili, stew, ribs. He LOVEs the sauce, crazy kid :p

[ajb524]

I have to break the gerber puffs in half, because a whole puff will make him gag. I also tried to give him some cheese last week and he was not having any of that.
---------------------------------------
Sean's 1st Birthday is this Saturday!!! I can't believe he will be a year old. We're having his party on Saturday morning from 11:00-1:00. I'm expecting close to 30 people (maybe more). Mostly adults, but a few kids. I'll definitely be sure to post pics next week.

[amychris03]

Lisa
Did you see my reply to you in the Master Solids Thread when you posted there? I'm too lazy to retype it, but it is pretty normal. I gave you a couple of suggestions of things you could try (I used to work with kids with texture sensitivities). But like Tracie said... consistently offer it, but don't push it and make feeding a negative experience. That seems to make it worse in the long run if it really is more than just your run of the mill *weirded out by new textures* phase. Sam hates chunks in his baby food (gags big time at Stage 3's). I think a lot of kids think those are gross!

I can't believe we are about to have our first 1 year old!!!!:eek: Where has the time gone? Can't wait to hear about Sean's party!

[junkinmytrunk]

dec/red/ajb: thanks for the tips/reassurance.

amy: you know, i don't get any notification when threads i've subscribed to have new posts so i didn't realize you'd reply. i'll go back and read what you wrote - thanks in advance!!

------------------

In other news, Pierson is sick AGAIN!!! Another cold. Up most of the night. Going to try to grab a quick shower now. Poor little lamb.

Off to clean meeself up, miladies!

ETA: Amy -- great advice. He's definitely fine on the weight issue - last WBV he was in the 50th for weight and 90th for height. I think adding oatmeal to his fave purees will definitely help, along with the banana chunks. Today I tried an Earth's Best teething biscuit and after two sucks and two chews, he hurled it across the room. The good news is that he didn't gag after the sucks and chews. BTW I think he's totally grossed out by the #3 combos. Glad it's normal.

[tunibell]

Quick question about ear infections...is it possible to have one without a fever? Piper's had a mild cold all week but she has been in the *worst* mood for the past few days.

[IUAlum]

Tuni, Seth has an ear infection with NO symptoms, except for that he woke up screaming on Friday night and has had a lingering cold. I would take her in to get checked out if you suspect it.

[junkinmytrunk]

Tuni: Pierson had a double ear infection with no fever - he had a bad cold for about a week and a half and something in my gut told me to take him -- he just didn't seem right. He had a substantial double ear infection. I'd say bring her in, to be safe.

[Tracie]

Tuni My DS has also had an ear infection without a fever. The only symptoms he had were cold symptoms (stuffy and cough). Dr had me bring him in just to be on the safe side (He was only 7 weeks old!) and sure enough, ear infection.

[amychris03]

tuni: no fever here either. I figured it out (the first time) by pulling at the ears with no teeth popping through after a couple days, and waking up a lot at night. Then he started shaking his head, which I couldnt figure out if it was dancing or ear related. Still not sure on that one, it could be either :). It was shortly after a cold though.

[dec27bride]

tuni-Along the same lines as the others, yes, it's possible, I'd have her checked out. Before we got tubes, and Arleigh constantly had ear infections, every time she would have different symptoms. One time fever, the next time throwing up, no fever, etc...Hope Piper gets feeling better soon.


We found out yesterday that Arleigh has hand, foot and mouth disease. Now, poor DH, never having heard of such a thing, almost had a heart attack at the ped's office when they said 'disease', but they assured him that it's very common virus that most kids in daycare will end up with at some point. Unfortunately, there isn't anything they can do but let it run it's course. Luckily, her fever is gone, she seems to be feeling much better already.

Well, it's about tubby time, gotta go!

[jordan]

dec27bride: My niece had Hand, Foot & Mouth and I thought it sounded a ton worse than it was. I hope Arleigh is better soon.

Sorry to hear about the sick babies. I think Nathan is getting another cold or just a runny nose from teething. I can't wait for winter to be over and these colds to go away.

Also no sure who suggested the First Years Straw Cups... these were great. After the first night Nathan drinks like a champ out of these. His only problem is that when he stops sucking he opens his mouth and the milk falls out. He's getting better, but it was pretty funny.

Switching to Milk: I decided to just give Nate a glass of Milk on Sunday and he drank it down without a problem. I've been switching back and forth between Milk and formula basically to use up what we have. I tried to pass it along to Nate's cousin, but his Mom wasn't interested.

Hope everyone has a great day!

[tunibell]

Thanks for the responses everyone. I took her in late today and there is no ear infection but, to quote the doc directly, the gums surrounding her molars are "swollen like sausages." I guess that would explain the bitchiness! I'm glad I had her checked out, though; two of her five cousins have tubes.

We found out yesterday that Arleigh has hand, foot and mouth disease. Now, poor DH, never having heard of such a thing, almost had a heart attack at the ped's office when they said 'disease', but they assured him that it's very common virus that most kids in daycare will end up with at some point.

Yep, had the same reaction as your DH when my nephew (and my sister-in-law) came down with this. Very, very common - and, from what I hear, very miserable - I hope Arleigh feels better!

[tray622]

Just checking in...

dec27bride I am sorry about the diagnosis. I have heard about it a lot from family and it definitely sounds worse then it is. Hope she is yourself quickly!

I am just depressed. This year has been so tough on Jocey and there is no end in sight. I talked before about the reflux causing a chronic cough problem but when things appeared to be getting better it got worse. We have had a double ear infection for about a month and once cleared, if ever, we are looking at tubes. To top it off she is having reactions to her reflux meds and we arent sure what to do from here. She ended up aspirating some acid/spitup this weekend and we ended up in the ER. I am just at a loss. Zoey has only been to the doctor once other than a WBV. {{sigh}} Poor kid.

[junkinmytrunk]

Tray622: Big hugs to you. I hope little Jocey starts feeling better. It's so wicked hard when they are sick and with what your little lamb has been through, I can only imagine. I will put you and J. in my prayers tonight.

Hand foot mouth: My nephew just had this as well. He was miserable. If I remember the only thing you can do to keep them comfy is give them Tylenol / Motrin.

Dropping off a pic of Pierson - he was up all night, couldn't breathe, swallow, etc. We sat in the shower for half an hour and basically, nursed his stuffiness and cough. He's finally sleeping, after being up all night so once this post is done I'm headed to sleep as well.

Shannon: LOVE the cups w/the straw. I'm still in the "squirt in the mouth" stage but I can tell he likes it. Since he's refusing all other forms of liquid other than H20 in the straw cup during this cold, it's a winner. Thanks for the tip!

http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/16/16/2/36/79/2054236790032617112qSBLcl_th.jpg (http://family.webshots.com/photo/2054236790032617112qSBLcl)

[ShannonGH]

Hugs to all the sick babies!!! :(

Glad the straw trick has worked for a few of you!!

[JennW]

Sorry about all the illnesses. Big hugs and wishes for well babies soon!!!:)

[ajb524]

tray622- Sean had tubes put in about a month ago. From May 06-Dec 06 he had 5 rounds of antibiotics for ear infections. It would get better while he was on antibiotics and then about 2-3 weeks later the cycle would start over again. He hasn't had an ear infection since the first part of december and I'm so glad we went ahead and did the tubes. PM me if you have any questions. I'll be happy to answer them :)
-----------------------------------------------
Mr. Sean has not been a good sleeper the past few nights. He's got 3 teeth coming through right now (for a grand total of 7). I even gave him ibuprofen last night hoping it would take the edge off and help him sleep. No luck. He got up at 3:00am. I fed him and gave him teething tablets and he did okay until I tried to put him in his crib. Then he started crying so I had to stand there and pat him on the back until he finally gave it up and went to sleep. Needless to say I'm a tired mama this morning.

[amychris03]

tray
Ugh, I hear ya on the double ear infection that wont go away. Sam has been on three different antibiotics for a month too. He has about 4 more days to go on the current one, and has been grabbing at his ear today, which just breaks my heart. I just want it to go away and him to feel better! It has totally screwed up his eating, sleeping, you name it! He is nursing again, but is now refusing most solids other than yogurt, bananas, and applesauce. He loves veggies and meats usually, but wants no part of it, pureed or cooked. Im not sure whats up with that. Ugh. We see the new pediatrician tuesday so I will be interested to see what they say.

Oh, and did I mention DH is going out of town for a week on monday? pooey!

[IUAlum]

amychris03- I am currently in the middle of DH's week-long business trip with DS having an ear infection. I feel your pain!

Sorry to all the mommas with sick babies. It seems like every kid I know whether he is home with mom, in daycare, you name it, has been sick almost all winter. Yuck.

[dec27bride]

Thanks for all the replies ladies, she seems to be feeling much better already!

tray-I'm so sorry you're having a rough time! :( You'll be in my prayers, I hope Jocey gets feeling better soon.

tubes-I'm on the tubes bandwagon too. It's been great to not have her sick all the time, well, aside from this last thing, oh well, you know what I mean! I know they aren't for everyone, but they have definitely worked for us.

[Elenitsa]

Hi girls reading along and had no time to post. Dealing with craziness at home. Moving and living out a suitcase. My mom and primary caretaker while I'm at work has a crazy sciatica issue and hasn't been able to take care of the baby for two weeks. My dad was pitching in, but baby and wifey was too much, so we made our move closer to my inlaws early to have MIL take care of baby. In some ways it has been like a first day at school. MIL is great, but its not like my Mom, you know. But the most important factor is kiddio is doing great with her. My mom is on heavy painkillers and just went through an epidural injection of steroids into the spaces where the nerve endings are with no positive results. I don't know what the heck we are going to do. Also, in the midst of planning DD's christening --- Greek style. Think mini-wedding. Only 150 of our family and closest friends. Techinically 100 people are family (DH has a HUGE family).

Ear infection and what we did- DD the day after christmas got double ear infection with fever. She went on antibiotics at that time. I did also start treating her with a probiotic for babies. Bifidus (keep refrigerated) usually found in a gel cap (remove the gel cap), I would put a little in her milk and she wouldn't notice a thing. That helped to keep her BMs normal. Also, gave her a some Echinacea.

About a week ago she got a fever and started acting up, like she did with when she was first diagnosed with ear infections. I started giving her Echincacea (formulated for infants, liquid strawberry formula in her daily water). So far kiddos been fighting it off -- I hope.

Food~ I gave up a while ago on baby food. She'll eat some things mashed up, but mostly she gets our food cut up. She also has nearly 10 teeth.

1st Birthday parites - I got this great catalog called 1stwishes, I don't know if they have a website and I don't know where I put the catalog in the move, but they had some great 1st birthday party paraphenalia.

walking ~ I think she can, but she's chicken. She great walking while holding 1 hand.

Next baby ~ I really hope to be starting soon. We wanted to start this past Dec but putting it off b/c too much is going on.

Hugs to all the mommies of sick babies!!!

[Elenitsa]

Forgot to ask this question... what portrait studio offers instant photos???

[IUAlum]

Elenitsa- If you have a Portait Innovations near you, you take the pictures home that day.

[JennW]

Elenitsa - Kiddie Kandids (in BRU) and Picture People do them on the spot, too.

[Bernie & Matt]

Elenista 1st Wishes does have a website. They're actually a subdivision of www.birthdayexpress.com

[losthoosier]

Sorry to all or you with sick babies. I am doing my best to keep this little one healthy. We clean with lysol (sp) her toys everyday, and I am always washing her hands.

WE have been super busy. We put our house on the market and in two weeks it sold. So now we are looking for a place to rent until we decide what we are doing with our lives as far as law school.

I also got a promotion at work that requires a lot more work then I have done in the past and so I am busy mommy.

DD is doing great she is growing like a weed. I can't believe we will have our first one year old this weekend. Crazy how fast this year flew by.

I bought some of the Sippy cups with the straw and they seem to be working great. I am trying to replace one bottle a day with straight sippy cup and then will go from there.

Birthday party planning is fast under way. All I have to do is the food. Any menu suggestions.? If anyone would like to see her invite PM me I can't post as its not a picture file

Other then that here is a more recent picture of DD
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/156/384974201_7b8bd2dba0.jpg?v=0

[junkinmytrunk]

Lost: glad to read things are going well. Your DD is a doll!

The last pic I posted of Pierson was awful, so here's another, in his $7 Target duds!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/132/385521062_8baa9a38c9.jpg?v=0

It seems as though he's finally turned the corner on his cold. Mama has finally gotten some much needed sleep - he was only up once last night. A funny story - last night I decided to skip his bath (we bathe every night before bed) and while I was changing him into his jammies on my bed, he PEEEED the biggest guiyser I've ever seen -- I quickly covered him with his clean dipe. I thought the coast was clear so I picked up the dipe and lo and behold, he did it AGAIN and laughed his head off -- until the urine hit his own face! My sheets, his jammies, the floor, my pillows - who knew the kid could hold so much? I thought he was too old to pee on me, so glad to know he's still a baby in some respects.

He's not walking. Phew :) -- whoever mentioned the 3 month from pulling up to walking stat seems to be right on - I started calc-ing other babes I know and it seems to be right on so I am thinking he'll walk in April. Not much talking other than "mammmmmaaa baaaabaha and dadadada". As for food, we're still gagging but I'm trying Amy's suggestions. We'll get there.

That's about it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN!!!

[amychris03]

Happy Birthday Sean!!!

Lisa
Too funny! We haven't been peed on in a while, but I can only imagine how much pee it would be now that he is bigger!

Lost
Look at all of that hair! So cute! I dont think Sam will have that much hair by his fifth birthday at this rate!

[ShannonGH]

Happy Birthday Sean!!! I hope you have fun at your party today! Can't wait to see pics!!!

I love seeing the new pics of the babies!!! :)

[tray622]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN! :)

[JennW]

OMG -our first 1-year old!!! Happy b-day Sean!!!:)

The babies are getting so big! Our babies aren't babies any more.:(:(

[klm2klh]

Just stopping by to wish our first one year old a Happy Birthday! Hope you have a great day Sean! And congrats to mommy for making it through the first year!

[dec27bride]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN!!!!!

[kdotp]

Happy Birthday Sean!!!

I can't believe we have our first one-year-old! :)

[Tracie]

Happy Birthday, Sean! I can't believe we have our first one-year-old!

Aj has started cruising down the furniture a little, and his newest trick is to stand up on his legs while crawling. I'm not sure that makes sense, but if you know yoga, it's like he's doing down-ward facing dog. Which, come to think of it, he's seen me do a lot lately, so that might be exactly what he's doing!

[junkinmytrunk]

Happy Birthday, Sean! I can't believe we have our first one-year-old!

Aj has started cruising down the furniture a little, and his newest trick is to stand up on his legs while crawling. I'm not sure that makes sense, but if you know yoga, it's like he's doing down-ward facing dog. Which, come to think of it, he's seen me do a lot lately, so that might be exactly what he's doing!


.........Pierson used to do downward facing dog thing ALL THE TIME. I called it London Bridge but DFD makes a lot of sense as well. It's so cute, I must snap a photo of it before he stops doing it!

BTW, I was reading the March 2007 Mommies Thread -- gosh, we all were SOOO there last year. I can't believe it's been a year. Frighteningly fast.

[mom2amelia]

Happy 1st Birthday Sean!!

[tunibell]

OMG...Sean is 1!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

[ajb524]

Thank you all! Your birthday wishes mean so much to me!! Sean had a wonderful 1st birthday! I've got a ton of pics, but will just post my favorites! Let me warn you guys, as soon as I started singing happy birthday to him I choked up. I had to stop singing to keep from bursting out in tears. I was happy, but a little sad. My baby is growing up too fast!

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/of=50,590,442.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/1.jpg
Smash cake

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/3.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/7.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/8.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/9.jpg

[ajb524]

Continued
http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/10.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/11.jpg

http://bellsouthpwp2.net/a/n/andreajb/party%20pics/14.jpg

We are all exhausted of course tonight :) . Overall it was a wonderful party and Sean had a great time.

[brooke]

Happy Birthday Sean! Glad to hear you had a great day... :D

[junkinmytrunk]

Andrea: Gosh those photos are priceless! I *know* I will cry on Pierson's birthday ~ I'm already tearing up thinking about it! Be sure to fill us in on all the details of the party

...And because I've been a posting fool lately (I'm able to upload photo again, YAY!), one of my faves of the little guy. He loves to make this face, and show off his teeth (Btw we have about 8 teeth now):

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/182/386131290_074f859e5f.jpg?v=0

Okay, it's night night time for me, too.

[kdotp]

Aj has started cruising down the furniture a little, and his newest trick is to stand up on his legs while crawling. I'm not sure that makes sense, but if you know yoga, it's like he's doing down-ward facing dog. Which, come to think of it, he's seen me do a lot lately, so that might be exactly what he's doing!
DS does this too, and DH likes to say he's practicing for his future football career with a 4-point stance. :rolleyes:

[dec27bride]

Thanks for the pics ajb524!! Looks like you guys had a great time!

junk-That pic of Pierson is hilarious!:D

[JennW]

andrea - Looks like a terrific party! I'm glad you guys had so much fun!:) Onto year two for Sean, with the rest of us following close behind!

junk - He is too precious.

[tunibell]

Happy Birthday Jocey!!!!!!

[JennW]

Happy Birthday Jocey!:)

[junkinmytrunk]

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY JOCEY!!!!

[kdotp]

Happy Birthday Jocey!!!

:D

[ShannonGH]

Happy Birthday Jocey!!!!! Hope all of your illness is behind you and you're able to enjoy your special day...as is mom! :)

[bunny nose]

Happy Birthday Sean and Jocey!

I love the picture with the cake. He sure is enjoying it.

[JennW]

Isn't it weird to think of last year at this time? As the birthdays roll around it reminds me of how I just kept logging in to this thread to all the excitement of seeing news of babies arriving one after the other and waiting for my guy...:) I just can't believe it's been a year.:D:D

[junkinmytrunk]

Isn't it weird to think of last year at this time? As the birthdays roll around it reminds me of how I just kept logging in to this thread to all the excitement of seeing news of babies arriving one after the other and waiting for my guy...:) I just can't believe it's been a year.:D:D

Jenn - I couldn't agree more. It's INSANE!!!

[tray622]

Thank you everyone! We actually had to cancel her party and go to a smaller version with more immediate family per her doctor. It went okay. She is slowly getting back to being herself. We met with the dr on Friday and he believes it is a minor immunity issue and the problem is the inability to fight off infections. We have only had 1 viral issue. We are on a low dose antibiotic daily and will revisit next week. Thank you all again for such a great year!

[phart]

Happy Birthday Sean and Jocey!!

[tgal]

Happy Birthday Sean and Jocey!

[red_canuck]

Happy Birthday Sean and Jocey!!!

[yby1]

Happy Birthday Jocey and Sean! :)

[Elenitsa]

happy happy birthday Sean & Jocey!!!!

[aprilshowers]

Happy Birthday Sean & Jocey!

tray - how did your family party go? I hope that she is feeling better soon.

andrea - thanks for the warning! I actually teared up reading it so I guess I am in trouble.

We had DD's first (of 3 - insane) bday party this weekend. It was with 5 other babies who all turn 1 the same month. There were maybe 15 families in all and it was lots of fun. DD was the only one who didn't cry when we put the party hats on :) She spent a good 5 minutes using that inquisitive little pointer finger to daintily (sp?) test the icing on her cupcake before the smashing began in earnest. We were all worn out afterwards but it was so much fun. I am even more excited for the party we are throwing ourselves now!



menu - we are doing apps at an afternoon party:
crudite & dip
mini quiches (a la Trader Joe's)
mushroom turnovers (again, TJ's, a big cheat!)
marinated antipasta
olive paste & crositini
cheese plate/bread/crackers
pesto palmiers
hummus
pita
birthday cake, of course
fruit salad (if I get my act together)
wine, beer, seltzer, lemonade

I have to keep convincing myself that it is enough food.

[losthoosier]

Happy late birthday Sean and Jocey!!!!

Wow its hard to believe...........................

[ShannonGH]

Great menu april. Thanks for sharing!
Anyone have any fun ideas for a brunch party?
Her theme is green/pink polka dot so I was even thinking of having circle foods...I know, pretty corny.:rolleyes:
So far I can think of:
cinnamon rolls
mini quiches
cherries/grapes/melon balls

[ajb524]

Here is what I did for Sean's party foodwise. It was from 11-1. We started eating around 11:30 and when everyone was finishing up we did Sean's smash cake b/c he was starting to get fussy (it was time for a nap). Then we opened presents while everyone else ate cake. We were finished with the entire party around 12:45.

I ordered a sub sandwich tray from walmart (I wish we had gotten it at subway though). A medium sized chick-fil-a chicken nugget tray, fruit, veggie tray, chips, soft drinks, water, and juice for the kids that were there and of course b-day cake which I have half of left over ;).

[junkinmytrunk]

Shannon: Some of my favorite foods are round!! :) I think sugar cookies iced in pink / green frosting would be darling. Also, other round foods: mini pizzas, mini-burgers, maybe a coldcut platter with pita bread so you have round sandwiches, or tea sandwiches using round cookie cutters like they do at tea service! I'll have to think of more - I think round is a great theme!

April and Andrea: Sounds like great menus. And I love those mushroom turnovers at TJ's!! Andrea - so you think 2 hours is a good amount of time? I was wondering about that.

As for Pierson's, we changed locations and are doing a little Italian restaurant that does a set menu. Of course, Ds totally hearts Baby Einstein so that's our theme. I went to Walmart and bought invites, blower thingies, goodie bags, plates, napkins, etc and ordered a cake decoration think and banner from the web. He'll be Einsteine'd out, for sure.

[JennZ]

Happy belated birthdays to Sean and Jocey!!

I've had tears at all my DC's birthday parties, not just the first one! So beware! :D (but I am overly-emotional about the kids as my DH likes to say!!) LOL

Graham took his first steps Saturday!! From Daddy to Mommy! He was very proud of himself. He did it again on Sunday- about 5 little steps before he lunged to me. My heart is proud and happy and excited, but so resisting them growing up!! KWIM??

Love all the pics! The babies are so adorable and precious!! Love baby smiles!!

I have the baby-bug full-force now! What to do? What to do?? :)

Graham's party is Feb. 24th. Just my family and DH's family. About 14 adults and 8 little ones from 9 months to 5. So it is a full house without inviting anyone else. I'll come back later and try to post the invite.
I haven't really figured out any of the other details yet- like food, a theme, cake, etc..
I guess I really need to work on that this week!! Must be denial at work!! :o

[tgal]

mini quiches (a la Trader Joe's)
mushroom turnovers (again, TJ's, a big cheat!)


lol, we did these and a couple other TJ's frozen items and they were huge hits.

More menu stuff (this was our more adult party)
Chicken salad sandwiches
Ham/mango sandwiches
Strawberries/Honeydew (trying to do somewhat pink and green)
Cucumbers with marinade
TJ's hot apps.
Veggie platter with marinade
Coppa and prosciutto
olives
veggie chips from TJ's
Cake

Next weekend is the pizza and cake pool party!

Here are a couple of pictures from Party #1 that my neighbor sent me. I have a few more I'll post in the bday party thread tomorrow.
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o118/2006eva/Evas1stB-dayParty29.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o118/2006eva/Evas1stB-dayParty43.jpg


ETA: JennZ: I tried so hard not to cry, but it happened. DH's neice made Eva a card and the first sentence was "last year you were my birthday gift (her bday is 4 days after eva was born) and I lost it handed her the card and she had to read the rest!

Oh, timeline. Ours started at 2pm. DD was so good that day. She took an unexpected nap from 11am-12:30pm and that was awesome. Everyone arrived, hung out while eating, we opened gifts 1st because I was thinking we'd have to give her a bath after the cake. It worked well for us.

[ellybella]

happy birthday sean & jocey!!! can't even believe that some of our babies are 1 already! we still have 5+ weeks to go!

april your menu sounds yummy! are you making your marinated anitpasta? would you mind sharing your recipe?

tgal ava looks so cute in her chair. did you make her cake? if so is that fondant? i was going to have james' smash cake made, but now i'm thinking i may attempt it. i saw a fondant kit at micheal's.

andrea sean's cake looks YUMMY! i love chik-fil-a chicken!

boo! james has his first ear infection. we went to walk-in hours this morning because i thought something was up and sure enough. the last two days he's refused his afternoon nap, hoping he's not trying to drop that one. i'm so not ready for that. dh is away to boot, so i'm dragging. luckily (knock on lots of wood) his night sleep the last 4 nights has been fabulous...he goes down between 6&7 and is making it until 4, 5 or 6. if he's up at 4 or 5 i can nurse him and put him back down until 6:30. i hope he keeps this up because it feels to good to have long stretches again. eventhough i'm still waking up alot and looking at the clock wondering what time it is.

we are walking 100% of the time...it's crazy! a woman at the dr. this morning said he looks so funny walking around because he's so little. it's pretty cute. he repeated his first words this weekend. i was pulling out a basket of his toys and said "oh wow" and he repeated it as clear as day. my husband and i just looked at each other and laughed. he's said "wow" a couple more times since. such a big boy!

question about ear infections do i need to give him something for the pain in addition to the antibiotic?

[tgal]

elly: No, I didn't make the cake. It is from a lady that does this out of her home. The circles are fondant and just fyi were melted by the next morning. Not sure why that happened???

[ShannonGH]

tgal- somehow I missed your pics of the cake!! It is SO cute!! I can't wait for our pink/green dot party now. :) Feel free to show more pics. ;)

[jordan]

Happy Birthday Jocey and Sean!

We just got back from visiting my Grandmother in Michigan. A whirlwind trip, but it's always nice to get up there. Nate had his first go round with sledding and liked it as much as can be expected when you can't move too much due to the snow suit. It looks like he might have another chance if we get they snow they are predicting overnight tonight.

I'll be back later with pictures!

[junkinmytrunk]

Tgal: Goodness, Eva's precious. So darling.

--------------------------------------------

Just got back from Pierson's pediatric opthamologist's appointment for his "lazy eye" and luckily, it's nothing. I forgot the medical terms but it was something like "pseudo....blahblahblah" which means it's the way the skin near the corner of his eye is situated that creates the illusion of a crossed eye. The dilation drops were a wild scene, oy, he HATED that but how could he not? I hate it, too! We do a follow up in 2 months just to be sure but otherwise, it was a-ok. Oh, and he KISSED THE DOCTOR ON THE LIPS after the appointment and waved his first BYEBYE at him as well. :confused: He never does this for mommy -- suffice it to say he loved the doc.

We're getting ready for a big snow tonight / tomorrow -- my mom bought Pierson a snow suit at ON so I can't wait to get him out there in it!

Hugs and kisses to all, and all that jazz....

ETA: Shannon / Noa: I thought of you both when I saw these cookies on Mrs. Beasley's website today. Think pink and green :) so sweet!

http://www.mrsbeasleys.com/images/products/FCBOX_0601_L.jpg

[aprilshowers]

elly - sorry I don't have a recipe for the antipasta. It is more Trader Joe's (and is delicious!) :)

tgal - saw your pics in the 1BD thread - you sure throw a great party! And the cake is great. DD is adorable!

[Tracie]

Happy Birthday Jocey!

That's funny that AJ isn't the only yoga-doing tot! I'll have to get a picture of him, too. It's really cute!

[lovin'it]

Next weekend is the pizza and cake pool party!


Oh my gosh! That is exactly what we will be doing to celebrate Ella and Nina's Bday!

Happy Bday Sean and Jocey!

[junkinmytrunk]

Happy Birthday Ella and Nina and Lovin' It, congrats on their first birthday!

and Kat (wherever you are...)...Happy Birthday to Audrey and Alexander!!

Happy Valentine's Day, Ladies!!

Eta: Girls, I was thinking your babes were born tomorrow, not the 15th. So it's an early happy bday to all!

[dec27bride]

Happy Belated b-day to Jocey!! Sorry I missed it!

tgal-I love that second pic!

elly-Sorry about the ear infection! I would give Arleigh Tylenol or Motrin if she was fussy when she had an ear infection. The 'oh wow' story is hilarious! :D

[lovin'it]

Lisa - Thanks! You are a doll!

[JennW]

Happy Birthday Ella and Nina and Audrey and Alexander!!!:)

I love the "Oh wow" story, too. Priceless.:D:D

[ShannonGH]

Happy Birthday Nina & Ella, Audrey & Alexander (kat, come out come out wherever you are :) )

[ellybella]

happy birthday!! nina, ella (love that name!!), audrey & alexander!!

april i think i will be heading to trader joe's pre party. thanks for all of the tips!

kdotp i ordered chocolate cow lollipops for james birthday and saw these and thought of you...
http://i4.ebayimg.com/03/i/03/f2/5d/6f_2.JPG

shannon sounds like your plans are all in order...luckily i'm feeling very organized as well.

i think we'll FINALLY be able to take james out today in the sled he got for xmas. although probably not such a good idea w/ the ear infection...oh a couple minutes can't hurt.;)

happy valentine's day!!!

[amychris03]

Happy Birthday to nina, ella, audrey, and alexander and a belated birthday wish for Jocey

DH is out of town on business, which leaves me little-no time for myself! I feel so behind. Sam's ear infections have FINALLY cleared! I like the new ped a lot! She also said she heard no sign of a heart murmur interestingly enough. She said it could have been due to the ear infection (she says sometimes it sounds off if they have a fever or something). At any rate, they will check again at his 12 month WBV just to keep an eye on it.

Huh, everyone who is organized for birthday parties, wanna organize mine? I'm just at a loss for what to have to do for the other kids that will be there. We'll have kids ranging from age 1-9 and we obviously don't have any big kid toys. It's more of an adult party, with the kids invited. Any ideas? DH and I got a few videos for the play room (Cars, Finding Nemo, etc) and were thinking of getting a Pinata. Most of the kids are my relatives, so I guess I can also tell their parents that they may want to bring some of their own toys? I'm at a loss. Any ideas? I've never even been to a little kids birthday party before!

[jordan]

Happy Birthday Nina & Ella, Audrey & Alexander

[JennW]

Are you guys opening gifts at the party? I've been to parties where they do and some where they don't. I'm torn. We're having a decent amount of people so gifts may take a long time and I don't want to bore people but I also don't want to not do it if people are expecting it. Like I said I've been to both and never thought much of it either way. I'm not sure what to do??? Thoughts?

[kdotp]

G says Happy Valentine's Day!!
http://i19.tinypic.com/4dgmemw.jpg

elly those are really cute! I'm ashamed to say I have done little to no planning for his birthday party. I've actually done *more* planning for my friend's baby shower I'm hosting two weeks after DS's birthday. :o

My mom is having her gall bladder removed tomorrow, and DS and I are going to go up Friday and just help around the house for a day or two while she recuperates. Maybe I'll be able to get some things figured out then because my sister (who is making the cakes) will also be there.

Happy [early] Birthday Audrey & Alexander and Ella & Nina!!

[bunny nose]

Happy Birthday Ella and Nina and Audrey and Alexander

Nicky's birthday plans are pretty much set. It will be on his birthday since it is a Saturday. DH and I will be doing the cooking- baked ziti, meatballs, sausage & peppers and chicken marsala. I think we may get a cold cut platter also.

I am currently working on a project I think I saw in the 1st birthday ideas thread. I know I saw it on CC, just not where. Anyway, I am making a year of pictures of Nicky. This is an example. This is his 9 month pictures:

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g198/photoogirl15/9months.jpg

I am going to cut holes in the top and tie ribbon into a bow. Then I am going to tie that onto another ribbon and tie them to my kitchen cabinets. The idea I saw had them all tie to one long ribbon and hanging ont he wall. I don't have the room for that, so I am going to do it that way. Hopefully it comes out the way I want.

[JennW]

grant is so cute! Awwww!:D

karen – love that idea. Your 9-month one came out so cute. Your menu sounds really similar to mine.:) We're doing bakes ziti, salad, sausage and peppers and chicken & rice. Also some grilled veggies.:D

[yby1]

I'm ashamed to say I have done little to no planning for his birthday party.


Same here! I think I just feel overwhelmed. I can easily plan an adult party, but this is the first time I will plan a party for kids and I'm pretty clueless when it comes to children :o. I ordered invites and am looking on orientaltrading.com for favors and other party ideas.

[klm2klh]

Is there anyone else who isn't planning anything for their DC's birthday?

We are leaving for Hawaii on the 26th and won't be back until March 12, so we will be there for Nicholas & Campbell's actual birthday. We don't have any family here other than DH's stepmom. I was thinking of having a small get together after we come back with her and a few of our close friends, but haven't really done anything about it.

[tunibell]

Piper says Happy Valentine's Day!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/390596614_58b5959f36.jpg?v=0

(PS - Colors look nowhere near this gawdy on the actual card. Anyone know why this happens - DH thought maybe jpeg compression issue??)

[losthoosier]

Happy Birthday Ella and Nina and Audrey and Alexander!!! Hope you have a wonderful B-day

To all you wonderful Ladies HAPPY V-day

[tgal]

Thanks for all the complements on the bday party! We are recycling everything this coming weekend. I so wanted to do two different themes, but there just isn't enough time! I will have more pics to share! ;)

Happy Birthday Ella and Nina and Audrey and Alexander!!!

Tuni: I don't think the colors look bad at all! I love bright colors, awesome card.

Happy Valentines Day!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/160/390281148_7ff88efe46.jpg?v=0

[Elenitsa]

Happy Belated Birthday Ella and Nina and Audrey and Alexander!!!

Elly ~for earache pain with an infection, I asked my Ped for eardrops. They slightly numb the pain. I put these in my ears, just to test it. I didn't feel any different, but perhaps that's because I don't have an infection. We also slightly warmed olive oil and put a few drops in DD ears and tried to keep her head tilted so it would roll all the way in. Basically, we soaked a q-tip and let it drip in there. I think the warmed olive oil was better than the drops. Sorry this reply is so late.

[junkinmytrunk]

Elenitsa: what does the olive oil do? Curious...we've had ear infections and wondering how it might help DS. TIA!

[Elenitsa]

Junk ~ I'm not sure what it does. But, even in my own experience with an earache as a child, that is what my mom did and it would aleviate the pain. Not sure what it does from a medical standpoint, but it works and does no harm, well then I say its good. For centuries olive oil has been thought to have healing properties. I guess it might be akin to oregano oil is supposedly good for nail infections. I wouldn't suggest putting oregano oil in the ear though.

[junkinmytrunk]

Eleni: I'm all for natural remedies. I'll keep that on the list if the ear infection thing happens again. I've never heard of it before. BTW...the oregano oil thing I'm definitely going to have to try -- I've had horrible nail infections this winter with dry skin peeling and bleeding - thanks for the tip!

Tgal: Eva looks so beautiful and angelic in your VD pic - so sweet!

[JennW]

Cool trick about the olive oil. I've never heard of it. We've only had one ear infection, but if we get another I may try that!

piper and eva - are so precious in their v day pics!:)

Shannon - someone posted some cute bibs in the sale thread and I posted a link for you there with a pink/green dot bib. I'm in a rush now so I don't have to time to find the link to post here but take a look when you get a chance. It went so well with what you're doing for Noa's party.

[dec27bride]

Happy Belated Birthday Ella and Nina, and Audrey and Alexander!

[ajb524]

Vote for Sean please

I entered Sean in the Valentine's Cutie contest in my local paper so please vote for him!
http://onlineathens.com/classifieds/val_cuties/ (Sean Barnett)

Here is the link to the ad that ran Sunday (he is on the far right hand side about a 1/3 of the way down http://onlineathens.com/classifieds/val_cuties/cuties2007.shtml

Thanks!!!!

Voting ends on Sunday Feb. 18th.

[JennW]

Voted!:)

[ajb524]

I forgot to come and post his 1 year WBV stats.

He weighed 21lbs. even and is 30 inches long. He has almost quadrupled his weight from when he was born! I can never remember his head measurements. Thankfully the nurse wrote them on a piece of paper which I don't have at work.

Doctor told us to go ahead and start whole milk. I've got several cans of formula to use up first, but I may just start mixing it soon to see how he handles it. He also said he would like him weaned from the bottle at 15 months. I somehow don't see that happening since he's not that crazy about sippy cups. I did figure out this week that he does best with those tupperware cups like this
http://order.tupperware.com:8080/coe-images/items/p10048897000_detail.jpg
The only thing about them is they aren't leak proof, but if it's the only thing that works we'll stick with it.

He also gave me the go ahead for him to eat pretty much anything now. We are taking it slow with finger foods. He likes gerber puffs & wagon wheels. We've also discovered that he likes chocolate. He realized we were eating it on valentine's day and he just came over and stood in front of our chairs till we gave him a teensy bit of it. Then of course he wouldn't leave till we gave him more. I can't believe I have a 1 year old chocoholic ;).

eta- Thanks Jenn!!!

[JennZ]

voted!

[amychris03]

I'll go vote as soon as I'm done here!

QOTD:
Will you turn your carseat around at one year, assuming your child is the correct size?

I think we will, because Sam still HATES to be in the carseat any length of time, especially if he's in the back seat by himself. And I would like to ride in the front seat again at some point! Mamas with older kids- was it easier once you switched them around?

[JennW]

amychris – I plan to switch at 20 pounds which I doubt will be at 1 year for us so I’ll wait until he hits the 20 pound mark.

[ajb524]

Thanks JennZ & AmyChris

Will you turn your carseat around at one year, assuming your child is the correct size?

I discussed this with my doc the other day. He told me I could go ahead and I told him I would rather wait. He assured me that it was fine to turn around and that he would enjoy being able to see out. He said he did that with his two young kids 1 1/2 & 3. He's fairly conservative about stuff so I'm a little conflicted. He rides just fine RF so I don't know. I also just ordered a Britax Marathon for my car and I'm thinking it's not going to fit so well RF.

[tray622]

QOTD With my oldest DD we turned her around when she was 13 months old because she was such a bear in the car. I understand the other side but I would almost break down in the car and was driving a lot more dangerously trying to appease her. It didnt work for us and she LOVED the car once she turned around. Jocey is a content car rider so she will stay RF. It doesnt matter right now though since she lost 5 lbs (24-19) since she has been sick and I dont know if she is back up to 20 or not.

[amychris03]

oops, I forgot earlier! It wasn't on the front page but I noticed this in your post yesterday!!

Happy Birthday Eva!!!


~
tray
That's totally how I feel, I rush to get where I'm going because he screams his head off in the car. That or occasionally I can amuse him by singing non-stop, which leaves me with a sore throat. I feel like I'd be much more focused if he was happier!

[JennW]

Happy Birthday EVA!!!:)

[losthoosier]

HAPPPY BIRTHDAY EVA!!!!

ANDREA I VOTED

CARSEAT- My DH already turned his around in his car. My dd hates the car and she screams as soon as we get in. So he just couldn't take it any more. Turning her around has calmed the screaming. She is 21 pounds so just not the year mark yet. Also her feet are up against the back seat.

IN THE NEWS! There was a lady who drove off a 100 ft interchange yesterday. She was killed but her 10 month old baby survived in her rear facing child seat.

If you are interested here is the article
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/news/local/article_1581914.php

So this is making me keep mine rear facing a little while longer.

In other news. Mackenzie is starting at a daycare center on Monday. I am sad, that she will no longer be in the care of family, but it is just time. Its hard to believe how disgusting some of the centers are. I went to about 15 total and found 2 that I would put my daughter in. I do not see how people drop there kids off in a dirty center.

I am not being judgemental, but the centers I saw that were clean were the same price as the dirty ones. So cost is not an issue.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend

[phart]

QOTD:
Will you turn your carseat around at one year, assuming your child is the correct size?

No. We turned Aiden around at 16 months and not really for any good reason. We'll keep Maura RF as long as we can in the Roundabout. I could turn Aiden back around (he wants to ride like Sissy) but his Marathon won't fit behind my seat RF.

Also her feet are up against the back seat.

This isn't an issue. They are so limber for so long. There's a site I will try to find with bigger kids still happily RF>

[mom2amelia]

QOTD - no. We won't turn Phoebe until she's too big to be RF in her Britax. We didn't turn Amelia until she was close to 2 years. She didn't know the difference and was just as happy to ride RF. She was sitting cross-legged by the time we turned her (she's very tall), but she was comfortable, so we didn't mess with it. I would turn her if she was screaming in the car though. The distraction from the screaming, I think, is pretty dangerous.

[phart]

http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/StayRearFacing.aspx

Scroll down to the bottom.

[bunny nose]

Voting done!!

Well, I turned Nicky around already. We didn't know about the rear facing thing until at least one until after we had switched him. Bad parents- I know. He was totally out of the carrier so we moved him into the big seat. HE still hates it. Starts screaming as soon as he sees me getting to the car. Lovely in a parking lot full of people.

[ShannonGH]

Happy Birthday Eva!!!

Interesting to hear all the ROs kept #1 rf for quite a bit after first birthday. I honestly didn't know it was *that much* safer but it makes sense. I guess we should probably keep her that way too since she doesn't mind it. it's just such a pain to get her in and out of the car. This is why our next vehicle will be a mini van. <gasp> ;)

Andrea, I voted. :)

Jenn, thanks so much for thinking of me and the bib!

[junkinmytrunk]

Andrea: Voted! :D

Happy Birthday Eva!!!

QOTD: I'll keep Pierson rear facing as long as I can; I've read it's so much safer He's fine RF 9 times out of ten so there's no real reason to flip him around. I have a Roundabout and it seems to be fine in the RF position.

So does our one year old status mean this thread moves to (snif snif) the toddler groups section?

In other news, I don't usually watch TV during the day but Pierson is taking a really lovely nap so I figured, why not? I tuned into A Baby Story; bawled the whole time. It wasn't anything specific - it was a regular episode -- it's just the fact the baby was NEWBORN - oh, does that break my heart!

[klm2klh]

Andrea - I voted!

Happy Birthday Eva! & Belated Happy Birthdays to Ella & Nina and Alexander & Audrey!

QOTD - Well both of the boys are both over 20 pounds and are still rear facing for now. We will be taking their carseats with us to Hawaii and since we are renting a car while we are there (vs. my SUV at home) we are a little concerned about space and may put them FF while we are there, but once we come home we are still undecided. I think their seats allow them to be RF upto 30 lbs. and they are pretty content so the more I think about it the more likely I will probably leave them as they are for now.

The boys have learned a new trick - going up the stairs. I turned my back on Campbell for maybe 2 minutes and he was 3/4 of the way up our unfinished (i.e. no railing) basement stairs:eek:

We are taking the boys to Hawaii for two weeks and are leaving in 10 days. I am really anxious about taking them on the plane (they do not have their own seats). They are usually good babies and have never had a meltdown in public, but I am still anxious. I think I am most concerned about them not napping the whole day (we leave at 9:30 a.m. and it is a 7 hour flight). I guess I am planning for the worst, but hopefully I will be pleasantly surprised.

Here is a new photo:

Campbell & Nicholas
http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i213/klhoward/Feb122007009_edited-1.jpg?t=1171665450

[JennZ]

Happy Birthday Eva!!

QOTD
We'll probably hold out a little longer on turning DS around. Right now DD is next to him and has been extremely helpful with playing with him and handing him toys, etc....
Plus, I'm not exactly sure if all three car seats will fit across the right way if we turn him around! I need to check that out!!
But since he enjoys RF for now, I say, why borrow trouble?? KWIM?? :D

With DD and DS1, we had to turn them when they reached 30 pounds. DD was 29 pounds at one year, and DS1 was 27 lbs at a year. So we turned both of them somewhere around 13-15 months. Now Graham is about 25 pounds (I think), so we may get a few extra months RF with him.

klm, Oh how I wish I was going to Hawaii for two weeks! How wonderful!! Have a great time! :)

[aprilshowers]

amy - Our party will be like yours, basically an adult party but kids of friends are invited. We aren't doing anything special for the older kids - when they've come over before they seem to like playing with DD's toys even though they're not age-appropriate (these are 3-4 year olds).

klm - I originally wasn't going to do anything except for family. But then I realized that this is the last year we can do something with our friends since from here on out birthdays are going to be all about DD's friends. So we decided to throw a little party but it's more for us than anything! I hope you have a great trip to Hawaii!

gifts - We aren't going to open gifts at the party but the next day we're having family over for brunch and will open their presents then.

carseat - I'm torn too. I want to keep her RF for as long as possible, esp since she is happy that way. But I'd also like to move her back to the middle (we can only fit her on the side w/ the Marathon). Anyone know which is safer (RF side or FF middle)?

[phart]

I'm fairly certain (fairly) that RF is always safest.

[kdotp]

Happy [belated] Birthday Eva!!

We'll stay RF for at least a few months even though he's over the 20-lb requirement. He does fine RF and has short legs like his daddy, so he's not even squished that way.

[junkinmytrunk]

So if his legs are squished but he has not exceeded the weight and length max, it's still OK for RF, yes? My little guy has really long legs and he's pretty long in general - want to make extra sure on this. TIA

[Tracie]

carseat I don't know yet. I have to find out at his 12 mo WCC if he's actually 20 lbs before I make a decision. He's right around there, I think. My scale said 21 but I don't trust it's accuracy as much as I trust the scale at the dr's!

Can I interrupt the car seat talk for a sec to ask a tooth question?

Is it strange that the first tooth my DS is getting on the top is not a middle one? He has his two middle bottom teeth and now it seems that he is getting one on the side. Just wondering if anyone else experienced this...

We gave AJ a haircut tonight. Always a fun experience. (Note the sarcasm.) He screamed a LOT. But now he looks so handsome! And like such a big boy! He really is looking more like a boy than a baby. So hard to believe.

[aprilshowers]

Thanks, phart.

Lisa - yes, that is right. They are fine with their legs squished.

[kdotp]

Is it strange that the first tooth my DS is getting on the top is not a middle one? He has his two middle bottom teeth and now it seems that he is getting one on the side. Just wondering if anyone else experienced this...

Yep. The very first tooth G got was the second upper left incisor. We thought at first he was going to be a vampire baby. :p

[junkinmytrunk]

Thanks, phart.

Lisa - yes, that is right. They are fine with their legs squished.

very cool - t/y!

[ShannonGH]

Tracie...that reminds me...for those with babies that have longer hair, have you had the first cut yet? I'm particularly interested in girls. Noa's is to the point now where I have to keep a barrette in to hold her bangs over all of the time now or they fall in her eyes. But I don't think I want bangs on her so I guess we're stuck with a barrette for quite awhile.

[junkinmytrunk]

For those of you who bought this:

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-3003892reg.jpg

Did your DC like it? I'm trying to buy Pierson something that will assist him in walking and bought the Fisher Price thing but I'm not in love with it. So, any feedback on the red wagon? It is sooooooo cute!

Shannon: Pierson has had at least half a dozen haircuts, most of which my mom has actually done. Sorry, can't help with the styling of a little girl's do, but my friend Maria has a daughter with a lot of hair, and she keeps it bobbed to the ear, and parted on the side, with the front pieces tucked into a barrette at the top. Adorable - sort of similar to what it seems like you've done with Noa's hair.

Well, time for night night.

[dec27bride]

Happy Belated B-day Eva!!

Andrea-I voted yesterday, just didn't have time to post!

haircuts-Still none needed here, and I don't think we'll be doing bangs either, so we probably won't need one for awhile.

car seats-We're going to stay rear facing for awhile.

We made it through our first entire day/night with no bottles, yaaaaaaay!!:D We are putting milk and formula in the sippy's (down to 1/4 formula to 3/4 milk) to get her to drink it, and she's still not a huge fan, but she's definitely eating more at mealtimes to make up for it. We did have one major breakdown yesterday, but she will drink the entire sippy if she's 'desperate' ;) . Okay, better go, Arleigh is banging on the keyboard and I'm sure will figure out how to erase this post in no time!

[ShannonGH]

bottle elimination- that's great dec!! Today was our first day of eliminating our first bottle (the morning one) so we're now down to 3 bottles/day. Noa knows her schedule way too well and DEMANDS her bottle after her naps so I don't look forward to eliminating those. Probably will end up doing it cold turkey after her first birthday. I want her to transition to straw cups asap to help with tongue retraction & lip closure.

[ellybella]

happy birthday ava!

klm oh how i wish i was headed to hawaii...it was -5 with the windchill here this morning :( . where are you staying? i love hawaii. it's double the amount of time for us to get there, so not very pratical with a baby. i would have the same anxiety about the flight, but i'm an anxious flier anyway, i'm sure you'll/they'll be fine. hopefully they'll nap for part of the trip.

junk we've had the radioflyer cart since ds was 7 months and it was perfect for him to push around. we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it. it's solid, sturdy, and stable. it has these little pegs that stick in the wheels to give it some resistance so it won't go flying out in front of him. the fence sides come off, we've had them off since we had it. ds likes to sit in it and we can give him rides. because it is heavier it's not so easy to steer around obstacles, so you have to create open spaces.

carseat haven't decided what we'll do yet. ds hit the weight shortly after nine months and he's content riding like he is for the time being.

question for those w/ marathon did you change the angle of the seat at all, to the more up right position? right now it is tilted back.

dec that is fabulous! so wish we were weaning to milk at least. we have to wait b/c of ds milk sensitivity.

ok...as of today it's official...i'm pregnant, which i guess makes me the first RO :D

[bunny nose]

Oh ellybella, Congratulations!!! How exciting! Our very first RO- that is great!

Here's to a happy and healthy 9 months!!!!!!!!!!:D

[amychris03]

elly No WAY! Congratulations!:D I should have suspected with all your talk about your supply tanking ;)

[ShannonGH]

Yay elly!!!!!! That is so exciting!!! When is your EDD? How far apart will the babes be? We're going to start trying again in April and I'm so excited!

[junkinmytrunk]

Elly! YAY!!! I am so excited for you - healthy and happy to you and your family! What is your due date?

And thanks for the Radio Fly review - I think I'll have to get it.

You go with your bad RO self! :D

[JennW]

YAY! Congrats Elly!!!:)

[dec27bride]

ELLY!! Congratulations, how exciting!!!:D :D

[JennZ]

CONGRATS ELLY!!!

Wonderful news!!

[heidi0622]

Congrats Elly! So exciting, our first RO!

Happy Belated bday to Eva, Ella, Nina, Alexander and Audrey!

[phart]

Happy (belated) birthday to Eva, Ella, Nina, Alexander and Audrey!!:D

Oh! Congrats Elly!! That's awesome news! So...late November? Aiden is a November baby and I really enjoyed it. He was here by Thanksgiving and Christmas but still little and snuggly.

[IUAlum]

Congrats Elly! That is very exciting! Our first RO! I bet the floodgates will open now. (But not me!!)

[ajb524]

Congrats Elly!!!

[tgal]

Congrats Elly, what wonderful news!

I am getting news from friends left and right that they are preggos again! One due in July with twins, one in Aug. and two in Oct. It is making me want another, but until I get this little one to sleep a little more than she has been the past six months it isn't happening. :rolleyes:

Thanks for all the bday wishes. We made the quickest trip back to IN for another party. Trimmed two down to one party with around 50 people. I'll try to post a couple pictures, but I didn't take many because the hotel had these funky yellow lights and the pictures turned out horrible.

[kdotp]

Congrats Elly!! :D How exciting, our first RO!

[ellybella]

thank you SO much for all of your congratulations!

so here's the scoop...we weren't trying, but we weren't preventing so we knew that is was a possibility. it was a surprise in the sense that we only had sex twice, maybe three times that cycle and it took us 18 months to get pregnant with james. as i had mentioned earlier the "plan" was to start really trying in july, ha!

anyway, we're super excited, but i've definitely been having a lot of anxiety thinking about how i'm going to do it all. i feel so overwhelmed at times with just one. luckily my mom is moving back to the area this summer and will only be an hour away.

i would have filled you all in earlier, but i JUST saw the dr. yesterday. my edd is 9/25, so i'm 9 weeks today (yikes!). james and the new baby will almost be exactly 18 months apart. dh and i had talked about trying for the 20 month separation, but that put us in the dead of winter here and it made me nervous to be house bound. so this timing actually worked out better.

so far i'm feeling very similar to my first pregnancy. i'm exhausted just like last time, but add in chasing around an 11 month old, nursing, and him waking in the night. luckily we started cio last night and he only woke once and it was brief. hopefully it'll continue to improve because i need some sleep.

it is amazing how much more laid back i am about everything this time which is nice.

thanks again!

[Tracie]

Congratulations Elly!!!

[JennW]

Awww, how exciting!:) Congrats again.:D:D

[brooke]

Elly - what great news, congrats!

Happy birthday to all our Feb babies...we're doing a small family gathering this Sunday for Declan's b-day. I was procrastinating putting something together...think my irrational side thought that if I didn't have a party, he would remain a baby forever. :)

Little guy is officially a toddler as he's walking across the room when the mood strikes him and he's also developed a bit of a stubborn side and has had a few 'mini-tantrums' when he hasn't gotten something he wants (a sip from my water bottle, the plastic doggy at daycare)...

Time to catch up with DVR...have a good night all...

[tunibell]

Happy belated b-day to Joey, Alex & Audrey (come back kat!), and Ella & Nina!!

AND OMG CONGRATULATIONS ELLY!!!

Am a nervous wreck today...we made our first offer on a house!!! We're not expecting to get it, since we only offered asking, and we seem to be in one of the very few freakin' seller's markets left in this country, but still...crossables crossed, okay??

[ShannonGH]

Crossing all crossables tuni!!! That is so exciting!!! I hope everything works out! Let us know!

[bunny nose]

Good luck Tuni!!

Just wanted to ask you ladies opinion on a poem. I am going to a baby shower in April and with some suggestions here on another thread I decided to do a book gift. I want to put a little poem with it and want to know how this sounds. I took this from a couple of suggestions from the ladies here. But the one's they gave me were more for the host to send out with the invites for a book theme shower. Anyway, here goes:

Although cards are nice
They're read once, maybe twice
A book is a treasure
For forever and ever
For years to come, baby will read
Longing for stories will never be a need
A basket full of wisdom is what I've chosen to give
For baby to keep as long as she shall live

What do you all think? I want to try to change that last line. There is just something about "as long as she shall live" part that bothers me. Any suggestions?

Thanks

[JennW]

Good luck Tuni Keep us informed!:)

Karen - I love that idea!!! I may do something like that in the future for a shower gift. I like the poem. How about changing the last two lines to something like:
A basket of wisdom I've chosen for you,
Enjoy it each day in all that you do.

[junkinmytrunk]

Tuni: Good luck to you. Hot housing markets blow. Crossing all for you.
Bunnynose: I think the suggestion Jenn W made is perfect. What an adorable idea!

Hope everyone is doing well....:)

[yby1]

My fingers are crossed for you Tunibell! :)

I really want to buy a house, but housing is still way too expensive in So Cal even though the market has slowed down. We'd have to sell our condo too and the thought of that sounds daunting. If we do buy, we want to buy in the Hollywood area since it will make our commutes shorter, but anything nice (that's not a shack) in the Hollywood area is $$$. :(

[Christy5599]

Congrats Elly!!! That's so exciting!!!!!

[Tracie]

kdotp Thank you for your reply to my question. I, too, was concerned about having a vampire baby. Glad to know he's not the only one!
:)

Tuni Good luck - my crossables are crossed!

bunnynose I love the poem, and I love JennW's suggestion, too!

[ellybella]

good luck tuni! everything is crossed!

bunny that poem is so nice, and jenn's suggestion sounds great.

brooke we also have a stubborn little tantrum man, if we take something away or we don't let him have something he wants. seems to be worse when he's tired. and WHY does it seem that he wants EVERYTHING he can't/shouldn't have...ugh!

[JennW]

tantrums - This is starting for us, too. I have noticed only a handful of times, especially in the bathtub when bathtime is over and we take away the bath toys and take him out of the tub. That is the end of the night though so maybe it's worse cause he is tired. It also happens from time to time in the highchair if I take away his cup.

[phart]

Not to take away from the annoyingness of early tantrums but at least these guys can be easily redirected! Much more difficult for the 3 year old set:p

Moms of more than one~~What are your younger kids getting for their birthdays? Besides clothes (and she really doesn't need those) I can't come up with anything we don't already have!

[JennZ]

Moms of more than one~~What are your younger kids getting for their birthdays? Besides clothes (and she really doesn't need those) I can't come up with anything we don't already have!

phart,
I'm having the same exact problem!! At least you have a girl to buy for now!
Since this is my second boy, we REALLY don't need clothes, and we REALLY don't need boy toys!!
Maybe for a girl you can buy some of those sweet girl story books or a special doll.

An idea I told my family was anything musical. We LOVE playing with musical instruments. We have the Mozart cube which is great and the Neurosmith 5 blocks that all play music..
http://www.geniusbabies.com/mozmusblocby.html

Also maracas, castanets and tamborines are a big hit around here!!

And I also always say books are a good gift, too.

I'll keep thinking and let you know what else I come up with! :D

[heidi0622]

phart: I know I don't have more than one, but what about money for a college fund? Not memorable for the baby, but if she has enough toys and clothes, then that may be something helpful.

[phart]

Some good ideas Jenn! I was thinking books...we already have a nice instrument set.

Heidi~~The inlaws already do that anyway. Well, they do it for Aiden so I assume they will do it for Maura too. I think they're contributed more money than we have:o

[ajb524]

Sean has the flu! Poor baby started running a fever and having a croupy cough Monday night. I took him to the doctor yesterday and sure enough he has the flu. I'm convinced he picked it up at the doctor's office last Tuesday when we were there for his WBV.

What so bad is that he had the flu shot, but it only protects against type A influenza and the doc thinks he has type b. Thankfully he slept okay last night, but the night before was terrible. He couldn't get comfortable in his crib or in the bed with us. It was a loooooooooooong night.

Now I'm paranoid we're going to get the flu. Thankfully his ped said that he would call in tamiflu for us if we started coming down with it.

[ShannonGH]

Naps...anyone else struggling with naps these day??? Noa still *needs* 2 naps a day (she is way too cranky without them)...I know she is not ready to drop a nap but the child is a bear to get down for her morning nap these days even though she is clearly tired....and she will usually only sleep for about 30 minutes and wake up crying and still acting way tired. So frustrating. I'm rethinking the time of her birthday party now because of her naps. I already have the invites printed but I'm not sure a brunch is going to work now if her morning nap is still an issue.

[phart]

Shannon~~How long is her nap if she only takes one? She sounds like she's trying to drop that morning nap...Aiden acted the SAME way while trying to drop his. I remember people telling me his nap would be 2-3 hours long when he went to one. I also remember being ticked when it was only an hour! But, eventually it did get longer and is still 2-3 hours long:-)

[phart]

Oh Andrea! I meant to post to you on LJ and completely forgot! I hope Sean gets better very quickly. How long does the flu usually last?

[JennW]

Naps have been a topic lately in our house too. He is still napping in the swing and I need to stop that soon as he will grow out of it sooner or later. He’s in DC two days a week and he crib naps there so I’m hoping our transition is OK at home.

He is pretty much down to one nap and has been for months. That nap is usually 1-2 hours (but usually on the shorter end). Once in a blue moon he will take a second nap, but very very rarely. He sleeps a lot at night, which is why I guess he doesn’t nap much. By bedtime (6:00) he can barely keep his eyes open.:D

[lovin'it]

Naps...anyone else struggling with naps these day??? Noa still *needs* 2 naps a day (she is way too cranky without them)...I know she is not ready to drop a nap but the child is a bear to get down for her morning nap these days even though she is clearly tired....and she will usually only sleep for about 30 minutes and wake up crying and still acting way tired. So frustrating. I'm rethinking the time of her birthday party now because of her naps. I already have the invites printed but I'm not sure a brunch is going to work now if her morning nap is still an issue.

I think you need to put her down 30 min earlier than you are...My girls were doing that same deal. Now, that I put them down at 8:30am instead of 9am...they are angels!

[aprilshowers]

elly!! Congratulations! The one week I didn't have time to stop by for a couple of days and look what happens :) I'm really happy for you guys, especially since it happened so much more quickly this time around. You give us other SAI women some hope! And as someone else who has a grandma (MIL) an hour away, it is the perfect distance - not close enough that she is stopping by all the time but close enough that she is more than happy to come spend time with her grandchildren. Congrats!

[losthoosier]

Just a quick congrats To Elly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Will be back later

[ajb524]

Oh Andrea! I meant to post to you on LJ and completely forgot! I hope Sean gets better very quickly. How long does the flu usually last?

He said to expect at least 5 days of fever/general icky feeling. It started on Monday evening so hopefully he'll be better by the weekend.

[JennW]

Andrea - So sorry to hear about Sean's flu. Poor boy.:(

[tgal]

Andrea: I hope sean feels better soon! We decided against the vaccine and Eva got it. It gets worse before it gets better, but once they are past that bad hump they are back to being themselves.

Tuni: Good luck!

Tantrums: Oh yeah! Eva is really bad with these already. I've been tempted to watch nanny 911 to get some pointers ;) !

Naps: I'm wondering if the above is related to her napping schedule. She gets so nasty in the morning if she doesn't have a nap, but when I try to put her down for one she screams, kicks, hits, you name it. Today we had playgroup this morning, so she missed the nap and fell asleep a little after noon and is still sleeping. I think I will give a shot at completely eliminating her morning nap and see how that goes. Maybe she will sleep later than 5am!

Clingly phase: Anyone going through this? Sure enough two weeks after we join a gym with daycare, I get a page to come get her and she is screaming her head off. I thought it was just a fluke, so we went back the next day and same thing. Since then, she screams when she is left with grandma/grandpa or even if I try to put her down to go to the bathroom. Today at playday here in our home, she wouldn't let go of me. I know it is a phase, but I am wondering how long it will last or if there is anything I can do to get her past this???? I already talk to her, i.e. mommy is right here, I will be right back, or come with me while I go into the kitchen, etc.

[junkinmytrunk]

Napping....Pierson is still taking 2 naps about 90% of the time - it's the afternoon nap he's trying to kick. Typically his first nap is at 9:45 am (he gets up at 6:45am) and he sleeps for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours. His next nap usually happens at about 3pm and he'll sleep until say, 4pm. If he refuses a nap, this is the one he kicks. Bedtime is 7pm. So my question - his "wakefulness" is about 3 or 4 hours -- does this seem like he's sleeping TOO much? I wonder if he's overdoing it? Granted, sometimes we only get a combined total of 1 or 2 hours of nap, but I am little worried.

[JennW]

junk - I don't think he's sleeping too much at all. His schedule sounds a lot like Owen's except Owen has dropped that afternoon nap. But, O goes to bed at 6 so an afternoon nap got in the way of that. There are plenty of babies our DS's ages who are still taking 2-3 naps. I wouldn't worry about it at all! All babies have different schedules and needs and I'm sure Pierson's are completely normal.:)

[junkinmytrunk]

Thanks Jenn, for the reassurance. I guess I get a little paranoid sometimes because I do *exactly* what I should never, EVER do...compare him to other babies :( -- he's not walking yet, can't touch a speck of truly "solid" foods, only says ma,ba,da -- when I should be focusing on the fact he is healthy, happy, loving, and just on the slower end of the learning curve for his milestones.

[lovin'it]

Thanks Jenn, for the reassurance. I guess I get a little paranoid sometimes because I do *exactly* what I should never, EVER do...compare him to other babies :( -- he's not walking yet, can't touch a speck of truly "solid" foods, only says ma,ba,da -- when I should be focusing on the fact he is healthy, happy, loving, and just on the slower end of the learning curve for his milestones.

Junk,

I think he is just a normal baby. I have two completely different kids. One can say..:eek:...15 words...clearly. No baby talk. She doesn't walk. The other, hardly ever say much...not even babbling. She cruises around...but no walking. I was terrified for Ella not saying much, but our doctor said that Nina is the abnormal one. No common baby her age can say as many words.

Now...I worry about the oversleeping thing, but my DH, a psychologist, thinks that I should be grateful. He tells me that sleeping is an extremely healthy habit. My girls take 2 three-hour naps and sleep from 7pm to 7:30am.

It's hard to be a mamma...I think that is bottom line. I am a walking worry-guilty-human. If they fall, I feel it's my fault and cry for a while. If they are not eating this or that...I blame myself for not being better at exposing them to it!

AHHHHHHHHH....the joys!:rolleyes:

[ShannonGH]

Thanks for all the nap input ladies! I think we'll try to consolidate her 2 naps into 1 because I've tried everything in the book to maintain her 2 naps but it just isn't working. When you go from 2 to 1, what is a good time to try for? 11ish???

[klm2klh]

Junk - Both of my boys are on pretty much the exact same schedule as Pierson, but don't show any signs of wanting to drop either nap (as long as we are at home during naptime otherwise it's all out the window!)

I know it's hard not to compare him to other babies, but if it makes you feel any better neither of my boys are walking (Nicholas is close, but Campbell isn't) and neither of them say anything other than ma, da, ba. Personally, I'm glad that they aren't walking yet - I have enough trouble keeping track of them as it is!

[phart]

Shannon~~We worked towards 1 so that we could get out and do stuff in the mornings/lunchtime. IIRC, when you are trying to move a nap or bed time you generally push it 15 minutes later for a few days, then 30 and so on.

[JennW]

Junk, re: comparing babies. I was the queen of this for a little while and I realized there is no reason to do it. Owen is a peanut (not even on the charts) and on the slower end with many milestones. He sat late, he doesn't crawl (he prefers to roll or scoot;)), and he does not pull up. I don't think we'll be even be thinking about walking for a while. But, I'm fine with that. He is growing on his own curve and is progressing fine.

As my doctor always says, he is normal. Just because a kid is at the later range of normal does not mean anything is wrong. Even 18 months for walking is OK! Everyone focuses on the earlier stages of normal but try not to do that with Pierson. I'm sure he is wonderful and healthy and happy and just enjoy him every single day! He won't go to college without walking or talking.:) I was making myself crazy for awhile and wasting lots of good mommy energy on it!:)

As they say you spend one year waiting for them to talk and walk and then you spend 17 telling them to sit down and shut up!:p

Hope that helps. That's the way I think anyway.:)

[junkinmytrunk]

As they say you spend one year waiting for them to talk and walk and then you spend 17 telling them to sit down and shut up!

Jenn, you made me smille. Thanks for that. You're right

Lovin' It - good to know, definitely makes me feel better. FIFTEEN WORDS!!! What are they? That's AMAZING! We can say we knew her when....

And Klm, again, thanks for sharing the insight regarding your little fellas.

This mothering thang, just t'aint easy, is it? I think for me at least, I don't really have anyone to bounce things off of -- it's me and my mind goes a little wild at times. I do ask my mom what she thinks BUT...she's of two schools of thought. First, her grandson is perfect ;) and nothing is ever wrong with him, developmentally, and Second, she goes with child rearing philosophies and advice from waaaaaaaaaaaay back in the day (think 'feed a fever, starve a cold') so it's a little hard. But we're getting there!

Night night for now, gals.

[bunny nose]

Thanks for the new wording of the poem, Jenn! I love it nad it is being used. Thanks again so much!

Naps Nicky dropped his first nap about a month ago or so. He would just fight it like crazy, so it ended. He gets up much later than your babies do. About 8 or so. He has lucnh at around 12- 12:30. Then goes for his nap at about 1:30 and is down for about 2 1/2 - 3 hours.

Andrea Sorry Sean has the flu. Hope he feels better real soon!

[lovin'it]

Lovin' It - good to know, definitely makes me feel better. FIFTEEN WORDS!!! What are they? That's AMAZING! We can say we knew her when....


I really am not bragging here...I have no clue how this child learned it...she just did!

Her words: baby, mamma, dadda, pappa, cracker, milk, one, eat, more, bye-bye, hi, fish, head, ball, thank you.

Every old man in the streets is pappa. She says hi and bye-bye to everyone. If you ask her how old she is, she tells you one and smiles. When I am feeding her lunch, she ask for more the entire time. When I get her up from a nap, she points to herself and says baby. Every time we are leaving someone's house, she says thank you....although the YOU is more of a breath.

Anyways...that is Nina. She has been strong willed from the beginning. She was supposed to be born second, but pushed her sister out of the way the week of their birth.

[Tracie]

naps With me, AJ generally takes two good naps. For some reason, when he's with his Nana (who watches him while we work) he has gotten in the habit of skipping his afternoon nap. Makes him a bear at night. He also has a habit of not sleeping if he's somewhere other than home or Nana's (or the car). For instance, every Sunday he is in the church nursery smack in the middle of his morning nap, but he has napped there once. He's just having so much fun with the other kids that he doesn't want to stop to sleep!

tantrums we have had them here, too. He doesn't like to be pulled away from things he's not supposed to be playing with! Luckily, he's easily distracted. I've started doing the "ignore the tantrum, but not the child" thing.

[Bernie & Matt]

Shifting to 1 nap IIRC, when DS did this, we started napping around 10 until 12. It seemed to gradually move more towards 11-1pm. It bothered me at the time b/c he napped straight through lunch, but that's the pattern he developed on his own. As he's gotten older, that nap got moved more towards after lunch. Now he naps from 12:30-2:30/3. On the weekends, he's notorious for napping for 3+ hrs. (catching up from day care :rolleyes: ) One thing's for sure, both my kiddos are BIG BIG BIG on sleep!

[Elenitsa]

Wow... I missed a whole lot!

Andrea ~ I do hope Sean feels better quickly!

Phart ~ I want to get my girl a puppet theater or some kind. Something to spark imagination. Maybe not today, but eventually.

Elly~ Don't know if I congratulated you , but congrats. H&H!!

Birthday drama... My SIL calls to tell me that the date for the party doesn't work for her (lives an hour away) and there's another family event scheduled for the next day. So she can't come both days, I told her that was fine, if she make it, well she can't. She wants to be there she says, so why can't I be flexible. Maybe have it like in April. I had to hold back the laughter. This IS so in-line with her character. How did I expect it to not crop up.

Tuni~ Good luck with the house.

[mom2amelia]

Ok, I'm way behind.

Elly - Congrats!!!

Phart - we are getting $ for classes from the grandparents for Phoebe. Amelia will be in camp full-time for 6 weeks this summer, so I'm hoping to do Kindermusik and My Gym with Phoebe. I also asked - when solicited - for books or GCs to book stores. There is literally NOTHING that Phoebe needs. Plus, we are trying to keep the house clutter-free while it's on the market.

Naps - Phoebe has never been a scheduled napper. She naps when we get around to it, or in the car. She's pretty easy going about it, thank goodness. She's almost always asleep when it's time to take Amelia to school or pick her up. Amelia was uber-scheduled. When I dropped Amelia to one nap, around 1 year, I fed her lunch first. I started doing lunch around 11, nap at 11:30ish (and of course, a snack after nap because that's too long to go before dinner). I thought she'd sleep better on a full stomach. She typically slept 2+ hours. I slowly pushed her lunch time back until she was napping from about 1-3. This is still her nap schedule - or the one we try to enforce. 1-3 is perfect for us because it gives us the whole morning free for activities (or did before Phoebe came along) and she wakes up in time to still do stuff in the afternoon.

lovin' it Nina is such a rock star!!

Andrea- get well vibes headed Sean's way. I hope he's back to 100% soon.

tuni - good luck with the house. We're on the market now. The market here could not be worse, so I think it'll be awhile before we start looking.

Nothing too new or exciting here. I'm going to DC for a week to see my new niece who was born Jan 13th at 29 weeks. She's coming home Monday and I'm going to stay with my sister for a week to help out. She's freaking out about bringing her home. She's been in the NICU since birth.

We're gearing up for Phoebe's birthday. I'm on the hunt for a poofy tutu. Anyone know of a good place to get one?

Hope everyone has a great weekend. Can you believe Feb is almost over? This year is going to go fast.

[JennW]

elenitsa - That is so rude about your SIL. People are unreal. I have a few family members (ILs) like that. You just want to scream, "It's not about you!"

mom2 - I know there is a site for tutu dresses somewhere. Ugh. I can't remember it. If you ask in the Sale Thread in Parenting, http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13122 they may know. That may be where I originally saw it.

[tunibell]

We didn't get the house. :( We came in second, and the winning bid was $10k higher than our bid (we bid the asking price). I'm definitely bummed, but I'm trying to be fatalistic about it...it wasn't "the" house for us, a better one is going to come up soon, etc.

mom2amelia - Oooo...My Gym classes are a great idea! I took Piper to a sample class and we both had a ball. And give that little niece of yours an extra smooch for us!!!

Naps - We're all kooky over here too. We had a good thing going for awhile - a 9 a.m. nap and a 1:00 p.m. nap, both lasting 1-1.5. But these days, it is a total crapshoot. She's clearly tired in the morning (yawning, eye rubbing, closing eyes while nursing) but she's having a lot of trouble with that early nap and the later one isn't guaranteed either. Some nights I have to put her down at 5:30 p.m. (she usually goes down at 6 p.m.) because she's ready to drop.

Andrea - I hope Mr. Sean is on the mend (and that you and your DH stay well).

Tantrums - Oh, yeah. You'd think I was bringing her to the gallows every time I change her diaper. DH has also pointed out (correctly) that she is way more prone to tantrums around me. She gives him much more leeway. Daddy is for fun time; Mommy just works here. :rolleyes:

junk - Piper doesn't walk or have any words either. (Although twice now she has announced "All Done!" which has been mind-blowing in the absence of the traditional mama, dada, etc.)

As they say you spend one year waiting for them to talk and walk and then you spend 17 telling them to sit down and shut up!

LOL. Thanks for the hee hee when I really needed one, Jenn!

[amychris03]

Elenitsa
My IL's aren't coming to Sams party. They wanted us to change the weekend because they were going to be out of town and we didn't budge because we figured if we did it this once, they'd expect it every year. They always go out of town this one week every year (which happens to be over Sam's birthday). So hopefully next year they will change the week of their trip.

Tantrums Yep, Sam has my temper, I just try to redirect. He is very determined to pull night lights out of the wall, press the button on the Carbon Monoxide detector, and play in the dog water. He gets VERY upset if I don't let him.;)

[ajb524]

Sean won the valentine's cutie contest. Thank you all so much for voting for him!!!!
http://onlineathens.com/classifieds/val_cuties/

[ellybella]

ajb congrats andrea! yay sean? does he win a prize? hope he's feeling better?

junk i often think how much harder this gig is than i ever imagined. i guess i always thought i'd be great at it and sometimes i really don't think i am.

lovin' holy smokes 15 words!!!! insane. and you lucky duck on the sleeping, i would be in heaven.

naps we're still do two naps, the first is around 8:30 or 9 for about an 1.5 hours and the second is around 1:30 for the same amount of time. today i put him down later since we were going to a birthday party at 2, at around 10 and it took him an hour of playing and some crying to go down then slept 2.5 hours!!!! those long naps for us are ra