October & November 2007 Babies - Loving our Fall Babies!

[CarrieCP]

I just feel kind of lost the last few days. The first few weeks were really hard, but I felt like I was doing well, following his cues and I could make him happy, but now it's like I'm starting all over.

Yup, that's how I feel, too. DS will be 7 weeks on Thursday, and it has been a tough stage. When he's not asleep or eating, he's making this sound that I can only describe as complaining. Between that and the baby acne, it's like living with a teenager!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

What a day! I talked to my doctor and she said my blood work came back abnormal and to follow up with my PCP. Unfortunately, I think I'm about to switch PCP's because I'm tired of waiting two hours for each appointment.

So I called the diabetes nurse that taught me about GD and she's going to call my doctor to get my results and talk to me. I'm not even sure I don't need another test since all I took is the one hour and that shouldn't be enough!

Then my LC came over and though we got her to latch, she still can't get my milk down so long story short, I'm going to wean from the pump and transition her to formula!

And if those two things can happen in the same day and I haven't burst into tears yet, then clearly the depression is getting better!

It seems that the last time we got her to latch, all she got was air so her last two feedings have been tough. Going to try the gripe water at the next go around!

[FSUSammy]

jenji - Sorry things are seeming like they are more difficult for you now. I really have no suggestions except find something that works and stick with it.

Jenn - I'm sorry you had a lot going on today. I hope your diabetes nurse can get more info. I'd have your OB give YOU a copy of your lab results that way YOU have it and you can easily take it to whomever you want. Plus sometimes seeing those numbers yourself will allow you to do simple google searches to find out what they are talking about when they say its abnormal. Also sorry to hear that you have to move to formula but believe me when I say that if the LC is telling you that its the best option for Natalie then do it. I know you weren't looking for advice or anything on this but....When I was in the hospital I wanted to BF so bad and I tried and tried but I had nothing coming out due to me having PCOS. I met with the LC and she confirmed that I might not have anything at all and DH and I realized after one night when DS was crying his head off because he was starving and getting NOTHING from me that we had to go to formula. Just remember that she got several GREAT weeks of GREAT milk from her momma!

Interaction - I have the Baby Einstein's activity gym and I'll lay him in that some days. I also have a Boppy tummy time mat and lay him on that some days. Lately he is loving his bouncer seat though. The little animals that hang from the top are close enough where he can hit them and he just loves it so I'm sitting him in that more and more. When he's fussy and I'm holding him I'll sing little songs to him and he does like that too.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Jenn - Rough day for you, but congrats on not crying!!! Hope you can get the diabetes under control.

Interaction - Ellie may be the only baby in the world who would rather be left alone than held most of the time. She likes to breast feed and will occassionally sleep on my shoulder, but what she really enjoys is just laying on her back and looking around. She will entertain herself for 20 minutes at a time by just looking at nothing and laughing. I've been putting her under the gymini, some other toy that we got with lights and music, or the mobile in her crib, but she's just as happy looking at nothing while laying in the pack n play. I feel like I'm neglecting her, but sometimes when I hold her or get in her face to talk/play, so gets fussy, so I just back off and she is fine. She also loves her bouncy seat but hates the swing.

7 Weeks - I think she must be gowing through some sort of development this week. She isn't eating more that normal, but she has been sleeping all the time. The night time has been pretty much the same, getting up once or twice, but during the day she has been falling asleep while playing. She hates doing tummy time and usually screams bloody murder, but yesterday I put her down and within 5 minutes she was sucking on her hand and fast asleep. This was right after she had just woken from a long nap and ate. The day before she fell asleep under her other toy, and today she took a 3 hour nap. I was nervous that she may be sick, but she doesn't feel warm and when she's awake she's happy.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Melanie - sounds like a growth spurt. As for the tummy time, most babies cry during it, but it's a necessity for them to get some time on their tummy to strengthen those neck muscles and upper body.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

OK, now I'm worried that Natalie is sleeping too much. She spends time in the bouncy seat and the swing but usually falls asleep in them. She spends most of her time attached to one of us, either fussing or sleeping. I thought this was normal for seven weeks. I do try tummy time often and put her in the boppy which she doesn't love. (Oh, i tried the bumbo seat after Melanie posted a picture and she doesn't love that it either!)

Guess I need to get out her gym thing and give it a shot. She does seem a lot more alert, even in the last day or two!

Jenji, I was talking to my LC today about how much more children need from us at this age. And that the first six weeks, it's just sleeping and eating and now that they're awake more, they need more from us. So maybe that's why you feel like you're starting over? Hope it gets better!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Jenn - try laying Natalie propped up on the boppy on her tummy, or even just laying down and have her on your stomach while she is on her tummy. As for the bumbo, don't force that unless she is ready for it, she needs to have really good head control and it's actually not even recommended until about 3-4 months. Fussing is ok, so don't feel bad if she is fussy, it's good for them.

My girls sleep quite a bit still (they are 5 weeks today) but that also helps with development. My girls outright cry at times and it happens, having a 14 month old that needs my attention as well I can't always drop what I amdoing with him and get them. I am able to have tummy time usually only when Easton is down for a nap, so they don't get trampled

[Jenn (and Bill)]

you mean like this? just wante to show off my daughter's mohawk!

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u191/Jennifervp/FFE68551-DDCF-4325-8FEA-AA8A34015C4.jpg

[PinkMartini]

What are you ladies doing as far as interacting with/stimulating your babes?

Honestly, as far as 'stimulating' goes, EVERYTHING at this point is stimulating to them, so I don't 'try' to, kwim? Taylor is content to sit in her bouncy chair/swing or on the boppy on my lap. She likes being held and I've had her on her play mat a few times now. Just now starting tummy time as well (can only do it when my 13 month old DS is sleeping otherwise she gets run over).

OMG Jenn, that is the cutest picture :D

[FSUSammy]

Jenn that pic is ADORABLE!!! Check out that hair!!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Jenn - the hairstyle is great. Yup like that, even a little higher if she can stand it. Sometimes babies don't know what to do being completely flat on their tummy when they are usually on their back. They like to be able to look around and if completely flat they see floor which isn't so exciting.

Our 1 month appt is scheduled for 2 weeks before they are 2 months old, stupid why I even have to bother with the 1 month at that point. We have had weight checks and the last one was at 1 month.

[mobe63]

Parker is sleeping right now...but not for long I am afraid (he has been asleep for 45 minutes, I just woke up from the nap!) I am having a hard time keeping up with you guys and him!

Peever: Elimination sucks, No dairy or tomatoes for me right now. I hate having to look at he ingredients in everything. He had diarrhea sunday and monday, yesterday really no BM's I just want some real poop from him. Dr had me feed pedialyte for 3 feedings on Monday. He is acting fine, just weird stuff coming out the backside. As for fussiness it is better now, but man when I eat cheese he is very cranky.

Jenn--the picture is too cute! Hang in there!

Jenji—Parker loves lights and shadows

Interacting/activity: Everyday is different. Some days he LOVES his bouncy seat, other days he hates it. Yesterday was a hate day. As for tummy time...he sleeps on his tummy now (I know I am a bad mom, but he gags/chokes/stops breathing on his back). But he did hate being on his tummy when he was younger--he is 10 weeks today--I just see what kind of mood he is in and adapt his activity to that.

[gardenmommy]

Hey mommies,

Haven't posted much since life has been pretty quiet lately, and fortunately I don't seem to have any of the reflux issues so many of you have and am no help.

I do think we are going through our 6 week growth spurt/fussy time. Thatcher has been transitioning from 4-6 oz bottles but is still eating every 3 hours, he is just being piggy. And the pat few days he either falls asleep eating, or crying.:rolleyes: Not exactly the drowsy state they should be in!

Stimulation~ We started using the play gym last week, and DD and I both get down and play with him. We also read books with DD everyday...Thatcher just listens but I did the same thing with DD and she LOVES LOVES LOVES books, so I'm hoping we have he same result. We have some tummy time each day too, btu I haven't broken out he boppy yet...I'll have to do that!

Jenn~ that pic is way too cute! Looks like it's time for a new avatar!

[jenji]

CarrieCP glad to hear I'm not the only one going through this. I guess we'll find our way through eventually

Jenn - so sorry for everything you've been dealing with the last few days. hopefully finally having a solution to the feeding issues will help.
That picture is too cute!

Sammy thanks for the response even if you don't have suggestions. It's just nice to know there are other moms out there listening :)


thanks for the responses ladies!
Today is going better. I'm thinking maybe DS has been fussy because he's bored. he's been more alert since his 6 week growth spurt, but I guess I haven't been giving him enough to look at. today we've been playing more and trying new things and he's been much happier.
Today DS started tracking things with his eyes and moving his head to follow too. That was cool. I'm having a hard time figuring out where he's "supposed" to be developmentally since he was a month early.
I will have to try the boppy for tummy time because he definitely is not all about being flat on his tummy

[spps]

Hey everyone!

Checking in here quickly even though i haven't had a chance to fully catch up with the thread -- our DSL had been down for a week and a half and now it is finally back. :)

stimulation - DD loves her bouncy seat -- we have the older aqaurium one and she loves to watch those fish. She likes her gymini espacially if someone is there to move the toys around for her as DS is fond of doing. Other than that i often give her some monologoue as we do stuff around the house...

I also have gone dairy-free as it seems to make DD's reflux worse. It stinks b/c I love cheese but it hasn't been too horrible so far....

One tip on for anyone avoiding dairy is to look for kosher supervision. If you see this symbol http://www.oukosher.org/images/layout/logo_ou_small.gif (usually in black) on a product with no D next to it, it means that the product is both dairy free and has not been produced on dairy equipement... This is not the
same as the ® symbol.

[mlfallis]

Wow this thread is moving.

Add me to the no-dairy group. I have also cut out chocolate, citrus fruit, spices, garlic, and soy, which isn't a big deal since I really don't eat it. All I can say is I am hungry. There are so many foods I want and can't have. You have no idea how much I would love a piece of cheese.

Stimulation: during morning awake time he plays in his gym by himself, he like it without me better, and we read some books, afternoon time is for tummy time and I normally play on the floor with him with other toys. when DH gets home, he walks around the house and does a running commentary. I also normally have the radio on so we are constantly listening to music.

Jenn: That photo is great.

[mobe63]

Melissa: cheese, or cheesecake, or queso...it all sounds good to me

[Ericka_Jarett]

Took this today in their Christmas outfit

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n96/erickakulm/Twins/DSC02959.jpg
Julianna in front, Katelyn in back

[CarrieCP]

Question for those who have eliminated dairy -- How long did it take to see an improvement in the baby's reflux? Does it take a while?

[merjmo]

jenji: have you considered trying a new mom's group in your area? I'm in one and we talk about development and where babies should be, etc. Plus I get to meet area moms and make new friends (that sounds corny, but it's nice to meet people who are going through what I'm going through).

[mlfallis]

Carrie: Almost instantally. However, it takes 2 weeks for dairy to get out of your system. They way I figured out about dairy is my afternoon snack for 2 days in a row was cheese and crackers. Then we noticed after his 7-8 pm feeding he was horrible with gas. It takes about 4 hours from what you eat to effect your breast milk. Also I have read 1/3 of babies can't handle the sugars in dairy. Hope you aren't joining us.

[Peever]

Just got back from DD's 2 month check up. She's 11 lbs 15.5 ozs. I thought she was 12 lbs so I was pretty darn close. That's the 80th percentile. She's just over 22" for the 44th percentile. Her head circumference was the 90th percentile. She hated the shots even worse than her brother did I think. I gave her some Tylenol and hopefully she's not too miserable today

thrush is starting to come back so that sucks. Her tongue didn't look too bad though so the ped just gave me some tongue depressors and I'm just going to scrape her tongue daily and treat myself and hopefully avoid putting her on meds again. She also can't process dairy and soy proteins, just like DS. It took a few days to notice an improvement, but things are getting better. The ped said it will take at least a week or two to see real improvements. She's less gassy and more content now. She does have a rash on her face and I think it's from what I was eating. The ped said to give it a week or so and see if it gets better.

She actually slept from 9-4 last night so that was a miracle. I had her on her side in a sleep positioner, but it wasn't that tight so she got her upper half on her tummy and I think that's why she slept so well. The girl loves to sleep on her stomach. I talked with the ped about it and she said it's up to me. I'm going to still try and keep her on her side, but I'm not too worried about her because she's freakishly strong. I just think being on her tummy helps with the gas issues and makes her feel better.

I'm supposed to give her vitamins now because I'm breast feeding and dairy free. I wonder how well those will go over? I'm going to look for the probiotic she recommended to help with the thrush too.

Just a few comments for now and hopefully I'll have time for real SOs later...

Fussiness- Just remember that weeks 4-8 are the fussiest times for babies so hang in there. Things should improve by 8 weeks and should be good by 12. Also remember that there's typically a 6 week growth spurt.

Stimulation- I don't try very hard. Pretty much everything is stimulating. I hold her and talk to her a lot. I smile with her and I sing. She listens while I read books to DS. DS is stimulating enough for the both of us! I manage to give her tummy time about once a day and let her lay on the floor and kick around for a while too.

Dairy free- It will take at least a week to notice a big improvement and it takes longer to get the full effect.

Gotta go for now...

[October2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[FSUSammy]

Ericka - What cuties!!!!!

Peever - I hope your DD manages to not be too miserable today too. That's awesome that she got so much sleep last night. Hopefully it wasn't a fluke.

Me - Last night we decided to try not having DS swaddled for bedtime. We used the sleep positioner and kept him on his sides all night. He uses it during naptime in the day and since even with the miracle blanket he manages to get both arms and both feet out of it I figured it might be a good time to attempt to unswaddle him at night and see how we do. For the most part he gave me a good 5 hour nap which is about his average.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Peever - Our DD's could be twins!!! I think Ellie weighs just about the same, and last night she slept from 9-4 for the first time as well. I had to go in at 2:45 to make sure she was still breathing and to pump. She went right back to sleep from 4-6:15.

Tummy Time - I like to put her on the couch or the bed and then I sit on the floor so that we are at eye level.

[daisysue62]

Ericka~ What cute little girls you have!

Stimulation~ I haven't done a lot in this department simply because I don't have the time to really focus on him except during DD's nap (if she decides to take one!). I figure he's getting a lot of stimulation by going with us to Indoor Park, watching DD play from his bouncer or swing, and by me holding him in my lap and talking to him. I notice he loves to look at lights so I'll turn on the lamp behind the couch which makes him happy for quite awhile. He's starting to like being in his activity gym more now and loves the mirror. We do tummy time every now and again which he doesn't like, and seems to fall asleep every time I try! He seems to prefer practicing holding his head up when I hold him at my shoulder.

Ethan has been challenging to settle down for sleep at night which is getting old. For some reason he has a hard time falling asleep at night but has no problem falling asleep for naps during the day. I'm wondering if he's sleeping too much during the day so he's awake from 6-10ish pm. I've been trying to watch the clock so if he's been awake for 2 hours I'll do what I can to induce sleep so he doesn't get over tired. That's happened a few times and then he cries for hours before he'll give it up and fall asleep.

[gardenmommy]

Erica~ Your girls are so adorable!! And I still think their names are really great every time I read them.

Sick little guy~ I think Thatcher has a cold of some sort :( He has been remarkably fussy, and yesterday his voice started getting kind of raspy. He ha a bit of a stuffy nose, and feels pretty hot all the time. I called the ped and they said I could give him tylenol to help with sleeping, but he's sleeping ok, so I'd rather not if we don't need to.

I just feel so bad for him :(

Daytime sleeping is ok, but I've noticed he usually needs to cry for a few minutes before he can really fall asleep, like he has pent up energy and needs to cry it out. Nightime sleeping is great though...last night he slept from 10-4 and then went back down right away until 8.

The other thing that I find hilarious is that Thatcher has pretty much lost all his hair on the top of his head, but it's all still there on the sides and back, he totally looks like a little old man with a comb over, but without the part to comb over!

Here's a new pic from yesterday...
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb228/gardenmommy_photos/journal%20photos/PB280043.jpg

[jenji]

merjmo - I haven't joined any mommy groups. I have been to one LLL meeting. I need to find some other groups in my area. most of my friends don't have kids yet and the ones who do have kids that are a year or two old already. thanks for the suggestion

[FSUSammy]

garden - That same hair thing is happening to Michael. He has a ton still on the back and sides but he's losing almost all of it up top! I hope Thatcher starts to feel better soon.

Me - Mikey slept through the night again. Woohoo for a full 8 hours! I thought for sure that when I fed him last at 8pm that he'd be up around 2 to eat again but nope he didn't wake up again until almost 6am! If only I could get him to do this every day!

[CarrieCP]

Melissa & Peever -- Thanks for the replies re: dairy sensitivity. I eliminated it for a week and have been starting to eat small amounts again, and it doesn't seem to have any effect, so I don't think it's caused his fussiness.

GardenMommy and FSUSammy -- Our sons must go to the same hairstylist! My husband calls the style The Costanza. I think he has a great head start on growing a mullet.

Us -- I think we had a false alarm on the reflux thing -- I think he was just going through a tough time with the 6-week growth spurt and with feeding issues. I had gone to a lactation consultant because I thought my forceful letdown was making DS miserable. She disagreed and said it was silent reflux. So I went to the pediatrician, and he seemed a little skeptical, but told us to try Zantac for a week and see if there was any improvement. But DS has been totally fine ever since that appointment, so I've never given him a dose. He still gets upset when he chokes during a feeding, but we're getting better at avoiding that. I am so, so, so glad that he doesn't have reflux disease.

Re: sleeping: I'm so jealous that some of you have such good sleepers! We had ONE amazing night where he slept for 6 hours + 3 hours, but now we're back to waking up every couple of hours. And our swaddling days seem to be numbered, because he keeps breaking out, but can't sleep well without it. Ugh!

[FSUSammy]

Is anyone else's DC a big drooler??? I can't seem to keep DS's mouth area dry because he's constantly drooling.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Ellie's sleeping through the night was just a freak phenomenon. She went from sleeping 8 hours one night to up every hour on the dot from 11-6 last night. I just wanted to cry. She didn't even want to eat, so I had such a hard time getting her back to sleep. I think I got a total of 3 hours of sleep last night.

Carrie - Someone mentioned to me today that I should try swaddling her with one arm out for a while in order to wean her off the swaddle and allow her to find her hand for sucking in the night. I think I will try that.

She's also been having a hard time BF'ing lately. I don't know what it is, but she just won't stay on. She keeps popping on and off. I don't think she has reflux or anything, but I think the popping is making her spit up. I don't know though. I can't tell what is causing what. I hope it's just a phase. I also don't think it has to do with my letdown because if anything, I feel like my breasts have regulated so much over the past week. The only problem is that she is so inconsistent with her eating in the middle of the night that they are still very full overnight.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Hair - not only does DD have a mohawk but she has a bald spot in a line across the back of her head - where she rubs it when she's laying down. The good news is that the stuff on top is coming back in!

Drool - yes! big time drooling since the saliva started (when did that magically happen?) The best part is that she likes to burrow into my chest so I have drool spots all over me at all times!

DD is doing better at nighttime but it's not consistent. Last night she only went 5 hours between feedings (1:30-6:30) and then we had a really rough one where she was fussy and spitty and kept pushing the bottle out of her mouth. Thankfully, they've been better since but I'm a little paranoid about switching her to formula. Guess we'll see...

[daisysue62]

Drooling~ DS definitely drools quite a bit, I've already broken out the bibs for him. Poor guy spits up pretty often as well, lots of times all over me and the couch!

Ethan slept pretty good last night despite sleeping practically all day yesterday. Must be working on a growth spurt! He slept from 10:30pm to 2:00am for his long stretch, woke once at 4:30am and again every hour until 8am when I was up and going with DD for the day.

[UTChick]

I've only had time to read the last few pages but wanted to quickly chime in on the dairy-free diet. DS had a milk protein allergy and Caroline has tested positive as well, so this is my second time to do a dairy and soy-free diet. It really does get easier. It took awhile to figure out my meals and snacks and all, but once I did, it really wasn't too bad. DS outgrew the allergy at 6 months and I am hoping Caroline won't have it too long either. Amy's Organic has some good frozen dairy-free burritos which were good for days when I didn't have time to fix something for lunch. I just think about when my kiddos are teenagers and I get to say, "I gave up pizza, ice cream, Starbuck's lattes, etc." for you for 6 months; the least you can do is clean your room!" Or something to that effect! ;)

Hopefully I will be back this weekend to do SOs and update.

[FSUSammy]

Ok got another question for you ladies. Anyone experiencing cramping. I feel like I'm having menstrual type cramps at times, not too painful but definitely noticeable. I take it this is probably my uterus still contracting???

[CarrieCP]

Ok got another question for you ladies. Anyone experiencing cramping. I feel like I'm having menstrual type cramps at times, not too painful but definitely noticeable. I take it this is probably my uterus still contracting???

How funny that you mention it -- I just started feeling crampy today! I thought I was done with all that.

[Mom2B-10.07]

I'm not crampy, but I noticed an increase in my discharge lately. I can't believe I am 8 weeks post-pardum and still wearing full maxi pads.

[Peever]

Just checking in. DD is happily sucking her thumb in her chair. I've been letting the thrush go for a while, but DD is not nursing all that well and fussing when I try to nurse her so I'm not sure if that's bothering her or what. She's still been a bit gassy and fussy and her diapers still don't look normal, but it hasn't even been a week yet and things are getting better so hopefully there will continue to be improvement.

Sammy- She did really well after her shots. I was surprised. What a good sleeper you have!

Melanie- DD didn't do as well the following night, but last night was pretty good. Not as good as 9-4, but I'll take it! Sounds like they are twins. DD has been difficult to nurse lately too.

Kellie- DD has the same problem settling down sometimes. Either she sleeps all evening or she's up all evening. I'm sure she gets overtired too, but it's really hard to get her to sleep when DS is home and I'm flying solo in the evenings.

garden- I hope Thatcher is feeling better. DD lost a lot of her hair on top too, but not the sides or back so she's got some male pattern baldness with a female mullet going on. Very attractive. It's growing back in, but I'm sure it will take a while to get as long as her newborn hair.

Carrie- I'm glad he doesn't seem to have reflux. Hopefully it's just the typical newborn stuff that he'll outgrow soon.

Drooling- Just a little when she decides to blow bubbles, but otherwise she stays dry. Not looking forward to the constant drool again!

Jenn- That pic is great. My niece had a mohawk like that too.

Kathy- What test did they do? A stool sample? Sounds like we have the same kids!

Cramping- None yet.

Better go be productive while DD makes out with her hand for a while.

[ash313]

Hello!!!!

I *finally* made it over here.
I have not been on since Henry was born!
I actually feel bad that I have been gone so long! :o
Everyone's little babies are SO cute!!!
I have a lot of catching up do but glad to see that everyone is doing well.
Just wanted to pop in a say hi

[mobe63]

Drooling: Yes..all the time. He loves playing with his tounge (sticking out, licking me, etc.) I also have been using bibs!

Cramping: Mine are more "poop cramps" sorry if TMI, but they get pretty painful. I thought labor was bad!!

Sleeping: The past few nights we were going backwards, waking every 2 hours. But last night I just told myself he had to sothe himself and not use me as a pacifier. It worked. 930p-3a!! That is a first for us.

Dairy free: I have been (as much as possible, it seems like everything has dairy and I keep missing it!) for over a week now. He has had the yuckiest poops since last Sunday. Runny, and very smelly. The doctor is not concerned unless he gets dehydrated. He is feeling fine, just has a very smelly booty! I almost want to drink some milk and see what his poop is like!

[mobe63]

QOTD: For all the dairy free ladies...what are you eating? Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. I have no variety in my diet!

[Mom2B-10.07]

Ellie isn't a big drooler. I just called the ped because she hasn't pooped since Friday (it's now Monday). She doesn't seem uncomfortable though. The nurse said it was ok unless she gets uncomfortable or when she does poop it is hard. She said I could try giving her some sugar water to get things going. I may try that later today. Although she hasn't pooped, I ate some beans the other day for the first time and she farted all day the next day. She never farted before. It's pretty funny because again, she does not seem uncomfortable.

Had another worst parent in the world moment again last night. Saturday night I had a couple of beers with dinner, so I dumped my milk and she got a bottle from my frozen stash last night. Well, DH was giving it to her and she started screaming. She was so hungry, but whenever he put the bottle in her mouth she screamed. I thought that maybe her tummy hurt because I ate a lot of cheese the day before, so I just consoled her for a while and after about 30 minutes she calmed down so I decided to try and nurse her. She was hungry and ate fine. DH and I stayed in her room with her until she fell asleep in her crib. As we were in there, DH opened up the bottle and smelled it and started gagging. The milk was spoiled!!! I have no idea how that happened because it was only in the fridge for a day defrosting. I was so upset with myself for not thinking that that could have been the problem earlier instead of continuing to try and give her the bottle. I felt so bad.

In better news, we had 3 nights this week where she slept from 9-4 and then from 4-7. I only had to go in once around 2 to give her the pacifier. I am feeling much better now that I'm able to get some rest.

[spps]

drooling - DD is not a drooler.

dairy free meals -
breakfast is usaully dry cereal ( i never have liked it with milk), oatmeal, toast with margarine or peanut butter or jam, french toast, eggs
lunch: pasta with marinara or pesto, potato blintzes, pita dipped into chumus or turkish salad, falafel balls, and israeli salad, tuna, eggsalad, soup
dinner: various kinds of chicken (cranberry, pesto, barbeque, grilled, cacciotorre, cornflake, apricot glazed, rosemary, mustard, etc), meatballs, meatloaf, meatsauce, chicken-pastrami roll and we do lots of rice, orzo, potato kugrl (pudding), noodle pudding, brocoli souffle, couscus,baked potatoes

DD just got over her first illness. DS had a cold and a fever last week and he ever so graciously shared with DD who came down with a fever, cold and was viomitting. Fun times. :rolleyes: But now she is on the mend and much much happier.

mom2b - Great sleeping you have going there!

[CarrieCP]

Melanie - Your story reminded me of something I read recently about sour milk. Check out this KellyMom article, specifically the last part about excess lipase enzymes: http://www.kellymom.com/bf/pumping/lipase-expressedmilk.html. Don't know if that's your situation or not, but I wanted to share it just in case.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Carrie - Thanks for the article. I'm not sure if that's the problem because her night time bottle is always milk that was expressed the previous night and we never had a problem. I actually think that this particular bag of milk was from early on when I wasn't pumping 5 oz at a time. I think that I probably combined the milk from 2 different feedings - one that was already in the fridge and one that was freshly expressed. I think the change in temperature when the 2 got combined may have caused the problem.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Just wanted to check in. I had a big fancy work affair tonight and left my daughter for about 6.5 hours in the capable hands of her father. Man, was it hard. I had to get dressed up and put on real shoes and try to remember how to be professional and adult. Of course, all I could talk to anyone about was my daughter. I've totally become one of those moms!!! And it happened so fast! Honestly, I brought the pictures so I could look at them, not to show them off! Needless to say, it's good to be back at home in my pjs, gazing at my DD!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

PS...I hope I don't have any issues with milk I've frozen! That could be disastrous but I guess I'll know soon enough!

[mobe63]

Jenn: I am proud of you! I couldn't leave for that long

[mlfallis]

Jenn: I agree way to go leaving for that long, and putting on real shoes. i am dreading having to get dressed up for Chrismas

[FSUSammy]

Way to go Jenn! Go you for leaving her home for that long with your DH!

[FSUSammy]

QOTD: Anyone else noticing an increase in discharge?

I've noticed a lot more eggwhite-ish discharge when I wipe but its been going on for well over a week so I doubt its tied to my body trying to ovulate. Then again what do I know! LOL

[CarrieCP]

Anyone have tips & tricks for keeping your baby's nails short and dull? DS scratched himself pretty badly yesterday. I had just trimmed his nails the day before, but they were still pretty sharp, and they seem to be too short to file. What's the secret? Do you bite & peel their nails, or what?

[FSUSammy]

Nails - I trim with the little scissors and then file what I can. Even though they seem too short I'm still able to make them smooth.

[jenji]

discharge yep. I've had more the last few days.

DS seems to be having another mini-growth spurt. he ate pretty much all afternoon and evening and slept for almost 6 hours last night!!! a new record. woohoo!
My boobs are killing me today, but I'm just glad he slept so long.

[gardenmommy]

nails~ Good ? Carrie, but I'm no help... I swear I cut Thatchers just about every day and he still manages to scratch himself a lot...they grow so fast!!

discharge~ I had more than usual a week ago, but it made sense because I got my first AF Saturday!! Just an fyi for those first timers who had a C/S...the first AF after delivery was excrutiating for me. Not sure if it's like that for everyone, or just C/S moms or just me, but the past few days have been really reall painful.:(

QOTD?? What is everyone getting baby for the holidays?? I'm looking for good ideas!

[mlfallis]

Garden: DS will be getting
Fisher Price amazing animals train, all 4 of the extra animals, and the monkey hut
Fisher price Drop n' Roar Dinasour
lamaze stacking bugs
shopping cart cover
some nursery rhyme books, mainly eric carle
cloth diapers in next size up

this is not all from us but grandparents as well. he is also getting money to put in his education fund since he won't remember this Christmas

[spps]

nails - I made that DH's job, he does nails for both kidsm so I have no tips.

discharge - nope. none here.

gifts - For Hanunkah DD is getting sone clothing from us, and MIL took DS to the store to pick a present for his sister, so she is getting a teething ring from him.

DD had her 2 month ped visit today. She is solidly in the 25% for everything. Weight was 9lb, 9 oz, height 22 in, and head 14 3/4. SHe also apparently has her first ear infection as a result of the bronchiolitis she had last week.

[Peever]

Whew! I'm way behind. I've been going crazy with the elimination diet crap. I accidentally had something with traces of soybeans over the weekend and that was not fun. DD was screaming unconsolably, was clawing at the rash on her face, puking, diarrhea, refused to eat, and was generally miserable. So I had absolutely no free time. Things are much better now though.

She's a huge thumb sucker now and does it all day long. DS is still addicted to sucking his fingers so we'll see if she's a die hard like he is. I will say it's nice that I've never had to worry about a pacifier and she can now put herself back to sleep by sucking on her thumb. She does get a little ticked off if her thumb falls out and she has trouble getting it back in there so I had to help her out with it once last night. I knew she wasn't hungry because I just fed her.

Trying for a few SOs before I have to pump...

spps- So sorry she's sick! I hope she's feeling better soon.

garden- We're just getting DD a playmat/gymini thing. I never had one with DS. We already have plenty of toys and clothes so she doesn't need anything else.

jenji- Glad you had a good night's sleep!

Carrie- I just use a clipper and make sure to round the corners and keep them short.

Sammy- Not a lot of discharge yet, but I'm bfing and I think that dries things up a bit.

Jenn- I bet it was kind of nice to have some time to yourself! Good for you!

Melanie- BF babies often go several days without pooping. As long as she is comfortable or has more solid poop, try not to worry about it. I can't believe she's never farted! I was just telling DH that I don't even want to know how many hours I've spent bicycling babies legs to work out the gas. My poor kids with the sensitive tummies are huge gas buckets. Sorry about the bottle. I wouldn't have thought to check that either. You've got a great sleeper!

mobe- Dairy free is pretty easy to do. You can substitute rice milk for regular milk for cooking and baking and the vanilla rice milk is great with cereal. I don't have a ton of time right now, but I'll try to give you some ideas later. Try and go 100% dairy free for at least 2 weeks and if his poop doesn't improve, it may be the soy.

[PinkMartini]

QOTD?? What is everyone getting baby for the holidays??

I'm right there with ya. I have NO CLUE. We have a activity gym (From DS) and all kinds of infant toys from him as well. I think we'll end up getting her some girl clothes (she doesn't have many yet - has been wearing all her brothers old stuff) and maybe a few new girly toys. We're going to get them each an ornament as well :)

Anyone have tips & tricks for keeping your baby's nails short and dull?

As crazy as this sounds, I bite Taylor's off. I learned that trick when I took DS to his first WBV, when the nurse told me she almost cut the tip off of her DC's finger.. She told me she started biting them off so I tried it and it works. Have done that with DS since then and have done it with Taylor since she was born as well :)

QOTD: Anyone else noticing an increase in discharge?

Oh yea! I'm behind you, at only 5 1/2 weeks PP but the past few days I've noticed an increase in discharge... Like A LOT. Just when I finish bleeding :(

[FSUSammy]

garden - Thanks for the info about the first AF after a c-section. I hope it was just you though, I don't want pain! LOL

Holiday gifts - I want to get him some books since we don't really have any and maybe some toys that he can use around 6 months. I don't know. We really aren't going to get him much since he really won't know what's going on.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Just wanted to post the pic I'm using for our holiday cards. DH is Catholic, I'm Jewish. We are raising her non-denominational Christian, but my parents will freak if we have no acknowledgement of Hanukkah and just had her in a santa hat.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w192/melanierichards/IMG_2092.jpg

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Melanie, that's a great pic....love the smile!

Discharge - no, nothing I've noticed. I started BCP on Sunday so my AF-free days are almost over!

Nails - no suggestions because I'm doing a terrible job. I'm afraid to use the clippers and she doesn't love the file! I may try the biting them off....it's always worked for mine!

Gifts - no clue but I haven't done any Xmas shopping yet so why would I start with her???

So maybe karma got back at me because since my big night out, I've been sick. Major cold that makes it so hard to take care of DD while I'm sneezing. I've washed my hands like 100x today and blown my nose about that many so that it's nice and red. Ugh! Last night when DH got home, I napped for three or four hours (and missed a pumping session). Thankfully, today she gave me a couple of good stretches while she slept in her swing so I didn't feel like I was breathing on her all day!

We used our first batch of frozen breast milk today and we're trying formula tonight. Ugh!!! What a day!

[FSUSammy]

Melanie - What a great pic!

Jenn - Did you start BCP before getting your first PP AF?? And if so is that what doctors normally recommend? I'm not going back on BCP so I'm just curious.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Sammy - yes. Since it's possible to get PG before AF actually returns, she told me to just start the BCP and we'll essentially be forcing my body to have a cycle.

[FSUSammy]

Jenn - Very interesting. Well at least you won't have AF surprise you, you can pretty much count on when she'll arrive. I have to tell you as much as I'm against going on BCP I'm starting to think that maybe I should just go ahead and take it. Decisions Decisions!

Me - Does anyone here know what doctor I need to talk to to get evaluated for postpartum depression. I've been an emotional wreck for the past 7 weeks and at times I feel very overwhelmed with the baby. I just don't know if what I'm feeling is PPD or if its because of my messed up family. Not to get into a long story but when I was in the hospital my mom decided she would not be in my son's life so I haven't seen or talked to my parents, 1 of my brothers, or any of my aunts since then. So I can't tell if my emotional probs are because of that or if it is PPD. So I think I need to see a doc to get evaluated.

[mobe63]

Peever--Sorry you had such a rough time with the soybeans. DS doesn't have that severe reaction when I eat something I am not supposed to. His poop got weird after I had been mostly dairy free for 2 weeks.

Mom2B--I love the pic!

Sammy--I think you could talk with your Ob or PCP. Both should be able to help with PPD or just excessive stress about your family. I hope you can get some help :)

Jenn--Get better!! I start BCP as well...I haven't have AF yet and I am on me 2nd pack. Dr said I shouldn't have AF untill I stop BFing.

nails--I have no tips, because I suck at it. He has 2 scratches on his face right now

eta:Our stomach issues: DS has crazy amounts of gas. He farts all the time, he is not uncomfertable, but just keeps tooting. He is only having 1 poop a day but it is still runny. I don't know what to eat or not eat to make it normal. I am calling the doctor again today..

discharge--not more than normal

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Sammy - I had to ask my OB for a antidepressant prescription at my 6 week appt. She didn't even bring it up. Then when I told her the one I was on before I got pregnant wasn't safe for breastfeeding, she didn't want to give me Zoloft, which I knew to be the safest (thanks to these boards!) So I asked my PCP who I was seeing that week anyway. So I guess it depends on your doctors! I'm also going to therapy again and I'm supposed to see a psychiatrist to manage my meds but I'm not sure I will unless I need to switch!

And I, like you, am not sure if it's PPD or just all the other crazy crap going on in my life. But I guess it doesn't matter, as long as we get help!

Mobe, my doc said I'd get AF when I hit the sugar pills of the second pack and that I might have some spotting before that! We'll see.

[FSUSammy]

Jenn - I'm waiting for my OB nurse to call me back to see if they'll prescribe anything in the meantime. I guess I need to find a psychiatrist to start therapy. I've never done that but part of me always knew I was destined to need therapy. Quick question about BCPs and depression. I remember when I was on one form of BCP years ago that I'd get really bad depression close to AF and I ended up being on prozac for like a week before AF would start and that helped. What BCP are you on and do you know if it will make your depression worse?

[mobe63]

Sammy: I had the same problem with Ortho-tri cyclen, lo, and yasmin. We called it PMDD, but it was b/c of the pills. I had to take Zoloft the week before, and then I started taking it all the time.

Jenn: I am on micronor, and there are no sugar pills! I had a little spotting when I first started, but nothing major! I loved Zoloft, I was on 25mg which is a very low dose, but it helped so much. I haven't needed anything since I got off the pill before I got pregnant.

[FSUSammy]

mobe - I think it was Yasmin that I was on when I had to take the prozac the week before. I swear I remember seeing a Yasmin commercial AGES ago where they advertised that it was supposed to help with PMDD but it seemed to accentuate it.

Me - Well the OB nurse called back and told me about some Postpartum Center, and what's funny is I happened upon their website on my own while I was waiting on the call. So I called them and the therapist called me back and she should be able to fit me in on Monday, and of course made sure that I'm ok with waiting that long. She said they take my insurance, I hope she's right! But whatever I need to get help before this gets any worse.

[ash313]

Sammy sorry to hear your feeling overwhelmed and sorry to hear about your family. You are doing the right thing by talking to someone, it should really help.

Discharge - mine increased a few weeks ago then almost a week ago I had some EWCM that was tinged pink. Haven't had any since. And I stopped my pp bleeding many weeks ago. I really hope I am not ovulating already! Need to get on the mini pill.

Sleep question this might have been discussed already but where are your babies sleeping? I am having the MOST DIFFICULT time getting Henry to sleep in his crib. I have a hard enough time getting him to sleep when he's not being held. Is anyone's baby in a crib yet? How did you transition. He's starting to sleep in his bouncy and in his swing but as soon as I put him in that crib - poof! He's awake! I've even started to swaddle him again. Sometimes it helps, most times he just gets po'd.

[FSUSammy]

Sleep ~ Michael sleeps in his bassinet at night and then during the day he always sleeps in his crib. I've been doing that since he came home so that he got used to his crib and he's never had a problem with it. Sometimes when I do put him down in his crib he'll still be awake so I put on the cd player and put on some classical music that he loves and he dozes right off to sleep.

[mlfallis]

Sleep - We put Kyle to sleep in his crib day 3 as he was not sleeping well in our room so he only knows there for sleeping. The only thing we have a problem with when we put him down is sometimes the change in position moves gas bubbles in his stomach that wakes him up. We now try and make sure we can put him perfectly horizontal in our arms before we put him down. I also put his butt down first and then use both hands to put his head down so I don't have to pull my hand out from under him. HTH

[Jenn (and Bill)]

DD sleeps....um...nowhere? The goal is for her to sleep in the co-sleeper which is right next to me, but not attached to the bed like it could be. But she doesn't last very long in there most of the nights so she ends up between us! Haven't tried the crib yet because frankly, the room isn't clean yet! And it may never be!

Medicine: I've only ever taken Levlen for BCP or the generic version of it. Never had a problem with depression before my period....well, anymore than normal!

[Ericka_Jarett]

sleeping - girls share a bassinet in our room. We will be getting a crib soon for them to share. Easton moved to a crib in our room when he was a little over 3 months (he got too long for his bassinet) then moved the crib to his room at 6 months. When Easton went to his crib I used a sleep positioner I used in hs bassinet and he did great switching to the crib. Him being in the positioner made him feel close and not so free so think that made him sleeping in the crib easier

[SQ2]

DD has slept in her crib, in our bedroom from day 1. We didn't have room for a bassinet.

DD is smiling! :D Oh it's such a joy and one of the most exciting things ever.

[spps]

Jenn - I am totally with you on nevergetting DD into her toom b/c it hasn't been cleaned out. Her room will be what is now our office/guestroom. But all the office stuff needs to move into what had been the little unheated room with the treadmill, which needs to go to make room for the office stuff.... and Dh needs to file all sorts of papers before the office stuff can move... like 3 years worth....

Sammy - Glad to hear you found help. Hang in there till monday.

[ash313]

ya'll are so good about the sleeping in the crib/bassinet. I have to admit DS started sleeping with me b/c I loved it so much. It's the best thing in the world to me but I know I need to get him into his crib. Then a 3 week trip and another 4 day trip created some problems for us too.
as I type this he IS sleeping in his crib...he's been in there about 1/2 an hour. We'll see how long it lasts!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Ash, what's funny for me is that my DH seemed to prefer her in our bed! He told me how much he liked it so I let it go. We still try to put her in the co-sleeper but it's hard to get her to stay asleep in there and I guess it's much easier on us to get her back to sleep when she's between us because we don't always have to get up!

Day four of this dreadful cold and I still can't breathe! What sucks is that this is my last week alone with DD on maternity leave and I haven't been able to enjoy it or do anything. In fact, I'm bonding with her less because I am trying so hard not to get her sick. This bites! Oh well, she's not in college yet!

[ash313]

Had to come back in this morning and tell ya'll - he woke up not TEN minutes after I posted that he was asleep in his crib. He ended up in bed with me till about 1 then I put him in his cradle and he woke up again immediately. Crazy.

Anyway, Here's a photo of my little guy at 2 mos.
http://render1.snapfish.com/render2/is=Yup6aQQ%7C%3Dup6RKKt%3Axxr%3D0-qpDofRt7Pf7mrPfrj7t%3DzrRfDUX%3AeQaQxg%3Dr%3F87KR6 xqpxQQQJxlJQxGo0xv8uOc5xQQQGQeGaJJPQoqpfVtB%3F*KUp 7BHSHqqy7XH6gX0QQoP%7CRup6G0G%7C/of=50,590,394

ETA:does snapfish not work here? It's been forever since I posted a pic.

[Ericka_Jarett]

ash - snapfish doesn't allow hotlinking anymore. try photobucket or flikr

[mobe63]

sleeping-We were very backwards. He started in his pack and play, then to our bed, and he is back in his pack and play. He will be moving to his crib soon. But I am going out of town next weekend and he will probably just sleep in bed with me while I am gone (just 3 nights), so I will wait until after that to move him to his crib. I am hoping that he will be close to sleeping through the night when he goes to his crib, but I really doubt it!

Jenn--I hate colds!

[CarrieCP]

Sleeping - If DS had his way, he would only sleep in our arms. He has never slept in his crib. (He probably thinks it's a playpen, since I only put him in there to be entertained by his mobile.) For the first month or so, he slept swaddled in the co-sleeper, but then we tried sleeping swaddled in the bouncy seat, and that was much better -- he slept for longer stretches. But now he doesn't seem to like that as much, so I really want to get him back in the co-sleeper. I think I'll try putting one of those ramp sleep positioner things under the sheet. At this rate, he'll be ready to transition to the crib by the time he's a teenager :rolleyes:

My parents are coming to visit for the weekend! I can't wait to show off how big my little guy has grown over the past several weeks. I'm bummed that he still has a scratch on his face, because my mom is an excellent photographer and will be taking lots of pictures. I wonder if she'll photoshop it out!

[Megande]

I don't get much time to post from my circus of a life :), but I wanted to drop off this picture of Reed at 2 months.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2095/2086250745_2c235bd7d4.jpg?v=0

Sleep- He does sleep in his crib. He would always start out the night in his crib. When he woke the first time, I would co-sleep with him for the first month of his life. For both of my boys, once they hit one month, they became able to sleep in their cribs alone, and both slept better that way. Once he hit 7 weeks or so (6 weeks after his EDD), he got night sleep organization and is now sleeping for long stretches every night. Thank goodness!!! We had every sleep battle in the world with DS1, so I feel like I have somewhat of a handle on it this time.

[Mom2B-10.07]

Sleeping - Ellie has been in her crib since week 4 and our consistent bedtime routine is really starting to pay off. We now have bedtime down to an hour (that's for bath, bottle, and sticking the paci in her mouth to fall asleep). It used to take over an hour and a half just to get her to fall asleep once she was in the crib. She usually sleeps from 8:30-3:30, and then is back down til between 6 and 7.

[gardenmommy]

Sleeping~ Thatcher sleeps in his crib most of the night, and very well too. Last night he slept from 9pm to 5:45 and then went back to sleep from 6-9 am...I kissed him forever this morning!!

Our big issue is that he seems to need to cry for a few minutes each night and fuss himself to sleep...nothing helps, so we let him cry for a few minutes. But I'm too afraid of putting him in his crib to do it as it might wake up DD in her bed in the same room, so he falls asleep in his bouncy seat downstairs with us and I put him in his crib when we go to bed.

I also don't want to put him in his crib during the day yet, so he sleeps in his boucy or swing...God I can't wait until we move and each kid can have their own room :rolleyes:

[daisysue62]

Holidays~ We had a hard time buying presents for DS since we already have a ton of infant toys and didn't like/already owned most of what we saw in the stores! We got him a new rattle, big soft car with wheels, one of the hammers that makes noise when you hit it, and he's sharing two big gifts with his big sister (bath toy stuff and new tableware which we really needed). Having a hard time finding stocking stuffers for him!

Sleeping~ Ethan started out sleeping in the pack n play in our room, then moved to his car seat in our room for 2 weeks (had a bad cold), and now is in his cradle in our room. We've moved the cradle into the office next door a few times and he's done fine in there, but I'm not ready to move him into the crib because then he'll be sleeping in the same room as or 2.5 year old DD. I'm hoping to get him sleeping better (i.e. fewer night waking) before I move him in there so DD doesn't wake up when he does. The last thing I need is to put two children back to sleep in the middle of the night!

Ethan is Two Months Old today!
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/smileyguy.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/littlebear.jpg

[Mom2B-10.07]

Cute babies Megan and Daisysue!!!

I made a scrapbook for Ellie on Shutterfly for Christmas that has the story of my pregnancy through her first month.

[SQ2]

What cutie pies! :D So exciting that our babies are starting to smile. Isn't it just the best?

How often do you all give your babies baths? We've been doing every 3 days with a sponge bath (hands, face, butt area) every day. DD is loving her full baths so I was thinking, why not do it every day? Just wondering what everyone else does and why. Thanks!

[Megande]

Baths- Reed screams like we are TORTURING him when we give him a bath, so its pretty infrequent. Probably every 4 days or so. It is not fun for anyone :). We still only bath 2.5 year old DS every other day, but mostly because it is a pain for us :).

[daisysue62]

Baths~ We do it almost every day. DD gets a bath every night as part of her bedtime routine so we've just been doing him at the same time. Ethan loves the bath but doesn't care for drying off/getting dressed which is exactly how our DD was.

[mlfallis]

Bath - we are every 3 days. he loves them but his skin is so dry I don't want to increase yet. having a bath and getting his diaper changed are the two tihngs that always make him happy.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

We're at every 4-5 days because of dry skin and I'm bad about remembering when she's due! She hates it at first but is ok once we get some water to warm her up.

[gardenmommy]

Bath~ We are about every 2-3 days...I do it the same days as I do DD. If DD gets extra dirty like she did in the summer then it will be more frequent. I would do baths more often but Thatcher screams like crazy, so I really have to be up to do it. :rolleyes:

[merjmo]

baths: our classes always told us that every day was too often for baths, and that once a week was plenty. That said, we sometimes let her have a submersion "bath" where we just don't use soap to help keep her skin from drying out.

You can use Jojoba oil (inexpensive, I found it at Trader Joe's) either in the water or on your baby's skin after "bath" to help keep dryness at bay. (My doula said that a baby's body temperature goes down when you put oil on them so I should make sure the room is very warm if I do that.)

pictures: cute pictures, everyone. I particularly love the combo outfit, mom2B!

[FSUSammy]

baths - We were every 3-4 days but I'm trying to get in the habit of every other day now. Michael also likes the bath part as long as he doesn't get cold but HATES getting dried.

[jenji]

sleep - Evan slept on me for the first few nights home from the NICU. I was making up for lots of lost cuddle time. then he slept in his pack n play in our bedroom. Once we figured out nursing laying down, he started sleeping next to me in bed. Last week he went back to the pack n play for the first stretch of the night (about 4 hours) then with me after that when he's more restless so he can nurse and calm down. After all the Christmas travel and such we will probably start putting him in his crib at night, but if I had my way I would just let him sleep in bed with me for quite a while longer.

Baths - giving DS his bath is DH's thing. he loves it and has taken total ownership of it. DS usually gets 3 baths a week. his hair gets a little greasy from where we touch his head so much, but other than that he doesn't really get dirty. he's not a huge spitter-upper

[Ericka_Jarett]

baths - usually 2 times a week, unless are going someplace special or they were extremely spitty

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Ok, so lately DD won't stop crying. I won't discuss the several hours that she cried while my DH was getting groceries and I didn't have a moment's peace! But what concerns me is that she will fall asleep pretty easily but then she'll wake up crying. I know this isn't that uncommon....but everytime? No matter where she wakes up or how long she's sleeping. Anything I can do or is it just a phase she has to get over?

[Mandos*Bella]

Baths-We're every 2-3 days. My DS sweats easily, so I try to aim more for every 2 days. He loves his baths/bathtub, but hates getting out and being cold/drying off.

Sleep-B co-sleeps with us. I bought a very expensive wooden co-sleeper to put by my bed, and he hated it. I then purchased a lmesh ocking side bed rail and he sleeps between that and myself. DS sleeps for 4 hours the first stretch, then about 2-3 the last stretch. He just started doing the 4 hour stretch since we've been treating the reflux. Prior to that, he awoke often; I'd say every 2 or so hours.

Reflux -We're treating DS with Zegerid, which seems to be way better for him than the Prevacid we tried. His sleep patterns have gotten better, but we're still not there yet as he only sleeps in the day when he is being held upright against one of our chests.

We also discovered last night that DS cut his first tooth!!This was probably contributing to his fussiness, in addition to the darn reflux and gas pains. I am awaiting a call from the ped. on call as the on-call nurse said absolutely no infant's Tylenol to soothe his teething pain as he is too young; however my pediatrian suggests we administer Tylenol prior to his shots next week. I just want my little buddy to feel better! :(

Christmas Pics - We went to Kiddie Kandids and had B's first pictures taken. They came out so, so good! We got to do 4 poses, including a family picture which was nice. I am so impressed, and just wanted to spread the word about Kiddie Kandids in case anyone was pondering going there. A+!!

Medicine- I have tried many BC pills, you name it! I am currently on Kariva right now.

Special shoutout to Sammy. I am sorry for what you are going through, but so much props to you for seeking help. That's the first step--just know you are so not alone! I come from an anxiety disorder background which can evolve into depression, and that's not fun. I'm here if you ever need someone to talk to!

Happy Holidays, ladies! It's been hard for me to follow along or keep up with my poor little man not feeling too well, but I just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of ya!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Mando's - personally I wouldn't give the Tylenol before his shots, you want to see if he has a reaction to them, giving before wouldn't let you know if he hs one or not. Little surprised the doc would say to give it before. Personally, I would wait though

[FSUSammy]

Mandos - You have to be kidding me that he's cutting his first tooth already! I thought we had awhile to go until that happened!!! I agree with Ericka on the Tylenol before the shots. See if he has a reaction and then immediately give it to him.

Me - Had a nice weekend, emotions under control all weekend but that might have to do with the fact that DH has been home all day with me since Thursday night so I have no time to get overwhelmed. I have my appointment with a therapist tomorrow at 2. I've never gone to a therapist so it'll be interesting. I'm not sure if my 1st pp AF is on her way or what but today I've had some minor spotting, mainly pinkish CM so I don't know, its hard to tell. And of course this has to happen the day that I hope DH and I can have sex for the first time since baby. Gotta love the timing!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

OMG!!! A tooth already? That's crazy!

Sammy, isn't it amazing how different it is when DH is home to help? I feel much better then too, even though he causes me so much stress! Therapy is a good thing! I hope it goes well!

QOTD: Shots! How many did your DC get at their 2 month WBV? Our ped told me last time that DD needs 3 but that some parents do 2 now and do the third a week or two later to avoid a reaction, I guess! But we're going out of town so I'm thinking we should just do them all. Did you guys have this option or did you do them all? (of course I wait till the night before to even think to ask you all! D'oh!)

Big week for us. Tomorrow is our 2 month WBV and then we're going to hit the mall for shopping, a haircut for me (finally!) and most importantly, a photo with Santa!!! Oh, and Therapy tomorrow night! Tuesday is our appt. with Kiddie Kandids. I have a doctor's appointment on Friday. An office Christmas party next Sunday and we have to clean and shop all week because we leave a week from tomorrow to spend two weeks in St. Louis for the holidays! Crazy stuff!

[Peever]

DD is still sleeping! She ate all afternoon and evening and had her last meal at about 8 last night, although she didn't fall asleep until closer to 9, and she slept until 4:30! She might have even slept longer, but my boobs hurt so bad that I snatched her up at the first peep. It's 8am and she's still sleeping and my boobs hurt again so I'm debating about pumping, but I don't know if she'll wake up soon and I'd like to feed her first.

That was much needed after yesterday. DD is weird like DS and won't sleep away from home. She'll sleep in the car sometimes, but the second I try to take her out, she wakes up instantly, even if I stick her seat right in the stroller. She's the lightest sleeper ever. I had to have my mom, bless her heart, sit in the car with her all morning on Friday so I could do some shopping and she could still nap.

We had to go to church yesterday because she was baby Jesus in the church Christmas program so we were busy getting ready yesterday morning and DH got her to sleep about a half hour before we needed to leave. So we had to wake her up and get her in her car seat. She fell asleep for maybe 10 minutes in the car and then maybe 30 minutes at church so she was WAY overtired by the time we got home and it was nearly impossible to get her to sleep for the rest of the day. She did take one decent nap in the afternoon and thankfully DS cooperated as well so I could nap too, but that's about it.

Things are going better now that I'm on my e-diet. She's less gassy and fussy. I'm still a little bummed about it though. DH took DS out to eat last night with our friends and I couldn't go because there's nothing for me to eat. It's a little depressing. DS has had some regression lately, which is not surprising since DD is so colicky and takes so much of my time. He's not sleeping well, which is typical for him, but the resulting behavior sucks and when you add that to a colicky baby and a DH who's out of town all the time, it makes for a crabby mommy. DS has been saying he just loves his Daddy and not me. I know things will get better, but it's hard not to be sad about it.

I'm going back to work in 2.5 weeks and I'm trying not to think about it. I still have a ton of things left to do. I've got a bunch of xmas shopping still to do. I have to wrap all the presents. We still don't have any decorations up. I need to iron all my work clothes and get DD's stuff ready for daycare. Sigh. Life is hard enough already. I don't know how I'm going to manage things when I go back to work!

Baths- I give her a full bath once or twice a week. Both kids have sensitive skin that dries out quickly. If she's tired, she cries, but otherwise she does pretty well.

Sleep- DD either sleeps in her crib or in her chair during the day and in her bassinet by me at night. Her room is on a different level, right next to DS so I won't be putting her in her crib all night until she's consistently sleeping better as both kids are light sleepers. I have a pack n play for when she outgrows the bassinet if I still want her downstairs with me. Now that she's sucking her thumb, she falls asleep on her own more often and puts herself back to sleep more often too.

Jenn- She got 3 shots and I think one of them was a combination shot that had more than one vaccine in it so there was less pokes. She also had an oral vaccine for rotovirus. I just did them all. I'd rather not have to go back to the peds any more than I have to and I didn't want her to be discomforted twice. You do have a busy week! If DD wakes up shortly after she falls asleep it's usually either 1) gas 2) she startled herself. Mostly it's gas. I bicycle her legs and push her knees to her chest ALL THE TIME. Of course she has food issues so she's gassier than the average baby, but I have to do it after every nap and before every feeding otherwise she doesn't eat or sleep well.

Sammy- I've been having a rough time as well. I'm not worried about PPD yet, but it's just been hard. I'm glad you had a good weekend!

Mandos- I can't believe he has a tooth already!! I've been told to give Tylenol a half hour before the shots too.

Carrie- I have one of those sleep positioners in both the bassinet and the crib and they're great. DD likes to sleep on her side so it keeps her there and makes her feel secure.

Better go hop in the shower while DD is still sleeping!

[jenji]

9 weeks, 2 days
We just got back from DS's 2 month WBV. he is 13.45lbs (90th percentile) and 23" (75th percentile) - not bad for a baby who was a month early!!! Dr said he looks great and too keep feeding him like I am.

shots We decided just to do the Hib and Prevnar (Pneumococcal) shots today. We won't be doing the Pediarix (Hep B, IPV and DTaP combo) shot because I want to do the componants individually so I can see if DS has a reaction to anything and also because I don't plan on doing Hep B until he has to have it for school since his chances of exposure are pretty much nill. next time we will get DTaP alone, then Hib, Prevnar and DTaP together at the next visit.

DS is SOOO unhappy (2 hours later) about his shots. poor kid. I've not seen him like this. he fusses, then just acts totally whipped. I think we're going to have a day of just cuddling. I gave him Tylenol prior (after checking with our pharmacist about the dosing) to help with the pain/etc. Dr. said fever isn't really common with the two vaccines we got, so he may not need anymore. I hate that DH is out of town today because I think it's going to be a LONG day!!

[Mandos*Bella]

Shots - I was told by our Ped that DS would get two shots. I am researching immunizations as I am so, so confused. I am scared because my little sister had an allergic reaction to her 4 month shots and ended up in a coma for 3 months. My mom is totally against them, but I am of the mindset that they are very neccesary. I guess I need some help deciding which immunizations, if any, I should avoid. I am just reading through the immunization threads on CC for points of view.

AF finally came back to visit last week; her stay very much long and unwanted. ;)

[spps]

Shots - our ped does prevnar, comvax(hep b + hib) and dpt at 2 months. We are putting hep b off indefinately, and delaying/spacing the others, never doing more than one at a time. DD has had none yet in any case due to an ear infection and cold. We were offered the roto-virus one which i am inclined to decline as well.

[FSUSammy]

AF arrived today. I started spotting yesterday, but very little, just pinkish cm. But today she's here full-on!!! Oh how I did not miss her!!!

[jjsanner]

Hi ladies! Just returned from California for my sister's baby shower. We had a great time. We drove through the night and both kids slept the whole way, thank goodness. My sister made out like a bandit and basically got everything off of her registery. This will be the first girl on both sides so everyone is very excited. And I finally got to buy some pink.

AF arrived two days ago, and OMG it is SO heavy! In fact, I need to call my Ob because I have never bled like this for AF before. It's almost as heavy as when I was in the hospital after delivering DS...is that normal? I went through a heavy tampon in two hours and also soaked a pad. Sorry if TMI, but I guess I am just wondering if I should be concerned?

DS is doing great. I would bet he already weighs 12+ pounds. And his sleeping is fabulous! He usually gos for 7+ hour stretches at night. He is starting to "talk", can fully hold his head up and can put all of his weight on his legs to stand. He is freakishly strong compared to DS #1.

He gets his shots on Dec. 17th and the ped also told me to give him Tylenol before. I think I did that with DS #1 also.

[mlfallis]

Well today DS had his two month appt. He is growing like a weed.

2 months
weight: 13 lbs 9 oz
length: 25.5"
head circ: 8"

Basically 97% for everything expect length which he is above the line on the chart. So I guess I can stop worring about him eating enough, this has been my worry as with breast feeding I can't tell how much he has eaten.

Shots: Let me preface by saying I live in Canada and we have a different schedule for shots. Today he got 2, one for diptheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio and hep B and the other was pevnar. We have the option at 3 months to get menjugate, I haven't decided yet, this one isn't paid by the government so the doctor doesn't force it as much. Honestly it was horrible and he screamed so much, I am so glad Dh went with me. We were told Tylenol after as well, plus they make you stay at the office for 15 minutes after the shot.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Mandos, we go to Kiddie kandids tomorrow so I hope ours turn out OK!

Peever, you know when I was writing to Sammy about the PPD and how it's easier to have a hubby at home, I thought of you. I have such a new respect for single moms or moms with hubbies who travel a lot. I can't imagine dealing with all of that on my own...and the colic too! You get a saint award from me!

Sorry for those of you who had AF back. Dreading that! Can't believe I'm taking a pill which will help bring it back faster (and it's not like I need to control a possible birth right now since we haven't DTD!)

So the shots.....wow....we went and did all three and she cried but it wasn't terrible. She ate, we went to the mall, she got her picture taken with Santa, she fell asleep while we shopped, she woke up and it was time to eat again so I fed her. And then she got kind of fussy but seemed better when we were walking her, rolling her or driving her. Got more fussy when we got home and she started to spit up a little and then she had one monster spit up. She seems to have calmed down since then but man, it had to be half her bottle if not more! I guess I don't know for sure that it's from the shots but I can only assume, right?

Ironically, we had discussed her spitting up issues and she wants us to try the Enfamil AR formula for children who spit up because it's got rice starch in it. We were going to wait since the cans she gave us have to be used and she's only on partial formula but since this afternoon, we think we'll go ahead and give it a try!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Oh, her stats:

2 month visit
11 pounds, four ounces
22.25 inches

So 75% and 50% or so! Don't remember the head size. I thought she was big for her age but she's smaller than Evan and Kyle.....of course, she's a girl! :)

[spps]

Jenn - She is big compared to my DD.

2 month stats:
weight: 9 lb 9 oz, 25%
height: 22 in, between 25-50 %
head: 14 3/4, 25%

[mlfallis]

Wow, quite the variation between boys and girls. Here is Kyle's 8 week photo and he 4 day one, I am still amazed at the difference.

https://www2.cyg.net/~sabercrombie/Images/day4.JPG
https://www2.cyg.net/~sabercrombie/Images/week%208.JPG

[merjmo]

TMs: Would there be any interest in merging this thread with the November moms?

I'm not a TM of November, but we only had two and only one seems to be around anymore. (And she's a bit busy with her new baby!) The reason I ask is that we were talking about it and it seems like a good fit as so many November moms had their babies in October. But if you want your own thread I'm sure we understand!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Melissa, love those pics!

QOTD: Diapers!!! How do you know when to go up a size? DD still fits in size one with room but she's had more leakage lately with some explosive poop! Would going up a size help? Or do I just deal with it? It's not that bad but still!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Pic from yesterday! her 2 month birthday!

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u191/Jennifervp/santa.jpg

[gardenmommy]

merjmo~ The TM's of this thread discussed it a while ago...I'll PM everyone and see what they think.

October mommies...any objections to merging with November mommies? Maybe the more the merrier in terms of getting advice and feedback from fellow mommies?

[mlfallis]

TM (that barelly does anything) here: and I say go for it. With people heading back to work I think we are going to need more help, plus we aren't on quite the posting frenzy we were at the beginning.

[October2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[PinkMartini]

Hey ladies! Glad everyone is doing well :)

Just a quick updated on Taylor. She's doing well. Sleeping is still spotty (I swear, I didn't think any child could sleep less than my DS did - but she does :eek: ) but eating is going great. She's 6wks2dys old right now and I weighed her last Thur and she was 10lbs 1oz. She eats like a champ!

Here's a picture I took last night of Taylor & her 'big' brother :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/PinkMartini/dec-10-2007031.jpg

[mommycal]

poking my head in real quick. Does your child scream during diaper changes? DD will be 7 weeks this week and 9 out of 10 times she cries. I try and nurse her before I change her so that she'll be happy but it doesn't always work. The screaming is getting old so I'm wondering how long this lasts. :o

TIA!

[mommycal]

9 weeks, 2 days
We just got back from DS's 2 month WBV. he is 13.45lbs (90th percentile) and 23" (75th percentile) - not bad for a baby who was a month early!!! Dr said he looks great and too keep feeding him like I am.

shots We decided just to do the Hib and Prevnar (Pneumococcal) shots today. We won't be doing the Pediarix (Hep B, IPV and DTaP combo) shot because I want to do the componants individually so I can see if DS has a reaction to anything and also because I don't plan on doing Hep B until he has to have it for school since his chances of exposure are pretty much nill. next time we will get DTaP alone, then Hib, Prevnar and DTaP together at the next visit.

DS is SOOO unhappy (2 hours later) about his shots. poor kid. I've not seen him like this. he fusses, then just acts totally whipped. I think we're going to have a day of just cuddling. I gave him Tylenol prior (after checking with our pharmacist about the dosing) to help with the pain/etc. Dr. said fever isn't really common with the two vaccines we got, so he may not need anymore. I hate that DH is out of town today because I think it's going to be a LONG day!!


DD has her WBV 2 days after xmas and I might follow your routine. Since she's home w/me and the other kids aren't in school yet, exposure/risk is minimal. BTW, anyone reading the Dr's Sears Vaccine book?

[CarrieCP]

Jenn - I moved up to size 2 diapers well before DS exceeded the weight limit on size ones, and immediately saw a big reduction in leakage and blow-outs. Seems kind of counterintuitive that a looser diaper would provide better protection, but it does.

Re: Merging threads - Sure, the more the merrier.

Us - The good: DS has started laughing and I love it sooooo much. It's awesome that he's becoming more responsive and interacting with us more. The bad: He doesn't go back to sleep after his second feeding at night, which is usually around 4 a.m. I'm usually desperate to go back to sleep then, so it's pretty frustrating. I'm thinking about buying a little travel swing to keep in the bedroom, since swinging usually knocks him out and his regular swing is too big to carry up & down the stairs every day. DH thinks I'm crazy to buy another, but he's not the one getting up at 4! :p

[CarrieCP]

poking my head in real quick. Does your child scream during diaper changes? DD will be 7 weeks this week and 9 out of 10 times she cries. I try and nurse her before I change her so that she'll be happy but it doesn't always work. The screaming is getting old so I'm wondering how long this lasts. :o


Oh yeah, my DS screamed bloody murder during diaper changes, but he suddenly started enjoying them a couple of weeks ago. I didn't change anything about our diaper routine, so I guess he was just going through a phase.

[FSUSammy]

Melissa - Those pics are too cute! What a difference.

Jenn - I know some people move up in size when they notice more blowouts. You might want to try the next size to see if those work out better. And what a cute pic of Natalie and Santa.

Pink - What a cute pic of the two kiddies playing by the Christmas tree.

Merging Threads ~ I'm totally cool with that, definitely the more the merrier!

Screaming during Diaper Change ~ Nope DS never screams unless he's super hungry at the time.

Me - Doing good. I went to therapy yesterday and it went really well. I go back next Monday for another session. She doesn't think I need meds which is good to hear. I'm HATING AF right now. It's pretty heavy and the cramps are bad at times, oh and I have this headache I can't get rid of either, then again I haven't tried taking anything for it. Oops.

[Peever]

I tried to get some xmas shopping done this morning, but DD wakes up the second you take her out of the car so that makes things challenging. She won't fall back asleep after that in her stroller either, even if you cover her up. DS was the same way. They will rarely sleep in the car and won't sleep away from home. My kids are weird.

She's been sleeping from 8-5 the past 2 nights. Before you hate me, DS won't go to bed, wakes up in the middle of the night, and is up by 6:30 so don't think I'm getting a helluvalotta sleep. Not to mention having to get up and change my bra and shirt from leaking and not being able to go back to sleep because my boobs hurt too bad. I think with all I'm going through to bf her, really it's the least she could do. ;) I really need to work on getting her to sleep from 6:30pm-6:30am so it won't be as big of an adjustment when I go back to work. I'm trying to start getting everything ready for that and it sucks. :(

AF- Sorry for everyone who had an unwanted visitor this week! I hope she stays away for a long time for me. I remember my first few pp AFs were heavy and miserable after DS.

Jennifer- DD is freakishly strong compared to DS too. I'm not used to this!

Jenn- I'm not going to lie, it's rough. My kids are both high maintenance. I can handle each of them individually, but when you put the 2 together, it's tough. I am a very patient person so I've always said that god saves the "special" kids for me, but even I don't have the patience I need for this some days. It's sad, but I don't enjoy the infant stage as much as I should and would like to because my kids are not easy babies. I'm just looking forward to DD getting older and me being able to eat everything again. Cute Santa pic!

Merging- Fine by me too. I don't have as much time as I would like to keep this thread updated and I'm going back to work soon.

Diapers/Diaper changes- DD has been in size 2s for a long time. She's a big girl anyway, but she was blowing out of everything and I rarely have leaks in size 2s. DD likes diaper changes.

Pink- So cute! I can't imagine having 2 little babies. Bless your heart!

Carrie- DD went through that phase too, but she's been sleeping much better lately. I think a lot of it was gas and now that I've finally started to narrow down what's bothering her as far as my eating goes, that's helped a lot with that. I still have to bicycle her legs every time she wakes up and again before feedings, make sure she burps after she eats, and I still give her gas drops often. It's a lot of maintenance to keep up with her gas!

Sammy- I'm glad your therapy session went well!

[Mom2B-10.07]

We had Ellie's 2 month WBV today. She is 12lbs 6oz, and 22 inches - such a little porker. Doc says it's good that she is pudgy, as they want babies to be that way until they are 2 years. She handled the shots ok - I can't believe she got 6 sticks. It was horrible. I nursed her as soon as she started to calm down and she was much better after that. She slept in the car and for a while after we got home, and she woke up happy and was ok the rest of the night. I did give her Tylenol right before the shots, and again before bed. I'm hoping she's ok during the night. Last night was her longest stretch ever!!! 8:30-5 without a peep. I fed her at 5 and I know she was up a little after that, but I fell back to sleep and she put herself back to sleep shortly after. I woke up again when DH got out of bed at 7:45 and couldn't believe she was still sleeping- well, I looked at the video monitor and she wasn't sleeping. She had both arms out of the swaddle and was just looking around, and was completely quiet. I have no idea what time she actually woke up at. We have been so lucky lately. I have really noticed a big difference in her demeanor this past week. She is very happy about 90% of the time and no longer is fussy in the evenings.

Jenn - I switched to #2 when she started having a lot of blow-outs. Also, I've never been able to use Huggies with her. She leaked through all of those diapers. I use the Pampers Swaddlers and they rarely leak.

[Mandos*Bella]

I find it funny there is a diaper QOTD today; this morning I was wondering about if I should switch brands or not after having to strip down DS at 4:30 AM when his blowout leaked onto his leg and through his pajamas. We just switched to Huggies size 2 as he is 13 lbs., however I am noticing the area around his legs is loose no matter how snug we tighten the diaper.

I am thinking about trying Pampers again. We used them for a bit, but I just wasn't super excited about them at the time. Maybe they will prevent so many leaks, as DS has had a leak issue this past week or so. :o

I think it's wonderful we have such great sleepers in our group! That's awesome! :cool:

I ordered DS a convertible carseat today. We currently have a Graco SnugRide and DS hates it. Or, he hates the fabric. We got the "Metropolitan" style fabric, and it does not allow for breathability AT ALL. We had to pull over on a busy freeway last week as DS got so overheated, he was dripping with sweat and screaming hysterically. This happens each time we go anywhere; and after doing research it looks like many other parents have had this same experience with this particular style. He also looks so very smooshed in it, and very awkward. The bucket seat doesn't help his reflux issues, either, according to his specialist. So, we ordered a Recaro Como after weeks of research-it was hard to finally commit!

Have a great night, mammas!

[Jenn (and Bill)]

Guess I'm gonna try size 2 diapers. We've been using Huggies because we had leaks with the Pampers but we weren't using Swaddlers, just the regular kind. Guess we'll start with Huggies size 2 and see how it goes!

We've been transitioning to formula and tried a new one yesterday (Enfamil AR for babies who spit up!) and we've had much calmer feedings and a less fussy baby. And less spit up. And when she does spit up, it seems to bother her a lot less than before. Unfortunately, I tried to offer her some fresh BM today after maybe 5-6 formulas, and she didn't like it. Hope that was just a phase but it makes me feel less guilty about weaning from the hated pump!

Went to Kiddie Kandids today and it didn't go well. Of course I timed her feedings so she'd make it through the appt without needing to eat but with the hour delay, she was getting fussy. Then we stopped and tried to give her food and she wasn't interested. So she was a little hungry, a little tired and a lot fussy. They did do everything they could to get us some decent shots but we didn't have much to choose from and not a single smile in the bunch. And then as we were finally leaving the store, she was all smiles and we got some candids with our crappy that I keep in the diaper bag for just those occasions! Oh well. I guess we'll try again when she's sitting up on her own. I certainly didn't have issues with the operation. They went above and beyond and were really patient, despite them being really behind and really crowded!

FWIW, I have nothing against merging threads if that's what everyone wants!

And DD doesn't mind diaper changes. In fact, even if she's fussy when I put her down, she's calm by the end. She's sleeping better now too and gave us at least six hours last night (and 8 hours between feedings!) And she's actually eating less on this new formula. So I feel like I'm meeting my baby all over again!

[daisysue62]

Diapers/Diaper Changes~ We switched to size 2 diapers in the last week since we were having several blowouts. That's a good indication that it's time to move up a size :) I prefer Pampers Swaddlers right now, I think they're cut a little slimmer then Huggies and since I have skinny kids that's a good thing! DS screams during some diaper changes and is happy as a clam for other ones.

Merging~ Sounds fine to me!

Ethan's 2 month WBV yesterday went well. He's up to 11lbs 5oz and 23.25" long. He's in the 30th percentile for head circumference and weight and 70th for height. He really jumped up the scale as far as height goes since he was 19" at birth he grew over 4" in two months! We've got a referral to a plastic surgeon to surgically remove a skin tag on his ear. It has cartilage in it so it can't be tied off. Also confirmed that he has a plugged tear duct in his right eye. The ped just told me to keep massaging it and wiping it clean with a wet washcloth which is what I've been doing. It's really not too bad so I'm hoping it will go away on its own soon. He got 3 shots which made him mad but he got over it quick when I nursed him and was slightly fussier then usual that night but otherwise seems ok. He slept 5 hours for his first stretch last night which was awesome!

We saw Santa this afternoon, here's a picture of both kids on Santa's lap!
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/graceethansanta.jpg

[gardenmommy]

We had Thatchers 2 month WBV today and he is doing great. He is 12 lbs 7 oz, 23 3/4" and is in the 75th % for both height and weight and 50 for head circ. He got 3 shots and was crying so badly when the third one went in blood literally spurted across the table! I could not believe it!:eek: Poor little guy.

Other than that the Dr thinks he is doing really well in the hips department despite being breech and is super strong. He is sleeping like a champ and has started smiling too which is impossible to catch on film so far!

On my side I can't believe 2 months have gone by so far...I'm freaking out that time is flying by and I'm not getting enough time with my little guy and before I know it he will be off to kindergarten! I just adore this newborn stage and don't want it to end (well accept for the sleep deprevation!)

Diapers~ We use cloth, but when we have used disposies we are in size 1...I can't imagine size 2 fitting as size 1's seem enormous, but hey every kid is different right?

Merging~ The November TM contacted me and sounds like they would like to merge and since nobody here has a problem lets do it! I'll try to get around to it soon, but between 2 kids and the holidays and a trip out of town this weekend I'm not making any promises!

[Peever]

This is insane. She must be going through a growth spurt all week or something. I fed her at 3:45 yesterday before we had to leave to pick DS up from daycare. I had woken her up from a nap so she was tired by the time we got home so I put her down for another "nap" at 5pm. She slept all night. I had her in her chair in her room so DS wouldn't wake her up. I got out her monitor for the first time and DH and I tested it out to make sure it wouldn't interfere with DS's and went to sleep. DS woke me up over the monitor at 2am. I waited to see if he was going to go back to sleep (he did) and realized that I had not heard DD yet. So I went upstairs to check on her and she was stirring a bit, but still sleeping. She hadn't eaten since 3:45 the afternoon before! My boobs hurt so I grabbed her anyway and fed her. I worry that she's not eating enough, but she's in the 80th percentile for weight so I guess it's all working out. It's too bad everything else keeps waking me up because I could really use the sleep. I fed her again at 5:30, but she was squirmy and didn't want to eat very much. She didn't poop at all yesterday and her toots are actually starting to stink a bit so that might have something to do with it.

I'd better go pump before my boobs explode.

garden- Poor little guy. :( I'll try to work on the new thread as well. We'll see how the week goes.

Kellie- I hope the skin tag thing goes smoothly. That's always hard to go through with babies. DS's tear duct was really blocked and it was always gross. It magically cleared up a few days before his scheduled surgery to fix it right before his 1st birthday. DD's were blocked at birth too, but they cleared up pretty quickly. Cute picture!

Jenn- I've tried both the huggies regular and supreme and pampers regular and swaddlers and haven't had much for leaks out of any of them in a size 2 and DD has some serious diarrhea going on with her food issues. I think Natalie is about the same size as DD.

Oh, and if any of you are having leaks out the legs, make sure you flare both the inner and outer ruffled part at every change so it contains the poop.

Mandos- DD doesn't mind the snugride, but she does get pretty sweaty in it.

Melanie- They are twins!

[FSUSammy]

Is it normal for your first pp AF to be super heavy? I'm on Day 3 and its still freaking Heavy. I'm a tampon girl (can't stand pads) and have to freaking run out to buy a pack of Supers because the regulars aren't even good enough. Usually regulars are more than enough for me but not this time. Please tell me this is normal and that I won't always be this way. LOL

[October2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[jjsanner]

Sammy, AF has been SUPER heavy and very weird this 1st time PP. I started bleeding on Friday and it was so heavy I went through a super tampon AND a pad in 2 hrs. Stayed that way until Monday when she just went away altogether. Then today she started back and is super heavy again. Not sure whats up????

We drove up to my dads ranch yesterday morning and DH and DS cut down our Christmas tree. It was fun and hopefully will be the start of an annual Christmas tradition. I managed to get the lights on this morning, but of course as soon as I plugged them in the strand at the top is half burnt out. I am so behind with everything Christmas. I still need to get the kiddos picture taken and order holiday cards.... hoping to do that today when DS gets home from school. And I still have a few presents to buy and tons left to wrap. I am feeling very overwhelmed.

[FSUSammy]

jjsanner - Ugh I can't believe you still have AF and its still heavy. I take it it wasn't like that for you with #1?

me - I'm having the BEST afternoon. The photographer we used for DS's newborn photos mailed us the cd with 80 images that we can use however we wanted. So of course I rushed to upload them onto his website so that I can share it with everyone. Feel free to check them out:

http://michaelzullo.com/Pics/index.html

[mobe63]

We were without power for over a day..yuck! I am trying to catch up around here.

Diapers--We are in the Pampers or Huggies size 1-2 (the big box you get at Sam's or BRU) But once I finish the last few I have we are moving up a size

Diapering--he will scream in the middle of the night, because he is hungry and cold. But during the day he laughs while his diaper is being changed.

We have had a horrible past 2 days. His poops were still runny, so we tried switching to Soy formula (per dr's instruction) His cheeks, chin and eys turned pink, so we stoped that. He has mainly had pedilyte the past 2 days. We are back to BFing and I am taking his poopy diapers into the doctor tomorrow so she can see them!

[CarrieCP]

Had our 2 month WBV today, and Jonah is in the 95th percentile for everything! He weighs 14 lbs, 9 oz and is 24 1/2 inches tall. Head circumference is 43 cm. I can't believe I have such a gigantic kid.

He got 4 shots plus the oral Rotavirus vaccine, and boy, he was miserable. He was fussy and a bit hungry to begin with, so the shots made him furious. So we spent the afternoon cuddling in bed. I figured some skin-to-skin contact and lots of nursing and napping would help both of us get over the stressful day. He's much happier now, but every time I lay him on his back for a diaper change, he freaks out. Makes me wonder if he remembers being on his back and undressed when he got the shots.

[October2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[jenji]

I hadn't even thought about using size 2 diapers. We use cloth, so he only wears 2-3 disposables/ week (if we're going to be out for multiple hours). He's been wearing size 1s, but I guess they are a little tight. I just imagined it being a much longer time before we switched to 2s. shows what I know. I've still got so many packages of unopened diapers people gave us. I'll have to find someone to give them to
ETA: As a member of the November due-date threads, I'm all for merging this with November moms.

[FSUSammy]

jenji - You should be able to exchange the packs of unopened diapers for a larger size. Walmart has the best policy and will take back anything without a receipt, of course make sure they carry that brand and package first. Just a tip. I got a bunch of diapers at my shower and have already had to exchange some for larger sizes.

[Jenn (and Bill)]

I agree with Sammy - you should try and exchange them! I had bought a bunch of 1s at Target when they were on sale and got screwed though! Instead of doing an even exchange, I had to pay the difference but if I had known that, i would have gotten a bigger package!

[mommycal]

cracking up. are we the only ones still using newborn size pamper swaddlers? LOL! I guess my little girl is a peanut. ;)

[Peever]

I'm already a mess about going back to work. DD was so charming this morning. She was talking up a storm, laughing, and smiling and I just started crying thinking about how much I'm going to miss hanging out with her. I know she'll have to go to bed as soon as we get home and I'll never get to see her. It will take me a while to get her to bed and by the time I get dinner ready and we eat, it will be time for DS to go to bed too so I won't get to spend much time with him either. Sigh. We're still trying to figure out a way for me to stay home, but I don't know if we'll be able to afford it.

Sammy- My first few periods after DS was born were super heavy and crampy. It will get better after a few months.

Jennifer- I'm trying to finish up my shopping this week and I started wrapping presents last night, but I still have a lot to do. I'm trying to get all my stuff ready to go back to work too and get some things done around the house.

mobe- What are you eating? I'm doing a big e-diet right now and I think it will take about 3 weeks to see the full effects. DD is better now, but I'm still waiting for her poop to return to normal. Once that's better, I'll start adding things in again, one at a time.

Carrie- He is a big boy! I hope he's doing better today.

jenji- Walmart will exchange diapers for a larger size without a receipt. They're about the only major retailer that will do that. Target has a crappy exchange policy now. I just exchanged 2 bags of size 1s because DD outgrew them way faster than I thought she would.

[FSUSammy]

Peever - I hear you on the going back to work thing. I don't know how either of us will get a chance to spend time with DS since we have LONG commutes. But I guess we'll have to make it work.

Me - We started a bedtime routine 2 nights ago and its kicking my a$$! I also think that just by chance DS is going through a growth spurt too because he used to be able to have his last meal of the day be around 8pm and then not eat again until 5-6am the next day but now he's waking up around 2am DEMANDING to eat. He chugs the bottle down within 15 minutes because he's so hungry. Of course that's leaving me in a foul mood because I'm EXHAUSTED. AF is still here but I think she's lightening up a little. Hope she is gone by the weekend though.

[PinkMartini]

cracking up. are we the only ones still using newborn size pamper swaddlers? LOL! I guess my little girl is a peanut. ;)

Nope, I'm still using Huggies Newborn size diapers with Taylor as well ;)

[Ericka_Jarett]

mommycal - We are still in Newborn over here

7 week stats:
Julianna is 8lbs 12oz & 21 1/2" 50 & 25% on regular chart and 95 & 75% on the preemie chart Head is 14 1/2" 25% (reg) and 95% (preemie)

Katelyn is 7lbs 10oz & 20 3/4" 25 & 10% on regular chart and 95 & 50% on the preemie chart. Head is 14 1/4" 25% (reg) and 75% (preemie)

[spps]

Checking in quickly as I have a rare moment with 2 kids napping simultaneously :D

mommycal - we are in size 1, but not moving out of them so quickly,
peever - I am with you on the returning to work thing. I only worked part-time pre-DD, but I am dreading calling my boss to let him know when I will be coming back. Currently thinking Feb 4th (DD will be 4 months), but I would like to take more time.

Me - tomorrow we are going back to the ped to get DD's ears re-checked and then off to my parents for the weekend. I need to go the the dressmaker, buy DS a suit and shoes for my sister's wedding that is in about a month.

[October2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[October2007Mommies]

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