September 2005 Mommies - Our Baby's First Year!!!

[PrincessCrappy]

Thanks so much for your prayers and kind words. This was the first place I wanted to come to when I needed support. I knew my fellow mommy's would understand.

Well, after waiting over an HOUR to be seen, the on-call doc said she finally got around to reading Griffin's chart and it said he didn't need to be seen again, she was just supposed to collect his stool sample :mad: Well of course by the time we got to the doctors the super absorbant diapers had absorbed all the poo! She gave us some collection cups and said to come back when they were full :rolleyes: We did review my diet, specifically looking for diary, seafood, nuts or wheat. We suddenly remembered I had eaten wheat bread this weekend and again the last two mornings. I don't think I've had wheat bread since G's been around, so maybe it could be a reaction to that. However, wheat is in a lot of things so I'm not sure why an allergy would be popping up now. The blood could still be from the tear on his bottom but we're not sure where that came from. The doc was insisting that he must have had a hard bowel movement to make the tear -- but he never has (trust me, I've seen every diaper ;) ). So I guess we're still in the same wait and see position as we were yesterday until we can collect enough poo to be analyzed.

Diane - Alex had a diary allergy, right? How is she doing now -- have you eliminated diary entirely?

[solongtogo]

Carrie- I hope it's nothing serious...poor baby Griff :(

[dbers]

Carrie - Just got back - and Alex indeed has a fissure! I saw it with my own two eyes, and she's never had a hard poop either. That said, we're still going to send in a sample when the fissure heals if I see the blood again. Basically - the doctor said she's gaining weight well, so it's highly unlikely it's anything bad. We *think* she has a dairy/soy sensitivity, but who really knows? I am going right to the hypoallergenic formula though when we start supplementing.

They tried to test the diaper I brought in - but it had been 24 hours, so it was all dried up. It was negative for blood, but apparently that isn't accurate since it was dried.

[philnikki]

Gosh poor babies Griffin and Alex :( Hope it gets better. I actually forgot till now that Ava had a little blood when she was having her constipation issues as a newborn, but it was only once or twice and she is all better now!!

Hope its nothing big for you guys!! You are both in my prayers!

[Brink]

Well, Aimee had the same screaming "I'm in pain" episode today. Same exact thing as the other day. I gave her a bath and she was fine until I put her down on her changing pad to dry her off and then she totally lost it. Screaming at the top of her lungs like I was killing her. Since the last time, I was extremely carefuly during her bath to pay attention to everything. I know there is no way I hurt her, so could she really be screaming like this for nothing??? Maybe something is going on that I'm not seeing.....

Cr8zyforaf - what did you decide on the baptism? Are you taking her?

Blood - princesscrappy/dbers - so sorry to hear about the blood in the poo. We are thinking of you and hoping everything turns out fine. FYI - my nephew had the same thing and it turned out to be a diet issue. Hope that is all your is.

Well, dinner just arrived - must eat before Aimee wakes up.

[PrincessCrappy]

Hey girls - Thanks again for all of your well wishes. I took Griff to a new doctor today. I really wanted a second opinion and I just haven't been very happy with our practice these last few visits. This new doc used to be a part of our current practice but left to start his own place. His reason for leaving is the same one I have for wanting a new place: too many patients and the docs don't have enough time with each one. He told me they see 6 patients an hour and have over 40,000 active patients --- no wonder I felt like we were part of an assembly line! Anyway, he gave Griffin a thorough exam and he thinks (99% sure) that the blood is coming from the fissure on his bottom (Diane - you can send me a bill for your diagnosis ;) ). Griffin luckily had a dirty diaper while we were there so the doc tested it and it was negative for blood. If it were something serious, blood would be present in every diaper. He did prescribe an ointment for his diaper rash and to put on the fissure, if that doesn't help then he said it could still be an allergy and I can do the dairy elimination diet for 2 weeks if I want -- I guess only 1-2% of babies have a dairy allergy. I don't know why, but I just felt a lot better after talking with this new doctor. We're still in the wait and see mode, but at least we haven't seen any blood lately!

Brink - have all of Aimee's screaming episodes been related to her bath or does she do it other times, too?

[wildcat]

I'm so glad all the babies are ok and I hope the fissures heal soon (is that what they do, heal?:confused:)!!

brink - Lauren did the SAME thing tonight. She was really tired before we gave her a bath (we were running about 15 mins behind) and she was fine in the bath (except when I was spraying her down and accidentally hit the faucet handle on the kitchen sink and turned it hotter (the water hit me not her) and I jerked her out of the bathtub so fast that I scared her and then she cried but was fine within 30 secs). Anyway, as soon as we got her on her changing pad, she started almost screaming!! The whole time we lotioned her up and changed her for bed she just screamed bloody murder. It took her a few mins to calm down and latch on for her last feeding, but she did and then laid down in her crib wide awake and went right to sleep. I honestly think it wasn't pain (even though it was her painful cry and not her fussy cry) but just an "I'm overly tired and starving and want my mom and bed" cry. She's done that a few times in the last few weeks.

qotd - Is anyone noticing your DC having a preference for you over your DH? Lauren used to be totally fine with either of us, but in the last week or so, there's been a few times she's gotten fussy when DH is holding her and he hands her off to me and she's totally happy. I don't know if it's a coincidence (i.e. she just wanted a change of view) or not, but DH is a little upset by it. And what's making me upset is knowing she's starting daycare in a few weeks and I'm worrying she'll prefer her daycare woman over me:(. I've seriously been considering not going back, but in some ways I'm looking forward to it. Deep breaths...I'll get through it, right?:rolleyes:

Speaking of which, we had our holiday dinner with my work last night (just our internal audit department and spouses). It was really great to see everyone again as we're a pretty tight group but yet I cried on the way there bc it was at a restaurant near my work and the drive reminded me that I will be driving that direction on Monday and that my special time with my little girl is almost over. My manager is so wonderful though, she asked if there was anything they could do for me on Monday to make the transition easier, and I told her that I would be ok, but that I will be on the phone calling home quite a bit (DH will be home with Lauren) and that I will want to bolt at 4 (my hours are flexible and I'm going to try to work 7-4 which will be hard for this night owl!). Urgh. I can't think about it, I'm going to start crying again:(.

[cr8zyforaf]

[wildcat - Yes, DD prefers me most of the time. Please don't worry about Lauren preferring the daycare providers - this was my worry too. Ashley does love her teachers but her little face just lights up when I come to get her (most of the time...sometimes she seems annoyed because she is having so much fun). I am happy that she seems to be thriving in daycare (and believe me, I was very concerned because for awhile there -no one could touch her except me but we transitioned without a problem) and I am happy to be back at work because I enjoy working but it is hard to be away from her...we are in week three and I still cry (yesterday I got upset because her about my day sheet said she enjoyed sitting between Mrs. Tracy's legs while they sang songs because that is something that only I used to do with her ....I am crying now just thinking about it) but it is getting easier and we fell right into a routine that works for all of us. You are her mommy and she will always love you the most - no matter how much she loves her teachers. I will not lie - dropping her that first few times is going ot be awful - I was so hysterical DH told me to call and quit my job immediately....but that would have not made me or her happy. It will get better, not easy, but easier if that makes sense.


PrincessCrappy - I am so glad to hear that it was nothing too serious (although in my opinion, any time there is blood, it is serious). I am so glad to hear that you found a doctor that listened to you and that you feel comfortable with.

Brink - Ashley does that sometimes - after her bath when I am trying to get her lotioned and dressed she just screams. I just chalk it up to her being exhausted/hungry and not really enjoying me pulling at her. We are getting A Baptized this weekend...thanks for asking.

dbers - glad to hear Alex is OK...wow two little babies with sore bottoms :(


I think Ash is feeling better - she STTN last night - no coughing spells - she was very congested when she did finally get up, but I think we are coming out of the cold hopefully. Her Baptism is this weekend and I am nervous because there will be a ton of people and she sometimes gets flipped out by that. On top of that, I am sure my MIL will be hogging her and basically just driving me mad. I have told my sister and SIL that if I give them the code words (I am thirsty) they are to go get A from MIL - because I am sure she is going to want to hog 'her baby'. I am learning to hate this woman.

[randysmandy]

Brink I agree with Wildcat because Hunter cries EVERYTIME (like he is in pain) we give him a bath. He calms down while in the tub, but once he gets out he cries until 10 min after we dress him. I usually have to give him a bottle or pacifier right after we get him into his clothes. Some babies just don't like baths or to be cold.

Carrie Good news about Griffin :) and Alex

Wildcat It is going to be hard on Monday-I'm not going to lie, but it will get easier every time you go into work. And the best part is when you come home and they start smiling at you because they are happy to see you. Hunter just started doing that this week (at 15 weeks)

cr8zyforaf Have a wonderful baptism

Ice storm here-be careful if you are in New England. Have a great weekend everyone! TGIF!

[PrincessCrappy]

Wildcat - Lauren will ALWAYS prefer you to her teachers. You're her mommy and NO ONE can replace you. I know Monday will be hard, but you guys will get through it...just think of her face lighting up when you go to pick her up at the end of the day! HUGS!

QOTD - I think Griffin prefers me when he gets cranky, too. I think my DH gets flustered when the baby cranks and Griff picks up on it. I think I'm so used to it at this point :rolleyes: that I just continue rocking/bouncing/walking until he's out.

cr8zyforaf - Good luck with the baptism and with your MIL. I can't wait to see pictures. So glad to hear A is feeling better!

Randysmandy - The East sure is getting hit hard with storms! Isn't early for the weather to be this bad already?

We had no more bloody diapers last night and this morning. I never in my life thought I would happily inspect someone's poopy diaper! We're going to a new playgroup this morning. It's for babies born 6-05 through 11-05. I'm excited to have Griffin around other babies his age. Hopefully we like it!

[Cr8nme]

Well I have a lot of formula checks...

I am willing to mail them to anyone. Just PM me to let me know which one you want

Nestle goodstart~ $24 in checks (2@$11, 2@$1)
Similac~$40(8@$5)
Enfamil A.R. Lipil $6.50
Enfamil Gentlelease Lipil $6
Enfamily(any kind) 2@$1 each

[solongtogo]

On that same note I have 2 5 dollar Similac checks..pm if you want or will trade for enfamil

[Brink]

I was gone all day today (8:30 to 5:00) attending a staff meeting and Christmas lunch. I have two more days of working for the next two weeks and then I go back full time. Aimee ate about 8 oz while I was gone and I pumped about the same, so I think it will work out.

Wildcat - good luck on Monday - I'll be right there with you very soon. It's amazing how much Aimee and Lauren are alike in their experiences and our timing.

Screaming - thanks everyone for your comments on Aimee's screaming and baths. It's so nice to know that others are experiencing the same thing (not that I want your babies to scream!). Princesscrappy - it has only happened twice right after her bath. She has another one tomorrow, so we'll see how that goes......

QOTD - It depends on what Aimee is doing. If she is awake and wants to be played with, I think she is better with me. If she is trying to sleep, DH has a way with her and she is much calmer. She did change how she wants to be held by him in the last few weeks and I know that frustrated him because at first he thought she just didn't want him.

Well, off to make dinner and get the house organized for the weekend. A mother's job never ends, does it???????

[AlisonCO]

Holy beautiful family, Cr8nme!!! Seriously, you are in for a world of trouble when Noelle is a teenager:D You and your handsome DH are going to be fighting back the boys!

Brink - My son went thru an "I hate baths" phase and it was awful - I actually only gave him washcloth baths for a few weeks because he was such a screamer in the bath and then he wouldn't settle down for an hour after - he did eventually outgrow it and now could spend an hour in the bath at night!

PC - yeah for no bloody dipes yesterday - hope that continues!

QOTD - I think that Caitlin likes DH better after she has eaten because he is always warm and she loves to snuggle with him - but when she is hungry or overtired, it is all about me!

Happy Weekend Moms - it is cold and snowy here so DH and I are off to make cookies while both kiddos sleep at the same time - I had thought about getting into bed with DH (if you know what I mean;) ) but almost everytime we do, someone wakes up - it is like they know and don't want us to have any fun!

[PrincessCrappy]

cr8nme - You are stunning! Your husband is a hottie, too (I hope that isn't rude to say :o )! And of course, Noelle is a cutie! Great pictures!

[Cr8nme]

Alison~ Thanks!! I thought the pics came out great!!!
I am dreading those teenage days :p

Carrie~ Thank you! I don't mind my husband getting compliments ;)

[dbers]

I'm having so much trouble with Alex's sleeping - getting seriously sleep deprived. She will only sleep swaddles, nursed to sleep, in her bassinette. Then she wakes up every 2-3 hours crying - will only go back to sleep with nursing....!!! :eek:

[randysmandy]

Cr8nme I will take the Nestle Good Start Checks PLEASE! I will send you a PM
You could be a model-what a great looking little family you have.
dbers Sorry to hear about the lack of sleep....I hope things get better

[AndreaMMS]

Really quick post...

I have $5 Similac checks - PM me if you want them!

[Brink]

Dbers - have you tried GripeWater? There have been times when Aimee just can't get settled - not really upset, just fussy and can't get comfy enough to really sleep. We give her GripeWater and it seems to really settle her down and we get much longer sleep out of her. We are to a point where we don't use it much anymore but it really worked for a while there. Just a thought.

[cr8zyforaf]

Dbers - we went through the exact same thing with Ash - try the gripe water (which I had to buy at a natural food store - GNC did not carry it) or WalMart has something - I can't remember the name but it is in the adult section with the upset stomach stuff - it is in a green box and I think it says Natural Remedy...I will check when I get home - made a world of difference with Ash. Does Alex seem gassy? Could she be going through a growth spurt?

Cr8nme - I pm'd you about the Gentlease check. My goodness - you guys are a hot family!! Serioulsy - those pictures are so good - what a wonderful family photo!

AlisonCO - yes, I can relate - the two times DH and I tried for some 'quality time' the baby screamed...and we haven't tried lately because we are both so busy - kind of sad, isn't it?

Brink - glad the pumping/breastfeeding is going well while you are away. I know that can be stressful for breastfeeding moms. And no, our jobs never end. In my next life, I am coming back as a husband....

Wildcat - Thinking of you today. It was probably awful to drop your little one off - but it will get easier with time.

PrincessCrappy - so glad to hear that there is no more blood. How did the playgroup go?

Well, the baptism went GREAT. serioulsy, A was so good and the day was just perfect. MIL backed off and actually gave her back to me at a few points saying that she needed her mommy. It was good to see that she would be fussy with other people but as soon as she was in my arms, she was fine. I will post pictures later - they are still on the camera - both DH and I crashed right after she went down last night and I haven't had time to upload them.

Ashley sang to us last night - it was the cutest thing in the world. I usually hum and sing to her when we are getting dressed or just hanging out. Well, last night, we were getting her dressed after her tubby and she broke out in a hum...she hummed for like a minute - her lips were like she was giving a kiss and she hummed a little tune. When we clapped and kissed her, she hummed some more...she was so pleased with herself. And she woke up and as soon as I picked her up this morning, she started humming again. It broke my heart to drop her this morning - after spending such a good weekend together. And, I have an interview today at 3 - so I won't pick her up until after 5, which is a long day for her. I hope she will be OK.

[wildcat]

Well, I'm at work. It actually wasn't as bad as I had imagined. These first few weeks, I'm only working 2 days a week and DH is staying home with her, so that makes me feel a million times better about leaving. I got her up at 6am and fed her (she was probably wondering what the he** was going on since she doesn't normally get up until 8am!) and she was all smiles and so happy and was talking to me, I'd like to imagine it was her telling me goodbye and that she'd be ok and see me tonight:). Then I changed her, swaddled her, gave her a paci, turned on her mobile and put her back in her crib and she went right back to sleep (lucky daddy!). I was at work at 7:15 (and I'm such a night owl and was up until 12:30am, so that was super hard!!), so I'm outta here at 4:15, she'll be in my arms again by 4:45...only 8.5 more hours!:rolleyes:

So, I have a lot to do today and am going to try to stay off the internet;), I'll catch up tonight!!

[philnikki]

Cr8nme - Holy crap! Your family is gorgeous!!!! Seriously, have you ever considered modeling? I am so super jealous :) lol

wildcat - Welcome to the working moms club :( It's hard, but it is so much easier to leave them on mornings when they are happy. Ava normally isn't an unhappy child, but on those days she is crying when I leave...well there just aren't words to describe how much it hurts to leave her. Anyway -- you will get through it today! You are probably too busy catching up, and the day will fly by!!

So Ava had a great weekend. I swear, I have been blessed by God to have such a well behaved baby. I don't anyone else to feel bad...just wanted to get my happiness over her behavior out there!! I am scared to death to have another baby. There is no way that lightening strikes in the same place twice. Ava rarely fusses (only when she's hungry) She sleeps through the night, and is just generally pleasant and happy all the time. PROUD mommy here!!! I posted some new pics in my journal btw!!

Is anyone's baby trying to sit up yet??? When we hold Ava on her back, she keeps trying to do little sit ups to see what's going on!! I am thinking she will be sitting up on her own soon!! :D

[Cr8nme]

Noelle tries to do the sitting up thing too! She cracks up laughing when she sees her toes now. It's so cute.

Thank you to all the compliments. I will be taking the pics down since my hubby is funny about that.

[Cr8nme]

Also I only have Similac checks left does anyone need them. I have about $40 worth

[randysmandy]

NikkiHunter pulls his back and legs up when he is on his back. He also pulls his head upwards. Looks like our babies will be sitting soon enough. Oh how fast they grow!

He is also almost rolling over--he gets the leg over so he is laying on his side, but can't get his head and arms to go with his legs. TOO CUTE!

[Brink]

Wow, I only have two Mondays left before I go back to work..:( I actually have to work both Tuesday and Wednesday and then I don't have to think about it again until the 3rd.

Cr8zyforaf - congrats on the successful baptism. Glad to hear MIL was decent.

Wildcat - hope your day continues to go well on your first day back at work.

Nikki - I feel the same way about Aimee. She rarely cries (except that after bath thing now) and she STTN and has for a long time. I keep telling my DH we are going to pay with the next one!

Sitting up - Yes, Aimee tries this all the time. I can't wait to get her Bumbo for Christmas so she can sit up all the time.

Well, off to run a couple of errands.....

[philnikki]

Kim - How I missed this quote before, I don't know, but I seriously am thinking about using it in my signature :)

In my next life, I am coming back as a husband....

HAHAHA! ME TOO!!!!!!!

[wildcat]

Ok, so I couldn't stay off of here ALL day!!

cr8nme - omg - you all are just too gorgeous!!! I LOVE your eyes!!

nikki - I feel the exact same way about Lauren...I just know we can't be blessed next time like this and we joke about not having anymore!;)

rolling over and sitting up - Lauren really isn't too interested yet...she hates tummy time on her mat so much, so she mainly gets it laying on me. However, when she is on her mat, it looks like she's starting to try to roll. As far as sitting up, if I put her on my lap, she'll lean forward and sit there for a few seconds before tipping to one side or the other. She's not trying to pull up yet from laying down though. She did just find her legs/feet this weekend, it's so cute to watch her:).

(edited bc I'm completely sleep deprived from my first day back and can't type!hehe)

[cr8zyforaf]

Yes. My DH has it so easy....which is probably my fault. We are really having issues as far as division of labor, etc. He just doesn't get it. He thinks because he is running a business, that excuses him from contributing at home. Yes, I know running a business is hard - but so is taking care of a child on your own, working 40 hours a week, preparing for parties, Christmas shopping, cooking, cleaning, bill paying, taking care of the dog, etc all at the same time. I hate putting my life out there - but I am tired.

QOTD - I've been reading a lot in the healthy sleep habits thread and I just got to thinking...my mom and MIL raised us without all of those books and methods...do you think some of this is overkill and that you should just do what you feel is right for you and the baby? Some of the stuff I am reading (two hour windows, putting a tired baby in the car is bad because you could miss your sleep opportunity, etc) just seems so strict - we turned out fine and my mom or MIL didn't do any of that stuff.

[Cr8nme]

I totally agree about having the best baby. Literally Noelle never cries...not even when she is hungry she will just sit there and suck her fingers until I get to her,lol Usually my husband is holding her and I come in and say I think she is hungry,lol
We also joke about having perfected this the first time around.

[philnikki]

Kim - Yep, I agree. Of course, I have an easy baby, so its hard for me to really get into all of these issues, bc we really aren't having a problem. I know everyone has their own opinion, but I just really am going with what I feel is right for Ava and for our family as far as sleep habits/solids/etc. There is going to be a critic out there for every decision that you make, so its a waste of time trying to do what is "recommended" all the time, as everyone is recommending something different! Anyway--just my two cents!

[PrincessCrappy]

All of you with easy babies should really count your blessings! I feel so bad for Griffin. I think he would have any easy temperment if he only felt better! When his reflux isn't bothering him, he is all smiles and giggles. He has the best laugh ever. However, when he isn't feeling well he is SO cranky and unhappy. It makes me sad for him!

The damn blood reappeared in his diaper this weekend. Our new ped is running some tests on a stool sample we took in on Friday, I'm just waiting to hear the results.

QOTD - I really try to take everything I read with a grain of salt. Each baby is so different, there is no way one book is going to answer it all for everyone. We try to use our books as references, not bibles. For instance, in HSHHC the 2 hour window works perfectly for Griffin but the earlier bedtime spells disaster in our house....right now. Things change on a daily basis.

cr8zyforaf - I'm so glad to hear the baptism was a success. Griffin's is on 1/15 and I haven't even found his outfit yet! I can't wait to see pictures of your big day!

wildcat - I'm sending you good thoughts today. I'm glad it's a little easier than you expected!

Rolling & Sitting - Griff is showing no interest in either. He still hates tummy time, which I'm sure is part of the problem. He's getting a bumbo seat and an exersaucer for Christmas, hopefully they'll help him find some interest in sitting up.

[AlisonCO]

QOTD - I am definetely NOT reading any books by baby sleep "experts" this time - that freakin' Baby Whisperer Lady almost put me into the mental hospital last time:) After having a very high needs/bad sleeping first child and a fairly easy going second child, I have come to realize that no one "expert" or book can ever completely encompass all of the kids out there. I also feel that sometimes those books and "experts" can lure parents into doing things that they might not want to do just because they make their theories seem so easy. Some kids are good sleepers and some just aren't - some 2 year olds are great eaters and some are SO pickly - some babies have a really bad reaction to vaccines, some don't - I mean I could go on and on. Sleep is just one of those things that it talked about alot - really it is usually the first ? people ask me when I tell them that I have a 3 month old. Strangers ask me at the mall how she is sleeping for crying out loud - she is sleeping like a new born freakin' baby people ( that's what I really want to say:D ) I also think that now (compared to when we were babies) there is WAY too much pressure and expectation regarding sleep - I mean we are talking about babies here.

It is so hard, especially with groups like this, not to compare your kid to others, I know I still do it occasionally. BUT, the sooner you try not to compare the easier it will be to go with the flow of YOUR kid. Really each and every one of our kids is totally different. Some of us who have good sleepers, might have kids that have a terrible time with teething. Some of us who have terrible sleepers might have kids who are always good eaters. Some of us with more high needs babies might have early walkers, talkers etc. With every "negative" I can guarantee that there with also be a positive. And with every new stage there will be kids that take to it easily and those who have a more difficult time. Kids just like adults are "wired" differently and experience things differently and react to things differently - and soon you will start to see your little ones distinct and amazing personality emerge and realize that they are unique and cannot fit into any mold. :)

[dbers]

Wow - well said Alison. I will admit I was feeling a bit jealous of all these angelic sleeping babies! Alex is great - but not at night time - ah well, I love her anyway :p

[charmcitygirl]

alison cheers! i totally agree.

[Cr8nme]

Noelle still doesn't sleep through the night and I really don't expect her to since she is breastfed and that digests a lot quicker than formula. She usually wakes up for a snack 2-4 times in the middle of the night. I usually just fall right back to sleep as she sleeps with us and she can nurse lying down.

[cr8zyforaf]

I am having a horrible evening..I had an interview that ran late, sat in traffic for an hour and a half, didn't pick A up from daycare until after 6, cried when I saw she was the last baby there...I really hope this gets easier.

I envy those of you with good babies.

AlisonCO - I laughed outloud when I read your post - thank you!!

that freakin' Baby Whisperer Lady almost put me into the mental hospital last time

This is priceless - I read Babywise and had a nervous breakdown because basically I was doing everything 'wrong' according to the asshat who wrote that book. I also have the baby whisperer book and only half way read it - it will not work for us. If I have to use props and rock my baby to sleep - so be it - anything to get her down at this point. I am probably setting myself up for a hard time down the road, but right now, it is working for us.

[wife&wannabemom]

Hi all,

I haven't been around in awhile so I'm just going to jump in and try to catch up later. I hope everyone is having a good morning - especially you cr8zy!

charmcitygirl- I got a $5 coupon from Similac the other day. The outside said "more coupons to come" so I was holding on to them before I mail them to you, but if I don't get any others by next week, I'll mail it out to you!

hisdaffodil- I know this is super late responding - I will definitely find out some will stuff for you when I get back to work on Jan. 3rd. Did you ever mail the formula? Just asking because I did not receive it.

QOTD- Thanks for your reply Alison, I am a first time mommy but think your comments were so right on. We have a GREAT sleeper, and everyone always says to us, "Just wait", well, we have been waiting since the day he was born and he is still a great sleeper. Patrick is overall an easy, easy baby. But does have reflux so throws up all over everyone's clothes :rolleyes: He sleeps through the night, usually 7:30pm-7:00am, but has his nights like any other 16 week old. But we count our blessings and when he has a cranky day, we thank g@d for our "perfect" baby...everyone's baby is "perfect"!

Rolling/Sitting- Patrick rolled from stomach to back a few times but hasn't since...and he does sit up but falls over almost immediately. He is really good with this neck so really enjoys the exersaucer now!

I only have 2 weeks left before I go back to work. I am going to miss my boy so much...he is still sleeping now and I would be leaving for work! I know some of you wonderful women are already doing it so I know it will be fine, just wish there was some magic that gave us all the ability to stay home if we wanted to or bring our babies to work if we could!

I better go finish my coffee before he wakes up. havea great day!

[Sandie78]

QOTD-I've read some stuff, but I haven't really followed any of it. I just do what works for us. Z is inconsistantly sleeping through the night now (gets up 5-5:30am). It's nice, but it makes the nights when he does get up seem even harder.

Reading this thread makes me think about how blessed I am to live in a country where women have options. I love being a stay-at-home mommy, but I know you gals who work are probably glad you have the option to do that too. I'm certainly not trying to start a work vs. home debate. I'm just expressing that it's great that we have options. :)

[philnikki]

Alison - well said! ITA. For example, Ava is a great sleeper now, but we had horrible issues with consitpation when she was first born. I was not trying to compare Ava to any other babies..just wanted to put it out there how happy I was that Ava was doing so well...didn't mean to get anyone frustrated or start a baby competition or anything :( Did I come across that way?!?!

Sandie It IS nice that we do have options!

[dbers]

nikki - NO, not at all...just my sleep deprived self wishing that Alex would sleep better at night :)

Baby girl had some more blood this morning - but I can see the fissure, so I guess it will take a while to heal.

I could use some positive thoughts ladies - my mom went for her first routine colonoscopy yesterday (she's 61), and they couldn't complete it because there was a "narrowing" or obstruction. The doctor said it could be because she had abdominal surgery (hysterectomy) in the past which can cause adhesions, but he also mentioned the "C" word. I know he was just mentioning all the possibilities, but it's still scary. She's going to have a barium x-ray on Tuesday, and then it will be 2 days before they have the results :(

[Cr8nme]

I am right there with you Nikki...I think that sometimes we need to hear some good things. All over the parenting boards there are threads for picky eating babies and with high needs. There is no board for moms with really great laid back babies. I feel truly blessed that I have a baby who never cries and hasn't been very demanding. I would still love her and treat her the same no matter what. I think for me its when people tell me how good my baby is. This is my first child so I don't have anything to compare it to. I think we should all parade our best assets in our babies.

I overall don't think we should get blasted for praising our babies b/c when we are frustrated or overwhelmed this is a place we can go for that too.

True every baby is different and so is every parent. My child doesn't sleep through the night and I am not envious or jealous of anyone who's child does. This is our thing and I am fine with that.

Maybe it's time for us to look for the positives in our babies and our situation a little more often.

[AlisonCO]

didn't mean to get anyone frustrated or start a baby competition or anything Did I come across that way?!?!


Nikki - We know that you didn't mean anything by what you said - you are happy and proud (as you should be) of Ava. As someone who has been there, it is SO hard to hear that other babies are sleeping 10+ hours when you never get more than 3 hours of sleep KWIM? Sleep is a totally different beast than say rolling or crawling. When someone comes in here and says that their baby is crawling we will all say "wow, cool - way to go" and mean it knowing that our babies will follow shortly - but with sleep, you are tired and frustrated and jealous and have NO idea when you will get more than 3-4 hours of sleep.

I am probably setting myself up for a hard time down the road, but right now, it is working for us.

cr8zyforaf - I wouldn't stress about it too much - sometimes you have to go day by day and not focus too far down the road. I did everything "wrong" with my son (nursed to sleep, rocked etc) and one day around 10 months something changed for him and he started not needing those things as much. It was like he just became developmentally "ready" to sleep better.

dbers - Thinking about you mom - keep us updated OK!

I think that sometimes we need to hear some good things - I think we should all parade our best assets in our babies.


cr8nme - I agree - maybe we should all start trying to come in here occasionally and saying one really good/positive thing about our kids - I'll start:) My 2 year old told me yesterday "Mommy, love you - you pretty:)" Today Caitlin took a 2 hour nap, in her crib with Aidan and I playing bulldozer right outside her door! YEAH!

[hisdaffodil]

I'll go for that. My 2 year old helped me work on remodeling yesterday. I ripped off wallpaper pieces and he picked them up and put them in the trash.

And Jamie is pretty laid back and I am so glad he sleeps about 6 hours a night straight. DS1 was up every 2-3 hours till he was 1!!

[philnikki]

Thanks guys. I just get frustrated sometimes when its like I really can't participate in the conversation bc I am afraid if I make the statement "My baby is great" I will get flack from everyone who is having trouble, so I usually hold back a lot in my posts (not just here, but in the August Mommies too). I really have no intention of making anyone feel bad, but I feel like you can't help but do that if you going to report honestly on your child's current development. I know we have never been like that in this thread, but I just wanted to be sure no one was thinking I was trying to take us down that road of "my baby is good, your baby is bad" type of thing. Trust me, I am waiting for teething to become a disaster or for more consitpation and gassiness when she moves to solids, etc.

As for my positive comment about my baby girl: This morning when I was changing her diaper she looked up at me, smiled this huge toothless smile and then proceeded to grab onto my arm and put it right in her mouth :) I don't know why, but that just made my day :) There is no end to what she will attempt to put in her mouth!

Stats - So I have been thinking about this, and a conversation in my journal with an Aug Mommy got me wondering if maybe we should have a page devoted to our baby's current stats, so we can keep it straight where our babies are with their appointments, etc. I forget so often how the little ones are growing, and thought it might be kind of a nice way to look back at your DC's 2 mo appt. stats and then look at the 4 mo. and see the changes.

Anyway -- let me know and I will set up the page and we can start posting them!! :D

[Cr8nme]

Nikki~ I too feel the same way and often don't as well. Also I never feel I can offer support to some of the issues that some are having

My positive thing for today! This morning as I was getting ready for work I laid Noelle on the bed and went into my walk in closet. I guess when she didn't see me she got upset and started a high pitched wimper. When I came out she gave me the smile/squel ever! That made my day.

[cr8zyforaf]

Sandie78 - yes, it is great that we all have options and can do what works best for our families.

dbers - you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. That stinks that you have to wait for test results. I know how frustrating that is. So sorry about the fissure - that really stinks!

AlisonCO - thanks. I am not stressing too much - she sleeps on her own at night once I get her down - getting her down is the hard part.

philnikki - love the idea about the stats page. And don't worry about p*ssing anyone off with your great baby - we are all happy for you and Ava and please don't hold back - each baby is different but great in their own ways!

Cr8nme - I'll second what I said with Nikki - don't feel bad - we want to hear good things and bad about the babies.

My happy thing - last night after a horrible day, I was undressing A and sitting on the floor...I took her socks off and the dog started licking her feet and she LAUGHED - it was the greatest and the more he licked, the harder she laughed...it made my week.

So - I have a big decision to make. I recently received my security clearance which opens up a whole world of opportunity for me - I've been interviewing and have had some great interviews...however, the cleared jobs are in an area farther away from house and daycare...last night it took me over an hour to get to her daycare. I worked very hard to get my clearance and would hate to not use it...not to mention there is a HUGE raise involved with this career move. I suspect that I could do a flex schedule or perhaps even work shorter days/part time. It just stinks because I waited so long for this (I was in the process long before I got pregnant) and now that I finally got it, I am faced with a very hard decision.

I am off to pick up my DD - I promised her I would pick her up early today since yesterday she was in daycare for so long....

[cr8zyforaf]

Oh and another QOTD - is anyone else an emotional wreck...it seems like since I had her, I cry at the drop of a hat....are my hormones still wacked out???

[solongtogo]

Rolling/sitting up, etc... Court is a whiz at sitting up, and I'm very glad I bought a bumbo. She's really digging it. She's shown no signs of rolling over yet, but she'll do that when she's good and ready to.

Hormones I get very weepy as well...I heard it takes a year to get truely back to normal after birth

[pixiecat]

Hi ladies! Long time no post! All is well here, Lily is just darling and things have been going well - we definitely have our bad moments, but generally she is a happy baby and that makes mommy happy too!

Kim - oh, that is tough! My current philosophy is that we have to continue to be who we are *in addition to* being mommies. I think I am going 1/2 crazy b/c all I do all day is mommy. It is important to keep doing the things we enjoy (or bring us feelings of success) outside of being moms - and try not to feel guilty! Easier said than done, but all of our babies are so well loved & they want happy, successful moms!

qotd - yes, I cry everytime I hear a bad story about a baby or an animal! Also, things have been a bit rough w/ DH lately... I've been really needy. My hair is starting to fall out, so I think that is a sign that my hormones are still going crazy?

solongtogo - Lily is getting her bumbo on Christmas! I can't wait to put her in it, everyone seems to love it!

I hope everyone is having a good week! I'm *almost* done with shopping, yippee!! :p

[Brink]

Whew - what a day. I went to work today to complete a project for my boss and a meeting we have tomorrow. Wow, it gave me a taste of what it is going to be like in 2 wks when I go back. Pumping at work is sure a pain..... Then we had dinner with several of DH's friends over. We had yummy food and Aimee was the perfect host.

Dbers - thoughts are with you and your mom. Good luck.

Cr8zyforaf - If you take the promotion and the further away location and then decide later it isn't for you, can you go back? If so, what is the harm in giving it a try. I work 1 hour from home and it is really for the money. I could work closer to home but would sacrifice $$ and I'm not willing to give that up at this point (is that selfish). DH has been able to stay at home for the last year and work on our house and is staying home in January with Aimee until he goes back to work. We wouldn't have been able to do that if I didn't make the commute. Maybe down the road I will get closer, but for now it is what works for us. While it is important to be their for your DC, you can't forget what makes you feel successful too. For some that is staying home, for others it is finding that right balance between career and family. Good luck in your decision process.

I haven't heard Aimee in a while, I think DH might have gotten her to sleep in the other room. That would be nice.

[philnikki]

Kim - First, thanks for that! It feels nice to know that you guys all don't hate me ;) Secondly, I work an hour away from home. Ava is in daycare near her daddy. If I HAD to get to her, it would only take me 30-40 minutes though driving like a maniac on the interstate (it would take Phil like 5 minutes). I wish I were closer to visit her on my lunch hour, but she is doing very well there. Its also kind of nice bc as much as I hate not being with her, I also appreciate very much the opportunity to be Nikki vs. only Ava's Mommy on a daily basis. I think that now, I feel like I am both and that works for us. There are plenty of days I wish I was a SAHM, but I think if I really did that, and gave up my career entirely, I would be resentful at some point, and I would not want that in my life. So long story short -- I think that you should give it a try too. As with anything in life, we always adjust and you need be Kim too and not just Ashley's mom. How you manage that is up to you, (I know a lot of SAHM's pick up a hobby or a MOMs club to get them out of the house for a bit) but it sounds like taking advantage of this opportunity is what will do it for you. Just my two cents -- good luck!! It IS hard.

Brink - Yeah! for your completed project! Good luck returning to work!!

And yes, I am an emotional nutcase most days. I cry on my way to work after leaving Ava. There are days I cry at lunch bc I will see a baby out and it makes me think of the fact I am not with her. I cry at being stressed out and overwhelmed with the holidays...wow, it looks like I cry a lot :) lol They really aren't totally sad cries...just my way of working out emotions I guess.

[AndreaMMS]

Hi, everyone!

I like the idea of these positive posts. here's mine: Every morning when I take Naomi out of her swaddling blanket she gives me the BIGGEST grin and this look of "Hey, thanks for freeing me, Mom!" It cracks me up every time. And for the last two weeks she has been wanting to STAND! :eek: If I hold her hands she will pull herself up! I'm amazed. She hates tummy time, really can't sit up, and has no interest in rolling over, but the kid wants to stand.

And I can't even believe I'm writing this - I am considering not going back to work full time. Or not at all for a while. We can survive on just Rich's salary if we don't do extras (dinners out, vacations...). It just seems like what I would make at my hourly dayjobs would barely cover the childcare, so what's the point? And like everyone else, I HATE the idea of leaving my baby with strangers. Never EVER thought I'd be considering being a stay at home Mom.

Here are some pics:

I put her in a skirt for the first time yesterday- I love playing dress-up with her!:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc00b3127cce966bcbb7272a00000016108AZOHLFo4ZuK

"What choo talkin' about, Willis?"
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc00b3127cce966bcbb5272800000016108AZOHLFo4ZuK


QOTD- I'm glad I'm not alone. I go through these moments of real highs and some real lows.

AlisonCO- A while back you asked how I was feeling - thanks so much for your concern. I'm fine - the nausea went away the instant she was born!

Diane- I'm thinking about you and your Mom. Hope Alex is letting you get some sleep!

[Brink]

Sleep Habit Question - Aimee has always been a really good sleeper - 7 to 10 hours regular. She was having her last feed around 9:30 and bed by 10:00 and then sleeping until the am. Now she has been staying up until midnight. She still sleeps her 7 to 10 hours, it has just shifted to a much later start time. I feed her and she seems totally out and then 10 minutes later she is awake and laughing. We do this about 4 times before she finally goes out for real at around midnight. Any advice on how to adjust her schedule?

AndreaMMS - Naomi is so cute. Love the skirt!

[BeachBum]

Hi guys. :)
Henry has his 4mo WBV yesterday. He is 15lbs and 261/4inches. They had to measure him 2x because they thought there was no way he got that much taller since his 2mo! :)
We aren't vaxxing, so I didn't have to contend with that. Although he went for an ultrasound on his hip, which came back normal my ped wants to send him for a second opinion. She hears a "click" in his hip and we want to make sure that the ball and socket are fitting properly. I am extremely concerned....


I'm a SAHM, and enjoy it very much. Although at times I wish for some adult conversation I don't miss working at all. I wasn't working when I was pregnant so maybe that has something to do with it? I guess I also just don't feel that my career made me, me ...so I don't feel any sense of loss there.

QOTD: Emotions--yes me too. I never cry at movies or get teary at things, but I'm so much more sensitive now. I am also loosing hair...it really scared me at first, but then I read it was normal. whew!

positive things He is just so much fun! He is so smiley and happy. My favorite thing is when he is BF, and looks me in the eye and smiles (and the boob falls out :D). I just feel so connected.

Henry is also doing the "stand up" demand. He has no desire to do anything in a sitting up position---he always want to stand. It is amazing how strong he is!
It is also so funny when I set him down in one position that I come back and he is in another. So far his greatest feat has been a 90 degree turn while on his tummy. I'm excited for him to start crawling, but also not!

AlisonCO-I find your comments about the Baby Whisperer so amusing.:p I read it, and it just wasn't practical for us either. I will say though, that I did appreciate her thoughts on respecting your baby as a person. It was a good reminder for me.

dbers--You guys are in my thoughts

Andrea-Naomi looks cute in her skirt.

Kim-I couldn't do it. I had an hour commute before and it nearly drove me insane. I felt like it just sucked the life right out of me.

Nikki- I enjoy hearing about Ava (and everyone elses baby). I think we all realize that there are always ups and downs.

Yes. My DH has it so easy....which is probably my fault. We are really having issues as far as division of labor, etc. He just doesn't get it. He thinks because he is running a business, that excuses him from contributing at home. Yes, I know running a business is hard - but so is taking care of a child on your own, working 40 hours a week, preparing for parties, Christmas shopping, cooking, cleaning, bill paying, taking care of the dog, etc all at the same time. I hate putting my life out there - but I am tired.

I don't work but I can relate to the rest of it and it is hard enough. My DH has been so busy lately that I've had to keep H up at night so DH could see him at all. I totally went off on my hubby this weekend and really hurt his feelings. I felt so bad....I was just feeling so overwhelmed that I didn't really consider how he was feeling (the same). We made and decorated sugar cookies together on Sunday night and it was the longest conversation we've had since H was born that didn't involve H or work. It was so nice to reconnect as a couple.

Well I broke down and bought a Bumbo. I hope that ebay seller does me right! ;) I'm looking forward to getting it!

I also bought a Mei Tai baby carrier. Seriously, if you've considered getting one go for it! H has been so happy in it. I wore it to Publix to pick up a few things, and for a while at the mall. I also have been wearing him while I do light chores at home. I thought it would be complicated, but it isn't. If I figured it out the first time, anyone can!

[Cr8nme]

Brink~ Do you have a bedtime routine...For example I put Noelle in the bathtub everyday between 7pm and 7:15pm She take a really warm bath I give her a lotion massage and I get her in nightclothes. She knows after she is dressed it is time for bed...she usually starts to search for the breast,lol Then I feed her for about 20 minutes and she is out! and that is usually around 8 pm. She does wake up around 10:30 for a snack again at 2:30am and the last time around 5:30 am.

I wold say establish a nightime routine that starts a little earlier in the evening and she will get the hint that is is bedtime.

[hisdaffodil]

Yes. My DH has it so easy....which is probably my fault. We are really having issues as far as division of labor, etc. He just doesn't get it. He thinks because he is running a business, that excuses him from contributing at home. Yes, I know running a business is hard - but so is taking care of a child on your own, working 40 hours a week, preparing for parties, Christmas shopping, cooking, cleaning, bill paying, taking care of the dog, etc all at the same time. I hate putting my life out there - but I am tired.


Exactly. And it took us deciding to get divorced before it got fixed. And it's still a work in progress. I think once he finally realized how much it was kiling me, he's gotten a little better. It's just that it took us getting so low that divorce was a daiy discussion before he realized that I was serious about how much of a toll it was taking on me. I know divorce wouldn't have helped much as far as what I'd have to do. AT least I wouldn't have had to deal with all his mess and junk everywhere. But it would have made it easier to bear. There's just something about being over-worked adn stressed out with someone right there who is supposed to help you out that is 10x more frustrating than just being over-worked and stressed out. Like I coudl say to myself, 'Oh well, I need to do it because I'm the only one that is here to do it.' But isntead it was more like "Why am I having to do so much when he's right there snoozing on the couch while I rip my hair out??"

Anywho. :) So far ours has gotten much better, so I hope your situation does as well. Seems to be a matter of getting a man to realize there's a problem to begin with. Men. Geez. ;)

I can't wait till our next WBV!!! They had to put it off further because of holidays and scheduling. He was 4 months yesterday! He's a CHUNK. According to our scale, he's 16lbs! only 10lbs lighter than his older brother!! Admittedly, bro is a shrimp.... but Jamie is a CHUNK.

[cr8zyforaf]

Thanks ladies...I always know where to come for support. I have been offered the job and I expressed my concerns about the commute - it isn't an hour away...it just takes me an hour due to traffic. They assured me that I can work a flex schedule so we will see how it goes. I go in to see them tomorrow and get my formal offer. It may sound horrible, but it is a TON more money and a great opportunity for me. I will figure something out.

pixiecat - my mom said the EXACT same thing to me when I talked to her last night. For some reason, I put all this pressure on myself to be as perfect as I can be - but A is happy and loved - that is what matters.

Brink - I probably couldn't come back - long story but me going for my clearance really upset some people here...

AndreaMMS - I think it is great that you have worked out a plan that will work for your family. That is very exciting! Naomi is adorable - love the little skirt - isn't it fun to play dress up? Glad to hear the nausea went away - I remember how sick you were. Gosh, that seems like eons ago.

Brink- Yikes - no idea what is going on there. I know we used to put A down really late and it was taking forever for her to fall asleep - my problem was I was letting her get overly tired...I don't know what to tell you. Is she napping a lot during the day? Maybe try to keep her up in the late afternoon so she is tired at night?

BeachBum - sorry about the hip. Would the solution require surgery? I will be thinking about you guys. And you are right, DH and I do need to reconnect it is just so busy right now. Can't wait for you to get your bumbo - we ordered one off of ebay and it has been the best $33 I have ever spent. She loves it.

hisdaffodil - I really appreciate you putting your story out there - I feel the same way - at least if I was divorced, I would only have A to take care of - and not have to worry about DH's messes, laundry, etc. We are in a vicious cycle right now and I can't figure out how to stop it - nagging leads to fighting leads to him digging his feet in even farther...it is just so frustrating.

[cr8zyforaf]

Oh yes, and my hair is falling out by the handfulls - which my hairdresser assures me is normal...it is still freaking me out.

[charmcitygirl]

yep, hair's falling out here too. i just got home from the mall--and a haircut! my hairdresser also reassured me that it's normal. but it's falling out a lot!

all holiday shopping is finally done! we (i mean i) scaled back some this year. hubby's family goes really crazy with xmas and i am always trying to get them to tone it down some. now that there's grandkids, i decided now is the time to put my foot down. hoping sil will go along with it as we've discussed this many times before. she's pg and we think any overdoing it should be towards the grand/kids. that said, i'm really hoping the babies get bumbo seats (zoe's always trying to sit) and the fleece pouch i asked for.

i get frustrated with the hubby mostly when we are trying to go somewhere. he never helps getting the babies out the door and it can get really stressful. other than that, he's been much more helpful than i anticipated. also, i think i've mellowed out quite a bit ;)

sahm i'm a sahm but i have a small freelance gig that i do on a monthly basis. it's not much $$ and mostly i do it out of loyalty to a company that i've worked for for about 6 years and they've always treated me well. i definitely do not miss being in an office and prefer to work from home anyways. i loved the office that i worked in but things have changed so much there and it just wouldn't be for me. not to mention, they're in nyc.

lastly, i'll play the bragging game. i love that my kids are so incredibly smiley... i love that zoe is trying desperately to sit up. she's *so* close... i love that they can *almost* hold their own bottles... i especially love that they've been sttn for over a month... i love that jake "talks" to me. we have very fascinating coversations. mostly, i love that they are individuals who can not be compared to anyone else! :)

[philnikki]

Hey guys, I just realized it, but on this day last year I found out I was preggo!!! :) Yeah!! Just wanted to share! Can't beleive its been a year! FLOWN by, although it seemed like forever when I was preggo! :)

[charmcitygirl]

yeah, i was just thinking that i got pregnant the week between xmas & new years last year, though i didn't realize it until the end of january. crazy. um, let's just say that i'm thankful that my kids turned out okay ;)

[cr8zyforaf]

Ah, this time last year I had a negative test and was depressed that yet another month had gone by with no success (we had been trying for over a year)...I didn't get my BFP until Christmas Eve.

Well, I am being offered the job - I go in today to discuss the details of my offer - I expressed my concern over the commute and they assured me that they are very flexible/family friendly....my client also just had a child and the director that I interviewed with has three grown children but worked at this company when they were young and actually went part time. So, after I dazzle them with my abilities...I may ask to go part time or something. I am still sad...I've been at my current job for 5 years and I love my coworkers - the company and the work stinks but I can come and go as a please...which has been great the past few weeks that I've been back.

My positive today- A woke up humming. She sleeps in her bassinet in our room and she hummed for a good 10 minutes before I went and got her. DH and I just lay in bed listening to her.

[wildcat]

My first week of work is over!! I just worked Monday and Wednesday and believe it or not, it feels fabulous to be back!! It was hard leaving DD, but my Dh was taking good care of her. It'll be different when she starts daycare, I'm sure! At least DH is doing the drop off, the harder part!

So funny story really quick. DH brought DD up to my work yesterday for lunch (and to let my coworkers ooh and ahh;)). As they were holding her, she started drooling, so I asked him for the burp rag out of the diaper bag and he just had an "oh sh*t" look on his face and I said, just run out to the car to get it and he just shook his head. He'd left it at home. One of my male coworkers who has 3 boys said "rookie mistake", haha! It was his first trip out of the house with her, so at least he got her there dressed with a hat, bundled with a blanket, etc! Anyway, I took her into an office to feed her real quick before we went to lunch, as she was eating she was pooping. I pulled her off my lap and she had pooped out of her outfit onto my pants!! Thank goodness I was wearing khaki's, so it sorta blended and it wasn't too big, but I didn't want to do the over hour drive home and back. So we went and bought Lauren diapers/wipes and went to lunch. I have a feeling he won't be forgetting the diaper bag again!!

DH and I are off today and tomorrow, so we have 2 more presents to buy and a few errands to run and then I want to make Christmas cookies (you know, the cutouts, frosting, sprinkles, I can't wait!) and some candy.

cr8zyforaf - Congrats on the offer and good luck in making the decision!

hidaffodil - I hope things continue to get better!!

beachbum - sounds like a great WBV!! Yeah for growing babies!

Andrea - Naomi is so adorable! I LOVE playing dress up with my little girl too:).

[pixiecat]

wildcat - congrats on surviving your first "week" at work! I'm so happy that DH can take care of Lauren for now... funny about your pants, I had the same thing happen to me a few days ago. Time to move up to the next size dipes!

BeachBum - great news about Henry's growth! I hope the "click" turns out to be nothing, we're thinking of you guys!

hisdaffodil - having kids is *such* a tough adjustment (w/ DH). I'm glad that you guys are working things out, hopefully DH will give you a hand! Also, can't believe how much your tiny baby has grown! He was so small when he was born & look at him now!

crazy - congrats on the job! I'm sure it will work out great! Also, that is so cute that Ashley hums! Lily doesn't hum, but she coos and makes the cutest squeals! I love how vocal they are! (Check back with me in 10 years on that one!)

Andrea - wow, Naomi is SUCH a pretty girl! And I love her outfit! I said that I wasn't going to buy fancy baby clothes, but I can't resist a good sale at Gymboree / Janie & Jack! Now if I could only get the kid to smile on camera!

BFP - well, I didn't get mine until mid-Jan, so I think I was pretty down last year around this time. Can't believe we've had our babies with us a year now!!

Ugh, girls last night I really lost it. I wish I wasn't so crazy, these hormones are going to be the death of me. I burned the "special" dinner I was making (I'm a notoriously bad cook, but I try!) and I freaked out all over DH. I apologized profusely, but I just didn't know I could be so mad and crazy over nothing. And it had been a great day together too. I just feel so bad. DH seems over it, but it's still bothering me.

Hope everyone has a good day - good luck with your shopping if you still have more to do (like me!)

[cr8zyforaf]

Uggg..Nikki - I just went through that stupid thread about spilled milk. I was tempted to post, but I just can't bring myself to do it. Why do women have to be so mean to each other? I am still raw from the whole I can't breastfeed ordeal (and it seems you are too) and get so sick of having to defend and explain why my baby is FF. Us FF moms get absolutely no slack - most of the books I have are geared towards BF and it seems like I am reminded of what a failure I was every time I turn around. I also had a terrible LC who scared me and made me feel awful and thank god the formula was there because I was dry as a bone and A was dropping weight like mad. I had to go to the doctor 3 times in two weeks to make sure I wasn't starving her.

Anyhoo...don't let those women get you down - you are a great mommy and Ava is happy and loves you. Block all that cr*p out - it isn't worth getting upset over.

I am so excited - I got a message from my friend at 8am - she is in labor - woo hoo!!

[Brink]

Happy almost Christmas everyone! I finished my last work obligation yesterday and now don't officially go back until the 3rd. We are visiting another daycare provider today and think we may switch to her. We'll see.

Beachbum - good luck on the u/s, I hope everything goes well.

Cr8nme - thanks for the advice on the bedtime routine. I think once I go back to work I'll start bathing her in the evenings and that might help. She went to bed again at midnight last night. The only saving grace is that she slept until 9:30 this morning.

cr8zyforaf - Congrats on the job offer - it sounds like it will be great. Good luck to your friend in labor. We just had one of our friends deliver the other day. They had a baby boy named Grant.

Nikki - not sure what happened in the other thread but I second what a terrific mom you are. Fortunately we are able to BF but I would not feel guilty at all about FF. I find that I produce barely enough to keep up with Aimee and it is really frustrating. I know the BF is supposed to be the best but I admit that I really envy the FF moms. I still have pain EVERY time with a feeding and I am so stingy with my pumped milk that we never go anywhere because I don't want to "waste" it on a movie or dinner. I know you would BF if you could, so don't feel guilty for one minute!

[philnikki]

Awwww---I love you guys!!!

Thanks! Its a thread about a new law in Mass. that bars hospitals from handing out the free sample can of formula. I typically have kept quiet about issues between FF v BF alot because in the end I always end up feeling worse about having to FF Ava. I WANTED to BF. But it didn't work out for us. I am still pretty raw over the whole deal, and I just find it frustrating that anytime someone suggests that FF might be ok, they get railed over the coals for it. Anyway - thanks for that. I think I have posted my last post in that thread, as it seems I have said all I could think to say on the subject. I will revert back to my silence in those types of parenting threads.

Thanks again guys! You all are the best!!!

ETA - Good luck to your friend Kim!!!!

[dbers]

Just wanted to send you some love too Nikki - I EBF, but I can understand how you often feel attacked on some of these threads for your decision.

[philnikki]

Thanks Diane -It IS hard. It's my own fault. I shouldn't have jumped in.

[dbers]

I just jumped in too! I'm glad you spoke up - someone had to.

[cr8zyforaf]

Those women over there are downright mean. Why do we have to be so nasty to each other?

[philnikki]

Kim - I have no idea. Do you think I was rude in my statements too though? I hope I wasn't....

Anyway -- we should probabl ystop hijacking this thread :) Feel free to PM me!

I will work on getting the stats page up and running here in a bit. Please feel free to post DC's stats!!! :)

[AndreaMMS]

Nikki- I just read throguh that thread and I understand why you felt attacked.

I feel the same about being judged for FF (and I had a very similar situation - unhelpful nurses, hiring a LC, renting a hospital-grade pump, oatmeal, fenugreek, SNS, and no supply! Naomi was loosing weight so fast in the hospital-under 5 pounds when we were discharged!). I've gotten some really blatant disapproving looks from women when I whip out the foumula. Scr*w 'em. I'm doing what I have to do and my baby is totally healthy. Is this the ideal situation? No, but it is what it is.

I see both sides though. Was I happy to have the free formula, given my situation? You bet. Do I think it's manupulative of the formula companies to offer it? Yes I do. I didn't expect to get free samples - I didn't expect to get anything free from the hospital.

Speaking of nothing being free....I want to say a quick thank GOD for health insurance!! Rich and I went through all of our bills for the pregnancy from the 1st OB visit until discahrge after delivery, and because of all the care I needed due to the hyperemesis, Naomi cost...ready for this?...$104,000!!!!!!:eek: :eek: :eek:

She's worth every penny. ;)

[philnikki]

Andrea - Thanks! :) And she certainly is worth every penny!!! Wow though on that bill!! That's a lot of $$ :eek: Also - I am an auditor for a health insurance company. I will spread the word that we get props every once and awhile ;) lol

[September05Mommies]

Ok guys! The stats page is ready! Please post the following:

Your DC's Weight and Height and the date of the appt. so we know how current they are :)

Anything else you want me to add? Back out? Just let me know!!

~philnikki

[solongtogo]

Those women over there are downright mean. Why do we have to be so nasty to each other?

two words...

boob nazi

[philnikki]

Lisa - I PM'd you :)

[AndreaMMS]

boob nazi

Ok, THAT'S funny!!!!!!!!

[Brink]

I just have to post. We just got back from visiting Santa and Aimee did great. Here she is.

http://images.snapfish.com/345853358%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3243%3E782%3E874%3EWSNRCG %3D32333%3A8573539nu0mrj

[solongtogo]

Ok, THAT'S funny!!!!!!!!


It's true though. I mostly breastfeed my kid, but cannot pump enough to feed her more than one bottle while shes in daycare. Sometimes whether it be by choice or necessary, some women need to formula feed, and the boob nazi's make you feel like shit because you do so.

[wildcat]

Boob nazi...too funny!! When we went to our breastfeeding class when I was pg, I forgot to warn my DH that the LC's (teacher of class) were "breastfeeding nazi's" (my words). On the first break, he gave me this look and I was like, oh crap, forgot to tell you, BF nazi's, don't worry about it. He said, omg, I was wondering, they made it sound like if you couldn't/didn't BF and used formula your baby would die!!

That being said, sorry you had such a hard day on that thread Nikki:(. I read through some of it and got tired of it all. I can see both sides...FF babies are just fine whether it be your choice or bc you had problems BF, but I don't think the hospitals should give formula away to everyone, especially those who are trying to BF and be a marketing tool for the formula companies. This is just one of those topics that everyone gets very sensitive about and unfortunately, there are some mean people out there:rolleyes:. Ava is totally healthy and obviously growing just fine, don't listen to those people;).

Brink - That's too cute!!

That reminds me, I never posted Lauren's Santa pictures from last week (I think!). She did very good, just looked at me the whole time while daddy took her picture and she never even noticed who's lap she was on!
http://www.billyandashlee.com/gallery/albums/wpw-20051216/normal_IMG_1936.jpg

[randysmandy]

I have missed SO much!
I want to just share some things about Hunter:
We are going to see the dr on Jan4th-I can't wait.
He is "talking" more (sometimes with his mouth closed-too funny) He tries to sit forward in his swing now, he is holding things and eating everything he holds! He laughs at us and emotionally responds to everything we do with him. Whether it is laughing or smiling, or looking curious.
We are going to give him sweet potatoes on Christmas. He has been eating cereal for about 1 month now and it is time to bring it to the next level. Hope there are no formula nazi's out there LOL.
He saw Santa yesterday:
http://images.snapfish.com/345858453%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3256%3E2%3A%3B%3E962%3EWS NRCG%3D32333%3A8%3A8858%3Anu0mrj

Nikki I said to DH last night-at this time last year I was preggo and didn't even know it! We found out on New Year's Eve of last year!

Wildcat and Brink the girls are adorable!

I am extremely busy today, sorry I can't post more.

Merry Christmas to ALL!!!! Enjoy your first christmas with your babies!

[philnikki]

wildcat - Thanks for that! Yeah, I see both sides too!!! I just don't know why we can't all just get along! :)

Brink, Wildcat andMandy - Adorable Santa Pics!!!

Here's mine!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf01b3127cce9509fd53da5500000015108CbMmzRq1bQ

And I just got some of my 4 mo pics with Ava back...more in my journal, but here is a teaser...

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c139/philnikki/T91201018_001_008.jpg

[pixiecat]

Just had to post that there is a "September 2006" babies thread! Wow! :eek:

LOVE all of the pics w/ Santa!

[DianeCourt]

October mom here, just jumping in to sympathize with you FFers. I also had a major feeding issue & started to FF @ 3 weeks. I still don't even know what went wrong.....everything seemed to be going well, but we were shocked to find out suddenly that DD wasn't gaining weight AT ALL. She had wet diapers all day long & at least 6 dirty diapers, too, so I was really taken aback. All I know is I got NOTHING when I pumped (tried to mix EBM & formula for two weeks after the crisis started), and as soon as we offered formula, DD started gaining like a champ. I think I'll always mourn the fact that I didn't BF, but all I know now is that I have a happy & healthy baby, which is the most important thing. (I'm also glad I had those two cans of Nestle Good Start I got from my Doctor's office when I needed them!) DH & I are living examples that FFed babies turn out just fine. ;)

MERRY CHRISTMAS, September moms!

[solongtogo]

Here is Court with Santa

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/solongtogo/santa.jpg
santas teeth creep me out

and some 4 mo pics...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/solongtogo/6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/solongtogo/3.jpg

[PrincessCrappy]

Just like some of you can't relate to my fussy baby/no sleeping issues, I can't relate to your FF battles. I guess this shows that we all have our own problems and no one is perfect. The main thing is that we need to remember this is just a message board, nothing more. No one here should be able to make you feel badly or question the way you parent. We all know we're rock star mommies and always do the best we can with what we have!

I hope all of you have a very Merry Christmas. Enjoy your little ones - we only get a 1st Christmas once!

Here a couple of Griff's chrismas photos:
http://mystudio.kiddiekandids.com/scratch/YW7M6YJ3EP4HBQZ3-YSX67.jpg
http://mystudio.kiddiekandids.com/scratch/YW7M6YJ3EP4HBQZ3-N4WMM.jpg
http://mystudio.kiddiekandids.com/scratch/YW7M6YJ3EP4HBQZ3-VBN7C.jpg

[Cr8nme]

carrie, i love his little outfit! Where did you have those taken?

[BeachBum]

Carrie, I can't see your pics...even when I paste the url in directly. :(

Courtney, Ava, Hunter, Lauren and Aimee look great. I don't have Henry's pic online. :(

I know it's silly because Henry has no idea what is going on, but I'm so excited for Christmas!

[dbers]

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO MY FELLOW SEPTEMBER MOMMIES!!!

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc05b3127cce9648e57bbc7900000016108AbMWjNs3cM1

[AlisonCO]

Merry Christmas/Happy Hanukkah to all of you and your families!

Caitlin, Aidan and I hope that you have a wonderful 1st Christmas/Hanukkah with your babies.

:) Alison

ps - awesome pictures everyone!

[solongtogo]

Happy Holidays everyone!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/solongtogo/Christmas.jpg

[AndreaMMS]

Happy, Happy Holidays to all the September '05 Mommies!

From the family who celebrates everything!:p

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc04b3127cce961b123b059e00000036108AZOHLFo4ZuK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc00b3127cce966bcbb3272e00000035108AZOHLFo4ZuK

[philnikki]

Ava wants to wish you all a

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc04b3127cce964ce0bd65a000000006108CbMmzRq1bQ

[pixiecat]

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas & first day of Hanukkah! We had a great time :p Here are a couple of pictures of Lily dressed up and enjoying her new Bumbo:

http://images.snapfish.com/34588668%3B%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3235%3E248%3E85%3B%3EWS NRCG%3D32333%3B34685%3A%3Bnu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/34588668%3B%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3235%3E248%3E85%3B%3EWS NRCG%3D32333%3B34685%3B3nu0mrj

[AndreaMMS]

I've got a $13 Stop and Shop coupon for Enfamil Gentlease up for grabs! PM me if ya want it - it expires Jan. 15th.

[solongtogo]

One year ago today, I found out I was pregnant :D

[wildcat]

I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday! We had a great first Christmas with Lauren and she got a ton of clothes and toys! Here's a few pics:

Late Christmas Eve, sleeping on daddy:
http://www.billyandashlee.com/gallery/albums/wpw-20051226/normal_IMG_2120.jpg

Lauren with her great-grandma on Christmas Day (to show off her Christmas dress!):
http://www.billyandashlee.com/gallery/albums/wpw-20051226/normal_IMG_2129.jpg

[cr8zyforaf]

hope everyone had a great holiday. The pictures are so cute.

solongtogo/B] - wow - that is a lot of stuff. Ashley also made out - I am going to have to have another room built on the house to hold all of the toys and clothes.

[B]Beachbum - I am like you- I know Ash has no idea but I could barely sleep on Christmas Eve because I was so excited.

AndreaMMS - great pictures! I love the expression on her face in both pictures!

philnikki - Ava looks so happy - is that a Christmas gift she is sitting in?

pixiecat - It looks like the bumbo is a hit with Lily....Ash sat in hers almost all day on Chirstmas.

wildcat - Lauren is adorable in her Christmas dress!

I found out on Christmas Eve last year that I was pregnant....Cr8nme was one of the first people to visit my journal on the other site to congratulate me.

We had a good Christmas, however Ashley is no longer sleeping. She was sleeping 8-9 hours at night, now, 5 if I am lucky..I don't know what is going on. She is fussier than usual - I had to hold her for all of her naps this weekend and once she gets up at 3, I put her in bed with me....which I am sure is a mistake. I am so frustrated now with the sleep issues I just don't know what to do.

[AndreaMMS]

cr8zyforaf- geez I misread what you wrote - I though you meant you just found out you were pregnant again THIS Christmas Eve:eek: ;)

Thanks for the compliment on Naomi's pictures.:)

I'm sorry that you're having sleep issues with Ashley, I wish I had some advice for you. I've gotta ask, though- how the heck did you get her to sleep 8-9 hours in the first place???? Naomi has NEVER gone longer than 4 or 5 hours...

[cr8zyforaf]

AndreaMMS - Oh jesus no....if I got a BFP this Christmas I would have cried. I told my DH I can't imagine going through all of this again any time soon.

The good sleeping started when we put her in daycare - I think she was so exhausted (she really wasn't napping at daycare - only 3-4 catnaps a day) from being stimulated all day she was just coming home and passing out. Although she started waking earlier the last few weeks - because she is now getting used to daycare and has actually had a few 1-2 hour naps here and there. The first two weeks in daycare - she would fall asleep on her own around 8 and I would have to wake her at 6 to get fed, dressed, and out the door.

I've had her since Thursday night - maybe I am not stimulating her enough. Also, she naps longer with me because I hold her or sleep with her. I am very curious to see if she sleeps good tonight.

[AlisonCO]

My SIL's are here so I only have a minute...

CUTE pictures solongtogo, wildcat, pixiecat, Andrea and nikki - such pretty girls!!!

Sleep - Cailtin is sleeping like complete CRAP too so it must be a developmental thing, cr8zyforaf. I am pretty sure that I have read that something happens around 4 months that throws it off for a bit - maybe a transition to a different sleep cycle? Also if they are on the verge of rolling, that could screw it up too. She is napping great though - yesterday she had a 2 hour, a 1.5 hour and a 45 minute nap all by herself in the bassinet. I KNOW she is not hungry because when she wakes I almost always offer the breast and last night she refused it twice - she was down at 8:30pm and up at 11:30, 12:30, 3:30 and 7:30 BLAH.

Hope that you all are doing well and staying healthy!

[randysmandy]

The holidays were so very different having Hunter. They were more enjoyable!! He unwrapped some of his gifts if we put the wrapping paper in his hand. Visiting definitly screwed up his sleepign habits. I agree with Alison when it comes to not sleeping. Since Hunter has begun to try and roll he wakes up at least 3 times a night. I have to put his pacifier back in, but he is on his side trying to roll.
solongtogo I can't believe how many toys your little one got!
Hunter received a few toys and a lot of clothes...that kid is never going to go cold!
Nikki Wildcat and Andrea The girls look so cute!
I'm glad everyone enjoyed their holidays!!!

[cr8zyforaf]

You ladies are great - the rolling might be what it is - she wakes up and is thrashing her head back and forth...she is still sleeping in the carseat (awful, I know) so I may try her in the crib tonight...how much worse could it get - I've also been up every few hours lately.

[solongtogo]

Just got back from Courtneys 4 month wellness exam and vaccinations.

She's 12 lbs 5 oz, 23 3/4 inches, and head is 41 cm (hahah big head!). She's been super cranky this week, and the doc felt little hard bumps in her gums...no teeth yet, but at least theres an explanation for the drool, congestion, and fussiness. She did ok at the vaccinations, I did ok too :)

[dbers]

cr8zy - I know you posted in my other thread too - it does seem to be a normal 4 month phenomenon! Alex is actually doing better - she slept in her crib last night from 12am - 7am! It was a screaming session from about 8:30pm until then, but overall a successful night!

[charmcitygirl]

just a quick post... babies just got up from their nap.

j&z had a great holiday... lots of toys, few clothes (thank god, they have enough already), and feeding supplies. best gift of all... the bumbo seats! love love love them.

zoe got constipated over the weekend and started getting fussy because of it yesterday. she had a good poop this am and seems so much better. the big news is that jake rolled over (front to back)! he did it friday but the hubby claims he pushed him a bit. then he did it again saturday am, then on sunday afternoon he rolled over twice. i'm looking at him right now and he's on his side going from back to front and looks really close to rolling. it's very exciting.

both babies are still sleeping really well despite holiday craziness.

hope everyone had a great christmas and/or hanukkah! love everyone's pictures.

[AndreaMMS]

Ok, I can now join Diane & Cra8zyforAF in zombie-land...

Last night we put Naomi down at 8:30PM - she was up at 9:30, 11:30, 1, 2:30 and 3:45. I am seriously about to fall over....:confused: :mad: :(

[wildcat]

I'm so sorry about the babies having problems sleeping:(. Hopefully it's just temporary or something left over from the stress of the holidays or something and will pass soon!!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE all the pictures!! Our kids are just too cute, aren't they?:D

I worked yesterday and then again today and then I'm off until Tuesday!!woohoo! My parents are coming up this weekend and are going to watch Lauren so we can do something with our friends for New Years Eve. I'm so glad they are willing to do that, and it really makes me wish that we lived in the same city as our family (a majority of my family (i.e. parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles, etc) live 3 hours from us, close enough that it's easy to get back and forth but not the same as being in the same city). It would be so nice to be able for DH and I to have some more "date nights" than about the once a month that we get when my parents are here (we go there 1x a month and they come here 1x a month so they never go longer than 2 weeks w/o seeing her), but at least we get that! Over Christmas, my grandma was saying how they wished we lived there as she would watch her fulltime for us. I know she would too, she's always watched the grandkids. My mom is always talking about quitting and coming up here Monday - Friday to watch her...unfortunately, we couldn't afford my mom's salary! So, Lauren starts daycare on Tuesday, totally not looking forward to it:(.

[wildcat]

(a reminder to myself to update this later!)

Lauren's Stats:
Momma: wildcat
DC: Lauren
Weight: 10lbs 12oz
Height: 22"
Current as of: 11/28/05 (8 weeks)

[cr8zyforaf]

I am so glad others are having sleep issues - not happy that you guys are not getting sleep just happy that I am not alone. I feel like I am really setting myself up here - she woke up a few times last night and finally I just put her in bed with me....and then she slept. So, she is almost 4 months and totally unable to pacify herself back to sleep - what a nightmare. Also, she was starving at 3:30 when she woke up for the 3rd time - she sucked 6 ounces down like it was nothing. Should I try some cereal in her formula? For those of you putting cereal in the formula, how did you decided to start?

Should I just throw her in the crib and let her cry? I feel like I need to start some sleep training, but part of me still thinks she is too young. I remember someone mentioning that their first child was like this and then at 6 months something changed....

Well, here is a picture of her on Christmas Eve in her Reindeer suit:
http://images.snapfish.com/34589%3B2%3C7%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3238%3E577%3E3%3A8%3E WSNRCG%3D32333%3B%3B839%3C4%3Bnu0mrj

[AndreaMMS]

Oh, yeah, stats...

Naomi's stats

Mommy- AndreaMMS
Baby- Naomi Soleil
Weight- 9 pounds, 10 oz
Height-21 3/4"
Current as of 11/22/05 (8 weeks)

[dbers]

Just got back from Alex's 4 month appointment! She handled the shots really well this time.

Her stats:

Me: dbers (Diane)
DC: Alexandra Claire
Weight: 14 lb 9 oz
Height: 24 1/2 "
Current as of: 12/28/04

Her percentages are hilarious! Height - 50th percentile, head - 25th percentile, weight 90th percentile :eek: The doctor said that she doesn't usually tell parents unless they ask because it freaks them out - but that everything was fine. That her head was always small, but is growing consistently which is what matters. As for the weight - what can I say - my breastmilk works!

[PrincessCrappy]

HI everyone! What beautiful pictures of all of the holiday excitement. I swear, the kids are getting cuter everyday! I'm not sure why mine aren't showing up, I'll have to try to fix the links.

We had a great Christmas. Griffin was a super star and handled all of the attention really well. He got a ton of clothes, toys and books. It was great. We are uploading some of the photos now, so I'll be back later to post more.

Sorry about the new sleep troubles. I'm baffled because G sleeps so much better when we're away from home. I'm desperately trying to figure out what it is that makes the difference so we can do it at home too!

I'm doing laundry now from our visit to my mom's, so I can repack for our visit to DH's family. We leave tomorrow for another quick trip to the east coast...I hope we don't freeze!

[philnikki]

Hey guys! Keep the stats coming!

Kim - Yes, he Jumperoo was a present from her G&G on Phil's side!

Thanks for the compliments! I thought that it was a cute pic myself ;)

Ava is having sleep issues too! She has always been a good sleeper, and now all of a sudden she is waking up around 2-3am. She usually is down around 7:30 and wakes up anywhere from 5:30am-6:00am (which is perfect for us when I am working). I think it might have more to do with being sick.

[cr8zyforaf]

OK - I broke down and gave Ashley some rice cereal last night in her bottle and she slept all night last night - almost 10 hours and woke up happy instead of screaching from being so hungry. I think the formula was no longer keeping her satisfied.

QOTD - is anyone else using cereal this early? I have some concerns but I really think the formula wasn't cutting it anymore - she was sucking down 6-8 ounces every 2.5-3 hours and wanting more....that seems a bit much to me. Plus, when she was waking at 3 AM, she was eating 6-8 ounces like it was nothing - it was taking her like 10 minutes to suck it down and then she would end up getting sick because she was eating so fast. Maybe she is going through a growth spurt.

Nikki - is Ava eating when she is getting up - that is exactly how our issues started and I would fight with her to get her back to sleep when really she was hungry.

[philnikki]

Kim - Nope, she has been waking herself up with her coughing mainly. Then she cries a bit and I pull her into bed with me and we usually sleep like that for a few more hours. Mommy doesn't mind -- I miss her in bed with me!! She normally doesn't cry for a bottle until after I have her diaper changed and her outfit changed for the day


QOTD - Ava turned 4 mos last week and our ped told us that as long as she is over her tongue thrust reflex, that she was perfectly able to start rice cereal. Ava was eating over 30 ounces and he didn't seem phased by this at all (like you, Kim she was eating 6-8 ounces at a time every 3 hrs or so). He said that main source of nutrition right now is the formula and just to watch how much rice cereal we give her bc we don't want to cut out formula too much out of her diet. HTH!

[dbers]

QOTD: Alex had her 4 month yesterday, and we were also told we could start with rice cereal. However, because of our family history of food allergies, she suggested we wait until 6 months.

[charmcitygirl]

well both jake and zoe are sick. jake woke up yesterday all stuffy. last night i let him sleep in the cosleeper with a humidifier next to him and zoe slept in her crib (first night they slept apart). jake woke up at 1:30am and was really stuffy. he had a few ounces of formula and i let him sleep with me the rest of the night. i woke him at 4am to clean his nose out. poor thing was so stuffed up. i couldn't sleep listening to him. while i was up with him, i could hear that zoe was also stuffy and coughing some. she didn't really wake up so i left her alone. this morning, they were both really congested and sneezing but acting fine and no fevers. not looking forward to tonight... i'm going to put them in their respective cribs and maybe i'll bring a mattress in there so i can be close by.

i'm sure they got this from my bil who is also sick. boo to him.

[cr8zyforaf]

Nikki - yes, that helps. I give her one tablespoon of rice cereal with four ounces of formula in the AM and PM...so far, so good. My friend said that she would probably gag trying to get it down, but she had no trouble and took it down like a champ..that is my girl - a food lover like her mommy!

charmcitygirl - I can empathize - when A was sick (sounds like the same thing - stuff and congested, no fever and acting/eating fine) and stuffy it was AWFUL. I will tell you, I was told by my doctor to use Ayr Saline (they are 100% natural) drops in her nose to clean her out and it works (I did one squirt every time she needed to be cleaned out) - it made her sneeze and all the goop came out with the sneeze. I also used Q-tips to get the boogies because that stupid blue aspirator never worked for me. Hope Jake and Zoe feel better soon!

[charmcitygirl]

thanks, cr8zyforaf.

[hisdaffodil]

Just a fly by post cuz my kiddos are all ill too. Doesn't sound like the same thing though. DH got it first, then my oldest, now the baby. Fevers of 102, coughing, vomiting, cranky, no appetite. Lovely. I did all I could to keep Jamie from catching it from the others, but it didn't work. I'm hoping it'll be shorter lived in him though. Since DH started sniffling, I've been taking Airborne 2x a day (has 1,670% your Vit C daily requirement!). I got a fever one night, coughed a touch, and feel fine today. I'm chalking it up to the Airborne. I'm hoping he's getting enough through my breastmilk to help him out too.

Smething else that's helped him with his congestion and breathing is to have him sitting in his bouncy while I'm in the shower. I use the Shower Soothers or a Vapor Menthol type body wash (like the baby vapor bath), and he gets it second hand so it's not too strong. Seems to help loosen his nose up so I can suck it out.

I hate the blue things too. I can't get much out and once it even gave him a bloody nose!!

I'll try to get pics up eventually.

[randysmandy]

QOTD Hunter started eating rice cereal at 2 months. We gave it to him with the spoon so that he could get used to eating from a spoon when it came time to eat veggies/fruit. I only gave him cereal at night-about 1 formula scoop full (very loose). We thickened it up and gave him about 1.5 scoops at 3 months. Now at 4 months he eats Sweet Potatoes and Carrots. We are going to give him fruit today. He LOVES his food, but makes a little face every now and then. I have this theory about food allergies. My aunt breast fed for 1.5 years. My cousin is now allergic to: soy bean oil, nuts, peanutbutter, and eggs. The poor child cannot eat anything. My older cousin on the other hand has NO allergies. Could it be hereditary or based on how early you gives your baby solids..I really don't know.

SleepingHe was sleeping from 8-5, but now he is waking every 2-3 hours. I put his binky bak in and he falls alseep. I don't feed him til the am, WELL except last night he was starving at 2:30 because he went to bed an hour early. I too am a zomby today.He has to be teething!! I'm glad to hear all our babies are doing the same thing lol.

Cr8zy Hunter wore the same outfit!!

My heart goes out to all the sick babies. DH is sick and I am praying Hunter stays healthy.

Hunter's First Christmas:
http://images.snapfish.com/3458%3A%3B23%3A%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3256%3E2%3A%3B%3E96 2%3EWSNRCG%3D32333%3B%3B549%3A4%3Bnu0mrj

[AndreaMMS]

Good QOTD! I've been wondering the same thing. My mither-in-law swears that if I put a bit of cereal in Naomi's bottle at night that she'll sleep longer. My pediatrician say's that's just a myth, but I wonder...

randy'smandy- Hunter is SO cute!

And in case anyone is looking for a good sling, I just bought one that Naomi and I LOVE. It's a traditional Chinese carrier called a Mei Tai (ppronounced may- ty). Here's a pic:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc11b3127cce963acebc574400000015108AZOHLFo4ZuK

Naomi hated the ring sling I had, and the Baby Bjorn hurt my back - this one is great!

[AlisonCO]

Andrea - I am getting a MeiTai this week and I am so excited - I have heard that they are pretty easy to use and they are SO pretty!

Randysmandy - Cute cute!!! Love the little hat!

QOTD - Definitely no solids here until at least 6 months - I am trusting that the new rec of 6 months from the AAP was thoroughly researched and must have had significant support and research to back it up. Would I love C to sleep longer...YES. But the fact that there is an increase in allergies and obesity is not worth it for me. Luckily DH and I come from families that are athletic and slim with no allergies so I am going to try and not mess with good genetics;)

Caitlin is still Dr. Jeckel and Mr. Hyde with her sleeping - BLAH! 2 night ago she was back to going down easily at 8ish and waking up once to eat, but last night she was a bear to put down and was up 3 times and then up for an hour around 5:30. We have houseguests this week so I am wondering if all of the extra stimulation is contributing. Luckliy she is napping like a champ - 3 times a day for 1-2 hours with me just putting her and her paci in the bassinet awake. I am sure that next week she will change again.

Cailtin really wants to sit up and can do it for a minute with a firm pillow behind her - I love that stage when they can sit up unassisted but can't move because you can put a bunch of toys around them and they seem so happy to be up, playing and looking around. Actually I pretty much like any stage except for the under 6 months one - I love my kids, but really don't like the baby stage.

In other news, one year ago today I got my very surprise BFP! I was so shocked that I completely went into denial - but I tested again and told my DH one year ago tomorrow night - New Years Eve!

Hope that you all have a fun and safe weekend!

[wildcat]

It was a year ago today that Lauren was conceived!;)

[solongtogo]

Love all the new baby pics!

QOTD No solids here until at least 6 months as well. The recommendation from the AAP is there for a reason. The pedi showed me how to tell when she'd be ready to start the other day (lifting her into a sitting position by her hands and if her head stays in line, then it's ok) but she's not ready. She's still pretty small too and doing just fine on what she's eating now.

[wildcat]

oops, forgot the qotd! No solids here until 6 months either, same reasons. We have Laurens 4 month WBV in a month, we'll see what the ped says, but it would take a really good argument to get me to start earlier.

[Cr8nme]

QOTD~ No solids here either. Noelle seems satisfied with just ebing breastfed and Dha nd I have really bad allergies. Studies show that the earlier you introduce certain food the more likely the child could be allergic to them. So for all the same reasons I will be holding off. Also the ped says that she should be interested in reaching out and be able to put food to her mouth. So I will wait for some more clues that she is ready.


I have another question for moms that give their babies bottles. Noelle has to start daycare on the
11th of January...how much milk should I be sending with her. I really don't know how much she takes in??

[Brink]

QOTD - We are also waiting until 6 months based on the ped advice.

Aimee was conceived a year ago tomorrow night - New Year's Eve. Funny conception story - we were trying to get into our cabin through really thick snow. We had been digging in the snow and shoveling all day and got into our place after midnight. I knew I had ovulated and was taking clomid and didn't want to miss the chance. So, absolutely exhausted at like 2am on New Year's Eve I told my DH it was time. He said "you've got to be kidding me", and a few minutes later Aimee was made. Not that she will ever hear the story, but it's funny to us.

We are going to visit one of our friends that just had a baby about a week ago. Then we are heading back to the cabin, we were teasing that maybe we'll make number 2 on New Year's (just kidding).

Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year's.

[BeachBum]

I have another question for moms that give their babies bottles. Noelle has to start daycare on the
11th of January...how much milk should I be sending with her. I really don't know how much she takes in??


You might want to check Kellymom.com. She has that info on her site.

Funny conception story - we were trying to get into our cabin through really thick snow. We had been digging in the snow and shoveling all day and got into our place after midnight. I knew I had ovulated and was taking clomid and didn't want to miss the chance. So, absolutely exhausted at like 2am on New Year's Eve I told my DH it was time. He said "you've got to be kidding me", and a few minutes later Aimee was made. Not that she will ever hear the story, but it's funny to us.


That is funny!

Things are good here...family visiting until tomorrow. H's sleep has been screwy since he's missed his naps and has gone to bed so much later. He has been so, so sweet during all the chaos though. I'm really surprised.
My SIL has a 15 mo old. It is so amazing to think that H will be like that next christmas. We don't really have friends with kids so I haven't been around toddlers. Wow! talk about a handful!

Mei Tai--Yeah, it rocks. H hated the pouch, but loves the MT. I'm glad! I can even bake with him in there.

Solids--No Way! In a lot of ways I think what's the rush? We will be excited when the time comes, but until then it just seems like an extra hassle and extra mess.
We have also decided to forgo rice cereal completely. I just haven't found any compelling argument to do it. It just seems like it doesn't have much in the way of nutritional value. I know several people who didn't do "puree foods" at all. They thought if baby couldn't chew and pick things up then they weren't ready. Interesting I thought.

[wife&wannabemom]

Hi all,

Today is my 30th birthday and DH came in with DS to wake me up this morning with a big smile and a cute card....life is good.

Patrick had his 4 month check up yesterday and is 14 lbs, 14 oz (50%) and 25 1/2 inches long (75%) but has a tiny head (16%)....but the ped was very happy with his growth. He took his shots like a champ and slept it off...he's happy today.

QOTD- No solids here until 6 months as well. Patrick is completely satisfied on bottles only and STTN. The ped said to wait so that is what we'll do. The ped did say we can give a spoonful of rice cereal before his nighttime bottle to help with his spitting up from the acid reflux but we haven't tried it yet. We figure, why mess with a good thing. He's a GREAT sleeper and a great eater so we'll stay put.

Sorry I've been MIA...went away for Xmas and it was awesome!!! I start work on Jan. 3rd so starting to get nervous, but we left DS at daycare for a couple of hours on Thursday and he did great.

sleeping- We are EXTREMELY lucky here because Patrick sleeps from 7:30pm - 7:00am. My sister has my nephew who is 2 months older than Patrick and Josh still gets up 2-3 times a night. I feel for you guys. She doesn't know what to do. My ped says babies don't need to eat in teh middle of the night after they weigh 12 lbs, but her ped is different so Josh still eats in the middle of the night....not sure how that works.

We are all getting over colds in our house. Patrick seemed to be the best of the 3 of us....we all got it at Xmas being around all the other kids and family.

Happy New Year!!!!

[solongtogo]

I have another question for moms that give their babies bottles. Noelle has to start daycare on the
11th of January...how much milk should I be sending with her. I really don't know how much she takes in??

I sent two 6 oz and 1 4 oz bottle, she would go through most of it.

[BeachBum]

New Developments Well we've had a fun time lately. H has started rolling over with some consistency. Front to back and back to front. He still gets "stuck" sometimes, but has done it enough that I think he is well on his way to being mobile. <<mixed emotions>>
He is also really improving his balance standing up. On Christmas day he was standing up holding on to my fingers (with me not holding back). I was pretty impressed! Mostly I do