Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
Flu
DS1 was sent home with a fever last Wednesday and finally was able to go back to daycare today. He was fever free Monday morning, so we thought he would go back Tuesday, but Monday afternoon after his nap he had a fever again, so we stayed home yesterday, too. All day yesterday he was fever free, so we went in today and I went back to work. He did not want to leave me this morning. After almost a week of Mommy and me, he did not want me to go. I just called his classroom to check and got their voice mail. It is almost lunch time, so they might not have come in from outside yet.
DS1 was sent home with a fever last Wednesday and finally was able to go back to daycare today. He was fever free Monday morning, so we thought he would go back Tuesday, but Monday afternoon after his nap he had a fever again, so we stayed home yesterday, too. All day yesterday he was fever free, so we went in today and I went back to work. He did not want to leave me this morning. After almost a week of Mommy and me, he did not want me to go. I just called his classroom to check and got their voice mail. It is almost lunch time, so they might not have come in from outside yet.
Monday, December 08, 2003
Advent Traditions
DS has an Advent calendar with stickers this year. I got several of them for all of the kids in the church nursery. So far DH has been the one to help him everyday. We missed yesterday, so he got to put 2 on this morning. He now likes stickers!
We are making plans to drive to Idaho to celebrate Christmas (between Christmas and New Years) this year. The boys are changing so fast, and MIL is fighting cancer, that we want to see them as often as possible. Their aunt hasn't even met DS2 yet. (Neither has an uncle, but he lives in Chicago.) We took a weekend trip to Kansas City after Thanksgiving. It went pretty well. We had my niece along, which really helped us manage things. I hope she is able to go to Idaho with us, too.
DS has an Advent calendar with stickers this year. I got several of them for all of the kids in the church nursery. So far DH has been the one to help him everyday. We missed yesterday, so he got to put 2 on this morning. He now likes stickers!
We are making plans to drive to Idaho to celebrate Christmas (between Christmas and New Years) this year. The boys are changing so fast, and MIL is fighting cancer, that we want to see them as often as possible. Their aunt hasn't even met DS2 yet. (Neither has an uncle, but he lives in Chicago.) We took a weekend trip to Kansas City after Thanksgiving. It went pretty well. We had my niece along, which really helped us manage things. I hope she is able to go to Idaho with us, too.
Remembers, but no grudges
I watch DS1 a bit today during my lunch break. He played "ring around the rosie" with a teacher and friend at daycare. It's nice that he doesn't hold a grudge, because I am pretty sure that the classmate was the one who bit him on Friday. I didn't see it happen, but when I was observing over lunch on Friday I saw this same girl push my son and another child and bite a different child. The teachers handled it as well as possible. I hope she gets over this phase soon. This morning DS1 stopped at the doorway to the classroom and didn't want to go in. The child that was closest to us (there were 4 there already) was the suspected biter. He may not hold a grudge, but apparently he doesn't forget either.
I watch DS1 a bit today during my lunch break. He played "ring around the rosie" with a teacher and friend at daycare. It's nice that he doesn't hold a grudge, because I am pretty sure that the classmate was the one who bit him on Friday. I didn't see it happen, but when I was observing over lunch on Friday I saw this same girl push my son and another child and bite a different child. The teachers handled it as well as possible. I hope she gets over this phase soon. This morning DS1 stopped at the doorway to the classroom and didn't want to go in. The child that was closest to us (there were 4 there already) was the suspected biter. He may not hold a grudge, but apparently he doesn't forget either.
Monday, December 01, 2003
Growing up
DS1 is changing so fast lately! He is saying new words almost daily. He is also starting to exert his independence, both at meal time and at sleep time. I got to watch him interacting with the other kids several times last week when I dropped DS2 off at daycare at noon. Today I saw the last part of lunch and some playtime. It's just amazing, watching him grow!
DS1 is changing so fast lately! He is saying new words almost daily. He is also starting to exert his independence, both at meal time and at sleep time. I got to watch him interacting with the other kids several times last week when I dropped DS2 off at daycare at noon. Today I saw the last part of lunch and some playtime. It's just amazing, watching him grow!
Friday, November 21, 2003
Wednesday, November 19, 2003
The CHILD Disorder - The Natural Child Project -- This must be genetically transmitted. Both of my boys are showing signs of it, and I'm sure that I had it too! We are doing many of the approaches that minimize difficulties.
Saturday, November 15, 2003
Monday, November 03, 2003
Checkups all around
Everyone except DH has had a checkup in the past 2 weeks. DS1 had his 18 month checkup last week. He is doing very well, but still on the short side (but we knew that). Developmentally he is doing great. He weighs almost 25 pounds. That's in a higher percentile than his height, but he doesn't look chubby. I'm sure he is getting ready for a growth spurt because some days it seems like he could eat everything in the kitchen. The challenge is to give him lots of things that are good and few junk foods.
He also got his first MMR vaccine last week. We are doing the shots one at a time now so I can tell which shot causes any bad reactions that he might have. So far so good. :-) The MMR was sub-q and it stung so he pulled away and the nurse actually ended up sticking him 3 times. Poor guy!
Everyone except DH has had a checkup in the past 2 weeks. DS1 had his 18 month checkup last week. He is doing very well, but still on the short side (but we knew that). Developmentally he is doing great. He weighs almost 25 pounds. That's in a higher percentile than his height, but he doesn't look chubby. I'm sure he is getting ready for a growth spurt because some days it seems like he could eat everything in the kitchen. The challenge is to give him lots of things that are good and few junk foods.
He also got his first MMR vaccine last week. We are doing the shots one at a time now so I can tell which shot causes any bad reactions that he might have. So far so good. :-) The MMR was sub-q and it stung so he pulled away and the nurse actually ended up sticking him 3 times. Poor guy!
Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Rough nights
DS1 is not sleeping well lately. Actually he is sleeping okay, but when he wakes up in the middle of the night crying he has a great deal of trouble falling back asleep. We've tried every trick we know. Last night / this morning, DH didn't get back to bed before his alarm went off. They were in the recliner in the living room and DS1 was asleep, but DH wasn't. After an extremely difficult night Sunday night we thought that teething may be part of the problem again. So last night DS1 got a dose of Tylenol before bed. That may have helped because he woke up later than Sunday night. Or it could have been the active play to wear him out Monday evening (that we didn't do Sunday evening). I hope this doesn't last long! It's hard enough on me and I get to nap during the day... it's getting very hard on DH... he is definitely getting to be sleep deprived.
DS1 is not sleeping well lately. Actually he is sleeping okay, but when he wakes up in the middle of the night crying he has a great deal of trouble falling back asleep. We've tried every trick we know. Last night / this morning, DH didn't get back to bed before his alarm went off. They were in the recliner in the living room and DS1 was asleep, but DH wasn't. After an extremely difficult night Sunday night we thought that teething may be part of the problem again. So last night DS1 got a dose of Tylenol before bed. That may have helped because he woke up later than Sunday night. Or it could have been the active play to wear him out Monday evening (that we didn't do Sunday evening). I hope this doesn't last long! It's hard enough on me and I get to nap during the day... it's getting very hard on DH... he is definitely getting to be sleep deprived.
Tuesday, October 14, 2003
Monday, October 13, 2003
Too quiet
When a 17 month old is in the next room, and you can't hear his toys making noise, it's too late.
I should have been watching him closer. He often sits quietly reading books. I scooted the computer chair back and saw that he was drawing with a pen on the cardboard box that is his bookcase. I should have taken the pen away then. A few minutes later I checked again. He was happily drawing on the foam floor letters (and his arm) that we have on the living room floor. When his dad came home I said that DS1 had "marked his territory". All but 3 of the visible letters had marks on them, some just a few marks, some were very well "colored in". Seeing them makes me smile, but I should have stopped him sooner.
When a 17 month old is in the next room, and you can't hear his toys making noise, it's too late.
I should have been watching him closer. He often sits quietly reading books. I scooted the computer chair back and saw that he was drawing with a pen on the cardboard box that is his bookcase. I should have taken the pen away then. A few minutes later I checked again. He was happily drawing on the foam floor letters (and his arm) that we have on the living room floor. When his dad came home I said that DS1 had "marked his territory". All but 3 of the visible letters had marks on them, some just a few marks, some were very well "colored in". Seeing them makes me smile, but I should have stopped him sooner.
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
One step
DS1 drank from a cup during the night! We are one step closer, well, actually 1/2 a step. He wouldn't drink from the cup at first. Then I showed him an empty bottle, poured about 1 oz of juice into it, and gave it to him. He drank it all. Then we gave him the cup with the rest of the juice and he drank it, too. Yippee.
DS1 drank from a cup during the night! We are one step closer, well, actually 1/2 a step. He wouldn't drink from the cup at first. Then I showed him an empty bottle, poured about 1 oz of juice into it, and gave it to him. He drank it all. Then we gave him the cup with the rest of the juice and he drank it, too. Yippee.
Monday, October 06, 2003
Bedtime changes
We are starting a process of trying to change DS1's bedtime routine. Last night we gave him a cup of milk instead of a bottle of formula before bed. We also tried a cup of milk, juice, and/or water during the night (instead of the rest of his formula or a bottle with juice). He drank the cup of milk at bedtime without any objection. During the night, however, he didn't want the cup of milk. He drank one swallow from the milk, then refused all other cups. I poured the juice into a bottle and he drank that. This morning he did not want to drink from a cup either. He was crankier than usual this morning, too (probably hungry).
We'll probably try the same thing for a few nights, or until the cup is acceptable all of the time. He can drink without a sippy lid now, and with a straw, too.
After that we want to work in teeth brushing after the last non-water drink. We also want to get him to not need to be held to go to sleep. He will often comfort himself back to sleep in the middle of the night, but usually cries if we put him in the crib for the night when he is still awake (so we don't).
We are starting a process of trying to change DS1's bedtime routine. Last night we gave him a cup of milk instead of a bottle of formula before bed. We also tried a cup of milk, juice, and/or water during the night (instead of the rest of his formula or a bottle with juice). He drank the cup of milk at bedtime without any objection. During the night, however, he didn't want the cup of milk. He drank one swallow from the milk, then refused all other cups. I poured the juice into a bottle and he drank that. This morning he did not want to drink from a cup either. He was crankier than usual this morning, too (probably hungry).
We'll probably try the same thing for a few nights, or until the cup is acceptable all of the time. He can drink without a sippy lid now, and with a straw, too.
After that we want to work in teeth brushing after the last non-water drink. We also want to get him to not need to be held to go to sleep. He will often comfort himself back to sleep in the middle of the night, but usually cries if we put him in the crib for the night when he is still awake (so we don't).
Friday, October 03, 2003
Kids' Playrooms -- I'm working on making some changes to the boys' room, primarily getting everything out of it that is not theirs (but that will take some time).
Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Sunday, September 28, 2003
New skills
Last evening we had DS1 try on a bunch of clothes. I was really impressed with how much he helped, particularly with the pants. He has been pretty good at helping with shirts in the mornings for a while, but since DH gets him ready in the mornings now, I didn't realize how much he can do.
Last evening we had DS1 try on a bunch of clothes. I was really impressed with how much he helped, particularly with the pants. He has been pretty good at helping with shirts in the mornings for a while, but since DH gets him ready in the mornings now, I didn't realize how much he can do.
Monday, September 22, 2003
Monday, September 15, 2003
Picture Day
Today was picture day at daycare. We forgot. Oops! I'm sure people will think DS is cute in his I'm a Big Brother t-shirt, but we would have waited until tomorrow if we would have remembered. We did not intend to have baby brother be so prominent in big brother's "school" picture. I hope they have a re-take day.
Today was picture day at daycare. We forgot. Oops! I'm sure people will think DS is cute in his I'm a Big Brother t-shirt, but we would have waited until tomorrow if we would have remembered. We did not intend to have baby brother be so prominent in big brother's "school" picture. I hope they have a re-take day.
Sunday, September 14, 2003
It's a little brother!
DS #1 is a big brother! Little brother was born Thursday evening, and DS1 stayed overnight with an aunt, uncle, and cousin. It was his first time away from Mom and Dad overnight at the same time. Aunt said that he did fine.
DS1 met DS2 Friday after daycare and seemed to get along well. He touched his foot and head but didn't try to poke him in the eye or anything like that. DS1 did need extra Mommy-lap time, but that as fine because Mommy has a lap again and Daddy was happy to hold DS2 for a while.
DS1 stayed home with a friend when Daddy came to get Mommy and DS2 from the hospital. When I got home DS1 looked like he had been crying, but nothing was said about that. He was very tired because today was a busy day at church and not only did he miss his morning nap (as is common on Sundays) but his afternoon nap was super short, too. He sat on my lap while DS2 slept in the car seat and Daddy unpacked the car. I feel sad for me and DS1 already, that I won't be able to pick him up for several weeks, and that I won't be able to spend as much time with him. I think that he will probably adjust better than I will, especially when his weekday routine is back in place.
DS #1 is a big brother! Little brother was born Thursday evening, and DS1 stayed overnight with an aunt, uncle, and cousin. It was his first time away from Mom and Dad overnight at the same time. Aunt said that he did fine.
DS1 met DS2 Friday after daycare and seemed to get along well. He touched his foot and head but didn't try to poke him in the eye or anything like that. DS1 did need extra Mommy-lap time, but that as fine because Mommy has a lap again and Daddy was happy to hold DS2 for a while.
DS1 stayed home with a friend when Daddy came to get Mommy and DS2 from the hospital. When I got home DS1 looked like he had been crying, but nothing was said about that. He was very tired because today was a busy day at church and not only did he miss his morning nap (as is common on Sundays) but his afternoon nap was super short, too. He sat on my lap while DS2 slept in the car seat and Daddy unpacked the car. I feel sad for me and DS1 already, that I won't be able to pick him up for several weeks, and that I won't be able to spend as much time with him. I think that he will probably adjust better than I will, especially when his weekday routine is back in place.
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
Puffy eye
DS woke up with a puffy upper eyelid this morning. He had a bug bit on his forehead on the other side, so we thought the eyelid might have been from another bite. DCP called me late in the morning and said DS's eye was almost swollen shut and requested that we take him to the doctor. We went in this afternoon and saw one of the other doctors in the practice since ours was only there this morning. Diagnosis... sinus infection. Apparantly, especially in young children, the sinus infection will drain up via the tear ducts toward the eye and cause swelling in the soft tissue there. We have an antibiotic Rx. It may look worse in the morning, but might start to look better that soon. It definitely should look better by Friday. I guess our family pictures (before baby #2) will have to wait a few extra days.
DS woke up with a puffy upper eyelid this morning. He had a bug bit on his forehead on the other side, so we thought the eyelid might have been from another bite. DCP called me late in the morning and said DS's eye was almost swollen shut and requested that we take him to the doctor. We went in this afternoon and saw one of the other doctors in the practice since ours was only there this morning. Diagnosis... sinus infection. Apparantly, especially in young children, the sinus infection will drain up via the tear ducts toward the eye and cause swelling in the soft tissue there. We have an antibiotic Rx. It may look worse in the morning, but might start to look better that soon. It definitely should look better by Friday. I guess our family pictures (before baby #2) will have to wait a few extra days.
Tuesday, August 26, 2003
Monday, August 25, 2003
Friday, August 22, 2003
Tuesday, August 19, 2003
Mom To Mom: Bedtime Rituals -- We need to change our bedtime ritual and/or make it more consistent. It is not very hard for me to hold DS on my lap (because I have no lap). Very soon baby #2 will disrupt things and I really hope that DS will not have more trouble at night.
Wednesday, August 06, 2003
Sleeping
DS's full-night sleeping streak is over, but it sure was wonderful! We have all been sick on and off for the past 3 weeks. I was getting very rundown and DH was starting to feel bad toward the end of last week. DS surprised us Friday morning by sleeping all night (from 9pm - 7am) Thursday night! Then he did it again Friday night, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday nights! Last night he woke up around 3. I gave him a bottle and he had trouble getting back to sleep. He's teething again/still. He has his 2 top middle teeth, and I can see the next top 2 trying to come through. The bottom ones aren't visible yet, though.
DS's full-night sleeping streak is over, but it sure was wonderful! We have all been sick on and off for the past 3 weeks. I was getting very rundown and DH was starting to feel bad toward the end of last week. DS surprised us Friday morning by sleeping all night (from 9pm - 7am) Thursday night! Then he did it again Friday night, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday nights! Last night he woke up around 3. I gave him a bottle and he had trouble getting back to sleep. He's teething again/still. He has his 2 top middle teeth, and I can see the next top 2 trying to come through. The bottom ones aren't visible yet, though.
Monday, July 28, 2003
Big bump
Boulder Community Hospital:Neuroscience -- I just got a call from daycare that DS fell and bumped his head. That's not normally a big deal, but they said that it's a pretty big bump and is brusing very quickly. Since it's almost quitting time, I'm going to go get him now and perhaps we will call the doctor this evening if DH and I get worried. DS's 15 month checkup is tomorrow, so at least we will be seeing a doctor soon anyway.
Boulder Community Hospital:Neuroscience -- I just got a call from daycare that DS fell and bumped his head. That's not normally a big deal, but they said that it's a pretty big bump and is brusing very quickly. Since it's almost quitting time, I'm going to go get him now and perhaps we will call the doctor this evening if DH and I get worried. DS's 15 month checkup is tomorrow, so at least we will be seeing a doctor soon anyway.
Wednesday, July 23, 2003
No more MM
Last night we used the last bag of frozen Mother's Milk (breastmilk) from my friend. So DS will be MM-less until the baby is born, unless he decides to not nurse when given the chance. I'm very grateful to J for her generosity for these past 7 months! We are so lucky to have a friend like her. (She is having pump resistance right now, so I loaned her my Isis manual pumps in case a chance would help. She is getting a little more at work than a couple of weeks ago, so she might be able to keep feeding her DS MM through his first birthday next month.)
Last night we used the last bag of frozen Mother's Milk (breastmilk) from my friend. So DS will be MM-less until the baby is born, unless he decides to not nurse when given the chance. I'm very grateful to J for her generosity for these past 7 months! We are so lucky to have a friend like her. (She is having pump resistance right now, so I loaned her my Isis manual pumps in case a chance would help. She is getting a little more at work than a couple of weeks ago, so she might be able to keep feeding her DS MM through his first birthday next month.)
Monday, July 14, 2003
From Counting the Cost newsletter & website -- "In response to your query about family movies, this isn't a suggestion about what to see, but how to see them affordably! Blockbuster is running a great deal for the summer (through September 1). Join the Kids Club for $2.00. (It's actually a donation toward a national reading program). Then you can rent one "Family Movie" every day for the rest of the summer, absolutely FREE. The only limitation is it can't be first run movie (in the front the store) but every video (VHS, not DVD) in the Family Section is included in the offer. Rentals are good for a week, so you could rotate movies all summer long. This is a nice alternative to the local library's selection (where we typically go for rentals).” ~ Sue
Thursday, July 10, 2003
Walking!
Last night DS walked halfway across his bedroom alone! I didn't see it, but DH did. Then DS turned around and gave his daddy a big grin. :-)
Earlier in the evening DS walked about 4-6 steps from Daddy to me while we were hanging out in the basement during the tornado warning. The gals at Daycare had told us that DS was taking 2-3 steps to get to a toy, and we had seen 1-2 steps between pieces of furniture, but this was definitely "walking" not just "a step". I think it is safe to say that he is "a toddler" now.
Last night DS walked halfway across his bedroom alone! I didn't see it, but DH did. Then DS turned around and gave his daddy a big grin. :-)
Earlier in the evening DS walked about 4-6 steps from Daddy to me while we were hanging out in the basement during the tornado warning. The gals at Daycare had told us that DS was taking 2-3 steps to get to a toy, and we had seen 1-2 steps between pieces of furniture, but this was definitely "walking" not just "a step". I think it is safe to say that he is "a toddler" now.
Tuesday, July 08, 2003
Parenting Advice Column - The Natural Child Project -- Mom seeks alternatives to time-out. The answer, in a nutshell, is view your two year old as a visiting scientist.
Parenting Advice Column - The Natural Child Project -- about handling a one-year-old's anger. DS is definitely starting to show some behaviors that reflect his feelings.
Monday, July 07, 2003
Hydrogen Peroxide For Colds and Flu 3/13/02 -- I may try this on myself. It is tempting to try it on DS because he has had a runny or stuffy nose on and off since starting day care months ago. However, I'm sure the bubbles would scare him.
Wednesday, July 02, 2003
From Stay at Home Successfully
Don’t forget your husband
Remember him? The man you married? He needs your love and attention too. Your marriage should be a priority and not pushed aside while the children are young. Nurturing your relationship may be the factor your children will look to in achieving their own sense of security, and as a model in building their own relationships later on. When the kids are grown and you’re experiencing the “empty nest,” you’ll be glad you’ve nurtured your relationship with your mate.
DH commented the other night while we were in bed that even though having children later in life is difficult, he is glad that we have spent the years before children developing our relationship and building common ground, so when the children are grown we will still have something in common. He's wonderful!
Don’t forget your husband
Remember him? The man you married? He needs your love and attention too. Your marriage should be a priority and not pushed aside while the children are young. Nurturing your relationship may be the factor your children will look to in achieving their own sense of security, and as a model in building their own relationships later on. When the kids are grown and you’re experiencing the “empty nest,” you’ll be glad you’ve nurtured your relationship with your mate.
DH commented the other night while we were in bed that even though having children later in life is difficult, he is glad that we have spent the years before children developing our relationship and building common ground, so when the children are grown we will still have something in common. He's wonderful!
Monday, June 30, 2003
Homeschool Information Library - For New Homeschoolers - Super Mom and the Bratty Kids
Homeschool Information Library - For New Homeschoolers - The Valedictorian Who Failed Socialization
Homeschool Information Library - For New Homeschoolers - Revelations of a Homeschooling Mom
Home Education Magazine
Must I Be Organized? - A to Z Home's Cool Homeschooling - 7/21/02
Home's Cool! Get Organized for Homeschool - OrganizedHome.Com
Is Homeschooling Legal in Kansas? -- Yes.
Homeschool Information Library - For New Homeschoolers - The Valedictorian Who Failed Socialization
Homeschool Information Library - For New Homeschoolers - Revelations of a Homeschooling Mom
Home Education Magazine
Must I Be Organized? - A to Z Home's Cool Homeschooling - 7/21/02
Home's Cool! Get Organized for Homeschool - OrganizedHome.Com
Is Homeschooling Legal in Kansas? -- Yes.
Ten Good Reasons to Homeschool - homeschooling Dads - Homeschooling Information from the National Home Education Network -- My mind is wandering again today. I was thinking about our "dream home" during lunch (because we viewed a friend's home that is for sale yesterday), and now I'm dreaming about homeschooling my children. Do I have the guts to do it? Do I have the guts to stay at home, even if they go to school? Do I have the guts to stay at home BEFORE they are old enough for school?
Friday, June 27, 2003
What you need the second year -- Here's a good list of basic supplies and stuff that a 1-2 year old needs. We have most of this stuff covered already, but it's good to be reminded.
How and when should I move my child from a crib to a bed? -- We will probably wait until baby #2 needs the crib before moving DS to a bed. This has some interesting points about timing and some good suggestings.
Thursday, June 19, 2003
A tooth!
That first tooth finally broke through the surface of the skin. The upper left inscisor is the first one, and I think the upper right will be next. I felt it several days ago but couldn't see it. Last night I got a really good look (DS laughs with his mouth wide open when I blow raspberries on his tummy!) and the upper left one has definitely come through. It isn't down far enough to see unless his mouth is open very wide, though. Thirteen months, 25 days, even later than Daddy got his first tooth.
DS is standing alone for longer periods of time now. Yesterday he stood for probably 30 seconds again, maybe longer (I didn't time it with a watch). He is cruising around furniture with ease and walks with good balance while holding on to just one of my fingers. He might go solo before 14 months, or he might not. :-)
That first tooth finally broke through the surface of the skin. The upper left inscisor is the first one, and I think the upper right will be next. I felt it several days ago but couldn't see it. Last night I got a really good look (DS laughs with his mouth wide open when I blow raspberries on his tummy!) and the upper left one has definitely come through. It isn't down far enough to see unless his mouth is open very wide, though. Thirteen months, 25 days, even later than Daddy got his first tooth.
DS is standing alone for longer periods of time now. Yesterday he stood for probably 30 seconds again, maybe longer (I didn't time it with a watch). He is cruising around furniture with ease and walks with good balance while holding on to just one of my fingers. He might go solo before 14 months, or he might not. :-)
Wednesday, June 18, 2003
An 87-Year-Old Graduate’s Touching Reminder of What Really Matters 6/18/03 -- I've read this before, and I don't know if it is true, but it's a nice story.
Friday, June 13, 2003
Thursday, June 12, 2003
Lots of new stuff
Last weekend DS went to his 2nd PEZ convention. We all had a great time! He's drinking cow's milk regularly now, but not completely off formula or MM. He stands for longer periods on his own but still hasn't taken a step without holding onto someone or something. And his first tooth (upper left) is about to erupt any day now.
Last weekend DS went to his 2nd PEZ convention. We all had a great time! He's drinking cow's milk regularly now, but not completely off formula or MM. He stands for longer periods on his own but still hasn't taken a step without holding onto someone or something. And his first tooth (upper left) is about to erupt any day now.
Friday, May 30, 2003
Tuesday, May 27, 2003
Bunsteads, Haircut, Zoo, and Picnic
It has been quite a weekend! DS ate bunsteads for the first time on Saturday. ((They are a family recipe tuna, egg, cheese salad heated in a hotdog bun.) Daddy gave him his first haircut. It looks pretty good. We've learned a few things. Next time he'll do better around DS's ears and probably won't go directly over his cowlick. Yesterday we went to the zoo and DH carried DS around in the petting farm area. DS didn't actually pet any of the animals, but he was very interested in watching them. He was eye to eye with the cow and the horse, and enjoyed watching other children feed the lambs and kids. After the zoo, we had a barbeque picnic in the park. DS ate half of a hot dog, some baked beans, and some potato salad. So far we haven't found anything that he absolutely won't eat, although some things are definitel last choices if favorites are available. What a great weekend!
It has been quite a weekend! DS ate bunsteads for the first time on Saturday. ((They are a family recipe tuna, egg, cheese salad heated in a hotdog bun.) Daddy gave him his first haircut. It looks pretty good. We've learned a few things. Next time he'll do better around DS's ears and probably won't go directly over his cowlick. Yesterday we went to the zoo and DH carried DS around in the petting farm area. DS didn't actually pet any of the animals, but he was very interested in watching them. He was eye to eye with the cow and the horse, and enjoyed watching other children feed the lambs and kids. After the zoo, we had a barbeque picnic in the park. DS ate half of a hot dog, some baked beans, and some potato salad. So far we haven't found anything that he absolutely won't eat, although some things are definitel last choices if favorites are available. What a great weekend!
Thursday, May 22, 2003
All night
For the 2nd night in a row, DS was in his own bed when it was time to get up in the morning! The night before last, he woke up around 11pm. We were still up, so DH gave him a bottle and got him back to sleep. Last night DS slept all night, from about 9pm until past 6:30 when my alarm went off. I could get used to this! (Cuddling with DS is great, but I sure sleep better these days when he stays in his crib.)
For the 2nd night in a row, DS was in his own bed when it was time to get up in the morning! The night before last, he woke up around 11pm. We were still up, so DH gave him a bottle and got him back to sleep. Last night DS slept all night, from about 9pm until past 6:30 when my alarm went off. I could get used to this! (Cuddling with DS is great, but I sure sleep better these days when he stays in his crib.)
Tuesday, May 20, 2003
An update
It has been so long between updates that I'm not even going to try "catching up". This entry is about crying. DS cried unconsolably yesterday evening for about 5-10 minutes. It sure seemed like much longer, but that's all it was. I think we just waited too late for supper. He was very happy and playful when we got home after work and daycare. He was starting to get fussy, so DH changed his diaper while I was fixing dinner. Then DS would not stop crying. He didn't want a bottle; he didn't want Cheerios; he didn't want to play. So I just held him and rocked (which he didn't seem to like much either) and talked to him softly. Eventually he calmed down, but would start crying again without any apparent provocation. We gave him some Tylenol because we are pretty sure he is teething (lots more drool & now sucks / chews on all 4 fingers at a time instead of just 2). A few minutes after the Tylenol, when I had started eating while holding him, DS seemed interested in eating, too, so I gave him some of my potatoes. After that he ate a lot! I guess his little tummy tolerates being empty not even as well as my pregnant tummy does. :-(
It has been so long between updates that I'm not even going to try "catching up". This entry is about crying. DS cried unconsolably yesterday evening for about 5-10 minutes. It sure seemed like much longer, but that's all it was. I think we just waited too late for supper. He was very happy and playful when we got home after work and daycare. He was starting to get fussy, so DH changed his diaper while I was fixing dinner. Then DS would not stop crying. He didn't want a bottle; he didn't want Cheerios; he didn't want to play. So I just held him and rocked (which he didn't seem to like much either) and talked to him softly. Eventually he calmed down, but would start crying again without any apparent provocation. We gave him some Tylenol because we are pretty sure he is teething (lots more drool & now sucks / chews on all 4 fingers at a time instead of just 2). A few minutes after the Tylenol, when I had started eating while holding him, DS seemed interested in eating, too, so I gave him some of my potatoes. After that he ate a lot! I guess his little tummy tolerates being empty not even as well as my pregnant tummy does. :-(
Thursday, May 08, 2003
Food Remedies: Constipation -- I sure wish the literature agreed on what helps and what hurts constipation. This says pears and canned fruit in general make constipation worse! It does say that magnesium has laxative properties, and that chocolate is a leading source of magnesium. I knew that chocolate had laxative properties, and I suspect that the chocolate icing on DS's birthday cake a week ago might have been the trigger that loosened him up.
Growth and Development - Constipation -- DS is still having constipation problems. He hasn't had a good sized BM in a week, his appetite is low, and his abdomen is bloated. We have started the mineral oil up again.
Tuesday, May 06, 2003
Catching up
Last Friday I nursed DS for the last time in a long time. After putting off my doctor for about 6 weeks, we decided that it was time for me to start taking blood pressure medicine again. We did several searches and found some meds that were okay for nursing, and some that were okay during pregnancy, but couldn't find any that we were convinced were safe for both. I had anticipated this, and since my supply had be getting lower and lower, when I nursed DS Friday night I told him to enjoy it because it was the last time for a while.
Over the weekend DS vomitted for the first time. We introduced cows' milk Saturday -- only about 1-2 ounces. He threw up during the night. His appetite Sunday was very low. Then Sunday night he threw up 4 more times, once in bed, twice on his dad, and once on me. A couple of times over the weekend he nuzzled and pulled on my shirt, and I know he was wanting to nurse and couldn't figure out why I wouldn't comfort him that way, like I always have comforted him when a hug and a kiss aren't enough. I felt sad about that. There have been stomach bugs going around (according to both our doctor and day care), but since he didn't have diareaha or a fever, we are pretty sure the vomitting was just a reaction to the milk.
We had DS's 1 year pictures taken at J C Penney yesterday evening. I was concerned that we might not get good smiles if he was still feeling bad, but he was a charmer, as usual!
Last Friday I nursed DS for the last time in a long time. After putting off my doctor for about 6 weeks, we decided that it was time for me to start taking blood pressure medicine again. We did several searches and found some meds that were okay for nursing, and some that were okay during pregnancy, but couldn't find any that we were convinced were safe for both. I had anticipated this, and since my supply had be getting lower and lower, when I nursed DS Friday night I told him to enjoy it because it was the last time for a while.
Over the weekend DS vomitted for the first time. We introduced cows' milk Saturday -- only about 1-2 ounces. He threw up during the night. His appetite Sunday was very low. Then Sunday night he threw up 4 more times, once in bed, twice on his dad, and once on me. A couple of times over the weekend he nuzzled and pulled on my shirt, and I know he was wanting to nurse and couldn't figure out why I wouldn't comfort him that way, like I always have comforted him when a hug and a kiss aren't enough. I felt sad about that. There have been stomach bugs going around (according to both our doctor and day care), but since he didn't have diareaha or a fever, we are pretty sure the vomitting was just a reaction to the milk.
We had DS's 1 year pictures taken at J C Penney yesterday evening. I was concerned that we might not get good smiles if he was still feeling bad, but he was a charmer, as usual!
Wednesday, April 30, 2003
Care of the intact penis -- I like the Mothering.Com website. Here is one of their "Ask the Expert" questions.
Transitioning
DS is "transitioning" from the infant room to the 12-18 month room this week. He started today because he has been home with a fever for the past 2 days. He is having lunch with them now, then will go outside to play, and will probably nap when they do after playing outside.
The birthday party Sunday was a blast! He loved the chocolate icing on the cake, and he seemed to enjoy the bare white cake after the icing was gone, too. We let him feed himself (without a bib) and he only got 2 small spots of icing on his shirt, and none in his hair, ears, eyes, etc. When he was finished he had quite a chocolate mustache and some on his cheeks and just a little on his nose. He showed quite a preference for eating with his left hand (which he has shown for quite a while now). We fed him both vanilla and choclate ice cream with a spoon, and some of that dribbled down his chin. Overall he was quite neat for a 1 year old having cake and ice cream.
DS is "transitioning" from the infant room to the 12-18 month room this week. He started today because he has been home with a fever for the past 2 days. He is having lunch with them now, then will go outside to play, and will probably nap when they do after playing outside.
The birthday party Sunday was a blast! He loved the chocolate icing on the cake, and he seemed to enjoy the bare white cake after the icing was gone, too. We let him feed himself (without a bib) and he only got 2 small spots of icing on his shirt, and none in his hair, ears, eyes, etc. When he was finished he had quite a chocolate mustache and some on his cheeks and just a little on his nose. He showed quite a preference for eating with his left hand (which he has shown for quite a while now). We fed him both vanilla and choclate ice cream with a spoon, and some of that dribbled down his chin. Overall he was quite neat for a 1 year old having cake and ice cream.
Monday, April 21, 2003
Lots of new skills
DS has done a lot of new things in the past week, and I have been swamped at work (therefore little or no blogging) and I have barely been on the computer at home.
That's about all I can remember right now. He has made some wonderful advances in the past couple of weeks! He may take his first unassisted steps before his birthday later this week, but I won't be surprised if he doesn't. His DCP thinks that he is teething and that his "eye teeth" are going to be the first ones to come through.
DS has done a lot of new things in the past week, and I have been swamped at work (therefore little or no blogging) and I have barely been on the computer at home.
- He put the lid on his shape container, instead of just taking it off and putting the parts in that way
- With DH's help, he has learned to put the shapes in through the holes in the lid (the circle is the easiest, and the square is the hardest)
- He ate, lamb, raisins, and unleaven bread last Thursday
- He went to a baseball game yesterday and had fun removing my cap and either putting it back on my head or putting it on his own head
- He stood alone for almost 3 seconds
- While eating out at a restaurant, he torn his bread into tiny pieces and put them back on his plate -- we finally figured out that he was copying what we do with his bread!
- He definitely says, "Hi" appropriately (and he waves by sticking his arm up in the air with his hand open)
- He ate a club cracker by "biting" off appropriate sized pieces instead of trying to stuff the whole thing in his mouth
That's about all I can remember right now. He has made some wonderful advances in the past couple of weeks! He may take his first unassisted steps before his birthday later this week, but I won't be surprised if he doesn't. His DCP thinks that he is teething and that his "eye teeth" are going to be the first ones to come through.
Friday, April 11, 2003
Thursday, April 10, 2003
Monday, April 07, 2003
"Moving Up" Soon
I got a call from DS's DCP today. She and his future teacher want to meet with us to discuss the changes coming up. DS is scheduled to start visiting the next room (12-18 month olds) the week after his birthday (only 3 weeks from today!) and to move up the Monday after that. A big change is that generally don't give bottles in the next room. They do help the kids with their cups, though, if needed. Walking is not an absolute requirement like I thought it was. DCP said that seeing the other kids walking and competition for toys is usually enough to encourage the "almost walkers" like DS. Besides, 3 weeks from now DS could be walking alone. Other changes include having only 2 adults (for 8 children), instead of 3 adults for up to 9 children. She also said that there seems to be a lot of biting in that age group. DS has already been the recipient of a bite at church, but since he still has no teeth, he won't be hurting anyone even if he does bite.
I also expect that I will not go over for lunch so frequently. Our lunchtime nursing is very little nursing now, mostly cuddle and play time. I'm going to start a yoga class 2 days a week so that will give us a gradual transition. DS's DCP also said that is may be harder for DS when I leave at lunch after he changes rooms.
I got a call from DS's DCP today. She and his future teacher want to meet with us to discuss the changes coming up. DS is scheduled to start visiting the next room (12-18 month olds) the week after his birthday (only 3 weeks from today!) and to move up the Monday after that. A big change is that generally don't give bottles in the next room. They do help the kids with their cups, though, if needed. Walking is not an absolute requirement like I thought it was. DCP said that seeing the other kids walking and competition for toys is usually enough to encourage the "almost walkers" like DS. Besides, 3 weeks from now DS could be walking alone. Other changes include having only 2 adults (for 8 children), instead of 3 adults for up to 9 children. She also said that there seems to be a lot of biting in that age group. DS has already been the recipient of a bite at church, but since he still has no teeth, he won't be hurting anyone even if he does bite.
I also expect that I will not go over for lunch so frequently. Our lunchtime nursing is very little nursing now, mostly cuddle and play time. I'm going to start a yoga class 2 days a week so that will give us a gradual transition. DS's DCP also said that is may be harder for DS when I leave at lunch after he changes rooms.
Thursday, April 03, 2003
An idea
While talking with a friend about DS's constipation problem, she mentioned that the only time her son had problems was when he was taking iron. I realized that the formula we feed DS at home is the "with added iron" kind. This weekend I am going to buy some of the other kind to see if that will help. I have also placed another call to our doctor to see if he has any other suggestions because DS seems in so much pain anytime his system trys to have a BM.
While talking with a friend about DS's constipation problem, she mentioned that the only time her son had problems was when he was taking iron. I realized that the formula we feed DS at home is the "with added iron" kind. This weekend I am going to buy some of the other kind to see if that will help. I have also placed another call to our doctor to see if he has any other suggestions because DS seems in so much pain anytime his system trys to have a BM.
Sunday, March 30, 2003
It's been a while since I blogged. It's been a hectic week-plus. My brother's surgery went well Friday and he may be going home from the hospital tomorrow. I talked to a cousin Friday evening (about my brother) and found out that another cousin is getting married this fall, probably in September or October. Depending on the date they choose and the date my baby chooses, I may have to miss the wedding.
DS crawled up some stairs for the first time yesterday (4 steps at church). Now we need to teach him to go down backwards, because he turned around and wanted to go down head-first! He is always walking very well holding onto someone's fingers or his "push-walker".
My Sweet Adeline competition last weekend was fun but we didn't perform up to our ability during the 6 minutes on stage when it counted for the competition. DH did fine taking care of DS, and DS did very well being quiet during the singing.
I'm at work right now (10pm on Sunday night) and wish I were at home. This is part of what I do, and I usually take it very much in stride. This time has been different. All I want to do lately is sleep, or hold or play with DS. I have been extremely un-motivated at work the past few weeks and I wonder "why am I here" often. My new office finally got furniture over a week ago, but I can't move in until the electricity is hooked up to my desk (because they will have to pull it away from the wall to do the work). Hopefully getting into my new location (but not until the end of this/next week) will inspire me.
DS crawled up some stairs for the first time yesterday (4 steps at church). Now we need to teach him to go down backwards, because he turned around and wanted to go down head-first! He is always walking very well holding onto someone's fingers or his "push-walker".
My Sweet Adeline competition last weekend was fun but we didn't perform up to our ability during the 6 minutes on stage when it counted for the competition. DH did fine taking care of DS, and DS did very well being quiet during the singing.
I'm at work right now (10pm on Sunday night) and wish I were at home. This is part of what I do, and I usually take it very much in stride. This time has been different. All I want to do lately is sleep, or hold or play with DS. I have been extremely un-motivated at work the past few weeks and I wonder "why am I here" often. My new office finally got furniture over a week ago, but I can't move in until the electricity is hooked up to my desk (because they will have to pull it away from the wall to do the work). Hopefully getting into my new location (but not until the end of this/next week) will inspire me.
Thursday, March 20, 2003
Ouch
Yesterday evening DS was bitten by one of the other kids in the nursery at church. It didn't break the skin, and the nursery attendant said he only cried for a couple of minutes. The boy who did it is 15 months old, I think. I think DS must have forgiven the other boy pretty quickly, because when we left he waved and jabbered at the other boy.
Yesterday evening DS was bitten by one of the other kids in the nursery at church. It didn't break the skin, and the nursery attendant said he only cried for a couple of minutes. The boy who did it is 15 months old, I think. I think DS must have forgiven the other boy pretty quickly, because when we left he waved and jabbered at the other boy.
Sleep
Last night DS slept until 4am again! This is the 3rd or 4th time since the weekend. It sure has been nice! And last night / this morning he even stayed asleep until about 7 after nursing (and a bottle). I'm hoping that this means he is "sleeping through the night", or will be soon. Six to seven hour stretches are great! Now if I would just go to bed at a decent time, I could get that much too! :-)
Last night DS slept until 4am again! This is the 3rd or 4th time since the weekend. It sure has been nice! And last night / this morning he even stayed asleep until about 7 after nursing (and a bottle). I'm hoping that this means he is "sleeping through the night", or will be soon. Six to seven hour stretches are great! Now if I would just go to bed at a decent time, I could get that much too! :-)
Wednesday, March 19, 2003
BM success!
After two days of Karo (corn) syrup in his juice, three tries with glycerin suppositories, 4-5 days of abdominal massage, and several warm baths, DS finally had the big uncomfortable BM we've been waiting and hoping for. About and hour and a half after the suppository last evening he started grunting and squirming, so I started drawing the warm bath. I knew it could be messy, but by that point I didn't care. He had been so uncomfortable for so long.
(Stop reading now if you don't want the graphic details of what and how it finally worked.)
His diaper had a small amount in it, as it has most changes for the past 2 days. Since DH was gone, and I was on my own, I did things a little differently than usual. I undressed DS and put on another regular diaper, put our towels on the bathroom floor, then undressed myself, took of DS's diaper and we both got in the warm tub. We played and I rubbed DS's tummy a little. It had been close to 20 minutes without any action, and I was about to get us out when DS started squirming and whining. A little BM material came out and floated around in tiny pieces (ick) and then a medium sized chunk. Okay, that was progress. Then a minute or two later DS really started crying. I lifted him up a bit in the water so he wasn't sitting on the bottom of the tub. Out came 2 big logs. I waited a bit to make sure that was all, then DS started sucking his fingers (which I had kept out of the water once things started moving). I got us out of the tub, flushed the logs, and took DS to the kitchen for a real bath with soap in the kitchen sink. Within minutes he was jabbering and playing and as happy as ever! (Not reserved, clingy, and almost lethargic like he had been for almost 2 days.) Large chunks of fecal material have never been so sweet!
After the 2nd bath, nighttime diaper, pajamas, nursing, and getting DS to sleep, I wiped out the tub then sprayed it down with Lysol. It wasn't nearly as gross as I had anticipated.
After two days of Karo (corn) syrup in his juice, three tries with glycerin suppositories, 4-5 days of abdominal massage, and several warm baths, DS finally had the big uncomfortable BM we've been waiting and hoping for. About and hour and a half after the suppository last evening he started grunting and squirming, so I started drawing the warm bath. I knew it could be messy, but by that point I didn't care. He had been so uncomfortable for so long.
(Stop reading now if you don't want the graphic details of what and how it finally worked.)
His diaper had a small amount in it, as it has most changes for the past 2 days. Since DH was gone, and I was on my own, I did things a little differently than usual. I undressed DS and put on another regular diaper, put our towels on the bathroom floor, then undressed myself, took of DS's diaper and we both got in the warm tub. We played and I rubbed DS's tummy a little. It had been close to 20 minutes without any action, and I was about to get us out when DS started squirming and whining. A little BM material came out and floated around in tiny pieces (ick) and then a medium sized chunk. Okay, that was progress. Then a minute or two later DS really started crying. I lifted him up a bit in the water so he wasn't sitting on the bottom of the tub. Out came 2 big logs. I waited a bit to make sure that was all, then DS started sucking his fingers (which I had kept out of the water once things started moving). I got us out of the tub, flushed the logs, and took DS to the kitchen for a real bath with soap in the kitchen sink. Within minutes he was jabbering and playing and as happy as ever! (Not reserved, clingy, and almost lethargic like he had been for almost 2 days.) Large chunks of fecal material have never been so sweet!
After the 2nd bath, nighttime diaper, pajamas, nursing, and getting DS to sleep, I wiped out the tub then sprayed it down with Lysol. It wasn't nearly as gross as I had anticipated.
Tuesday, March 18, 2003
Oops
The news is still bad, but it is a different person. My brother is the one with cancer on his kidneys. He just called to correct my misunderstanding because he wife still reads Blog to a Baby. (Hi J!)
I think my brain must have just flipped out last night when my husband told me about the phone call from my dad. I heard my brother's name, then my dad's name, then "cancer" and the rest must have gotten mixed around. It's a big relief about my dad... he has enough to deal with right now with recovering from his broken hip (and getting to go home tomorrow -- finally). But it raises all kinds of other concerns for my brother and his family, which includes 3 children. The good news is that renal cell cancer, if still Stage I, or even Stage II, has a very good prognosis. He will have surgery, probably next week, and they will remove the kidney and some tissue around it and a few lymph nodes to test to see if it has spread. Even without a biopsy they are fairly sure it is malignant. Apparently the looks of it on the CT scan are pretty telling.
The news is still bad, but it is a different person. My brother is the one with cancer on his kidneys. He just called to correct my misunderstanding because he wife still reads Blog to a Baby. (Hi J!)
I think my brain must have just flipped out last night when my husband told me about the phone call from my dad. I heard my brother's name, then my dad's name, then "cancer" and the rest must have gotten mixed around. It's a big relief about my dad... he has enough to deal with right now with recovering from his broken hip (and getting to go home tomorrow -- finally). But it raises all kinds of other concerns for my brother and his family, which includes 3 children. The good news is that renal cell cancer, if still Stage I, or even Stage II, has a very good prognosis. He will have surgery, probably next week, and they will remove the kidney and some tissue around it and a few lymph nodes to test to see if it has spread. Even without a biopsy they are fairly sure it is malignant. Apparently the looks of it on the CT scan are pretty telling.
Monday, March 17, 2003
OncoLink -- I just found out that my dad has cancer. He has a cancerous growth on one of his kidneys. I don't know much about it yet, but they think they caught it early and that it has not metastasized. They will operate "soon", but I don't know how soon.
Cancer is such a scary word. My mom died from cancer 4 1/2 years ago. My son never met his Grandma. He does know Grandpa, and I pray that he will know him long enough to remember him!
Cancer is such a scary word. My mom died from cancer 4 1/2 years ago. My son never met his Grandma. He does know Grandpa, and I pray that he will know him long enough to remember him!
Friday, March 14, 2003
Feeding Times - Issue 5 - January/February 2003 -- this includes an article about the Ad Council getting ready to do a campaign to promote breastfeeding.
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Don't Try This at Home! - How a C-section is performed, in detail, from the doctor's perspective. I was aware of most of this... between watching videos, watching my sister's, and having one myself.
Cloth Diapered Children and Day Care Providers -- Is Cloth a hygienic alternative within a day care setting? -- Cut of Cloth -- I don't think it ever dawned on me that a Day Care would not accept cloth diapers. Mine has made provisions for handling them, and I didn't even have to provide my own diaper pail. The first teacher would separate the diapers from the covers for me, but the current one will not. I have also asked them to dump the solids into the toilet, but they won't do that either. The good side to that is that I know at the end of the day how big of a "bm" DS had. This article makes an interesting point, that for the reduction of spreading disease, all fecal matter should be flushed, both from cloth and disposable diapers.
Monday, March 10, 2003
Friday, March 07, 2003
I feel awful
I stayed home from work this morning and went to the doctor to have my ear checked. I have a bad cold and my ear and throat hurt. He thinks it's a sinus infection with fluid behind my eardrum because the ear itself looks okay. I vomited again this morning, too. That is definitely no fun! I stayed home all day Wednesday because of "morning" sickness. I took a morning nap and had intended to go to work in the afternoon, but my "morning" nap lasted until 2pm. Besides the antibiotic, my doctor prescribed plenty of fluids and lots of rest. Yeah, right.
I stayed home from work this morning and went to the doctor to have my ear checked. I have a bad cold and my ear and throat hurt. He thinks it's a sinus infection with fluid behind my eardrum because the ear itself looks okay. I vomited again this morning, too. That is definitely no fun! I stayed home all day Wednesday because of "morning" sickness. I took a morning nap and had intended to go to work in the afternoon, but my "morning" nap lasted until 2pm. Besides the antibiotic, my doctor prescribed plenty of fluids and lots of rest. Yeah, right.
Tuesday, March 04, 2003
Changing The Sleep Pattern In The Family Bed -- an email friend of mine recommended this, but she took much more time at each step than Dr. Gordon suggests.
Last night was rough
Everytime DS awoke he cried and cried. I tried to nurse him, but there isn't much there (which made me sad enough to cry too). Even after drinking a bottle it took him a while to go to sleep, and he didn't seem very satisfied. We are starting to think that he might really be teething finally.
I think I'm catching DS's cold, too. He has had a runny nose since Saturday. I don't really feel like it's a cold yet, but my voice is starting to sound like I'm getting one. I have to figure out how to get more sleep!
Everytime DS awoke he cried and cried. I tried to nurse him, but there isn't much there (which made me sad enough to cry too). Even after drinking a bottle it took him a while to go to sleep, and he didn't seem very satisfied. We are starting to think that he might really be teething finally.
I think I'm catching DS's cold, too. He has had a runny nose since Saturday. I don't really feel like it's a cold yet, but my voice is starting to sound like I'm getting one. I have to figure out how to get more sleep!
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
What if I want to wean my baby? -- I may have blogged this link before, but now that DS is getting very little of my milk, I like reading the reminder of how much good it has done for him so far.
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Monday, February 24, 2003
It's been an interesting couple of days.
Yesterday we had only 23 people at church (usually there are 60-70) because of an impending snow storm. The pastor and song leader (DH) came down to the pew level, and everyone else sat in the first 3 pews. I got the sound system set up while one of the guys held DS, then one of the gals shared her hymnal with me. The pastor asked for volunteers to read the scripture passages and two different people came forward. For me, it was just an awesome worship experience!
Today, DS and I got to stay home, like most other people who have anything to do with schools in our half of the state. We got over 10 inches of snow yesterday and over 140 schools and daycares announced closures for today. The high temperatures were in the teens and wind chills were below zero. My work (a university), did not close, but since the daycare did, we got to stay home.
Yesterday we had only 23 people at church (usually there are 60-70) because of an impending snow storm. The pastor and song leader (DH) came down to the pew level, and everyone else sat in the first 3 pews. I got the sound system set up while one of the guys held DS, then one of the gals shared her hymnal with me. The pastor asked for volunteers to read the scripture passages and two different people came forward. For me, it was just an awesome worship experience!
Today, DS and I got to stay home, like most other people who have anything to do with schools in our half of the state. We got over 10 inches of snow yesterday and over 140 schools and daycares announced closures for today. The high temperatures were in the teens and wind chills were below zero. My work (a university), did not close, but since the daycare did, we got to stay home.
Friday, February 21, 2003
Thursday, February 20, 2003
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Ground Beef
DS is trying ground beef at lunch today. Day care had "sloppy joes" on the menu, which for the infants means buns and ground beef (without seasoning). Since we desparately need to introduce meats to DS, I called DH to see what he thought. I'll find out in about 30 minutes how it went.
DS didn't have any formula yesterday afternoon. He ate quite a bit for his afternoon snack and didn't even finish the 4 oz bottle, so they didn't need to try formula. I only brought 2 bottles for him this morning, so he will most likely get to try the formula this afternoon. Hopefully he won't have any problems with the beef or formula, since we would have a hard time telling which new thing caused the problems (unless they show up within minutes).
DS is trying ground beef at lunch today. Day care had "sloppy joes" on the menu, which for the infants means buns and ground beef (without seasoning). Since we desparately need to introduce meats to DS, I called DH to see what he thought. I'll find out in about 30 minutes how it went.
DS didn't have any formula yesterday afternoon. He ate quite a bit for his afternoon snack and didn't even finish the 4 oz bottle, so they didn't need to try formula. I only brought 2 bottles for him this morning, so he will most likely get to try the formula this afternoon. Hopefully he won't have any problems with the beef or formula, since we would have a hard time telling which new thing caused the problems (unless they show up within minutes).
Monday, February 17, 2003
Formula - maybe
DS may try formula this afternoon at daycare, at my request. My milk supply is still quite low, and it will be for a long time... here's why. My friend is still giving us some of her extra milk, but DS drank 2 bottles at daycare this morning, so there is only one left for this afternoon. We nursed fairly late over lunch today, so one may be enough, but it may not.
DS may try formula this afternoon at daycare, at my request. My milk supply is still quite low, and it will be for a long time... here's why. My friend is still giving us some of her extra milk, but DS drank 2 bottles at daycare this morning, so there is only one left for this afternoon. We nursed fairly late over lunch today, so one may be enough, but it may not.
Friday, February 14, 2003
Barley Cereal
Today DS will have barley cereal at day care. He has been constipated for the past several days, so we are trying as many of the high-fiber foods as we can. He eats prunes, peaches, pears, and peas already. I have asked day care to not give him applesauce, bananas, or rice cereal for a while. And now we are trying barley cereal and will probably try apricots this evening. He strains quite a bit and cries, but usually just squeezes out a little bit. It's been over a week since he's had a good sized BM. I hurt with him!
Today DS will have barley cereal at day care. He has been constipated for the past several days, so we are trying as many of the high-fiber foods as we can. He eats prunes, peaches, pears, and peas already. I have asked day care to not give him applesauce, bananas, or rice cereal for a while. And now we are trying barley cereal and will probably try apricots this evening. He strains quite a bit and cries, but usually just squeezes out a little bit. It's been over a week since he's had a good sized BM. I hurt with him!
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
Healthy again
DS is doing fine now. He had a fever last week for 3 days. He also had a rash show up on the 2nd day, so we took him to the Dr. to make sure it was not chicken pox, measles, German measles, or rosella. It's "just a virus".
Saturday morning we went to our church's pancake feed, since DS had been feverless for 24 hours. He ate pancakes for the first time and seemed to like them. DH was the pancake cooker and made one with a smiley face. DS really likes animal crackers and will shovel them into his mouth too fast if several pieces are within reach. He almost choked on a mouthful Sunday, so now I have to keep them out of reach and make sure that he can only get 1 or 2 pieces at a time.
DS is doing fine now. He had a fever last week for 3 days. He also had a rash show up on the 2nd day, so we took him to the Dr. to make sure it was not chicken pox, measles, German measles, or rosella. It's "just a virus".
Saturday morning we went to our church's pancake feed, since DS had been feverless for 24 hours. He ate pancakes for the first time and seemed to like them. DH was the pancake cooker and made one with a smiley face. DS really likes animal crackers and will shovel them into his mouth too fast if several pieces are within reach. He almost choked on a mouthful Sunday, so now I have to keep them out of reach and make sure that he can only get 1 or 2 pieces at a time.
Wednesday, February 05, 2003
Home sick
DS had a slight fever (100.6) this morning, so we are staying home today. I don't feel very good either, so I hope today isn't too bad for us. The tylenol seems to have helped, plus we both got a short nap and have now had something to eat. I am using the tv as a babysitter more than I like already today. I just don't have the energy to be very active playing with and holding DS. We're watching Blue's Clues right now.
DS had a slight fever (100.6) this morning, so we are staying home today. I don't feel very good either, so I hope today isn't too bad for us. The tylenol seems to have helped, plus we both got a short nap and have now had something to eat. I am using the tv as a babysitter more than I like already today. I just don't have the energy to be very active playing with and holding DS. We're watching Blue's Clues right now.
Friday, January 31, 2003
Thursday, January 30, 2003
9 month check-up
DS's 9 month check-up went okay this morning. His height is still near the 50th percentile, but his weight is around the 25th instead of 50th. Nine months must be a "chunky" stage, because DS doesn't seem light for his height. He has quite a milk-belly and his arms and legs are full.
We forgot to give him Tylenol before the appointment, so he didn't have the benefit of the pain medicine in his system during the shots. I held him ready to breastfeed, as usual, but he was eyeing the nurses with great suspicion, particularly the one holding onto his legs. He didn't mind the needle stick much, but he cried when the medicine was going in for the first one. He looked up at me with, "why are you letting them do this to me?" in his eyes. The second shot wasn't as bad (the medicine must not have stung as much) and he nursed right through it. He fell asleep in the car on the way home. When we got home he woke up as I was laying him in his crib, so I nursed him some more and gave him some Tylenol. He slept for almost an hour and a half. Then I took him to day-care.
DS's 9 month check-up went okay this morning. His height is still near the 50th percentile, but his weight is around the 25th instead of 50th. Nine months must be a "chunky" stage, because DS doesn't seem light for his height. He has quite a milk-belly and his arms and legs are full.
We forgot to give him Tylenol before the appointment, so he didn't have the benefit of the pain medicine in his system during the shots. I held him ready to breastfeed, as usual, but he was eyeing the nurses with great suspicion, particularly the one holding onto his legs. He didn't mind the needle stick much, but he cried when the medicine was going in for the first one. He looked up at me with, "why are you letting them do this to me?" in his eyes. The second shot wasn't as bad (the medicine must not have stung as much) and he nursed right through it. He fell asleep in the car on the way home. When we got home he woke up as I was laying him in his crib, so I nursed him some more and gave him some Tylenol. He slept for almost an hour and a half. Then I took him to day-care.
Sunday, January 26, 2003
Spaghetti
DS tried spaghetti this afternoon and liked it! We had lunch at Favoli's restaurtant today. DH had spaghetti and decided to share with DS. Most of the pieces were about 1/2" long and had only a touch of sauce. DS did fine mushing them in his mouth, and he wasn't too messy either. Most of the mess came from DH missing DS's mouth. :-)
DS tried spaghetti this afternoon and liked it! We had lunch at Favoli's restaurtant today. DH had spaghetti and decided to share with DS. Most of the pieces were about 1/2" long and had only a touch of sauce. DS did fine mushing them in his mouth, and he wasn't too messy either. Most of the mess came from DH missing DS's mouth. :-)
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Peek-a-boo
This morning when I came out of the shower DH and DS were playing peek-a-boo. That's not uncommon, but DS was doing the covering up and uncovering himself with the quilt while laying in bed! DH was across the room buttoning his shirt saying, "Where's baby?" and "Peek-a-boo" at the appropriate times. I'm not sure who was leading and who was following, but it was so cute to see DS lifting the cover to hide his face and them pulling it down with a big grin for Daddy.
This morning when I came out of the shower DH and DS were playing peek-a-boo. That's not uncommon, but DS was doing the covering up and uncovering himself with the quilt while laying in bed! DH was across the room buttoning his shirt saying, "Where's baby?" and "Peek-a-boo" at the appropriate times. I'm not sure who was leading and who was following, but it was so cute to see DS lifting the cover to hide his face and them pulling it down with a big grin for Daddy.
Friday, January 17, 2003
Supplementing - sort of
My son may be drinking something besides my milk this afternoon. A friend of mine asked me about banking her milk because she dumps about 12 oz a day. Her freezer is full and she pumps that much more than her son drinks at daycare. Since we don't have a milk bank locally, I offered to take some of it off her hands. She brought me about 40 oz last night.
This morning DS had "Cheerio soup" make with her milk. (I invented "Cheerio soup" yesterday since DS needed cereal but we don't have any boxed baby cereal at home. It's my name for crushed cheerios mixed with milk.) I also sent a bottle with him to my sister's as a backup in case he drinks all 3 bottles of my milk and wants more before coming home. It is a little odd giving him someone else's milk, but I don't feel bad about it like I would if I were giving formula. My supply is still low, so our freezer stash was dwindling. I am more confident that my supply will pick back up before we get too low in the freezer now.
My son may be drinking something besides my milk this afternoon. A friend of mine asked me about banking her milk because she dumps about 12 oz a day. Her freezer is full and she pumps that much more than her son drinks at daycare. Since we don't have a milk bank locally, I offered to take some of it off her hands. She brought me about 40 oz last night.
This morning DS had "Cheerio soup" make with her milk. (I invented "Cheerio soup" yesterday since DS needed cereal but we don't have any boxed baby cereal at home. It's my name for crushed cheerios mixed with milk.) I also sent a bottle with him to my sister's as a backup in case he drinks all 3 bottles of my milk and wants more before coming home. It is a little odd giving him someone else's milk, but I don't feel bad about it like I would if I were giving formula. My supply is still low, so our freezer stash was dwindling. I am more confident that my supply will pick back up before we get too low in the freezer now.
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
Prunes
We've started giving DS prumes to help with BMs. Since last Saturday he has had several very firm, very upsetting BMs. We introduced prunes on Saturday and I sent one "ice cube" (about an ounce, about 1 prune) for him yesterday and one for today. Yesterday's seemed to help because he had a large BM in the evening, but it was still firm and upsetting. Hopefully the next one will be easier to pass and not upset him so much.
We've started giving DS prumes to help with BMs. Since last Saturday he has had several very firm, very upsetting BMs. We introduced prunes on Saturday and I sent one "ice cube" (about an ounce, about 1 prune) for him yesterday and one for today. Yesterday's seemed to help because he had a large BM in the evening, but it was still firm and upsetting. Hopefully the next one will be easier to pass and not upset him so much.
Sunday, January 12, 2003
Night-time challenges
Tonight, for the third night in a row, DS has had a very difficult time falling asleep at night. He has fallen asleep for naps okay, both at daycare and at home this weekend. But he has cried a lot and reawoken a lot the past three nights. This evening, after nursing him on both sides 3 times (twice beteen 8 and 9pm, then again after playing for awhile because he wasn't going to sleep), I warmed up a bottle and DH fed it to him. It's the first time that we have given him a bottle because he was still hungry after nursing. It made me very sad. I know my supply is down right now, my pumping sessions have been down for about a week, plus the calendar and my mood swings tell me that I should be starting a "monthly" cycle soon. DS also hasn't had as much solid food today as he usually has at daycare. So logically his needing a bottle makes sense, but emotionally it was still hard to do. DH and DS are in the bedroom now... DS is quiet for a while, then he stirs and cries. DH is holding him in the rocking chair and talking / singing to him quietly. DS may be teething or having a growth spurt, or just going through a "hard to fall asleep" phase. I hope this passes quickly!
Tonight, for the third night in a row, DS has had a very difficult time falling asleep at night. He has fallen asleep for naps okay, both at daycare and at home this weekend. But he has cried a lot and reawoken a lot the past three nights. This evening, after nursing him on both sides 3 times (twice beteen 8 and 9pm, then again after playing for awhile because he wasn't going to sleep), I warmed up a bottle and DH fed it to him. It's the first time that we have given him a bottle because he was still hungry after nursing. It made me very sad. I know my supply is down right now, my pumping sessions have been down for about a week, plus the calendar and my mood swings tell me that I should be starting a "monthly" cycle soon. DS also hasn't had as much solid food today as he usually has at daycare. So logically his needing a bottle makes sense, but emotionally it was still hard to do. DH and DS are in the bedroom now... DS is quiet for a while, then he stirs and cries. DH is holding him in the rocking chair and talking / singing to him quietly. DS may be teething or having a growth spurt, or just going through a "hard to fall asleep" phase. I hope this passes quickly!
Friday, January 10, 2003
Computer problems
Argh! I have to rebuild my handheld computer. :-( I was editing a memo when an alarm went off. Instead of "ok"ing it I tried to set a timer. That caused a "fatal exception" which normally just requires a soft reset. But since my battery was getting low, the soft reset didn't work and I just got random dots on the screen. I put in new batteries and got the Palm OS logo, but it was blinking, which I had never seen before. I tried another soft reset, but the logo kept blinking. The power button did nothing, so I took a battery out. When I put it back in I had a blinking dot in the upper left corner, but at least the logo wasn't blinking anymore. Another soft reset got me back to a blinking logo. After consulting a couple of co-workers, I went with the hard reset which wipes out all of the data. I'm resync'ing now, so I should get everything back except for the calendar entries that I exclude from my desktop at work. I may be able to get them back when I sync up at home tonight.
Moral: replace your PDA's batteries when you start getting the low battery warnings.
Argh! I have to rebuild my handheld computer. :-( I was editing a memo when an alarm went off. Instead of "ok"ing it I tried to set a timer. That caused a "fatal exception" which normally just requires a soft reset. But since my battery was getting low, the soft reset didn't work and I just got random dots on the screen. I put in new batteries and got the Palm OS logo, but it was blinking, which I had never seen before. I tried another soft reset, but the logo kept blinking. The power button did nothing, so I took a battery out. When I put it back in I had a blinking dot in the upper left corner, but at least the logo wasn't blinking anymore. Another soft reset got me back to a blinking logo. After consulting a couple of co-workers, I went with the hard reset which wipes out all of the data. I'm resync'ing now, so I should get everything back except for the calendar entries that I exclude from my desktop at work. I may be able to get them back when I sync up at home tonight.
Moral: replace your PDA's batteries when you start getting the low battery warnings.
Wednesday, January 08, 2003
Transition to crib
Last night DS started out in his crib in his room instead of the cradle in our room. Since his has pulled himself up from sitting to standing once, and can easily reach the top of the side rails on the cradle, it is time to stop using it. I would like to still have him in our room, but I don't think we'll be able to fit the crib in there, even if we took my dresser out. Plus I don't think DH would like that idea too much.
I haven't actually seen him get to a sitting position from laying down, but I would not be surprised if he can already do it. I'm starting to wish for longer times between him going to sleep and waking for a meal. I do still want to bring him to bed and nurse there and stay there, though. For the past couple of nights it has been 4-5 hours before the first night-nursing. Another hour and we can "officially" call it "sleeping through the night". (The experts say that 6 hours should be considered "through the night", even though they also say that infants usually sleep 10-12 hours at night. Hmmm.)
Last night DS started out in his crib in his room instead of the cradle in our room. Since his has pulled himself up from sitting to standing once, and can easily reach the top of the side rails on the cradle, it is time to stop using it. I would like to still have him in our room, but I don't think we'll be able to fit the crib in there, even if we took my dresser out. Plus I don't think DH would like that idea too much.
I haven't actually seen him get to a sitting position from laying down, but I would not be surprised if he can already do it. I'm starting to wish for longer times between him going to sleep and waking for a meal. I do still want to bring him to bed and nurse there and stay there, though. For the past couple of nights it has been 4-5 hours before the first night-nursing. Another hour and we can "officially" call it "sleeping through the night". (The experts say that 6 hours should be considered "through the night", even though they also say that infants usually sleep 10-12 hours at night. Hmmm.)
Monday, January 06, 2003
Saturday, January 04, 2003
Thursday, January 02, 2003
Standing!
DS pulled himself up completely from sitting to standing this evening! He had pulled himself up to his knees several times, and he even got one foot out a few times, but I saw him pull from seated up to two feet using the side railing of his crib this evening. We tried to get him to do it again so Dad could see it, but DS wasn't interested in showing off; he was more interested in letting us know it was time for dinner.
DS pulled himself up completely from sitting to standing this evening! He had pulled himself up to his knees several times, and he even got one foot out a few times, but I saw him pull from seated up to two feet using the side railing of his crib this evening. We tried to get him to do it again so Dad could see it, but DS wasn't interested in showing off; he was more interested in letting us know it was time for dinner.
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