Stroller Option Help

I am debating over a dble jogging stroller or a bike/trailer combo so I am going to ask the www. Here is the info: l could use as much help as possible. If you have opinions or thoughts please leave them or pass this along to anyone that can help We live in an area of town that allows us to walk to produce stands, grocery and drugs stores, restaurants, parks and events. I can load a stroller and get 1/2 way to our destination quicker than loading 2 kids in car seats and waiting for traffic, parking and unloading 2 kids out of car seats. If I got a bike/trailer combo, I could go to the beaches and other areas/events of town that are a bit farther to walk to but not too far to bike to. (i am afraid that walking could take more time than the kids would tolerate)

• I estimate that either choice will equally be about the same monetary commitment.


• How hard is it to pull the kids around in a trailer (my kids only weigh 46 lbs together)


• If I get a bike trailer I want one that can be used as a stroller once I get someplace some times - Is this practical?


• What are downfalls or drawbacks I should know about if you have either.


• What brands to you suggest/not suggest

What else to Do need to consider?

What Child is this

who laid to rest ....

The medicine has been stopped. So has the nig.ht te.rrors and restless nights. I placed this child who resembled my MT to bed tonight when I got home from work and he went in the crib and went to sleep. No fussy no muss ...

MT seems to be back to normal .. Teething like a banshee. (our norm) Runny nose and drool ..It's hard to tell the difference really. I am just so thankful that we are sleeping again. However long it lasts

Sippy Cup - *making sure his lil ears cannot hear me type this 3 rooms away sleeping so I do not jinx this. He purposely drank water out of his sippy cup 4 times today. (4 sips 2 different times) 2 times on our way home after the park playgroup and 2 times while eating lunch. I almost fell OVER. I consider this progress. Hoping this repeats tomorrow and here after so I can stop self inducing fear of dehydration since we live in a warm (read sometimes hot and muggy) climate.

• I walked in the door after work tonight and I swear to you that my child said "Hi" and waved to me.. My husband witnessed this it to. I was floored. I wonder if he will do it again ..
• He has been waving "bye bye" for weeks now. Just not when prompted .. on his terms (as most everything is lately)
• He can clap if he wants to. But only if HE wants to.

My parents have a wooden swing on their porch. MT adores being outside on their porch and swinging. He has always had to sit in someones lap until we discovered a new use for this. We strapped the back/bottom straps to the swing and buckled him in .. oh My Word .. The squeals! He loves it.

Bullets

Technical:

• Has anyone else noticed that blogs they joined to follow way back are having to be re-followed?
• Any opinions on the HTC Touch phones
• Is blogger eating some of your posts?
• Any good advice on a cheap printer? I just need it to print on paper no photos.
• Know any good free software to splice 2 mp3's together for a slideshow?
• I am thinking about sprucing up the blog a bit when things get calmer around here.

Child related:

• We are using this bumper.
• Other than Formula/Breast Milk, What are you putting in your infant/toddlers sippy cups?
• Found any bibs that are good and do not have to be laundered?Amy suggested some good ones, I am waiting to receive those.
• TIP I received today but never thought about - I have been looking for baby/infant Benadryl for a month or more. FYI - You will never could find it. They don;t make it, you have to buy Children's Benadryl. And on the box it says not for children under 2! SO you have to call your ped's office and ask for the dose. Which if you are like me, You may want to have this information. But you may want this info PRIOR to actually needing it. So Go now, Call your ped's office and use a black sharpie and write the dose required on the bottle so when you need it you will not panic! (no we didn't learn this lesson the hard way - Just something that could be dangerous but easily remedied.)
• The crib - Isn't going well for Naps at all. Not in the least. I am still trying but at this point I have actually scaled back the effort a bit because he was hyper-ventilating and crying so hard when entering his room. Ten days ago, he started crying about getting his diaper changed on his changing table. This escalated to freaking out while entering his room. (before even attempting to get changed.) The past few days, He just loses it when he enters his room for anything during the day. Until he realizes that he is not being laid in the crib. Back story - Before we decided to move him to the crib, we played in his room on the floor for about a week. He was then, just crying about laying on the changing table to have his diaper changed. I had read about negative associations and such so I was trying to help. Bedtime - Bedtime is fine. We lay him down, turn on the monitor (love this monitor/for S.IDS - bought it on c.raigslist), hit the button on this toy and tell him "night night". We do end up making 1 more trip back in there usually. He received this lovie from a shower and I use the frog's hand to rub his face until he gets settled/comfy. After that, he takes over rubbing his face and has been falling asleep. So, I'd say, bedtime is fine.
• Anyone have a ko.lcraft contours 3 wheel? Do you like it?

TV

• High School Reunion - I was watching old episodes of this show on TVland I think. Class of 88. Why would anyone put themselves through that mess again? If you were contacted, Would you go? ME - NO FREAKIN WAY! Even if I got a trip to Hawaii. I was watching and one girl was crying to this guy that made her "feel insecure" when they were in high school. Is there anyone that was never insecure atleast once in high school? I actually felt so sorry for the guy that was having to apologize for every guy in High School that made her feel insecure at some point in High School. She was in tears, He was close to it and i was laughing at the whole scenario hoping it was all "tv'd or scripted up". Because WOW. .. I mean, don't get me wrong, HS is not a walk in the park. I know this. I wasn't the coolest. Fa.cebook as the tendency to pull out some of my insecurities. But not sure I would subject myself to all that all over again.
• The Co.ugar - Airs April 15th. Creator of the Bachelor for Over 40's. Who's watching?
• Friday Night Lights? Anyone
• Any thoughts on the recent Grey's Anatomy/Private Practice episodes
• What are you watching
• I admit it, If it's a bad tv show, teenie bopperish or reality program, I will watch at least once. It's an addiction. Like rubbernecking

Carseats .. Leave your opinions please

Thank you everyone for your support on my last post .. we are working through it. I think we have a few compounded reasons for all the mishappenings and slowly but surely we will just get through them all. We have had a pretty fun weekend. And nap/sleeping have been done with ease for now. No more biting .. Thank god because, I am not sure it could take anymore abuse like that for a while.

I measured MT yesterday to make sure that we were still within the limitations on his car seat. He was measuring ~29inches. (not sure what his weight is but it is no where near the 30lbs limit) With him being ~29 inches, I have 1 more inch to go before he outgrows the seat requirements. So I really need to on the ball and order a new car seat. I have been trying to get my husband to help with this decision, but he told me "buy what i wanted" ... GREAT.. too bad We weren't discussing cars, jewelry, or animals ... Not extremely helpful. So, I have some questions that maybe you experts could help me out on.

I know that the brit.ax seems to be a popular choice. The rou.ndabout seems to have a lower height max than the marat.hon by 9 inches. That seems to be the major difference ... Oh and that Money thing. That's about $80 difference depending what website and week it is. But I know there are other car seats besides brit.ax.

Now here is my questions:

Do/Did you use your second car seat until your child is/was 49inches/65lbs?

What I am asking is, in the practical exercise, did you really use your car seat for that long? ~4 yrs for the same child? Is it likely to happen?

I want a safe car seat, I do not want to cut corners on safety, but I want to make sure that I send my money wisely. Consumer reports rates the eve.nflo triump.h line at a higher ranking than the br.itax. (could that be because of the money savings?) The ev.enflo is rank 1 the rou.ndabout is rank 2. The rou.ndabout received a very good for infant belt crash whereas the evenflo received an excellent .. They are $100 difference. This is a big difference. The overall rankings for both are the same score. The ma.rathon is ranked 4th. It only received a good rating in the infant latch crash protection and fair in the infant latch fit in vehicles. (i assume that is because the seat's dimensions are large to accommodate a 65lb'er). The overal mar.athon ranking was 30 points less than the 1-2 ranked.

Ok with all that said. There is a new evenflo symphony that has caught my eye. It's a new car seat that goes from 5-100 lbs. It's pretty new, not a whole lot of positive feedback from it. But it is new ... Anyone else see it? What are ordering, going to order? Have thoughts? What convertible seats are you using? There are tons ... Give me your opinions

The Return

Thank you for the compliments about the wedding - We had a blast.

BUT now - back to reality ... UGHHhhhh..

Laundry is stacked to the ceiling ..... MT thinks he should be held all the time. (product of being on vacation and everyone passing him around like a football and providing him lots of entertainment)

But the worst part ... I am finally having my first "real" period. I say real because I have been having this period for longer than 1 day. The other periods were more like spotting for a few hours. Last week I thought I had a cyst. I had that weird pressure-y/pinchy feeling Like I remember cysts being. I have been complaining about backache for a few days now, yesterday it was really awful. Enough to warrant med's and sleep. I thought I had pulled a muscle. I went to the bathroom and discovered the return of the Aunt no one wants ... and Today..OH today .. Well, It is just like I remember .... UGH the bloating and pain ..I am off to take a hot shower.

Anyone have or ever use one of these?

Kryptonite

I have been stewing on this post for quite some time now. (and like always, it will not come out in the best words or thoughts) These past few months have been a big giant blur mostly. I am enjoying my new title and responsibility. But I will not lie..It is Daunting. I laugh That I thought I was "prepared" (mentally and physically) to care for a newborn. But as they say, there is nothing like hands on training .... 24/7 for the rest of your life. Oops tangent .. back to the point:

Research
I must have researched, researched and researched the research obsessively towards the end of my pregnancy. I was not going to do this, we will not allow this type of product/material, We will do this .... I had my mental list of how to do things and what not to do all prepared and discussed with my husband. I studied up on all these new allergies, vaccines, products, recalls, unsafe items, foods, materials, toxins, germs, chemicals.. the list goes on and on. I swear to you .. I still am going mental over all of "this". I am also quite frustrated and angry about this topic.

I live in the US. You know the land of the free and home of the brave. ... What is free here? Heck Air costs money these days. ..grr tangent .. I need to stick to my point .. My point is that this baby raising has gotten so complicated. Or have we complicated this baby raising? Why am I worried that if I miss a pump (that are using bpa free plastics) I may not have enough milk to provide to my child and he have to ingest that tainted baby formula .... Why should I be thinking about tainted baby formula ... Why am I worried about what type of plastic he puts in his mouth? Why am I worried about the chemicals in his diaper/clothes/blankets/toys? Why am I worried about exposing him to something harmful on a daily basis? Why am i worried that if/when MT gets a fever, I will not be about to find a safe OTC medicine for him w/o having other reactions? Why does it seem that everything on the planet contains some sort of ingredient that is going to harm humans? Why is it financially expensive to be concerned and buy products that are "less harmful" than others .. What does less harmful mean? Why is it mentally expensive to be concerned when I cannot afford to purchase the "less harmful" items because the other items are more economically affordable to the general public? Is there a hierarchy of life based on how deep your pocket is?

I am not an alarmist .. I am not trying to be an alarmist .. I am not trying to cause others to panic and retreat. I am just trying to figure out what in the world we are doing that causes so much harm to everyone. No, I was not born yesterday nor did I fall off a turnip truck. There is no event in my life up to now that has been as life changing as caring for a newborn. It has made me question every part of my being. It re-examines the who, what , where , when , and how's of life to the nth degree and back again. (yes, even though I thought I was prepared)

There is this protective gene that has come out of no where in me .. This protective gene is obsessively googling all types of words and situations. Some days I just throw my hands up in the air and concede. Other days I stand on my soap box and proclaim my distaste for the product makers that create harmful products and vow to not support them but try to never project my convictions or opposition on others ... Other days I turn a blind eye ... It's like having product amnesia some days. What I am saying is, it is freaking exhausting enough doing the daily routines of this new life, why does the world go and muddy it up with all sorts of craptasticly harmful products and write them off as acceptable.. Why are the people who are placed in positions to protect us, not doing their job but still collecting a salary and profit? Are others concerned about this too, what are you/they doing about it? What can i do about it? Am I overly concerned and anxious? If I am not overly concerned, why are the friends and family whispering subtle remarks to each other about my want to use cloth diapers, bpa free bottles, plates, spoons, cups etc? Why do I feel like this is an uphill losing battle at times? Isn't it ok if you aren't concerned about it, why does that make me seem like a 6 eyed alien because I am concerned about it?

As you can see, I have contemplated this for a very long time. I know that most of these are rhetorical questions. I know that many research is years behind and it has taken this long to figure out some of what is and isn't harmful products, behaviors, theories and so on.. .. I know that there will always be something that is harmful and a "less harmful" alternative. I just have to do the best I can with what I have been given. I need to use my over abundance of common sense, creativity and intelligence to do the best job that I can. Until then, you can find me eating my organic, recycled, cardboard circling the block with my recycled tire shoes ..which we will later find out that the wood to make the cardboard was grown in some random location that contains some now detected foreign object that causes us to sprout horns like a unicorn ....

Hodge Podge

1- WARNING TMI Alert- The past week I noticed my nips were getting more and more sore after every pump. I chalked it up to using a new pump. Yesterday I went back to pumping on the symphony. A few pumps into it and I noticed that my left nip started to bleed. I am not sure why but I called E's name and he came over after that I have no real recollection of what happened until I found myself laying in my bed. Apparently, *or obviously) I passed out. It was NOT that much blood at all. it was a teeeny weeny droplet. I am unsure if it was from the pain, the blood, the stress I have been under lately or what. After I was told was happened and collected myself, I drank LOTS Of water and relaxed the rest of the day.
*After a few phone calls, message boards and emails, I have decided it was a combination of the new pump rubbing my skin so I need new bigger horns, and I believe to have yeast. My stored supply may take a dip since I was so traumatized yesterday I didn't pump at all after the big drama. Thank God my husband was home. Please let me and my body be up and running again soon. I am using this .. So We are all purple ..

2- I have this stroller, It is great. I have not had any problems with it. It is definitely a light weight stroller and we enjoy it often .... BUT I keep eyeing this other stroller. I go walking pretty much every day and I can see the lightweight stroller is not made for this type of activity. I am obsessing this one at the moment. Anyone have any comments about this one? Or Suggestions for a good one.

3- My mother is not doing well again. Hormones are evil.. Multiple Dr's still think this was brought on by me.nopau.se. School has started and of course, it had to be an ordeal. They built a new school, she had to re-set up her brand new classroom. No chalkboards and overhead projectors. All new technology and gizmo's. *this is a woman who hates email and computers. So she is overwhelmed trying to learn the new technology .. THEN worse part, They received a new curriculum. She is having to read and do all new curriculum and she is so far overwhelmed she is having panic/anxiety attacks. Once again, we are in the process of weaning her off a med in order to put her on a different (hopefully better) one. The Dr's agreed that she was being over medicated, So they want to bring her dose down so they can start her on a different kind of med. A mood stabilizer. I really do hope she finds comfort in this new drug. I am told that getting her on this new med will take 2 months if all goes well. I am SO not looking forward to me.nopause .. Frankly I am quite scared of what this means for me.

4- We have been using cloth diapers of and on for a week now. I have to say, I am a HUGE fan. We have In.dian prefol.ds and b.umm.is covers , bu,mge.nious 3.0's m and g diapers. My favorite is the bumgenious'. They are expensive for a set up cost, but SUPER absorbent and very durable and easy to clean. I have a few leaks with the g diapers, but that is mostly because of the breastfeeding. It really doesn't seem that taxing to me to wash them. I know lots of people say they are such a pain. I guess you could say they are an inconvenience because you have to carry it around until you get home, but is that really a huge deal?

Well, Laundry is done, dishes are clean, but ti.vo is full.. Going to clear it off and put my feet up

WTF

It's been 16 days since the Old AF .. WTF am I bleeding again?? I haven't taken the mini p.il.l Yet..... Maybe I should? Is the Beoytch making up for lost time? What a lovely way to start the first morning of vacation ...

Mental Note - next time I go on vacation - I will bring the baby monitors .... (or maybe I am a paranoid over protective, smothering mother)

Brain Dump

We have been trying for weeks to catch a smile on camera .. DO you have any idea how hard that is?!?!!? ... Well tonight He just was sooo happy and coo-ing and being all giddy. I thought for sure my husband could get at least one on camera (since i was holding him and I am the main photographer for the family) .. We got the tail end of plenty of them but never the big huge gummy grin that makes my heart sail into utopia. I cannot even begin to describe the feeling I get when I see him smile. It just makes my heart melt. Wanna see?


Here are some other pictures - I have had a few free moments today to play with my software.


MT is his ever loved boppy:


I realized tonight - (well I realized a while ago I just admitted it tonight) there are things that I could have NEVER in a million years imagined that I would be doing as far as my parenting style. We both are very comfortable with having MT in our bed. He does not sleep there alot of hours, He does have a crib and a packnplay but his first morning feeding (5/6 am) He likes to just fall asleep on my chest - and I absolutely love it. Before MT was here, I had big plans ..Huge plans ... Plans that involved Him sleeping IN HIS CRIB, IN his room from the very first night when we got home ... Yah he has napped a few naps in there but Not many ...

Breastfeeding/Pumping - I love it. It works for us. It is hard work but now that I am working on getting more comfortable with breastfeeding - I really do love it. It was painfree until my first period (which my dr says was not a period because it was in the post partum window) I got very sore/senstive ni.pple.s. The residual pain is still there but lessening each day. We only actually breast feed about 3 times a day. I can not tell you HOW AGAINST bF-ing i was. No really .. I was NOT A FAN . It grossed me out, freaked me out, made me jealous, brought up alot of negative, bad, weird feelings. I am now admitting I like it. I know it is not for everyone and I am very ok with that.

There are so many things that I hear myself pre-baby in my house, pre-situation saying and I am still continuing to eat my words hourly/daily.
I have wrote about this before (quite a few times actually) .. I will probably write about it again.

I ordered this new sling , so far,hands down, easiest/best to use. Thanks to Becoming Mom for showing me the site! LOVE IT, MT loves it. It is super convenient and very do-able.



Ok - we are taking MT up to Wis. to see E's Dad's side of the family in a month. To say I am nervous is beyond unstated. I need to find out the airline rules for babies, carseats, liquids, what is considered a liquid, etc all that stuff that is so new to me. Boy I couldn't make a lil road trip for 5 hours ... and now I am putting myself and my child on a plane .. WHy am i So freaked out by all of this? It will/does get easier right? I really need to find some local people that just had a child the same time I did. I think It will do us some good. This is my goal this week!



Tech Support- I want to switch from blo.glines to google r.eader - Is there an import function? Or do I have to start over?? Can anyone help?



So there is my brain dump ... Such I apologize now?

6 Weeks

We are making progress in our BF-ing attempts. The mom group on Friday was such a great, informative, re-assuring experience. I found out that 6 weeks is a transition/growing stage. I was not alone, It will pass ... all music to my ears. I needed to hear that it is normal and expected - I also was given some Ideas and comfort. (thank you for all of you who made suggestions! I did read hap.piest baby on the blo.ck)
We went on a "roadtrip"trip. My Aunt, Uncle and Grandmother flew down to meet MT. We all drove 2.5 hours away yesterday for my sister to see MT. I was beyond nervous - But It went miraculously well and gave me more confidence in the whole leaving the house anxiety. We went and got a gadget that allowed me to power my breastpump in the car. I pumped a few times yesterday in the car - which also gave me more confidence "on the go". It seems like this "all" becoming very managable.

Of Course, I leave you pictures:

More Adjustments

• We are still supplementing feeds with this formula suggested by our pediatrician. 2 days ago we ran out of the ready to eat form and decided to try the powder form. So far so good, except I have decided that it would be best to pre-mix before putting it in his bottles. Since I am using these bottles, trying to find a b*P*A free container to mix the powder formula in has been difficult and involved some creative thinking. I emailed that company in hopes for future customers to not have a hard time finding a b*p*a free formula mixing pitcher. My creativity has not paid off yet but I remembered this product, and tomorrow, I am going to the sporting goods store to purchase one. (this is not product endorsement, I just want to help those that may be in a similar dilemma
• MT had his first boat ride to see fireworks on the 4th. He was so good while we were on the boat. I just put him in my sling and he just hung out. (
  
  click on view all images)
• E is going back to work tomorrow! I am feeling pretty sad about that. He calms me, reassures me and helps out so much. We will figure it out on our own. I will build my confidence level. I will learn to go with my instincts.
• I ran out of size o diapers so I thought I would use the size 1's. They look so huge on him even though we used a size 1 diaper from the hospital. I love the diapers we used in the hospital. They have a yellow indicator line that turns blue when the baby has peed. In the beginning, when it is hard to tell, I loved that feature. I asked the nurse what kind they were and she told me she believed that they were only sold to hospitals.. I finally found the diapers the hospital used.
• We have discovered that MT has super sensitive skin and developed an aversion to his wipes and a chaffed bottom. We have been using wet tp and this diaper cream suggested by my pediatrician. I LOVE it. It has helped clear it up pretty well. It is expensive and I am going to ask on Wednesday about others to use on a day to day basis, or if we even need to do it on a day to day basis.
• His blocked tear duct seems to be doing much better, but now I am worried that his belly button is infected and not healing right.
• We had the best bf'ing latch tonight - YEAH!! He even wanted to bf. He still only wants to suck on one side. (it was the side he usually hates) I switched sides and he cried and cried. BUT he did latch and it was nice!
• Ever since delivery, I have had an involuntary twitch in my left leg. It just does a quick spasm or involuntary twitch once in a while. I am going to ask the dr's about this
• I have found a weird line of lumps where I was alternating sides of injecting the lo.veno.x. E thinks I have an internal bruise, I have stoped using these sides and have gone to different areas until I can get a Dr to look at it.

I am so sure there are other things - I just simply can't remember. I swear I am not product endorsing. I know everyone has different stuff that works for them and their children - this is just what is working for us for now.

Thank you so much for the encouraging emails and comments and prayers/thoughts for my mother. We will get through it, we have gotten through it before - It just takes time and medication until we can get a dr to help us and vice versa.

This is how we roll

Baby A's annoucements where ordered from here.

Tomorrow at 9:45 am ish will be 3 weeks from when my water broke at the peri's office. I can not believe how much time is flying by.

Here he is (i won't make you wait til the end of the post for a pic):

I have an post delivery appointment with My OB today. I am not really sure what to expect. I am sure its an in and out appointment. I am still injecting lo.ven.ox for another 3 weeks. I am sure this is probably why I am going back every 2 weeks instead of waiting the full 6 weeks like most. (because we all know I am THAT/difficult/not normal patient) I am going to ask her if I can start taking my Met again.



I really do feel fantastic. I haven't had many hormonally induced cries like I expected to have. I just love this sweet baby so much. The bleeding has tapered off quite a bit - Which I am way grateful for. Baby A is eating more, so I am having to be very diligent with my pumping to make sure his needs are being met. I am pumping every 2-3 hours to try to up my milk supply. The pump I have (was bought used) and it does not allow me to double pump. I may be going to the hospital tomorrow to see about renting one. I am told that double pumping is the way to go. We'll see.



We haven't ventured out much with Baby A yet. We have ran a few errands. Our laptop died so it was a much to run to the nearest computer store so E could get something to try and fix it (which didn't happen - good thing for a manufactured warranty - a new one is in the mail and should be here shortly) Baby A does love his car seat/stroller for what little outings we have done. I have walked around with him in the sling also - which is his favorite thing I believe. A few friends from college highly suggest a ri.ng slin.g, Anyone know anything about those? I think my friend has one, I may ask to try hers out.



My parents are obsessed. Absolutely must see their grandbaby EVERY day. (which has mostly happened) There have been a few days that I haven't been over there - but they came over here instead. Trying to pump and keep up supply and keep the grandparents happy has been a bit challenging. I am afraid for those that encounter my parents - they can ONLY have Baby A conversations and show everyone their slide shows on their phones and palm pilots .... Sickening Huh ..



I was asked about what products I deem a must have - In all my 3 weeks of parenting, here is my list:



a little spiral notebook to write down the days schedule: I write the date on the top of the page, we count poop and pee diapers, what time and how much we fed him, (sometimes record naps), I also record if he did anything like sucking fingers, eye contact, etc - This helps gage what he did while I was sleeping and when he needs to be fed again etc. It also helps me see if there is a pattern or it may help me indicate irregularities to ask the dr's about.



Diapers - We have gone through ~172 diapers since we have been home. (17 days; about 10/11 diapers a day)



Bottles - (unless you plan on breastfeeding) - i would still consider having 1 or 2 bottles on hand and Formula (if you are nursing or planning on nursing this store is having a sale on nursing bras.)



Bottle Warmer - the cheapest at bru has been awesome for us thus far



Boppy pillow or boppy lounger - It has really been the greatest gift thus far - because A likes to be propped up in it and talk to us. ( buy an extra cover just in case)



A place for your baby to sleep -



I have enjoyed having a changing table and all the necessities in one location. If you have a changing pad, buy 2 covers, one will be in the wash soon ..Trust me



Diaper Genie II & refills- greatest invention!



Blankets & Swaddles - absolutely the greatest. The tighter the wrap the better it seems. It is June in FL. HOT and humid do not begin to describe this kind of weather and this kid loves being wrapped up tight while napping. I didn't receive many blankets and have had to run to the store or send my parents for more blankets (we are using the thermal/waffle ones) They are light and comfy.



Burp Clothes - If you think you have enough - Buy 1 more pack. They are good for just about anything you can think of. (and you don't run out)



Soft wash clothes - This has helped with the blocked tear duct and sponge bathing until his umbilical cord falls off



Alcohol & non stick cotton pads - for umbilical care



Swing - He absolutely Loves it.



Onesies - Baby A does not like to be nekkid- He likes to be clothed. I bought a pack of 10 newborn ones and that has kept us well stocked - because I have to do a lil boy load of laundry about every day anyways it seems



Of course: Camera, patience, an extra hand, lots of love and flexibility. The best part, for me, is figuring it all out. Figuring what works for you (even if the books say it's bad, or scarring, or insert whatever stereotyping here)

Be willing to eat crow, be forgiving to yourself, be patient with yourself (and your significant other) and ask for help when you need it. Enjoy it for what it is and what it isn't.

A real post

I just want to thank all of you for being so kind and encouraging to me about our birth and few weeks with Baby A. It is/has helped so much in getting back on my feet.

So as of late - other than busy, I have been a tad bet reserve in my postings. (getting to that in a minute) Here it is a little over 2 weeks since A has arrived and we are getting along really well. I am being spoiled by my husband's presence. E has taken a month off of work - You have NO EARTHLY IDEA how much of a help this has been. I am not a night owl.. he is. He takes the late shift, I do the day shift. It works out quite well. I get sleep, he gets sleep and A get all his needs met w/o having exhausted care takers. It has/was also a HUGE comfort while trying to tend to my own health and needs after delivery. I think it made my recovery time so short and manageable. I was sore in the mid section (like pulled muscles and a horrible period, etc. for a few days but by the weekend I was feeling pretty darn great - the bleeding is still here but not nearly as bad - just enough to be annoying) Pumping is going well. Baby A is pretty much on a some what of a decent schedule - which helps out with pumping and planning on when I need to do things. (laundry, dinner, errands, dr's appointments, etc.)

I am reading this book and haven't really made it that far into it yet. My landlord swears it made a huge difference for her. She also had a little boy about 8 weeks before me. My next door neighbor growing up also had a baby about 9 weeks ago and suggested I go out and read this book. and a few others, So I started it. Give me a few days to finish it, I may have a post about it.

The reason for this post is to talk about how very timid about posting what I do, haven't done, don't do, need advice on, or help on with Baby A. Just like the insecurities that arise after posting about a BFP. There are insecurities that follow posting about baby's arrival. Just like the BFP, assvice starts flowing. It seems this "mommie" gig is quite more of a competitive sport then the NFL. I can not tell you how many different schools of thoughts there are. Different Opinions there are and how many people are VERY assured their way is the only right way. I am trying to word all of this very delicately. (because I have partook in many "I will never do that to my child , or "How Horrible is that for a child", insert whatever judging statement here) It seems these days there are so many sure fire ways to send your newborn to therapy in years to come if you do not choose the right: bottle, swing, sling, crib, bassinet, clothes, dr, diapers, feeding schedule, breast, formula, carseat, wipe, .. I was told yesterday that Maybe I "didn't use the right kind of alcohol pads on his belly button because it hasn't fallen off yet" ... I thought to myself .. "Did she really just Say that" .... Then my mind started to wonder if there were different or better alcohol pads I should be using ... I mean really .... wasting precious brain powers worrying about alcohol swabs and worrying more.

I am not familiar enough with the parenting after IF, or mommie blogs therefore I am unsure of where to find helpful information that tends to reflect my style of parenting as of yet. I think this is all just stemming from another layer of my insecurities and afraid of more nasty comments. I never thought I would actually be researching or googling "what kind of alcohol pads are the best to use on a newborns belly button" , or "when do you introduce the newborn to a swing, bouncy seat, car ride, grocery store, mall, powdered formula, etc."

Do not get the wrong idea - things here are absolutely fantastic. He is sleeping about 3-4 hours at night, 2-4 hours during the day. He is starting to be more awake and alert during the day and We could not be more happier with the progress we have made from turning our nights/days around. I have breastmilk in the freezer .. I mean things are really trucking along at a very comfortable pace. It's just more transitioning ..It was like going from Treatments to "holy cow 2 lines", now "it's Holy Cow I have a lil bundle of magic and I am in charge .. Now what?!." So far it seems to be a trial by error and eventually it all starts to figure itself out. It is amazing how after only 2 weeks, I know the difference between a hungry cry vs a I just want to be loved on cry vs I am tired of being in this position cry. I am trying to make a pact with myself to allow myself to be confident in the decisions We make for our child so that I can get thicker skin to withstand the Mommie NFL Season because If I don't, It's going to be a long 18+ years. I hope that the next part of this community is just as open-minded and supportive as the first part.

Baby A does have a blocked tear duct. We were told to apply a warm compress on it after naps and massaging it to try and get it to open. The Dr said she would check it again at his next appointment - his 1 month appointment - (in a few weeks) unless we felt it was getting worse - she wanted us to call her and come in sooner.

36 weeks

89% of your pregnancy has passed, there is 11% left to go.




He's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement. At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) -YAH!!





I read somewhere that said the placenta weighs 1/6th of the babies weight. (of course approximates) Did you know that only 5 percent of babies are born on their due date?


Other fetal development that is occurring around week 36 of pregnancy includes the following:

The gums have become rigid
The sucking muscles are now fully developed
The brain is developing rapidly
Your baby is practicing blinking

During this week of pregnancy, your baby may move into its birthing position (if he or she has not already done so). Your healthcare provider will use the term "presentation" to describe the part of your baby that is lying over the cervix and will be delivered first. The most common presentation, occurring in more than 95 percent of deliveries, is vertex, which is when the top of the baby's head is down under the cervix. Other presentations may include breech, transverse, face, shoulder, or brow presentation.


Yesterday I stayed home and we worked on cleaning out the spare bedroom and making it into a baby room. We have everything done except the installed crib and washing of all things clothe and tiny. My father is going to help E put the crib together except he is sick with strep throat and ban from visiting (by me) until he has had 4 days of anti-biotics or until his fever breaks and it's been at least 4 days since a fever. Even if that means 2 weeks from now. (when it's all done i promise pictures)



I am still trying to figure out WHY cleaning has to start with making a bigger mess. Or maybe that's my nesting. I have to start with large projects ... who knows, I thought E was going to go into convulsions when I suggested all things Mini only go in the baby's room. We had to go through OLD OLD OLD OLD boxes that haven't been unpacked from previous moves. They are unpacked now and either thrown out, re-organized, or filed.


I have been swimming every day for the past month and i LOVE IT. Weightless is a fantastic feeling at this point. I have my first NST, cervical exam, and group strep b test Friday at 8:30am. I am hoping all goes well because I have a birthday party and a baby shower to attend Saturday. Plus I do not want to hear things like bed rest because that is the most uncomfortable place in the world for me now. I feel as if i have to pee all the time. I think every now and then Mini grabs my bladder and just squeezes it for fun. I am over driving to work, after these past 2 long weekends I have taken, I realize how much less i swell and how much better i feel when I am not at work. Only a few more weeks. I do not want to start using leave yet. I can make it a few more weeks.


We went to the babiesrthem mega store Saturday and bought it out. Erhm, I mean bought a few items off my registry that I thought I may need. (changing pad/cover, burp cloths, swaddles, a pack of bottles, etc.) I forgot a few items (headrest for the carseat, mat to go under the carseat, hangers, etc), So we will be back there again this week to pick up the remaining items I forgot off my list. I made a list and STILL managed to forget them. In my defense I was experiencing alot of brax.ton hicks and just wanted to sit down.


Thanks for all of the comments on my pictures, My favorite one is the last b&w palm tree pic. I think I am going to get that one blown up and framed.



If you are looking for car seats - Read this.

Show and Tell #2

I have a habit of taking pictures of random signs - Example, Here is a sign we saw hanging in the restroom area of a chain sandwich shoppe. I have no idea what it really means (I was told it's German) .. but use your imagination ... So funny:


Weekend Update - Pword talk beyond

We are back from E's brother's graduation. It was one of the best high school graduation's I have been to in FL outside on the football field. It was breezy weather (which helped SO MUCH), the speakers were not long winded about nothing, it was short and concise. We made it back in town in time to pick up my new crib and a few items that i needed from the massive baby store. My house looks as if it has had an explosion from all of these gifts and I am now feeling the nesting/organizing bug coming on STRONG. I was in the pool tonight discussion with E our plans for cleaning out the closet tonight. Yes , It's after 10pm and we will be doing this lil project tonight ... I am nesting like mad ... I am also planning on my friend taking pictures of us tomorrow at the beach (where we took our engagement pictures) for semi-nice professional belly/maternity pictures. I experienced a few more brax.ton hicks contractions today that I would like to admit. I think it is getting super warm, I walked around the massive baby store too long and needed water. Hopefully next week I will have Beach Pictures to show.

More information than you wanted to know

My work shower was great fun: Look at the cake - SO CUTE! It seems we only need a few minor items from our registry plus a swing and a car seat. We are still waiting the S-MIL on the carseat but she has made arrangements so it should be resolved soon. We are dealing with a discontinued color item .... It will work out. I am not worried

The dr's office and pharmacy were finally able to communicate to each other in the same language and get me syringes that require me to only have 2 shots of hep.arin a day instead of 4 shots. (2 in the am, 2 in the pm due to too small of syringes ordered) YEAH for that - Hopefully I will bruise much less.

We are going to watch E's brother graduate from High School tonight. We should be back tomorrow afternoon. There will be some serious work being done in the soon to not be guest room.

I am finding myself going to the restroom SO MUCH more. I had a few weird/painful "OMG, I have to pee NOW" moments this week. I assume baby is dropping more and using my bladder as a cushion, boxing prop, pillow, head rest ... aka WOW that is really uncomfortable.

I was tagged by SuessGirl:

A - Attached or Single: Attached
B - Best Friend(s): E
C - Cake or Pie: Cake
D - Day of Choice: Saturday
E - Essential Item: Cellphone
F - Favorite Color(s): Pink,Purple
G - Gummy Bears or Worms: Gummy Bears
H - Hometown: Tarpon Springs
I - Indulgence(s): TV and Sleep
J - January or July: July ( that's my birthday month)
K - Kids: Yes, please.
L - Life is incomplete without: Family and pets
M - Marriage Date: 08/2002
N - Number of Siblings: 1 younger sister
O - Oranges or Apples: Oranges
P- Phobias or Fears: snakes, i fear the unknown
Q - Quote: ""Your true value depends entirely on what you are compared with." - Bob Wells
R- Ring size: 8
S - Season: Summer (I live in a hot state, It's the only season i Know)
T- Tag 3 Friends: i tag anyone that wants to participate
U - Unknown fact about me: I was a member of our drill/color guard team in High School
V - Very favorite stores: Target, Borders, stores with purses
W - Worst Habit: Biting my nails
X-ray or Ultrasound: I have had plenty of both
Y - Your Favorite Food(s): Cheeseburgers and steak from a grill
Z - Zodiac: Cancer

Cruisin'

Dr's appointment (skip to the red to avoid all baby chat)

We saw a different OB in the practice today. I really liked her. No trace of anything bad in my urine, down 3 more lbs., no swelling, BP 144/90 ??!!!! Apparently, The nurse took it wrong .. I swear she did. I have a sinus/head cold/snot fest going on. But 144/90 ??!!?! I started to panic alil. We discussed my fundal height still measuring 1.5 weeks ahead but we figured out why - I go to my visits when I am almost into the next week. Like today was a 34 week appointment but I am 34w 4d. measuring at 36 weeks. Not so terrible. She doesn't think the baby is as large as the mfm predictions?!? ok?! She is going to discuss the met/gly.bu.ride with the other dr's and maybe have a phone consult with my mfm. All but my fasting reads are great so I get to cut out the 2 day testings. I will test the Fasting read (am) and 2 hours after dinner read (pm). She checked for swelling today and I have none - She said I was on cruise control and that at my next appoint (June 6th) we will do NST's and a dr appointment. I told her that I have my nst's all set up, she was very happy about that - called in the nurse to take my bp again and it was 112/64. I really think she took it wrong the first time. There was only 10 mins in between reads and the dr had me laying down and sitting up a few times in between those times. So She said that I am on cruise control. Feeling much better.



-preparing for baby items-
For those preparing for baby- I bought a book to go by. They also have a website i follow. 2 days ago I saw this. (basically a " safety issue" with the crib manufacture we bought. I was not pleased and tried to contact the maker myself but they just had a generic recording. I do not want to chance anything - so we returned ours today (see procrastinating paid off because it was still in the box-if it was out of the box i could not have returned it). We did end up buying a much more expensive crib - but It was a good choice. It should be here in less than 14 days .. Cross your fingers and hold your breath. My dad went with us, he found a cradle he liked (for his house - made by the same crib manufacture-, I didn't argue - So he bought it and plans on sending my mother back up and letting her pick out bedding and such. He is just so excited about our boy - I know he really wanted a boy and he raised 2 girls who know how to change tires, know the names of tools and how to use them, had a basketball hoop - all while wearing pink girlie outfits ;)

A few days ago, My father and husband got rid of my pet turtle. I knew they were going to, I told them both if they felt strongly about Mr Turtle going I would respect their wishes just do it and not tell me about it. Mr Turtle has been around for about 10yrs now. He was my college pet and has grown quite large over the yrs. He is a yellow bellied turtle. There is a pond next to my parent's neighborhood - so he now resides over there. I had a good cry after I found out he was gone - but I understand their concerns. He was in the room that shall soon have another purpose then a guest room. Although - they pissed off my cat royally. My cat used to lay in the fish tank and play with him. My cat was the one that told on them. I came home and she was meowing/crying like something was wrong. She would sit at the guest room door and look in the corner and just meow her lil heart out. I looked and Mr Turtle was gone and She was letting me know. So funny yet so sad. Here is a pic of Mr Turtle and his new home:

Well, I am off to prepare for a house full of company this weekend. We are celebrating E's birthday tomorrow at my parents house with friends. Should be alot of fun! I hope everyone is doing well

booties, bibs, diapers oh My !

My shower was fantastic. It was very enjoyable and yet I found myself very awkward and sometimes stoic. I don’t know why, but when I get in a room full of people, I become awkward if the event is for me. I wish I had pictures to post as promised. I am waiting or my friend to give me a copy of them – I will post them soon. My Step MIL is waiting to see them too. I am really looking forward in seeing them myself. I haven’t seen um yet either.

It was a brunch spread: pigs in blankets, muffins, bagels, fruit salad and this cake:

We played a few games then I opened presents. I received so many nice gifts. It was really wonderful. Bath tub, wipes, bibs, stroller, high chair, clothes, and more clothes, hangers, gift cards, pack and play, bouncy seat, wash clothes, towel, butt paste, et. al. My 4yr old SIL (insert laugh here) helped me open the presents. It was nice but then she got going too fast and I didn’t have a chance to enjoy each gift –for trying to get her to stop opening another gift before we read the card to see who it was from.

A friend of mine made this really awesome diaper cake. I can’t wait to post a picture of that. I thought it was just super cute. I LOVED it!!

I did wear the black dress but I went a got a blue bow instead of the pink one. I actually matched my mother. (Unplanned but hilarious). Um did I mention that I forgot to plan for shoes? I got dressed and realized that I had no black flats … So I wore flip-flops until I got to my mother’s house – took off the shoes it went bare foot. Oh how my southern grandmother would have not been proud …

My MIL came Friday night and was supposed to leave after the shower decided to stay until Sunday. (so I missed the Fl Bloggers Get together and I was highly bummed out) My husband had to work the whole weekend so this was really the only time we have not had a buffer. I have to admit – as annoying as it was- she is a kind hearted lady and sometimes I do not give her the benefit of the doubt. I did have to endure all 9 birthing stories from all her kids, listen to her talk about how drugs “only slow things down and lead to c-sections and cause major complications” (this has been a common mis-information in my life recently) All you brave women who do not/did not want/have/had drugs – more power to you. I just want to make sure I am aware of all my options. It was semi-nice to hang out with her and her girls (15 and 4). The 4yr old still drives me batty because she is just so undisciplined, all over the place, and manipulative and mom lets her get away with murder. I shouldn’t complain too much because on Saturday Night and Sunday morning – they cleaned my entire house. Vacuumed, dusted, washed dishes, scrubbed toilets, sinks and tubs. THAT was a great gift- because I have been slacking on the cleaning department lately.

As soon as I get pictures, I will post them. I have realized that I am still having a hard time imagining needing all the items from my shower. I am having a hard time imagining that I am going to have a baby that is going to require the stuff i have accumulating in my spare bedroom. I wish I knew how to explain it better. It just hasn't hit me yet. I am hoping my SMil is sending that carseat like she said she was going to ... we are still waiting

27 weeks

At 27 weeks, your baby's length will have tripled or quadrupled from the 14 week mark. If your baby is born this week, the chances of survival is now at least 80 percent. However, serious complications are still possible. (according to that website - they consider 27w the start of the 3rd trimester) Another website stated that there is a 85% survival birth rate at 27 weeks- Regardless, either stat is good to read. I'd like to make it farther along still, But this info is good to have in the back of your mind. I also read that any rhythmic movement you may be feeling could be associated with a case of the hiccups. These are common this week and throughout the rest of your pregnancy. Your baby can have them but it will be breathing in amniotic fluid rather than air.

I must admit starting a few days ago, I feel I look HUGE and uncomfortable.

After last growth scan w/ the MFM, I panicked. Hearing about leap year and moving my due date up 1 day sent me into a full fledged panic attack. I know that is only 24 hours. It's insignificant, but in my head it was a WHOLE different MONTH ..ya know June IS before July ..... I didn't say I was rational. It wasn't so much the actual due date day being moved up as much as it was a realization that things were coming and sooner than I had allowed my brain to think about. Up until that moment, I was still waiting for the "but" of the situation. Hearing the dr's words made me realize that this IS happening ... Really happening .... and I have not taken time to consider how little time we do have left. I was/am too busy enjoying the now and how far we have gotten verses possibly preparing for the finish line in this pregnancy with a start of a new life to care/provide for.

I have heard of pregnant women having this one defining moment in their pregnancy when they realize that their pregnancy is going to result in a baby and how things are going to be real in just a matter of time. I had that "moment" last week also after that appointment. Things just seemed very Real. Seeing/imagining actually delivering our child. Followed by overwhelming feelings of inadequecy and unpreparedness. It's hard to describe. It wasn't like my ususal fairytale daydreams, or the preconceived notions of the "When I am pregnant, I will do This", nor was it an "ah ha" enlightening moment, It was a "Oh $hit moment" ..It was a bit of reality check for me. Because I am pregnant. It's no longer a when like I fantisized about. and There is MUCH more reality that I had ever considered.
I have been pregnant longer than I have left to be pregnant. .. Think about that. It's spooky.

This thinking sent me in a tailspin. I started trying to have all plans "figured out". I wanted to nail down a shower date .. (yes me - the one that wasn't sure she wanted a shower) I wanted to have all our plans made so we could have a commitment free month of June. *because april and may are completely over stuffed months for us with family birthdays, graduations and other family obligations* I pointed out that, E only has 6 more non working weekends to help me get the nursery set up. Out of those 6 non working weekends, only 2 completely open weekends that can be dedicated to getting all the house/nursery stuff done in time for June 30th. Only 1 of those weekend are after my shower. (e works every other weekend) I thought I had plenty of time. Where did it all go?

Related to getting the nursery getting ready, I have googled changing table more times than I would like to admit. I knew that when I bought just a crib, I was giving up my original ideal "plan"to buy a whole bedroom suite. I figured I could find the additional pieces "later". Last week, I felt like there was no more time for saying things like "later". This weekend, we found a great dresser/changing table combo at a local baby furniture store. It will be at my house by the end of the day today. Now, I really need to start cleaning out that room. My MIL will be here this upcoming week and she will need to stay in there - so we have to make a plan to get that room livable by Sunday. Can you tell Time slipped up on me?

I feel like I have such a long way to go, yet I have come so far. It's a Push me, Pull you kind of feeling. Maybe it's due to my lack there of sleeping.
Our sleeping habits are about to change. I have noticed a bit of swelling towards the end of my very long days and I want to make every effort to lay one my left side. I am now starting to have a hard time staying on my left side on my side of the bed. E sleeps on his right side - which means with me on my left, we are facing eachother and it just creeps me out. I can't sleep like that. It feels like someone is staring at you while you try to sleep. So as of last night, I requested that we change sides. Plus his side is closer to the bathroom.

Speaking of the bathroom, I am waking up about 3 times a night, 11 ish, 2 ish and 4 ish. Sometimes not always 3 times but always 2 times: 2 and 4 seem to be very consistant wake up times.

Please please please know that NONE of this is complaining. These are all just things according to me. I am trying to take in as much of this journey as I can. I am taking it in for what it is worth and documenting my experiences with this pregnancy after IF/losses. It may be helpful - it may not but I do not intend for it to be harmful.

25 weeks

60% of the way there and 105 Days to go - Mini is the size of an eggplant. I also read somewhere that my uterus is the size of a soccer ball. Thank you very much - way to make me feel sexy huh? Also Mini has been kicking or dancing alot more. It feels like I have Flipper in my belly practicing the backwards dolphin swim. I get weekly updates from here.
This was what I received Sunday regarding 25 weeks about dental hygiene: "Want to keep your baby safely inside you until term? Put your dental floss where your mouth is. Surprisingly, research links good oral hygiene with longer pregnancies. Sounds crazy — doesn't it? Crazy, but true. Something as simple as brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly can reduce the risk of g.ingivi.tis — a common condition in which your gums become inflamed, red, and even begin to bleed. Untreated gi.ngivi.tis (that's where the regular dental checkups come in) can progress to peri.odontit.is — a more serious infection of the teeth — which has been linked to pre.matu.re bir.th and even an increased risk of pr.eeclam.psia. Keep on top of your teeth, and that old (untrue) wives' tale — the one that claims that a woman loses a tooth with each pregnancy — can finally be put to rest." - Good to know- thought I'd pass it along.

Mini's development - "The spine is strengthening this week, as the joints, ligaments, and rings form to protect the spinal cord from any injury. The blood vessels in the lungs develop, in preparation for breathing. Your baby’s eyes can open and close now, and they will react to light. His mouth is developing in preparation for the sucking reflex, as well as for swallowing. His nostrils are opening this week, and he may even be able to smell. He is already practicing walking, as his feet pedal up against your uterine wall. With all his twisting and turning, it’s amazing that the umbilical cord remains uncompromised. The umbilical cord is built to sustain life even through all the twists and turns of your baby, as its tough anti-knotting capabilities keep it well intact." I also read the the nostril is opening and breathing is being practiced.

OK TMI inserted here - I am not sure exactly when it happened but reading Hilary's post today made me remember that some where along the lines, my ni.pp.les are the size of small pancakes. Let's not forget that they are as dark brown as i have ever seen. There are some weird things going on there. Size and colors aren't the only thing. This past week, they hurt very bad. They are insanely sensitive and throb. It's very uncomfortable. It's not constant, it tends to come and go in waves. Ok sorry !

Thank you for all the compliments on the crib. I tell ya, I never knew all these decisions and choices were so hard. (or maybe they are hard because of too many choices) I forgot to post the pictures I ordered off e.ts.y. Here is the link. We aren't painting the room. The room is actually pretty close to the color of the walls in the crib picture. Instead we decided to decorate by adding paintings and wall hangings and furniture. We are contemplating a blue/green changing table or dresser. I found a website to order wall letters from. There are 2 that I really like and I can not decide which on to go with. I am going to ask a few friends later to see what their opinion is. If we can't decide, I will post them here and do a poll.

Thank you all for being kind and patient with all the baby prep talk and week update. I do not know if I am able to communicate properly how all of this feels to me. It is very therapeutic, but in the same sense, it's extremely overwhelming and alarming. I still feel like I am just in a very long cycle preparing for something that seems to be out of my reach. But so close i can taste it. I have no idea if that makes any sense what -so- ever. I still recognize the bitterness that I carry around with me at times. Sometimes, It comes out of my mouth and into the open where I have to deal with it - or be confronted by it. Sometimes, it stays in the depths of my mind only to torture me and my thoughts. I feel I am getting more excited every week and i find new fears as well.