Ummm - NO.
We haven't.
Are you going to try one soon???
Ummm - Not sure. We're in no rush.
Now, if you want more of an explanation - here it is, briefly. When Camden was a baby, I went back to work part-time (just a few hours a day, a few days a week) when he was three months old. It wasn't long enough to pump, so he just got a bottle during those times, which wasn't much at all. But then at six months old, my milk went away. Was it because of the missed feedings and getting a bottle every now and then? I don't know. But I know I tried everything I could (and everything that was suggested by "professionals") to keep my supply going. Tried pumping - and nothing would be accomplished after way too much time with a pump. Tried feeding more often. Tried it all! It was a difficult time, and in the end, my milk was just gone. I was devasted - totally not ready to give up nursing. Thankfully Camden had no difficulty - it was just Mommy. That's not something one enjoys being forced to give up.
This time around, I'm doing everything in my power to NOT have that happen again. If that means I exclusively breastfeed, so be it. I don't mind. (Yes, it can make other things in life a little more difficult at times, but it's worth it.) We may offer him pumped milk in a bottle eventually, but we don't know when that will be. And we're ok with that. Ryan is on board with this and very supportive. In fact, we don't even HAVE a bottle in the house for him! (Ok, I picked out the kind I want, but the store didn't have the size we needed. It was just in case, anyway, so we're in no hurry to get it.)
Nursing is such an amazing experience - many of you know that and understand the bond that develops and how special that time is. Being able to nurse is something I certainly don't take for granted. Plus, it's so beneficial to the baby, and I intend to nurse Aiden as long as possible.
Just thought I would bring this up b/c some inquiring minds have wanted to know. And I'm sure more will ask. Many understand and even agree, and I'm sure some do not. That's ok (just keep it to yourselves, please). :) But if you want to encourage, comment away!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Day Off
Camden had a teacher workday this past Friday, so Ryan took the day off, and we planned on doing something fun with Camden. The plan was to go to Ganyard Hill Farm for some pumpkin picking, hayriding, corn-mazing, and lots of other things... But then the night before, the weather forcast was for Friday to be pretty hot in the 80's. So, we changed our plans to going to the Durham Museum of Life and Science - so we could be inside, esp since we would have Aiden. He has been wanting to go back there for a while, and we'll do the farm on a weekend soon when it's a little cooler. We had a lot of fun and got to do almost everything.
We ran out of time to do all of the things in the Catch the Wind exhibit (which is where I suggested we START, but no.....nobody listened to that until it was too late). Therefore, we didn't get to go up in the Ornithopter or do most of the other activities, other than guide the small sailboats. Camden really wanted to explore more of this area after he saw what it was (me telling him earlier didn't convince him...). We know where to start next time!!
Here are the pictures from our day:
We ran out of time to do all of the things in the Catch the Wind exhibit (which is where I suggested we START, but no.....nobody listened to that until it was too late). Therefore, we didn't get to go up in the Ornithopter or do most of the other activities, other than guide the small sailboats. Camden really wanted to explore more of this area after he saw what it was (me telling him earlier didn't convince him...). We know where to start next time!!
Here are the pictures from our day:
 |
| Durham Museum of Life and Science (Oct 10, 2008) |
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
TWO months old - and SHOTS!!!
Aiden turned two months old yesterday (wow!). Here are his two-month pics.
We had his check-up today where he got his first shot! We are using an alternative schedule of immunizations, so he hasn't had any shots yet and got less than most would at this visit. He'll still get all of the shots - just on a different schedule. During this visit, he got one shot and one oral vaccination. The oral - he hated (even though the nurse said it's very sweet and babies love it). After a couple drops, he started coughing, and I warned her that if he was coughing, he was likely to spit it up - after which he proceeded to do so. The rest stayed down, though. The shot was horrible for all involved, of course. He cried and cried. I got tears in my eyes. Ryan didn't - and I told him I would write that in the baby book so Aiden knew he was mean (just kidding!). I got to be the savior and nursed him right after the shots - he fell right to sleep and did really well the rest of the day.
Aiden is now 13lbs, 7oz and is 22.5 inches long. He's GROWING!!!
And in many ways... These days he talks to us quite a bit. He's a morning person for sure (morning for him being anywhere between 8 and 11am), talking to me lots while we change his diaper and clothes. Sometimes he tries to talk to me while he's nursing... He'll look up at me, smile, and start to coo. I try to tell him it's time to eat, not play, but then I can't help but return the smile (and then we just decide we'll play and eat later!). He smiles a lot, especially at his star next to his changing station. He has learned how to make the toys on his bouncy seat move by kicking his legs. He's able to go to sleep for some of his naps (and go back to sleep if he wakes) on his own - no fussing. :) (Sometimes - not always - but it's still wonderful that he's learning to do so!) He still sleeps a lot - about the same # of hours as when he first came home. But more of it is at night. He goes to bed anywhere between 8 and 10-something (depending on naptime - and the later time is usually after he's been asleep and we wake him to change into bed clothes). He'll then typically only get up around 2-3, again at 5, and then sometime between 6-7 (then he's back to sleep until later in the morning). So, some would say he's really only waking up twice in the middle of the night (depending on how you look at it!).
There's so much more, and it's just amazing watching him grow and learn so much everyday!!
We had his check-up today where he got his first shot! We are using an alternative schedule of immunizations, so he hasn't had any shots yet and got less than most would at this visit. He'll still get all of the shots - just on a different schedule. During this visit, he got one shot and one oral vaccination. The oral - he hated (even though the nurse said it's very sweet and babies love it). After a couple drops, he started coughing, and I warned her that if he was coughing, he was likely to spit it up - after which he proceeded to do so. The rest stayed down, though. The shot was horrible for all involved, of course. He cried and cried. I got tears in my eyes. Ryan didn't - and I told him I would write that in the baby book so Aiden knew he was mean (just kidding!). I got to be the savior and nursed him right after the shots - he fell right to sleep and did really well the rest of the day.
Aiden is now 13lbs, 7oz and is 22.5 inches long. He's GROWING!!!
And in many ways... These days he talks to us quite a bit. He's a morning person for sure (morning for him being anywhere between 8 and 11am), talking to me lots while we change his diaper and clothes. Sometimes he tries to talk to me while he's nursing... He'll look up at me, smile, and start to coo. I try to tell him it's time to eat, not play, but then I can't help but return the smile (and then we just decide we'll play and eat later!). He smiles a lot, especially at his star next to his changing station. He has learned how to make the toys on his bouncy seat move by kicking his legs. He's able to go to sleep for some of his naps (and go back to sleep if he wakes) on his own - no fussing. :) (Sometimes - not always - but it's still wonderful that he's learning to do so!) He still sleeps a lot - about the same # of hours as when he first came home. But more of it is at night. He goes to bed anywhere between 8 and 10-something (depending on naptime - and the later time is usually after he's been asleep and we wake him to change into bed clothes). He'll then typically only get up around 2-3, again at 5, and then sometime between 6-7 (then he's back to sleep until later in the morning). So, some would say he's really only waking up twice in the middle of the night (depending on how you look at it!).
There's so much more, and it's just amazing watching him grow and learn so much everyday!!
Visitors!!!
Saturday was a big day for us!! After the soccer game, we went to Chapel Hill to visit some friends and their new baby boy, born exactly six weeks after Aiden. What a cutie he was!!
A (very blurry) picture of Kate with Baby Brent and me with Aiden (and Camden in the background there!)
After that, OUR visitors arrived - my mom and grandmother. We have two Mammaws in our home this week. :) It's been great having them here and spending the time together. We've done some shopping, cooking, and lots of other things.
I'm also learning how to cook (and eat! Haha!) some veggies that I haven't had in a long time or just never liked but have determined to like now. So both Mammaws are teaching me how to pickle beets (because I haven't had them in years like I like them - and now I know how to make them!), different ways to cook zucchini (because I always hated the stuff but I know it's good for you) and sweet potatoes (because Ryan and I decided recently we have got to learn to like them) and winter squashes, among other things... I joked to my mom - Why didn't you teach me this stuff when I lived at home??? Ha. She always had this kind of food - I just didn't like any of it or didn't pay attention! I guess I've grown up, huh?
Here are some pics from the visit so far...
Mammaw Gerry, Mammaw Melly w/ Aiden, and Mommy
Walking home after getting Camden from school
Aiden with his cool shades on the walk home (had to wait until he was asleep to get them on, and he still moved his head around to shake them off!!)
A (very blurry) picture of Kate with Baby Brent and me with Aiden (and Camden in the background there!)
After that, OUR visitors arrived - my mom and grandmother. We have two Mammaws in our home this week. :) It's been great having them here and spending the time together. We've done some shopping, cooking, and lots of other things.
I'm also learning how to cook (and eat! Haha!) some veggies that I haven't had in a long time or just never liked but have determined to like now. So both Mammaws are teaching me how to pickle beets (because I haven't had them in years like I like them - and now I know how to make them!), different ways to cook zucchini (because I always hated the stuff but I know it's good for you) and sweet potatoes (because Ryan and I decided recently we have got to learn to like them) and winter squashes, among other things... I joked to my mom - Why didn't you teach me this stuff when I lived at home??? Ha. She always had this kind of food - I just didn't like any of it or didn't pay attention! I guess I've grown up, huh?
Here are some pics from the visit so far...
Mammaw Gerry, Mammaw Melly w/ Aiden, and Mommy
Walking home after getting Camden from school
Aiden with his cool shades on the walk home (had to wait until he was asleep to get them on, and he still moved his head around to shake them off!!)
Saturday Pictures
Saturday Camden had a soccer game - their first of the season that they actually didn't win. (It was a tie.) We got a couple good shots of Camden playing and shots of Aiden in Daddy's arms during the game.
Side note... Aiden is definitely a momma's boy - mostly because I have the one thing he wants the most and that comforts him the most (momma's milk). He hardly lets Ryan hold him when he is tired, cranky, or upset for whatever reason. But today, he actually let him hold him and fell asleep in his arms. First, he spit up all over me under the nursing cover.......on the bra, the inside of my shirt, on my pants, everywhere. Only a tiny bit got on him, of course. This boy doesn't spit up much, but when he does - it's BIG. It's usually from eating for comfort (when his belly is already full) or because he coughed and got choked up. This time he was nursing for comfort, I suppose. Anyway, here are some great shots we got that afternoon... Hope you enjoy!
Before the (apparently comfort) nursing
Side note... Aiden is definitely a momma's boy - mostly because I have the one thing he wants the most and that comforts him the most (momma's milk). He hardly lets Ryan hold him when he is tired, cranky, or upset for whatever reason. But today, he actually let him hold him and fell asleep in his arms. First, he spit up all over me under the nursing cover.......on the bra, the inside of my shirt, on my pants, everywhere. Only a tiny bit got on him, of course. This boy doesn't spit up much, but when he does - it's BIG. It's usually from eating for comfort (when his belly is already full) or because he coughed and got choked up. This time he was nursing for comfort, I suppose. Anyway, here are some great shots we got that afternoon... Hope you enjoy!
Before the (apparently comfort) nursing
In Daddy's arms
Friday, October 3, 2008
Brotherly Love
Camden is crazy about his baby brother!!! How do I know? For one, he asks to hold him ALL the time! He wants to do so much to help out and play with him. In the car, when Aiden fusses, Camden will stroke his head and try to calm him by shushing or even singing. The singing thing is big b/c he doesn't like to let people hear him sing. We had told him that Aiden loves to be sung to and doesn't care what anyone's voice really sounds like - he still likes it. Yet, Camden still wouldn't do it b/c he didn't want US hearing him, I guess. But now he will. He does it softly, but he does it. :)
Another big way to know how much he loves him? When we take pictures of Camden, we're usually saying "No, that's a fake smile. Can you give us a real smile? Please! Camden - come on..." But check out this picture...taken with no requests for any kind of smile..........
Another big way to know how much he loves him? When we take pictures of Camden, we're usually saying "No, that's a fake smile. Can you give us a real smile? Please! Camden - come on..." But check out this picture...taken with no requests for any kind of smile..........
See what I mean? He's crazy about him!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
My Little Cuddler
Lately Aiden's been doing this new thing when he wants to go to sleep. If I'm holding him up with his head on my shoulder or chest (usually after he's eaten, has fallen asleep, and is being burped - b/c he doesn't normally fall asleep in this position) he nuzzles around until his face is up against my throat under my chin, so it's kind of hidden. It takes him a while to get it exactly where he wants it, so he's just wiggling his head all around for a while, rubbing his face against me. Kind of funny, and sometimes I can't help but thinking kid, what are you doing?
When he's nursing and falling asleep, he'll try to turn his head so that his face is in the crook of my arm, against my elbow - in that little space so that his face is pretty much hidden. Sometimes he tries to take a part of me along with him since he's still eating, and I explain to him that it doesn't go with him.... But he doesn't always get the message. When he's done, he'll just bend back, nuzzle around until he's just right and fall asleep.
It's really quite cute, especially to have him nuzzling up against me so much, finding a place on my body that suits him just right and makes him so comfortable.
When he's nursing and falling asleep, he'll try to turn his head so that his face is in the crook of my arm, against my elbow - in that little space so that his face is pretty much hidden. Sometimes he tries to take a part of me along with him since he's still eating, and I explain to him that it doesn't go with him.... But he doesn't always get the message. When he's done, he'll just bend back, nuzzle around until he's just right and fall asleep.
It's really quite cute, especially to have him nuzzling up against me so much, finding a place on my body that suits him just right and makes him so comfortable.
Umbrella (Christ Remix)
Gotta see this. It's pretty awesome.
(If you're reading this with Google Reader - you'll have to go to the blog to see the video. It's not showing up on reader for some reason...)
(If you're reading this with Google Reader - you'll have to go to the blog to see the video. It's not showing up on reader for some reason...)
Monday, September 29, 2008
Product Reviews
So, I'm huge on product reviews. I read a bunch before buying things b/c I like to know what I'm getting (and I can be known for returning things after I buy them, too....). Like to do my research, even on the little things. In the baby world, there are a million "must have" products, and here is my take on a few of them...
Kiddopotamus SwaddleMe Wrap - This thing is definitely worth it. I wasn't sure at first, and we had gotten swaddling with regular blankets down to a science. But I tried it out one night and haven't gone back. Much quicker and you can change a diaper without unwrapping. Aiden's hands can get out in the morning with some good wiggling, but that doesn't happen often. And with a swaddled blanket, if we didn't get to him quick enough when he was fussing and waking up, he could loosen up the blankets some anyway. So this IS a must-have.
My Brest Friend nursing pillow - Sounds good in theory and maybe it works for some, but I didn't need it. After reading so many wonderful reviews, I got it. I only used it a couple times. To me, I didn't like that Aiden had to lie flat on it. I hold him with his head higher than his feet most times. And my torso isn't that long, so I didn't really need that much height. I have to hold him up sometimes, but I didn't need the pillow. After it sat around for a couple weeks, I returned it. You could tell it had not been used. Definitely NOT a must-have.
Playard with Vibration - We use this a LOT! When we put him down, if he wakes up or isn't quite asleep when we lie him down, we push the vibrate button, and it works wonders! (We don't wait for him to fuss, we can tell when he might need it, and if we wait until he fusses, it's too late for this to help.) It lasts quite a few minutes. The low hum from the vibration and the feeling itself really helps him drift back to sleep. And the remote control to it that I thought was a little much - another big help. I have it next to my pillow in bed, and it comes in really handy some mornings when I can tell he's not really ready to wake up yet. A huge must-have!
Gdiapers - These things are awesome!! They're like a mix between cloth and disposable and are
being called the "greenest" diapering option. The outside pant is cloth with a waterproof liner on the inside. In that goes a flushable insert - that you can flush!, compost, or throw away. And it only takes a couple months to be absorbed into the earth (versus the 500 years a disposable is in a landfill!). We haven't had any poopy blowouts like you do with disposables, either. (That's one comment that you constantly hear about gdiapers - no blowouts!) I have often opened up the diaper and been so thankful we had gdiapers once I saw what was being held inside there... Haha! These - a MUST, MUST have. Plus, they're super-cute! And not really more expensive than disposables, just more up-front cost but it evens out. Interested? Intrigued? Learn more at gdiapers.com or ask me! :)
Crib - Well, this is one thing we didn't need right away, though we definitely need. We still have Aiden in the bedroom in a bassinette at night. And during the day, we usually have him nap in the playard bassinette. We are just now starting to do naps in the crib, and he's almost 8 weeks. He'll be in our room at night for a while still.
Pacifier - Another thing that WE apparently didn't really need! This child just does NOT like them! He was taking the soothie for a little bit, but he has downright refused it for the past couple weeks. Once, he almost took it and as soon as it was in his mouth all the way, he gave this look of disgust and pushed it out. He looks like he's actually offended when we try to offer it - like how dare we do such a thing. I guess nothing is as good as mommy (and more importantly momma's milk). That's what he really wants - even if he's just tired and needs to fall asleep. We'll have to watch this eventually, but for now, I'm happy to give in and be a pacifier. It helps him feel secure with me and bond, and that's more important than me refusing b/c he's not actually hungry.
Not a must-have for us - not yet anyway.
Koala Baby blankets - These are from Babies R Us only. We have a few different styles of their blankets, a changing pad cover, and a sheet saver pad. They are amazingly soft!!! And great quality. I LOVE them! Highly recommend - a must-have brand to look at when getting these kind of things. You're baby's skin will be up against them - might as well be extra soft! Must-haves for US!
Baby Carrier - We have a Peanut Sling, a Moby Wrap, and an Ergo carrier - yes, I'm into baby-wearing. :) The sling will have to wait until he can sit in it b/c he hates having his legs up against something and therefore does not like to lie in it. The Moby works great! Love it! And the Ergo still has yet to be used out, but I've tried it on with Aiden at home, and it seems to be great, too. These help so much with getting things done around the house and being able to walk around outside. I'm looking forward to using the Ergo and going hiking! :) Plus, the Ergo is something Daddy will use, too! Here are the ones we have.... Definitely MUST HAVES!!!
Nursing covers - MUST have! Blankets just didn't cut it with me. They lie on baby's head, you can't see what you're doing, can't see baby, etc. These just make it easier. They open up on top so you and baby can see each other. They are plenty big enough to cover what you don't want others to see. And they're cute, too. So glad I have this!
And one more...
RayShade UV Protective Stroller Sun Shade (by Kiddopotamus - another great brand!!) - This thing is made to go on the stroller and create a much better shade than
most strollers come with. It has velcro strips so you can adjust it to fit just about any stroller however you need it. We still use the carrier in the stroller, and it doesn't have a huge shade either. So I thought - wonder if I can get it to cover the opposite direction when we have the carrier in the stroller - so we can still see him. And it works! You just have to figure out where you need it and velcro the strips so it fits. We can cover him so there is just enough of an opening where we can see each other. I've been out when it was very hot and I was burning up walking for a bit. He can get hot in his carrier, so I worried he would get hot, too - especially since this shade is black. The child was not hot at all! He was cooler than he normally is in it. So - this is an awesome product! Very versatile! Must-have for sure!!
Kiddopotamus SwaddleMe Wrap - This thing is definitely worth it. I wasn't sure at first, and we had gotten swaddling with regular blankets down to a science. But I tried it out one night and haven't gone back. Much quicker and you can change a diaper without unwrapping. Aiden's hands can get out in the morning with some good wiggling, but that doesn't happen often. And with a swaddled blanket, if we didn't get to him quick enough when he was fussing and waking up, he could loosen up the blankets some anyway. So this IS a must-have.
My Brest Friend nursing pillow - Sounds good in theory and maybe it works for some, but I didn't need it. After reading so many wonderful reviews, I got it. I only used it a couple times. To me, I didn't like that Aiden had to lie flat on it. I hold him with his head higher than his feet most times. And my torso isn't that long, so I didn't really need that much height. I have to hold him up sometimes, but I didn't need the pillow. After it sat around for a couple weeks, I returned it. You could tell it had not been used. Definitely NOT a must-have.
Playard with Vibration - We use this a LOT! When we put him down, if he wakes up or isn't quite asleep when we lie him down, we push the vibrate button, and it works wonders! (We don't wait for him to fuss, we can tell when he might need it, and if we wait until he fusses, it's too late for this to help.) It lasts quite a few minutes. The low hum from the vibration and the feeling itself really helps him drift back to sleep. And the remote control to it that I thought was a little much - another big help. I have it next to my pillow in bed, and it comes in really handy some mornings when I can tell he's not really ready to wake up yet. A huge must-have!Gdiapers - These things are awesome!! They're like a mix between cloth and disposable and are
being called the "greenest" diapering option. The outside pant is cloth with a waterproof liner on the inside. In that goes a flushable insert - that you can flush!, compost, or throw away. And it only takes a couple months to be absorbed into the earth (versus the 500 years a disposable is in a landfill!). We haven't had any poopy blowouts like you do with disposables, either. (That's one comment that you constantly hear about gdiapers - no blowouts!) I have often opened up the diaper and been so thankful we had gdiapers once I saw what was being held inside there... Haha! These - a MUST, MUST have. Plus, they're super-cute! And not really more expensive than disposables, just more up-front cost but it evens out. Interested? Intrigued? Learn more at gdiapers.com or ask me! :)Crib - Well, this is one thing we didn't need right away, though we definitely need. We still have Aiden in the bedroom in a bassinette at night. And during the day, we usually have him nap in the playard bassinette. We are just now starting to do naps in the crib, and he's almost 8 weeks. He'll be in our room at night for a while still.
Pacifier - Another thing that WE apparently didn't really need! This child just does NOT like them! He was taking the soothie for a little bit, but he has downright refused it for the past couple weeks. Once, he almost took it and as soon as it was in his mouth all the way, he gave this look of disgust and pushed it out. He looks like he's actually offended when we try to offer it - like how dare we do such a thing. I guess nothing is as good as mommy (and more importantly momma's milk). That's what he really wants - even if he's just tired and needs to fall asleep. We'll have to watch this eventually, but for now, I'm happy to give in and be a pacifier. It helps him feel secure with me and bond, and that's more important than me refusing b/c he's not actually hungry.
Not a must-have for us - not yet anyway.Koala Baby blankets - These are from Babies R Us only. We have a few different styles of their blankets, a changing pad cover, and a sheet saver pad. They are amazingly soft!!! And great quality. I LOVE them! Highly recommend - a must-have brand to look at when getting these kind of things. You're baby's skin will be up against them - might as well be extra soft! Must-haves for US!
Baby Carrier - We have a Peanut Sling, a Moby Wrap, and an Ergo carrier - yes, I'm into baby-wearing. :) The sling will have to wait until he can sit in it b/c he hates having his legs up against something and therefore does not like to lie in it. The Moby works great! Love it! And the Ergo still has yet to be used out, but I've tried it on with Aiden at home, and it seems to be great, too. These help so much with getting things done around the house and being able to walk around outside. I'm looking forward to using the Ergo and going hiking! :) Plus, the Ergo is something Daddy will use, too! Here are the ones we have.... Definitely MUST HAVES!!!
Nursing covers - MUST have! Blankets just didn't cut it with me. They lie on baby's head, you can't see what you're doing, can't see baby, etc. These just make it easier. They open up on top so you and baby can see each other. They are plenty big enough to cover what you don't want others to see. And they're cute, too. So glad I have this!
And one more...
RayShade UV Protective Stroller Sun Shade (by Kiddopotamus - another great brand!!) - This thing is made to go on the stroller and create a much better shade than
most strollers come with. It has velcro strips so you can adjust it to fit just about any stroller however you need it. We still use the carrier in the stroller, and it doesn't have a huge shade either. So I thought - wonder if I can get it to cover the opposite direction when we have the carrier in the stroller - so we can still see him. And it works! You just have to figure out where you need it and velcro the strips so it fits. We can cover him so there is just enough of an opening where we can see each other. I've been out when it was very hot and I was burning up walking for a bit. He can get hot in his carrier, so I worried he would get hot, too - especially since this shade is black. The child was not hot at all! He was cooler than he normally is in it. So - this is an awesome product! Very versatile! Must-have for sure!!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
What a Big Boy!
Aiden has been quite the little sleeper lately.
For the past week and a half or so, he's been sleeping SOOOO well at night. He's been waking up sometime between 2 and 3 to nurse, going right back to sleep. Waking again around 5 to nurse, back to sleep. Usually up again around 7 where he might stay up for an hour and then go back to sleep - or he'll just nurse and go back to sleep. So, to me, he's really just waking up twice in the middle of the night. Sometimes he sleeps between 5 and 6 hours at a time!
We usually get Aiden down for good for the night between 9 and 10, depending on his earlier naps, etc. The past few nights, though, he's been making his own bedtime around 7 or 8! We had to wake him to change and nurse him around 11. So we're trying to get him to bed earlier now - and wondering how his midnight feedings will change. We'll see!
Now for naps... When we're out and about (which we've had to do more lately since Daddy's back at work and Mommy has to run errands, get Camden from school, etc.) Aiden doesn't sleep as well. In fact, the car does NOT put him to sleep. He feels every bump and startles with each one. He usually gets really mad and starts screaming a few miles from our destination (or while we're in a long line where I can't get out to help him). He really hates being buckled down where he can't move (along the same lines, he doesn't like his feet to be pushed up against anything either - which is why we can't use the sling we bought to carry him in and when he's upset, I usually have to hold him standing up so his feet aren't pushing into my lap...). Anyway, getting off topic...
At home, I've been putting him down for naps in his crib the last few days. Before, we were having him sleep in the playard bassinette in the living room (helps him get used to the daylight and the noise so he learns to sleep through it all). At night he sleeps in the bassinette in our bedroom. I figure he needs to get used to the crib for when we do have him sleep in his room at night. So, to the crib we go for naps now. He has been doing great. What is so great, though, is how well he has been soothing himself! Sometimes I lie him down when he's still slightly awake, and many times he can still go to sleep on his own. He sometimes wakes up, and I can tell he's not ready to get up. I can tell when he's just fussy b/c he has gas or some other reason, so I'll back off - and he's been doing so well at just going back to sleep. If he cries, I get him, but he hasn't needed that too much. I've been pleasantly surprised! I'll peek in on him and watch him as his eyes slowly open and close, as he drowsily falls back to sleep. It's adorable, really.
During naptime, we also let Aiden sleep on his side. (We're sure he's going to be a tummy sleeper when he's older, but for now he's on his back at night, and we let him lie on his side during the day.) We'll put a blanket up against his back so he doesn't roll over b/c he sleeps better that way. In his crib, he wiggles around a lot. He'll start out lying straight (parallel with the bumpers in the picture) and then end up like this... (I come in and pull up the covers multiple times during his naps, usually tucking his hands in them - he's still getting used to his hands being free and not waking him!)
Sleeping is his big boy crib!
I hadn't been saying how well he sleeps at night b/c I didn't want to jinx it... Hopefully I didn't just do that about his napping, too. Camden learned to fall asleep well at an early age and has been a wonderful sleeper since. We're hoping Aiden got this trait from him. :)
For the past week and a half or so, he's been sleeping SOOOO well at night. He's been waking up sometime between 2 and 3 to nurse, going right back to sleep. Waking again around 5 to nurse, back to sleep. Usually up again around 7 where he might stay up for an hour and then go back to sleep - or he'll just nurse and go back to sleep. So, to me, he's really just waking up twice in the middle of the night. Sometimes he sleeps between 5 and 6 hours at a time!
We usually get Aiden down for good for the night between 9 and 10, depending on his earlier naps, etc. The past few nights, though, he's been making his own bedtime around 7 or 8! We had to wake him to change and nurse him around 11. So we're trying to get him to bed earlier now - and wondering how his midnight feedings will change. We'll see!
Now for naps... When we're out and about (which we've had to do more lately since Daddy's back at work and Mommy has to run errands, get Camden from school, etc.) Aiden doesn't sleep as well. In fact, the car does NOT put him to sleep. He feels every bump and startles with each one. He usually gets really mad and starts screaming a few miles from our destination (or while we're in a long line where I can't get out to help him). He really hates being buckled down where he can't move (along the same lines, he doesn't like his feet to be pushed up against anything either - which is why we can't use the sling we bought to carry him in and when he's upset, I usually have to hold him standing up so his feet aren't pushing into my lap...). Anyway, getting off topic...
Aiden in the car - His little hand jerks up, wide open with every bump!
At home, I've been putting him down for naps in his crib the last few days. Before, we were having him sleep in the playard bassinette in the living room (helps him get used to the daylight and the noise so he learns to sleep through it all). At night he sleeps in the bassinette in our bedroom. I figure he needs to get used to the crib for when we do have him sleep in his room at night. So, to the crib we go for naps now. He has been doing great. What is so great, though, is how well he has been soothing himself! Sometimes I lie him down when he's still slightly awake, and many times he can still go to sleep on his own. He sometimes wakes up, and I can tell he's not ready to get up. I can tell when he's just fussy b/c he has gas or some other reason, so I'll back off - and he's been doing so well at just going back to sleep. If he cries, I get him, but he hasn't needed that too much. I've been pleasantly surprised! I'll peek in on him and watch him as his eyes slowly open and close, as he drowsily falls back to sleep. It's adorable, really.
During naptime, we also let Aiden sleep on his side. (We're sure he's going to be a tummy sleeper when he's older, but for now he's on his back at night, and we let him lie on his side during the day.) We'll put a blanket up against his back so he doesn't roll over b/c he sleeps better that way. In his crib, he wiggles around a lot. He'll start out lying straight (parallel with the bumpers in the picture) and then end up like this... (I come in and pull up the covers multiple times during his naps, usually tucking his hands in them - he's still getting used to his hands being free and not waking him!)
Sleeping is his big boy crib!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Aiden's Star
Another thing Aiden dislikes GREATLY is diaper or clothes changing time... Lately he has gotten a bit better during some changes. He'll lie there and not fuss. But other times he will just get plain ol' MAD. Sometimes, as soon as you put a shirt over his head or pull an arm out - he goes from cooing to the loudest, angriest yell ever! Many times - as soon as you lie him on the changing pad, he gets mad. He knows what that thing is!!
We have these stars and circles decals that go with his bedding - to put on the wall (especially since we can't paint because we're in an apartment). We've been waiting until we had all of the nursery furniture before putting anything on the wall, and we finally got our glider in last week. So, up went some decals on the wall next to the changing table. I put the biggest, most contrasting star near where Aiden's head lies so he would see it easily.
Immediate success!!! He LOVES (I mean LOVES!) the stars, especially the big one! When he sees it, he will just stare at it and smile away! I'll point at the star and call it "Aiden's Star." He'll lie there, and I'll sing Twinkle Little Star - he'll look back and forth between me and the star and just smile. It's the cutest thing!
Now, he doesn't always see the star right away, and it doesn't work every single time - but it is a HUGE difference!
(Thanks Tabitha and Zeb for giving us the decals!!!)
Aiden looking up at "Aiden's star" - Look at that smile!!
This has also helped with one other issue... Aiden's song. See, Camden and I have a special song that's just for us - "You are my sunshine." I always sang it to him when he was sad or hurt (and still do!!), and it just became "our song." We even danced to that at my and Ryan's wedding. :) So, when Aiden was born, I felt like I couldn't really sing that to him and take away the special-ness there was with the song and Camden. (Though we do sing it from time to time, and Camden gave his "ok" first.) No other song has jumped out as a song for Aiden - until now. We sing "Twinkle Little Star" (ok - I sing it), and he loves it! Camden saw it one day and said, "That can be Aiden's song!"
And so it shall be.
We have these stars and circles decals that go with his bedding - to put on the wall (especially since we can't paint because we're in an apartment). We've been waiting until we had all of the nursery furniture before putting anything on the wall, and we finally got our glider in last week. So, up went some decals on the wall next to the changing table. I put the biggest, most contrasting star near where Aiden's head lies so he would see it easily.Immediate success!!! He LOVES (I mean LOVES!) the stars, especially the big one! When he sees it, he will just stare at it and smile away! I'll point at the star and call it "Aiden's Star." He'll lie there, and I'll sing Twinkle Little Star - he'll look back and forth between me and the star and just smile. It's the cutest thing!
Now, he doesn't always see the star right away, and it doesn't work every single time - but it is a HUGE difference!
(Thanks Tabitha and Zeb for giving us the decals!!!)
Aiden looking up at "Aiden's star" - Look at that smile!!
This has also helped with one other issue... Aiden's song. See, Camden and I have a special song that's just for us - "You are my sunshine." I always sang it to him when he was sad or hurt (and still do!!), and it just became "our song." We even danced to that at my and Ryan's wedding. :) So, when Aiden was born, I felt like I couldn't really sing that to him and take away the special-ness there was with the song and Camden. (Though we do sing it from time to time, and Camden gave his "ok" first.) No other song has jumped out as a song for Aiden - until now. We sing "Twinkle Little Star" (ok - I sing it), and he loves it! Camden saw it one day and said, "That can be Aiden's song!"
And so it shall be.
Finally a GOOD Bath!
And it worked! We had an enjoyable bath! The only part he didn't like was going from the water to the towel. And who does like that? It's cold! Since he did so well in the bath, we let him stay in while we played with the water some to get him used to it. He even got some water on one of his eyelids - no fussing! And got then got some in his mouth and seemed to really like that actually (but we didn't want to do that intentionally b/c who knows if he peed in there......)
Here are some pictures of the successful bathtime. (We're not showing the x-rated ones...) ;) We'll save those for when he brings home his girlfriend...................
Little Ryan
At the risk of sounding like Chandler Bing...Could Aiden BE any more like his Daddy??
We all know that Aiden looked like a mini-Ryan from the beginning. No kidding. So many people have commented on this - some even suggesting Mom was a mere carrier for 9 months (come on - I did more than just that!) BUT he had a couple things from Mommy - the dark hair and skin. Well, he really could have gotten that from either of us b/c Daddy's mom has the dark hair and skin, too. She even said that Aiden looked like what she expected Ryan to look like when he was born. But Ryan came out with lighter skin and red hair that eventually turned blonde. But I'll take credit for the dark stuff b/c that's really all I have going for me! ;)
B-U-T................
Now Aiden's hair has suddenly taken a turn towards looking a tad reddish! And his skin - well, the jury is still out on that one at this point.
And in case you're wondering, yes, Aiden looks JUST like Daddy's baby pictures and nothing like Mommy's. Here is the proof...
Mommy and Daddy as babies...
and
Aiden
Nothing from Mama!
We all know that Aiden looked like a mini-Ryan from the beginning. No kidding. So many people have commented on this - some even suggesting Mom was a mere carrier for 9 months (come on - I did more than just that!) BUT he had a couple things from Mommy - the dark hair and skin. Well, he really could have gotten that from either of us b/c Daddy's mom has the dark hair and skin, too. She even said that Aiden looked like what she expected Ryan to look like when he was born. But Ryan came out with lighter skin and red hair that eventually turned blonde. But I'll take credit for the dark stuff b/c that's really all I have going for me! ;)
B-U-T................
Now Aiden's hair has suddenly taken a turn towards looking a tad reddish! And his skin - well, the jury is still out on that one at this point.
And in case you're wondering, yes, Aiden looks JUST like Daddy's baby pictures and nothing like Mommy's. Here is the proof...
Mommy and Daddy as babies...
and
Aiden
Nothing from Mama!
We joke that maybe he's got my personality.... Hmmmm - that could be trouble!
And for the fun of it, here is the comparison with big brother, Camden...
There is a little resemblance between the two. But Aiden is still definitely a LITTLE RYAN!
And for the fun of it, here is the comparison with big brother, Camden...
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
What could have happened...
...did happen.
Today I had my 6-week check-up with my OB. Big day for me b/c I had to get somewhere on time with Aiden by myself. I think I should be able to deal with it all after all that happened today. (Maybe I'm giving myself too much credit, but we did go through a lot...)
First, I manage to get up early to actually shower. By the time I'm getting out, Aiden is fussing (which means he recently woke b/c he wasn't REALLY crying it out). We had a decent morning. Got him dressed, fed, and back to sleep for a short nap so I could get ready. In time to leave ON TIME, I wake him to change his diaper and feed him again. He wasn't hungry, so we skipped that. While changing the diaper, he peed on his outfit. (I was even holding something over to absorb the pee, but somehow some got around it.) So, we change the clothes and the diaper. Then he poops. Big time. Another diaper change.
We're in the car, leaving "on time" (five minutes after the goal, which was really a few minutes early - always have the goal be early so you can sometimes actually be on time!). My mom calls and we're chatting a little. I'm about turn on to HWY 55 from High House (for those of you from the area), look at Aiden in the mirror while stopped at the light, and see him spitting up EVERYWHERE. Stop at Starbucks parking lot to wipe up what I can, and we're back on the road.
The car does not put Aiden to sleep. So he's awake the whole drive to Chapel Hill - and does ok. A couple miles from the office, he starts screaming. Get to the office, it's pouring, so Daddy (who is meeting us there) parks my car while I get us inside. I want to change Aiden's outfit - but the two I have packed (for situations such as this, of course) in the diaper bag...are TOO SMALL! (I even thought yesterday that I should put bigger outfits in there - but obviously I hadn't done it.) So, he's stuck in a spit-up decorated outfit while I nurse him and proceed with the dr visit.
We then need to stop at a store before heading back home. It is still POURING. I get us in the store ok. Coming out - I discover that while you can fold the stroller with one hand, you cannot put it in the trunk with one hand. I try a few times while holding the umbrella with my other hand. Eventually I give up, put the umbrellla down, and use both hands to put the stroller away, thus getting SOAKED. But the stroller is in the trunk.
Oh, it's also much colder than I anticipated (b/c I didn't know it would rain like this today), so Aiden is in a onesie. (But we do have a big blanket, so he's not cold, thankfully.)
Get home, change diaper and clothes, feed, and leave to get Camden from school. Once again, Aiden is a happy camper in the car. Until we get in the carpool line. We're lined up in the street since we're not early, though. And it's still pouring. So I try everything I can from the front to calm him. After ten minutes of him screaming - by the time the line is moving - he is falling asleep while I am driving...with my right arm reaching back to stroke his face.
So, let's see...we dealt with...
wetting his outfit and then dirtying his diaper both right before we leave.
spitting up on the way.
pouring rain + car seat + umbrella + stroller.
crying while in the car.
nursing while out.
not sure what else there is! oh - no sun in the face since it's raining. thankfully! we actually have some screens for this but haven't put them up. one is a shade that clings to the back. i tried unsuccessfully to put this up last night, so i was thankful it was not sunny (could have done without the tons of rain, though).
Oh the joys of having an infant, huh? ;) Oh, and on top of all of this, I woke up with an extremely sore throat this morning. I feel like my throat is on FIRE! But I suppose it could have been worse, right? And we did survive. Aiden is taking a very good nap and will most likely (as usual) wake up to nurse right when I'm sitting down to eat. ;)
Today I had my 6-week check-up with my OB. Big day for me b/c I had to get somewhere on time with Aiden by myself. I think I should be able to deal with it all after all that happened today. (Maybe I'm giving myself too much credit, but we did go through a lot...)
First, I manage to get up early to actually shower. By the time I'm getting out, Aiden is fussing (which means he recently woke b/c he wasn't REALLY crying it out). We had a decent morning. Got him dressed, fed, and back to sleep for a short nap so I could get ready. In time to leave ON TIME, I wake him to change his diaper and feed him again. He wasn't hungry, so we skipped that. While changing the diaper, he peed on his outfit. (I was even holding something over to absorb the pee, but somehow some got around it.) So, we change the clothes and the diaper. Then he poops. Big time. Another diaper change.
We're in the car, leaving "on time" (five minutes after the goal, which was really a few minutes early - always have the goal be early so you can sometimes actually be on time!). My mom calls and we're chatting a little. I'm about turn on to HWY 55 from High House (for those of you from the area), look at Aiden in the mirror while stopped at the light, and see him spitting up EVERYWHERE. Stop at Starbucks parking lot to wipe up what I can, and we're back on the road.
The car does not put Aiden to sleep. So he's awake the whole drive to Chapel Hill - and does ok. A couple miles from the office, he starts screaming. Get to the office, it's pouring, so Daddy (who is meeting us there) parks my car while I get us inside. I want to change Aiden's outfit - but the two I have packed (for situations such as this, of course) in the diaper bag...are TOO SMALL! (I even thought yesterday that I should put bigger outfits in there - but obviously I hadn't done it.) So, he's stuck in a spit-up decorated outfit while I nurse him and proceed with the dr visit.
We then need to stop at a store before heading back home. It is still POURING. I get us in the store ok. Coming out - I discover that while you can fold the stroller with one hand, you cannot put it in the trunk with one hand. I try a few times while holding the umbrella with my other hand. Eventually I give up, put the umbrellla down, and use both hands to put the stroller away, thus getting SOAKED. But the stroller is in the trunk.
Oh, it's also much colder than I anticipated (b/c I didn't know it would rain like this today), so Aiden is in a onesie. (But we do have a big blanket, so he's not cold, thankfully.)
Get home, change diaper and clothes, feed, and leave to get Camden from school. Once again, Aiden is a happy camper in the car. Until we get in the carpool line. We're lined up in the street since we're not early, though. And it's still pouring. So I try everything I can from the front to calm him. After ten minutes of him screaming - by the time the line is moving - he is falling asleep while I am driving...with my right arm reaching back to stroke his face.
So, let's see...we dealt with...
wetting his outfit and then dirtying his diaper both right before we leave.
spitting up on the way.
pouring rain + car seat + umbrella + stroller.
crying while in the car.
nursing while out.
not sure what else there is! oh - no sun in the face since it's raining. thankfully! we actually have some screens for this but haven't put them up. one is a shade that clings to the back. i tried unsuccessfully to put this up last night, so i was thankful it was not sunny (could have done without the tons of rain, though).
Oh the joys of having an infant, huh? ;) Oh, and on top of all of this, I woke up with an extremely sore throat this morning. I feel like my throat is on FIRE! But I suppose it could have been worse, right? And we did survive. Aiden is taking a very good nap and will most likely (as usual) wake up to nurse right when I'm sitting down to eat. ;)
Missing Daddy :(
Ryan had to return to work this week. We have LOVED having him at home for the last SIX WEEKS! He's gotten to spend so much time with Aiden, and he was a great help to me, too! But reality has hit, and it's back to work he goes. Aiden wasn't too happy about it...
(Ok...so he's really mad about the fact that Mommy cleaned out his nose b/c he was so congested,
but we can still say it's b/c Daddy is back at work...)
(Ok...so he's really mad about the fact that Mommy cleaned out his nose b/c he was so congested,
but we can still say it's b/c Daddy is back at work...)
Visitor!
MaMaw Sharon took a couple days off to come and visit us. She was here when Aiden was born, but this is the first time she's seen him since he was at the hospital. We all had a great time. She took Camden and a friend to see the new Star Wars movie (poor MaMaw!! She's a trooper!), and she bought Aiden some really cute clothes and got us an Ergo carrier that we were planning on getting to use with Aiden. It was great to have her here. It's been really hard being so far from family - especially since Aiden has arrived!
Picking up MaMaw from the airport
While MaMaw was here, Camden also had his first soccer game of the season. They had been rained out of the first two, and they finally got to play! (They won, in case you're wondering.) :) This was also Aiden's first time to the soccer fields. He, of course, slept through the majority of it, except to wake up and eat.
No picture of Aiden in the new Ergo carrier yet, but here is one of him in the new Moby wrap we also got. This allowed me to actually cook a whole meal. :)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Look at those lashes!
These run in the family...lucky us! ;) Camden has super-long, dark lashes, too (and so do I). Here are a couple pics showing off those lashes.
Just had to share!
Just had to share!
ONE MONTH :)
Actually, Aiden turned one month on Saturday - yes, that was five days ago. We took some pictures to celebrate him growing so much. With Camden, I took pictures each month, and I will continue that with Aiden. It's such a great way to show how they grow! I take it with the same pose each time, so you can really see the difference. :) Here are Aiden's one month photos...
And this one just cracks us up....
It's hard to believe he is a month old already!! By Saturday, he had smiled for mom a couple times and is listening more intently to things like rattles. (By today, daddy has also seen his wonderful smile, too!) He watches us so closely when we're talking to him - especially when he is nursing. He has grown so much in his first month, too! He gained over two pounds and two inches!!
And this one just cracks us up....
It's hard to believe he is a month old already!! By Saturday, he had smiled for mom a couple times and is listening more intently to things like rattles. (By today, daddy has also seen his wonderful smile, too!) He watches us so closely when we're talking to him - especially when he is nursing. He has grown so much in his first month, too! He gained over two pounds and two inches!!
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