Rich 'N' Life

Breastfeeding

2012-01-12T22:41:00.001-08:00

(aug 1, 11)
I was talking to someone today about the option to pump and serve rather than nursing. The baby still gets all the nutritional benefits from the breastmilk and you don't have to be the only one feeding them all the time. I have to admit, with all the trouble I had getting Erin to latch I had sincerely thought about this. But I'm glad I stuck with what I did. And with Paul I plan to do the same.
Breastfeeding is not just about the nutrition for the baby and the weight loss for you. It's about the bonding and so much more.

But I know there are people out there that exclusively pumping would be beneficial for. So don't think I'm knocking it. I just wanted to know the benefits myself.

Jess FINISH POST

All I want for Christmas is my... Oh! Never mind

2012-01-12T22:39:00.001-08:00

Dec 24, 2011
Paul's first tooth has officially broke skin! He won't let me do it often, but if I look closely at what my finger can feel, I can see the white ridge of his lower right front tooth.
Its the end of an era. I was loving his toothless grins, but those days have come to an end. It's exciting though

Generations

2012-01-12T22:38:00.003-08:00

Doctor doctor, give me the news

2012-01-12T22:38:00.001-08:00

( post for 4:20 am on 8-8-11)
So because of the breathing thing last night I called his doctor to bring him in to be checked out. I like my pediatrician office because they are open late and on weekends... Normally. For some reason they were not open this Sunday. So when I called I stayed on the line to have a nurse or dr paged. When they called back is when I found out they weren't open and that it was a nurse from in Tulsa.
She said to go to the urgent care center and that they'd call in over there for us... Which they did not do (and looking back when Erin was sick and we were told to go to the ER and they would call us in they didn't do it then either. Hmm. I'm gonna have to complain to someone). She wanted me to go primarily because at his age they need to make sure his oxygen levels are ok.
When I got there there weren't a lot of people, so despite not being called in ahead of time we were able to get in fairly fast (by their standards, 30 min).
They put what I thought was a heart-rate or blood pressure thing on his foot (looked like a smaller version of those things they put on your finger at the hospital). Turns out it was what they use to measure his O2 levels. They were good, perfect in fact. 100 percent. Which was very good and reasuring. They took his temp (no fever) and weight (12 lbs, 7 oz). All were good signs of him being healthy... Except the cough and stuffy nose.
So the tech took us to our next room where we waited a long time. There was plenty of time to feed and diaper him in addition to waiting.

Jess, FINISH POST PLEASE

I love my husband but...

2012-01-12T22:37:00.001-08:00

Ive decided that a stay-at-home mom Is basically a single mom 75-80% of the time. At least that's been my experience and it remains my excuse for the perpetual state of destruction my house is in.
I love my husband but he is away all this week and I've basically decided to do his "honey do" list. I've waited too long on a lot of the stuff and have decided to take charge of it instead.
I guess my epiphany came about due to events from yesterday. Yesterday was chris' day off, but not mine. Stay-at-home Mothers don't really get those. Yesterday was such a last-minute day!
We spent most of the morning and part of the afternoon in stores looking for a garment bag for Chris big trip today. Then we still had To pack... Yes, "we" even though I was not going with him I still had to help. That's what a good wife does, right?
Well, in spite of me doing laundry almost constantly this week I still managed to have to do 3 more loads of "essential" clothes for the trip. Needless to say, he was still packing this morning.
Anyway, we had established a plan earlier that day, but needed to adjust it. Which is fine, it's been discussed and agreed by all that plans change and we are all fine with that... As long as it's not too much. We had said what all Chris needed ro get done before the trip the next day: get garment bag, do a little laundry, pack, and clean out his car. He had said he would take Erin with him to clean out the car after her nap. Well when we got home Erin took a long needed nap, so I thought he would take advantage of that time to pack. Nope. Instead He sat down and took a nap with Paul.

Dont get me wrong, I'm glad he was able to calm Paul down for a nap, and that he was able ro spend some time with him before leaving. And I also know that we all needed a nap after our busy morning, BUT he had stuff to get done.
So I did it for him.

Jess, FINISH POST PLEASE

Small things

2012-01-12T22:34:00.001-08:00

Dec 30, 11
It really is the small things that make you happy: I just finished a celebratory dance because I changed a dirty diaper before it fully exploded.
Paul is doing the jaw talking thing. He started yesterday but it's in full force now

Totally tmi

2011-10-16T22:55:00.001-07:00

Oct 15, 2011
WARNING!!! MAJOR TMI. Just writing it down for personal reference!

Ugh. So the last couple of days I've had what seems like diarrhea: slightly runny stool, major cramping, and it happening multiple times a day. If you've read my "job" blog you'd have read that I don't get bm all that often. So more than once day is diareah like for me.
I wonder if this is when I'd be on my period? The cramping is what hurts the most. Minor things that are getting on my nerves are the fatigue and lactation problems I'm also having.
I've noticed a discharge not unlike what id see around my ovulation dates. I winder if I'm going to start up my period again because that's what it feels like. Ugh! I hate the cramping.

Gasiosis of the mostest

2011-10-16T22:53:00.001-07:00

I noticed today (technically yesterday because it's past midnight, but the date would be oct 17, '11), during small group that Paul had major gas problems. I mean I had noticed it before throughout the day but hadn't thought of it being anything other than just gas. But it was/is, in fact, a bad case of gas. I had to keep checking him for poopy diapers without there actually being one.
But we've just got him down for sleep and I'm sure I'll be up very soon comforting him again.
We have done our best to do everything we can think of to help remedy him, but only time will tell on this one. We have swaddled him and are playing white noise (was a combined effort at first of cellphones, radios, and the monkey. But we are down to just the monkey now). We also gave him a treatment of gripewater, so hopefully that will keep his stomach calm. Like I said though, only time will tell. The only thing keeping me awake now is the nagging question of; what did I eat today or yesterday that has given him such painful and stinky gas?

Stupid question

2011-09-28T09:13:00.001-07:00

So my husband asked the most idiotic question last night:
Why are you always so tired?
I guess he thinks that because the kids nap I do too; or maybe it's that in spite of all my efforts to clean the house still looks like a pig stye; or maybe it's because even though I slaved over making him a homemade Bavarian apple torte for his birthday I still didn't manage to get dinner ready on time. I am not sure which of these reasons caused him to ask such a question, but he did.
So, why am I always so tired? Do you really want me to open that floodgate? Ok, here it goes!
Bullet point number one (yes, I know I could have just put one here but I wanted to emphasize the importance of this one): I am a mother of two (under two), five if you count my husband and dogs, who is current ill yet somehow manages to get what little work around the house done that she can while still maintaining a social life for her family.
I realize there isn't much needed for a social life for my kids but I do drive to and from preschool for Erin and have been taking Paul to the doctor multiple times this month. So even though I'm a stay-at-home mom I have barely been at my house. And as far as the kids napping... They do not do so at the same time. In fact they are perfectly synced so that when one goes down the other wakes up ready to eat and play. I'm exhausted and ready to nap when you get home
(posted 9/23/11)

Dunking the cookie

2011-09-08T21:51:00.001-07:00

Today and yesterday have been hard days for me, emotionally. It has been physically draining. But I can only blame myself.
Sometimes I forget Erin is just a child ... Not even that! She's barely "not a baby" anymore! But I forget it so easily and lately it's been dampening us both. She is just so advanced it is easy to forget how young she is. No, I don't think of her as a college student or anything, but someone closer to 5 maybe... Closer than how close to 1 she really is. She's not even two! And yet I treat her like I do and expect things I shouldn't from a baby. And I feel guilty for doing so.
She is so special and I don't do enough with her to help her feel that way. These last couple of days I feel like all I do with her is discipline when I need to realize that she doesn't know certain things in this world and life. Shes never had to experience them and is doing so for the first time ever. It's hard for me to remember what that's like.
I had a slight epiphany tonight when I was eating with Chris: we had enjoyed dinner and I decided to make cookies for dessert. Erin was already in bed and had been there quite some time from an early bedtime. Anyway I had made some pretty perfect cookies, if I so say so myself. They were crisp yet chewy. When Chris got his drink he brought milk to dunk them in. I realized I had never ever dunked (or even thought about doing so) chocolate chip cookies in milk before. I mean, I had done it to Oreos and fudge covered graham cracker cookies, but never chocolate chip, in spite always seeing that depicted in movies and hearing about it in books. It was just something I hadn't done. So tonight, I did so. It was pretty amazing. A new experience well into my twenties. And it clicked: this is what it's like for Erin every day... Heck, every minute! Every time she does something it is for the first time (or close to it).
I had felt guilty for a good part of the day for similar thoughts but wasn't able to relate. All I could do was say "she's just a baby and it's all new". And it was hard. It still is hard to remember that. I forget that she's never interacted with things and take it for granted that I have.

Cell phone baby

2011-08-16T00:33:00.001-07:00

I worry sometimes about paul's exposure to cell phone radiation. I know that sounds weird, but I've been thinking about it a lot lately. Now I don't really know much about the subject but it seems as if every article about cell phones these days is either praising some new technology or damning us all to cell-phone-shaped tumors.

I use my phone a lot around Paul, especially while he's nursing. After all; there's an app for that. I mainly use it as a timer, to look up things on the Internet, edit photos, write blogs, text, and check in on Facebook statuses during that time. These things keep my phone fairly close to his head. Now I did use my phone with Erin, but I did not have such a cool iPhone at the time, so i often just set the timer then put it down.
I think a big reason ive been a little freaked lately is because of the "Ryder" thing. This poor child is suffering from some advanced form of brain cancer and I can't help but wonder if it's from cell phone radiation exposure.

It makes me fearful. I try to put my phone down or at least hold it away from Paul while nursing now, but I have this nightmare where Paul has grown up and has this horrible thing that's cut his life short and he blames me because it's due to me using my phone around him so much while he was so young. I feel so guilty... And ashamed that I cannot use better will power to keep from using it while nursing.
Anyway, that's my rant for the night. Like I said, I don't really know much about the subject so I don't know how accurate my fear is, but sometimes the imagination wreaks havoc when it runs loose in my mind.

Odd happiness

2011-08-12T13:07:00.001-07:00

I know it sounds odd (unless you read the previous post) but I look forward to the next time I get to nurse Paul on my left side. It'll be such a relief. **sigh** it's the simple things in life.

Duct, Duct, Goose

2011-08-12T12:43:00.001-07:00

Ugh. Yesterday afternoon I started noticing pain in my left breast. By nighttime I knew I definitely had a plugged duct. The top of my breast was hot (not just warm to the touch), red, and rock hard along a distinct line. It was painful to the slightest touch. Before I went to bed I pumped an additional 3 oz from that side alone just to empty it after a feeding.
But that didnt help like I thought it would. It relieved the pressure but not the pain (the hardness had lessened but not gone away).
When I woke for paul's mid-night snack my whole body was in pain. My muscles ached like I had the flu, and I had such bad chills I felt like I was in the fridge. Both sides were engorged, but that was due to it being so long between feedings. My left was still very hot and very very tender. I went and pumped an additional 3 oz each side (6 oz total) before waking Paul to feed him.
When I did feed him i gave him the non-painful side first, changed his diaper and then gave him the left. I was in so much pain as I pushed the stopped up milk down the duct towards him. My body was still achy and my chills were increasing as I laid him back down to rest. I kept getting up due to not being able to get comfortable. After checking my temperature (97.3 f which makes me think our thermometer is very wrong its given me similar readouts on paul was i was sure he had a fever) I put a cold pack on and took some Tylenol. Eventually the Tylenol kicked in and my chills turned into sweats so I ended up sleeping in the recliner in the living room til Chris left for work.
I fed Paul again and "pushed" the milk out, despite the pain. I think that time must have done it. By the time Erin awoke I no longer felt as achy (a little remains, but I think that's due to the massage) and my temperature problems had almost left. That's also how I'm feeling now.
It's midday and I've started to get chills again and am trying to get relaxed so my body won't hurt. The pain is still in my breast but it's not hard, so I think it's more from me pushing on the duct while feeding. Hopefully I'm completely better by tomorrow.
Now I can kind of guess why/how this happened. For a while I've been getting such bad sinus headaches I thought my head would explode. The sinus problems eventually turned into a sinus infection. So when u took Paul into the dr for his breathing problems I asked them about mine, too. The dr said that even though I was nursing I should take Musinex D to dry out the sinuses. But to be sure and drink plenty of liquids. So I did, but probably not enough liquids because Paul became agitated when nursing. So to help my supply I started taking supplements (nettle root and fenugreek. At first it didn't seem like they were helping, so I started eating oatmeal at every meal. I should have checked but the supplements can take up to 48 hours to start working. I really think I mixed meds too much too quickly. But I was so afraid of loosing my milk supply and drying up because I selfishly (I felt that way though I know it's not true. But I feel that way when I put my wants/needs in front of my children's) wanted to take those meds for an easy fix to my sinus problem. I felt I should have looked for alternatives, but I now know these were the best choices.
I had had an oversupply anyway so I shouldn't have fought so hard to get it back up. I'm just grateful things are heading back to normal and healthy.

Biting

2011-08-10T01:44:00.001-07:00

(post for June 31, 2011)
OMG! Erin bit me! And from what I hear I'm not the only one. She apparently bit Heather yesterday. I hadn't heard about it till I exclaimed "she just bit me!".
I bet she learned it at school... Or from the dogs. All I know is I didn't teach her that!
I was sitting on the pool's edge while Paul was asleep and Erin sweetly swam up to me. At first I thought "how sweet" when she put her mouth on my knee, "she's giving me a kiss on my knee.". But boy! Was I wrong! She bit me, and it took me a moment to realize what she was doing. I jerk my knee away and exclaim. Then I told her "we don't bite!" and put my foot back in the water. She promptly bit it again. And they weren't quick little snippy bites, they were tear-into-a-piece-of-meat alligator bites! I remember the look on her face as she looked up at me with a smile as she semi-cheerful my kneecap. Thank goodness it was a place that was mainly bone; those little razor teeth of hers would have really hurt a fleshy bit.
I am still in shock about it now (august 10, 2011) as I look back on the event. But she hasn't but anyone since (which is another reason I think it was at school, because she's been out on break for a while). I'm sorry if she did. It really shocked me.

Our announcements

2011-08-08T22:09:00.001-07:00

Photo Card

View the entire collection of cards.

Cough cough gag

2011-08-07T01:16:00.001-07:00

"cough, cough, gag" is the sound poor Paul has been making when he stirs today. I think it's his allergies but I'm not for sure so I'm going to call the dr tomorrow to find out for certain. He doesn't do it on a regular basis, just when he wakes.
Although just now when he woke for his midnight feeding it was a bit worse and he had trouble breathing too. It was very scary as I watched my baby gasp for air. I quickly undid his Woombie, even though I knew that wasn't the cause, and pat him on the back while sitting him upright. I know that's not what I'm supposed to do if he's chocking, but it was my first instinct. I hope I never have to use that training I got in the infant CPR class. Besides it wasn't like he was chocking on something, just chocking in general (which seems like it'd be a bit more scary).
I have noticed he is very stuffed up sounding and have been aspirating him a lot today. Hopefully this will pass without any significance other than another notch on my worrisome mom experience.
He had been sleeping nicely in his bassinet but after his chocking fit I figured that if it is to do with drainage we should prop him up a bit. So he is now quietly asleep in his swing while it is in the upright position. I don't like not being right beside him at this time of concern, but I know it is the best way for him to rest right now. and I need to get mine as well... Although that seems a bit hard right now with my worrisome thoughts.

Five by five

2011-08-03T01:34:00.001-07:00

I've got to quit sleeping through my alarm. Granted these last couple nights I haven't, I've just been pressing "snooze" for an hour or more.
Yes, I set an alarm for breastfeeding. It's due to Paul's amazing willingness to sleep through the night. I've been wondering if the combination of the sway of the swing and warmth of the woombie make it too comfortable for him and that he night just sleep the day away.
I know that if I keep ignoring the alarm and let him sleep without nursing we will both be sorry. Today was another day he slept past 5 hours and it was really hard to get him to latch because I was engorged so badly. I need to get up and pump for a few minutes before waking him so that this is not a problem. But I didn't, and now I'll be up even longer because even though he ate, I'll still have to pump to be comfortable enough to go back to bed. Besides, if I get up when the alarm goes off I'll be keeping up my supply and not hindering it.

Nice night to nap

2011-08-02T17:12:00.001-07:00

(post july 29, 2011) I have to say putting the kids to bed last night was like night and day, in a way.

With Erin I should have followed my gut, but I resisted to do so at first. I knew she was tired, but I kept dismissing it because she has just taken a nice long nap (from 4:30 to 6:45). That was really her only nap for today (I mean, she took one at school, but only for the last 15 minutes, and they had had big day with it being the last for the summer time. So I don't think that counts. We tried to get her to nap before then, but we were at nana's and then she refused to do so in the car.).
But it ended up after throwing her food in the floor and throwing a fit while getting ready for a bath, I just said "screw it.". I stopped running the water and realized what was happening. She was over tired (aka past tired). So I told her "alright, let's just go to bed.". She turned around and walked her naked butt straight to her room and called for beau. We got her dressed (it was nana and me), said te prayers and put her down. Immediately once we put her on the table to get dressed her body seemed to relax. It was as if she was saying "yes! I just want to go to sleep!". It made me feel bad that I hadn't "listened" to her earlier. But I'm glad she went right to sleep once she was in her crib.

Paul, on the other hand, went down without a peep! Okay, I am probably paying a bit more attention to his cues because I take for granted that she can talk and move around on her own. But anyway, I was just getting done with Erin when it was time for Paul to eat. I noticed that he was starting to grunt and sat down and fed him. After food and diaper change, we played just a little with Mr.Fan. I noticed he was starting to yawn and squirm so I got up and walked him around just a little before putting him down for a quiet nite. It was very nice.

Getting in the swing of sleeping

2011-07-31T02:26:00.001-07:00

So, it's Paul's midnight snack... Past time. He has officially "slept through the night".
When doctors ask if your baby has "slept through the night" they are asking if they are sleeping 5-6 hours at a time sometime around midnight to 5 am. It's not the recommended 8 hours adults are supposed to get, nor is it the 10 hours nmy toddler sleeps (and thereby spoiling us). But it is something. And newborns aren't supposed to do so until they are at least 3 months old.
But Erin did sort of the same thing, and I know exactly why: the swing. Don't get me wrong, it was nice not waking up until 3-something. But it can be disturbing if you are a worrier like myself. Normally I wake at his first grunts, even if it's more for a bowel movement than food. But tonight he didn't do so until after I had pumped, and only after I stopped the swing. Which was why I didn't want him to nap in the swing during the day at first. But he's been good about waking himself up within a reasonably close amount of time to the 2 hour mark. But when he sleeps in it at night, and even sometimes during the day, he will sleep past the recommended 4 hour wake-up point. it's not all the time, but most of the time I have to stop the swing and/or uncover him to wake him. Which is why I've been trying to have him sleep in the bassinet more at night; at least for the first part of it (because he normally goes down then without a fight. Sometimes after the midnight snack he is wide awake (which was the problem very early on) and that's when I feel compelled to put him in the swing for the sake of my sanity.
But, as I said, I am a worrier; so when I awoke almost 6 hours after his last meal I was shocked and scared. I ran out to the living room and checked his breathing. It was normal and all was perfectly fine. But needless to say he is now peacefully asleep in the bassinet by my side, and with a full belly.
On a side note: I was even able to pump for 5 minutes, before he awoke, to relieve some pressure (which is what woke me up). I got over 5 oz. I'm sure I could pump right now and get some more, but ehh. I want my sleep, too. So, why am still up "talking" to you? Good question. Night!

Jeans

2011-07-28T21:22:00.001-07:00

Today I fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans! That's about all I could do in them... But, hey, they fit. I could walk and stand just fine, it was the sitting that was uncomfortable. Today was the first day I really tried them, so I almost think I could have fit them before today. I know if they were pre-Erin-pregnancy pants they would definitely fit. But I didn't keep any of those after I lost the weight. The pregnancy jeans are a bit loose so it's a give and take. Maybe I'll just stick with the cargo and clam-digger pants till I can sit in the jeans.

Sleep

2011-07-27T05:34:00.001-07:00

Last night Paul slept 5 hours straight. I'm sure he would have slept longer if I hadn't gotten up to pump. There have been a few times before I've had to wake him because he'd gone past 4 hours but for some reason this one was more memorable. Maybe because he went right to sleep at the start and straight back to sleep after. Didn't have to worry about getting him there, which can sometimes take him a long time. That and now I feel even more tired than when he doesn't sleep that long.

Products I'm lovin'

2011-07-26T01:37:00.001-07:00

Okay, so it's after another midnight feeding and my mind is thinking hard while I'm trying to get to sleep. Right now it's stuck on items I feel make being a baby's mama so much easier. They are items I should think about buying for people at their showers and items that I will probably not get ride of that will end up in their hope chests. They are;
• woombies
• wubbanubbs

Products I will get rid of after the post-partum period But were great to have as a mom (and that I should definetly remember for people's showers) are:
• post-partum/cesarian underwear - great at holding in and helping to firm up all that loose skin after baby.
• lansinoh disposable breast pads - I used non-disposable ones after Erin was born along with these and preferred those. But with Paul, I think the disposable are better at stopping the leaks. Probably due to the amount of milk. But also the reusable ones you had to see which ones worked because some would stick to the nipple if there had been a leak and it would be slightly painful to take them off.
• lanolin - no nursing mom should be without this stuff.

And something every mom deserves is to feel sexy, which is why I love Hot Milk's nursing lingerie. It sucks that they are expensive (a bra runs $35-55), but you can usually find them on one of the mother sale sites at least twice a year.

Cellulitis scaring

2011-07-22T02:31:00.001-07:00

After The c-section for Paul I got a bacterial infection around my incision called cellulitis. No, this is not what women complain about having on their thighs and butt, it's an actual infection caused by Streptococcal or staphylococca bacteria which can enter through the cesarian scar. This is how mine came about, causing my incision site to ooze slightly then have other symptoms: skin red and warm to the touch, some pain (if any, but I attribute that to the massive amount of drugs I was already taking for the pain), fever, chills, and inflammation of skin around the incision. My inflammation wasn't around but rather above the incision. I don't think I would have even noticed something was wrong if it hadn't been for the bloody tape over the seuteurs. I remembered that with Erin's c-section I didn't have blood showing. So I called attention to it. And I'm glad I did, cause if the infection got too bad I would have had to stay at the hospital even longer.
But now that my belly is somewhat flattening out I am able to see the scaring a little better. I could always feel it though... The inflammation made my skin look and feel like red cottage cheese. It was numb where the infection was and has slowly started to get feeling back. But now my loosened skin reveals an even more stretch-mark type of battlefield. It still feels a bit like cottage cheese is under my skin's surface: normal skin tightness and elasticity with bits and chunks of stretched non-elastic skin mixed in at random. It feels very odd. I'm not as worried about my real birthing stretch-marks as I am these. I mean, you can't really see them if you aren't looking unless I gather that chunk of akin together, but that doesn't stop me from being able to feel it. It's a bit of looseness I'm afraid wont bounce back. I don't know much about this infection other than what I've read on the Internet so I'll be asking my dr about it at our next visit.

Test

2011-07-21T21:16:00.001-07:00

Testing picture posts

Migraines and mommys don't match

2011-07-21T15:22:00.001-07:00

Ugh. I have been fighting a massive migraine for most of the day. The oxycodone I took is finally kicking in so I feel good enough to stare at my phones screen long enough to do some stuff. But I was just about in tears (and slightly nauseous whenever Paul got upset. I'm very grateful it's a grandparent day for Erin cause I'm not sure I could have handled them both alone. It's not Paul's cries that make my stomach turn but the shushing noises to make him calm down. I'm in my house right now hiding from the sun and hoping my ears stop ringing. Even though I took medicine my face around my left eye still feels bruised like someone punched me really really hard. ugh. I'm going back to bed before my head explodes.

* I was going to include a picture of an exploding head but I almost threw up doing an image search for one and decided against it. Just image one of the many exploding heads from JJ Abrams Fringe series (and yes, this can include the bleeding eye ones because with all the pressure my temple feels I would not be surprised).

Pauls 2 week check up

2011-07-21T15:19:00.001-07:00

Post for July 6, 2011

Today at 1130 was Paul's 2 week check-up. We actually saw Dr. Harp-Wetz now that she is back from maternity leave.
Weight: 9 lbs 3 oz
Length:
Head size:
So basically he has gained a pound since leaving the hospital but remains the same length.
Other things she said was that he was perfectly healthy and she didn't expect to see him back again until his 2 month.
Then there's the stuff with the belly button...

She said it is sticking out because it's herniated; which is not a problem and should go away by the time he is 2 years old. His hernia isn't bad enough to warrant surgery if he doesn't need it. But we are supposed to watch it because it can be more prone to infection (which can be very dangerous) than normal. Also because it is herniated, it will stick out more when he cries or strains. This has been causing the healed/dried up stub to remain fresh (Which is what I've been worried about). The dr put some silver nitrate on it to help seal it, which is perfectly normal. But by the end of the day, due to all his straining, the silver nitrate had worn off and the fresh wound remained fresh (and puss-like). She did say if it didn't look better or wasn't healing by the next couple weeks to go ahead and give her a call.
Other than that he is a perfectly healthy little boy!

Checking in

2011-07-18T14:22:00.001-07:00

Let me just say, and please excuse my language, if you are going to take one (or both) of my children you'd better damn well answer my calls! My biggest fear is loosing them so when you don't answer my texts or phone calls I get anxious and start to worry. This is even more true when you repeatedly don't answer me... Especially I'd you are going a long distance or time I need those check-ins to happen. I understand people can't always get to their phone immediately. But when you are watching someone else's child be sure and call back as soon as you see the call/text.
For repeat offenders I will be forced to not allow this situation to have the possibility of arising again so that I won't have to worry about it. I do appreciate your willingness to watch them even while you are busy, but i cant emotionally deal with it right now. Thank you.

Straight sleep

2011-07-18T11:08:00.001-07:00

After months of sleeping on my side or reclined I am finally sleeping straight on my back. This past week I moved back into the bedroom and have slept with just a pillow under my knees to take some pressure off. it feels so good to lay like this! I normally am a side sleeper but it is so nice to feel like I'm not always hunched over in life right now. Now if I can just get a few more hours I'd be golden.

Pumping (the second time around)

2011-07-14T11:43:00.001-07:00

The first time I pumped after Paul's birth was June 26, 5 days after he was born. I got a full 2 ounces! I was not prepared for this! I was even more so not prepared when I pumped a complete 8 ounces justa few days later (June ?). This was deffinetly different than how it was with Erin. with her I was barely getting .25 of an ounce that first bit. it took forever for me to pump a full 8 ounces! Like 4-6 months! It hasn't been a regular event, but I do get around 4 ounces at a time right now. I'm so not used to this. It must be because I got pregnant so close to stopping breastfeeding Erin... I was actually a number of months pregnant (4, I think) when I stopped nursing her. I don't know, it might just be how it is with consecultive pregnancies.

Growing up

2011-07-14T11:23:00.001-07:00

More of a quick note but: my little buby is growing too fast! He's already 3 weeks old! Where has the time gone? It does not seem like just yesterday but it does seem like we've got a rhythm going. I don't want him to grow any more (says my mommy voice because the rest of me does so that he can become the person he's supposed to). It seems like this is the way it should be, not him reaching milestones, walking, and ultimately leaving the nest (yes, more mommy voice)! *sniff, sniff*

Best birthing advice

2011-07-14T07:39:00.001-07:00

I was thinking about some of the best advice/nuggets of wisdom I've received over the course of my pregnancies and thought I would share some (if you can think of any that I missed please feel free to add it in the comments). Now I know I've only had c-sections, but I did have my water break on it's own with this last one and with the first I did start to have her vaginally. So I realize I can't speak for all types of labor other than the fact that some of the advice was from my first pregnancy (when everyone thought it'd be naturally) and from what I heard from other recent first timers that did it that way:
You will shake uncontrollably after giving birth - this one is true for both types of delivery. I know after my cesarians they took me to the recovery room and smothered me with warm blankets to help but both the nurses and I knew I wasn't shaking from the temperature of the room. Your body will go into shock and shake.
Breastfeeding shouldn't hurt... Ever - this advice came from multiple professional sources: LLL personnel, LCs, and nurses. It was bard for me to believe at first because all the people telling me to be sure and toughen up my nipples to be prepared. But after the first time of getting my little girl attached I was estatic with the fact that it didn't hurt. All that worry for nothing. But then I for lazy in my positioning (mainly because how long I was letting her nurse for) and it started to hurt. It was hard getting her off and repositioning so I just beared with it. But if I had corrected her I wouldn't have had all the problems I did. My muscles were so weak and I was just not willing to hold her properly for the full amount of time. I guess if this advice doesn't ring true with you take the other side of it and toughen things up.

Breastfeeding may not protect moms against MS relapse

2011-07-13T02:53:00.001-07:00

Wed, Jul 6, 2011 (HealthDay News) -- Hopes that breastfeeding can reduce flare-ups of multiple sclerosis have been dimmed by recent research in Italy.
Researchers at the University of Florence found no support for prior studies connecting breastfeeding with lower disease activity for women with the degenerative nerve disorder commonly known as MS.
Instead, they determined that women who were sicker tended not to breastfeed, leading to the conclusion that some breastfeeding mothers had fewer relapses simply because they were healthier.
"Breastfeeding should not be encouraged as a protective factor without an accurate evaluation of the specific patient characteristics," said Dr. Emilio Portaccio, lead author and neurologist in the university's department of neurology. "Our study is important due to a lack of a consensus on whether breastfeeding should be advised against in order to resume therapy soon after delivery."
Women with MS are cautioned not to take medications while breastfeeding. The findings suggest that nursing may not be possible for women "with high disease activity," said Portaccio. Those women should be counseled that MS drug treatment soon after delivery should be an option, the authors said.
Multiple sclerosis, a progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by deterioration in physical coordination, affects about 400,000 people in the United States. It strikes women twice as often as men, with symptoms varying greatly from one person to another, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Typically, the disease goes into remission, sometimes for long periods of time, and flare-ups during pregnancy are rare, according to the society.
"The reason is not yet fully understood," said Portaccio.
But the effect of pregnancy on the course of the disease is "at best neutral," Portaccio said, noting that other autoimmune disease activity also declines while women are carrying children. During that time, an immune system "switch" changes from a "pro-inflammatory status to an anti-inflammatory status that promptly reverts after delivery." Symptoms then increase to an "even higher" level for a few months. Pregnancy is not believed to cause any long-term worsening of the disorder, however.
Several drugs are used to fight MS, which attacks myelin, the protective covering of nerve cells, causing inflammation. They are not considered safe for use during pregnancy, however.
For their study, the researchers looked at 298 women with full-term pregnancies from 2002 to 2008 at 21 MS treatment centers throughout Italy. Of those, about 34 percent breastfed their babies for at least two months. The remaining mothers, who breastfed for zero to two months, were labeled the non-breastfeeding group.
Follow-up lasted for a year. After adjusting for factors such as age and level of disability, the researchers found no significant difference in relapse rates between the breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding groups.
The only predictor of postpartum disease activity was the number of relapses before and during pregnancy, the researchers found.
The study, published online July 6 in Neurology, was conducted on behalf of the MS Study Group of the Italian Neurological Society.
The findings are "in line with what one might expect," said Dr. Fred Lublin, a neurologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. "Healthier women tended to breastfeed."
The study "did not resolve the issue of breastfeeding," added Lublin, who is also director of the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for Multiple Sclerosis at Mount Sinai. "These studies are all observational and it's hard to draw a conclusion of cause and effect from an observational study." A controlled study is needed, he said.
One expert expressed concern about the study's methodology. Dr. Emmanuelle Waubant, a neurologist at the University of California San Francisco Multiple Sclerosis Center, said that grouping women who had breastfed for less than two months with those who did not breastfeed at all could have affected the findings.
"Breastfeeding affects hormone production," which could affect disease activity, said Waubant, who is also an associate professor of neurology at the university.
But Lublin, who did not share that concern, said the researchers had used established criteria for group selection set by the World Health Organization.

-- Ellin Holohan

Copyright © 2011 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Baby's First Bath

2011-07-12T20:56:00.000-07:00

Paul had his first bath at home today (June ?, not the date of the post). Erin even helped out! It was very sweet of her but it meant we had to be extra attentive. I was so preoccupied that I didn't get the camera out! I'm sorry, Paul, it was a momentous event I was unable to document properly. I was able to get a few pictures after while you lay drying in my arms. The one below was the best.

It was pretty good as far as infant baths go. He screamed a little. We had to use soaked washcloths because the shower bit wasn't working. Erin helped out with a washcloth by dripping water over him. There were a couple times she got close to and on his face but it was still all good.

Pauls big growth spurt

2011-07-11T10:12:00.001-07:00

Paul's definitely going through growth spurt. Yesterday he was nursing what seemed like every hour.
He's now eating very little and sleeping a ton. When he eats it's one side for not very long and he seems like he's fighting it

Post partum yuck

2011-07-10T12:55:00.001-07:00

Since yesterday I've been feeling really really bad. Last night it felt like an ms onset (flu-like symptoms). My body was sooo very achie and I got so nauseous I couldn't even think about drinking water without it making me feel like I was going to vomit. This was after dinner when these feelings set in so I was lucky I had already eaten.

Sleep?

2011-07-09T06:39:00.001-07:00

Erin has been so worn out these last couple of days that she's sleeping well into 8:30. Chris says this is a good thing for me because I can sleep a bit longer, too. But I have to say that's only true if both of them stay asleep during that time. Paul doesn't agree with his dad and likes to be wide eyed awake in the mornings after his morning pooh. And until that point in time he's only "asleep" in the sense that his eyes are closed because he starts kicking and grunting loudly way before that point.
But it's okay. I've been fortunate enough to get at least a couple hours sleep during the day either during Erin's nap time or while she is with someone.

Gas after surgery

2011-07-07T03:21:00.000-07:00

Obviously this one, though short, is a bit on the "TMI" side. Fair warning.
It's been 2 weeks since my cesarean and I am experiencing some major gas. I expected it those first few days, and it was hard to pass but was encouraged to do so by my doctor (in fact, did you know that after surgery you are required to fart before you can get solid foods?). It was hard mainly due to the pain of the incision but also because the constipation.
But now it's 2 weeks later, I'm having perfectly normal bm (at least one a day, which is actually more than I used to do) and am still having gas problems. They don't smell, most of the time, but they do get quite loud. So let me just apology for that sound, yes: it is me.

Toddler troubles

2011-07-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

So since the c-section I haven't been allowed/able to lift Erin. This has made it especially difficult due to her timing. She has started the "testing phase", where she is constantly questioning her and our limits. This seems like it would be a hard phase to deal with anyway (not to mention exhausting). But since I am limited in what I do it seems even harder. I know I'm doing okay with it, but just barely. I'm so tired in the first place that I get frustrated easier. I know she's still a baby, sort of (toddlers are babies, right?), but it still irks me when she doesn't listen... Which seems to be a lot. But I know as I get better so will these parenting skills. I'm sure if she knew the word she'd call me a bitch sometimes, which I'm actually fine with.
But I was sitting there with Paul as dada gave Erin her bath and thought, honestly thought about it for the first time in a long time, about how it would be with my MS. It's not something I keen on thinking about but it sort of hit me: this is probably what it would be like with a flare up.. On a good day, which makes me worry just a bit. But that is something I will deal with when it gets there.

Worry Wart

2011-07-02T20:33:00.001-07:00

So this is Paul's belly button. His umbilical cord has just fallen off and there is a large amount of pus with some blood oozing from it coming from the stump.

Pooh on pooh

2011-07-02T12:22:00.001-07:00

They say that breastfed babies rarely get constipation. Well, I think Paul is constipated and he is breastfed. Yes he has dirty diapers but that's not what it means: with babies it's about the consistency and ability to push it out. Paul's is very hard, when it should be runny and he definitely has a hard time pushing it out. It seems to hit him worst at night... In the middle of the night.

Bassinet babies

2011-07-01T14:15:00.001-07:00

So Chris and I picked up this $300 white wicker Pottery Barn bassinet at jbf for $150 right before Erin was born. At first we were apprehensive about the buy, a bit worried we had spent that much on an item we weren't even sure we'd ever use.
But since then Erin slept in it for months in our room, Brooklyn did the same at the Wards, and now we are repeating the process with Paul.
We had it out in the living room and were going to wheel it into the bedroom each night. But right now I'm sleeping on the recliners in the living room, so he stays right there with me. Once I feel good enough to "get out of bed" (quite literally; it's the bending and pushing myself from a full laying position, which is why the recliners are nice) both of us will move into the bedroom where he will stay until he grows out of it or hits 3 months, whichever comes first.
But I think it's really cool that this buy, that we questioned, is quickly becoming a family heirloom.

Schedule

2011-07-01T00:29:00.000-07:00

Paul's schedule is all sorts of backwards! I mean, it's past 2 am and I still haven't gone to sleep... And that's after trying to from about 10pm yesterday on! I am not upset, like how I was when Erin did this kind of thing, I'm remaining calm. But I'm afraid of how it's going to effect me when Erin wakes and I have to watch the both of them alone (while still not able to lift her). I know I get real short fused when I don't get enough sleep so I'm going to have to watch it (because I know Erins at the testing phase).
Anyway, he sleeps so much during the day I almost forget he's awake all night and start to worry that he's not awake enough. He doesn't oversleep during the day. He's very reliable in getting his food about every two hours (a schedule he has set for himself, I might add). But then he goes right back to sleep. By the time the night comes I forget and think he'll continue this routine... But he doesn't. Urgh. It's so tiring. If it was just him it'd be different because i could rest when he does too. But with active Erin, I really need these few hours of sleep. Speaking of which: goodnight.

The dogs

2011-06-30T22:49:00.001-07:00

I sincerely wonder sometimes if we should just get rid of the dogs... And even though I'm at the end of my rope when they get out and I sort of give up because I can't chase after them or do anything remotely other than wait for their return; I pray so very hard for their safe return. So much so that, lately with these hormones, I start to tear up.
And now my little girl is talking and she just loves call out their names: "pissy" and "ra"". She used to love trying to pet Tira and get in their kennel whenever she let them out of it. She still tries to pet them both but has found it's a lot easier to do after she "sneaks" them a doggie biscuit. Pixi will come into Erin's room while we do our nighttime routine with her, and we have to remind her to follow us out as we leave.
And now with baby boy... Pixi immediately became a protective guard dog; following whoever was holding him, going to his bedside when he cries, even sitting at my feet as I nurse him. Tira has become more receptive to Erin's advances and licks her face or even allowed her to lay down next to her and give her hugs.
Before Paul came, we started letting Pixi sleep out on a dog bed in the living room (which they take their naps during the day) at night so we could slowly transition her into sleeping with Erin in her room. At first it was fine, but she would come in to the bedroom in the middle of the night and want in her kennel with Tira. But now that Paul and I are sleeping in the living room she hasn't made that attempt and has firmly taken to the dog bed with us.
Now I don't know what I or Erin would do if anything were to happen to these four-legged family members, and I fear each time they get out that something might. I so easily forget how much they really are a part of our family, even though I've joked about them being like another set of children for me to be a mother to.
I know Chris and I seriously talked about getting rid of them, even before Paul was on his way, but now I don't see that as a possibility. Not only would we as owners miss them, but Erin would too much. I don't think I could do that to her. So as much as they sometimes (ok, a lot of the time) drive me bananas, I don't think we will be getting rid of them any time soon.
Chris and I have come up with a few ideas on what to do to keep them from getting out, now it's just a matter of getting the supplies (and time) to implement it.

Dr check-up for Paul and I

2011-06-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Today, June 27, was paul's first doctors appointment! We saw the muse practitioner, Erin, which is fine because we've actually seen her more than our actual doctor who has been out on maternity leave for a while. Paul has already grown almost an inch (3/4 of one ain't bad!) and gained back all the 5% of weight he lost in the hospital so he is doing very well. I believe she said something along the lines if "perfect in every way.". :)
I also had an appointment today, and at almost the same time. Mine was not planned because i'm actually not supposed to see sorensen until my 2 week check up. But with the infection, dr cook (the last doctor to see me and inspect my stomach in the hospital) said I should see her as soon in the first part of the week as I could. He was also the one that gave my infection a name: cellulitis. When sorenson inspected my stomach it was still pretty tender but she said it was looking better. Which is nice. I was barely able to get an appointment with her but lucky for me someone canceled. So all is well with Paul and getting better with me.

Paul's appetite

2011-06-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

Paul is a great eater. And I'm so very grateful. Thank you heather for your prayers. It was something I hadn't even thought about praying about.

Little Miss Fussy-Butt

2011-04-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today she was moody, yesterday she was fussy and she's been all over trying and pushing boundaries... all part of growing up.
Yesterday was just another Sunday that was difficult. I don't know why it's Sundays, but those are usually her worst days. Maybe we just do too much the week before. But yesterday was another one of those days. I thought it'd be good, but she's teething so is fussy. I had to keep telling her no, which made her throw fits and cry... and I just don't know what to do when she does that. It makes me feel helpless. I couldn't find my car keys, or purse, and was trying to get ready for church. Erin wouldn't let me change her dirty diaper, or change her outfit (which turned out to be too small so I had to chase her around and change her outfit again!). Then when I put the dogs away, she went in and let them out and got mad when I wouldn't let her and had to physically take her out of the room. She put stuff in the tub and turned on the water (in my bathroom) as well as put her hands in a toilet to retrieve some toys she just dropped in. When I picked her up to wash her hands she got mad and crying. I got so much snot on my sunday clothes... but I was worried when I was washing her hands that I was hurting her because I had to push her into the sink to hold her up (I only have so many hands). I was worried about her stomach. Not a good morning. I felt rushed and frustrated. But was able to keep my cool through most of it (except in finding my purse... didn't find it until today).
But like I said, it wasn't a day I couldn't handle, which made it a good day. I jsut have to remember, she's just a baby and it's not her fault. This is a learning experience for her and it's better that she learn things she's not supposed to do now rather than when she's older. (I had to deal with this a little today with the dog food and electrical outlets). It's hard to keep that in mind and know what to do. I slap away her hand and she just keeps going back no matter how often I say no she just doesn't listen. She doesn't even acknowledge me when I say her name to get her attention. I just need to remember it's nothing personal, she's learning and I love her. Then when she reacts negatively to my repremands (her crying fits) I just have to walk away. I can't let that affect me either. Just make sure she's away from the bad things and go away until she calms down. I can explain it to her why, but I can't do what I want to (pick her up and comfort her crying) because that's negative reinforncement of what I want to teach.
I'm not saying that she shouldn't be held when she cries, on the contrary that's the first thing I want to do and often do do. When she gets hurt or scared or is tired and just needs to cry, I hold her and comfort her (now I immitate her saying "rock the baby" as I rock her in my arms). But I can't do that when she's crying because she's mad she can't do something she wants to that I don't want her to do. It's not fair to her to let her think that just because I tell her something "no"-wise doesn't mean she can't get out of it if she cries. I can't let in to my first reactions... and that's hard with a crying baby that I love. I do feel bad for her, but I know she's got to learn. I never understood that train of thought until I had a child. I just hope I can stay calm and keep my cool through this learning phase. Erin, I love you, you are so smart, I know you will learn quickly and easily. Just be patient with mama.

Erin Teething

2011-04-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

So it feels like Erin's been teething for the last few months, because every time she throws a fit, sleeps too long, has a fever, gets off in any way that is the excuse: "Oh, don't worry. She's just teething." seems to explain everything.
And as true as it may be, it's just... when will it end? I don't know why but when she started teething I just assumed it would be those first few, and then there'd be a break before the next few came in... and then another break... and then some more and another break.
I don't know why I'd assume something like that. I didn't really assume it, but I didn't really think otherwise. I didn't think that she would just KEEP teething. I don't know why I wouldn't, it makes logical sense, but it just didn't really hit me. Just one of those things.
She's getting her back molars in right now, and I've never seen her go at stuff chewing like she has been. I thought she'd chew through her teethers! She usually doesn't like the frozen ones, but she has gone for them like nothing else these last few days.

A Letter to Both

2011-04-07T03:35:00.000-07:00

Erin and PJ,
My darling dears, when you are old enough to read this blog I hope you see the good outweighing the bad. I have had my bad times and I don't want you to think it's your fault. It is never your fault. I just get so exhausted, frustraited, etc. Please realize my happy memories outweigh my bad ones. I hope yours do, too. Even now, I'm sitting here smirking a bit as I hear Erin tossing and turning and can feel PJ doing the same inside me.
I'm sorry if it has caused any problems with you down the line. I hope you have had a happy life and that I have taken part in it for the best. I love you both so very much. I hope you see that over everything else.
I love you,
Mama

Sleep Over Part Deux

2011-03-16T04:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight is Erin's second sleep over, and it's already a bit different from the first time. I'm awake, and she should be waking up soon, but she'll be waking up over at Gammy's. It was a normal night for Chris and I, but when it was time to go to bed I still wanted to go into her room and check on her. But she wasn't there, so I got a little out of my routine which was awkward for me. I'll find out in a few hours how she did. I'm sure she did fine, she's used to napping at Gammy's. And if something was wrong I'd get a call. I'm not worried, it's just the house feels slightly empty without her... even though everyone would be asleep right now.

bad day

2011-03-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Bad Bad Bad day. It was a great start, but then when I changed her diaper, she wouldn't let me put a new one on, and I snapped. I tried the calm down thing with walking away, but then she still wouldn't let me. I couldn't stop crying and knew I had to do somehting before I did something bad. I wrapped her butt in a towel and tried my neighbors the Jordans, but they weren't home. So I took her to Lacy's. Spent a good long time over there, calming down. But the feelings stayed with me through the day. I ended up having to call Dr. Janet and setting up to see them. They were worried, which made me worse.

Name Calling

2011-03-06T21:30:00.000-08:00

Chris and I had to go pick up the remaining stuff at JBF-Tulsa today and on our way we discussed #2's name.
We've been discussing Paul, Jackson, and Drake, in no particular order or preference as to which two of the three we would keep. We had pretty much decided Paul Jackson or Jackson Paul, though.
But I had gone to a birthday party yesterday where there were about 10 children/toddlers... and 3 of them were named Jackson. So I had time to think about it and was very discouraged in having that popular a name as my boy's first name. I didn't want him to get "lost in the shuffle" so to speak. So I had always been partial to Paul Jackson, rather than Jackson Paul (because that reminded me of Jackson Pollik the artist), and that clenched it for me. And then I thought about other middle names, and went back to the Paul and Drake combination, and then one or two others (I've always liked William, but apparently Chris has always hated it... but I still tried to get it in there). But we kept coming back to Paul Jackson. We like the names and the initials... so there you go. PJ is our name for #2 for right now.
We aren't 100%, and won't be until we fill out the paperwork. But I'm 99.9% sure that Paul Jackson Rano Rich is #2's full name. We wanted to decide it ahead of time so that we could stop frustraiting people. We will call him Paul and PJ... and never ever ever Paulie (that's the only downfall of that first name).

Dollie Go Night-Night

2011-03-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

My daughter did the cutest thing tonight! So I've had a rough time with her today, and luckily Gammy was able to take her for a bit. I'm just so worn out for some reason and I think Erin is grumpy and was being a bit of a pill today (But that's another blog insert).
Anyway, back on subject of cuteness! So it's bedtime and we (Chris, Erin, and I) go through our nighttime routine, minus the bath part because it was late and we had been out. So we changed her clothes, said our prayers, and gave her her medicine. Then it was time to lay her down. She still seemed quite awake, so I brought her her dollie and she held onto it tightly as we laid her down. Then she immediately sat up when she hit the bed, and I thought "Oh, great. Now she's gonna start crying and everything." But she didn't, she just grabbed her little pooh-bear-blankie-thing and started covering up her dollie. Then I thought she was going to stay seated but when I reached for her she laid down with dollie (covered with blankie) tightly in her arms. It was so sweet! I almost cried then and there. It brightened my day and reminded me of the good things. It is a great memory I will cherish (and look forward to her repeating again!).

Grumpy Girl

2011-03-06T15:27:00.000-08:00

Today was a bit rough. Erin's being more clingy than normal, I think it's because the daycare stuff. Ever since I started her in daycare she's become really hard to leave with strangers. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I wouldn't leave her with strangers anyway. She has started crying really hard and clinging onto me when I try and hand her over. The first day of daycare she didn't, she willingly went to the lady there, but since then it's been harder. She's gotten to where, after I leave her and they've finally distracted her enough that she quits crying, anytime someone enters the room... anyone entering... if it's not me she starts her hysterics again. It's very bothersome/worrysome. I know it's just a phase, but it's really hard to deal with when I need to leave her (like church) with someone. I don't know how to fix this. She sort of went through a similar phase when she was 7 months, but it wasn't this bad, and it got fixed after a while. But now... now it's crazy. It's exhausting.
And so I had to leave her today at church at the nursery, which she's gone to plenty of times before and been fine. And I thought she'd be okay (because she seems better with people she knows, and she knows them sort of). When I was checking her in she even started walking off to go in, but she had a hold of my finger, so I couldn't let her in because I wasn't done checking her in. By the time I was done the girl tried to take her and Erin freaked out. It was aweful! I spent most of church praying about her. I thought it was all under control until the last five minutes. I recieved a text saying that Erin needed me. Before church I had been looking forward to the idea that I could get a chocolate chocolate-chip muffin there after service for breakfast. I was really looking forward to it. But when I got to Erin she was inconsolable, so I just took her and headed home. We did stop by McD's to see Chris and grab some food. Fries made the tears go away for a little bit. And when we got home she took her nap.
I thought the fits would be done when she awoke, and I knew Patty was coming to get her in a little while after she got up. So I put in one of her Classical Baby DVDs and she immediately was mezmerized ( for that whole "I'm awake but not really ready to move" phase these DVDs are great). She sat down right in front of the TV, which is a bit close for me (I realize TVs have changed over the years, but I always remember hearing you shouldn't sit closer than 4 feet for your eyes' sake, so I still try to keep to that and have been trying to get Erin to follow it too). So I asked her to come sit with me a few feet away. She just ignored my requests. When I reached out for her and took hold to pull her back to me she freaked out: she flailed her arms, arched her back, started crying and yelling. It was aweful. I felt horible. All I wanted to do was sit with her in my lap, or at least beside me, and I couldn't. Every time I even touched her she started again. I finally just grabbed her and held onto her while she screamed and cried and flailed about. I tried to explain to her that we could watch it and that I just wanted to hold her, but I know she doesn't understand that quite yet. I started crying. All I wanted to do was hold my baby and it seemed she hated me when I touched her. We cried together for a little while and she finally realized I wasn't going to take her away, but she stayed stiff while watching the dvd. I felt so bad.
I've got to figure out how to make her less grumpy.
This morning she was very "dizzy" it seemed, so I'm taking her for a check tomorrow because I'm worried that her ear infection has gotten worse. She's not contagious, I know that much. No fever and her caugh is almost gone. She's recovering her voice even. But she was very off-balance today. She fell a couple of times when she shouldn't have and hit her head. Once when she was standing and holding onto something. She didn't slip or trip or anything, just "wham!" fell and hit her head. So that and the grumpiness makes me a bit worried. It's not that she's sick, she's just not acting herself, so I'm going to go have it checked.

Updating

2011-03-01T08:49:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't been updating hardly at all, but having a 1 year old is a bit taxing on time. My down time is minimal. Hopefully over the next few weeks I'll be able to go back and update some stuff.

Erin's Birthday coming soon!!!

2011-02-09T04:28:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited for Erin's first birthday! It's such an eventful milestone in her life, and mine. I love that I get to celebrate my little girl and show off how talented she is with her many achievements.
I hope we get the rest of her decorations in spite of the snow. We should, and if we don't I've got back-up! :)

Erin Walks!

2011-01-23T22:42:00.000-08:00

Erin has lately been taking a few steps at a time, but tonight at Small Group she walked all the way across the kitchen! It was amazing!!!

Erin's First Steps

2011-01-13T19:01:00.000-08:00

Today Erin walked a couple of feet (at least 3 steps, closer to 5) today! It was from one of her toys to me, with some prompting. Then she did it later between Chris and I. It's so great seeing her reach these milestones! It's sad too because I know that she's growing up so quickly. But it's so great.

Baby Boy Kicks

2011-01-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

I felt Baby Boy kick me last night, very well and obvious. It was a very reassuring feeling. For the last week I've been feeling little flutters and quick cramps that I wasn't sure of. But now I know what those feelings are. I love that I've been feeling the kicks on and off all day.

One Month Countdown

2011-01-10T19:07:00.000-08:00

One more month until Erin turns 1 year old! I've got to start planning! I think I'm going to go with the Alice In Wonderland Theme. I've been doing some research online and have some cute ideas.

Erin's First Step

2011-01-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

Erin took her first step on her own today! It was so magical! Just one little step on her own before falling down on her butt, but it was wonderful to watch. Chris and I try to get her to walk between our arms without support. She's doing so well, and growing up so quickly!

Hit #2

2010-12-10T20:32:00.000-08:00

So Erin gave me a bit of a scare today. She hit her head and scraped it up pretty good. She was playing at the dog door (which I watch her when she's at) and decided to go out it. This proceeded into a very nasty fall on her head. She got a big bump and a small cut. She immediately started crying... so hard she stopped making noise. It scared me sooo badly! I swooped her up and took her to the ER, but on my way there, she stopped crying and seemed to be calm... almost a little too calm and almost fell asleep. It worried me so much, but when I got there, she wasn't bothered very much by the bump. So I took her to the pediatrician instead (in the adjourning building... if it hadn't been I might have taken her to the minor emergency instead). She got in fairly fast (which is better than what I can say if I had taken her to the ER), and the doc said she was good and doing fine, just to watch her for the next 24 hours for anything weird. So, she is fine and doing well.

First Halloween

2010-11-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was Erin's first Halloween... and she slept through it!
We went over to Gammy and Gran'pa's to finish carving our pumpkins, have dinner, and start our trick-or-treating at their neighborhood. She started acting tired right after she ate her dinner while we were finishing up the carving and before the hot dogs were on the grill. So we thought it was a good idea for her to take a nap before the night's festivities really got underway... and that way we could eat a bit beforehand as well. So, she went down for her nap while we finished up then ate dinner.

Then we were ready to go... but she wasn't up yet. So, we stayed around and Chris helped hand out candy for a while and I waited for her to wake up... she slept until close to 10, so it was too late to trick-or-treat by the time we decided to go ahead and get her up so we could take her home. Sorry, folks. No awesomely cute halloween costume pictures this year (although I might take some post-halloween ones).
I guess her onsie was appropriate: "Too cute to spook."

But that didn't stop Patty from dressing up and spooking some kids!

Catch Up

2010-10-27T16:32:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been a while since I've blogged! Sorry folks. Everything is okay. I've been having some stomach and throat trouble, but not as bad as Chris! He was home this last weekend with... big problems. But he went to the doctor and got fixed up. He's feeling much better.

We've been able to keep the viruses away from Erin, so that's a really good thing.

She's doing fabulous, too.

in a nutshell here's what's been going on:

She's entered into the Gap Casting Call,

she gets her 9 month check up in a couple weeks

The darker side

2010-10-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

While I was pregnant, I was not depressed. I was off medication for any and all mental problems (OCD, anxiety, and bi-polar). I had no problems (except some expected anxiety). Even after I gave birth to Erin I still didn't take medicine, nore did I feel a need for it. Erin was my "Prozac". I love her so much. But almost immediately when she turned 6 months, my period came back... and that's when I started experiencing depression. It wasn't just any old depression, it was PMDD. At the time I didn't know that's what it was, but that's what the doctors say it was. I had aweful thoughts: Suicide, hurting Erin, etc. It was not a good time. But just like that, it seemed to go away and I felt better... Cut to one month later, and the depression is back. This has happened right before each of my periods, each time worse than the last. That was another way they knew it was PMDD, because it came and went with my periods. It's such a scary thing, and I would silently suffer through it because I was so afraid someone would take away my baby if I told them what was going through my mind. But, at other times, I instinctively knew that it was better for her to be away from me, so I would try to give her to people to keep her away from me. Whatever you do, don't be afraid to tell someone.

Chris' Birthday

2010-10-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

For Chris' birthday this year we went down to Dallas (Frisco, actually) and purchased him the media center he's been wanting.

It's from Ikea and he's been looking at it for a while now. I figured we needed it now to cover up the cords to keep them away from Erin.
So Chris and I left Erin with her Gammy and Granpa on Chris' birthday and drove the whole 4 hours down. Then we walked around the Ikea for a few hours (due excersize after being in the car that long!). With some extra birthday money he had we were able to upgrade it a little and get a few extras we had been eyeing. We were even able to get a huge picture we had both been talking about since the last time we went (I was surprised they still had it!) to go in the living room.

We stayed the night and came back the next day. Chris had a meeting even though it was his day off, so he didn't get to jump in and work on it right away.

But for the past couple of days he's been able to do little bits and pieces.

Erin helps out ever so often, and I... well I just sit back and make sure neither of them poke their eye out.

I'm so excited to see what it looks like when it's done! He's off work today, with no forseable meetings (but I do have a dr. apt that he has to watch Erin during), so he should be able to finish it today... at least mostly. I'm so excited! I think I'm more excited than he is!

Getting Organized

2010-09-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

So I have this great lady coming over every few days to help me organize the place, and today we worked on the Garage. Erin came out and helped a bit.

Officially Teething

2010-09-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Erin is officially teething. She's been lethargic all day, and has been sleeping like magic (took a three-hour nap today). She's drooling and refusing food (so I've been nursing her a lot more). She's currently got a fever of 101.3... but since she's older than 6 months we're not supposed to call unless it reaches 103. We're worried about her, but are pretty sure it's just teething. Poor thing.

Sleep Crying

2010-09-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

So, I've posted before about how bad Erin is about taking naps and going to bed right now because of her anxiety about being away from me. I just had to document today: I did the whole wait and let her cry... but that didn't seem to work. It started out trying to let her nap. Then the back and forth of going in and checking on her went to longer than her normal nap... then we were both a bit stubborn. It was 3 hours before I gave in and went and got her. It was so sad. I went in at the 2-5-10-15 minute increments to check on her, and had the monitor on constantly. She just kept standing up and holding on to the side of the crib to cry out. Each time I went in, I'd take her and lay her down, put a pacifier in, tell her I loved her, and variations of calming her down. But every time I started to leave the room (Even before I got out) she'd start screaming out and go to a standing position. She was sooo tired by the end of it, I just kept thinking she'd go to sleep, but she never did. I felt so bad for her. I hadn't realized how long we had been going back and forth on this until I looked up and realized what time it was! It had been three hours! I felt so bad (it was from when Patty dropped her off, I fed her thinking she'd fall asleep nursing, but she didn't so I took her out to play, but she was visibly tired, so I took her to her crib, and that's when it started about 4. It was around 7 when I went and took her out. I held her to help her fall asleep, but she just started babbling to me, so I figured she was awake in spite of herself). I figured she could eat and whatnot. I fed her some fresh applesauce (I had made it during the crying), she acted like she wanted to play a little, so we did. She was so pathetic, barely could hold herself up but she was determined to have fun. So I wasn't sure if she'd eat anything, since I'd just nursed her again, but she must have worked herself up an appetite. I decided to be a bit nice and not put her in the highchair to eat. Instead I just brought the food down to her where she had been playing. She enjoyed it, and got a bit on her face and hands, so it quickly became bathtime.
Now, Chris and I had discussed redoing her schedule a bit and doing: feeding, bathtime, and then playtime till she told us she was tired. This was because she was getting so tired at dinnertime that bathtimes were no longer enjoyable. So I was supposed to empliment this tonight, but it didn't happen because she was so tired. I didn't even put her in the bath. I ran the water and stripped her down, but just kept her on my lap where she was clinging to me for dear life. I took one of our glove washclothes and wiped her down. It was good, she didn't cry at all, but she was very tired. Mom came in and lotioned her where she was. She still seemed to be fighting going to sleep, which didn't bother me because I had already said to myself I'd let her play if she felt like it after we were done. But when I put on a new diaper she started to fall asleep. So I just rocked her a little bit and sang to her. There was little fight after that. So far it's 10:30 and she's already woken up once. She's just so tired! But its because she's so smart and curious she always wants to know what's going on (and where I am). I hope she gets a good nights sleep.
I'm not going to fight her on naps again. That was too hard for both of us, and I think I made my point to her. I'll just do what I normally do. If she's awake enough to scream she's awake enough to play (During the day only of course). Basically, if she screams when I put her to sleep for naptime and she doesn't stop I go in try once to set her down, but if she continues I take her out and we continue playing. She'll eventually give me the signal again and we try again. Sometimes I have to try three or four times, but eventually she goes without arguing.
I just felt bad about today. I just wanted to stand my ground on the thing, but I should have reminded myself that that's for bedtime and not naps.

Clingy Child

2010-09-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Erin's going through Seperation Anxiety. It gets worse every day. I'm working on it. It's harder for her to take naps lately because of it. Oye.

Sleepless Nights

2010-09-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

Right now I'm suffering from insomnia (as you can tell by the time stamp on this post), but it is not due directly to Erin. But because I'm awake already I've been the one going and checking on her.
Let me restart: She was sleeping pretty well through the night, waking up only ever so often at 3-5am and then for the day at 7am. Chris would do hisi daddy duty and put her back to sleep at the 3-5 waking. In Peru she started waking up at around midnight, 3-5am, and 7am. I let this slide because she was not in her own bed, new environment, etc, etc. So I'd just nurse her back to sleep. She did fine and would fall right back until the next time slot.
But now that we are back she has gotten a whole new attitude towards sleeping. I can't get her to nap worth anything. It tires me out and I just can't deal with it sometimes. I cheat and it seems the only way she'll nap is if she nurses... but even then that does not work all the time. She just gets sooo tired! I don't understand, because I put her down at the first signs of sleepiness, and the moment she knows where she's going it's bloody-murder! You'd think I was pinching her all over or something! It's aweful and I just don't know what to do. I get so frustrated... I can barely get myself to walk away sometimes though. Sometimes I just pick her right back out and say "Okay, if you are awake enough to stand in your crib/cry that hard/etc you are gonna just be awake." I'll take her out and we'll go back out into the living room for some more play time. I don't want to have to nurse her to get her to nap because I know that's "bad association", but I'll be darned if that isn't exactly what I have to do most of the time. Everyone else seems to be able to get her to just pop right off to sleep for a nap, though.
Maybe it is just the seperation anxiety... that must be what happens at night, too.
I'm glad Chris puts her to sleep at night, but she knows that I'm not there and he's having a harder time getting her to stop crying. She knows the routine, I don't know why she doesn't go with it and accept that it's daddy time and not mommy time.
But anyway, back to what I was saying in the begining: She's waking up at 12/1am and crying crying crying! In Peru it wasn't hard to handle because her crib was right there, I'd get her before she woke up anyone else and nurse her back to sleep. But I don't want to keep doing that.
I've been sending Chris in to take care of her, but I know it's been wearing on him as well. Tonight was a different night. I decided that since I've got this insomnia (that's been pestering me for a while now, and it's just getting worse since I've been back. I really gotta get this under control) I'd just get her before it got too out of hand and nurse her. So at midnight when she started crying I did just that. I cheated and nursed her back to sleep. But that didn't do the trick this time. She woke up again about 30 minutes later. She's just stopped crying. Almost two hours later. It's so quiet I'm kind of scared.
I tried so hard to console her. I gave her her paci multiple times without avail. I put origel on her gums in case it was tooth pain. I knew it wasn't hunger so I didn't bother nursing. But I did eventually pick her up and try and rock her, sing to her, and walk around with her. She only stoped crying for a second when I started walking... but only a second or two. It was bad. I had to set her down she was squirming so much. I rubbed her belly. She remained "swaddled" in the wombie, but that just seemed to piss her off more (I wonder a little bit if it's the detergent because it got washed with regular stuff rather than Dreft, and it's kind of the first batch of stuff that's got a bit stronger smell to it than normal. Just in case I'm gonna rewash it when I wake up).
I had to just walk away. I called the Blue Cross Baby hotline, but it's really only for pregnancy up till 6 weeks (newborns), so they told me to check for fever and stuff (which she doesn't have). I tried calling my pediatrician, but unless I wanted the emergency triage people I had little options except to wait to call until the morning... which is what I'm going to do.
So, after some pacing, I sat in the living room with tears and the video monitor watching as Erin rolled around and banged her head against things (which only made her cry louder). It was a good hard cry for an hour and a half, and then another 30 minutes of intermitten sobs and short bursts. It always sounds like she's in pain, so I don't know what it could be.
After crying a bit myself, I looked up possible things of what it could be. The internet kept saying "night terrors". Some other suggestions were teething (which the oragel should have fixed almost immediately), seperation anxiety, and gas.
All I know is she's asleep and I'm tired. My mind keeps racing and I've gotta get it under control so I can be a good mom for Erin. I'm just greatful that Chris is able to watch her when she wakes up... I just wish he would get up right away when she gets up. But that's another blog.
I'd better get some sleep... after I check on her. Night.

Letter to Erin - # 4

2010-09-05T23:14:00.000-07:00

Erin,

May I whisper something in your ear? I love you. It's so true. I know I have many names for you that might sound demeaning, but I hope you have found them endearing: Monkey face, monkey butt, hairy butt, little butt-butt, stinky (butt), stinky-meninky, cutie patutie/fatutie, munchkin, my rosebud, my pressious, little princess,.. but most of all: Mine. I am so greatful that God has given you to me to have and protect and help grow in His glory and light. I cannot say it enough: you are the best thing that has happened in my life and I thank God every day for you. You are my everything. And I know you will read this years and years down the line but I just want to be able to tell you how much I love you. Right now you are almost 7 months (and my! how that time has flown!) and I don't understand why people say that I'm spoiling you. I don't think it's possible at this age, even for someone as intelligent as you are. I don't think it's wrong for me to come get you when you state that you are no longer willing to be where you are, especially when you cannot get out. It's my duty to do this and ease your storm before it hits. I want you to know that in spite of people constantly saying I caudle you and whatnot, I love you and don't care what they think, as long as you feel protected, I am here. If you are safe, I will let you be. But if you ever don't feel comfortable, even in the basic ways of feeling tired or hungry, I am here for you and will not make you wait long at all for those needs to be met.

This last trip has really gotten me. My tounge cannot always grasp words, and though I may call you a smattering of those names, please remember: you are mine, and I am yours. You are my Erin. And though I cannot always put those words together they are forever true. And that I love you. I hope this makes sense one day.

I love you,

Love,

Mama/Me

Green Dress Beauty

2010-08-29T05:44:00.000-07:00

Falling Asleep at the Meal

2010-08-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

OMG! Erin was so super cute, it was just a few minutes ago, at lunch. I was feeding her and she kept zoning in and out, staring off at things and whatnot (she had a staring contest with Ursila) and chewing extra long time on her spoon. I just figured she wasn't really that hungry (Because she wasn't acting hungry beforehand, I just decided that since we were all going to eat, she should sit down and eat with us)... that was until this happened!

She just started closing her eyes, and zzzzzzzzzzzzzz!! It was sooo cute! We all started laughing so loudly that she slightly woke up, but went right back down. I had to run and get the camera, when I got back she woke up again, and then went right back down! It's the first time I've seen her this tired since she was a newborn. Even when we got her out of her highchair and I lifted her out, she rubbed at her eyes, so I was thinking she wouldn't go back to sleep, but then she fell asleep on my shoulder before we even got all the way down the hall to the bedroom! That was a first, and soooo cute! Definete "awe" moment!

You see, she does get tired at the dinner table, but usually she fusses and rubs her eyes. And when she gets super fussy, I take her out because she's done eating at that moment, but this time there was no fussing, no messy hands rubbing her eyes, just eyes dropping and the *plop!* head drops!

First Class International Flight

2010-08-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

Erin and I arrived first class in Peru with Pop-Pop. It was a long flight but Erin did great. She slept most of the way. Pop-Pop convinced the flight person to let us take her car seat on board with us. We had to have it put away during take-off and landing, but it was nice to be able to put her in it while we were eating. I had to hold her more than I would have because all the turbulance, but that was alright. It was nice. Pop-Pop held her for a bit as well. I wish I would have been able to take a picture! (but my camera was in the overhead) It was so cute, he was asleep holding her on a pillow, and the pillow had visible the "first class" embrodiery on it.

Bob Esponja: un Operetta

2010-08-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

We got this finger puppet for S $1 (which equals about 30 cents US) at the local market and Erin has gone crazy for it!

It is one of her new favorite toys! She sings to it all the time.

"Really, Mom? Another picture?"

Day 1: Pop-Pop and Peru

2010-08-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

Erin and I arrived with Pop-Pop to a happy Nana. I got to nap a bit while they had fun playing around.

Auntie Jen & Uncle Don

2010-08-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

Erin and I took a late flight to Houston and stay overnight. We were lucky that Jen and Don live there and were so amazing to led us spend the night at their wonderful home. Pop-Pop and Jen met us at the airport. When we got there Don made us steaks and we had a great dinner. It was so nice to stay somewhere familiar rather than a hotel.

They even provided us with plug covers so when Erin crawled around she didn't hurt her curious self. Erin had a lot of fun climbing all over the furniture with her Auntie Jen.

The next morning Jen made us breakfast before Pop-Pop came and picked me up for the flight to Peru.

It was so nice to see Jen and Don.

PPD getting better

2010-08-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

It doesn't bother me when people that have never had kids say that they don't understand how someone could shake a baby... but it does bother me when a parent says it. It bothers me because I found it hard sometimes when I would get frustrated. Please understand how hard that is to say. I love Erin soooo much! But I'd be tired (and in pain sometimes) and she'd be so tired she'd be crying so hard and wouldn't go to sleep... and when they tell you to gently shake/rock the baby to sooth her... I can see how it could easily get out of hand. I never let it, but I can see how it happens.

Anyway, I tried to explain to someone the other day how easy it would be, and they were adimant about how they felt. I felt soooo bad. I felt like the worst person ever. I thought people knew how it felt that had kids.

Today it didn't bother me... which was a nice surprise. It bothered me, but it didn't bother me like that. I wanted to cry with her, because I felt bad for how she was feeling. I felt empathetic instead of frustrated... which was a very nice change. A releif, to say the least.

Erin's First Air Travel

2010-08-02T22:41:00.000-07:00

Chris and I were given the opportunity to take Erin on her first plane ride today. Yes, it was for a very sad occassion, but I am greatful I was able to take her on her first trip alongside Chris.

Erin helped me do some last minute packing:

Our timing to the airplane was a bit off, but we still made it to the airport with time to spare. Erin decided to chill out with her toys, but waited wide-eyed with anticipation.

We were lucky enough to be able to board before most people, which was nice, because then we were able to sit in the same seat on every flight (the second to last seat in back left). Every flight was sold out (but luckily in the second one somebody didn't show, so we got a free seat next to us) there and back. But I took some pictures on the first one before everyone got seated:

Chris shared some water with her:

I nursed her on the way up and on the way down on all flights, but normally when I cover her while nursing she tries to expose me, so we decided to "bind" her hands by putting her in this really cool swaddle called a "Woombie". She ended up falling asleep durring the second flight, so we laid her in the extra seat for a minute or two.

While she was awake she played a lot... she was very squirmy towards the end.

She did really well, didn't cry at all! A major success. The only thing was when she started getting squirmy from being couped up all that time.

Carpet Dance

2010-07-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

Erin's doing this dance thing. It's so super cute!

Pretty sure this is how she gets the bald spot.

Lipless Smiles

2010-07-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Erin is doing this new way of smiling. I know it's my influence, but I try to smile a wide smile her with my teeth showing most of the time, but I know I do a lot of the smiling by pursing my lips together. Erin has picked it up and started doing it these last few days (I'd say 3 days at most). It's so funny, but I'm trying not to smile like that around her any more.

Amazing Liquid Gold!

2010-07-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

I get daily emails from whattoexpect.com and this was today's informative article. It was written a couple of years ago, but it's definetly worth a second posting!

whattoexpect.com
12/16/2008 11:30:00 AM

Breast Milk: It's Some Pretty Amazing Stuff!

We've all heard that breast is best. While I believe that formula fed babies thrive and do just fine, I still do my best to give my kids breast milk as long as I can. Zander was the only one of my children that I nursed passed the one year mark. He has never had an ear infection, and to this day he rarely gets sick. I have no idea if it was the breast milk or if he's just very, very lucky.

Breast milk isn't just for feeding babies. Did you know that you can actually use breast milk as a homeopathic remedy for certain things?

Breast milk is an excellent healing agent for sore, cracked nipples. Simply express some milk, rub it on your nipples, and allow it to air dry. Do this often - especially after each feeding.

Breast milk is also known to cure pink eye! Express it into the affected eye. If baby or child won't let you do it while they're awake, do it while they're sleeping. Drip breast milk onto the creases of a closed eye, then open the eye slightly to allow milk to seep into the eye.

Breast milk is also great on cuts and scrapes. Apply to the wound, and allow to air dry. Do this often to prevent germs from growing.

Those are all the things that I have personally used breast milk to treat. However, I have also heard that it can be used to treat stuffy noses, sore throats, ear infections, mosquito bites, diaper rash, eczema, and can even be used as a facial cleaner and is great for removing make up!

I also have a friend who cooks with breast milk instead of cow's milk. Now, I have not been brave enough to try this. I think my husband would freak out if I told him his mashed potatoes were made with breast milk. Of course, the look on his face might be worth it! My friend swears by cooking with breast milk, though, and her family doesn't mind at all!

Who knew that there was so much you could do with breast milk? I find it simply amazing.

These are some of the comments that followed:

astrotq said on 7/25/2009 11:22:00 AM:
haha! yeah i think my husband would flip if i ever slipped breastmilk into his food! he is one of those men that is more horrified than fascinated by my boobs and milk coming out of them, (though he is totally supportive of breastfeeding our baby.) however, he shall have to suffer with his scrapes and mosquito bites, while my daughter and i will be cured, lol!

julesddd said on 8/1/2009 1:20:00 PM:
I donate to a milk bank that uses the milk to treat burn victims. So when I got a sunburn last week, I got the bright idea to use a little of my own milk in addition to the aloe lotion. My burn went away in record time! Add burn treatment to the remedy list.

Kati8009 said on 8/2/2009 12:20:00 PM:
Do you think it would work on poison ivy? I don't know anyone who has it right now but my husband has gotten it pretty bad in the past, might have to see if that works

kelsters99 said on 9/5/2009 12:30:00 PM:
My little boy suffers from a stuffy nose all the time almost since the day he was born (5 months old). How would you use breast milk for that? I have used it for all kinds of things like baby eczema, cuts and scrapes, and sore nipples. Would love to help him with his stuffy nose besides having to suck at what little snot I get when I use the aspirator.

harmsgerm said on 9/8/2009 10:32:00 AM:
There has been some research done linking breastmilk to killing cancer cells. I think the research is fairly new, but if its accurate, I'd add a couple more exclamation points after amazing. :)

ladygarnetoak said on 9/22/2009 1:15:00 PM:
yes it does work on diaper rashes (except for ones caused by yeast), works wonders on teen acne ( i have a 13 yo also) and i used it on my face just to see what it would do and my skin became softer. oh yes the stuff is liquid gold!!!!

missmargarita said on 10/28/2009 9:23:00 PM:
I think breast milk was being used as a cancer treatment in the 80s, but didn't know it was still being used.
I did try putting breast milk in my coffee, but found it pretty yucky (I think the smell was the main cause. It reminded me too much of the smell of her spit).
A few days ago I was clipping my dd's nails while she was awake (silly wabbit) and accidentally knicked a cuticle that seemed like it wouldn't stop bleeding (it eventually did). I remember thinking that if it looked like it might get infected, I'd put some breast milk on it. Thankfully it healed before I got to test my theory. Had it been me who got cut (and I certainly have on more than one occasion, usually when chopping veggies), I wouldn't have paid much attention to it, but she's my baby and I just felt awful to have hurt her, even if it was minor and an accident.
Jules, I think it's wonderful that you donate your milk to help burn victims.

avonfeldt0107 said on 11/2/2009 11:27:00 AM:
how did you get intouch with a breast milk bank? I have it stockpiled. My plan is to keep my son on breastmilk until he is 1, but at the rate we are going, I will have plenty more after that.

kstuhld said on 11/9/2009 12:42:00 PM:
So I went on a date with the hubby and had a couple glasses of wine. I pumped and dumped. If we ever get the opportunity to go out again, do you think I could save the milk for these other purposes or will the alcohol render it useless? Also, how in the world are you ladies getting enough milk to store and donate? I am barely making enough for my little guy to eat. I pump every morning and get maybe and additional ounce or two. Thanks for any feedback.

jkweldon78 said on 11/28/2009 9:33:00 AM:
I agree with everyone that breastmilk is awesome! I have used it in my baby's eye if it gets a little red or weepy and it takes care of it right away. It also definitely works on stuffy noses if you use a dropper to put a few drops in each nostril. Then the aspirator will be more effective. I had never thought to try it on burns or sunburn but I will now! To the person who asked about how to get connected with a milk bank, go to www.breastmilkproject.org and you can find a milk bank in your area. I too have tons of breastmilk stockpiled in my freezer because I always pump before I go to bed at night (my daughter sleeps for 10 to 12 hours overnight and pumping helps me keep from getting engorged). I will be donating it all as soon as I finish the screening process!
Ann2100 said on 11/30/2009 10:08:00 AM:
Wow breast milk is really great. i must try it for those uses

practiceactress said on 12/5/2009 2:50:00 PM:
A good alternative to a milk bank if anyone is interested, is a site called Milkshare.com. It links you to a yahoo group of women who need/want breastmilk for their babies and have either adopted, had surgery, or has a low/no milk supply for some other reason. I had a breast reduction surgery back in 1999 and only make about %50 of my daughter's needs. With the help of Milkshare, I have been able to keep my daughter completely on breastmilk, and I supplement her at the breast with a device from Medela called and SNS (Supplemental Nursing System). We have even been able to get milk in other states while traveling, thanks to this group. So, if you are interested in a more "personal" way of donating, and a less vigorous screening process than a milk bank, definitely check it out. Not enough people know about Milkshare, and it is such an amazing resource. We have a very special relationship with our milk donors... and I think it is nice for them to watch the baby that they are helping to grow get bigger every month. Just thought I would share! :)

Christening Video

2010-07-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

Christening

2010-07-24T21:31:00.001-07:00

Erin got christened today! We are so proud and happy that we were able to do this. I have to admit, I was the one putting a major push behind it due to fear.

WARNING, PERSONAL BELIEFS BELOW. PLEASE REALIZE THIS IS JUST MY VIEW:
I remember being taught that all babies are born with original sin, so if something were to, God forbid, happen she would go to either pergitory (aka limbo) or hell. I didn't like the idea of that one bit! And I realize that not everyone was taught that. Chris wasn't and he didn't understand why I insisted it had to be a christening and not just a dedication.
You see, original sin goes something like this:

The Council of Trent solemnly expressed the Church's faith concerning original sin. In the previous catechesis we considered that Council's teaching in regard to the personal sin of our first parents. Now we wish to reflect on what the Council said about the consequences of that sin for humanity.

In this regard the Tridentine decree states first of all:

Adam's sin has passed to all his descendants, that is, to all men and women as descendants of our first parents, and their heirs, in human nature already deprived of God's friendship.

The Tridentine decree (cf. DS 1512) explicitly states that Adam's sin tainted not only himself but also all his descendants. Adam forfeited original justice and holiness not only for himself, but also "for us" (nobis etiam).

Therefore he transmitted to the whole human race not only bodily death and other penalties (consequences of sin), but also sin itself as the death of the soul (peccatum quod mors est animae).

Here the Council of Trent uses an observation of St. Paul in the Letter to the Romans. The Synod of Carthage had already referred to it, repeating a teaching already widespread in the Church.

Letter to the Romans the Apostle wrote: "By one man's disobedience all became sinners" (Rom 5:19), and in the preceding verse: "One man's trespass led to condemnation for all men" (Rom 5:18). St. Paul connects the sinful situation of all humanity with the fault of Adam.

The Tridentine decree contains another statement: Adam's sin is transmitted to all his descendants by generation and not merely by way of bad example. The decree states: "This sin of Adam, which by origin is unique and transmitted by generation and not by way of imitation, is present in all as proper to each" (DS 1513).

Therefore original sin is transmitted by way of natural generation. This conviction of the Church is indicated also by the practice of infant baptism, to which the conciliar decree refers. Newborn infants are incapable of committing personal sin, yet in accordance with the Church's centuries-old tradition, they are baptized shortly after birth for the remission of sin. The decree states: "They are truly baptized for the remission of sin, so that what they contracted in generation may be cleansed by regeneration" (DS 1514).

Straight from the Vatican itself

I hope this explains a little better on why I was pushing for the Christening to happen. And please realize, this is my personal belief as I have grown up with Catholic teachings. I understand that others don't believe this view at all. Chris, for example, does not believe in Purgatory (which is somewhat understandable. It is a mainly Catholic device) and believes that because Erin herself has not sinned she would go straight to heaven. Eather way... she's Christened and has been saved.
................................................................................................................................................................

Allright, back on track:
So we had Edwin Gungor preside over the christening, which was great. He was the same man who married Chris and I in the faith (we had already been legally married).

Erin's godmother is Heather Mary Ward, and her godfather is Joshua Adam Rich.

Tim and Patty hosted the lovely "swarre". It was nice and light. People were wearing sandals, no suits, just some jeans and nice shirts. It was a wonderful event and I wouldn't want it any other way. It was good that it was intimate as well. Only a very small crowd joined us, which was perfect. It was our closest people: Clayton, the Balliquoi's (and Liz's sister), and Gail. 14 total (not to cout the 2 buns in the oven or the 4 dogs outside).
We had brisket and bbq chicken (and sides). I made a georgous honey glazed lemon cake that I'm told was very good. I also made shortbread.
We ate before hand, then the Christening happened. It was wonderful. I will have to share the video Clayton took for us soon.
Afterwards some more munching and major swimming! It was good, most everyone (of the young-uns got in), except Liz and her sister.
And Erin recieved some wonderful gifts! (which I will also list soon)
It was a good day, and a great event. We are so very blessed and thankful to have such wonderful people in our lives. For those of you who are too far away to attend such an event; please know you were in our hearts. We miss you and know that you will help us keep Erin's path with God right. Thank you, everyone. We are truely blessed to have family, both near and far, praying and watching out for us. Thank you.

Erin Babbling

2010-07-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

Erin babbles away. Just thought I'd share it with everyone who can't be witness of it. She's moved to having her hand in her mouth for her to speak.

Standing the Night

2010-07-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Chris was watching Erin as she faught against sleep one night, and ... POP! She did this! So he quickly called me in to watch (and I grabbed the camera).

First Veggie!

2010-07-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

Today Erin ate her first veggie today (which is her first food other than rice). A real step in the solids. I am so proud of her, and am proud of myself because I made the food!

I have been going crazy making fresh foods for her! One of Jen's many gifts inspired me and I've been on a role since. It's so much easier than I thought, too! I just peel/core the item, then cut it into 1 inch "squares", steam it, puree it, then freeze it in an ice tray. After a day I take it out of the freezer tray, put it in individual (snack sized) plastic bags, and then put all of those in a gallon size freezer ziplock bag.

And it's super easy to heat up, just microwave one baggie worth for less than 30 seconds. Make sure it's not too hot, and it's ready to go!

I've made apple sauce, acorn squash, and roasted red bell pepper (which made the house smell delicious!)... so far! I've bought carrots, corn, and butternut squash to make as well and am soooo looking forward to it. It takes about 30 minutes to do everything, which is nice. I try and do it while Erin's awake and talk her through the steps.

But anyway, enough about the preparations: because I made the acorn squash today, she was able to have it fresh... and she loved it! she tried to clean the bowl. As you can see, she gets a bit messy, but it's all good. She loves her veggies!

Erin Says Mama

2010-07-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

Erin's been doing this for about a week now. You know how on Father's Day she said Dada? Well, now she says Mama... whenever she gets mad/upset. It's cute. Don't worry I cut out the part where I set the camera down and comforted her. She didn't cry long.

Practice Crawling

2010-07-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

Erin practices crawling in her crib.

Doin Laundry

2010-07-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

Erin likes to help me do laundry, among other chores. But laundry is her favorite (I'm pretty sure). She loves when I hold her in her Moby wrap and she gets to push the laundry cart around (I steer), and she gets to pull (with some help) and push the drawers open.
While not in the wrap she gets to help sort (before and after) and "fold".

and yes, they are clean.

Yummy Foods: Eating Rice Cereal

2010-07-14T19:09:00.000-07:00

This video is of Erin eating all her rice cereal! She just loves it (even licks the bowl clean!).

PPD on Meds

2010-07-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

So I'm on meds now, my 3rd day. Just Welbutrion. I'm a little worried about how it'll affect Erin. I'm doing better, but, you know, since I've had it around me I've been doing better.

The only problem is my milk supply... it is extremely low! It hurts so much when she gets to the end of her feeding. Almost like a needle. I'm trying to be good and drink and eat more, but it's really hard. It's hard to remember, and it's hard to get time sometimes to do anything, let alone eat. I don't know. I know my doctor (Sorenson) reccomended Zoloft because it has little/no effect on her. Welbutron's not supposed to be bad for her, but I'm supposed to watch her attitude (if she becomes docile, non attentive, and whatnot). I didn't know that until today, oye. I'm a bit worried. I need to tell her doctor (first thing tomorrow).

---

Sometimes, when Chris puts her to sleep and she's crying so hard and then she suddenly stops... it scares me. Because I know how frustraiting it is, and I know how tightly he holds her. I worry. I get scared.

---

Life is getting better. I'm just worried... and low.

I did get a sudden high, but now I've leveled off, still in a funk... but not as dangerous. Last tuesday I still wanted to run away. I fought the urge badly over a couple of days but now I'm better. I've been talking things over with Chris a lot more. And things are getting better with communication.

5 Months!

2010-07-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Erin is growing up so fast! Today she turned 5 months old! OMG! She's growing up so fast! She's eating cereal, sitting up, and trying so hard to walk (avoiding crawling mainly).

I hope you've enjoyed the pictures so far! There are so many and she's only just 5 months.
Today was much like any other, but Chris was able to stay home a little longer (working a night shift right now) and spend time with her.

Otherwise she got to spend the day at home (we went briefly through the drive through at lunch). A good day overall. Even the girls wished her happy birthday.

Oh, and we made zuchinni bread.

Solids on Cereal

2010-07-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

So today we started the cereal, one day shy of her 5 month birthday. It gives me mixed feelings. I'm glad, and I know she's ready for it (probably has been for a while) because all the signs are there. But I'm also sad because it's another step of her growing up so quickly. I'm not ready for this day, but Chris has been hounding me (slightly pressuring me) to let her eat solids. So... today has come. I've let her eat the one rice rusk for the last few days, so she's ready.
I'm sad because Chris wasn't there to witness it, and I didn't take video. I'll have to video her later. It wasn't really a full meal, it was just a taste.

POST NOTE (7/10): Erin only ate a few bites yesterday, and today she ate the whole bowl, daddy was home to witness it after we started... still no video.

On to Solids

2010-07-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today we started solids!

Well, in a way... There are these things, rice rusks (by Mum-Mum), and she ate them like she tries to eat paper. She only ate a little bit at a time.

The Forth: Fireworks, Franks, and Fun!

2010-07-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

This year for the 4th of July we all went to a Tulsa Drillers baseball game, and it was a blast!

But let me start off by starting the weekend where it should be started, on Saturday (the 3rd).

So Saturday came and went, but not without some festivities. Yes, it rained, but that didn't keep us from having fun.

For Starters, Erin and I decided we'd bake some fun cupcakes for the party out at Heather and Claytons. (But I think she liked the box a bit better!) We had a fun time making the cake, and Daddy was home in time to help out, too.

Then Jen and Don came up

... and they brought gifts!

Erin even initiated Don and welcomed him into her life by spitting up on him!

Then it was time to go to Heather and Clayton's for a flamebroiling, fireworks, friends and family.

Clayton made the burgers and dogs, and then it was time for fireworks!

Erin did ... well, she is a baby. She cried, I tried to rock her to sleep but Chris ended up having to take her inside. They were nice and didn't blow off any really loud ones (Thank you for that!).

Now, we're on to the actual Fourth of July! I had sort of made plans without looking at the weather, but it all worked out for the best.
We started our day with church, then came home to play for a little bit while Chris was at work.

Jen, Don, Erin and I went to a local Mexican resteurant for lunch. Chris got off work early and met us afterwards. We were going to go swimming at Tim and Patty's but the day looked stormy, so we decided to chill. We walked around the mall a little bit then went back to Owasso.

It was soon time for the game, whick was awesome fun! It was the Drillers versus San Diego.
In the begining, Patty told Daniel B. that his seats were down front, and that he needed to ask a family to move... turned out his seats were behind everybody. It was pretty funny to watch.
So the famous chicken was there...
with his posse of chicks.
And though he got dressed to the nines for the game...
the players liked to play high-jinks on him.
Uncle Sam was there, too.
It was a good game, in spite of the on-again-off-again rain...
But, luckily, I had brought an umbrella...
Which stood out in the crowd (or lack there of).

We all decided to cower under the awening.
Erin was not liking the game, in spite of her smiles at the camera.

There were a lot of people (sold out game) and it was muggy hot, which made her uncomfortable. But she cozied up to an ice cold bottle of water (not to drink, just to play with).
In the end, the Drillers won 7-5. And then came the fireworks. By the fireworks, Erin was very tired, but she was actually a dream during them. She was curious as she peeked out from my arms and didn't cry until the ride home. It was refreshing how she reacted in contrast to the night before.
Overall, an interesting and fun 4th.

Baby Things

2010-07-05T23:30:00.000-07:00

Most of the gifts Jen and Don came in a cute little wicker basket with "baby things" embroidered on it. It was way cute (along with all the clothes and things!), and I couldn't resist.

The rattle came from them, too. Whenever I get it out she won't let it go!

Pretty in Pink... with Sheep

2010-07-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Erin has a really cute outfit, and it was perfect lighting for pictures... so add a pink sheep and... voila!

Very Hungry Catepillar

2010-07-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite "baby books" is The Very Hungry Catepillar, and I love reading it to Erin. One of her outfits had the catepillar on it (even the strawberry hat!), but she was starting to grow out of it so I had to move fast and snap a few pictures while it still fit. Enjoy! She's growing into a beautiful butterfly!

Rattle The Cage

2010-07-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

Erin loves her puppies so much, she loves tease the dogs by "rattling their cage" while their in it. Basically, she just stands and holds on with all her strength, but since her balance is still being worked on she slightly wiggles back and forth trying to maintain it. But it's majorly cute and the dogs just try to ignore it.