Friday, August 5, 2011
Sunday, July 10, 2011
The last time
I had no idea that this morning would be the last time I breastfed my son.
He went to bed last night & only nursed on one side & it was just for a minute or two. I thought it was odd, but I kinda just assumed he'd wake up in a bit & remember that he wanted a full belly before he STTN. He didn't wake up until his normal morning time nursing session. I took him into my bed & nursed him for a bit, but again it was just 1 side. I wasn't concerned since my other nipple feels like he's been chewing thru it right now.
That was the last time he nursed. Around 8 am this morning. He never asked for milk all day long. He took 2 naps & went right to sleep without any milk. He drank his cup milk throughout the day. When bedtime came I asked him if he was tired. He walked to his bedroom; I followed. I scooped him up, gave him the pacifier, turned on his music & turned off the lights, layed him in his crib, tucked the blankets in around him & left the room.
I feel full and painful right now. A little bit sad. A little bit free. I feel like nursing my babies is something I'm really good at... I hope I get the opportunity to do it with 1 more baby. Only time will tell...
He went to bed last night & only nursed on one side & it was just for a minute or two. I thought it was odd, but I kinda just assumed he'd wake up in a bit & remember that he wanted a full belly before he STTN. He didn't wake up until his normal morning time nursing session. I took him into my bed & nursed him for a bit, but again it was just 1 side. I wasn't concerned since my other nipple feels like he's been chewing thru it right now.
That was the last time he nursed. Around 8 am this morning. He never asked for milk all day long. He took 2 naps & went right to sleep without any milk. He drank his cup milk throughout the day. When bedtime came I asked him if he was tired. He walked to his bedroom; I followed. I scooped him up, gave him the pacifier, turned on his music & turned off the lights, layed him in his crib, tucked the blankets in around him & left the room.
I feel full and painful right now. A little bit sad. A little bit free. I feel like nursing my babies is something I'm really good at... I hope I get the opportunity to do it with 1 more baby. Only time will tell...
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Bartleby
Bartleby was the coolest dog I've ever known.
When Chris & I started dating we immediately moved in together & started talking about getting a dog. We did a lot of research & he decided he really wanted a Newfoundland. One Friday I was looking online at a local rescue that only does adoptions on Saturdays & they listed that they had 4 Newfie mix puppies. I convinced Chris we should go check them out. So that morning we drove up to the shelter, waited for them to open, we were the 1st ones up to the pen with the Newfies in there & we got 1st pick of the litter. There were 2 puppies up at the front checking out all the people, 1 puppy cowering in the back & 1 in the middle just doing his own thing. We picked the puppy in the middle. They brought him to a little pen for us to get to know him. Chris & I each sat on the ground & we let the puppy come to us when he was ready. He crawled up into my lap, snuggled in & took a nap. I was hooked. He was a rolly polly ball of black fluff. We packed him into Chris's Ford Ranger & he sat on the center console between the two of us. On the drive home we discussed names and agreed, he was Bartleby. (from the movie Dogma)
We took Bartleby a lot of places. His 1st trip with us was to the pet store of course (he peed on the floor). But some of the more memorable trips were the camping trip when we tried to teach him to swim & he ran away & hid under a truck. Or the the time we took him to Long Island & he tried to swim to Conneticut! There was also the time we took him to Kentucky... we stayed in a hotel & got 2 beds so Bartleby would have a comfortable place to sleep. We had to force him on to the bed & as soon as we ignored him, he jumped back down onto the floor.
Bartleby was smart. He always knew his place in the world & he was content being in his place. He knew plenty of commands, but he also invented his own tricks. When I dropped something on the floor and said "uh-oh" he would pick it up for me every time. This morphed into him randomly finding things out of place and bringing them to me too... even food that had fallen out of the pantry! He knew that dogs don't belong in the kitchen when humans are eating. He knew that cats are to be respected and ignored. He knew that small babies are dnagerous, but big kids are fun. He loved everyone. A friend of mine once said "Bartleby, you're just like your mom; You love everyone!". Bartleby's love is what motivated me to become a vet tech. The only job I ever truly loved, all because of the dog I loved.
Bartleby turned 10 this month and he was headed down hill. He's been slower, gassier, and just not himself. The other day he stopped eating. Then he started to vomit up his water. When he got up today he struggled to walk and my heart broke. I knew it was time to let him go, but we weren't ready. I wasn't ready to call my husband at work and tell him that we needed to euthanize our best friend. I wasn't ready to explain to my 3 year old that his dog wasn't coming home with us. But it had to be done. We took him to the hospital where I used to work. We had an old friend euthanize him while Chris & I told him he was a good dog. And when we got home Derick said "I'm so sad that Bartleby is gone".
This wound will not heal for a long time. Bartleby will be missed.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
I want to be an extreme couponer!
So I'm researching, clipping, and prepping to go to the store tomorrow... I'll update to let you know how it goes.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Egg Tooth Diapers
Are stocking today & I want to win a $2 off coupon!
http://hyenacart.com/Eggtoothdiapers/
http://hyenacart.com/Eggtoothdiapers/
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Choose The Right.
The other day my husband was telling me out the recent trouble Kobe Bryant got into. I guess he called a ref a bad name and he's being defended by his fans because they claim he was just joking around and the words he used shouldn't be taken so seriously.
I find this very alarming. It seems that in modern society people incorporate condescending language into their daily lives and think that somehow frequent usage of those words makes the words less hurtful. It's just slang after all, right?
Bitch, whore, fag, (the n word) are all inappropriate terms and should not be taken lightly in my opinion. Just because you throw these words into your daily vocabulary does not make them acceptable. I believe that the root of the problem is just that; friends laugh and have fun at another person's expense and their constant use of these words makes them complacent to the power of these words. This can create a mob-mentality and opens the door for cyber bullying. Sadly, these behaviors do cross the borders of all social groups. It is not limited to the under-educated, the youth, or any other social group.
I recently witnessed a bit of "joking" around between some women who are my online friends. We have a small, private group of friends who post regularly about very private subjects. Yesterday I discovered a discussion that left a bitter taste in my mouth. "Susie" and "Sally" were complaining that "Betty" plagiarized some of "Susie's" writings. When "Sally" questioned "Betty" as to the origin of her writings, "Betty" said she saw it somewhere & liked it so much, she decided to use it too. "Susie" and "Sally" then came back to their private group of friends and bashed "Betty" (who is not a member of the private group). They called her names like whore and skank. It was even once said by someone that they wanted her to die, but that statement was immediately altered and it was stated that in fact, no one actually wanted "Betty" to die. There were many other friends who chimed in to laugh out loud, or basically egg the bullying on.
I adamantly believe that there is no protection from being offended. It is my personal responsibility to control the information that I allow to affect me and if I do feel offended it is my responsibility to remove myself from the situation. But on the other hand, I could no sit by and let these women, my friends, continue spewing such hateful things. I had to speak up. Here is what I wrote (edited for anonymity)...
"I'm probably going to get bashed for this but I have to say it... this thread makes me really uncomfortable. Imitation is supposed to be the highest form of flattery. IMO you should be flattered that your (writings) made such an impression on that mama that she remembered it & wanted to use it herself. To bash her so thoroughly and call her such hateful names seems very immature & clique-ish.
I enjoy being a part of this group when we can stand together as women/mothers/wives and encourage each other to live our lives as honest people and support each other when the going gets rough. I won't participate when the mob mentality kicks in. This thread crosses a line for me."
I can't be sure how my words were "heard", but I can tell you my intention was to put a stop to the behavior without sounding bossy or mean. I wanted to encourage my friends to step it up and be leaders, not to drag each other down. Sadly, I did not receive the response I had hoped for. I was told that they were just joking around, it was all in good fun, and that basically I should be okay with it too because they are all sitting there behind their computers laughing at the screens.
WHICH IS EXACTLY THE PROBLEM WITH OUR SOCIETY! Just because you are having fun, doesn't make it right. *sigh* I'm glad I swallowed my fear of speaking out & said what I did. I'm sad that my friends aren't the women I thought they were. I hope we can move past this and continue our friendships... only time will tell.
I find this very alarming. It seems that in modern society people incorporate condescending language into their daily lives and think that somehow frequent usage of those words makes the words less hurtful. It's just slang after all, right?
Bitch, whore, fag, (the n word) are all inappropriate terms and should not be taken lightly in my opinion. Just because you throw these words into your daily vocabulary does not make them acceptable. I believe that the root of the problem is just that; friends laugh and have fun at another person's expense and their constant use of these words makes them complacent to the power of these words. This can create a mob-mentality and opens the door for cyber bullying. Sadly, these behaviors do cross the borders of all social groups. It is not limited to the under-educated, the youth, or any other social group.
I recently witnessed a bit of "joking" around between some women who are my online friends. We have a small, private group of friends who post regularly about very private subjects. Yesterday I discovered a discussion that left a bitter taste in my mouth. "Susie" and "Sally" were complaining that "Betty" plagiarized some of "Susie's" writings. When "Sally" questioned "Betty" as to the origin of her writings, "Betty" said she saw it somewhere & liked it so much, she decided to use it too. "Susie" and "Sally" then came back to their private group of friends and bashed "Betty" (who is not a member of the private group). They called her names like whore and skank. It was even once said by someone that they wanted her to die, but that statement was immediately altered and it was stated that in fact, no one actually wanted "Betty" to die. There were many other friends who chimed in to laugh out loud, or basically egg the bullying on.
I adamantly believe that there is no protection from being offended. It is my personal responsibility to control the information that I allow to affect me and if I do feel offended it is my responsibility to remove myself from the situation. But on the other hand, I could no sit by and let these women, my friends, continue spewing such hateful things. I had to speak up. Here is what I wrote (edited for anonymity)...
"I'm probably going to get bashed for this but I have to say it... this thread makes me really uncomfortable. Imitation is supposed to be the highest form of flattery. IMO you should be flattered that your (writings) made such an impression on that mama that she remembered it & wanted to use it herself. To bash her so thoroughly and call her such hateful names seems very immature & clique-ish.
I enjoy being a part of this group when we can stand together as women/mothers/wives and encourage each other to live our lives as honest people and support each other when the going gets rough. I won't participate when the mob mentality kicks in. This thread crosses a line for me."
I can't be sure how my words were "heard", but I can tell you my intention was to put a stop to the behavior without sounding bossy or mean. I wanted to encourage my friends to step it up and be leaders, not to drag each other down. Sadly, I did not receive the response I had hoped for. I was told that they were just joking around, it was all in good fun, and that basically I should be okay with it too because they are all sitting there behind their computers laughing at the screens.
WHICH IS EXACTLY THE PROBLEM WITH OUR SOCIETY! Just because you are having fun, doesn't make it right. *sigh* I'm glad I swallowed my fear of speaking out & said what I did. I'm sad that my friends aren't the women I thought they were. I hope we can move past this and continue our friendships... only time will tell.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
FREE diapers from Baby Half Off!
Ooooohhh - I totally want to win free cloth diapers from Baby Half Off!
Check it out!
Check it out!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Sleep training
Straight up, I'm pretty much against sleep training babies. I think you need to let babies develop healthy sleep patterns naturally. I think it's really sad that so many babies are pushed to all develop on the same schedule with the same patterns. Are we really trying to shape a society of clones?
So I guess I lucked out with Derick. He was a really great sleeper right from the start. He quickly found his groove and would easily sleep 12-14 hours a night when he was just 1 year old. He is still a great sleeper. He doesn't nap anymore but he does like to sleep in. If he does get up early he will either play quietly on his own or just go back to bed.
Mr. Warren is a whole different story here! At one year old he still has been waking up to nurse 3-6x a night. Most nights he hates to be put to bed and he frequently wakes up way too early. So I decided that it was time to seek out some guidance on sleep training. And after talking with some friends, I found this article.
Right off the bat I was intrigued because this doctor is a strong proponant of things that are very important to me... he does not support sleep training of young babies, he does support extended breast feeding and safe co-sleeping. As I read on I realized that his method of sleep training was very similar to what I had already been doing with Warren, he just put it all together into a set schedule. It was exactly what I needed to hear & I was determined to give it a whirl.
Tonight is night 3 of Warren's sleep training. Before I began this program Warren was fighting sleep to the point of screaming for up to an hour and a half when I tried to put him to bed and again when he woke up in the middle of the night. Tonight, he went to sleep quickly and quietly. So quickly in fact that he only nursed on one side instead of two! Last night he only woke up to feed twice and he slept in until 9:30 am!
Dr. Jay Gordon says that we should establish designated off hours for feeding. Our off hours are now 1 am - 8 am. I'm thrilled at the thought of being able to have these 7 hours to myself for peaceful sleep! I'll keep you updated and let you know if it works.
So I guess I lucked out with Derick. He was a really great sleeper right from the start. He quickly found his groove and would easily sleep 12-14 hours a night when he was just 1 year old. He is still a great sleeper. He doesn't nap anymore but he does like to sleep in. If he does get up early he will either play quietly on his own or just go back to bed.
Mr. Warren is a whole different story here! At one year old he still has been waking up to nurse 3-6x a night. Most nights he hates to be put to bed and he frequently wakes up way too early. So I decided that it was time to seek out some guidance on sleep training. And after talking with some friends, I found this article.
Right off the bat I was intrigued because this doctor is a strong proponant of things that are very important to me... he does not support sleep training of young babies, he does support extended breast feeding and safe co-sleeping. As I read on I realized that his method of sleep training was very similar to what I had already been doing with Warren, he just put it all together into a set schedule. It was exactly what I needed to hear & I was determined to give it a whirl.
Tonight is night 3 of Warren's sleep training. Before I began this program Warren was fighting sleep to the point of screaming for up to an hour and a half when I tried to put him to bed and again when he woke up in the middle of the night. Tonight, he went to sleep quickly and quietly. So quickly in fact that he only nursed on one side instead of two! Last night he only woke up to feed twice and he slept in until 9:30 am!
Dr. Jay Gordon says that we should establish designated off hours for feeding. Our off hours are now 1 am - 8 am. I'm thrilled at the thought of being able to have these 7 hours to myself for peaceful sleep! I'll keep you updated and let you know if it works.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Diapers are coming!
I'm totally stalking my mailman.
I wish he'd hurry up... Here's what I'm expecting...
2 custom Full Tilt AI2s!
2 Lil Pooligans custom Poo-n-Twos!
I wish he'd hurry up... Here's what I'm expecting...
2 custom Full Tilt AI2s!
2 Lil Pooligans custom Poo-n-Twos!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Things. By Christine
That's right... Things. By Christine is doing another giveaway! She'll be giving away 2 50% off coupons when she hits 1500 likers on Facebook! Go - Like her - enter her giveaway - buy cute hats!
Monday, February 14, 2011
From the mouth of a 3 and a half year old...
Last night my son diligently ate his entire chicken quesadilla dinner! So while Daddy went to start the bath, I cleaned up the baby & went to get Derick a popsicle.
In the daze of my cold I vaguely heard him complaining that his mouth was spicy & heard him gulping down his water. As I handed him his popsicle he asked "is that for me???". "Of course, silly!" I replied, "You ate all your dinner, didn't you?". It was at this time that I realized the only thing left on his plate was a puddle of salsa.
OH NO! I gasped and quickly asked him if he had been eating spoonfuls of salsa thinking that it was a requirement of our "eat everything on your plate if you want dessert" rule.
"Yesh" was his reply, "and it's really picey!"
Oh my sweet poor boy! Such a good kid... I had to run off & laugh hysterically with Daddy.
In the daze of my cold I vaguely heard him complaining that his mouth was spicy & heard him gulping down his water. As I handed him his popsicle he asked "is that for me???". "Of course, silly!" I replied, "You ate all your dinner, didn't you?". It was at this time that I realized the only thing left on his plate was a puddle of salsa.
OH NO! I gasped and quickly asked him if he had been eating spoonfuls of salsa thinking that it was a requirement of our "eat everything on your plate if you want dessert" rule.
"Yesh" was his reply, "and it's really picey!"
Oh my sweet poor boy! Such a good kid... I had to run off & laugh hysterically with Daddy.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
30 day photo challenge
Day 01 - A Picture of Yourself and Ten Facts.
1. I stay up too late
2. The highest my blood pressure has ever been was 200/100 (I almost died)
3. I used to be double jointed but now I’m too old
4. I can touch my tongue to my nose
5. I've been a vegetarian for most of my life (22 years and counting)
6. I like to sew
7. I love to bake
8. I have 5 tattoos, but I want a lot more
9. I am the eldest sibling in my family and I'm the only girl
10. I wear my baby, cloth diaper him, and he’s never had formula
Day 02 - A Picture of You and the Person You have been Closest with the Longest
My husband and I in Vegas ~2004
Day 03 - A Picture of the Cast from Your Favorite Show.
Although it's no longer on, Lost was the best show of all time.
Day 04 - A Picture of Your Night
Like most cold & snowy nights, I'm sitting on my couch next to a warm fire
Day 05 - A Picture of Your Favorite Memory
As today is Valentine's Day, it's fitting that one of my favorite memories is of my wedding. A beautiful sunny day in September 2003, on Long Island, NY. Here is Chris and I in a classic old Ford being chauffeured from the ceremony to our reception site.
Day 06 - A Picture of a Person You'd Love to Trade places with for a day
I'd like to trade places with my friend Charlie for a day... he lives a crazy fun life & it would be nice to be him (just for a day).
Day 07 - A Picture of Your Childhood Crush
Shocking, I know, but I've had a good number of crushes ;-) Here's a picture of my 6th grade class. All decked out in full 6th grade puppy love style....
Day 08 - A Picture that makes you Laugh
That last picture really makes me laugh, so I struggled for a bit to think of another one that can always make me chuckle. Finally, I remembered one... This is Derick at 13 months old. I had just given him his 1st Oreo cookie. He loved it and asked for more. I told him no. Obviously he was not pleased. I ran to get the camera. Priceless!
Day 09 - A Picture of the Person who has gotten You through the most
My mom really has tried hard to always be there for me.
Day 10 - A Picture of the Person You do the oddest things with
Maybe I'm a really boring, bland person, but I just don't do odd things... unless you can consider barking like a dog, growling like a dinosaur, and playing with Play-Doh as "odd". In that case, here's my boy!
Day 11 - A Picture of something You Hate
I hate girls who think they are princesses. I've never had the princess in me and I just don't understand how it's okay to think you are better or more important than everyone else. Blech! You make me sick.
Day 12 - A Picture of something You Love
I love dogs. Big ones, little ones... especially fuzzy ones! This is a picture of my dog, Bartleby. He's ~115lbs, 10 years old, Newfoundland mix & a big old love bug.
Day 13 - A Picture of Your favorite Band or Artist
Day 14 - A Picture of Someone You could never Imagine Your Life without
I can imagine my life without my 3 boys, but I don't like to! They are my everything. I love my family and there is nothing that will pull us apart.
Day 15 - A Picture of something You want to do before You Die
I want to see the aurora borealis...
Day 16 - A Picture of someone who Inspires You
Day 17 - A Picture of something that has made a huge Impact on Your Life recently
Babywearing has had a huge impact on my life... it's what allows me to take care of 2 small boys and keep my sanity. I can get out into the world & always know the baby is safe & happy wrapped up on my back. He'll sleep there for hours. I can snuggle him & still have my hands free to take care of Derick. Babywearing is a life saver.
Day 18 - A Picture of Your biggest Insecurity
Day 19 - A Picture and a Letter
Dear Bartleby, Simba and Doublestuff Fluffernutter
Your incessant inside/outside routine is making me crazy. I am not your personal servant sent here to open the door for your every whim. I'm busy! Sometimes I'm feeding the baby, getting the toddler dressed, going to the bathroom, or if I'm lucky, SLEEPING. So stop begging/crying/barking/meowing/scratching to go inside and/or outside. Just be happy with where you're at for a few hours please!
Love, Caley
Day 20 - A Picture of somewhere You'd Love to Travel
Day 21 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Forget
Day 22 - A Picture of something You Wish You were better at
Day 23 - A Picture of Your favorite Book
Day 24 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Change
Really, mine aren't this bad. But they feel this bad! I look at myself and all I see are giant boobs. I so desperately want to have reduction surgery, but I don't want to risk being unable to breastfeed any other children we might have. As soon as we are done having kids though... I'll be going under the knife.
Day 25 - A Picture of Your day
Today my Storchenweige Leo Bordeaux ring sling came! I wrapped up Warren and within minuets he was asleep. Baby snuggles are just the best.
Day 26 - A Picture of Something that means a lot to You
The most important thing to me is my family.
Day 27 - A Picture of Yourself and a Family Member
Here I am 7 months pregnant and with my 3 brothers!
Day 28 - A Picture of Something You're Afraid of
Underwater lake plants. *shudder*
Day 29 - A Picture that can always make you smile.
This is a Leonberger. I want one!
Day 30 - A Picture of someone You Miss
I miss my sweet Dal, Darla... She was the sweetest Dalmatian in the world RIP
1. I stay up too late
2. The highest my blood pressure has ever been was 200/100 (I almost died)
3. I used to be double jointed but now I’m too old
4. I can touch my tongue to my nose
5. I've been a vegetarian for most of my life (22 years and counting)
6. I like to sew
7. I love to bake
8. I have 5 tattoos, but I want a lot more
9. I am the eldest sibling in my family and I'm the only girl
10. I wear my baby, cloth diaper him, and he’s never had formula
Day 02 - A Picture of You and the Person You have been Closest with the Longest
My husband and I in Vegas ~2004
Day 03 - A Picture of the Cast from Your Favorite Show.
Although it's no longer on, Lost was the best show of all time.
Day 04 - A Picture of Your Night
Like most cold & snowy nights, I'm sitting on my couch next to a warm fire
Day 05 - A Picture of Your Favorite Memory
As today is Valentine's Day, it's fitting that one of my favorite memories is of my wedding. A beautiful sunny day in September 2003, on Long Island, NY. Here is Chris and I in a classic old Ford being chauffeured from the ceremony to our reception site.
Day 06 - A Picture of a Person You'd Love to Trade places with for a day
I'd like to trade places with my friend Charlie for a day... he lives a crazy fun life & it would be nice to be him (just for a day).
Day 07 - A Picture of Your Childhood Crush
Shocking, I know, but I've had a good number of crushes ;-) Here's a picture of my 6th grade class. All decked out in full 6th grade puppy love style....
Day 08 - A Picture that makes you Laugh
That last picture really makes me laugh, so I struggled for a bit to think of another one that can always make me chuckle. Finally, I remembered one... This is Derick at 13 months old. I had just given him his 1st Oreo cookie. He loved it and asked for more. I told him no. Obviously he was not pleased. I ran to get the camera. Priceless!
Day 09 - A Picture of the Person who has gotten You through the most
My mom really has tried hard to always be there for me.
Day 10 - A Picture of the Person You do the oddest things with
Maybe I'm a really boring, bland person, but I just don't do odd things... unless you can consider barking like a dog, growling like a dinosaur, and playing with Play-Doh as "odd". In that case, here's my boy!
Day 11 - A Picture of something You Hate
I hate girls who think they are princesses. I've never had the princess in me and I just don't understand how it's okay to think you are better or more important than everyone else. Blech! You make me sick.
Day 12 - A Picture of something You Love
I love dogs. Big ones, little ones... especially fuzzy ones! This is a picture of my dog, Bartleby. He's ~115lbs, 10 years old, Newfoundland mix & a big old love bug.
Day 13 - A Picture of Your favorite Band or Artist
Day 14 - A Picture of Someone You could never Imagine Your Life without
I can imagine my life without my 3 boys, but I don't like to! They are my everything. I love my family and there is nothing that will pull us apart.
Day 15 - A Picture of something You want to do before You Die
I want to see the aurora borealis...
Day 16 - A Picture of someone who Inspires You
Day 17 - A Picture of something that has made a huge Impact on Your Life recently
Babywearing has had a huge impact on my life... it's what allows me to take care of 2 small boys and keep my sanity. I can get out into the world & always know the baby is safe & happy wrapped up on my back. He'll sleep there for hours. I can snuggle him & still have my hands free to take care of Derick. Babywearing is a life saver.
Day 18 - A Picture of Your biggest Insecurity
Day 19 - A Picture and a Letter
Dear Bartleby, Simba and Doublestuff Fluffernutter
Your incessant inside/outside routine is making me crazy. I am not your personal servant sent here to open the door for your every whim. I'm busy! Sometimes I'm feeding the baby, getting the toddler dressed, going to the bathroom, or if I'm lucky, SLEEPING. So stop begging/crying/barking/meowing/scratching to go inside and/or outside. Just be happy with where you're at for a few hours please!
Love, Caley
Day 20 - A Picture of somewhere You'd Love to Travel
Day 21 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Forget
Day 22 - A Picture of something You Wish You were better at
Day 23 - A Picture of Your favorite Book
Day 24 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Change
Really, mine aren't this bad. But they feel this bad! I look at myself and all I see are giant boobs. I so desperately want to have reduction surgery, but I don't want to risk being unable to breastfeed any other children we might have. As soon as we are done having kids though... I'll be going under the knife.
Day 25 - A Picture of Your day
Today my Storchenweige Leo Bordeaux ring sling came! I wrapped up Warren and within minuets he was asleep. Baby snuggles are just the best.
Day 26 - A Picture of Something that means a lot to You
The most important thing to me is my family.
Day 27 - A Picture of Yourself and a Family Member
Here I am 7 months pregnant and with my 3 brothers!
Day 28 - A Picture of Something You're Afraid of
Underwater lake plants. *shudder*
Day 29 - A Picture that can always make you smile.
This is a Leonberger. I want one!
Day 30 - A Picture of someone You Miss
I miss my sweet Dal, Darla... She was the sweetest Dalmatian in the world RIP
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Things. By Christine
Check out these super cute hats!!!!
I'm trying to win an owl hat - you can too if you "like" her on FB & find the post & follow directions! Easy peasy!
Things. By Christine
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
Reflections on 2010
I'd like to focus on the MANY good things that happened for me and my family in 2010.
January: I quit my job to become a stay-at-home-mom! SAHM is a dream job for me. It's what I've wanted to do my whole life. I'm so grateful that I was able to do this in January, because I was able to spend 1 month at home with just me & Derick. This was a really special time for us to be together before Warren was born.
February: Accomplishment #1 is that I was able to carry a baby to full term! After having an emergency induction with Derick at 36 weeks I was thrilled to be able to keep Warren safe and warm until 2 days before his due date. Accomplishment #2 was the expansion of our family to 4! Warren was born happy & healthy. We had a very short stay at the hospital and were able to come home to be together as a family. I was also lucky enough to have both my Mom & my Mother in Law available to come visit and help around the house.
March: Derick was finally 100% potty trained! I say finally, because it always feels like diapering a child is such a long and tedious process, but in fact, he potty trained very early. This was just the start of many new Big Boy accomplishments for Derick. He's an amazing child, so loving, friendly, smart and respectful. I love him with all of my heart.
April: was spent at home. Doing what we do best - being a family together.
May: was when I learned to wrap a baby! When Derick was small I was always wearing him, but I wore him in a bag sling, a soft structured carrier, a mei tai - I had been intimidated with wrapping and never tried. In May, Chris bought me a Mother's Day/Birthday combo gift - my 1st woven wrap! It was Dolcino Male 5.4m - a lovely, soft, neutral wrap. I quickly discovered that wrapping a baby is THE way to go.
June and July were a blur. Caring for a young baby and a toddler in the heat is rough, but we made it thru. I also started to teach myself to sew....
August was Derick's 3rd birthday and on his birthday our extended famliy all came together to celebrate. It also so happened to be my brother's wedding rehersal. Joel and Natalie were married and we were all part of the wedding party. I never imagined I'd be a bridesmaid at 32 years old! I was really out of my element, but I tried really hard to go with the flow and I think I did a decent job in the end. I beg of you though... if you are reading this and considering asking me to be a part of your wedding... PLEASE find someone else! I really don't enjoy all the pressure that comes with being in someone else's wedding.
September we spent all of our focus on getting some finances in order. Reducing our income so severely this year finally caught up with us and we weren't going to make it unless we got some help. Our mortgage has now been refinanced and we are feeling a lot more comfortable. Of course I'm still significantly delinquent on my student loans, but that's something to tackle in 2011.
October was so much fun preparing for Halloween! Both boys dressed as skeletons for Halloween and were just adorable. Derick had a blast getting ready for Halloween. We went to the pumpkin patch frequently to play with the toys, go thru the maze and just hang out with the pumpkins. We baked pies, pumpkin cake, pumpkin pancakes and pumpkin seeds at home. Daddy and Derick carved pumpkins together.
November was our road trip. We took our 1st family road trip and drove 4,000 miles round trip. We took I80 across the country to New Hampshire where we spent 2 days with Nana & Pop Pop. It was so wonderful to see my grandparents and my children together. My cousins Ed and Chris were all grown up and it was so much fun getting to know them as adults. After we left New Hampshire, we drove down to Long Island and spent almost a week with my Mom. We were able to take Derick on the ferry boat, and show him the lighthouse where we were married. We had lobster dinner and drank local wines. It was heavenly. Both boys were so well behaved on the trip. They slept well in the car and adjusted to life on the road. They were pleasant and happy when they met new family memebers. I couldn't have asked for a better trip.
And that brings us to December. This month I taught myself to knit! We had a wonderful Christmas surrounded by family. But more importantly we've been told there will be 2 new additions to the family next year! Both Joel & Natalie & Scott & Kelly are expecting babies in August 2011. I'm so happy for my brothers.
I hope 2011 is prosperous for all my friends, my family, and myself. I plan to expand my skills - continue to learn new things - seek for additional ways to contribute to my family. Do my best to take care of the people I love.
Happy New Year 2011!
January: I quit my job to become a stay-at-home-mom! SAHM is a dream job for me. It's what I've wanted to do my whole life. I'm so grateful that I was able to do this in January, because I was able to spend 1 month at home with just me & Derick. This was a really special time for us to be together before Warren was born.
February: Accomplishment #1 is that I was able to carry a baby to full term! After having an emergency induction with Derick at 36 weeks I was thrilled to be able to keep Warren safe and warm until 2 days before his due date. Accomplishment #2 was the expansion of our family to 4! Warren was born happy & healthy. We had a very short stay at the hospital and were able to come home to be together as a family. I was also lucky enough to have both my Mom & my Mother in Law available to come visit and help around the house.
March: Derick was finally 100% potty trained! I say finally, because it always feels like diapering a child is such a long and tedious process, but in fact, he potty trained very early. This was just the start of many new Big Boy accomplishments for Derick. He's an amazing child, so loving, friendly, smart and respectful. I love him with all of my heart.
April: was spent at home. Doing what we do best - being a family together.
May: was when I learned to wrap a baby! When Derick was small I was always wearing him, but I wore him in a bag sling, a soft structured carrier, a mei tai - I had been intimidated with wrapping and never tried. In May, Chris bought me a Mother's Day/Birthday combo gift - my 1st woven wrap! It was Dolcino Male 5.4m - a lovely, soft, neutral wrap. I quickly discovered that wrapping a baby is THE way to go.
June and July were a blur. Caring for a young baby and a toddler in the heat is rough, but we made it thru. I also started to teach myself to sew....
August was Derick's 3rd birthday and on his birthday our extended famliy all came together to celebrate. It also so happened to be my brother's wedding rehersal. Joel and Natalie were married and we were all part of the wedding party. I never imagined I'd be a bridesmaid at 32 years old! I was really out of my element, but I tried really hard to go with the flow and I think I did a decent job in the end. I beg of you though... if you are reading this and considering asking me to be a part of your wedding... PLEASE find someone else! I really don't enjoy all the pressure that comes with being in someone else's wedding.
September we spent all of our focus on getting some finances in order. Reducing our income so severely this year finally caught up with us and we weren't going to make it unless we got some help. Our mortgage has now been refinanced and we are feeling a lot more comfortable. Of course I'm still significantly delinquent on my student loans, but that's something to tackle in 2011.
October was so much fun preparing for Halloween! Both boys dressed as skeletons for Halloween and were just adorable. Derick had a blast getting ready for Halloween. We went to the pumpkin patch frequently to play with the toys, go thru the maze and just hang out with the pumpkins. We baked pies, pumpkin cake, pumpkin pancakes and pumpkin seeds at home. Daddy and Derick carved pumpkins together.
November was our road trip. We took our 1st family road trip and drove 4,000 miles round trip. We took I80 across the country to New Hampshire where we spent 2 days with Nana & Pop Pop. It was so wonderful to see my grandparents and my children together. My cousins Ed and Chris were all grown up and it was so much fun getting to know them as adults. After we left New Hampshire, we drove down to Long Island and spent almost a week with my Mom. We were able to take Derick on the ferry boat, and show him the lighthouse where we were married. We had lobster dinner and drank local wines. It was heavenly. Both boys were so well behaved on the trip. They slept well in the car and adjusted to life on the road. They were pleasant and happy when they met new family memebers. I couldn't have asked for a better trip.
And that brings us to December. This month I taught myself to knit! We had a wonderful Christmas surrounded by family. But more importantly we've been told there will be 2 new additions to the family next year! Both Joel & Natalie & Scott & Kelly are expecting babies in August 2011. I'm so happy for my brothers.
I hope 2011 is prosperous for all my friends, my family, and myself. I plan to expand my skills - continue to learn new things - seek for additional ways to contribute to my family. Do my best to take care of the people I love.
Happy New Year 2011!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Insecure
Here it is... I think no one likes me. Really and truly. I can remember being a small child & feeling like my friends didn't really like me. I was probably only 7 or 8 years old when I hid in the woods and listened as my friends and family didn't look for me. That proved it for me. No one would care if I was gone.
When I turned 18 and my father walked out on us I begged him to keep me in his life. He didn't. If my own father doesn't like me, how could anyone else like me?
So now I'm an adult... I have a husband, 2 children... a couple of failed careers... Most of my friends are online because it's easier that way. I never have to worry if they like me or not. They aren't "real", so I can accept the fact that they don't like me. It doesn't hurt as much.
What does hurt is when I feel like my family doesn't like me. Every time they plan a get-together and don't call to invite me my insecurities are reaffirmed. Every time I invite my brothers to do something and they don't bring their wives, my heart breaks because I KNOW they don't like me.
And every time I talk to my husband about how I feel & he gets mad and yells at me and tells me it's my own fault and I'm ruining things for him... Well, it makes me think that he doesn't like me either.
Yes, I'm feeling sorry for myself. Yes, I sound overly dramatic right now. But yes, this is how I really feel. These are my real fears and insecurities. This is what brings me to tears. And I don't know how to get past it.
I'm scared of the day when I start to feel like my own children don't like me.
When I turned 18 and my father walked out on us I begged him to keep me in his life. He didn't. If my own father doesn't like me, how could anyone else like me?
So now I'm an adult... I have a husband, 2 children... a couple of failed careers... Most of my friends are online because it's easier that way. I never have to worry if they like me or not. They aren't "real", so I can accept the fact that they don't like me. It doesn't hurt as much.
What does hurt is when I feel like my family doesn't like me. Every time they plan a get-together and don't call to invite me my insecurities are reaffirmed. Every time I invite my brothers to do something and they don't bring their wives, my heart breaks because I KNOW they don't like me.
And every time I talk to my husband about how I feel & he gets mad and yells at me and tells me it's my own fault and I'm ruining things for him... Well, it makes me think that he doesn't like me either.
Yes, I'm feeling sorry for myself. Yes, I sound overly dramatic right now. But yes, this is how I really feel. These are my real fears and insecurities. This is what brings me to tears. And I don't know how to get past it.
I'm scared of the day when I start to feel like my own children don't like me.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Eli Monster ROCKS!
And I want to win a diaper cover!
Go to this blog to win....
http://theelimonster.blogspot.com/2010/11/birthday-giveaway.html
Go to this blog to win....
http://theelimonster.blogspot.com/2010/11/birthday-giveaway.html
Friday, November 12, 2010
Nap time
Nap time seems to be the hardest part of my day lately. Poor little Warren just doesn't know what is best for him. He fights & fights to stay awake and then he gets so tired he just doesn't know what to do with himself. He cries when I try to nurse him, he cries when I hold him, he cries when I put him on the couch, the floor, the exersaucer, and he screams bloody murder when I put him in his crib.
Everyone says that consistency is the key. I never learned consistency and it's really difficult for me to practcie consisentcy in my daily life. I let the kids sleep in as late as they want and we take our days as they come. I let patterns arrise naturally and allow them to change as needed. I like to live a fluid and organic life.
Where I do bring consitency into play is when my children need discipline and guidence. Chris & I map out specific rules and follow thru with the consequences of breaking those rules. And when sleepy Warren is crying and just won't tolerate anything, I have to put him in his bed and let him cry for a few minutes so he understands, now is nap time.
Ahhhh... I think he just got it. He stopped crying. He's such a good little boy. I hope I'm doing right by him and raising him to be a smart, productive, hard working member of society.
Everyone says that consistency is the key. I never learned consistency and it's really difficult for me to practcie consisentcy in my daily life. I let the kids sleep in as late as they want and we take our days as they come. I let patterns arrise naturally and allow them to change as needed. I like to live a fluid and organic life.
Where I do bring consitency into play is when my children need discipline and guidence. Chris & I map out specific rules and follow thru with the consequences of breaking those rules. And when sleepy Warren is crying and just won't tolerate anything, I have to put him in his bed and let him cry for a few minutes so he understands, now is nap time.
Ahhhh... I think he just got it. He stopped crying. He's such a good little boy. I hope I'm doing right by him and raising him to be a smart, productive, hard working member of society.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
"Avoiding the Mom haircut"
I just saw a headline on Yahoo that said "Avoiding the Mom haircut". What is this??? I've heard "Mom jeans" are bad. I know "Mom-mobiles" are bad. Is there anything good about being a Mom? Or should I just hang my head in shame everytime I leave my house?
It's ridiculous that popular culture is making motherhood into something to be embarrassed about. I for one am proud to be a Mom. I love my kids and I believe I am doing my part to contribute to a healthy society for the future by staying at home to raise my children.
I wear Mom jeans. They have a mid-rise that hits just below my belly button. Do you know why? Because they are made to fit my Mom body! And they look WAY better on me then if I were to squeeze into some low cut, tight thigh, juniors jeans!
I have Mom hair too! I wear it in a bob. Not long. Not short. Why is that? Because it is easy to style and doesn't get in my way when I'm busily carrying my young children, cooking for my family, or running errands.
And I drive a small SUV. Maybe it's not a full on Mom-mobile, but guess what? I want a Mini-van! Yep, I'm not ashamed. I want a vehicle that seats my family of 4 and still has room to pop in an extra carseat incase I have another Mommy friend who wants to hitch a ride home from the zoo. A mini-van is clearly the most comfortable option for the busy Mom on the go.
Does all this Mom stuff make me less sexy? Mabye in the eyes of the club-hopping, trend setters in their twenties, but that sure doesn't matter to me. I care if my husband finds me sexy and he does! Does all this Mom stuff make me stand out in public as being the woman who is saddled with 2 kids? Doubtful! I'm quite sure people figure that out by the baby on my back and the toddler holding my hand!
I am a Mom. I am proud. This is an important phase of my life and I am not ashamed to flaunt my Mom-ness!
It's ridiculous that popular culture is making motherhood into something to be embarrassed about. I for one am proud to be a Mom. I love my kids and I believe I am doing my part to contribute to a healthy society for the future by staying at home to raise my children.
I wear Mom jeans. They have a mid-rise that hits just below my belly button. Do you know why? Because they are made to fit my Mom body! And they look WAY better on me then if I were to squeeze into some low cut, tight thigh, juniors jeans!
I have Mom hair too! I wear it in a bob. Not long. Not short. Why is that? Because it is easy to style and doesn't get in my way when I'm busily carrying my young children, cooking for my family, or running errands.
And I drive a small SUV. Maybe it's not a full on Mom-mobile, but guess what? I want a Mini-van! Yep, I'm not ashamed. I want a vehicle that seats my family of 4 and still has room to pop in an extra carseat incase I have another Mommy friend who wants to hitch a ride home from the zoo. A mini-van is clearly the most comfortable option for the busy Mom on the go.
Does all this Mom stuff make me less sexy? Mabye in the eyes of the club-hopping, trend setters in their twenties, but that sure doesn't matter to me. I care if my husband finds me sexy and he does! Does all this Mom stuff make me stand out in public as being the woman who is saddled with 2 kids? Doubtful! I'm quite sure people figure that out by the baby on my back and the toddler holding my hand!
I am a Mom. I am proud. This is an important phase of my life and I am not ashamed to flaunt my Mom-ness!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
One of my very favorite poems...
Dr. Seuss for Nursing Moms
Would you nurse her in the park?
Would you nurse him in the dark?
Would you nurse him with a Boppy?
And when your boobs are feeling floppy?
I would nurse him in the park,
I would nurse her in the dark.
I’d nurse with or without a Boppy.
Floppy boobs will never stop me.
Can you nurse with your seat belt on?
Can you nurse from dusk till dawn?
Though she may pinch me, bite me, pull,
I will nurse her `till she’s full!
Can you nurse and make some soup?
Can you nurse and feed the group?
It makes her healthy strong and smart,
Mommy’s milk is the best start!
Would you nurse him at the game?
Would you nurse her in the rain?
In front of those who dare complain?
I would nurse him at the game.
I would nurse her in the rain.
As for those who protest lactation,
I have the perfect explanation.
Mommy’s milk is tailor made
It’s the perfect food, you need no aid.
Some may scoff and some may wriggle,
Avert their eyes or even giggle.
To those who can be cruel and rude,
Remind them breast’s the perfect food!
I would never scoff or giggle,
Roll my eyes or even wiggle!
I would not be so crass or crude,
I KNOW that this milk’s the perfect food!
We make the amount we need
The perfect temp for every feed.
There’s no compare to milk from breast-
The perfect food, above the rest.
Those sweet nursing smiles are oh so sweet,
Mommy’s milk is such a treat.
Human milk just can’t be beat.
I will nurse, in any case,
On the street or in your face.
I will not let my baby cry,
I’ll meet her needs, I’ll always try.
It’s not about what’s good for you,
It’s best for babies, through and through.
I will nurse her in my home,
I will nurse her when I roam.
Leave me be lads and ma’am.
I will nurse her, Mom I am.
Author unknown
Would you nurse her in the park?
Would you nurse him in the dark?
Would you nurse him with a Boppy?
And when your boobs are feeling floppy?
I would nurse him in the park,
I would nurse her in the dark.
I’d nurse with or without a Boppy.
Floppy boobs will never stop me.
Can you nurse with your seat belt on?
Can you nurse from dusk till dawn?
Though she may pinch me, bite me, pull,
I will nurse her `till she’s full!
Can you nurse and make some soup?
Can you nurse and feed the group?
It makes her healthy strong and smart,
Mommy’s milk is the best start!
Would you nurse him at the game?
Would you nurse her in the rain?
In front of those who dare complain?
I would nurse him at the game.
I would nurse her in the rain.
As for those who protest lactation,
I have the perfect explanation.
Mommy’s milk is tailor made
It’s the perfect food, you need no aid.
Some may scoff and some may wriggle,
Avert their eyes or even giggle.
To those who can be cruel and rude,
Remind them breast’s the perfect food!
I would never scoff or giggle,
Roll my eyes or even wiggle!
I would not be so crass or crude,
I KNOW that this milk’s the perfect food!
We make the amount we need
The perfect temp for every feed.
There’s no compare to milk from breast-
The perfect food, above the rest.
Those sweet nursing smiles are oh so sweet,
Mommy’s milk is such a treat.
Human milk just can’t be beat.
I will nurse, in any case,
On the street or in your face.
I will not let my baby cry,
I’ll meet her needs, I’ll always try.
It’s not about what’s good for you,
It’s best for babies, through and through.
I will nurse her in my home,
I will nurse her when I roam.
Leave me be lads and ma’am.
I will nurse her, Mom I am.
Author unknown
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