Still cannot figure out how it got to be now already. Amelia is 5 months old, ready to move (I swear she's going to crawl this week) and Kieran is 4 going on 14. Hold on this post will be long - just a forewarning.
We've been crazy busy (hence the no bloggity blog from me, sorry I suck) but it's been a good kind of busy. For example, this past weekend, Kieran had a playdate with a friend from his new school and he got to have breakfast with Santa. Oh, yeah, and that trip to the emergency room on Friday night. We really could have done without that.
I'll start with the emergency room. Ken had a trial all week, but was out in time to pick up Kieran (thank goodness because traffic was horrific last week). Friday, right at 5, I get a call from Fitness Fun and Games. Kieran has hit his head and has "a gash" on his forehead. Come and pick him up. Now. You may want to take him to a doctor.
Well, crap. I'm at the office, have to pick up the girl. Not sure if Ken has left court yet I leave him the message I just got and I'm off. As soon as I'm in the car with Amelia, my phone is ringing. It's Ken (whew) he's on his way. He's asking me all kinds of questions I don't know the answer to. "Is it bad? Do we need to go to the doctors?" No idea. We're both a little panicked (though the last time they called he had a goose egg and was fine) and trying to get home to get him ASAP. Ken beats me there by about 10 minutes.
"We're going to the hospital" he said. I guess it's bad. So, I'm at home with Amelia, worried but taking care of the little girl. For once, she goes down early. Crazy early. 7:30 pm and she's out. Now I have nothing to do but worry and wait. And wait.... and wait. I'm getting updates via Facebook (so is my family who calls and texts to be sure everything is OK), four hours later they come home.
Kieran will tell you he got "people glue" which I love. No stitches (though it was a debate). So far the glue has held.
Saturday, after going to bed at midnight, Kieran wakes up at 6:30. Ugh. Ken was already up with Amelia and I wasn't far behind. Ken & Kieran go have breakfast with Santa at Kieran's school. The money goes to the PTO, so worthy cause and all that. Kieran had a great time and loves all the new ornaments for our tree. After that, Ken heads off to work and Kieran is supposed to stay home and rest. He plays Angry Birds. For HOURS. I bribe him into napping at 3 with a promise he can play more angry birds later. Whew.
Sunday Kieran had his first playdate with a kid from his class. This is his "best friend" and when I told him I'd set up the playdate, he warned me (in all seriousness) "OK, but we may get silly." I told him that was just fine. We met at Dunkin Donuts and walked to the Science Center where the kids had a blast. They played for 2 hours and I needed a nap just watching them.
Amelia continues to be cute. Which is good because she continues to wake up in the middle of the night as well. She's extremely talkative, loves music and to move around. She's still not eating food yet (though I got the go-ahead from the doctor for her to try it) we've tried a few times and she's just not loving it. We'll keep at it because I do think that once she starts on solids she'll be a better sleeper. Here's to hoping anyway.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Milking It
We got the word from the doctors that Amelia is OK to sleep as long as she likes. Right now they don't see anything wrong with her (legal disclaimer from the drs - not that there isn't something wrong, but just nothing they can note/find, they've done all they can think to test for and she's negative on all of it) and we no longer have to worry about when she last ate or setting the alarm for the middle of the night.
Of course, the day we get that is the first night she wakes up on her own at the time I would have had to wake her anyway. *sigh*
On the making milk front, I've been doing well (knock wood) and I hope to take her to a full year. Its very different this time and I have found it easier, especially because I know what to expect. I do have a trip in December that will take me away for an entire week - which I'm nervous about - so I hope that I can keep it up through that time and beyond.
Kieran has been very frustrating of late. He's not listening (not entirely out of the ordinary for a kid his age, but damn annoying), interrupts (much better on this front since we added the magnet on it), and generally just doesn't seem to have any concentration power. Last night I completely lost it with him. He put stickers on his wall. The reason this upset me is because for the past few weeks whenever he'd get stickers he'd ask to put them on his wall, on books, etc. and the response I gave him was "no, you can wear them or we can put them in (fill in the blank of more appropriate place here)". When he proudly showed me the stickers, I lost my cool and SHOUTED at him.
He has never seen me so angry. He backed up across the room from me and refused to answer my question of "why did you do this when I've told you not to?". He said "Daddy didn't get mad." Which made me feel crappy, but I stuck to my guns. Sadly, he gave me the same answer I gave my own parents when asked why I had done something I knew I shouldn't have.
"I don't know."
ARRRGH. Mom, I am sorry. Dad, I am sorry. Dar, I am sorry. I know I must have said that a million times myself. In so many ways, Kieran is just like me. Stubborn, opinionated, able to get his way by being sweet (which he takes full advantage of), and a very caring individual. I love him and am frustrated by him all at the same time.
After I calmed down, I talked with him about why I was so angry. I told him he lost his 'show respect' magnet for the day. He understood and didn't seem to be upset. It's getting harder and harder to discipline him appropriately. Ken had a talk with him this morning about being frustrated with him and how he can help us. Hopefully, it will make a difference.
For now, we play the game of "how far can I push my parents". Kieran has been losing toys left and right. At least we're making room for Santa.
Of course, the day we get that is the first night she wakes up on her own at the time I would have had to wake her anyway. *sigh*
On the making milk front, I've been doing well (knock wood) and I hope to take her to a full year. Its very different this time and I have found it easier, especially because I know what to expect. I do have a trip in December that will take me away for an entire week - which I'm nervous about - so I hope that I can keep it up through that time and beyond.
Kieran has been very frustrating of late. He's not listening (not entirely out of the ordinary for a kid his age, but damn annoying), interrupts (much better on this front since we added the magnet on it), and generally just doesn't seem to have any concentration power. Last night I completely lost it with him. He put stickers on his wall. The reason this upset me is because for the past few weeks whenever he'd get stickers he'd ask to put them on his wall, on books, etc. and the response I gave him was "no, you can wear them or we can put them in (fill in the blank of more appropriate place here)". When he proudly showed me the stickers, I lost my cool and SHOUTED at him.
He has never seen me so angry. He backed up across the room from me and refused to answer my question of "why did you do this when I've told you not to?". He said "Daddy didn't get mad." Which made me feel crappy, but I stuck to my guns. Sadly, he gave me the same answer I gave my own parents when asked why I had done something I knew I shouldn't have.
"I don't know."
ARRRGH. Mom, I am sorry. Dad, I am sorry. Dar, I am sorry. I know I must have said that a million times myself. In so many ways, Kieran is just like me. Stubborn, opinionated, able to get his way by being sweet (which he takes full advantage of), and a very caring individual. I love him and am frustrated by him all at the same time.
After I calmed down, I talked with him about why I was so angry. I told him he lost his 'show respect' magnet for the day. He understood and didn't seem to be upset. It's getting harder and harder to discipline him appropriately. Ken had a talk with him this morning about being frustrated with him and how he can help us. Hopefully, it will make a difference.
For now, we play the game of "how far can I push my parents". Kieran has been losing toys left and right. At least we're making room for Santa.
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Some, but not all, of the numbers
Amelia had her four month checkup on Halloween and although shots are scary, she did very well and so far we have no adverse reactions. Developmentally she's on target and actually began to laugh for us on Halloween. It's more of a chuckle than a laugh right now, but it's adorable. I have her percentiles but not the hard numbers so here it goes:
Head circumference - below 5th percentile still (I think 15 inches, but won't swear to it)
Weight - not quite 12 lbs, 10th percentile
Height - 23 inches, I think - 25th percentile
She's gone down in all categories (percentile wise) but she's still growing and may bounce between specific curves for awhile. She began sleeping on her belly a few weeks ago. Actually, nearly a month ago she did it once and cried because she freaked herself out and didn't do it again for another two weeks. She started really rolling over while Ken was in New Mexico. Since she had the turn, we were finally able (last night) to collect a urine sample to (hopefully) finish up on her genetic testing. Should only take a few days to get the final results, but we'll see. This test may end being inconclusive as well and then there's a whole other set they might want us to do. Or they may say "heck with it, she's fine." Maybe that's just my wishful thinking.
Our naming ceremony was beautiful. We chose the Hebrew name "Shiri Ahava" which means lover of song or my song of love. She's named in honor of my grandfather who recently passed away. He loved music, always got this wonderful little smile on his face when listening to classical or opera. He also enjoyed it when I would recognize a piece he'd played for me before. Mia lives up to her new name by being enthralled by music.
We must publicly thank so many people for helping to make the ceremony a success - my dad, Dar, Uncle Gary, Aunt Joni, Wendy, Andy, Bob - you guys did so much work and the food was awesome. Ken's family for driving nearly 9 hours (one way!) to be there. And Kieran, for wishing "Love" for his sister.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Fabulous, Frustrating, Four
Amelia is officially four months old today. Kieran is four years old. In honor of this happenstance, I'm going to list four fun things about each of them.
Amelia
1. She is officially out of my least-favorite stage (Blobby Baby) and smiles a lot. I like this.
2. Loves music. Doesn't matter if you sing off key, she likes it all. Well, maybe not heavy metal....
3. Everyone adores her a daycare. I came in this morning and another parent said "Hi Amelia!" I felt bad, I had no idea who her kid was.
4. Unfortunately, is still waking up twice each night. My mantra is "this too shall pass".
Kieran
1. Has made some friends at his new school, even going so far as to choose a best friend.
2. Still has some issues with listening, but we're working on it.
3. Loves Ben 10, Spiderman, Batman as well as Kai Lan, Blues Clues, and Backyardigans.
4. Adores his sister (thank goodness). He may get frustrated with me or Ken for not paying more attention/time with him, but he doesn't seem to get angry with her.
Mia's 4 month checkup is on Monday, so I'll blog her stats then. Love to all.
Amelia
1. She is officially out of my least-favorite stage (Blobby Baby) and smiles a lot. I like this.
2. Loves music. Doesn't matter if you sing off key, she likes it all. Well, maybe not heavy metal....
3. Everyone adores her a daycare. I came in this morning and another parent said "Hi Amelia!" I felt bad, I had no idea who her kid was.
4. Unfortunately, is still waking up twice each night. My mantra is "this too shall pass".
Kieran
1. Has made some friends at his new school, even going so far as to choose a best friend.
2. Still has some issues with listening, but we're working on it.
3. Loves Ben 10, Spiderman, Batman as well as Kai Lan, Blues Clues, and Backyardigans.
4. Adores his sister (thank goodness). He may get frustrated with me or Ken for not paying more attention/time with him, but he doesn't seem to get angry with her.
Mia's 4 month checkup is on Monday, so I'll blog her stats then. Love to all.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Kieran's Day at the Farm
Kieran's first bus field trip was to a local farm. Ken went as well as chaperone. Both had a great time picking veggies. Before I share the cute photos that Ken sent me throughout the trip, I'll do a brief family update.
Amelia is doing well and all the caregivers just love her at daycare. Really happy with them so far. She does fairly well sleeping at night with 1-2 wake ups (after she goes to sleep around 8 or 9). Kieran continues to be one of the best big brothers in existence. We were walking to the library and he saw a dandelion. He picked it up and wished "for Amelia to grow up happy".
Kieran is having some issues with school. Mostly it's about talking too much (everyone swore to me when he talked late that we'd one day regret working so hard to get him to talk... that day may be here). He did have his worst day ever at his after-care program when he was hitting his friends. He lost a toy, tv rights that night and is not allowed back at Kendo (for a bit).
The photos are (top to bottom) Kieran picking radishes, then cotton. Kieran with his pumpkin and Kieran with Amelia's pumpkin. It was his idea to be sure that Amelia got a pumpkin as well. And we get to keep the veggies that Kieran picked - YUM.
Amelia is doing well and all the caregivers just love her at daycare. Really happy with them so far. She does fairly well sleeping at night with 1-2 wake ups (after she goes to sleep around 8 or 9). Kieran continues to be one of the best big brothers in existence. We were walking to the library and he saw a dandelion. He picked it up and wished "for Amelia to grow up happy".
Kieran is having some issues with school. Mostly it's about talking too much (everyone swore to me when he talked late that we'd one day regret working so hard to get him to talk... that day may be here). He did have his worst day ever at his after-care program when he was hitting his friends. He lost a toy, tv rights that night and is not allowed back at Kendo (for a bit).
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Three Months, Wow
Three months ago today, we officially became parents (according to my brother who says you're not really a parent unless you have more than one kid).
It has been a strange ride so far and I feel as though we're slowly slogging to the surface of what will become our normal life. Kieran is adjusting to school though he hates wearing a uniform. During his second week, he proclaimed "I kept looking for somebody beautiful on the playground, but no one was beautiful. They were all wearing the same thing." He is, however, beginning to make friends and we've gone from him saying "At my old school we (fill in more fun activity here)." to "It's just like my old school." Today they took a field trip to the library and he got to bring his library card and next month he takes his first bus field trip to a farm. I think with that type of activity he'll start to enjoy his new school more and more. The kids in his class and his aftercare program know him well. I've been walking him home only to hear from the other side of the fence "Kieran, Kieran - bye!"
I'm back at work and adjusting to having to take off quite a bit of time (already) with a public school. Amelia still enjoys daycare (as far as I can tell, anyway) and has begun giving us HUGE smiles. She's also liking her dad quite a bit - she coos for him while he sings to her and gives lots of smiles.
She smiles for me (and also at my boobs, prompting quite a bit of laughter from anyone who has witnessed the 'happy boobie look') and coos a lot. Better at riding in the car, though still not her favorite thing. Each night we have a meltdown around bedtime (8 pm for them both - but Mia is the one that melts, not Kieran), but now that we realize it's her natural bedtime, it's easier to anticipate and get prepared to put her to sleep.
OK, just thought I'd do a quick post on her official 3 month birthday. Love to all, blog again... whenever.
It has been a strange ride so far and I feel as though we're slowly slogging to the surface of what will become our normal life. Kieran is adjusting to school though he hates wearing a uniform. During his second week, he proclaimed "I kept looking for somebody beautiful on the playground, but no one was beautiful. They were all wearing the same thing." He is, however, beginning to make friends and we've gone from him saying "At my old school we (fill in more fun activity here)." to "It's just like my old school." Today they took a field trip to the library and he got to bring his library card and next month he takes his first bus field trip to a farm. I think with that type of activity he'll start to enjoy his new school more and more. The kids in his class and his aftercare program know him well. I've been walking him home only to hear from the other side of the fence "Kieran, Kieran - bye!"
I'm back at work and adjusting to having to take off quite a bit of time (already) with a public school. Amelia still enjoys daycare (as far as I can tell, anyway) and has begun giving us HUGE smiles. She's also liking her dad quite a bit - she coos for him while he sings to her and gives lots of smiles.
She smiles for me (and also at my boobs, prompting quite a bit of laughter from anyone who has witnessed the 'happy boobie look') and coos a lot. Better at riding in the car, though still not her favorite thing. Each night we have a meltdown around bedtime (8 pm for them both - but Mia is the one that melts, not Kieran), but now that we realize it's her natural bedtime, it's easier to anticipate and get prepared to put her to sleep.
OK, just thought I'd do a quick post on her official 3 month birthday. Love to all, blog again... whenever.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
A Few Words About Kids
Kids are awesome, entertaining and completely exhausting. Having two is an experience and a juggling act that I would not trade for the world.
Amelia is finally sleeping soundly in her crib every night. A huge blessing. She does not cry when I drop her off at daycare, but loves to just look around at the world. This makes it MUCH easier for me to leave and get to work. Unfortunately, she's not being kind to Ken. Right now she cries quite a bit when he holds her at night, but I think it's just the equation of boobies = person who can feed me. Even though he's given her a few bottles, she's not sold. We'll keep working on that.
Kieran is starting to enjoy school and has begun making a few friends in the neighborhood. I've gotten better about trying to put playdates in place for him on days when he'd otherwise be idle (school is closed, weekend, etc). This week schools were closed on Tuesday for the primary election, so I put together a long-awaited playdate between Kieran and my cousin's son Eli. Eli's a year younger than Kieran, but they play fairly well together. Eli has a little sister, Sunny, who is about 6 months older than Amelia. Ken had taken Amelia to daycare so I could spend the day just with Kieran.
We all headed to the Science Center where the boys had a blast and Sunny enjoyed looking around. After a quick lunch, we started home and it was naptime for Eli and Sunny. Kieran was upset that the playdate didn't last longer. Katie (Eli's mom) told Kieran that maybe after a nap they would be able to play again (she meant another day, but both Kieran and Eli took it to mean THAT day). They both were a bit upset when they realized they wouldn't have the whole day together. We'll definitely get them together again soon.
After some downtime at home, Kieran and I walked to the library. Along the way, we ran into some neighbors that Kieran's played with before, Conner and Dylan (and their mom, Michelle). Kieran got very excited as he played and whispered to me "They live here!". I was confused, since he's been to their house once before, but smiled and said that yes, they did. Michelle and I talked while the boys played. After awhile Kieran asked Michelle if Eli was done napping. I then realized that Michelle and Katie look a little bit alike. Same color hair and close to the same haircut and their clothes that day were similar.
I explained that this wasn't Katie, but Michelle - Conner and Dylan's mom. Michelle suggested we set up a playdate for the boys at some point in the future (we'll be sure to see them this weekend at the Streat Beet festival's moon bounce) and I agreed. Kieran looked a bit embarrassed and whispered in my ear "I thought she had just changed her shirt."
At least he's making friends, even if he can't keep their moms straight.
Amelia is finally sleeping soundly in her crib every night. A huge blessing. She does not cry when I drop her off at daycare, but loves to just look around at the world. This makes it MUCH easier for me to leave and get to work. Unfortunately, she's not being kind to Ken. Right now she cries quite a bit when he holds her at night, but I think it's just the equation of boobies = person who can feed me. Even though he's given her a few bottles, she's not sold. We'll keep working on that.
Kieran is starting to enjoy school and has begun making a few friends in the neighborhood. I've gotten better about trying to put playdates in place for him on days when he'd otherwise be idle (school is closed, weekend, etc). This week schools were closed on Tuesday for the primary election, so I put together a long-awaited playdate between Kieran and my cousin's son Eli. Eli's a year younger than Kieran, but they play fairly well together. Eli has a little sister, Sunny, who is about 6 months older than Amelia. Ken had taken Amelia to daycare so I could spend the day just with Kieran.
We all headed to the Science Center where the boys had a blast and Sunny enjoyed looking around. After a quick lunch, we started home and it was naptime for Eli and Sunny. Kieran was upset that the playdate didn't last longer. Katie (Eli's mom) told Kieran that maybe after a nap they would be able to play again (she meant another day, but both Kieran and Eli took it to mean THAT day). They both were a bit upset when they realized they wouldn't have the whole day together. We'll definitely get them together again soon.
After some downtime at home, Kieran and I walked to the library. Along the way, we ran into some neighbors that Kieran's played with before, Conner and Dylan (and their mom, Michelle). Kieran got very excited as he played and whispered to me "They live here!". I was confused, since he's been to their house once before, but smiled and said that yes, they did. Michelle and I talked while the boys played. After awhile Kieran asked Michelle if Eli was done napping. I then realized that Michelle and Katie look a little bit alike. Same color hair and close to the same haircut and their clothes that day were similar.
I explained that this wasn't Katie, but Michelle - Conner and Dylan's mom. Michelle suggested we set up a playdate for the boys at some point in the future (we'll be sure to see them this weekend at the Streat Beet festival's moon bounce) and I agreed. Kieran looked a bit embarrassed and whispered in my ear "I thought she had just changed her shirt."
At least he's making friends, even if he can't keep their moms straight.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
School Daze
So, back at work for one full day and then today... disaster. Everything was going fine until I get an email saying the power is out and there will not be an afterschool program. Kieran's school lets out at 2:20, the email came in at 1:45. I could not get a hold of Ken, so no idea if he could pick up Amelia or Kieran.
Frantically, I race out of the office, pick up Mia in record time and race towards home. Thankfully, Ken was already home and was able to get Kieran right on time (I would have been about 10 mins late). But it highlights something we have to deal with - the fact that we have no backup plan for his afterschool program. Am now working on this.
On a separate note, Mia seems to be doing fairly well at daycare. Granted, she's only been there a day and a half, but she seems to like her caregivers and they sent me a photo today (posted it on FB) just because they wanted me to see she was doing well. She does a lot of sleeping on the boppy pillow and doesn't seem to sleep for long periods of time there (yet), but she didn't cry when I brought her in today.
Mostly we're all adjusting this week to me being back at work. The funniest thing happening right now is that while Amelia is not farting as much as she used to, Kieran is blaming his farts on her. I can't help it... that's just funny.
Frantically, I race out of the office, pick up Mia in record time and race towards home. Thankfully, Ken was already home and was able to get Kieran right on time (I would have been about 10 mins late). But it highlights something we have to deal with - the fact that we have no backup plan for his afterschool program. Am now working on this.
On a separate note, Mia seems to be doing fairly well at daycare. Granted, she's only been there a day and a half, but she seems to like her caregivers and they sent me a photo today (posted it on FB) just because they wanted me to see she was doing well. She does a lot of sleeping on the boppy pillow and doesn't seem to sleep for long periods of time there (yet), but she didn't cry when I brought her in today.
Mostly we're all adjusting this week to me being back at work. The funniest thing happening right now is that while Amelia is not farting as much as she used to, Kieran is blaming his farts on her. I can't help it... that's just funny.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Oh, the Doctor's She'll See
Had our 2 month checkup today. Amelia has gained weight nicely, and has grown. Still has a tiny head, but her development is on track. Results are finally in on the MCADD - nope. But, they still don't want us to let her go more than 6 hrs without eating. The geneticists think that perhaps Mia may not be able to process proteins for energy. More tests happening tomorrow, but those results should only take 10 days. We'll see.
OK, here's Mia, by the numbers at 2 months:
Height: 22 1/4 inches (50th percentile)
Weight: 9 lbs, 15 oz (25th percentile)
Head Circumference: 14 inches (less than 5th percentile)
The GP said (again) that they need to keep an eye on her small head. So long as she's hitting her developmental milestones they won't worry. Small heads can mean developmental issues, but it may just be that she has a small head. I'm starting to dislike doctors in general.
OK, here's Mia, by the numbers at 2 months:
Height: 22 1/4 inches (50th percentile)
Weight: 9 lbs, 15 oz (25th percentile)
Head Circumference: 14 inches (less than 5th percentile)
The GP said (again) that they need to keep an eye on her small head. So long as she's hitting her developmental milestones they won't worry. Small heads can mean developmental issues, but it may just be that she has a small head. I'm starting to dislike doctors in general.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Natural Disasters
It's been a very strange week. Tuesday we had the earthquake (and if I hadn't grabbed her out of the pack n' play, Mia probably would have slept through it), yesterday we had a hurricane. All through the week we've been working on sleeping in the crib and dealing with flight issues. First Grandma's, then Ken's.
The earthquake was strange. I was on the phone with Ken when it happened. Felt like the house did a shimmy, twice. Lasted less than 30 seconds overall, but it was frightening. Ken's first thought when I tried to explain was that perhaps our neighbors had done something to the foundation. My first thought was earthquake and then I went outside to see if it was our neighbors only to see everyone who was home out of doors asking "are you OK?" and "did you feel that?".
Debbie was supposed to be landing just as the earthquake struck but her original flight had engine trouble and she was put on a later flight. She made it here on Tuesday, just much later in the day. Mostly we've hung out, done way too much shopping and generally just had some Grandma/Amelia time. Right now they're napping together. So cute.
Ken and Kieran were supposed to be home yesterday. Friday night their Saturday flight was cancelled and they were put on a flight coming in at 9 am today. Then that flight was cancelled as well. Now they'll be home (hopeully) around 9 tonight. Grandma will definitely miss time with Kieran as he starts school tomorrow.
Met Kieran's teacher, Ms. Tiernan. She's got 5 years experience teaching Kindergarten and seemed to have a good handle on everything. Kieran will be in a class of 22 kids total. I forewarned Ms. Tiernan that Kieran can be something of a teacher's pet - but I think he'll love his new school. Especially once he's able to do some playdates with his new classmates.
Amelia's sleep training has been going well. Still having some issues getting her down to begin with but once she is asleep she sleeps well - until I have to wake her 6 hrs later for a feeding (still no results on her tests), then she usually sleeps for another 2-3 hrs. Right now it seems like her bedtime is 10 pm (ish) which may be good because Kieran will already be in bed asleep so if she needs a few more "put downs" he'll (hopefully) sleep through her cries. I'm very excited to have Ken back and now we can even sleep in the same bed... amazing.
Today we'll be putzing around the house, taking some walks to see the damage around the neighborhood and just generally taking it easy until we pick them up. Next week is my last week at home... we start daycare and back to work the day after Labor Day. I'm starting to freak out about leaving Amelia with what will be strangers to her on Tuesday, but what choice do I have? I know once she gets fed by them she'll calm down... and that if they need me I'm only 5 minutes away.
In other news, my mom got her surgery date - Sept 19th. I'll take the day off and hang at the hospital and I know we'll work out some after-surgery schedule as well. OK, that's about all the news I've got. Love to all blog again soon.
The earthquake was strange. I was on the phone with Ken when it happened. Felt like the house did a shimmy, twice. Lasted less than 30 seconds overall, but it was frightening. Ken's first thought when I tried to explain was that perhaps our neighbors had done something to the foundation. My first thought was earthquake and then I went outside to see if it was our neighbors only to see everyone who was home out of doors asking "are you OK?" and "did you feel that?".
Debbie was supposed to be landing just as the earthquake struck but her original flight had engine trouble and she was put on a later flight. She made it here on Tuesday, just much later in the day. Mostly we've hung out, done way too much shopping and generally just had some Grandma/Amelia time. Right now they're napping together. So cute.
Ken and Kieran were supposed to be home yesterday. Friday night their Saturday flight was cancelled and they were put on a flight coming in at 9 am today. Then that flight was cancelled as well. Now they'll be home (hopeully) around 9 tonight. Grandma will definitely miss time with Kieran as he starts school tomorrow.
Met Kieran's teacher, Ms. Tiernan. She's got 5 years experience teaching Kindergarten and seemed to have a good handle on everything. Kieran will be in a class of 22 kids total. I forewarned Ms. Tiernan that Kieran can be something of a teacher's pet - but I think he'll love his new school. Especially once he's able to do some playdates with his new classmates.
Amelia's sleep training has been going well. Still having some issues getting her down to begin with but once she is asleep she sleeps well - until I have to wake her 6 hrs later for a feeding (still no results on her tests), then she usually sleeps for another 2-3 hrs. Right now it seems like her bedtime is 10 pm (ish) which may be good because Kieran will already be in bed asleep so if she needs a few more "put downs" he'll (hopefully) sleep through her cries. I'm very excited to have Ken back and now we can even sleep in the same bed... amazing.
Today we'll be putzing around the house, taking some walks to see the damage around the neighborhood and just generally taking it easy until we pick them up. Next week is my last week at home... we start daycare and back to work the day after Labor Day. I'm starting to freak out about leaving Amelia with what will be strangers to her on Tuesday, but what choice do I have? I know once she gets fed by them she'll calm down... and that if they need me I'm only 5 minutes away.
In other news, my mom got her surgery date - Sept 19th. I'll take the day off and hang at the hospital and I know we'll work out some after-surgery schedule as well. OK, that's about all the news I've got. Love to all blog again soon.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Ah, Sleep
Mia's been sleeping with someone holding her on the sofa, pretty much since she's been born. She has hated to be set down, pretty much screaming bloody murder if you tried. Since we haven't been ready to try sleep training, we just split the night sleeping in bed (Ken would lay down with her from 10 until 2 when she fed and then it was my turn. I've missed laying in bed with my husband.
So, while Ken & Kieran enjoy the charms of Orlando and there is no one besides our neighbors (who, let's face it, deserve some tit-for-tat in the noise department) to wake up, I thought I'd begin sleep training.
My first night I didn't bother with the 10 pm slee because I was too tired. At her 1:30 wakeup, however, I took her upstairs, fed her and laid her down (around 2:45). She lasted one hour. Fed her again and she slept from 4 until 7. Hope to start in her bedroom tonight and will try to get the big sleep in her crib. We'll see. I don't know if I'll be able to get her to repeat the process. Fingers crossed everyone.
So, while Ken & Kieran enjoy the charms of Orlando and there is no one besides our neighbors (who, let's face it, deserve some tit-for-tat in the noise department) to wake up, I thought I'd begin sleep training.
My first night I didn't bother with the 10 pm slee because I was too tired. At her 1:30 wakeup, however, I took her upstairs, fed her and laid her down (around 2:45). She lasted one hour. Fed her again and she slept from 4 until 7. Hope to start in her bedroom tonight and will try to get the big sleep in her crib. We'll see. I don't know if I'll be able to get her to repeat the process. Fingers crossed everyone.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Things He Probably Won't Remeber Saying
Kieran's been mostly good Even being as cooped up as we've been. Tuesday we went to visit with his cousins (even though he'll spend all next week with them). He had a great time, but as we were getting ready to go, Aunt Wendy was holding Amelia and asking Kieran about her.
Wendy: Do you like your sister?
Kieran: We love her. We're going to keep her forever.
Wendy: Can I borrow her?
Kieran: No, we're keeping her forever, I love her, whatever she wants to do, I do.
Wendy (to me): You should get that on tape.
Yesterday was an adventure (not in a great way). I had this plan to go visit Kilby Cream, a dairy farm about an hour north of here. Right as we were trying to get onto I-95, the exit was blocked. Turning around, I clipped a curb and blew a tire. A new tire. The tire we JUST BOUGHT last week. Two big "thank goodness" happened. First, I was only 2 blocks from a location where we could get it fixed. Second was that we had bought the hazard insurance on the tires so we only paid for the hazard on the new tire ($15) instead of a whole new tire ($150).
This, however, meant that we were home-bound because we had no car while we waited. To get out after awhile, we walked down to Screwballs in Locust Point where they make snowballs and have ice cream. Kieran had never had a snowball before and had been seeing commercials for a slushee maker on TV. Thought he'd enjoy the treat. We got there and, after choosing "The Dora" kid's cup snowball, Kieran sat down and said several times "This is the best day ever." I promised him that we'd go again on Friday with Ken. He also told me while we were walking that whatever I say is correct and he'll do what I tell him. I said I wanted to record that, we'll see if he sticks to that.
Wendy: Do you like your sister?
Kieran: We love her. We're going to keep her forever.
Wendy: Can I borrow her?
Kieran: No, we're keeping her forever, I love her, whatever she wants to do, I do.
Wendy (to me): You should get that on tape.
Yesterday was an adventure (not in a great way). I had this plan to go visit Kilby Cream, a dairy farm about an hour north of here. Right as we were trying to get onto I-95, the exit was blocked. Turning around, I clipped a curb and blew a tire. A new tire. The tire we JUST BOUGHT last week. Two big "thank goodness" happened. First, I was only 2 blocks from a location where we could get it fixed. Second was that we had bought the hazard insurance on the tires so we only paid for the hazard on the new tire ($15) instead of a whole new tire ($150).
This, however, meant that we were home-bound because we had no car while we waited. To get out after awhile, we walked down to Screwballs in Locust Point where they make snowballs and have ice cream. Kieran had never had a snowball before and had been seeing commercials for a slushee maker on TV. Thought he'd enjoy the treat. We got there and, after choosing "The Dora" kid's cup snowball, Kieran sat down and said several times "This is the best day ever." I promised him that we'd go again on Friday with Ken. He also told me while we were walking that whatever I say is correct and he'll do what I tell him. I said I wanted to record that, we'll see if he sticks to that.
Monday, August 08, 2011
Still Waiting
So initial results are in and we don't know anything yet. Basically the first test came back negative but that just means that the drs have to run secondary tests, not that she does not have MCADD.
Back to waiting for 2-3 weeks. UGH.
I have survived the first week at home with both kids. It's definitely challenging and Kieran has been acting up more than usual. He's upset about not being the spotlight person all the time, though he still dotes on Amelia (hugs and kisses her every day, makes artwork for her, etc). I don't believe he truly understands why he is so frustrated or angry, but whatever the reason we're teaching him the behavior is not acceptable. He's getting it - slowly but surely.
Mia has gained weight nicely, I'm certain she's over 8 lbs now. Still mostly breastfeeding which is different than it was with Kieran, but we did more to establish my milk supply this time. I must say it is nice not to have to drop $100 per month on formula. At least so far. I'm hoping that I can keep pumping enough for her (or at least more than half of what she needs) until she no longer needs formula when she's a year old. We'll see. I only made it to 6 months with Kieran and once I go back to work it will definitely become a challenge to keep up with pumping.
Speaking of work, my plan is to head back right after labor day. Initially I was going to go back the week after that, but Kieran actually starts his new school the week before. Mostly I just wanted to be home the week that he starts at his new school, to help with the transition. This week we're going to be meeting up with some of the kids who will be in his class at the new school. We plan to meet up a few times before school starts so the kids know each other before the first day. I'm excited because we haven't done enough to help Kieran make friends around here and I'm looking forward to not being his sole means of entertainment on the weekends. If he's got friends around, we can work on playdates, etc.
And, in other family news...
My mom and grandmother are doing OK after my grandfather's passing. I miss him a lot, he was an amazing person. However, given his state of being it feels nearly peaceful, his passing. We plan on choosing a hebrew name for Mia that will honor his memory. Kieran does not quite understand death yet (and it makes me crazy all his "I'm gonna make you dead/I'm gonna kill you" superhero talk). We had this exchange last week walking to the science center:
Me: I need to call Oma, we'll probably visit her this weekend.
Kieran: And Opa?
Me: No, sweetie, Opa is dead. We won't see him again.
Kieran: Why?
Me: Because he's dead. Do you remember when we put dirt on the box in the ground? That was Opa's body, it was a way to say goodbye.
Kieran takes a minute or two to think this over. Kieran: I miss Opa.
Me: Me too.
Mom is doing well after her last bit of chemo. Right now she's been consulting with doctors about her next steps. Surgery will likely be later this month and then recovery will be another month or so after that. Soon as I know more, I'll let everyone know.
Back to waiting for 2-3 weeks. UGH.
I have survived the first week at home with both kids. It's definitely challenging and Kieran has been acting up more than usual. He's upset about not being the spotlight person all the time, though he still dotes on Amelia (hugs and kisses her every day, makes artwork for her, etc). I don't believe he truly understands why he is so frustrated or angry, but whatever the reason we're teaching him the behavior is not acceptable. He's getting it - slowly but surely.
Mia has gained weight nicely, I'm certain she's over 8 lbs now. Still mostly breastfeeding which is different than it was with Kieran, but we did more to establish my milk supply this time. I must say it is nice not to have to drop $100 per month on formula. At least so far. I'm hoping that I can keep pumping enough for her (or at least more than half of what she needs) until she no longer needs formula when she's a year old. We'll see. I only made it to 6 months with Kieran and once I go back to work it will definitely become a challenge to keep up with pumping.
Speaking of work, my plan is to head back right after labor day. Initially I was going to go back the week after that, but Kieran actually starts his new school the week before. Mostly I just wanted to be home the week that he starts at his new school, to help with the transition. This week we're going to be meeting up with some of the kids who will be in his class at the new school. We plan to meet up a few times before school starts so the kids know each other before the first day. I'm excited because we haven't done enough to help Kieran make friends around here and I'm looking forward to not being his sole means of entertainment on the weekends. If he's got friends around, we can work on playdates, etc.
And, in other family news...
My mom and grandmother are doing OK after my grandfather's passing. I miss him a lot, he was an amazing person. However, given his state of being it feels nearly peaceful, his passing. We plan on choosing a hebrew name for Mia that will honor his memory. Kieran does not quite understand death yet (and it makes me crazy all his "I'm gonna make you dead/I'm gonna kill you" superhero talk). We had this exchange last week walking to the science center:
Me: I need to call Oma, we'll probably visit her this weekend.
Kieran: And Opa?
Me: No, sweetie, Opa is dead. We won't see him again.
Kieran: Why?
Me: Because he's dead. Do you remember when we put dirt on the box in the ground? That was Opa's body, it was a way to say goodbye.
Kieran takes a minute or two to think this over. Kieran: I miss Opa.
Me: Me too.
Mom is doing well after her last bit of chemo. Right now she's been consulting with doctors about her next steps. Surgery will likely be later this month and then recovery will be another month or so after that. Soon as I know more, I'll let everyone know.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Serious Stink
Amelia has serious farts. They are frequent and they stink. (BTW, my mom swears this is a Lipshultz trait) To see if I can help, I am giving up dairy for a week. If she stops farting so much then we'll know that's the culprit. I LOVE my dairy products (I could live on cereal) so this is a big deal for me, but I love the little stinker so, I'll do what needs done.
Still no news on tests, I promise to post as soon as we know. Also, for anyone who wants to see her, we're getting up on Skype so ping us there. Love to all, blog again soon.
Still no news on tests, I promise to post as soon as we know. Also, for anyone who wants to see her, we're getting up on Skype so ping us there. Love to all, blog again soon.
Monday, July 25, 2011
All the News
First a kidling udpate...
Amelia had a great drs appt today. She weighed in at 7 lbs 5.6 oz, meaning she gained 9 oz in 6 days, more than the ounce per day they were looking for. She's now on track and we won't have to worry about another drs appt until her 2 month checkup.
Still no news on her testing for MCADD, so we continue to feed her every 2-3 hrs, even if we must wake her. Ken and I have begun splitting the nights as she (like her brother before her) will not sleep unless she's held. We're hopeful that as she's older (in a few weeks) we'll be able to move her into her crib and Ken & I could sleep in the same bed at the same time... well, we can dream.
Other news...
My grandfather passed away on Sunday morning. He was 97 and an amazing man. This is my maternal grandfather and we've told Kieran though I'm not sure he really grasps the concept of death. The funeral is on Wednesday, Mom asked if I wanted to say anything and while I have lots of great memories of my grandfather, I don't think I could put into words how much respect and love I had for the man. He was not a lovey-dovey man, not someone who showed affection readily (or at all, really), but I knew he loved me. And I guess that's all that matters.
Amelia had a great drs appt today. She weighed in at 7 lbs 5.6 oz, meaning she gained 9 oz in 6 days, more than the ounce per day they were looking for. She's now on track and we won't have to worry about another drs appt until her 2 month checkup.
Still no news on her testing for MCADD, so we continue to feed her every 2-3 hrs, even if we must wake her. Ken and I have begun splitting the nights as she (like her brother before her) will not sleep unless she's held. We're hopeful that as she's older (in a few weeks) we'll be able to move her into her crib and Ken & I could sleep in the same bed at the same time... well, we can dream.
Other news...
My grandfather passed away on Sunday morning. He was 97 and an amazing man. This is my maternal grandfather and we've told Kieran though I'm not sure he really grasps the concept of death. The funeral is on Wednesday, Mom asked if I wanted to say anything and while I have lots of great memories of my grandfather, I don't think I could put into words how much respect and love I had for the man. He was not a lovey-dovey man, not someone who showed affection readily (or at all, really), but I knew he loved me. And I guess that's all that matters.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Was This Pun Intended?
Kieran (leaving the dinner table): Bye, I'm off to college.
Ken: Where are you going?
Kieran: To college. Like in Toy Story.
Ken: Oh, OK. Have fun.
Kieran comes back. (He was in the bathroom)
Kieran: I'm back. I was pottying in college.
Ken: Yes, I expect you will.
Ken: Where are you going?
Kieran: To college. Like in Toy Story.
Ken: Oh, OK. Have fun.
Kieran comes back. (He was in the bathroom)
Kieran: I'm back. I was pottying in college.
Ken: Yes, I expect you will.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Two Week Checkup
She's gaining weight but not as much as the doctor would like, so I've got to go back on Tuesday. Here's the stats:
Height - 20 inches (I think she wasn't really at the top, so I'd say probably a little shorter than this)
Weight - 6 lbs, 9.4 oz.
Head Circumference: 12.75 inches
She's got a tiny head and they also want to keep an eye on that. She's in the low percentiles, like Kieran was. Still eating tons and still have to be sure she wakes up every 2-3 hrs to eat. That's it, love to all, blog again soon.
Height - 20 inches (I think she wasn't really at the top, so I'd say probably a little shorter than this)
Weight - 6 lbs, 9.4 oz.
Head Circumference: 12.75 inches
She's got a tiny head and they also want to keep an eye on that. She's in the low percentiles, like Kieran was. Still eating tons and still have to be sure she wakes up every 2-3 hrs to eat. That's it, love to all, blog again soon.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Two Week Mark
So, she's two weeks old as of Monday. That was Amelia's original due date, which is somewhat strange. We've got a drs appt on Friday for her 2 week checkup, I'll post more after that.
Still waiting on test results - first set not due until late next week (waiting sucks, just have to say it again) so nighttime is pretty rough. For some reason she's decided to feast between 9-midnight or 10- 1 am every night. I'm talking non-stop eating. She'll feed for about 15-20 mins, seem to be done then start to root when I put her upright to burp. So, we'll switch sides and start all over again. For the ENTIRE time. Can you say 'exhausting'?
Still mostly asleep during the day - working on that but it is hard when I'm so beat. I get no more than 2.5 hrs of sleep at a clip - usually just 1 or 2 b/c I have to keep waking her to feed every 3 hrs. So she'll eat at say 1 am, then I have to wake up a bit before 4 to get her back up to eat again, even if she'd rather sleep.
On the plus side, she's feeding solely on breastmilk, so I'm happy about that. And she seems to be gaining weight. When we brought her in for her last checkup she was nearly back at birthweight, can't wait to see how chubb she's getting on Friday. A little worried about the "short frenulum" which was noted last week, Kieran had tongue tie when he was born, and I asked repeatedly for them to check Mia for this, in the hospital they said she was fine, but the lactation consultant we saw last week said her frenulum was short, but if she's eating OK we shouldn't worry about it though we'll have to keep an eye on it in case it messes with her speech. Something else to have the dr check out on Friday.
That's all for now. Love to all, blog again... sometime...
Still waiting on test results - first set not due until late next week (waiting sucks, just have to say it again) so nighttime is pretty rough. For some reason she's decided to feast between 9-midnight or 10- 1 am every night. I'm talking non-stop eating. She'll feed for about 15-20 mins, seem to be done then start to root when I put her upright to burp. So, we'll switch sides and start all over again. For the ENTIRE time. Can you say 'exhausting'?
Still mostly asleep during the day - working on that but it is hard when I'm so beat. I get no more than 2.5 hrs of sleep at a clip - usually just 1 or 2 b/c I have to keep waking her to feed every 3 hrs. So she'll eat at say 1 am, then I have to wake up a bit before 4 to get her back up to eat again, even if she'd rather sleep.
On the plus side, she's feeding solely on breastmilk, so I'm happy about that. And she seems to be gaining weight. When we brought her in for her last checkup she was nearly back at birthweight, can't wait to see how chubb she's getting on Friday. A little worried about the "short frenulum" which was noted last week, Kieran had tongue tie when he was born, and I asked repeatedly for them to check Mia for this, in the hospital they said she was fine, but the lactation consultant we saw last week said her frenulum was short, but if she's eating OK we shouldn't worry about it though we'll have to keep an eye on it in case it messes with her speech. Something else to have the dr check out on Friday.
That's all for now. Love to all, blog again... sometime...
Friday, July 08, 2011
I Hate Waiting
Yesterday was rough. Ken called our dr and we got a follow-up appointment for Mia at 5PM (weigh in to ensure she was still gaining). I am still not allowed to drive so Ken was going to get Kieran at 3 and head home so we could all go.
Right after we got off the phone, I got a call from the MD govt about the newborn screening that's routinely done at the hospital. The woman I spoke with prefaced what she said to me by saying the lab got all new equipment last week so the results are not definitive, but that Mia had some indicators that she could have MCADD. This is a deficiency in the way her body breaks down stores of fat.
So, instead of seeing one doctor yesterday, we saw two. Ken got us an appointment with a genetic specialist at University of Maryland Medical Center who went over what our next steps are. They took some blood and will do two tests - one will be an initial test, probably will not tell us much more than the first one and the second is a DNA test which will be definitive as to whether or not Amelia has MCADD. In the meantime, we simply treat her as if she has the disorder. We won't know anything for certain until August as the DNA test takes about 4 weeks. Have I mentioned that I hate waiting?
So, what does this mean and what the heck is MCADD? It means that, should she have this, she will need to eat every 2-3 hours and cannot go beyond that. Period. As she gets older the timeframe she can go without food will increase. It is not life-threatening if you know you have it. There is no cure, but there are treatments to help and mostly it is simply a matter of ensuring that Mia eats regularly.
So, the other drs appointment went well and Mia is nearly at her birth weight already (they hope to see her gain back to birth weight by 2 weeks, she's more than on her way). At University of MD they weighed her at 6 lbs 2.5 oz and at our drs office they weighed her at 6 lbs 3.6 oz, apparently scales can be sensitive by a few ounces, but either way she's definitely eating well and gaining weight. Her 2 week checkup is next Friday (when I'm able to drive again).
That's it, for now. Please don't freak out all you family out there. Mia is fine, eating well, I still have to wake her up to eat if she doesn't wake on her own every 2-3 hours, but once I do she eats well. I'm happy to say we're 100% on breastmilk so far and I really hope to keep it that way, at least until she's 6 months old. Will keep everyone informed but we probably won't know anything of note until early August.
Right after we got off the phone, I got a call from the MD govt about the newborn screening that's routinely done at the hospital. The woman I spoke with prefaced what she said to me by saying the lab got all new equipment last week so the results are not definitive, but that Mia had some indicators that she could have MCADD. This is a deficiency in the way her body breaks down stores of fat.
So, instead of seeing one doctor yesterday, we saw two. Ken got us an appointment with a genetic specialist at University of Maryland Medical Center who went over what our next steps are. They took some blood and will do two tests - one will be an initial test, probably will not tell us much more than the first one and the second is a DNA test which will be definitive as to whether or not Amelia has MCADD. In the meantime, we simply treat her as if she has the disorder. We won't know anything for certain until August as the DNA test takes about 4 weeks. Have I mentioned that I hate waiting?
So, what does this mean and what the heck is MCADD? It means that, should she have this, she will need to eat every 2-3 hours and cannot go beyond that. Period. As she gets older the timeframe she can go without food will increase. It is not life-threatening if you know you have it. There is no cure, but there are treatments to help and mostly it is simply a matter of ensuring that Mia eats regularly.
So, the other drs appointment went well and Mia is nearly at her birth weight already (they hope to see her gain back to birth weight by 2 weeks, she's more than on her way). At University of MD they weighed her at 6 lbs 2.5 oz and at our drs office they weighed her at 6 lbs 3.6 oz, apparently scales can be sensitive by a few ounces, but either way she's definitely eating well and gaining weight. Her 2 week checkup is next Friday (when I'm able to drive again).
That's it, for now. Please don't freak out all you family out there. Mia is fine, eating well, I still have to wake her up to eat if she doesn't wake on her own every 2-3 hours, but once I do she eats well. I'm happy to say we're 100% on breastmilk so far and I really hope to keep it that way, at least until she's 6 months old. Will keep everyone informed but we probably won't know anything of note until early August.
Monday, July 04, 2011
Happy Fourth (and one week birthday)!
So, here we are. Our new family of four. Kieran continues to amaze me. Even though I know his sleep is disrupted he's still very doting on Amelia. When she's awake, he makes sure she knows he's there and that he loves her. He's been active (mostly) by playing in his room because I'm still working on the feeding thing. Hope to get that a bit more squared away this week as we have some serious mom/Mia bonding time when Kieran goes back to school and Ken goes to work.
Still weird, but we're adjusting. She wouldn't sleep in her bassinet last night but she did sleep on me and we both slept for about 3 hrs. It was great, though I don't like doing that.
OK, off to the real world. Love to all will try to keep blogging more since I'll be home and all.
Still weird, but we're adjusting. She wouldn't sleep in her bassinet last night but she did sleep on me and we both slept for about 3 hrs. It was great, though I don't like doing that.
OK, off to the real world. Love to all will try to keep blogging more since I'll be home and all.
Saturday, July 02, 2011
The New Normal
It's been an exciting few days. Came home from the hospital on Thursday, had a relatively sleepless night feeding kiddo. Because her weight was very close to the 10% of birth weight, we had to go in for a pediatrician appt yesterday. She went from weighing 5 lbs 9.8 oz on Thurs to 5 lbs 13 oz on Friday. They want to see us again next week just to ensure that Mia's weight is trending in the right direction.
So, Thursday night Amelia had "cluster feedings" nearly every hour so I got near to zero sleep. Ken figured out that when she got way too fussy we could "prime the pump" by giving her a little formula or pumped milk via syringe to calm her down enough to eat. We were so proud on Friday when they told us how much she had gained. I was doing everything right, very little to no formula, mostly breastmilk and mostly from me. We even had to feed her at the drs office (which took an hour). We got her home, however, and things went downhill.
Right around dinnertime was her feeding time, she got so angry and screaming that Kieran went upstairs to his room without finishing his dinner because he couldn't take the noise. It took nearly 1 1/2 hours to get her to eat calmly (formula from a bottle) and I was in tears by the end. We had another episode like that last night (though I only let her get really cranked for about 15 mins because I didn't want to wake Kieran - I'm still hanging out on the first floor because of the c-sec). But this morning it's so far so good. Mostly we have to get in front of her feeding cues and to get her woken up enough to eat before she gets too hungry. She is also semi-lazy and doesn't like to work so hard to get the milk so I definitely don't want her getting used to the bottle - though we specifically have a system that still makes her work for her food.
Anyway, last night went (mostly) better and I got Ken to come down and help me twice, she's fed once this morning. We'll see how the rest of it goes. I'm operating well on little sleep. Thank goodness Ken insists that I get some shut eye or I'd probably "soldier through" and then regret it later.
For my own healing, that seems to be going well. I am being very good about using the stairs sparingly though I would dearly love to sleep in my own bed, probably won't be doing that for a few weeks. I still hurt and have ridiculous elephantine feet, but this too should pass. I am not allowed to drive for another 2 weeks (frustrating but does make me glad we live in the city), stairs are roughly the same - only once up and once down for about a week and then I can start increasing my usage. I've already broken that rule but I still take it slowly and am ensuring that I also get healing as Ken reminds me that I need to be well in order to take care of our little bundles of joy.
Kieran has been (mostly) amazing. I feel bad because we are cooped up at home - with Mia feeding every 2 hours she eats for about 15-30 mins of that which means going anywhere for a bit may be difficult until we've got this whole thing down. Way too much TV and video time are going on, I am ashamed to admit, but I am hopeful that once things get back to normal (next week after the holiday Kieran goes back to school, I'll get a better handle on getting out with an infant who needs to feed) we'll be able to do more trips. Thank goodness I have a been-there, done-that mom in Katie (my cousin's wife) who has a little boy a little younger than Kieran and a baby girl who is just about 7 months.
For all those who want photos - most are up on Facebook right now. Hopefully we'll get those moved here but it takes a bit to blog and now I have to go and wake her up for her next feeding.
So, Thursday night Amelia had "cluster feedings" nearly every hour so I got near to zero sleep. Ken figured out that when she got way too fussy we could "prime the pump" by giving her a little formula or pumped milk via syringe to calm her down enough to eat. We were so proud on Friday when they told us how much she had gained. I was doing everything right, very little to no formula, mostly breastmilk and mostly from me. We even had to feed her at the drs office (which took an hour). We got her home, however, and things went downhill.
Right around dinnertime was her feeding time, she got so angry and screaming that Kieran went upstairs to his room without finishing his dinner because he couldn't take the noise. It took nearly 1 1/2 hours to get her to eat calmly (formula from a bottle) and I was in tears by the end. We had another episode like that last night (though I only let her get really cranked for about 15 mins because I didn't want to wake Kieran - I'm still hanging out on the first floor because of the c-sec). But this morning it's so far so good. Mostly we have to get in front of her feeding cues and to get her woken up enough to eat before she gets too hungry. She is also semi-lazy and doesn't like to work so hard to get the milk so I definitely don't want her getting used to the bottle - though we specifically have a system that still makes her work for her food.
Anyway, last night went (mostly) better and I got Ken to come down and help me twice, she's fed once this morning. We'll see how the rest of it goes. I'm operating well on little sleep. Thank goodness Ken insists that I get some shut eye or I'd probably "soldier through" and then regret it later.
For my own healing, that seems to be going well. I am being very good about using the stairs sparingly though I would dearly love to sleep in my own bed, probably won't be doing that for a few weeks. I still hurt and have ridiculous elephantine feet, but this too should pass. I am not allowed to drive for another 2 weeks (frustrating but does make me glad we live in the city), stairs are roughly the same - only once up and once down for about a week and then I can start increasing my usage. I've already broken that rule but I still take it slowly and am ensuring that I also get healing as Ken reminds me that I need to be well in order to take care of our little bundles of joy.
Kieran has been (mostly) amazing. I feel bad because we are cooped up at home - with Mia feeding every 2 hours she eats for about 15-30 mins of that which means going anywhere for a bit may be difficult until we've got this whole thing down. Way too much TV and video time are going on, I am ashamed to admit, but I am hopeful that once things get back to normal (next week after the holiday Kieran goes back to school, I'll get a better handle on getting out with an infant who needs to feed) we'll be able to do more trips. Thank goodness I have a been-there, done-that mom in Katie (my cousin's wife) who has a little boy a little younger than Kieran and a baby girl who is just about 7 months.
For all those who want photos - most are up on Facebook right now. Hopefully we'll get those moved here but it takes a bit to blog and now I have to go and wake her up for her next feeding.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Welcome Amelia Elizabeth Gauvey
On Monday, June 27, at 11:06 am, we welcomed our little Mia. She was 6 lbs, 4 oz and exactly 19 inches long.
For those keeping track, no, I did not go into labor. I went to the drs on Monday and was told I had very low amniotic fluid. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars, go directly to Labor and Delivery. One of two things would happen - they would double-check me, give me fluids and send me home or they would deliver the baby. Obviously, they delivered.
Thankfully my mom was with me to keep me calm, I called Ken who I swear panicked just a bit. We both sat in the OR Recovery room saying "This is just weird." But, this time a much better experience in terms of being awake for what was happening (no, I did not wail about her hair) and I managed to get the IV in quickly and (mostly) quietly. Still at the hospital not sure when we'll head home, it's been an eventful week.
Kieran and Ken are definitely already in love with Mia. And so am I.
For those keeping track, no, I did not go into labor. I went to the drs on Monday and was told I had very low amniotic fluid. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars, go directly to Labor and Delivery. One of two things would happen - they would double-check me, give me fluids and send me home or they would deliver the baby. Obviously, they delivered.
Thankfully my mom was with me to keep me calm, I called Ken who I swear panicked just a bit. We both sat in the OR Recovery room saying "This is just weird." But, this time a much better experience in terms of being awake for what was happening (no, I did not wail about her hair) and I managed to get the IV in quickly and (mostly) quietly. Still at the hospital not sure when we'll head home, it's been an eventful week.
Kieran and Ken are definitely already in love with Mia. And so am I.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Nearly There
I'm a little less than 3 weeks to my due date. I now have to go every week for check-ups and sonograms. They will do what is called a BPP (Bio Physical Profile) of the baby because I am of AMA (Advanced Maternal Age). Or, as the sono tech said yesterday "Ancient". She was allowed because she's either my age or older. And she said it with irony/sarcasm, not in any way intended to be mean.
The baby was sucking her thumb as we watched yesterday, took a few practice breaths and should now weigh about 6 lbs. She's in the 40/50 percentile right now in terms of weight and all seems well.
I still have a few bits and bobs to do to get ready (like pack my bag for the hospital in case I pop before my c-sec), but we're mostly done. I desperately want to clean house but I run out of steam fairly easily at the end of the day. I don't get tired (oddly, because I'm not sleeping great) but I just don't have energy to do one more thing. Frustrating because I really wanted the house to be in better shape by now. Oh well - I'll have plenty of time in July for that, I expect.
Kieran continues to expand his vocabulary and tell some great stories. His sense of humor is... shall we say Lipshultz-esque? Mostly fart jokes and saying the word "butt". I hope to take a few pictures soon and post here of all the changes we made to the house. Kieran's room is great and he voluntarily goes to his room to play (now that he has plenty of space to do so) for HOURS. He was upset to learn that he won't be at school for a month, but I've got him looking forward to doing day-trips with me and the baby to local farms, to our library for story time, to the science center (oh, yeah, that's another thing I have to do....), to the zoo, etc. He wanted to know if he could come visit his old school too, I checked with the administrators and they said he would be welcome to come for a visit (and they wanted to see the baby).
Still a bit freaked out at the idea of being home with 2 kids, but I think it will be great for all of us. Kieran's ready for the baby to be here so is Ken (now that the carseat is coming) but I can stand to wait a bit longer... not by much because DANG is this uncomfortable. OK, back to work for me. Love to all blog again later.
The baby was sucking her thumb as we watched yesterday, took a few practice breaths and should now weigh about 6 lbs. She's in the 40/50 percentile right now in terms of weight and all seems well.
I still have a few bits and bobs to do to get ready (like pack my bag for the hospital in case I pop before my c-sec), but we're mostly done. I desperately want to clean house but I run out of steam fairly easily at the end of the day. I don't get tired (oddly, because I'm not sleeping great) but I just don't have energy to do one more thing. Frustrating because I really wanted the house to be in better shape by now. Oh well - I'll have plenty of time in July for that, I expect.
Kieran continues to expand his vocabulary and tell some great stories. His sense of humor is... shall we say Lipshultz-esque? Mostly fart jokes and saying the word "butt". I hope to take a few pictures soon and post here of all the changes we made to the house. Kieran's room is great and he voluntarily goes to his room to play (now that he has plenty of space to do so) for HOURS. He was upset to learn that he won't be at school for a month, but I've got him looking forward to doing day-trips with me and the baby to local farms, to our library for story time, to the science center (oh, yeah, that's another thing I have to do....), to the zoo, etc. He wanted to know if he could come visit his old school too, I checked with the administrators and they said he would be welcome to come for a visit (and they wanted to see the baby).
Still a bit freaked out at the idea of being home with 2 kids, but I think it will be great for all of us. Kieran's ready for the baby to be here so is Ken (now that the carseat is coming) but I can stand to wait a bit longer... not by much because DANG is this uncomfortable. OK, back to work for me. Love to all blog again later.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Quick Update
Went in for my final sonogram today. Everything is good, bloodflow is good, baby currently weighs in around 5 lbs 6 oz (estimated based on measurements they took). Still a girl - yes, I made them double-check.
Ken laughed at me for doing the double-check. I was freaking out about it this morning (had a hard time sleeping last night which left my brain WAY too much time to worry on things). I was worried because I knew my mother-in-law has gone and bought everything pink or purple within 3 states of her. Because we have so many baby clothes for a girl, because I don't have a back-up boy name. So many 'becauses'.
Anyway, the tech swore I asked her last time to double-check (I don't remember that - I do remember asking to confirm there was only one), but hey, I'm the one operating on low sleep so I guess I should take her word for it.
Crib is set up, monitor is set up, bringing up our glider and ottoman from the basement tonight. Mostly done with the Great Gauvey Move of 2011. Kieran went into the baby's room last night asking "is she here yet"? I know how you feel, kiddo, I truly do.
Ken laughed at me for doing the double-check. I was freaking out about it this morning (had a hard time sleeping last night which left my brain WAY too much time to worry on things). I was worried because I knew my mother-in-law has gone and bought everything pink or purple within 3 states of her. Because we have so many baby clothes for a girl, because I don't have a back-up boy name. So many 'becauses'.
Anyway, the tech swore I asked her last time to double-check (I don't remember that - I do remember asking to confirm there was only one), but hey, I'm the one operating on low sleep so I guess I should take her word for it.
Crib is set up, monitor is set up, bringing up our glider and ottoman from the basement tonight. Mostly done with the Great Gauvey Move of 2011. Kieran went into the baby's room last night asking "is she here yet"? I know how you feel, kiddo, I truly do.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The Great Gauvey Move of 2011
The upstairs bedroom was finished this past week by our contractor. Ken moved us upstairs (bed and one dresser) on Saturday. Sunday we mostly ran around and finished moving ourselves out of what would soon be Kieran's room.
Yesterday, Ken moved Kieran into our old bedroom - which is really 2 rooms in one. He now has a playroom as well as a bedroom. It's supercool. Oh, and Ben 10 stickers for his walls. Kieran was so excited by his new room he played in there for 3 hours (at least 1/2 of that by himself). He even slept just fine without his nightlight on and in a completely new room. We'll see if the trend continues.
The nursery is last on the list. This coming weekend, I'm going to finish going through the clothes that Kieran has in there, figuring out what is giveaway (or sell) of things too small for him, emtpy his old dresser and basically just clean. We'll be cleaning the upstairs library and bathroom as well (and by we, I mean me), doing huge donations to Goodwill and the Library and basically just getting it ready for the crib to be set up (Ken has decreed I am not to set up the crib myself).
Now, onto the doctor's report. I went today for my checkup and was pleasantly surprised to see I had gained only 1 pound since my last visit (2 weeks ago, but I'll take it). I have a final sonogram on the 10th and then another drs appt on June 13th and from there I go each week until I deliver.
The Girl Has TurnedI was anticipating another c-section. Every time we went in for a sonogram (and I've had 5 or so now), she was sitting breech, just like Kieran. I even explained to Kieran how he was born, just getting him ready for the thought that I would have a line on my belly again.
But lo and behold, the girl moved around and is now head-down. What this means is that I can go into labor and not have a c-section, but the doctors will not induce me. I looked at the stats/risks on doing what is called VBAC (for those interested, you can look it up) and have decided that if I go into labor, I'll let it happen. Working on scheduling my c-section now and I should have that date shortly. But, if I go into labor before that, we'll let her come the way she wants to. OK, enough for now. I knew it had been awhile so wanted to blog for all those die-hard blog readers. Love ya. Blog again... uh, eventually.
Yesterday, Ken moved Kieran into our old bedroom - which is really 2 rooms in one. He now has a playroom as well as a bedroom. It's supercool. Oh, and Ben 10 stickers for his walls. Kieran was so excited by his new room he played in there for 3 hours (at least 1/2 of that by himself). He even slept just fine without his nightlight on and in a completely new room. We'll see if the trend continues.
The nursery is last on the list. This coming weekend, I'm going to finish going through the clothes that Kieran has in there, figuring out what is giveaway (or sell) of things too small for him, emtpy his old dresser and basically just clean. We'll be cleaning the upstairs library and bathroom as well (and by we, I mean me), doing huge donations to Goodwill and the Library and basically just getting it ready for the crib to be set up (Ken has decreed I am not to set up the crib myself).
Now, onto the doctor's report. I went today for my checkup and was pleasantly surprised to see I had gained only 1 pound since my last visit (2 weeks ago, but I'll take it). I have a final sonogram on the 10th and then another drs appt on June 13th and from there I go each week until I deliver.
The Girl Has TurnedI was anticipating another c-section. Every time we went in for a sonogram (and I've had 5 or so now), she was sitting breech, just like Kieran. I even explained to Kieran how he was born, just getting him ready for the thought that I would have a line on my belly again.
But lo and behold, the girl moved around and is now head-down. What this means is that I can go into labor and not have a c-section, but the doctors will not induce me. I looked at the stats/risks on doing what is called VBAC (for those interested, you can look it up) and have decided that if I go into labor, I'll let it happen. Working on scheduling my c-section now and I should have that date shortly. But, if I go into labor before that, we'll let her come the way she wants to. OK, enough for now. I knew it had been awhile so wanted to blog for all those die-hard blog readers. Love ya. Blog again... uh, eventually.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days
I've been a bad blogging mom. And by that, I mean I realize I haven't blogged in nearly a month. Not much is new or changed, but we've finally made some progress. Our 3rd floor bedroom should be move-in ready this coming weekend. That means Ken and I get to move upstairs, Kieran moves to our room next weekend and we can set up the nursery after that. WHEW. Then, hopefully, we can finish getting rid of all the junk piled around our house everywhere.
I tried to make headway on that front this past weekend. Signed us up for a community yard sale (since we technically have no yard, this was more like a "park sale" where people in the neighborhood came to a park to sell their wares). We only broke even (spent $10 to rent a table) because of the rainy weather but we did get to go to Goodwill afterwards and dump everything that didn't sell, so a little progress made.
Other than that, things aren't much different. Work is crazy, Kieran is awesome (though alternatingly frustrating as well), Ken is doing better - his foot is healing and he can cycle and swim again.
Kieran did have his first camping trip and loved it. He is insisting that he get to go fishing on his next trip and we'll see if we can't invite any and all relatives to make it a cousin-extravaganza in addition to camping fun. I will still keep my tush at home and "rough" it by cleaning house while they're gone.
Finally, I do not yet have a due date for Girl Gauvey. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow and may get a date then. Either way, I'm a little less than 2 months from the original due date - 7/11/11. I can't wait to be done being pregnant, but I don't know that I'm ready to have a baby in the house again.
I tried to make headway on that front this past weekend. Signed us up for a community yard sale (since we technically have no yard, this was more like a "park sale" where people in the neighborhood came to a park to sell their wares). We only broke even (spent $10 to rent a table) because of the rainy weather but we did get to go to Goodwill afterwards and dump everything that didn't sell, so a little progress made.
Other than that, things aren't much different. Work is crazy, Kieran is awesome (though alternatingly frustrating as well), Ken is doing better - his foot is healing and he can cycle and swim again.
Kieran did have his first camping trip and loved it. He is insisting that he get to go fishing on his next trip and we'll see if we can't invite any and all relatives to make it a cousin-extravaganza in addition to camping fun. I will still keep my tush at home and "rough" it by cleaning house while they're gone.
Finally, I do not yet have a due date for Girl Gauvey. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow and may get a date then. Either way, I'm a little less than 2 months from the original due date - 7/11/11. I can't wait to be done being pregnant, but I don't know that I'm ready to have a baby in the house again.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Rain, Rain, Go Away
Poor Kieran has yet to have a t-ball game. We've had four scheduled so far and every single one has been cancelled because of bad weather. Maybe Saturday will be the day... who knows?
We had some wonderful Passover dinners this week, Sunday with my mom's side of the family and Monday with my dad's side. Kieran had a blast both days and has a new fan in Eli, my cousin's little boy (2 years old and as tall as Kieran). The two of them had oodles of fun running around like crazy and I hope to get them together again soon.
Sunday the easter bunny will visit with a great basket for us... I mean Kieran. He already got his easter cards and gifts from Grandma and Gma (money and chocolates - thanks!). I have tomorrow off for Good Friday and Kieran and I are going to head to Gma's house to make some no-bake cookies and maybe some macaroons. If it's nice out in the morning, we may hit the zoo first for their easter egg hunt since Saturday's egg hunt is too close to game time.
Swimming is still big for Kieran and though he didn't have a class this past Sunday we went to the Y anyway where he swam by himself for an hour. I'm going to have to get myself a maternity swimsuit so I can go into the water with him. Good thing our pool is indoors or that activity might have been cancelled too.
OK, gotta jet. Love to all blog again soon.
We had some wonderful Passover dinners this week, Sunday with my mom's side of the family and Monday with my dad's side. Kieran had a blast both days and has a new fan in Eli, my cousin's little boy (2 years old and as tall as Kieran). The two of them had oodles of fun running around like crazy and I hope to get them together again soon.
Sunday the easter bunny will visit with a great basket for us... I mean Kieran. He already got his easter cards and gifts from Grandma and Gma (money and chocolates - thanks!). I have tomorrow off for Good Friday and Kieran and I are going to head to Gma's house to make some no-bake cookies and maybe some macaroons. If it's nice out in the morning, we may hit the zoo first for their easter egg hunt since Saturday's egg hunt is too close to game time.
Swimming is still big for Kieran and though he didn't have a class this past Sunday we went to the Y anyway where he swam by himself for an hour. I'm going to have to get myself a maternity swimsuit so I can go into the water with him. Good thing our pool is indoors or that activity might have been cancelled too.
OK, gotta jet. Love to all blog again soon.
Monday, April 04, 2011
The Craziness Continues
Not much is new in the Gauvey household. I'm going crazy with all the junk we have piled everywhere (that's what happens when you have a bedroom you use only for storage) from the renovation. Plus the dust and dirt from the work. To make matters (slightly) worse, Ken hurt his foot and needs to stay off his feet as much as possible, so we're not getting much done by the way of cleaning.
This doesn't really affect Kieran much at all, although I have noticed an increased tendency from him not to put his toys away. He used to be very good about it. Ah, well, I do have hope that within a month or so we'll be back to relative normalcy (along with a cleaner house). Part of it is on me, I get so tired that I don't have much left to do housework when I get home. I need to carve out some additional time to do this because it truly is driving me crazy.
Kieran continues to amaze with some of the things he'll do. He surprised Ken & I on Sunday by jumping off the diving platform at swim class without holding anyone's hand (last time he refused to go without holding the teacher's hand and then only did it once). He'll probably go for another round of Eel classes since we missed two of the six weeks this time around.
Saturday was his first t-ball practice and Kieran had a great time, even if he was a little figdet-y. He is at least a full head shorter than everyone else on his team, but I have sneaking suspicion he is also the youngest kid on the team as well. He did great hitting the ball (got a few "oohs" and "nice" from the adults on his first big hit), also did good at catching grounders, but we'll need to work on catching fly balls and throwing to someone else on the team. He loved every minute of it, so I'm not worried - I know he'll pick it all up quickly.
That's about it for now. Love to all, blog again soon.
This doesn't really affect Kieran much at all, although I have noticed an increased tendency from him not to put his toys away. He used to be very good about it. Ah, well, I do have hope that within a month or so we'll be back to relative normalcy (along with a cleaner house). Part of it is on me, I get so tired that I don't have much left to do housework when I get home. I need to carve out some additional time to do this because it truly is driving me crazy.
Kieran continues to amaze with some of the things he'll do. He surprised Ken & I on Sunday by jumping off the diving platform at swim class without holding anyone's hand (last time he refused to go without holding the teacher's hand and then only did it once). He'll probably go for another round of Eel classes since we missed two of the six weeks this time around.
Saturday was his first t-ball practice and Kieran had a great time, even if he was a little figdet-y. He is at least a full head shorter than everyone else on his team, but I have sneaking suspicion he is also the youngest kid on the team as well. He did great hitting the ball (got a few "oohs" and "nice" from the adults on his first big hit), also did good at catching grounders, but we'll need to work on catching fly balls and throwing to someone else on the team. He loved every minute of it, so I'm not worried - I know he'll pick it all up quickly.
That's about it for now. Love to all, blog again soon.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Kieran-isms
Having him be able to carry on conversations is a riot. Some of the things that are making HIM laugh these days include:
Saying the words "Pineapple", "Asparagus", or "Poopy". Of course any bathroom word could be substituted for poopy - including butt, poop, and toilet.
Making up words. The other day he told me the Spanish word for something was "Areja". Then he said it was "Arepa". I asked if he was making the word up. He fessed up and said he was.
Talking to my belly and getting a baby voice response. I'm not sure if I've created a monster or not with this one. Kieran had been hugging my belly and talking to his sister and one day I responded in a high-pitched voice. This made him laugh so hard that he now asks me to do the baby voice. I can't lie... it is funny.
Saying the words "Pineapple", "Asparagus", or "Poopy". Of course any bathroom word could be substituted for poopy - including butt, poop, and toilet.
Making up words. The other day he told me the Spanish word for something was "Areja". Then he said it was "Arepa". I asked if he was making the word up. He fessed up and said he was.
Talking to my belly and getting a baby voice response. I'm not sure if I've created a monster or not with this one. Kieran had been hugging my belly and talking to his sister and one day I responded in a high-pitched voice. This made him laugh so hard that he now asks me to do the baby voice. I can't lie... it is funny.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Batman School
Last night on the ride home Kieran and I talked about one of his classmates, who is leaving to go to a new school very soon. I told him that he'd be going to a different school in the fall (assuming that it all works out), that the new school had a uniform, etc. Kieran then told me that he was going to go to Batman School.
Me: Who teaches at this school?
Kieran: Batman
Me: What does he teach?
Kieran: Spelling. (pause) And throwing batarangs.
Me: Batman teaches spelling and how to throw batarangs?
Kieran: Yes. And counting. Spelling, throwing batarangs and counting.
I think that Ken wants to go there too. Though I don't think he needs help with spelling or counting.
Me: Who teaches at this school?
Kieran: Batman
Me: What does he teach?
Kieran: Spelling. (pause) And throwing batarangs.
Me: Batman teaches spelling and how to throw batarangs?
Kieran: Yes. And counting. Spelling, throwing batarangs and counting.
I think that Ken wants to go there too. Though I don't think he needs help with spelling or counting.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Potential Future Careers for Baby Girl Gauvey
Given what I feel, here is a short list:
- Dancer/Choreographer
- Kickboxer
- Mixed Martial Arist
- Swimmer
- Soccer player
That is all.
Monday, March 07, 2011
Where to Begin...?
It's been awhile since I blogged. We have more than a decent amount of things going on, with Kieran's attitude sometimes one of them. He has frequently told me that I am not his mother (usually when I tell him he must brush his teeth or that he may not have cookies for dinner). I know it pisses Ken off to no end, though I am looking at it with amusement. I keep telling him that he is not able to change the fact that I am his mom and it's just so horrible that I want him to eat healthy/have clean teeth/go potty. This doesn't happen THAT often but it is occuring with frequency. Generally, he likes to assert his right to say no (though he also realizes he gets overruled). 9 times out of ten he is AMAZING and does what is asked of him. It's that tenth time that's the kicker.
Kieran started his next stage of swim lessons - he's graduated from the Pike classes at the Y and is now an Eel. He's not a fan of jumping in the water without help and doesn't like to get his ears wet (he had water on the ears awhile back) but he does love being in the water and swimming around. We've also signed him up for a local t-ball league and that starts April 2.
My belly continues to grow (much to my chagrin) and I've hit the stage where I really need to watch what I'm eating because I am hungry 24/7 most days. We'll see how bad my weight gain is when I go to the drs again at the end of this month. I started doing a baby voice for Kieran when he hugged and kissed my belly and said things like "I love you baby." He loved the baby voice so much that this morning he insisted that Ken hug and kiss my belly and then Kieran made a baby voice and said "I love you too daddy."
On the "life is never what you expect it" side of things...
My mom has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She found a lump and it was recently confirmed as cancer. She'll be starting Chemo in a week or so which will last for a few months before they figure out what type of operation she'll need. She was helping my grandmother on a weekly basis with bills, sorting mail, etc. and my brother and I will be taking that on so she can focus on herself. Unfortunately, because I'm knocked up it means I can't always come with her to help or be by her side, which is frustrating. On the upside she's got a great boyfriend who I know will likely move in to take care of her (even if she objects, I suspect) so I know she won't be alone.
I told Kieran this morning that Gma was sick, that she might be sick for awhile and that it might change how she looks (she might be skinnier and her hair might be different) but that it did not change the fact that Gma loved him lots. He said he understood. Ken wasn't sure if we should say anything to Kieran but his cousins know what's going on and I wouldn't want him to be shocked if we saw my mom and she looked drastically different. I also let him know that what Gma has he can't catch, like a cold. The only question he asked was "Why" when I told him that Gma was sick. I just said "Well, sometimes, it happens like that."
Kieran started his next stage of swim lessons - he's graduated from the Pike classes at the Y and is now an Eel. He's not a fan of jumping in the water without help and doesn't like to get his ears wet (he had water on the ears awhile back) but he does love being in the water and swimming around. We've also signed him up for a local t-ball league and that starts April 2.
My belly continues to grow (much to my chagrin) and I've hit the stage where I really need to watch what I'm eating because I am hungry 24/7 most days. We'll see how bad my weight gain is when I go to the drs again at the end of this month. I started doing a baby voice for Kieran when he hugged and kissed my belly and said things like "I love you baby." He loved the baby voice so much that this morning he insisted that Ken hug and kiss my belly and then Kieran made a baby voice and said "I love you too daddy."
On the "life is never what you expect it" side of things...
My mom has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She found a lump and it was recently confirmed as cancer. She'll be starting Chemo in a week or so which will last for a few months before they figure out what type of operation she'll need. She was helping my grandmother on a weekly basis with bills, sorting mail, etc. and my brother and I will be taking that on so she can focus on herself. Unfortunately, because I'm knocked up it means I can't always come with her to help or be by her side, which is frustrating. On the upside she's got a great boyfriend who I know will likely move in to take care of her (even if she objects, I suspect) so I know she won't be alone.
I told Kieran this morning that Gma was sick, that she might be sick for awhile and that it might change how she looks (she might be skinnier and her hair might be different) but that it did not change the fact that Gma loved him lots. He said he understood. Ken wasn't sure if we should say anything to Kieran but his cousins know what's going on and I wouldn't want him to be shocked if we saw my mom and she looked drastically different. I also let him know that what Gma has he can't catch, like a cold. The only question he asked was "Why" when I told him that Gma was sick. I just said "Well, sometimes, it happens like that."
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Baby Girl Gauvey. Coming July 2011
So, here's the full story. My blood test results came back 'slightly elevated' (for AFP), which meant there was the possibilty of neural defect or an open spine issue with the baby. My sonogram revealed none of this (though the kid is currently sitting breech and we didn't get to see her tush) so the baby is fine.
We did learn the baby is a girl, that she is on track for a 7/11/11 due date, and that we may have a name picked out (which I will not post anywhere until she is born and I'm not 100% on anyway). Kieran is actually starting to get excited about being a big brother to a little sister, even though he had said he wanted a brother. I think when we mentioned that Becca and Morgan are little sisters to big brothers, he started to get on board.
What does the testing mean from here on out? Just that they will be monitoring me a bit more closely than they would otherwise do. I'll get more sonograms than I might otherwise have gotten (next one scheduled for 3/9) and overall just different tactics of watching what's going on with the pregnancy.
Again, I am fine, the baby is fine. The chances of something being wrong at this point are slim so don't worry - I'm not.
Now, some images of the baby.
We did learn the baby is a girl, that she is on track for a 7/11/11 due date, and that we may have a name picked out (which I will not post anywhere until she is born and I'm not 100% on anyway). Kieran is actually starting to get excited about being a big brother to a little sister, even though he had said he wanted a brother. I think when we mentioned that Becca and Morgan are little sisters to big brothers, he started to get on board.
What does the testing mean from here on out? Just that they will be monitoring me a bit more closely than they would otherwise do. I'll get more sonograms than I might otherwise have gotten (next one scheduled for 3/9) and overall just different tactics of watching what's going on with the pregnancy.
Again, I am fine, the baby is fine. The chances of something being wrong at this point are slim so don't worry - I'm not.
Now, some images of the baby.
Monday, January 31, 2011
A Few Photos
Finally got a new camera and here are some photos we took with it.
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| Kieran's new favorite shirt is his Baltimore Ravens sweatshirt from Zadie. He has worn it 3 days in a row. |
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| Kieran and his silly birthday "hat" the stars say Happy Birthday. |
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| We went duckpin bowling for his birthday. He had a great time, especially because Gma brought orange balls (his favorite color) for him to use. |
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| Kieran's birthday cake. Orange writing, of course. |
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The Stats - Year 4
Kieran had his four year doctors appointment yesterday. He did GREAT with getting shots, though he's told me he doesn't want to do it again. I have tried to explain that I would not ask him to do it if it wasn't important - he's not buying it.
He's managed to jump to the 25th percentile for weight and height. Weighing in at 30 lbs 6 oz he's still too small for a booster seat but he's 3 ft and 1 1/4 inches tall so he may need to switch from the carseat we've got as his head goes above the back.
His vocabulary is ever-growing. Sometimes he'll ask for the definition of a word, sometimes he'll just fake it. Don't know which I like more. He's also very into helping. Today I brought his clean laundry down to his room and, without being asked, he started to put his clothes away. He doesn't know how to fold yet so I had to go back and help, but he was very happy that he knew where things went.
He's managed to jump to the 25th percentile for weight and height. Weighing in at 30 lbs 6 oz he's still too small for a booster seat but he's 3 ft and 1 1/4 inches tall so he may need to switch from the carseat we've got as his head goes above the back.
His vocabulary is ever-growing. Sometimes he'll ask for the definition of a word, sometimes he'll just fake it. Don't know which I like more. He's also very into helping. Today I brought his clean laundry down to his room and, without being asked, he started to put his clothes away. He doesn't know how to fold yet so I had to go back and help, but he was very happy that he knew where things went.
Friday, January 07, 2011
Best Pre-Big-Brother Ever
Kieran is starting to get that I'm pregnant. It helps that my stomach is popping a little bit. I showed him my bigger belly the other night and he rubbed it with his hands and told the baby he loved it.
He asked if I thought it was a boy or girl. I told him I really didn't know. He said "I think it's a boy, what do you think Mommy?" I said again that I didnt' know.
"I think you think it's a girl."
Whatever gave him that idea is beyond me.
The other night I was waiting in his room while Ken was upstairs giving Kieran his bath. Kieran comes running into the room and bops his head right into my stomach. When I let out an "oof" he backed up and said "Sorry baby!" He then looked up at me and asked if he could give the baby a hug. I said of course he could and he put his hands on either side of my tummy and squeezed very gently. He then kissed my stomach and said "I love you baby."
Of course, we haven't gone into the fact that babies are helpless and when this kid is born it'll need a lot of our help and attention. But, I guess we'll get there. For now, he loves the baby, let's keep it that way.
He asked if I thought it was a boy or girl. I told him I really didn't know. He said "I think it's a boy, what do you think Mommy?" I said again that I didnt' know.
"I think you think it's a girl."
Whatever gave him that idea is beyond me.
The other night I was waiting in his room while Ken was upstairs giving Kieran his bath. Kieran comes running into the room and bops his head right into my stomach. When I let out an "oof" he backed up and said "Sorry baby!" He then looked up at me and asked if he could give the baby a hug. I said of course he could and he put his hands on either side of my tummy and squeezed very gently. He then kissed my stomach and said "I love you baby."
Of course, we haven't gone into the fact that babies are helpless and when this kid is born it'll need a lot of our help and attention. But, I guess we'll get there. For now, he loves the baby, let's keep it that way.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
The Big Brother Era
Yep, we're ready to annouce it, though we're not 100% out of the woods on tests, that Kieran will be a big brother in July.
We told Kieran on New Year's Eve over dinner. He seems to understand the concept (there's a baby in mommy's belly) but it's hard as I'm not really showing yet. Too smart for his own good, he's already asked if the reason I've not been feeling well is because of the baby in my belly. Everything I read told me to tell him "no" so he doesn't blame the baby for making mommy sick, so a little white lie for now.
My family is very excited though I have likely ruined my dad's birthday plans (he wanted the whole family to go to Disney in August - no way I'm taking a one-month-old to wake everyone up all night). I think he's going to forgive me.
My brother, dad and mom have all said they think "boy". Ken & I just aren't sure. We had a sonogram (not the anatomy one, that's not until February) recently and we were telling the doctor that everyone was guessing boy. She asked if she could have a guess too - we said "Sure, why not?" She guessed girl. When we asked her if that was based on any experience or just a gut feel she told us we'd have to wait.
Grrr. I hate waiting.
We told Kieran on New Year's Eve over dinner. He seems to understand the concept (there's a baby in mommy's belly) but it's hard as I'm not really showing yet. Too smart for his own good, he's already asked if the reason I've not been feeling well is because of the baby in my belly. Everything I read told me to tell him "no" so he doesn't blame the baby for making mommy sick, so a little white lie for now.
My family is very excited though I have likely ruined my dad's birthday plans (he wanted the whole family to go to Disney in August - no way I'm taking a one-month-old to wake everyone up all night). I think he's going to forgive me.
My brother, dad and mom have all said they think "boy". Ken & I just aren't sure. We had a sonogram (not the anatomy one, that's not until February) recently and we were telling the doctor that everyone was guessing boy. She asked if she could have a guess too - we said "Sure, why not?" She guessed girl. When we asked her if that was based on any experience or just a gut feel she told us we'd have to wait.
Grrr. I hate waiting.
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