Growth spurts & the squirts - Oh my!
Week six was a little tough sleep-wise. Marin had a major growth spurt and as a result, some wacky feeding behavior during late week six and early week seven. She kept me on my toes by sprinkling in a few normal nights of one four-hour stretch of sleep and eating about every 2.5-3 hours with intermittant days of eating every 1-1.5 hours. The days she ate more frequently, she also ate less, and she was more fussy (or seemed to be).
It looks like we're back into a rhythm again approaching week eight with 2-3 hours between daytime feedings, a fussy period for about 2 hours of crying/pain - but she is able to be soothed - between about 8:30pm - midnight, followed by about 4-5 hours of solid sleep, then 2-3 hours of sleep for the next two cycles. I pump after our early-morning feed, following the long sleep stretch. After feeding her, I still pump between 8-16oz. I know this is not typical, and I'm thankful to be able to store some for later, even though that means sacrificing some sleep to do so. I don't think I could sleep being that uncomfortably full anyway, though. It's pretty painful.
The days she cluster-feeds are more difficult, because they are unpredictable, and feel like they may not end. Thankfully, they do & although I don't really ever get to "catch up" on sleep, I at least feel like I'm getting a little more for now.
She doesn't spit-up too often, and when she does, it's usually not enough to warrant a change of clothes (hers & most definitely not mine). Though she still does spit up several hours after laying down to sleep. This is a welcome change, because with her big brother, we were both constantly covered in spit-up, due to acid reflux. :( I have been curious about whether she does have acid reflux too, however. She does seem to have bouts where she is in immense pain, and no amount of burping can give her relief. Then, she'll "spit up", and it will come through her nose. She acts as though it's very painful. I always hate seeing babies in pain.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
More Noise, Please.
Clint just wrapped up an extremely busy Finals week, and we're thankful to have iur "Daddy"/Husband back. The kids have been really desperate for more time with him. Marin scans the room & when she sees Clint, her eyes light up & she grins his way, for as long as he'll give her his attention.
Marin is cooing & gooing, gurgling & blowing raspberries like crazy. She loves to be vocal & is starting to show preference for people she recognizes with gorgeous eye-twinkling smiles,She is also a magnet for her sweet big brother's attention, which helavishly gives her. Jonas is a wonderful helper & the best BIG brother imaginable. He loves Marin so much. He loves to be next to her whenever possible & tells her how pretty she is & how much he loves her. He's anxious to teach her about the world, but is satisfied just cuddling her, [rotecting er, translating for her & watching her grow for now. Marin is also able to reach out & grab toys with more coordination now & sit up with little support. She is such a sweet baby & is content most of the time...but if she is unhappy - everyone knows. ;)
Jonas celebrated his 3rd birthday at the zoo this year. About 10 kids & their parents made it out to join us. The kids donned tails & visors with ears & rode the Cenenniel Choo-Choo around like little leopards. I wrote a whole post about it, if you need to know more. It turned out ot be a great party.
Jonas has been really asserting himslef lately. He feels very independent, and wants to do everything by himself. He also has learned to say N..O...a lot, much to my dismay. He 'll tell me "No, I'm not going to do _____ (Insert whatever I just asked him to do here). " Then he'll wait to see my reaction. He's getting into trouble a lot & is at the stage where whatever is in his reach is fair play. If we go out to eat and there are cabinets, he's into them. BBQ bottles, at eye level....what a great toy! YIKES!
He is really testing me lately with tantrums and BIG displays in public places. He likes to see how far he can push me. Mom said not to touch the tv, but maybe I can touch the frame around the tv...is this okay? At the dentists office during my exam the other day, he kept raising and lowering the chair I was sitting in, as the dentist was consulting me & Marin was screaming. My doctor was very understanding, but after asking Jonas 15 times to stop politely, I was getting embarrassed because he just ignored me. Jonas is really showing me that he makes a choice to behave....or not to. He loves preschool, and although he is presenting his teacher with the same "listening" challenges, he is doing very well there.
Jonas started group swim lessons at our gym. He's doing well, but I'm not sure he's ready for the group environment yet. In order to get him to focus (even minimally) on what the teacher is saying, I have to sit right beside him & block him from the pool toys - which are irrresistable to him. The teacher bypasses him several times during the course of the lesson, because he's not participating & is not ready for his "turn". She suggested that I look into private lessons. I'd love to do that, but they are pretty expensive. I may just wait until Jonas and I can spend some time in the pool together over the summer. Maybe I can help him some.
I've been sewing up a storm lately. After I sent Jonas to school in his "tie" t-shirt, they commissioned me to make them for the pre-K end-of-year program, I also have a few t-shit dresses to make....which I have no clue how to do. Better get busy!
Marin is cooing & gooing, gurgling & blowing raspberries like crazy. She loves to be vocal & is starting to show preference for people she recognizes with gorgeous eye-twinkling smiles,She is also a magnet for her sweet big brother's attention, which helavishly gives her. Jonas is a wonderful helper & the best BIG brother imaginable. He loves Marin so much. He loves to be next to her whenever possible & tells her how pretty she is & how much he loves her. He's anxious to teach her about the world, but is satisfied just cuddling her, [rotecting er, translating for her & watching her grow for now. Marin is also able to reach out & grab toys with more coordination now & sit up with little support. She is such a sweet baby & is content most of the time...but if she is unhappy - everyone knows. ;)
Jonas celebrated his 3rd birthday at the zoo this year. About 10 kids & their parents made it out to join us. The kids donned tails & visors with ears & rode the Cenenniel Choo-Choo around like little leopards. I wrote a whole post about it, if you need to know more. It turned out ot be a great party.
Jonas has been really asserting himslef lately. He feels very independent, and wants to do everything by himself. He also has learned to say N..O...a lot, much to my dismay. He 'll tell me "No, I'm not going to do _____ (Insert whatever I just asked him to do here). " Then he'll wait to see my reaction. He's getting into trouble a lot & is at the stage where whatever is in his reach is fair play. If we go out to eat and there are cabinets, he's into them. BBQ bottles, at eye level....what a great toy! YIKES!
He is really testing me lately with tantrums and BIG displays in public places. He likes to see how far he can push me. Mom said not to touch the tv, but maybe I can touch the frame around the tv...is this okay? At the dentists office during my exam the other day, he kept raising and lowering the chair I was sitting in, as the dentist was consulting me & Marin was screaming. My doctor was very understanding, but after asking Jonas 15 times to stop politely, I was getting embarrassed because he just ignored me. Jonas is really showing me that he makes a choice to behave....or not to. He loves preschool, and although he is presenting his teacher with the same "listening" challenges, he is doing very well there.
Jonas started group swim lessons at our gym. He's doing well, but I'm not sure he's ready for the group environment yet. In order to get him to focus (even minimally) on what the teacher is saying, I have to sit right beside him & block him from the pool toys - which are irrresistable to him. The teacher bypasses him several times during the course of the lesson, because he's not participating & is not ready for his "turn". She suggested that I look into private lessons. I'd love to do that, but they are pretty expensive. I may just wait until Jonas and I can spend some time in the pool together over the summer. Maybe I can help him some.
I've been sewing up a storm lately. After I sent Jonas to school in his "tie" t-shirt, they commissioned me to make them for the pre-K end-of-year program, I also have a few t-shit dresses to make....which I have no clue how to do. Better get busy!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
ConGRADulations Dad!
Things have been so busy around our household. It feels like we've been moving 100 miles an hour and like we've been being pulled in many directions. Marin is finally sleeping more consistently overnight, and Jonas is still eagerly exploring his new independence.
I also had some exciting things going on on May 7th. I had my 19th Molar extracted....yep...removed. That means on Clint's happy day, I was in excruciating pain...not the best planning on my part. I had a cap that was holding my bridge in place. It had been loose since I had Jonas, and I popped it back into place, but after having Marin - it was loose again. This time, it was also painful, so I finally got it checked out. Unfortunately, the tooth was not fixable, so I had to get it removed. I am opting to get implants instead of getting a larger (less permanent) bridge. I feel like such an old lady having a gap in my teeth for now, and eventually 2 fake teeth, but at least I'll be able to eat on both sides again!
The kids grew a little restless at the graduation. Marin started screaming minutes before Clint actually walked, so we had to step outside, and I missed it! I did get to see him stand and get recognized for his outstanding grade achievements though. We're so proud of him! We are anxious to see what God has in store for him (and us) next!
Great job love - you did it in stride. We're proud of you & we love you!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Uno, Dos, Tres!
I've been busy all week sewing tails and making cute foam visors for Jonas' 3rd birthday party this week. I know you probably have no idea what I'm talking about, but I promise there will be pictures to come from the grand event. We're having a party at the OKC Zoo & I wanted all of the little party animals to get to play in style.
My mom (Mimi) is making the cake again this year. Last year she made an entire train & I'm sure she will outdo herself this year. Jonas is already looking forward to it. Nana is making goody bags for the kids & I've been instructed to bring the birthday boy! The forecast is looking good so far, so God's been tasked with bringing the sunshine & the kids have been tasked with bringing the fun!
He loves being outside and will ask anyone within hearing distance to "go for a little walk". I love seeing this side of him develop. I hope to encourage him with a love for outdoors and exercise. Clint and I love being outdoors, but allergies tend to curb our enthusiasm. Thankfully, this year, we have someone to mow our LARGE lawn for us & we can spend our little time outdoors together enjoying the nice weather...while we have it.
Marin is gooing and cooing up a storm. She is getting so big & is constantly active. She is batting at her toys, reaching, grabbing, smiling, and bicycle kicking. She loves her BIG brother & he loves her! He is so sweet with her & he melts my heart when he sneaks in to give her sweet hugs and tell her that she is "so cute".
Love,
Mandy
Friday, April 2, 2010
Rollin' Rollin' Rollin' Rawhide!
No real raw hide to report, but today during "tummy time" Marin rolled over onto her back! She only rolls to the right, but it was no fluke. She did it twice & let both Mommy & Daddy see! Woo-hoo!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Spring Things
I made some Spring Chick & Egg Peep Cupcakes for Jonas' 1st birthday a couple of years ago.
(YIKES! Has it already been that long!) He is a Spring baby, so I wanted to share my little creations with you. I used noodles and melted marshmallows to create nests similar to "rice krispy treats". Then I perched a Peep marshmallow chick on top, along with a few Malted milk eggs. Then I placed them on top of a frosted cupcake.
I made a center piece with a Springy window flower pot and some floral stems, snipped from a different project. I mounted multi-colored balls to the tops for fun & interest and used moss to cover the foam holding the stems in place. Thank you Dollar Store. 
Please enjoy the pics and ideas, but if you repost my pics please let me know! ;) Unfortunately - we didn't have a good camera at the time, but you should be able to get an idea. ;)
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Busy Day 3_23_10
So, today was an A+ day to sum up an A+ week.
Clint has been out of town for the week for work. Now before everyone starts to feel too sorry for him, let me tell you where he had to go on business. For all of the LOST fans out there, during tonight's episode he said, "I was just there!". In other words, Oahu, Hawaii. He did not have a vacation there though. Rest assured he worked VERY hard. Anyway, yesterday he came home! Woo-hoo!
We've had Nana staying with us for the entire week - which was AMAZING! She is just incredible. She never rests & is such sweet company. She really helped this week breeze by. I wasn't stressed, as I had prepared to be in Clint's absence. Actually, Nana helped it become a productive week, rather than just a week of meager survival. She organized things for us & cleaned seveaal things that had been neglected for a while. Namely, my fridge, stove, kitchen sink & washer & dryer. She also allowed me a few excursions out of the house without the kids in tow. We even managed a trip out of town, along Route 66 - all the way to Quartz Mountain Lodge & Altus, OK. We stayed in the lodge there overnight and Nana visited her aunt in Altus - then we headed back home, stopping briefly in Shawnee to meet up with Sarah & our cousin, Julie, for dinner - then in Seminole to see Julie's beautiful home - then back to our own home sweet home.
Before leaving today, Nana managed to help me tie up several loose ends literally & figuratively. She also did her magic on a few hundred stains in Jonas' infant- 3T clothing. She removed stains from 90% of the garments, ironed them and hung them according to size for me to label for a "Just Between Friends" Spring consignment sale. We had a freak blizzard the day of drop off, so I got to drive about 75 items in the snow and ice to the State Fairgrounds on Saturday evening. I arrived just in the nick of time and hope my items can bring in some $$, as I've already spent some back on the sale!
Jonas had his first day of pre-school today. He is attending Pathways Preschool in Edmond. Things seemed to go very well today, and we got to hear several stories about digging in mud, play laundry machines that needed to be fixed, slides and houses. He ate a box lunch, packed by yours truly, and said goodbye this morning as if he'd been going to the school for ages. He really fit in and handled himself like a champ! I am so proud of my BIG boy! He's not even 3 yet, and they were more nervous than I was about how he would manage, but I knew with his intelligence, sociability and advanced language skills, he would thrive. I was right. He came home and took a nap after class without a fight too - which was a welcome surprise! His new school is twice a week from 9am-3pm. I'm excited to see what new things he learns and it's going to allow me some time complete some things on my "to do" list as well.
The fun doesn't stop there! Marin had her two-month check up today with Dr. Maschino. They were amazed at how much she had grown since her two week appointment. We got some great measurements then it was time for some shots. She had 3 shots and one oral vaccination today, and it was so sad to see her cry. ;( She also bled more than I expected, and I'm curious whether she also might have VonWillibrand's like her brother. She didn't cry for long though, and hasn't had any adverse reactions so far to the shots. I did give her Tylenol at the doctor's office & I think that helped her some. She was 12lbs.15oz, before a feeding, putting her in the 90-97% for weight. She measured 23.25in, putting her in the 75-90% for height and her head circumference was 40cm, putting her in the 90th% for head circumference. So, although she's a little round, she's a perfectly proportional baby! ;) She's still got a lot of gorgeous nearly black hair and deep blue eyes. Her skin is beautiful, and she's getting beautuful thick long eyelashes. She still has a light heart-shaped birthmark on her upper lip - which perfectly complements her little cupd's bow lips. She's so pretty, I could stare at her for days on end! Then again, I'm a little biased about both of my precious & beautiful kiddos. What Mom isn't?
She has a touch of cradle cap, which our doctor told us we could clear up with about a dime sized amount of Selson Blue or other dandruff wash & her baby brush. She also has a nodule just above the top of her neck on her lower head on one side. After feeling it, the doctor told us she thought it was just a little growth of the bone, and that she was not concerned as it did not move and gave no indication of being a cyst or anything of that nature. She also has a small grayish spot on her right wrist, on the arm just before her hand. The doctor examined it closely and said she wasn't concerned about the looks of that either. She's had both of these things since birth, so it made me feel better to have them examined.
Marin has also been sitting up in her Bumbo seat this week for several short periods of time. Her neck support is outstanding and she's very strong in general. Today at the doctor's office, the doctor exclaimed as Marin pushed back against her hand, then when rolled onto her stomach, Marin supported herself with her head lifted up and both arms down. I was proud. I guess her "tummy" time is paying off. She is also cooing and gooing a lot lately. If you have a quiet moment with her and talk directly with her, she will not disappoint. She loves these quiet conversations.
Some other even better news...Marin slept through the night for the first time last night! Yes, she did - but I did not. I kept waking up hearing her squirm around. Then I'd patiently watch as she fell back asleep - thankful & amazed - but a little sore! ;) She went to bed around 11:30pm and woke up at 7:00am! She actually slept a lot the day leading up to that, so I was surprised, but excited that we're heading in the direction of more regular sleeping patterns! Woo-hoo! Becky came up last week & I was able to give her about 6 bags of 40oz of milk & was really excited to contribute! I think I'm going to be pumping less soon, and am also okay with that development. ;)
Lastly, before leaving, Nana took a look at my sewing machine. She and I did some trouble shooting and figured out the problem with my machine's tension and bobbin. The thread was getting stuck on a plastic piece under the bobbin box. After some tweaking - my machine is backup and running!!! I can not even begin to express how much this thrills me. She also showed me how to do a basic hem, and to applique with a zig-zag stitch. She even showed me how to do a basic gather - on a tea towel. So now, I can make ruffles!!! Get ready for a lot of ruffles my friends. The possibilities are endless!!! I finally finished the t-shirt tie applique for Jonas. This has been pinned and ready to go for a millenium, but it only took about 10 minutes once the machine was working! My tea towel is also super-cute, and I'm gearing up to make a ruffle-butt onsie for Marin. I see many ruffled and appliqued Christmas gifts in everyone's futures.
So now, without further adieu, here is my "big" little guy in his (semi)serious work shirt! ;) ha!
Here's to endless good weeks like this to come! (I hope)!
-Mandy
Clint has been out of town for the week for work. Now before everyone starts to feel too sorry for him, let me tell you where he had to go on business. For all of the LOST fans out there, during tonight's episode he said, "I was just there!". In other words, Oahu, Hawaii. He did not have a vacation there though. Rest assured he worked VERY hard. Anyway, yesterday he came home! Woo-hoo!
We've had Nana staying with us for the entire week - which was AMAZING! She is just incredible. She never rests & is such sweet company. She really helped this week breeze by. I wasn't stressed, as I had prepared to be in Clint's absence. Actually, Nana helped it become a productive week, rather than just a week of meager survival. She organized things for us & cleaned seveaal things that had been neglected for a while. Namely, my fridge, stove, kitchen sink & washer & dryer. She also allowed me a few excursions out of the house without the kids in tow. We even managed a trip out of town, along Route 66 - all the way to Quartz Mountain Lodge & Altus, OK. We stayed in the lodge there overnight and Nana visited her aunt in Altus - then we headed back home, stopping briefly in Shawnee to meet up with Sarah & our cousin, Julie, for dinner - then in Seminole to see Julie's beautiful home - then back to our own home sweet home.
Before leaving today, Nana managed to help me tie up several loose ends literally & figuratively. She also did her magic on a few hundred stains in Jonas' infant- 3T clothing. She removed stains from 90% of the garments, ironed them and hung them according to size for me to label for a "Just Between Friends" Spring consignment sale. We had a freak blizzard the day of drop off, so I got to drive about 75 items in the snow and ice to the State Fairgrounds on Saturday evening. I arrived just in the nick of time and hope my items can bring in some $$, as I've already spent some back on the sale!
Jonas had his first day of pre-school today. He is attending Pathways Preschool in Edmond. Things seemed to go very well today, and we got to hear several stories about digging in mud, play laundry machines that needed to be fixed, slides and houses. He ate a box lunch, packed by yours truly, and said goodbye this morning as if he'd been going to the school for ages. He really fit in and handled himself like a champ! I am so proud of my BIG boy! He's not even 3 yet, and they were more nervous than I was about how he would manage, but I knew with his intelligence, sociability and advanced language skills, he would thrive. I was right. He came home and took a nap after class without a fight too - which was a welcome surprise! His new school is twice a week from 9am-3pm. I'm excited to see what new things he learns and it's going to allow me some time complete some things on my "to do" list as well.
The fun doesn't stop there! Marin had her two-month check up today with Dr. Maschino. They were amazed at how much she had grown since her two week appointment. We got some great measurements then it was time for some shots. She had 3 shots and one oral vaccination today, and it was so sad to see her cry. ;( She also bled more than I expected, and I'm curious whether she also might have VonWillibrand's like her brother. She didn't cry for long though, and hasn't had any adverse reactions so far to the shots. I did give her Tylenol at the doctor's office & I think that helped her some. She was 12lbs.15oz, before a feeding, putting her in the 90-97% for weight. She measured 23.25in, putting her in the 75-90% for height and her head circumference was 40cm, putting her in the 90th% for head circumference. So, although she's a little round, she's a perfectly proportional baby! ;) She's still got a lot of gorgeous nearly black hair and deep blue eyes. Her skin is beautiful, and she's getting beautuful thick long eyelashes. She still has a light heart-shaped birthmark on her upper lip - which perfectly complements her little cupd's bow lips. She's so pretty, I could stare at her for days on end! Then again, I'm a little biased about both of my precious & beautiful kiddos. What Mom isn't?
She has a touch of cradle cap, which our doctor told us we could clear up with about a dime sized amount of Selson Blue or other dandruff wash & her baby brush. She also has a nodule just above the top of her neck on her lower head on one side. After feeling it, the doctor told us she thought it was just a little growth of the bone, and that she was not concerned as it did not move and gave no indication of being a cyst or anything of that nature. She also has a small grayish spot on her right wrist, on the arm just before her hand. The doctor examined it closely and said she wasn't concerned about the looks of that either. She's had both of these things since birth, so it made me feel better to have them examined.
Marin has also been sitting up in her Bumbo seat this week for several short periods of time. Her neck support is outstanding and she's very strong in general. Today at the doctor's office, the doctor exclaimed as Marin pushed back against her hand, then when rolled onto her stomach, Marin supported herself with her head lifted up and both arms down. I was proud. I guess her "tummy" time is paying off. She is also cooing and gooing a lot lately. If you have a quiet moment with her and talk directly with her, she will not disappoint. She loves these quiet conversations.
Some other even better news...Marin slept through the night for the first time last night! Yes, she did - but I did not. I kept waking up hearing her squirm around. Then I'd patiently watch as she fell back asleep - thankful & amazed - but a little sore! ;) She went to bed around 11:30pm and woke up at 7:00am! She actually slept a lot the day leading up to that, so I was surprised, but excited that we're heading in the direction of more regular sleeping patterns! Woo-hoo! Becky came up last week & I was able to give her about 6 bags of 40oz of milk & was really excited to contribute! I think I'm going to be pumping less soon, and am also okay with that development. ;)
Lastly, before leaving, Nana took a look at my sewing machine. She and I did some trouble shooting and figured out the problem with my machine's tension and bobbin. The thread was getting stuck on a plastic piece under the bobbin box. After some tweaking - my machine is backup and running!!! I can not even begin to express how much this thrills me. She also showed me how to do a basic hem, and to applique with a zig-zag stitch. She even showed me how to do a basic gather - on a tea towel. So now, I can make ruffles!!! Get ready for a lot of ruffles my friends. The possibilities are endless!!! I finally finished the t-shirt tie applique for Jonas. This has been pinned and ready to go for a millenium, but it only took about 10 minutes once the machine was working! My tea towel is also super-cute, and I'm gearing up to make a ruffle-butt onsie for Marin. I see many ruffled and appliqued Christmas gifts in everyone's futures.
So now, without further adieu, here is my "big" little guy in his (semi)serious work shirt! ;) ha!
Here's to endless good weeks like this to come! (I hope)!
-Mandy
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