That's pretty much all I can say about this:
http://www.khon2.com/news/health/17039491.html
Well, that's not all I could say but it's definitely the first word that came to my mind. Supposedly he is going to be on Oprah on Thursday. I can't believe some of the things that are going on in our world and this tops the list.
Monday, March 31
new schedule
Nights with Lily have been going great since we started the new schedule and cry it out. I give her a bath, put on her pj's, she has her bottle, and then I put her down in her crib awake. If she does fuss it's only for a minute or two before she's asleep. Then I feed her and change her at 11. The second night she woke up at 5:30 crying/fussing for a bit but that was later than the previous night. And then this morning she didn't wake until 7 when she normally gets up. Yeah!! So I feel like we have the night thing more under control now.
Naps are still a different story. If she's tired, then she goes to sleep fine on her own. I just have not been good about being on a schedule with her and trying more to follow whatever she wants. From everything I have read and everyone I have talked to, I need to (as the parent) guide her into a sleep schedule. It's hard to tell sometimes when she needs to nap too. She really needs to be taking 3 naps a day at this point. So I have decided to do naps at 9, 1, and 5. The 9 and 1 one need to be at least an hour long and the 5PM one can be however long she sleeps (usually a half hour). The evening one is usually the one they drop first since it's shorter. So this week might be interesting trying to force her to sleep only at those times. But I think it will work well once we get her accustomed to it. She's just gotten use to napping at odd different times for different amounts so it's going to take some work.
Lily has gotten VERY interested in her legs/feet. She is always wanting to touch them, play with them, eat them. :) It's SO cute though. Even when I have her sitting up supported, she wants to lean over and go right for them!
When we went out to the store again yesterday, I used the bjorn for Lily. I can't believe how well that things works and how much she likes it. The only thing is, it gets to your back after a little while. It also takes some getting use to cause it feels funny carrying a baby on the front of you. Now that we are trying to have her sleep only at certain times and in her crib, this can work better since I know she won't/shouldn't need to sleep while we're out. I love how so many people stop and say how cute she is, etc. It makes me proud! Matt and I made that little cutie!!
Naps are still a different story. If she's tired, then she goes to sleep fine on her own. I just have not been good about being on a schedule with her and trying more to follow whatever she wants. From everything I have read and everyone I have talked to, I need to (as the parent) guide her into a sleep schedule. It's hard to tell sometimes when she needs to nap too. She really needs to be taking 3 naps a day at this point. So I have decided to do naps at 9, 1, and 5. The 9 and 1 one need to be at least an hour long and the 5PM one can be however long she sleeps (usually a half hour). The evening one is usually the one they drop first since it's shorter. So this week might be interesting trying to force her to sleep only at those times. But I think it will work well once we get her accustomed to it. She's just gotten use to napping at odd different times for different amounts so it's going to take some work.
Lily has gotten VERY interested in her legs/feet. She is always wanting to touch them, play with them, eat them. :) It's SO cute though. Even when I have her sitting up supported, she wants to lean over and go right for them!
When we went out to the store again yesterday, I used the bjorn for Lily. I can't believe how well that things works and how much she likes it. The only thing is, it gets to your back after a little while. It also takes some getting use to cause it feels funny carrying a baby on the front of you. Now that we are trying to have her sleep only at certain times and in her crib, this can work better since I know she won't/shouldn't need to sleep while we're out. I love how so many people stop and say how cute she is, etc. It makes me proud! Matt and I made that little cutie!!
Saturday, March 29
CIO Day 1 Update
For those of you who thought I would chicken out and not do CIO last night (myself included!), you were wrong! Yeah for me!!! I almost didn't do it because around dinner time, my hubby starts talking about how he didn't want our beautiful little baby girl to have to cry her head off. But luckily he came around and we did it.
So now for the results of day one... it was A LOT better than I thought it would be. I was expecting it to be a long and very loud night. I fed her yesterday evening and made sure she was awake, which she was but decided to leave her with her pacifier. If it fell out, then I wouldn't give it back to her. I laid her down and she was looking around but peaceful, said goodnight, and then left the room. After a few minutes, not a peep from her! I kept waiting for the blow to be lowered... but nothing! I went back in to check on her after 30 minutes and she was fast to sleep. I couldn't believe it! I woke her at 11 to feed her and she stayed konked out the whole time that was going on so no problem then either.
Well, at 3:30 (the time she has been always waking up to eat) I heard her start crying. She obviously was not hungry this time since we had fed her a full bottle at 11, so really she has programmed herself to wake and eat at this time. I went in after 5 minutes said "you're okay", patted her, and then left. Then the wailing set in. Went in again after 10 more minutes and did the same thing. At 25 minutes she was back to sleep! Yeah!!! Not too bad. Well, she woke up again around 5:00AM and I did the same thing. I actually changed her diaper at that time cause she was soaking wet but I didn't pick her up, just left her in the crib. She cried 30 minutes after that and then was back to sleep. Then she woke up at 7:00AM. So not a bad night considering!
So you may ask, well how did today go? Why let me tell you. :) Great! She took a 1.5 hour nap this morning, a 1.5 hour nap this afternoon, and a 30 minute nap this early evening. At all 3 naps she cried less than 5 minutes and didn't have the pacifier at all, just her blankie. Yeah!!!! Part of the problem I think was also my fault. I think I have been trying to get her to go down for naps sooner than she needed to. I took any fussing as a sign she was tired. But I think that's not the case, sometimes she just needs a change of pace from what she is doing while awake or just needs to sit back and relax. Guess we'll see if this nap schedule keeps up or not.
Tonight I'm planning on not giving her the paci when she goes to bed. I want to completely cut that out for going to sleep. I just have her use it if she's fussy or I let her suck on it some while she calms down in my arms before naptime.
Guess we'll see how tonight goes! But so far, so good. This is SO much better than having to rock her and put all the effort we were having to to get her to go to sleep!! And so much more healthier for her. Thanks for all the prayers sent my way! Keep praying that she does well with it!
One more thing, since I had her on a better nap schedule and she was awake for longer increments, we decided to go grocery shopping this afternoon and I put her facing forward in the bjorn. She LOVED it! I knew she was going to be awake for awhile and not fussy. And she LOVES looking around at things. It worked out great!
Yeah! for a great day so far! Now I am off to eat a delicious dinner that Matt has cooked, put Lily to bed for the night and then watch Transformers!
So now for the results of day one... it was A LOT better than I thought it would be. I was expecting it to be a long and very loud night. I fed her yesterday evening and made sure she was awake, which she was but decided to leave her with her pacifier. If it fell out, then I wouldn't give it back to her. I laid her down and she was looking around but peaceful, said goodnight, and then left the room. After a few minutes, not a peep from her! I kept waiting for the blow to be lowered... but nothing! I went back in to check on her after 30 minutes and she was fast to sleep. I couldn't believe it! I woke her at 11 to feed her and she stayed konked out the whole time that was going on so no problem then either.
Well, at 3:30 (the time she has been always waking up to eat) I heard her start crying. She obviously was not hungry this time since we had fed her a full bottle at 11, so really she has programmed herself to wake and eat at this time. I went in after 5 minutes said "you're okay", patted her, and then left. Then the wailing set in. Went in again after 10 more minutes and did the same thing. At 25 minutes she was back to sleep! Yeah!!! Not too bad. Well, she woke up again around 5:00AM and I did the same thing. I actually changed her diaper at that time cause she was soaking wet but I didn't pick her up, just left her in the crib. She cried 30 minutes after that and then was back to sleep. Then she woke up at 7:00AM. So not a bad night considering!
So you may ask, well how did today go? Why let me tell you. :) Great! She took a 1.5 hour nap this morning, a 1.5 hour nap this afternoon, and a 30 minute nap this early evening. At all 3 naps she cried less than 5 minutes and didn't have the pacifier at all, just her blankie. Yeah!!!! Part of the problem I think was also my fault. I think I have been trying to get her to go down for naps sooner than she needed to. I took any fussing as a sign she was tired. But I think that's not the case, sometimes she just needs a change of pace from what she is doing while awake or just needs to sit back and relax. Guess we'll see if this nap schedule keeps up or not.
Tonight I'm planning on not giving her the paci when she goes to bed. I want to completely cut that out for going to sleep. I just have her use it if she's fussy or I let her suck on it some while she calms down in my arms before naptime.
Guess we'll see how tonight goes! But so far, so good. This is SO much better than having to rock her and put all the effort we were having to to get her to go to sleep!! And so much more healthier for her. Thanks for all the prayers sent my way! Keep praying that she does well with it!
One more thing, since I had her on a better nap schedule and she was awake for longer increments, we decided to go grocery shopping this afternoon and I put her facing forward in the bjorn. She LOVED it! I knew she was going to be awake for awhile and not fussy. And she LOVES looking around at things. It worked out great!
Yeah! for a great day so far! Now I am off to eat a delicious dinner that Matt has cooked, put Lily to bed for the night and then watch Transformers!
Thursday, March 27
thinking about tomorrow...
So I think tomorrow is the day to start cry it out with Lily. I've been ready to do it for awhile since I haven't gotten much sleep at night and we have to rock her all the way to sleep, a lot of times fighting it badly. But the closer it gets to actualization, the more nervous and sad I get. I keep telling myself, you CAN'T back out of this. I did that with moving her to the crib from our room. I kept saying we were going to do it and then putting it off. I think mostly because it was viewed as a next step in her life.
This is the same with the cry it out. It's like a realization that she is growing up and not the little baby I use to rock 4 months ago. So in part, I am saying goodbye to a stage in her life. The time flies by so quickly. Where has my 6 pounds, 4 ounce little girl gone? She's here - she's just a happy 14 pounds 13 ounces baby girl now who's in to everything!
I was thinking today also about the fact that even though it's going to be VERY VERY hard listening to my baby cry, it's something that I (as a parent) must do for her. There are going to be lots of things in her life over the next 18 years that I will have to do that are in her eyes bad/sad/not so fun, but for her sake in the long run I must do them. They will make her into a healthy, strong, smart, beautiful woman someday. That is the goal of a parent. Not to keep them a baby under your wing, but to grow her into a young woman who is able to be on her own. As much as I'm sure every single parent wants to just keep their children sheltered and with them, it's not what God has called us to do. Yes, it SUCKS. It sucks big time. And you don't know the feeling until you become a parent yourself.
Some of you maybe be thinking, man - she's ALREADY thinking about this and her daughter is only 4 months old. Yes, I am. And I think that it is good. Because I constantly need to be thinking of the end goal, so I can be the BEST parent possible in the now for her.
So if you're out there reading this, send out some prayers my way tomorrow night as I'm sure it's going to be a rough one. I love this little girl more than she will know until she's a parent herself. And tomorrow I am going to love her in the fact that I will teach her how to sleep on her own.
This is the same with the cry it out. It's like a realization that she is growing up and not the little baby I use to rock 4 months ago. So in part, I am saying goodbye to a stage in her life. The time flies by so quickly. Where has my 6 pounds, 4 ounce little girl gone? She's here - she's just a happy 14 pounds 13 ounces baby girl now who's in to everything!
I was thinking today also about the fact that even though it's going to be VERY VERY hard listening to my baby cry, it's something that I (as a parent) must do for her. There are going to be lots of things in her life over the next 18 years that I will have to do that are in her eyes bad/sad/not so fun, but for her sake in the long run I must do them. They will make her into a healthy, strong, smart, beautiful woman someday. That is the goal of a parent. Not to keep them a baby under your wing, but to grow her into a young woman who is able to be on her own. As much as I'm sure every single parent wants to just keep their children sheltered and with them, it's not what God has called us to do. Yes, it SUCKS. It sucks big time. And you don't know the feeling until you become a parent yourself.
Some of you maybe be thinking, man - she's ALREADY thinking about this and her daughter is only 4 months old. Yes, I am. And I think that it is good. Because I constantly need to be thinking of the end goal, so I can be the BEST parent possible in the now for her.
So if you're out there reading this, send out some prayers my way tomorrow night as I'm sure it's going to be a rough one. I love this little girl more than she will know until she's a parent herself. And tomorrow I am going to love her in the fact that I will teach her how to sleep on her own.
an outing and swim diapers
Today Lily and I went out with Alicia and Andi. Alicia just bought an suv so we decided to take a trip out in it together. Definitely made me want a bigger car - or more like an SUV or minivan! Both girls fit in the back with the car seats with room to spare! They were so cute back there hanging out. Lily was actually the non fussy one in the car - a change since Andi is so chill and quiet! We went to a few stores and had lunch outside together. It was SO beautiful outside! I'm ready for the spring weather to be consistent and then summertime!!
And speaking of summertime, I had been looking at swim diapers in the store which you have to use in pools. They are expensive and if we go often (which I'm planning on doing), the costs can add up easily. I saw yesterday a post on a mom forum that I'm a member of discussing this subject. Their was a link to a place that sells NON-disposable swim diapers. Sweet! You just pop them in the washing machine and don't have to keep buying new ones all the time! The store is called Bambino Mountain.
And speaking of summertime, I had been looking at swim diapers in the store which you have to use in pools. They are expensive and if we go often (which I'm planning on doing), the costs can add up easily. I saw yesterday a post on a mom forum that I'm a member of discussing this subject. Their was a link to a place that sells NON-disposable swim diapers. Sweet! You just pop them in the washing machine and don't have to keep buying new ones all the time! The store is called Bambino Mountain.
Wednesday, March 26
Lily's 4 month check up
Today was Lily's 4 month check up and shots. She is growing like a weed! She now weighs 14 pounds, 13 ounces (75th percentile). Her height is 24.25 inches (50th percentile). And her head is 16.75 (75-90th percentile).
In regards to nighttime feedings, she said that Lily should be able to go at least 8 hours with no food, no question. So she is waking up now in the middle of the night just because that is what she has gotten use to. So we have some retraining to do. Dr. Gagen recommended that we wake her around 11:00 before we go to bed to feed her so she will last until morning. If she does wake, we know then we don't need to feed her. Then we can gradually work backwards from the 11:00 feed time until we are able to eliminate it.
She also said that starting some rice cereal (solids) might also help her at night since she would hopefully be getting more caloric intake during the day. We are supposed to use a bowl and spoon though - NOT in the bottle. She said that it's best to not confuse solids and liquids. So technically we could wait until 6 months to start but Dr. Gagen recommended we start sooner with Lily. So I guess we'll be doing that sometime in the next couple of weeks as well. By 6 months she would like to see her on a 3 meal a day schedule (breakfast lunch and dinner) and then an extra feeding if she needs it.
In regards to sleep schedule - naps, bedtime, etc. We definitely need to start putting her down awake in her crib now before both naps and bedtime. She said that she IS going to cry since she's use to being rocked, etc. to go to sleep. We obviously knew that. She said that most people have success with this in just 3-4 days. So we'll just have to go through that agony for only a few days hopefully. In regards to the pacifier, she said that's completely up to us. If we don't want that hassle and have to get up numerous times in the night to give it to her, then we can go ahead and cut that out too. Naptime - most of you know what a finnicky napper she is. The dr. said that is really up to us. As long as she is getting the sleep she needs during the day then she is fine. If we want to try to work towards longer consolidated naps, then we can just leave her be if she wakes up after the half hour nap and try to get her to go back to sleep. I think we're just going to concentrate on the nighttime thing first before I work on daytime naps.
Her taggie blanket is fine for her to use as a comfort object at naps and nighttime. She said either a blanket or a stuffed toy is fine for her now at her age. Developmentally she is doing great - ahead of where she needs to be. The lumps under her nipples are fine - just glands. The sore she has behind her ear (we noticed this a day or two ago), is just cradle cap. Dr. Gagen said that cradle cap likes to grow behind the ears especially. We can use hydrocortisone cream for that.
She did okay with her shots. I gave her tylenol before we went and of course she screamed when they did it but she calmed down very quickly. Then was fast to sleep!
I think that's about it. Her next check is 6 months. Be praying that the cry it out thing goes well for us! We'll probably start that in the next few days after she has gotten over having her shots.
In regards to nighttime feedings, she said that Lily should be able to go at least 8 hours with no food, no question. So she is waking up now in the middle of the night just because that is what she has gotten use to. So we have some retraining to do. Dr. Gagen recommended that we wake her around 11:00 before we go to bed to feed her so she will last until morning. If she does wake, we know then we don't need to feed her. Then we can gradually work backwards from the 11:00 feed time until we are able to eliminate it.
She also said that starting some rice cereal (solids) might also help her at night since she would hopefully be getting more caloric intake during the day. We are supposed to use a bowl and spoon though - NOT in the bottle. She said that it's best to not confuse solids and liquids. So technically we could wait until 6 months to start but Dr. Gagen recommended we start sooner with Lily. So I guess we'll be doing that sometime in the next couple of weeks as well. By 6 months she would like to see her on a 3 meal a day schedule (breakfast lunch and dinner) and then an extra feeding if she needs it.
In regards to sleep schedule - naps, bedtime, etc. We definitely need to start putting her down awake in her crib now before both naps and bedtime. She said that she IS going to cry since she's use to being rocked, etc. to go to sleep. We obviously knew that. She said that most people have success with this in just 3-4 days. So we'll just have to go through that agony for only a few days hopefully. In regards to the pacifier, she said that's completely up to us. If we don't want that hassle and have to get up numerous times in the night to give it to her, then we can go ahead and cut that out too. Naptime - most of you know what a finnicky napper she is. The dr. said that is really up to us. As long as she is getting the sleep she needs during the day then she is fine. If we want to try to work towards longer consolidated naps, then we can just leave her be if she wakes up after the half hour nap and try to get her to go back to sleep. I think we're just going to concentrate on the nighttime thing first before I work on daytime naps.
Her taggie blanket is fine for her to use as a comfort object at naps and nighttime. She said either a blanket or a stuffed toy is fine for her now at her age. Developmentally she is doing great - ahead of where she needs to be. The lumps under her nipples are fine - just glands. The sore she has behind her ear (we noticed this a day or two ago), is just cradle cap. Dr. Gagen said that cradle cap likes to grow behind the ears especially. We can use hydrocortisone cream for that.
She did okay with her shots. I gave her tylenol before we went and of course she screamed when they did it but she calmed down very quickly. Then was fast to sleep!
I think that's about it. Her next check is 6 months. Be praying that the cry it out thing goes well for us! We'll probably start that in the next few days after she has gotten over having her shots.
Monday, March 24
Happy Birthday wishes!
Today is my hubby's 25th birthday! It is weird to think that I have known him for 10 of those, almost half of his life! In celebration of Matt, I would like to list my top 10 things I love most about him. Of course, there are a million reasons why, but I will try to limit myself to 10. :)
1) His laugh. I absolutely LOVE the way he laughs. It always cracks me up when he busts out laughing at something.
2) His sense of humor. Matt is one of the funniest people I know. He is not intentionally funny, if you know what I mean (like he doesn't tell "jokes"). It's just his personality in general.
3) His passion. When Matt loves something whether it be his wife or a brilliant idea, he is the best advocate for it. The things he holds dear to his heart have most importance.
4) His fathering abilities. Since we had Lily, I have seen a completely new and wonderful side to my husband. I can see the love he has for her and he does SUCH a great job in helping to raise her - whether that's just a diaper change or helping her learn something new (like rolling over). I'm so glad that my children will have a father like him to emulate.
5) His ability/desire to communicate. Many marriages fail because there is a lack of or bad communication between the husband and wife. Matt has always been one to want to talk things out with me and compromise. He won't just shove things under the carpet. Even in everyday life, he loves to talk to me and share his thoughts/ideas. I love that he loves to share his life with me.
6) His body. Okay for those of you out there thinking "dirty." That's NOT what I'm referring to. :) I love cuddling up to him. He is just the right build for me! I'm a happy wife just being able to snuggle with him after we put Lily to bed and watch tv together.
7) The way he puts his family first. Matt, from day one of our marriage, has always prioritized me (and now Lily). He believes that his family should come first (besides God of course). He always sticks up for us and wants to make sure that we are taken care of.
8) His delicious cooking. Matt is a WONDERFUL cook! I admit that I do lack in that area even though I can follow a recipe or of course make a boxed or frozen dinner. He is amazing though. He just comes up with recipes himself (like his famous hawaiian chicken tacos) that are delicious!
9) His love for Christ. This really should be number one. This is the most important quality in my husband. Matt, above all, wants to know God more. He is always striving to make sure He is serving God in the best way that He possibly can.
10) His love for me. Matt loves me like no one else can love me. He makes me feel secure and happy. He knows what makes me tick. He puts up with my weird quirks. He always tries to meet my needs the best he can.
11) His hugs. Okay.... I thought of this one and I just had to add one more. His hugs are the best in the world. They are big bear hugs and they always make me feel so much better!
So if you hadn't guessed, I love this man a WHOLE lot! Happy Happy Happy Birthday to the most wonderful man, husband, and father in the world!!!
1) His laugh. I absolutely LOVE the way he laughs. It always cracks me up when he busts out laughing at something.
2) His sense of humor. Matt is one of the funniest people I know. He is not intentionally funny, if you know what I mean (like he doesn't tell "jokes"). It's just his personality in general.
3) His passion. When Matt loves something whether it be his wife or a brilliant idea, he is the best advocate for it. The things he holds dear to his heart have most importance.
4) His fathering abilities. Since we had Lily, I have seen a completely new and wonderful side to my husband. I can see the love he has for her and he does SUCH a great job in helping to raise her - whether that's just a diaper change or helping her learn something new (like rolling over). I'm so glad that my children will have a father like him to emulate.
5) His ability/desire to communicate. Many marriages fail because there is a lack of or bad communication between the husband and wife. Matt has always been one to want to talk things out with me and compromise. He won't just shove things under the carpet. Even in everyday life, he loves to talk to me and share his thoughts/ideas. I love that he loves to share his life with me.
6) His body. Okay for those of you out there thinking "dirty." That's NOT what I'm referring to. :) I love cuddling up to him. He is just the right build for me! I'm a happy wife just being able to snuggle with him after we put Lily to bed and watch tv together.
7) The way he puts his family first. Matt, from day one of our marriage, has always prioritized me (and now Lily). He believes that his family should come first (besides God of course). He always sticks up for us and wants to make sure that we are taken care of.
8) His delicious cooking. Matt is a WONDERFUL cook! I admit that I do lack in that area even though I can follow a recipe or of course make a boxed or frozen dinner. He is amazing though. He just comes up with recipes himself (like his famous hawaiian chicken tacos) that are delicious!
9) His love for Christ. This really should be number one. This is the most important quality in my husband. Matt, above all, wants to know God more. He is always striving to make sure He is serving God in the best way that He possibly can.
10) His love for me. Matt loves me like no one else can love me. He makes me feel secure and happy. He knows what makes me tick. He puts up with my weird quirks. He always tries to meet my needs the best he can.
11) His hugs. Okay.... I thought of this one and I just had to add one more. His hugs are the best in the world. They are big bear hugs and they always make me feel so much better!
So if you hadn't guessed, I love this man a WHOLE lot! Happy Happy Happy Birthday to the most wonderful man, husband, and father in the world!!!
Sunday, March 23
Lily with her parents and both sets of grandparents:
Happy Easter!!
It's Easter Sunday!!! A lot has gone on in the past few days here in my world. Friday we drove to Virginia Beach for a long weekend with family. Saturday was BEAUTIFUL weather so we took Lily out for a walk which she loves and then I got to do some shopping while my mom watched Lily. Matt got to go to a movie and lunch with his dad and brother - got in some male bonding time. Then Saturday evening we had dinner with my dad's side of the family who drove in from Maryland for Lily's dedication. I always have such a good time with them and really enjoy when we are all able to get together! My 2nd cousin, Rachael, is a hoot!! She LOVES babies so she loved little Lily and was just in awe of her. It was so cute! Unlike my niece Ava who doesn't like her very much because she can't "play" yet and cries.
Today was a big day. It was, of course, Easter service at church and Lily's dedication. As I figured, Lily was due for a nap right when we were to go up front so she's screaming her little head off in front of the church. :) Oh well! She was SO adorable in her little white dress. My "older" and "newer" best friends (as Matt calls them), also known as Sarah and Tara, were both able to be there which was SO great! After the service, our moms had organized a luncheon for some of our close friends and family. It was a great time and besides Lily wailing her head off in front of the church, she did great! We're also going to have her dedicated at our church in Lynchburg in a few weeks (april 13th).
In other news, the pastor at our old church that our parents go to (Suburban) told the church he was going to retire in June. He's been at the church for over 30 years I believe so this is a big thing. The church has been going through some turmoil so it was a wise decision (I believe) on his part to let someone new come in and hopefully get a fresh start for the church. He will be missed though. The *assumption* that I think a lot of people have is that the current youth pastor there, Todd Haynes, will take over the pastorate position. I think that would be ideal. He's a great preacher and would probably be able to do really good things for the church. If that does end up happening, I think Matt will apply for the youth pastor position there. It's really been his dream ever since he was a teenager to be the youth pastor there. He also really enjoys Todd and I think would be able to learn a lot from him. Anyways, there's some things that I'm not so sure about with that idea but it's Matt's dream and I would never deny him of that. Anyways - that's a long ways from happening and Todd might not even take the pastoral position, but we'll see.
Needless to say, it's been a busy weekend. Tomorrow is Matt's birthday! He'll be celebrating his quarter of a century (25). We'll be going to dinner with Matt's family for that.
Happy Easter everyone! I'm so thankful for what this day means to me and hopefully what it means to you too! Jesus is ALIVE and RISEN!!
P.S. - I am trying to post pics from today but apparently blogger won't let me upload pictures at the moment. So more to come later!
Today was a big day. It was, of course, Easter service at church and Lily's dedication. As I figured, Lily was due for a nap right when we were to go up front so she's screaming her little head off in front of the church. :) Oh well! She was SO adorable in her little white dress. My "older" and "newer" best friends (as Matt calls them), also known as Sarah and Tara, were both able to be there which was SO great! After the service, our moms had organized a luncheon for some of our close friends and family. It was a great time and besides Lily wailing her head off in front of the church, she did great! We're also going to have her dedicated at our church in Lynchburg in a few weeks (april 13th).
In other news, the pastor at our old church that our parents go to (Suburban) told the church he was going to retire in June. He's been at the church for over 30 years I believe so this is a big thing. The church has been going through some turmoil so it was a wise decision (I believe) on his part to let someone new come in and hopefully get a fresh start for the church. He will be missed though. The *assumption* that I think a lot of people have is that the current youth pastor there, Todd Haynes, will take over the pastorate position. I think that would be ideal. He's a great preacher and would probably be able to do really good things for the church. If that does end up happening, I think Matt will apply for the youth pastor position there. It's really been his dream ever since he was a teenager to be the youth pastor there. He also really enjoys Todd and I think would be able to learn a lot from him. Anyways, there's some things that I'm not so sure about with that idea but it's Matt's dream and I would never deny him of that. Anyways - that's a long ways from happening and Todd might not even take the pastoral position, but we'll see.
Needless to say, it's been a busy weekend. Tomorrow is Matt's birthday! He'll be celebrating his quarter of a century (25). We'll be going to dinner with Matt's family for that.
Happy Easter everyone! I'm so thankful for what this day means to me and hopefully what it means to you too! Jesus is ALIVE and RISEN!!
P.S. - I am trying to post pics from today but apparently blogger won't let me upload pictures at the moment. So more to come later!
Thursday, March 20
march madness
I absolutely love march madness. Do you know why? Not for the fact that I like basketball and like to watch it. I LOVE bracket competition. If you don't know what this is or have never done it, you should. I only like to compete against friends or people I know though. Last year was the first year that I did it on facebook and won in the Suburban Christian pool!!! I have a strategy too that I think should work everytime. I, of course, can't let you in on my secret though! This year at Matt's work they are doing a pool there as well for money. So Matt put in my bracket which I hope wins cause I would like to win some money! If you missed out on the madness this year, you need to do it next year!
I feel like March has been madness for us. We have been on the go with lots of events happening - birthdays (mine, matt's, ava's, and mike's). Then Dawn's baby shower. And this coming weekend Virginia Beach for easter and Lily's dedication at Suburban. I like travelling actually and going to visit family but it's just more difficult now having to pack for Lily.
In other news, we sold our car (the altima). For those of you that don't know, one of the sacrifices we are having to make for me to be able to stay at home is to get rid of our second car. I'm not sure how difficult it's going to be to make the transition but it's worth it to be able to stay at home with Lily. Most days Matt is going to be carpooling with Jonathan (his boss) who lives in the same apartment complex as us. And days he needs the car, I can just stay at home. I really don't need to have it all the time anyways.
Lily news: Two of her naps today she slept for 2 hours!! Yeah!! It's always so nice when she sleeps longer than her usual 30-45 minute naps because I feel like I can actually get some things done around the house. I can hardly believe tomorrow she will be 4 MONTHS OLD!!! In some ways it feels just like yesterday she was born and in others it feels like it's been so long that she was just 6 pounds 4 ounces! I'm so glad I have her. She's just the sweetest thing ever. :)
Off to finish packing as we are leaving in the morning...
I feel like March has been madness for us. We have been on the go with lots of events happening - birthdays (mine, matt's, ava's, and mike's). Then Dawn's baby shower. And this coming weekend Virginia Beach for easter and Lily's dedication at Suburban. I like travelling actually and going to visit family but it's just more difficult now having to pack for Lily.
In other news, we sold our car (the altima). For those of you that don't know, one of the sacrifices we are having to make for me to be able to stay at home is to get rid of our second car. I'm not sure how difficult it's going to be to make the transition but it's worth it to be able to stay at home with Lily. Most days Matt is going to be carpooling with Jonathan (his boss) who lives in the same apartment complex as us. And days he needs the car, I can just stay at home. I really don't need to have it all the time anyways.
Lily news: Two of her naps today she slept for 2 hours!! Yeah!! It's always so nice when she sleeps longer than her usual 30-45 minute naps because I feel like I can actually get some things done around the house. I can hardly believe tomorrow she will be 4 MONTHS OLD!!! In some ways it feels just like yesterday she was born and in others it feels like it's been so long that she was just 6 pounds 4 ounces! I'm so glad I have her. She's just the sweetest thing ever. :)
Off to finish packing as we are leaving in the morning...
Wednesday, March 19
twins, cry it out, and a visit from friends
I would like to begin by saying NO I AM NOT PREGNANT WITH TWINS! Just in the case that you might have thought that from the title. Little Lily is remaining an only child for the time being! Now on to the real reason for that title.... It seems like I know a lot of people right now either pregnant with or recently had twins. I know three (one of which is my sister) who are currently pregnant with twins and one that just recently had twins. Granted my sister's was through IVF but the rest were naturally - CRAZY! Even though I am sure when you have twins you love it, I just can't imagine having more than one baby at a time! I absolutely love the fact that we only have one right now (not to discourage those of you who are having twins). Anyways, hopefully when we do decide to have another this won't come back to bite me!!
In Lily news, I am definitely ready to the whole cry it out thing with her. Her afternoon naps are SO hard to get her down for and she isn't napping as long as she should be. Her night schedule is also not so hot - I'm having to get up at least 5 times a night with her to give her her paci back and she eats once a night. She technically shouldn't be having to eat then either because of her weight and age. So I think if we can do the cry it out and she's getting better solid sleep, that might cure that problem too. I think I have recently blogged about this as well, but it's the big topic on my mind right now. My good friend Alicia whose baby is just a bit older than mine read the book BabyWise and it worked wonders for her. I have also heard a lot of people rave about it. So I had asked Alicia to borrow hers. Sweet friend she is though - she bought me my own copy for my birthday! I just got the book today and I've already been reading it profusely. It seems really good so far and the concept that I really want Lily to have. I wish I had this book when we first had her because these principles work really well if you start from birth. So for all of you having babies out there soon, BUY THIS BOOK! It also has great advice for multiples so since I know a lot of you like that too, it will be a good investment.
Today we had visitors! Yeah! Alicia and Andi came over for a little while. Even though Andi is almost a month older than Lily, she looks younger cause Lily is a chub. :) It's great having a friend who has a baby right about the same age as me. I can't wait for them to get a little bit older and can play together!
My sister let me borrow her exersaucer so we wouldn't have to fork out the cash for one. Lily has been in it for the first time this week and she loves it! I think she just especially likes the fact that she's standing up in it. She just wants to be a big girl already!
Lily has a new favorite facial expression. It's SO cute. She leans her head back and puckers out her lips. I LOVE IT! Check it out below!
I will leave you today with some pics:
Tuesday, March 18
Play Along!
I stopped by my Sister's Blog and she invited blog friends to play along with this, so here goes...
What I was doing 10 years ago: 10 years ago I was 15. Wow - that seems like ages. I had just had my birthday and got my driver's permit. Man, I sure thought I was hot stuff! We had just started going to Suburban Christian Church and I met Matt, my future husband. Gosh - I've known Matt now for 10 years! And the crazy thing is we started dating not too long after that. I was in 9th grade (high school) and thought I was hot stuff! I was also helping my sister plan her wedding.
5 things on my To Do list today:
1. Call my health insurance company to get them to pay correctly on a claim from pregnancy.
2. Call the humidifier company to find out where my replacement humidifer is.
3. Go to Target to get some space saver bags and find Lily some bigger socks.
4. Make another list of things to take with us to virginia beach this weekend.
5. And of course, take care of Lily (feed, change, play, etc.). Which is always the number one thing on my list!
Snacks that I enjoy: chips and guacamole dip, apples, cheese
Things I would do if I were a billionaire: The first thing on the list would of course be to tithe and give that money to our church. I would give money to those that I love the most - our families and a few special friends (Tara, Vicky, and Sarah). Buy a beautiful dream house. Do lots of travelling - Disney World every year, Australia (Matt's motherland), Europe, Hawaii. Put away money for our children's college. Buy a souped up Honda Odyssey minivan. Well, being a billionaire the list could go on and on but this will do for now!
5 Places I've lived: Norfolk and Lynchburg, VA (only 2). Sure wish we could add a new place to that list about now!
5 jobs I've had: secretary at doctor's office, social worker at Lake Taylor, behavior specialist and CVCSB, social worker at Westminster Canterbury, and homemaker (the best one yet)
What I was doing 10 years ago: 10 years ago I was 15. Wow - that seems like ages. I had just had my birthday and got my driver's permit. Man, I sure thought I was hot stuff! We had just started going to Suburban Christian Church and I met Matt, my future husband. Gosh - I've known Matt now for 10 years! And the crazy thing is we started dating not too long after that. I was in 9th grade (high school) and thought I was hot stuff! I was also helping my sister plan her wedding.
5 things on my To Do list today:
1. Call my health insurance company to get them to pay correctly on a claim from pregnancy.
2. Call the humidifier company to find out where my replacement humidifer is.
3. Go to Target to get some space saver bags and find Lily some bigger socks.
4. Make another list of things to take with us to virginia beach this weekend.
5. And of course, take care of Lily (feed, change, play, etc.). Which is always the number one thing on my list!
Snacks that I enjoy: chips and guacamole dip, apples, cheese
Things I would do if I were a billionaire: The first thing on the list would of course be to tithe and give that money to our church. I would give money to those that I love the most - our families and a few special friends (Tara, Vicky, and Sarah). Buy a beautiful dream house. Do lots of travelling - Disney World every year, Australia (Matt's motherland), Europe, Hawaii. Put away money for our children's college. Buy a souped up Honda Odyssey minivan. Well, being a billionaire the list could go on and on but this will do for now!
5 Places I've lived: Norfolk and Lynchburg, VA (only 2). Sure wish we could add a new place to that list about now!
5 jobs I've had: secretary at doctor's office, social worker at Lake Taylor, behavior specialist and CVCSB, social worker at Westminster Canterbury, and homemaker (the best one yet)
Monday, March 17
fun day with "auntie vicky"
This morning I went in to my old work again to help train the new person that they hired for my old job. I'm getting paid for it which is nice too. Since they wanted me to stay until I finished up, I asked Lily's "auntie" vicky to come over and babysit her for a little bit when Matt had to go to work. Lily did really well and was smiling and cooing up a storm with her! Vicky and Reeba are the only two people at this point that I trust here in town to watch her. And of course, I don't really do it that much. Only twice since Lily came into this world!
After I got home, the three of us (vicky, lily, and me) went to lunch at Moe's which was so much fun except for one part... Lily was in her stroller sucking on her pacifier on her way to sleepytown. These two ladies with two children (one of which looking quite butch), came right up to Lily in her face in the stroller and said "are these ladies not feeding you?" That's really all she said and then she went and sat down. WEIRD! I don't know what prompted her to say that and only that. I wanted to punch her in her face but I think she had enough problems of her own. Anyways - it was quite opposite from the usual first responses from strangers "oh she's so cute... how old is she... her hair is so beautiful...etc."
Then we came back to the house and I put Lily down for a nap and Vicky and I got a chance just to talk for awhile. It's always so nice to spend time just talking with her.
Tomorrow is a stay at home day I believe and then Wednesday we get to have a visit from Alicia and Lily's friend Andi! Yeah!
After I got home, the three of us (vicky, lily, and me) went to lunch at Moe's which was so much fun except for one part... Lily was in her stroller sucking on her pacifier on her way to sleepytown. These two ladies with two children (one of which looking quite butch), came right up to Lily in her face in the stroller and said "are these ladies not feeding you?" That's really all she said and then she went and sat down. WEIRD! I don't know what prompted her to say that and only that. I wanted to punch her in her face but I think she had enough problems of her own. Anyways - it was quite opposite from the usual first responses from strangers "oh she's so cute... how old is she... her hair is so beautiful...etc."
Then we came back to the house and I put Lily down for a nap and Vicky and I got a chance just to talk for awhile. It's always so nice to spend time just talking with her.
Tomorrow is a stay at home day I believe and then Wednesday we get to have a visit from Alicia and Lily's friend Andi! Yeah!
Sunday, March 16
Contentment and Stinky Feet
I'm sure you're thinking.... what a strange combination for today's blog. Yes, it is. But it's the two things on my mind right now!
Contentment. An easy word to write about, talk about, spell... pretty much anything besides make it come to life. On the way back today from Dawn's house in NC, I was thinking a lot about this. Watching my little baby sleep so peacefully, I thought about how content she was at that moment and not a care in the world. All her needs are taken care of by her wonderful mom (yes, that's me!) and her dad too of course. I, on the other hand, have a very hard time with contentment. For me, sometimes I look at other people's lives and think "hey, they have everything and must be so content. Sure must be nice." But in reality, I know that even though it might seem someone has it all, they don't. NO ONE on this earth is completely content. It is one of our human flaws. I am having a hard time with being content though today. I see these gorgeous houses that people have down in yuppyville Cary. I wish I had a house. I see people that are making tons of money and can do and buy so many things. I wish I had more money. I see people who are so passionate about God and serving Him. I wish I had that much passion. I see men who are so happy with their jobs and feel completely fulfilled in what they are doing. I wish my husband had his dream job. The list could probably go on and on.
But then, I have to stop myself and say "AMANDA! You are so blessed. You have the most wonderful family anyone could ask for - a loving caring husband and a beautiful sweet healthy baby girl. You have a roof over your head, a car to drive, clothes on your back, food in your kitchen, cable tv, internet, a cell phone, my health, a comfy bed to sleep in, a God who loves me, extended family who love me, the most wonderful best friends." Well, that list could probably go on and on as well. I am SO blessed in reality. There are so many people in this world who don't have nearly what I have even though I don't really see that as much.
It's just a hard concept. And I want to be content, but sometimes I just don't know how to fully reach that level. And I guess I never will since I'm human. But for now, I am going to thank God tonight for the blessings in my life. If you're reading this, my challenge for you tonight is to thank God for at least 5 things in your life.
On a short other subject, my beautiful little baby Lily has stinky feet. Yes, even babies can have stinky feet. :) Don't ask me how but they always seem to get clammy and then when we take her socks off they smell. Haha! I love it though. Yes, you heard me. I LOVE LILY'S STINKY FEET. And you know why? Because that's just one more thing that makes her my Lily.
Contentment. An easy word to write about, talk about, spell... pretty much anything besides make it come to life. On the way back today from Dawn's house in NC, I was thinking a lot about this. Watching my little baby sleep so peacefully, I thought about how content she was at that moment and not a care in the world. All her needs are taken care of by her wonderful mom (yes, that's me!) and her dad too of course. I, on the other hand, have a very hard time with contentment. For me, sometimes I look at other people's lives and think "hey, they have everything and must be so content. Sure must be nice." But in reality, I know that even though it might seem someone has it all, they don't. NO ONE on this earth is completely content. It is one of our human flaws. I am having a hard time with being content though today. I see these gorgeous houses that people have down in yuppyville Cary. I wish I had a house. I see people that are making tons of money and can do and buy so many things. I wish I had more money. I see people who are so passionate about God and serving Him. I wish I had that much passion. I see men who are so happy with their jobs and feel completely fulfilled in what they are doing. I wish my husband had his dream job. The list could probably go on and on.
But then, I have to stop myself and say "AMANDA! You are so blessed. You have the most wonderful family anyone could ask for - a loving caring husband and a beautiful sweet healthy baby girl. You have a roof over your head, a car to drive, clothes on your back, food in your kitchen, cable tv, internet, a cell phone, my health, a comfy bed to sleep in, a God who loves me, extended family who love me, the most wonderful best friends." Well, that list could probably go on and on as well. I am SO blessed in reality. There are so many people in this world who don't have nearly what I have even though I don't really see that as much.
It's just a hard concept. And I want to be content, but sometimes I just don't know how to fully reach that level. And I guess I never will since I'm human. But for now, I am going to thank God tonight for the blessings in my life. If you're reading this, my challenge for you tonight is to thank God for at least 5 things in your life.
On a short other subject, my beautiful little baby Lily has stinky feet. Yes, even babies can have stinky feet. :) Don't ask me how but they always seem to get clammy and then when we take her socks off they smell. Haha! I love it though. Yes, you heard me. I LOVE LILY'S STINKY FEET. And you know why? Because that's just one more thing that makes her my Lily.
Saturday, March 15
North Carolina and a lack of sleep
We're down in good ol' NC right now enjoying the company of my sister, her husband, and my niece Ava. It's been a crazy few days.
Today we had my sister's baby shower for her twins. It was a good time - just a few people which was actually really enjoyable. Dawn got some good stuff including both of the car seats that she will need but definitely needs a lot more with twins.
Yesterday Ava was being hilarious and silly like she always is. We were talking about how big my sister's boobs are getting now especially since she's pregnant. So then Ava turns around and says "mommy's boobies look good covered in sauce." I about peed my pants - it was hilarious! She is just so much fun, I love her to death.
Lily is doing good, almost 4 months now! I can hardly believe it. She, unfortunately, is starting to have some sleep issues at night. She only eats once at night which is good. But she has started waking up NUMEROUS (5+) times during the night needing her pacifier to get back to sleep. AHHHH!! So I'm not sure how we are going to fix this problem. Well, I do know - we're going to have to do cry it out. Luckily she goes for her 4 month check next week so I can talk about all of this with her doctor to get some suggestions. So pray I start getting some more sleep. Matt was wonderful last night. I was about to my breaking point. He took a shift for half of the night and getting up with her so I could get some sleep.
I'm of to enjoy a little more time with my sister before heading to bed - to hopefully get some sleep! I'll post pics of the shower once I get them up on the computer.
Today we had my sister's baby shower for her twins. It was a good time - just a few people which was actually really enjoyable. Dawn got some good stuff including both of the car seats that she will need but definitely needs a lot more with twins.
Yesterday Ava was being hilarious and silly like she always is. We were talking about how big my sister's boobs are getting now especially since she's pregnant. So then Ava turns around and says "mommy's boobies look good covered in sauce." I about peed my pants - it was hilarious! She is just so much fun, I love her to death.
Lily is doing good, almost 4 months now! I can hardly believe it. She, unfortunately, is starting to have some sleep issues at night. She only eats once at night which is good. But she has started waking up NUMEROUS (5+) times during the night needing her pacifier to get back to sleep. AHHHH!! So I'm not sure how we are going to fix this problem. Well, I do know - we're going to have to do cry it out. Luckily she goes for her 4 month check next week so I can talk about all of this with her doctor to get some suggestions. So pray I start getting some more sleep. Matt was wonderful last night. I was about to my breaking point. He took a shift for half of the night and getting up with her so I could get some sleep.
I'm of to enjoy a little more time with my sister before heading to bed - to hopefully get some sleep! I'll post pics of the shower once I get them up on the computer.
Thursday, March 13
thursday news
I'm feeling MUCH better now from being sick! The parents left yesterday morning. It has been great getting back to our norm and quietness since we've had so much going on the past week or two. We're going to be on the go though again this weekend. We're leaving tomorrow to go to my sister's for the weekend. We're having a baby shower for her with some of her friends on Saturday. Her friend Kelly has been helping me out which has been GREAT! So I'm looking forward to a fun weekend with them. I always LOVE going down there to visit and of course seeing funny little Ava!
Yesterday it was nice weather so I was able to take Lily out for a walk. That is one of my favorite things to do with her and she LOVES it! We can go out again today too cause it's supposed to be GREAT weather again!
This morning I went in to Westminster Canterbury while Matt watched Lily to help train the new person that the hired for my old job. I had a good time. Even though there's a lot of things I don't miss about the place, I really do miss some of my residents and a few of the people that I worked with. So it was really great to see them again! I'm going in again on Monday morning.
Lily was laughing SO hard last night. I had her going more than she ever has been before. I LOVE to hear her laugh - it makes me so happy that she is happy! I don't know if I wrote about this either, but she's also learned how to blow raspberries! Matt gets her to do it the best.
One of my new things that I love is my bluetooth headset for my cell phone. Matt got it for me for my birthday and it's WONDERFUL. It's so handy to have when you have a baby too. You have both hands free to do whatever while you're talking. I got the kind my sister has and it works great.
Well, off to go and work on packing and I need to run a few errands for Dawn's shower.
Yesterday it was nice weather so I was able to take Lily out for a walk. That is one of my favorite things to do with her and she LOVES it! We can go out again today too cause it's supposed to be GREAT weather again!
This morning I went in to Westminster Canterbury while Matt watched Lily to help train the new person that the hired for my old job. I had a good time. Even though there's a lot of things I don't miss about the place, I really do miss some of my residents and a few of the people that I worked with. So it was really great to see them again! I'm going in again on Monday morning.
Lily was laughing SO hard last night. I had her going more than she ever has been before. I LOVE to hear her laugh - it makes me so happy that she is happy! I don't know if I wrote about this either, but she's also learned how to blow raspberries! Matt gets her to do it the best.
One of my new things that I love is my bluetooth headset for my cell phone. Matt got it for me for my birthday and it's WONDERFUL. It's so handy to have when you have a baby too. You have both hands free to do whatever while you're talking. I got the kind my sister has and it works great.
Well, off to go and work on packing and I need to run a few errands for Dawn's shower.
Monday, March 10
Sickness
I have not posted in several days but there is a good reason - I'm sick. BLAH. I'm not supposed to get sick, I'm a mom! Matt's parents were here over the weekend so they helped out a ton but then they had to leave yesterday and yesterday was the worst day. So I called my parents to come help out for another day or two since I was feeling so rough. Today has been a bit of a better day than yesterday which is good. I always seem to get sick around my birthday - weird.
We had a great weekend with Matt's parents. They helped me celebrate my birthday, treated me to a delicious dinner at Friday's (I got to try out one of the ultimate recipe winners from the foodnetwork!), bought me a ice cream cake, gave me a gift card for Olive Garden since we didn't get to go because I was sick, and got my a bunch of scrapbooking supplies. It was great! Oh, my present was also in one of the cutest gift bags ever (thanks to Matt's mom)! Anyways, it was a great weekend despite being sick.
Well, the hubby has to work on some of his seminary classwork and I'm going to sit down and rest some more. Hopefully I'll be feeling better soon and back to blogging on a very regular basis!
We had a great weekend with Matt's parents. They helped me celebrate my birthday, treated me to a delicious dinner at Friday's (I got to try out one of the ultimate recipe winners from the foodnetwork!), bought me a ice cream cake, gave me a gift card for Olive Garden since we didn't get to go because I was sick, and got my a bunch of scrapbooking supplies. It was great! Oh, my present was also in one of the cutest gift bags ever (thanks to Matt's mom)! Anyways, it was a great weekend despite being sick.
Well, the hubby has to work on some of his seminary classwork and I'm going to sit down and rest some more. Hopefully I'll be feeling better soon and back to blogging on a very regular basis!
Friday, March 7
Birthday Time
So today is my 25th birthday. I'm halfway to 50 (when I put it that way it sounds awful!). My parents were here yesterday and today. This morning we went to Bob Evans for breakfast for my birthday, where else when my parents are here? Haha - only a few of you will understand this. If you don't, you're not missing out! :) I got a new outfit from my parents for my birthday and Matt got me a bluetooth headset that I wanted. Matt's been sick so he's home today which has been nice having him around even though I don't wish sickness upon him! Matt's parents will be here this evening. So lots of family today for my birthday. It's been good so far though.
Miss Lily has started blowing raspberries! Matt finally got her to do it copying him - it was so cute. And another first for today - I got her to go to sleep on her own in her crib on her BACK! AH! For those of you familiar with her sleep habits, she has only been able to sleep in her crib for naps on her tummy so far and keeps waking herself up and me having to go her the paci back. Not a good napper unfortunately. So this afternoon before she got fussy I laid her down underneath her mobile and let her watch that for awhile. She eventually took her pacifier and has gone to sleep. It's only been 8 minutes so far though - so I guess I'll see how this goes! Usually she wakes herself up with her arms flailing when she's on her back.
I would love to get her to the point where she doesn't need to be swaddled at night either, but for now it helps her to sleep so that's good. I've heard around 4 months is a good time to break them of the swaddle and hopefully she will have better control over her arms at that point. I think eventually I'm going to do the "cry it out" method with her. I'll probably go cold turkey at night with the swaddle and just let her cry but not until she's at least 4 months is what I've read you should do.
Off to go try and get my bluetooth headset set up. :) Then pick up a bit before Matt's parents get here tonight.
Miss Lily has started blowing raspberries! Matt finally got her to do it copying him - it was so cute. And another first for today - I got her to go to sleep on her own in her crib on her BACK! AH! For those of you familiar with her sleep habits, she has only been able to sleep in her crib for naps on her tummy so far and keeps waking herself up and me having to go her the paci back. Not a good napper unfortunately. So this afternoon before she got fussy I laid her down underneath her mobile and let her watch that for awhile. She eventually took her pacifier and has gone to sleep. It's only been 8 minutes so far though - so I guess I'll see how this goes! Usually she wakes herself up with her arms flailing when she's on her back.
I would love to get her to the point where she doesn't need to be swaddled at night either, but for now it helps her to sleep so that's good. I've heard around 4 months is a good time to break them of the swaddle and hopefully she will have better control over her arms at that point. I think eventually I'm going to do the "cry it out" method with her. I'll probably go cold turkey at night with the swaddle and just let her cry but not until she's at least 4 months is what I've read you should do.
Off to go try and get my bluetooth headset set up. :) Then pick up a bit before Matt's parents get here tonight.
Wednesday, March 5
North Carolina
Yesterday was an eventful day. We left in the morning after Lily woke up and ate to go to NC for Matt's interview. We stayed overnight with Dawn and her family. Matt's interview went okay - he's not sure whether he'll get it or not. He also would need the max amount of the hiring range in order for us to be able to do it with me being home. So I guess we'll see... We had a great day with Dawn, Chris, and Ava. Ava is hilarious - a little drama queen! :) She is really sweet with Lily except for when she is "not Lily's friend." Yes, she said that. :) Only because Lily can't play or really do anything right now. It's also because she HATES it when Lily cries! She will plug her ears or start crying herself. There was a moment in the evening when Lily was going nuts and we were trying to put a baby einstein on to calm her down. Well, of course when Lily was going to watch that Ava realized she wanted to watch her own movie (something princessy). So we have both Lily and Ava wailing their heads off - it was quite hilarious. Ava asked Matt: "do you ever call Lily, silly Lily?" Haha.
Today is also Ava's 4th birthday! She got to open our present for her which consisted of a princess nightgown, sparkly headbands, and a preschool workbook - 3 of her favorite things. She wears dresses/nightgowns all day and LOVES anything girly and with princesses!
Dawn is also getting big very soon with the twins! She will probably hate me saying that but it's a good thing. You're supposed to be bigger when you have twins! She looks great pregnant even though I know that she's miserable. I can't wait to meet the babies and hold them!!! I'm trying to convince her to tell me what the babies names might be, but she's not giving in yet. :)
This morning we left to come home. Got here around 11 and then Matt went straight in to work. My parents got here around noon so we've just been hanging out with them. I'm making Alicia's delicious chicken pot pie for dinner! Yes, I am making a real homemade meal everyone! :)
Well, gonna get off of here and wait for my wonderful hubby to get home!
Today is also Ava's 4th birthday! She got to open our present for her which consisted of a princess nightgown, sparkly headbands, and a preschool workbook - 3 of her favorite things. She wears dresses/nightgowns all day and LOVES anything girly and with princesses!
Dawn is also getting big very soon with the twins! She will probably hate me saying that but it's a good thing. You're supposed to be bigger when you have twins! She looks great pregnant even though I know that she's miserable. I can't wait to meet the babies and hold them!!! I'm trying to convince her to tell me what the babies names might be, but she's not giving in yet. :)
This morning we left to come home. Got here around 11 and then Matt went straight in to work. My parents got here around noon so we've just been hanging out with them. I'm making Alicia's delicious chicken pot pie for dinner! Yes, I am making a real homemade meal everyone! :)
Well, gonna get off of here and wait for my wonderful hubby to get home!
Monday, March 3
busy week
Today was an eventful day as is the rest of the week is going to be...
This morning I went to the handwriting training class at Mail America to hopefully qualify myself. You basically handwrite envelopes and get paid for doing it. So that should help us to bring in a little extra money as well to live! So hopefully they will like my cursive handwriting enough. Then this afternoon Lily and I went on a long walk outside. The weather was absolutely gorgeous! I'm definitely ready for spring. The rest of the day was filled with laundry, packing a few things, and taking care of Lily.
As for the rest of the week... Tomorrow we are headed down to my sister's house. Matt has an interview with a childcare place in Cary so be praying that that goes well and if it's meant to be, he will get it. We'll be staying overnight and celebrating Ava's 4th birthday! I can hardly believe she's turning 4! Then my parents are coming to visit from Wednesday through Friday. And finally, Matt's parents are coming to visit from Friday through Sunday. So by Monday I am sure I will be ready to get back to the norm for us and the quiet! Hopefully the week will go smoothly!
Oh yeah! And my birthday is Friday - I keep forgetting that. Guess I must be getting older huh? I'll be turning a quarter of a century! We're planning to hopefully have a few friends over for pizza on Saturday to help celebrate.
Well, gotta go help Matt tweak his resume for tomorrow and finish up the laundry. Then finally I might get a few minutes of rest before bedtime!
Here's the pictures of Lily's first big girl stroller ride that I promise:
Sunday, March 2
big girl stroller and more computer
I know I already posted today, but in the spirit of trying to blog more about things going on I figured I would write again about the news of the day... So for all you loyal readers, you should be proud of me. :)
As I said earlier, today we went looking for a computer. Well, we found the one we wanted and it was on sale ($200 off) at best buy. So we went ahead and got it. Matt, of course, has been playing with it pretty much the rest of the day. It's really nice. It's a Dell Inspiron. We've been really pleased with the dell I have now and this one was a really great deal! If you're interested, this is the one we got: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8679049&type=product&id=1197678601495
Then later this afternoon the weather was so nice I decided to go on a walk with Lily. We tried her out in her big girl stroller today for the first time instead of just her car seat and she did great!! I think she loved it too cause she could look around and she LOVES to do that - seeing as she is in to everything! She was great the whole time on the walk and she stayed in the seat great. So that was really fun! I was going to load the picture of us on our walk today but Matt has the ebook hooked up to the new computer at the moment so that will have to come later.
We have a very busy week coming up... but I will save that for tomorrow's blog.
As I said earlier, today we went looking for a computer. Well, we found the one we wanted and it was on sale ($200 off) at best buy. So we went ahead and got it. Matt, of course, has been playing with it pretty much the rest of the day. It's really nice. It's a Dell Inspiron. We've been really pleased with the dell I have now and this one was a really great deal! If you're interested, this is the one we got: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8679049&type=product&id=1197678601495
Then later this afternoon the weather was so nice I decided to go on a walk with Lily. We tried her out in her big girl stroller today for the first time instead of just her car seat and she did great!! I think she loved it too cause she could look around and she LOVES to do that - seeing as she is in to everything! She was great the whole time on the walk and she stayed in the seat great. So that was really fun! I was going to load the picture of us on our walk today but Matt has the ebook hooked up to the new computer at the moment so that will have to come later.
We have a very busy week coming up... but I will save that for tomorrow's blog.
naps, crib, computer, and simply apple
So I finally feel like I'm beginning to get Lily in a good nap schedule in her crib. We worked on the past few weeks her going down in her crib for naps. Which has worked great now that we just decided to put her on her tummy for those. The past few days she's also taken one morning nap, one afternoon nap, and then one 30 minute power nap in the evenings. So I think that's great! She still sometimes fights naps during the day and I have to rock her before I lay her down, but at least she's going down there!
Last night I finally got the courage to leave Lily in her crib in her room all night. I had been putting her down in there to begin with and then moving her to our room in the pack'n'play when we went to bed. I had a hard time with leaving my little baby alone in another room! But I finally did it last night! Plus, I'm lazy and didn't want to have to go that far each time I had to do something for her during the night. She sleeps now from about 7pm to 7am with eating once around 2AM. But then I usually have to get up several other times with her to give her her paci to get her to go back to sleep - so that's annoying. Don't know how/when I am going to be able to break that habit.
I think we might be purchasing a computer today. Ours has been on the fritz and doing odd things randomly. It's also not started up a few times. So we have been looking around and we finally think one that we want has gone on sale at best buy today. Hate to have to spend the money but we need the computer. Guess our big tax return will help to take care of it though!
Finally, this is a random comment but.... there is a new juice out from the people that make simply orange - it's SIMPLY APPLE. Oh man, it's amazing. It tastes like the delicious apple cider that we get in Maryland from this place called McCutcheon's. If you haven't tried it, you've got to! It's incredible.
Last night I finally got the courage to leave Lily in her crib in her room all night. I had been putting her down in there to begin with and then moving her to our room in the pack'n'play when we went to bed. I had a hard time with leaving my little baby alone in another room! But I finally did it last night! Plus, I'm lazy and didn't want to have to go that far each time I had to do something for her during the night. She sleeps now from about 7pm to 7am with eating once around 2AM. But then I usually have to get up several other times with her to give her her paci to get her to go back to sleep - so that's annoying. Don't know how/when I am going to be able to break that habit.
I think we might be purchasing a computer today. Ours has been on the fritz and doing odd things randomly. It's also not started up a few times. So we have been looking around and we finally think one that we want has gone on sale at best buy today. Hate to have to spend the money but we need the computer. Guess our big tax return will help to take care of it though!
Finally, this is a random comment but.... there is a new juice out from the people that make simply orange - it's SIMPLY APPLE. Oh man, it's amazing. It tastes like the delicious apple cider that we get in Maryland from this place called McCutcheon's. If you haven't tried it, you've got to! It's incredible.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
