Here is what we received:
ELLISON
Want: Leap Frog Music Table
Need: Straw Sippy Cup
Wear: Butterfly 12m PJs
Read: A book Daddy picked out
Daddy's Gift: Walker Wagon
LILLIAN
Want: Birdie Necklace
Need: Rolling Suitcase
Wear: Butterfly PJs 5T
Read: A-Z books w/ CD
Daddy's Gift: Connectagons
RICHARD:
Want: Ipad Stylus
Need: I-thing multi charger
Wear: Boxers
Read: Movie Gift Card (he can read the credits)
STACEY
Want: iphone
Need: Laptop
Wear: (he forgot wear) and got me Scattegories
Read: Kindle gift card and Mercy by Jodi Piccoult
We are blessed!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Milestones
Ellison started waving AND crawling just before Christmas and then yesterday, she popped her first two teeth through! What a big week for her!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Similac Simply Smart Bottle Review
I asked for the opportunity to review the Similac Simply Smart Bottle because I thought it was innovative and exactly what I needed. They graciously agreed to send me one to try out. I received it yesterday and have already put it to good use and I have to say, I love it!
And, the bottle came with a HANDWRITTEN NOTE. HANDWRITTEN people. Talk about a lost art form. And from a corporation no less. Made me smile right out of the box. One point for Similac's media relations team.
The Simply Smart bottle is new, and I haven't seen it on any store shelves yet. But it is available at Similac's online store as well as Walmart and Target online.
The features I liked best were the formula "mixer" inside the bottle and the optional formula dispenser cap. As most of you know, both of my girls have had medical issues and have been on formula since they were very young. The rubber portion in the bottle, does indeed, help to mix and de-clump the formula and I LOVE that although removable, it is firmly attached. I tend to use a bottle once, rinse it out, set it on the drying rack and use it again for the next bottle. The rubber part stays in, even upside down. It might seem little, but its big because its one less step, I don't have to take it out and put it in each time I use the bottle. But it does come out for easy deep cleaning.
I was a little disappointed that the bottle I was sent did not include the optional formula holder cap. I understand that this is purchased separately, because the added feature would mean added cost and I wouldn't want that added on to every bottle. But, I figured for review purposes, the optional top would also be included. I am looking forward to getting my hands on one of these caps and trying it out, I think it has the potential to be the best feature yet.
I also really like that the numbers, measuring the ounces, on the bottle, are in dark blue. Some of the other bottles have lighter numbers that are hard to see in the daylight, let alone under running water or at night. These numbers are large and dark and super easy to see.
Ellison is quite picky about her bottles and LOVES her Nuk bottles. I don't like that they have a shaped nipple, so it has to go in her mouth a specific way. Kind of a pain in the middle of the night, and we have PLENTY of middle of the night feedings still.
But, medically, she is required to have cereal in her bottles, which makes it hard to flow through some nipples. That was the case with this nipple, on our first attempt, she couldn't get anything out. I merely took a kitchen knife and "adapted" the nipple hole size and we were in business. She had no fussing about the different shape of the nipple (SCORE!) and she had no problems getting every last bit out.
So, all in all, my only issue with this bottle is that I wish I had the other part, and more of them :-) Overall, I think this bottle has the potential to become our new go-to bottle.
Important stuff: I was sent a Simply Smart bottle to try out. They did not tell me what to tell you about this bottle and they even said I didn't have to write at all if I didn't want to. And Nicole was fabulous to work with!
And, the bottle came with a HANDWRITTEN NOTE. HANDWRITTEN people. Talk about a lost art form. And from a corporation no less. Made me smile right out of the box. One point for Similac's media relations team.
The Simply Smart bottle is new, and I haven't seen it on any store shelves yet. But it is available at Similac's online store as well as Walmart and Target online.
The features I liked best were the formula "mixer" inside the bottle and the optional formula dispenser cap. As most of you know, both of my girls have had medical issues and have been on formula since they were very young. The rubber portion in the bottle, does indeed, help to mix and de-clump the formula and I LOVE that although removable, it is firmly attached. I tend to use a bottle once, rinse it out, set it on the drying rack and use it again for the next bottle. The rubber part stays in, even upside down. It might seem little, but its big because its one less step, I don't have to take it out and put it in each time I use the bottle. But it does come out for easy deep cleaning.
I was a little disappointed that the bottle I was sent did not include the optional formula holder cap. I understand that this is purchased separately, because the added feature would mean added cost and I wouldn't want that added on to every bottle. But, I figured for review purposes, the optional top would also be included. I am looking forward to getting my hands on one of these caps and trying it out, I think it has the potential to be the best feature yet.
I also really like that the numbers, measuring the ounces, on the bottle, are in dark blue. Some of the other bottles have lighter numbers that are hard to see in the daylight, let alone under running water or at night. These numbers are large and dark and super easy to see.
Ellison is quite picky about her bottles and LOVES her Nuk bottles. I don't like that they have a shaped nipple, so it has to go in her mouth a specific way. Kind of a pain in the middle of the night, and we have PLENTY of middle of the night feedings still.
But, medically, she is required to have cereal in her bottles, which makes it hard to flow through some nipples. That was the case with this nipple, on our first attempt, she couldn't get anything out. I merely took a kitchen knife and "adapted" the nipple hole size and we were in business. She had no fussing about the different shape of the nipple (SCORE!) and she had no problems getting every last bit out.
So, all in all, my only issue with this bottle is that I wish I had the other part, and more of them :-) Overall, I think this bottle has the potential to become our new go-to bottle.
Important stuff: I was sent a Simply Smart bottle to try out. They did not tell me what to tell you about this bottle and they even said I didn't have to write at all if I didn't want to. And Nicole was fabulous to work with!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Sili Squeeze Review
I was given the opportunity to review the Sili Squeeze. They are careful to say it is not a bottle, but a squeeze intended for pureed foods. You know, like applesauce, pureed baby foods, yogurt, etc. It has a special no spill valve. They have two sizes, 4oz and 6oz.
The Sili Company sent me the product to revew and it arrived with gorgeous packaging. It didn't come in a box itself, but when I opened the shipping box, I found the product and some information nested in tissue paper printed with the company name. What a simple, but professional looking touch. Unfortunately R threw out the packaging before I got my camera to it.
The Sili Company sent me the product to revew and it arrived with gorgeous packaging. It didn't come in a box itself, but when I opened the shipping box, I found the product and some information nested in tissue paper printed with the company name. What a simple, but professional looking touch. Unfortunately R threw out the packaging before I got my camera to it.
I was hesitant about washing it. But it comes fully apart and was a breeze to clean. But I have to say that if you left the food in there overnight and let it get dried and crusty it might be harder. DUH! I just rinsed it out right away, and swirled some soap around in it with my bottle brush. Rinse and voila!
I also like that the cap is attached with a string. One less thing to lose. Although I do think that over time the cord like string has the ability to get dirty.
There is no way that Ellison could use this yet, she just would not get the hang of the bite valve concept. Lillian though, loved the idea and it only took her 1-2 tries before she was happily sucking away at her yogurt. I think this is a great option for things like applesauce, pudding and yogurt on the go or on roadtrips.
I was also excited to see that they are going to soon be releasing a Sili Squeeze without the no spill valve. I would love to try one of those out for Ellison's baby food (hint, hint Sili Company). Ideally, I would like to have one of each kind of valve and one of each size squeeze, I think they would make a great addition to our "kid cupboard".
You should go visit The Sili Company and check out what they are doing. I think this company is one to watch in the future for more great products. Would you use a Sili Squeeze? What would you use it for? What do you think of their pricing?
Important stuff: I was provided a 4oz Sili Squeeze from the company and asked to provide my opinion in a review style blog post. They didn't tell me what to say or what opinion to have :-)
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Christmas Fun
We recently had the chance to have a friend's two little girls with us for the day. I, of course, had to have a fun activity.
Pinterest to the rescue, and we have these super cute and SUPER EASY Christmas trees!
LIFE CHANGING PROJECT
I have two reviews coming up but today I wanted to share with you one tip that has literally changed my life. I'm serious. No dramatics here.
I had a three drawer cart that we used in our bedroom when Ellison was in a pack and play in there. We used it for Diapers/Wipes, blankets and PJs. Well now, she is in her own room. I'm still wondering on the wisdom of that decision as I go up and down the hallway 10 times each night, but she is in her own room.
So, it left me with one of my favorite dilemmas....what to do with that fantastic, empty storage container. Hmm...The three drawer things are one of my favorites. I use one for my craft stuff (sewing in one drawer, paper crafts in another and labels/photo paper/ribbons/misc in the third). And I use one for Lillian's play kitchen extras. I use one under my bathroom sink (new/extra products in one drawer, haircutting/styling tools in one and cleaning products in the third). I use one in the girls' closet (too big clothes/shoes for Ellison in one drawer, the same for Lillian in the second and blankets in the other). I use one in my closet (handbags in one, regular shoes in one, special occasion shoes in the other).
Yes, I'm obsessed. Oh, I also have a tiny one under my bathroom sink with makeup/occasional products in it (face makeup in one, specialty eyeshadows/lipsticks in the second and nail polishes in the third). And another tiny one for meds for the girls (pain reliever in one, ointments in the second, and cough/allergy/specialty in the third). And yes, they're mostly all labelled. DUH.
But as you can see, I already use SEVERAL of these, and we are cram packed into this place, so the decision of where to put it now was a hard one. I let it sit empty for about a week while I pondered it. Then, it came to me, I wanted it in the kitchen. Ellison has started babyfood. Which of course means about 60 jars a month of the stuff as well as cheerios, puffs, mum-mum's, etc. I wanted it all in a drawer, rather than the shelf it was currently on. I took my life (and my eyeballs) into my own hands everytime I tried to grab one, and only one, jar down from the shelf that was above my head. No more!
But..as I said, we are cram packed into this place, kitchen/pantry included. However, I had the perfect use for these drawers so I was on a mission. I was literally ready to put these drawers on top of our counter if need be. But the man wasn't too thrilled with that idea.
But wait, the lowest shelf of our pantry looked like it was going to be perfect height to just slide the drawers under it. Well, almost. And by almost I mean, it was too tall, by about a quarter of an inch. Yes, really. I was SO mad. I tried at the ends of the shelf incase the middle was sagging down at all, nope, still 1/4inch too tall. I finally lifted and pushed and squeezed those drawers under there, but then the pressure and weight on the drawers made them unable to open.
Well that doesn't work. There was no place else. We have tons of wasted space on top of our washer/dryer but we can't set anything on top of them, as it will ruin the calibration or something and create an annoying noise and necessitate a service call. One day, in our own home, we will have a countertop above them.
Anywho, I decided to make it R's problem. I told him what I wanted and told him to "make it work" anywhere in the kitchen/pantry/even dining room area. He immediately became overcome by testosterone and started trying to tear apart my precious drawers. I may have gone a little nuts but he assured me, so lovingly, "its fine, go away, I'll do it."
Hrumph.
Except, in five minutes, he said, "come here, I did it". He had taken the top drawer off, (which I didn't know you could do without ruining the whole thing). Now, it fit under the bottom shelf but left a random drawer. Thankfully, I had just cleaned out and re-organized the pantry (shocker, huh?), so I had some shelf space up above.
So...without further ado, my life changing project.
Two drawers on the floor of the pantry, one for baby food stuff and one for Lillian. All of her snacks go in there, either in their individually wrapped packages or in my self divided (earth killing) Ziplock bags, holding one portion of things like animal crackers, teddy grahams and goldfish. I used the third drawer on the higher shelf for all of R's snacks...obviously completely lacking in nutritional value.
The life changing part....Lillian can get herself something. When we're running out the door and she's "STARVING". When I'm in the shower and she's "gonna die I so hungry". When its 5am and "its light so I hunnry, Mommy." She knows (and miraculously obeys) that she is not allowed to open the drawer unless I tell her it is okay. She is allowed to pick any one thing from the drawer. I do have things such as suckers and smartees in there, but for the most part she goes for graham crackers and cereal and granola bars.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how this has worked so well that I did the same thing in my fridge. Lillian now has a drawer all to herself. It has cheesesticks, apples, lunchables, baggies of grapes, ham cubes, etc. She LOVES yogurt but so much that I refuse to buy individual sizes so the big bucket is up top in the fridge.
Now, when she asks to get something from "my drawer", she can go to the fridge OR the pantry, and pick any one thing.
I LOVE IT and it works for me!
I had a three drawer cart that we used in our bedroom when Ellison was in a pack and play in there. We used it for Diapers/Wipes, blankets and PJs. Well now, she is in her own room. I'm still wondering on the wisdom of that decision as I go up and down the hallway 10 times each night, but she is in her own room.
So, it left me with one of my favorite dilemmas....what to do with that fantastic, empty storage container. Hmm...The three drawer things are one of my favorites. I use one for my craft stuff (sewing in one drawer, paper crafts in another and labels/photo paper/ribbons/misc in the third). And I use one for Lillian's play kitchen extras. I use one under my bathroom sink (new/extra products in one drawer, haircutting/styling tools in one and cleaning products in the third). I use one in the girls' closet (too big clothes/shoes for Ellison in one drawer, the same for Lillian in the second and blankets in the other). I use one in my closet (handbags in one, regular shoes in one, special occasion shoes in the other).
Yes, I'm obsessed. Oh, I also have a tiny one under my bathroom sink with makeup/occasional products in it (face makeup in one, specialty eyeshadows/lipsticks in the second and nail polishes in the third). And another tiny one for meds for the girls (pain reliever in one, ointments in the second, and cough/allergy/specialty in the third). And yes, they're mostly all labelled. DUH.
But as you can see, I already use SEVERAL of these, and we are cram packed into this place, so the decision of where to put it now was a hard one. I let it sit empty for about a week while I pondered it. Then, it came to me, I wanted it in the kitchen. Ellison has started babyfood. Which of course means about 60 jars a month of the stuff as well as cheerios, puffs, mum-mum's, etc. I wanted it all in a drawer, rather than the shelf it was currently on. I took my life (and my eyeballs) into my own hands everytime I tried to grab one, and only one, jar down from the shelf that was above my head. No more!
But..as I said, we are cram packed into this place, kitchen/pantry included. However, I had the perfect use for these drawers so I was on a mission. I was literally ready to put these drawers on top of our counter if need be. But the man wasn't too thrilled with that idea.
But wait, the lowest shelf of our pantry looked like it was going to be perfect height to just slide the drawers under it. Well, almost. And by almost I mean, it was too tall, by about a quarter of an inch. Yes, really. I was SO mad. I tried at the ends of the shelf incase the middle was sagging down at all, nope, still 1/4inch too tall. I finally lifted and pushed and squeezed those drawers under there, but then the pressure and weight on the drawers made them unable to open.
Well that doesn't work. There was no place else. We have tons of wasted space on top of our washer/dryer but we can't set anything on top of them, as it will ruin the calibration or something and create an annoying noise and necessitate a service call. One day, in our own home, we will have a countertop above them.
Anywho, I decided to make it R's problem. I told him what I wanted and told him to "make it work" anywhere in the kitchen/pantry/even dining room area. He immediately became overcome by testosterone and started trying to tear apart my precious drawers. I may have gone a little nuts but he assured me, so lovingly, "its fine, go away, I'll do it."
Hrumph.
Except, in five minutes, he said, "come here, I did it". He had taken the top drawer off, (which I didn't know you could do without ruining the whole thing). Now, it fit under the bottom shelf but left a random drawer. Thankfully, I had just cleaned out and re-organized the pantry (shocker, huh?), so I had some shelf space up above.
So...without further ado, my life changing project.
Two drawers on the floor of the pantry, one for baby food stuff and one for Lillian. All of her snacks go in there, either in their individually wrapped packages or in my self divided (earth killing) Ziplock bags, holding one portion of things like animal crackers, teddy grahams and goldfish. I used the third drawer on the higher shelf for all of R's snacks...obviously completely lacking in nutritional value.
The life changing part....Lillian can get herself something. When we're running out the door and she's "STARVING". When I'm in the shower and she's "gonna die I so hungry". When its 5am and "its light so I hunnry, Mommy." She knows (and miraculously obeys) that she is not allowed to open the drawer unless I tell her it is okay. She is allowed to pick any one thing from the drawer. I do have things such as suckers and smartees in there, but for the most part she goes for graham crackers and cereal and granola bars.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how this has worked so well that I did the same thing in my fridge. Lillian now has a drawer all to herself. It has cheesesticks, apples, lunchables, baggies of grapes, ham cubes, etc. She LOVES yogurt but so much that I refuse to buy individual sizes so the big bucket is up top in the fridge.
Now, when she asks to get something from "my drawer", she can go to the fridge OR the pantry, and pick any one thing.
I LOVE IT and it works for me!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Best Baby Carrier Ever...half off!
It is no secret that I love and adore my Beco Butterfly II baby carrier. And Ellison is pretty in love with the thing too. It is the best thing ever.
And it is priced like it is the best thing ever. It is normally $140-$150. Now, I fully believe it is worth every stinking penny of that, BUT I am also not made of money.
Well, if you have been wanting one, and haven't because of the price, has FrogMama got the deal for you.
Tomorrow, Monday, December 19, she has four patterns of the Butterfly II for half off. That's only $70 for a BRAND NEW, in box, with warranty and return policy Beco Butterfly II.
Isn't it pretty? And they have my favorite pattern included.
What are you still doing here? Click on this link and GO BUY IT.
And it is priced like it is the best thing ever. It is normally $140-$150. Now, I fully believe it is worth every stinking penny of that, BUT I am also not made of money.
Well, if you have been wanting one, and haven't because of the price, has FrogMama got the deal for you.
Tomorrow, Monday, December 19, she has four patterns of the Butterfly II for half off. That's only $70 for a BRAND NEW, in box, with warranty and return policy Beco Butterfly II.
Isn't it pretty? And they have my favorite pattern included.
What are you still doing here? Click on this link and GO BUY IT.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Wishlist
Since it worked so well the other day...
Ellison has asked me 12 times a day for a Mesh Crib Bumper. Well, of course, she hasn't ASKED me, but she does throw a dozen pacifiers down the back side of the crib each day and then scream like a maniac, so I know she would love one.
Ellison has asked me 12 times a day for a Mesh Crib Bumper. Well, of course, she hasn't ASKED me, but she does throw a dozen pacifiers down the back side of the crib each day and then scream like a maniac, so I know she would love one.
Great Products
I am SO excited. Do you remember when I reviewed the Pop-A-Tot when it first came out? We had the pre-production model, and I loved it. I am so excited to use it again this holiday season while we are traveling.
Well, I have had the opportunity to do some more reviews. I have turned down a couple offers from companies and/or products that I didn't think were top notch, but I have two reviews coming up that I am very excited about!!
Stay tuned in the next few weeks for a review of the Sili Squeeze and the new bottle that Similac has made expressly with formula feeding mommies in mind. I am so excited about both of these products and can't wait to tell you guys all about them.
I also have a possible opportunity coming up. Its still a secret, but if it happens, it will be HUGE.
Well, I have had the opportunity to do some more reviews. I have turned down a couple offers from companies and/or products that I didn't think were top notch, but I have two reviews coming up that I am very excited about!!
Stay tuned in the next few weeks for a review of the Sili Squeeze and the new bottle that Similac has made expressly with formula feeding mommies in mind. I am so excited about both of these products and can't wait to tell you guys all about them.
I also have a possible opportunity coming up. Its still a secret, but if it happens, it will be HUGE.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Ellison had an excellent GI appointment today. Her weight is low, but gain is steady. Her intake is normal. Her output is extremely high (duh) and still comes out her nose but is no longer making her turn blue. She is down to 1 prescription, bringing our monthly output down from $75 to just $5! AND, the dr. agrees completely that her sleep is ridiculous, so Operation Get Your Butt To Sleep and Keep It That Way shall commence immediately, hard core.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Wishlist updated
Lillian would love the Tangled Soundtrack, or an itunes card to purchase it. She tells me about 12 times a day.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Random Ramblings: Kid Gear
When getting an umbrella stroller, pay a little more and get one that reclines. SO worth it. Even Lil will not sleep in a stroller that is up, but lay it down and she'll sleep anywhere. We have the Chicco Trevi and I LOOOOOVE it. It has a basket, a kid tray (a must have for us), it reclines fully, it has a huge sunshade, it folds up small (not as small as some umbrellas though), and it has a parent pouch and cupholder. Cons: It could fold up smaller, I would LOVE a removable seat liner and the parent cupholder falls off sometimes (not during use, during folding up and down).
Best big carseat ever....Graco Nautilus 3 in 1. It think it doesn't start until 22 pounds, but from then on, its the only carseat you'll ever need. Its one of the longest 5pt harness carseats and then goes to a high back booster, then you can take the back off for a regular booster. Watch for sales when she is getting close. go to www.babycheapskate.com and watch for deals. she posts deals on gear, toys, diapers, wipes, etc. Each week she will tell you where wipes and diapers and formula are cheapest and if its just a sale or if its a "stockuportunity"
Get a jumperoo or a walker. You don't need both. If you have mostly carpet, its pointless to get a walker.
We have a single Graco Quattro Tour stroller and a Graco infant seat. By far my favorite travel system, I had one for Lillian, sold it on craigslist, tried a Peg Perego, Chicco and some random one before going back to Graco Quattro Tour for Ellison. Best full size single stroler ever in my opinion.
We also have the Graco Quattro Tour double stroller. Now, I will be the first to say that unless you spend many hundreds of dollars on a double stroller (like a BOB), its going to be huge and bulky. That said, for the cheaper end of strollers, I love this one. I didn't want a side by side because we do lots of shopping and its hard enough to fit through aisles with a single wide. I like that the infant carseat can go in the front or the back (or both, if you have twins). I like that there are two cupholders for the adults and a pouch for stuff, as well as Graco's notorious large basket. There is also a snack tray and/or cupholder for both seats as well as a "treasure pouch". I don't like...that its heavy. Really heavy. But other than putting it into and getting it out of the van, I love it.
Random Ramblings: Misc Kids Stuff
If you can talk people into NOT buying her gifts the first two years when she doesn't know anyways, bonds are an awesome substitution.
I highly recommend starting an email address for her. YOu can email her funny things she says/does, recaps of vacations, attach super special photos or videos that you want to make sure she gets a story with, and you can ask family to write to her once a year. I email each of the girls after their birthday and christmas and list who got what for them. What a great gift when she graduates. I don't even plan on telling my girls about it until they are 18.
MAKE sure if you don't already, that you start backing up photos/videos regularly. More regularly than you think you should. Because anything that happens and the tiniest thing you lose will now become so important.
Get a set of washcloths that are not any color that you currently use for your house. The brighter and more obnoxious the better. If red is a color, even better (more on that in a minute). Get about 20. Don't get them from the dollar store, but don't get them at Macy's. I think ours are two Target sets of 10. Use these as "kid cloths". We use them for anything from wiping faces to cleaning spitup to wiping down the highchair. AND if you have red ones, they're great to use when the kid is bleeding. They won't see how much blood there is and freak out more.
Random Ramblings: Toys
Buy wooden, classic toys. SERIOUSLY. If it has batteries, your kids will outgrow it faster. People told me this and I didn't agree. Well its true. Lillian loves wooden blocks, legos, dress up, craft stuff, playdough and instruments. The same things our parents loved and we loved. TOTALLY worth only buying "classic" toys. Her other favorite is Little People. Not the houses or buildings or vehicles, just the people.
That said, she NEEDS the Leap Frog Music Table for when she's 8ish months old. Best thing ever. We had one for Lil and she still plays with it, and is mad we're "giving" it to Ellison for Christmas.
Baby Einstein and other "baby" movies...a total waste. THey don't need to be watching TV at this point, and if they're interested in the TV and you don't care that they watch, they will watch anything, not just baby movies.
When she is about 12 months she will "pick" a favorite blanket. Feel free to foster this by picking one yourself and giving it to her over and over and over. When she has a favorite, run, don't walk, to the store you bought it from (while its still in stock) and buy two more. Keep one in her bed, one in the car and one put away as an extra when one of the other two is being washed. BEST thing I ever did. (the blankets that I find hold up the best...4 years later...are a knit blanket. Think sweater type. Lil's have all been washed at least 100 times and look fabulous.)
If you are going to need blankets in the summer time, get Aden+Anias muslin blankets. They're expensive. And totally worth it. They are available at Target too or you can stalk them online and watch for a sale. BEST thin, HUGE summer blankets. Great for a cuddle, laying on the grass or covering the parts of the stroller that the sunshade misses.
Random Rambings: Diapers
Don't buy too far ahead, you will end up with lots of smaller ones you're trying to cram on her and then she'll leak through and it will just be frustrating.
We liked pampers brand best overall, always. But, target has the best off brand and after 6m I switch to them. Sometimes, when I'm having issues, I use Target during the day and Pampers at night.
Pampers wipes suck. Huggies are best. Cheapest on AMazon Mom or at Sam's. Sam's recently changed their distributors of off brand wipes and they now ROCK. Better than Huggies. My new favorite.
When you are ready to get pull ups, don't get off brand. And get pull ups (huggies) not whatever pampers' are called. And use them sparingly, they're expensive.
Start potty training as early as you want to, but give it a few days and if its not working, put everything away for a month or two and try again. Their timing on this one or it will kill you.
Random Ramblings: Kid Food
If you don't already, ask your doctor for formula samples every time you go in. EVERY time. And if you see any specialists for any reason, ask them too. They all have formula to give, might as well be to you.
And if you're not on the formula company's mailing list for coupons, go to their website and sign up. And then sign your mom up. And his dad. And your neighbors. If she's doing okay on formula, and type doesn't seem to matter, switch to offbrand ASAP. Target was awesome for Lil and so was Sam's.
Toddler formula is a joke and not necessary at all.
Start a sippy cup with a straw when you start foods. Its easier for them to learn to use a straw the earlier they do it, and it will save you later when you're at restaurants and such. At the beginning, just put the cup on their high chair tray and let them play with it, they will figure it out in their own time.
WAIT to feed her. Wait til 6-7 months for sure. You have the rest of your life that you're going to have to feed her, and babyfood is a pain in the REAR. For real. The older they are when you start, the less you have to fight with it. And as soon as you start babyfood, start offering bigger chunks of food, for them to play with, at first. It will help them learn to eat "real" foods easier and faster, which is the ultimate goal. Cook a potato, and slice it into thick fry type slices and just hand her one when she's 6-8months old. She might gnaw on it, once she learns how to get it to her mouth, but what she gets off, she will be able to eat. She will just play with it at the beginning.
When you get a high chair, which will be sooner than you think, get one that sits on a regular chair. You will LOVE it later, and its perfectly fine for babies. And get one that has the fewest cushions/pads, etc. You will be cleaning runny, chunky food out of this thing 3 times a day, the fewer cushions, crevices the better.
Take away the pacifier and the bottle as soon as you can, the sooner, the easier it will be. Last bottle by 12m for sure. The sippy cups come with super soft silicone no spill spouts now, so its just like a bottle, but easier to transfer to other cups. Also get her to drink sips out of a regular cup as soon as possible. Like before a year. We didn't with Lil and she literally couldn't drink out of a cup without a lid until she was almost three.
Mum Mums. Best teething biscuit ever. DO NOT buy any "teething biscuits", ever, they are grossness. Soak a graham cracker in milk for a minute then take it in your fingers and squeeze then smear it on every available surface, including in your hair and ears and you'll understand :-) Mum Mums still make a little mess if they gum it and then take it out, but its much less a mess, and much lighter in color.
Puffs. I say buy one container of them. Any more and its a waste of money. Buy one when she's just staring "food" and break them into pieces and give them to her. Through that one container, make her pieces bigger and bigger until they are whole pieces, then give her cheerios. MUCH cheaper.
Yogurt puffs by gerber....NASTY.
Toddler Gerber Graduates meals....HORRIBLE HORRIBLE nutrition. I'm SO not into being a nutrition police, but these things are horrible. Give her a lunchable instead. Seriously, its better.
Let me know if you're interested in making your own babyfood.
Bumpy Names Labels by Orbit...great for the bottles for nursery.
Random Ramblings: Kid Clothes
They only need 1-2 light coat. A jean jacket, a windbreaker, a raincoat, a sweatshirt hoodie, a church coat....they can add up. Lil has exactly 9 coats that fit her right now. They are all from goodwill, but still, EXCESS.
Buy snowpants a size big and wear them for at least two years, generally three. And get the bib kind not just the kind that goes to the waist.
GET mittens that have the attached string, OR get the mitten clips. A necessity.
Make sure all hats have lower ear flaps,when they're tiny. Otherwise, in order to cover her ears, it will be over her eyes.
Gap. Worth it. Always. Well, except at full retail price. But, scour goodwill, craigslist, friends hand me downs, gap outlet and regular gap store clearance ANYTIME you get the chance. If you have an outlet by you go once a month and check the clearance. Buy basics ahead of time, a year or so even. GAP wears the best. Of anything, ever. But don't buy one piece of a collection (red and white striped leggings or pink, brown and blue polka dot skirt) unless you already have something to match it. If not, you will always want her to wear it and never have anything to match it.
Other than Gap, my second choice of clothing brand would be Oshkosh (or Genuine Kids at Target). Target brands vary...circo is good for cheap playclothes, Cherokee is good for most anything. Walmart is great for basics, but their selection is never very large. BabyDepot (burlington) is great for cheap clothes, but very often tends to be ethic/black in style so you need to have time to sort. Gymboree recently dropped their quality AND raised their prices. Never worth it. Childrens Place tends to be obnoxious (in my opinion) for girls. Lots of loud prints, neon colors, etc. But they are great for solid color leggings and solid shirts (at outlet or on clearance). Old Navy has some good quality and some bad, some good looks and some bad....you have to look careful. Carters is GREAT for babies up to about 24m. After that, they tend to be too "cutsey" and Lil wants nothing to do with them.
For pajamas, once they're past 12m or so, you will find two types of pajamas, the skinnier kind (gap, old navy) and wider legged kinds. Get the wider ones, they will fit even chunkier babies and will fit for longer. Lil couldn't even wear the skinny ones in her size, and she was TINY.
For some reason Christmas dresses only ever come in sleeveless. Its SO annoying. Keep your eye out for anything that is long sleeved or jumper like that you could add a shirt under, so you don't have to cover up the whole dress with a sweater.
Gap shoes, cheap, not worth it, even on clearance. Stride Rite...good, but only worth it on clearance or secondhand.
Always buy white shirts, short sleeve, long sleeve, sleeveless. You will use them for all those plaid, polka dots and striped bottoms.
For every size (after 4-5 when they are walking) I get the following shoes: boots or sandals depending on the season, tennis shoes (worth spending money on only after sz 8or so), brown and black marry janes and pink dress shoes. I make sure my sandals are water worthy (not leather) or I get leather sandals AND water shoes. Crocs are awful, awful looking shoes, but are great for water and never smell.
Swimsuits always need to be a size bigger than the kid is wearing.
Dresses can usually fit still even when they move into the next size. Best investment ever...dresses that you love that aren't "super duper fancy velvet" but more "everyday dresses" because you can wear them after as "tunics" with leggings. Lil still has two 24m dresses in her room that she wearrs as shirts, when she's now wearing 4-5T.
Watch out when it comes to underwear, even for 2-3T sizes they have "bikini" and "low cut" types.
Careful when you are buying outfits ahead, for most of her life, Lillian has been a size ahead in tops than she was in pants. I find it easiest to limit what I buy ahead to solids and basics. They WILL need jeans in every size, even a pair or two for the summer. They WILL need a long and short sleeve white shirt in every size. They WILL need short and long sleeve dresses in every size. They will need plain color socks in every size. Its a safe bet you will need black and pink stretch pants in each size and pink shirts are always fine.
Skip holiday themed clothes after the first few months, a waste. Stick with solids or simple patterns that can look holiday but can be used later. A red polka dot shirt can be with a green bow for christmas, a red bow for valentine's and and a blue bow for 4th of july.
Pinterest Recipes
As you may or may not know, a website called Pinterest has slowly taken over the internet world. Especially among women. It is what you could call a visual "favorites" or "bookmarks" site. People use it for recipes, craft ideas, homeschool ideas, wedding and party planning, home decorating/design ideas....I have used it to make two "boards" to help friends plan parties and I am stewing ideas for each of the girls' next parties. And some just plain brilliant little tips. Like, if you put a wooden spoon on top of a pot of boiling water, it will never boil over. For real.
In short, I love it. And while I have hundreds of "pins", I'm determined to actually USE it, rather than just amass a huge collection of things I will never do.
I have already done some of the craft, homeschool ideas and I have made several recipes. Some good, some not so good, as you can imagine.
The other day, I tried the Crock Pot Baked Potato Soup. No good. Very flavorless and too much work to be a "crock pot meal".
I tried the Grilled Cheese Rollups with the soup. Now those were DELICIOUS. But lets face it: Cheese, bread, butter, not much could go wrong there. R said there might even be "too much cheese". And THAT is how you know a good recipe.
Today I made the Easy Caramels and the No Bake Granola Bars. I haven't tried either yet, but they both look delicious.
Go, check it out.
In short, I love it. And while I have hundreds of "pins", I'm determined to actually USE it, rather than just amass a huge collection of things I will never do.
I have already done some of the craft, homeschool ideas and I have made several recipes. Some good, some not so good, as you can imagine.
The other day, I tried the Crock Pot Baked Potato Soup. No good. Very flavorless and too much work to be a "crock pot meal".
I tried the Grilled Cheese Rollups with the soup. Now those were DELICIOUS. But lets face it: Cheese, bread, butter, not much could go wrong there. R said there might even be "too much cheese". And THAT is how you know a good recipe.
Today I made the Easy Caramels and the No Bake Granola Bars. I haven't tried either yet, but they both look delicious.
Go, check it out.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
2011 Wish Lists-Updated January 31
2011 Christmas Lists
Whole Family-
Regal Cinemas Gift Card
Stacey-
Gift cards for: itunes, Amazon
2 "Bento" Dinner Plates 9.5" square $5, 1 Rectangular platter $10 and 1 "Soup Bowl" 5.5" square $3 from cb2.com
Kitchen Aid Pouring Shield $12
Kitchen Aid FPPA Mixer Attachment Pack $118
Richard-
itunes gift cards
Texas Roadhouse gift cards
Snacks for ship-Jerkey, Laffy Taffy, Powdered drink mix (indiv bottle size), Dunkin Donuts coffee, individual ketchup/bbq sauce packets, Easy Mac, Tide wash pellets, Monster drinks
He will need phone cards again, but we're not sure exactly what yet, MONEY FOR THIS WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED BY HIS WIFE :-)
Ellison-
Money for her savings account
Size 4 Pampers Diapers
Savings bonds
http://amzn.com/w/18LIELRP0F9EK
Lillian-
16inch bicycle with training wheels and a helmet. No characters please. She has requested a basket and a doll seat.
Books, CDs and Movies that are on her Amazon wish list
itunes gift card
Savings bonds
Whole Family-
Regal Cinemas Gift Card
Stacey-
Gift cards for: itunes, Amazon
2 "Bento" Dinner Plates 9.5" square $5, 1 Rectangular platter $10 and 1 "Soup Bowl" 5.5" square $3 from cb2.com
Kitchen Aid Pouring Shield $12
Kitchen Aid FPPA Mixer Attachment Pack $118
Richard-
itunes gift cards
Texas Roadhouse gift cards
Snacks for ship-Jerkey, Laffy Taffy, Powdered drink mix (indiv bottle size), Dunkin Donuts coffee, individual ketchup/bbq sauce packets, Easy Mac, Tide wash pellets, Monster drinks
He will need phone cards again, but we're not sure exactly what yet, MONEY FOR THIS WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED BY HIS WIFE :-)
Ellison-
Money for her savings account
Size 4 Pampers Diapers
Savings bonds
http://amzn.com/w/18LIELRP0F9EK
Lillian-
16inch bicycle with training wheels and a helmet. No characters please. She has requested a basket and a doll seat.
Books, CDs and Movies that are on her Amazon wish list
itunes gift card
Savings bonds
Monday, November 28, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Ellison's 6 month
Ellison had her six month appointment today, at 11am on 11-11-11 :-)
She weighs 15lbs 4oz(45%), is 26inches tall (60%) and her head is 42.2cm (50%).
Her torticollis is looking better. Her GI issues are the same, some improvement but still there. She is sleeping approx 3hrs at a time, and eating bottles of 4oz at a time with 2tbsp cereal in it. She has just started solids.
She is wearing size 2 shoes and is varied in her clothes. Some 6m pants and dresses and 6-9 or 9m clothes.
Yesterday, on her six month "birthday" she started getting up on all fours, rocking back and forth. It won't be long and she'll be cruising. She is just now, finally, consistently rolling over.
She is still sleeping in the pack and play in our room, its just not worth moving her to her room, when she's still waking up so much at night.
She weighs 15lbs 4oz(45%), is 26inches tall (60%) and her head is 42.2cm (50%).
Her torticollis is looking better. Her GI issues are the same, some improvement but still there. She is sleeping approx 3hrs at a time, and eating bottles of 4oz at a time with 2tbsp cereal in it. She has just started solids.
She is wearing size 2 shoes and is varied in her clothes. Some 6m pants and dresses and 6-9 or 9m clothes.
Yesterday, on her six month "birthday" she started getting up on all fours, rocking back and forth. It won't be long and she'll be cruising. She is just now, finally, consistently rolling over.
She is still sleeping in the pack and play in our room, its just not worth moving her to her room, when she's still waking up so much at night.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Tiny Prints...Big Impressions
I stumbled upon a blog campaign that I was dying to take part in. Tiny Prints has been around for awhile but this year their big push is for their gorgeous holiday cards.
Seriously, they are gorgeous. And there are tons of them. TONS. As in 435. And that is just the holiday cards.
They have all kinds of unique cards...square ones, circle ones with ribbon for hanging like ornaments and even ones that flip.
AND, they are giving me 50 free cards just to tell you about them. So go, check them out. And then tell me which one you think we should get for our Christmas cards this year.
I think my favorite is this one....
Or maybe this one...
But then again, this one is great too...
What do you do with your Christmas cards as they arrive at your house? After the holidays? We tend to tape them around an open doorway in our house. (Not our walls, who cares :-) Lillian usually takes control of them after we take them off the wall. Pretty sure she's still playing "tickets" with some of last years.
Aren't they amazing?!?! Go here and look at them. And, if you have a blog and want some free cards too, go here and fill out the form, by November 11 and send me an email that you did.
Seriously, they are gorgeous. And there are tons of them. TONS. As in 435. And that is just the holiday cards.
They have all kinds of unique cards...square ones, circle ones with ribbon for hanging like ornaments and even ones that flip.
AND, they are giving me 50 free cards just to tell you about them. So go, check them out. And then tell me which one you think we should get for our Christmas cards this year.
I think my favorite is this one....
Or maybe this one...
But then again, this one is great too...
Aren't they amazing?!?! Go here and look at them. And, if you have a blog and want some free cards too, go here and fill out the form, by November 11 and send me an email that you did.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Come visit!!
Who wants to come for Lil's birthday? Southwest is having a 72 hour sale where tickets are only $65 one way from Detroit to Norfolk. AWESOME deal.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Torticollis
Today was Ellison's therapy assessment. The physical therapist, early educator and service coordinator were all here for about two hours.
As we thought, the only two areas she is behind in are the rolling over and the torticollis. However, the rolling over is due to the torticollis. And she is way behind the times in her sleeping habits, but there is unfortunately no therapy for that.
She does have a flat spot on her head and her face is slightly asymetrical, all due to the torticollis.
They did the full assessment though and she is on par or above in all of the other areas of development. Yay!
This was a physical therapist from the office that our therapist will be from, but she is their tester, we will have a regular therapist (same one every week) but it won't be this one. Our regular therapist will show us how to do everything with her: play with her, feed her, carry her, and specific positions for sleeping as well as specific carseat directions.
Because of our measley income, even if insurance refuses to pay, our monthly deductible for any/all services is ZERO!
The first therapy appointment will be in approximately 2 weeks.
Our plan is to do therapy only one time a week (yay-only once!) for a year, finishing next September. Our goal for September is that she can run outside, holding her head up straight, for 50 feet, 5 days a week. We also had to set some shorter term goals.
For January, to be able to turn her head as far to the left as she can the right.
For April, to be able to roll from her tummy to her back, in both directions (hard for torticollis babies).
For June, to be able to sit up on her own, holding her head straight up.
As we thought, the only two areas she is behind in are the rolling over and the torticollis. However, the rolling over is due to the torticollis. And she is way behind the times in her sleeping habits, but there is unfortunately no therapy for that.
She does have a flat spot on her head and her face is slightly asymetrical, all due to the torticollis.
They did the full assessment though and she is on par or above in all of the other areas of development. Yay!
This was a physical therapist from the office that our therapist will be from, but she is their tester, we will have a regular therapist (same one every week) but it won't be this one. Our regular therapist will show us how to do everything with her: play with her, feed her, carry her, and specific positions for sleeping as well as specific carseat directions.
Because of our measley income, even if insurance refuses to pay, our monthly deductible for any/all services is ZERO!
The first therapy appointment will be in approximately 2 weeks.
Our plan is to do therapy only one time a week (yay-only once!) for a year, finishing next September. Our goal for September is that she can run outside, holding her head up straight, for 50 feet, 5 days a week. We also had to set some shorter term goals.
For January, to be able to turn her head as far to the left as she can the right.
For April, to be able to roll from her tummy to her back, in both directions (hard for torticollis babies).
For June, to be able to sit up on her own, holding her head straight up.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Project Lists
Here is the project list I made last month, and my updates so far...
I have a bunch of projects/tasks that I want to get done before New Year's this year, so I thought I would list them here, to remind me, to keep track and for accountability.
1. Sort Lil's "artwork drawer" and pick save pieces and chuck rest.
2. Purge file cabinet
3.Scan contents of wallets and important documents again Thanks, Irene, for pushing me on that
4. Sell Bjorn on craigslist Listed for 3 time
5.Sell Avent bottles on craigslist Removed from list, as she's actually using them now
6. Catch up on reading magazines
7. Decide on party themes for both girls 2012
8. Decide 2012 living plan huh...wonder what I meant by this?
9. Plan 2012 travel
10. Put more towards retirement Have the money, now need to set up direct deposits for additional amounts
11. Lose baby weight...from Lil was going good, til stinkin irene, and house chaos
12.Order Bible curriculum Done, and using it, and loving it.
13.Do homeschool program with Lil at least 3 days a week 5 days a week so far, excluding irene evac days
14. Continue photo a day for at least 1 year.
15.Print Ellison's newborn photos Done! And put in frames tonight!
16. Re-do frames in house
17. Do silhouettes of both girls (possibly on silhouette machine?)
18. Figure out handprint project for this year
19. MORE videos of the girls Video'd Lil saying her A Bible verse and an "interview" and ellie babbling, but not crossing it off, because I want to remember to do more.
20. Start MOPS Kind of...went to one, but it was a little "spirited" for my tastes, planning to try another one next week right before I get on the plane.
21. Plan a STINKIN AWESOME vacation for 2013 Nope, and looks like it will need to be 2014, but we did plan a fun vacation for this November, with the girls to Florida!
22.Open Ellie's bank acct Done, and with $250 even.
I think we did kinda awesome so far.
And some longer term ones (by December 2012)
1. Learn photoshop
2. Learn how to use my silhouette machine
3. Teach Lil to tie her shoes
4. Lillian: know all letter sounds, write all letters on command
5. Have all stacey's old pics scanned into computer
6. Decide on school plan for Lillian
7. Ellison-no plug
8. Ellison-in real bed (possibly)
9. Lil in one extra curricular
I have a bunch of projects/tasks that I want to get done before New Year's this year, so I thought I would list them here, to remind me, to keep track and for accountability.
1.
2
3.
4. Sell Bjorn on craigslist Listed for 3 time
5.
6. Catch up on reading magazines
7. Decide on party themes for both girls 2012
8. Decide 2012 living plan huh...wonder what I meant by this?
9. Plan 2012 travel
10. Put more towards retirement Have the money, now need to set up direct deposits for additional amounts
11. Lose baby weight...from Lil was going good, til stinkin irene, and house chaos
12.
13.
14. Continue photo a day for at least 1 year.
15.
16. R
17. Do silhouettes of both girls (possibly on silhouette machine?)
18. Figure out handprint project for this year
19. MORE videos of the girls Video'd Lil saying her A Bible verse and an "interview" and ellie babbling, but not crossing it off, because I want to remember to do more.
20. Start MOPS Kind of...went to one, but it was a little "spirited" for my tastes, planning to try another one next week right before I get on the plane.
21. Plan a STINKIN AWESOME vacation for 2013 Nope, and looks like it will need to be 2014, but we did plan a fun vacation for this November, with the girls to Florida!
22.
I think we did kinda awesome so far.
And some longer term ones (by December 2012)
1. Learn photoshop
2. Learn how to use my silhouette machine
3. Teach Lil to tie her shoes
4. Lillian: know all letter sounds, write all letters on command
5. Have all stacey's old pics scanned into computer
6. Decide on school plan for Lillian
7. Ellison-no plug
8. Ellison-in real bed (possibly)
9. Lil in one extra curricular
Ellie's GI
Today I took Ellison to the GI specialist. She asked a million questions and we were there for-ev-er. But, she seemed really knowledgeable and I was over all impressed. She upped the dosage and constitution of the medicine she was on, said we will try this dosage for a month and if its not improved, we will switch to another medication. There is a third medication we can give in addition to either of these two, but that is three times a day and cannot be done at either of the same times as the two times a day now, so we would all like to avoid that. We were able to have the medicine compounded at the hospital pharmacy and THANKFULLY for any refills, they will deliver them to our house, free of charge!
She wanted to more than double the cereal that is going in her bottles, but said the formula she is on should be the best for her. She said we need to drop from 6oz at a time, down to 4oz. And it should take no less than 20 mins to feed her that 4oz, so if we have to stop after 2 oz for a break, or burp after every oz, do so. Then, she has to be upright for 30 mins (the same as we were doing). Let me say, the 4oz over 20 mins really peeved off Miss Ellie today.
She ordered an abdominal ultrasound and that will be done tomorrow (Friday) afternoon at one of their satellite locations. (Ellison had an upper GI and stomach x-ray done at the hospital at birth and this GI has those records).
She said she wants to see her back in a month to check her growth rate (weight is okay now, but she wants to make sure rate of gain is okay). Our main goal is to stop the choking, the thru the nose bit and the fussiness/not sleeping. The spit up, while annoying, isn't a concern if she's gaining weight and there's no blood/green involved, so if we can get the other things better, that's all we need to do.
She noticed and mentioned the Torticollis before I did and said she was very concerned about that. Hopefully we can get therapy started for that and get that under control ASAP.
She wanted to more than double the cereal that is going in her bottles, but said the formula she is on should be the best for her. She said we need to drop from 6oz at a time, down to 4oz. And it should take no less than 20 mins to feed her that 4oz, so if we have to stop after 2 oz for a break, or burp after every oz, do so. Then, she has to be upright for 30 mins (the same as we were doing). Let me say, the 4oz over 20 mins really peeved off Miss Ellie today.
She ordered an abdominal ultrasound and that will be done tomorrow (Friday) afternoon at one of their satellite locations. (Ellison had an upper GI and stomach x-ray done at the hospital at birth and this GI has those records).
She said she wants to see her back in a month to check her growth rate (weight is okay now, but she wants to make sure rate of gain is okay). Our main goal is to stop the choking, the thru the nose bit and the fussiness/not sleeping. The spit up, while annoying, isn't a concern if she's gaining weight and there's no blood/green involved, so if we can get the other things better, that's all we need to do.
She noticed and mentioned the Torticollis before I did and said she was very concerned about that. Hopefully we can get therapy started for that and get that under control ASAP.
Ellison was diagnosed with Torticollis last week. Basically that means that her head is tilted one way and she only turns it the opposite way. Her head can be turned the other way, but she can't do it herself. And she can't hold it up straight. Obviously, this is a problem. The solution is physical therapy-two to three times a week for up to a year. Thankfully, it looks like we will be able to have the therapy done here at our house, which would be a HUGE help, as Richard will be gone a lot over the next year. There is a SLIM chance that she would still need surgery at the end of this, but we're hoping the intensive therapy fixes it.
Monday, September 5, 2011
2011 Wish Lists
Edited most recently on November 30 with all the information I (Stacey) currently have, taking off things that I know people are getting. Obviously, if you are looking at my list, you will have to check with Richard.
If you are reading this in your email...this is just a begining list, I will be constantly adding and editing it. Before you buy something, please go to the blog and check the most recent list.
I do still have Amazon lists for each of us. Staceys, Lillians and Ellisons. Richard always buys everything he ever wants, so good luck with that.
2011 Christmas Lists
Whole Family-
Regal Cinemas Gift Card
4-6 new pillows, regular size
Fake Christmas Tree
Red and White or just/mostly white ornaments
Four Red and White Stockings, preferably personalized
Stacey-
Gift cards for: itunes, Amazon and Southwest Airlines
Mercy by Jodi Piccoult in Paperback
Remote, Lens Hood and UV filter for my camera, Canon Rebel xsi (links on my amazon list)
iphone dock/speaker for the house (any one will work, with the below dock xtender)
DockXtender basic cable to connect phone to dock $15
Christmas Light Bulb Cookie Cutter $5
Food Markers $16
Slippers
2 "Bento" Dinner Plates 9.5" square $5, 1 Rectangular platter $10 and 1 "Soup Bowl" 5.5" square $3 from cb2.com
Scattegories Game
G-Spout $5
Kitchen Aid Pouring Shield $12
Kitchen Aid FPPA Mixer Attachment Pack $118
Richard-
itunes gift cards
Texas Roadhouse gift cards
Snacks for ship-Jerkey, Laffy Taffy, Powdered drink mix (indiv bottle size), Dunkin Donuts coffee, individual ketchup/bbq sauce packets, Easy Mac, Tide wash pellets, Monster drinks
He will need phone cards again, but we're not sure exactly what yet
Nano Habitat Set $20 and some Nano bugs
xbox 360 Kinect Bundle $300 (don't all run get it at once now)
Gift Card to Cheesecake Factory
Chevy Camaro SS with supercharge package, convertible (not to include Matchbox or Hot Wheels)
Ellison-
Money for her savings account
Rody Horse-Any color $40
VTech Sit to Stand Learning Walker $32
Leapfrog My Pal Violet $21
Two 12 month long sleeve dresses
Two 12 month short sleeve shirts-any kind
Two 12 month short sleeve shirts that go with cream leggings
12m Long Sleeve onesie in plain light pink-NOT turtleneck
1 pr short sleeve pjs 12m
Size 3 pampers diapers
Huggies Wipes
Savings bonds
Lillian-
Tag Reader (NOT Tag Jr.) $30ish
Balance bike $45
Toy Vaccuum $40
Dress up clothes size 6...not accessories, but she has outgrown most of her outfits
Doctor case $25
Tangrams $11 and pattern cards $5
One 5T long sleeve dress
Books, CDs and Movies that are on her Amazon wish list
itunes gift card
Savings bonds
Shoes-size 11, any style except white dress shoes and tennis shoes
5T sweatshirt hoodie (no zipper)
5T button up sweater-dk. pink, white
5T swimsuit in Purple/White or Teal/White
2 pair short sleeve PJs 5T-Loose arms and legs
2 pair jean shorts 5T
1pr 5T shorts, with a dark pink pattern (stripes, plaid, polka dots, flowers...)
2 long sleeve 5T shirts-any color/style
1 long sleeve 5T shirt-tunic style to go with dark pink leggings
2012 Christmas Lists
Lillian-
Twin Size Duvet Insert
Twin Bed
Ellison-
Twin Size Duvet Insert
Twin Size Mattress Set
Twin Bed
If you are reading this in your email...this is just a begining list, I will be constantly adding and editing it. Before you buy something, please go to the blog and check the most recent list.
I do still have Amazon lists for each of us. Staceys, Lillians and Ellisons. Richard always buys everything he ever wants, so good luck with that.
2011 Christmas Lists
Whole Family-
Regal Cinemas Gift Card
4-6 new pillows, regular size
Fake Christmas Tree
Red and White or just/mostly white ornaments
Four Red and White Stockings, preferably personalized
Stacey-
Gift cards for: itunes, Amazon and Southwest Airlines
Mercy by Jodi Piccoult in Paperback
Remote, Lens Hood and UV filter for my camera, Canon Rebel xsi (links on my amazon list)
iphone dock/speaker for the house (any one will work, with the below dock xtender)
DockXtender basic cable to connect phone to dock $15
Christmas Light Bulb Cookie Cutter $5
Food Markers $16
Slippers
2 "Bento" Dinner Plates 9.5" square $5, 1 Rectangular platter $10 and 1 "Soup Bowl" 5.5" square $3 from cb2.com
Scattegories Game
G-Spout $5
Kitchen Aid Pouring Shield $12
Kitchen Aid FPPA Mixer Attachment Pack $118
Richard-
itunes gift cards
Texas Roadhouse gift cards
Snacks for ship-Jerkey, Laffy Taffy, Powdered drink mix (indiv bottle size), Dunkin Donuts coffee, individual ketchup/bbq sauce packets, Easy Mac, Tide wash pellets, Monster drinks
He will need phone cards again, but we're not sure exactly what yet
Nano Habitat Set $20 and some Nano bugs
xbox 360 Kinect Bundle $300 (don't all run get it at once now)
Gift Card to Cheesecake Factory
Chevy Camaro SS with supercharge package, convertible (not to include Matchbox or Hot Wheels)
Ellison-
Money for her savings account
Rody Horse-Any color $40
VTech Sit to Stand Learning Walker $32
Leapfrog My Pal Violet $21
Two 12 month long sleeve dresses
Two 12 month short sleeve shirts-any kind
Two 12 month short sleeve shirts that go with cream leggings
12m Long Sleeve onesie in plain light pink-NOT turtleneck
1 pr short sleeve pjs 12m
Size 3 pampers diapers
Huggies Wipes
Savings bonds
Lillian-
Tag Reader (NOT Tag Jr.) $30ish
Balance bike $45
Toy Vaccuum $40
Dress up clothes size 6...not accessories, but she has outgrown most of her outfits
Doctor case $25
Tangrams $11 and pattern cards $5
One 5T long sleeve dress
Books, CDs and Movies that are on her Amazon wish list
itunes gift card
Savings bonds
Shoes-size 11, any style except white dress shoes and tennis shoes
5T sweatshirt hoodie (no zipper)
5T button up sweater-dk. pink, white
5T swimsuit in Purple/White or Teal/White
2 pair short sleeve PJs 5T-Loose arms and legs
2 pair jean shorts 5T
1pr 5T shorts, with a dark pink pattern (stripes, plaid, polka dots, flowers...)
2 long sleeve 5T shirts-any color/style
1 long sleeve 5T shirt-tunic style to go with dark pink leggings
2012 Christmas Lists
Lillian-
Twin Size Duvet Insert
Twin Bed
Ellison-
Twin Size Duvet Insert
Twin Size Mattress Set
Twin Bed
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Project List
I have a bunch of projects/tasks that I want to get done before New Year's this year, so I thought I would list them here, to remind me, to keep track and for accountability.
1. Sort Lil's "artwork drawer" and pick save pieces and chuck rest.
2. Purge file cabinet
3. Scan contents of wallets and important documents again
4. Sell Bjorn on craigslist
5. Sell Avent bottles on craigslist
6. Catch up on reading magazines
7. Decide on party themes for both girls 2012
8. Decide 2012 living plan
9. Plan 2012 travel
10. Put more towards retirement
11. Lose baby weight...from Lil
12. Order Bible curriculum
13. Do homeschool program with Lil at least 3 days a week
14. Continue photo a day for at least 1 year.
15. Print Ellison's newborn photos
16. Re-do frames in house
17. Do silhouettes of both girls (possibly on silhouette machine?)
18. Figure out handprint project for this year
19. MORE videos of the girls
20. Start MOPS
21. Plan a STINKIN AWESOME vacation for 2013
22. Open Ellie's bank acct
And some longer term ones (by December 2012)
1. Learn photoshop
2. Learn how to use my silhouette machine
3. Teach Lil to tie her shoes
4. Lillian: know all letter sounds, write all letters on command
5. Have all stacey's old pics scanned into computer
6. Decide on school plan for Lillian
7. Ellison-no plug
8. Ellison-in real bed (possibly)
9. Lil in one extra curricular
1. Sort Lil's "artwork drawer" and pick save pieces and chuck rest.
2. Purge file cabinet
3. Scan contents of wallets and important documents again
4. Sell Bjorn on craigslist
5. Sell Avent bottles on craigslist
6. Catch up on reading magazines
7. Decide on party themes for both girls 2012
8. Decide 2012 living plan
9. Plan 2012 travel
10. Put more towards retirement
11. Lose baby weight...from Lil
12. Order Bible curriculum
13. Do homeschool program with Lil at least 3 days a week
14. Continue photo a day for at least 1 year.
15. Print Ellison's newborn photos
16. Re-do frames in house
17. Do silhouettes of both girls (possibly on silhouette machine?)
18. Figure out handprint project for this year
19. MORE videos of the girls
20. Start MOPS
21. Plan a STINKIN AWESOME vacation for 2013
22. Open Ellie's bank acct
And some longer term ones (by December 2012)
1. Learn photoshop
2. Learn how to use my silhouette machine
3. Teach Lil to tie her shoes
4. Lillian: know all letter sounds, write all letters on command
5. Have all stacey's old pics scanned into computer
6. Decide on school plan for Lillian
7. Ellison-no plug
8. Ellison-in real bed (possibly)
9. Lil in one extra curricular
Monday, August 15, 2011
Clothes for the Girls
Anyone who is wanting to get the girls stuff just for fun or who are already thinking about Christmas, there are lots of outfits that are on sale right now that we would like for them:
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT<>prd_id=845524445999853&FOLDER<>folder_id=2534374306231106&ASSORTMENT<>ast_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434924 In 5T for Lil and 18-24m for Ellie.
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445999848&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302775613&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434505567&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 5T for Lil and 12-18m for Ellie
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446000573&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302775613&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434478140&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 6-12 for Ellie (if this is not until Christmas they will need bigger sizes, ask me)
http://www.crazy8.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445992120&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302774893&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313435229658&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 12-18m for Ellie.
http://www.crazy8.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445991500&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302774893&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313435229665&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 6-12 months for Ellie (if this is not until Christmas they will need bigger sizes, ask me)
http://www.carters.com/null/3-Tiered-Skort/702371423258,default,pd.html?cgid=oshkosh-baby-girl-sale
5T for Lil, 18m for Ellie.
http://www.carters.com/null/Ruffle-Neck-Tunic/702371423852,default,pd.html?cgid=oshkosh-baby-girl-sale
5T for Lil, 18m for Ellie
http://www.carters.com/carters/Long-Sleeve-Graphic-Tee/V_253A039,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-toddler-girl-fall-sale for Lillian in 5t and http://www.carters.com/carters/Long-Sleeve-Graphic-Tee/V_235A112,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-baby-girl-fall-sale for Ellie in 18m
http://www.carters.com/null/Long-Sleeve-Tunic/714442068558,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-toddler-girl-fall-sale for Lil in 5t, none for Ellie
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT<>prd_id=845524445999853&FOLDER<>folder_id=2534374306231106&ASSORTMENT<>ast_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434924 In 5T for Lil and 18-24m for Ellie.
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445999848&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302775613&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434505567&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 5T for Lil and 12-18m for Ellie
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446000573&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302775613&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313434478140&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 6-12 for Ellie (if this is not until Christmas they will need bigger sizes, ask me)
http://www.crazy8.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445992120&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302774893&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313435229658&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 12-18m for Ellie.
http://www.crazy8.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445991500&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302774893&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1313435229665&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type= In 4T for Lil and 6-12 months for Ellie (if this is not until Christmas they will need bigger sizes, ask me)
http://www.carters.com/null/3-Tiered-Skort/702371423258,default,pd.html?cgid=oshkosh-baby-girl-sale
5T for Lil, 18m for Ellie.
http://www.carters.com/null/Ruffle-Neck-Tunic/702371423852,default,pd.html?cgid=oshkosh-baby-girl-sale
5T for Lil, 18m for Ellie
http://www.carters.com/carters/Long-Sleeve-Graphic-Tee/V_253A039,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-toddler-girl-fall-sale for Lillian in 5t and http://www.carters.com/carters/Long-Sleeve-Graphic-Tee/V_235A112,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-baby-girl-fall-sale for Ellie in 18m
http://www.carters.com/null/Long-Sleeve-Tunic/714442068558,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-toddler-girl-fall-sale for Lil in 5t, none for Ellie
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
I haven't written in forever. Because my hands have been numb forever. The cyst on my right wrist plus pregnancy carpal tunnel plus swelling equals not being able to do much of anything.
Thankfully, mom comes tomorrow. Then, R's family comes, then my aunt comes. So...hopefully by that time this little thing will be OUT and I'll be back to semi-normal.
But I wanted to write this week-Monday actually, but that didn't happen. So here I am. I'm not going to go into all the details because I don't wanna type it all, but here's the gyst.
Thew new OB's office, who answered all my questions at the begining "correctly" is now changing their story and driving me insane in about a million different ways.
I have a broken pelvis. Its supposed to be 2-4mm apart, and can get up to 10-11mm apart in pregnancy. Mine was 2.5 cm when they first discovered it and it was 4.5cm a week and a half ago.
The orthopedic surgeon said if I don't have Baby by Saturday I will be guaranteed to have to have pelvic reconstruction surgery this summer (while R's gone, with a 10-12 week recovery period.)
OB says they don't care, they're not scheduling anything til May 9 (39+weeks).
I have been "in labor" for two weeks now, with contractions 4 mins apart, and starting to dialate. We have gone to the hospital for pain/contractions, not feeling her move for hours at a time and leaking fluid. Each time the OB has sent us home. Sometimes to the dismay of the nurse who is actually in the room with us.
I have started the HORRID swelling (many people say its the worst they've ever seen), headaches, blurry vision, nausea, dizzyness, etc that is indicative of Pre-Eclampsia (also called PIH or Toxemia).
My blood pressure is much higher than my normal, but not in the overall "danger high" category so the OBs say they will not deliver me before 39 weeks. But also that they "wont's stop labor" after 36 weeks.
I fell at home this morning, just because I was so dizzy and my elephant legs and broken pelvis couldn't move fast enough to sit down before I fell. I fell on my hip. The OB's office said they didn't want to see me unless she wasn't moving. She was/is. The orthopedic surgeon said he wanted to see me right away, and said miraculously, although very painful and still potentially harmful, I actually kind of "hammered" my pelvis back together some, as it was between 4.5-5cm apart and is now between 2.5-3cm apart. He does not know if this will impact the need for surgery or not, as we just have to wait and see how it heals/doesn't heal after surgery.
I turn 36 weeks on Saturday. Mom will be here to babysit. R will have the day off. So...if I make it that long without anything else happening, our plan is to eat "magic cupcakes", walk, eat pineapple and spicy food, and head into the hospital and make a royal pain of ourselves, with the intent not to leave without a baby.
Please pray that they would be able to take her out safely and quickly on Saturday and that she will be healthy. I'm praying htey take her out before I have a stroke from Pre-E, have any more falls/issues, and before I need pelvic reconstructive surgery.
Please pray.
Thankfully, mom comes tomorrow. Then, R's family comes, then my aunt comes. So...hopefully by that time this little thing will be OUT and I'll be back to semi-normal.
But I wanted to write this week-Monday actually, but that didn't happen. So here I am. I'm not going to go into all the details because I don't wanna type it all, but here's the gyst.
Thew new OB's office, who answered all my questions at the begining "correctly" is now changing their story and driving me insane in about a million different ways.
I have a broken pelvis. Its supposed to be 2-4mm apart, and can get up to 10-11mm apart in pregnancy. Mine was 2.5 cm when they first discovered it and it was 4.5cm a week and a half ago.
The orthopedic surgeon said if I don't have Baby by Saturday I will be guaranteed to have to have pelvic reconstruction surgery this summer (while R's gone, with a 10-12 week recovery period.)
OB says they don't care, they're not scheduling anything til May 9 (39+weeks).
I have been "in labor" for two weeks now, with contractions 4 mins apart, and starting to dialate. We have gone to the hospital for pain/contractions, not feeling her move for hours at a time and leaking fluid. Each time the OB has sent us home. Sometimes to the dismay of the nurse who is actually in the room with us.
I have started the HORRID swelling (many people say its the worst they've ever seen), headaches, blurry vision, nausea, dizzyness, etc that is indicative of Pre-Eclampsia (also called PIH or Toxemia).
My blood pressure is much higher than my normal, but not in the overall "danger high" category so the OBs say they will not deliver me before 39 weeks. But also that they "wont's stop labor" after 36 weeks.
I fell at home this morning, just because I was so dizzy and my elephant legs and broken pelvis couldn't move fast enough to sit down before I fell. I fell on my hip. The OB's office said they didn't want to see me unless she wasn't moving. She was/is. The orthopedic surgeon said he wanted to see me right away, and said miraculously, although very painful and still potentially harmful, I actually kind of "hammered" my pelvis back together some, as it was between 4.5-5cm apart and is now between 2.5-3cm apart. He does not know if this will impact the need for surgery or not, as we just have to wait and see how it heals/doesn't heal after surgery.
I turn 36 weeks on Saturday. Mom will be here to babysit. R will have the day off. So...if I make it that long without anything else happening, our plan is to eat "magic cupcakes", walk, eat pineapple and spicy food, and head into the hospital and make a royal pain of ourselves, with the intent not to leave without a baby.
Please pray that they would be able to take her out safely and quickly on Saturday and that she will be healthy. I'm praying htey take her out before I have a stroke from Pre-E, have any more falls/issues, and before I need pelvic reconstructive surgery.
Please pray.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
This has been a rough week. I ask for your prayers on behalf of two friends.
The family I babysat for (Kylie's parents) had a little boy in late November, Micah. Micah went into the hospital here last week with Pneumonia. He was put in ICU almost immediately and pretty quickly had to be medically paralyzed. On Sunday they found out that he has Cardiomyopathy. They life flighted him to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Tuesday morning to meet with the best pediatric cardiologists in the nation. They all arrived safely yesterday and he is to undergo a heart cath today to try to get some more answers and more direction, but as of right now he is on the heart transplant waiting list. As a big blessing, Micah is covered under Tricare Prime, which means they should not have ANY hospital expenses throughout this whole thing, a huge praise. BUT they are unsure yet if they are able to get into the Ronald McDonald house, have already had gas and airfare expenses and of course will have food expenses. They are expecting to be there at least a couple months.
Additionally, there is a family, the Rider's, who I met online because they had a little boy, Lincoln, the same month as Lillian. We started our pregnancies on the same mom's board and have continued until today. Unfortunately, God needed little Lincoln and he only lived for two and a half months, before dying because of a still mysterious illness. Two weeks ago Summer (the mom) had a little girl, Claire. They had some blood tests come back abnormal and had to go to the Children's Hospital for follow up. They were hesitant to even do that, since they hadn't been to Children's since Lincoln died there. They had the tests yesterday and got the results last night. They are heartbroken to learn that Sweet Claire has cystic fibrosis.
Please keep these two families in your thoughts and prayers over the next weeks, months and years as they battle these two diseases. And go hug your healthy family and be so thankful.
The family I babysat for (Kylie's parents) had a little boy in late November, Micah. Micah went into the hospital here last week with Pneumonia. He was put in ICU almost immediately and pretty quickly had to be medically paralyzed. On Sunday they found out that he has Cardiomyopathy. They life flighted him to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Tuesday morning to meet with the best pediatric cardiologists in the nation. They all arrived safely yesterday and he is to undergo a heart cath today to try to get some more answers and more direction, but as of right now he is on the heart transplant waiting list. As a big blessing, Micah is covered under Tricare Prime, which means they should not have ANY hospital expenses throughout this whole thing, a huge praise. BUT they are unsure yet if they are able to get into the Ronald McDonald house, have already had gas and airfare expenses and of course will have food expenses. They are expecting to be there at least a couple months.
Additionally, there is a family, the Rider's, who I met online because they had a little boy, Lincoln, the same month as Lillian. We started our pregnancies on the same mom's board and have continued until today. Unfortunately, God needed little Lincoln and he only lived for two and a half months, before dying because of a still mysterious illness. Two weeks ago Summer (the mom) had a little girl, Claire. They had some blood tests come back abnormal and had to go to the Children's Hospital for follow up. They were hesitant to even do that, since they hadn't been to Children's since Lincoln died there. They had the tests yesterday and got the results last night. They are heartbroken to learn that Sweet Claire has cystic fibrosis.
Please keep these two families in your thoughts and prayers over the next weeks, months and years as they battle these two diseases. And go hug your healthy family and be so thankful.
Friday, March 4, 2011
New phone
I have a new phone and now I can post a new blog entry from it :-)
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.7
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
praying for: me to naturally go into labor in april, before the 22nd, avoiding the 5 days before that R will be gone
wearing: shirt and yoga pants that don't matchworking on: the checkbook
eating: graham crackers and frosting
dreaming of: visitors
realizing: the next two years are going to be looooooooooong
impatiently waiting: for 5pm tomorrow
anticipating: holding our sweet little baby, outside my stomach
loving: the sunshine
stalking: our bank account, waiting for our tax return to show up
feeling: blessed, lonely, and a bit bored
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tupperware
I am having a Tupperware party. Its March 10. But if you're not local and still want to order, you can. I have been seeing some of their new stuff, and wanting some of the older stuff that my mom and grandma have, and decided to just have a party. If you want to look at their stuff, and maybe order, send me your email address and I'll send you the link.
Friday, February 18, 2011
What a week, medically
We've had a rough week physically here. Monday I found out that I have a fractured pelvis because this little baby is riding so low that she created a stress fracture. There is nothing they can do about it, other than manage pain-with big, bad Tylenol, until she arrives. The good news is that usually, it doesn't require any further surgery after delivery, because it generally starts healing itself.
On Tuesday night my right ear started hurting. By Wednesday morning, my left ear started hurting also and I called the doctor. I went in and she said I have an ear infection in each ear and gave me Ammoxicillin. Wednesday night, after we went to bed, I was having excruciating pain and we had to go to the hospital. I had an "on fire" eardrum they were very concerned about and said my right ear was now also an outer ear infection. And the pain was starting to cause contractions. So...they told me to continue the Ammox. as well as antibiotic ear drops and Tylenol for pain. I'm gonna buy stock in Tylenol. It has started to get better. Not good by any means, but not the horrible pain at least. They are going to refer me to an ENT.
Tuesday morning, Richard broke a tooth and got a temporary sealant. They were able to get him in on Thursday and get the final fix done, as well as fill a cavity he had.
Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday we noticed fluid in Lillian's left ear. We took her to the doctor yesterday and she also has an ear infection in both ears, and an outer ear infection in her left ear. Thankfully, she seems (and says) she is in no pain, no fever, and has no hearing loss...I'm jealous. We go back for a checkup in two weeks, and will probably get another referral to the ENT at that time.
Whew....now, hoping that we all stay at least as healthy as we are now, we are off for a weekend of fun. This will be our last time for a "getaway" before the baby comes and before Richard starts deploying. Lillian is staying with a great friend of ours and they have a whole weekend of fun planned. Richard and I are going to Williamsburg for the weekend and have plans to do an evening "ghost tour" (we're unsure, but its been highly recommended) and we are also going to go to the Yankee Candle Flagship store, which apparently has Santa and snow every day.
Pray we stay healthy. And that just AS SOON AS this little girl is ready and fully healthy, she comes out so that my silly pelvis can start healing.
On Tuesday night my right ear started hurting. By Wednesday morning, my left ear started hurting also and I called the doctor. I went in and she said I have an ear infection in each ear and gave me Ammoxicillin. Wednesday night, after we went to bed, I was having excruciating pain and we had to go to the hospital. I had an "on fire" eardrum they were very concerned about and said my right ear was now also an outer ear infection. And the pain was starting to cause contractions. So...they told me to continue the Ammox. as well as antibiotic ear drops and Tylenol for pain. I'm gonna buy stock in Tylenol. It has started to get better. Not good by any means, but not the horrible pain at least. They are going to refer me to an ENT.
Tuesday morning, Richard broke a tooth and got a temporary sealant. They were able to get him in on Thursday and get the final fix done, as well as fill a cavity he had.
Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday we noticed fluid in Lillian's left ear. We took her to the doctor yesterday and she also has an ear infection in both ears, and an outer ear infection in her left ear. Thankfully, she seems (and says) she is in no pain, no fever, and has no hearing loss...I'm jealous. We go back for a checkup in two weeks, and will probably get another referral to the ENT at that time.
Whew....now, hoping that we all stay at least as healthy as we are now, we are off for a weekend of fun. This will be our last time for a "getaway" before the baby comes and before Richard starts deploying. Lillian is staying with a great friend of ours and they have a whole weekend of fun planned. Richard and I are going to Williamsburg for the weekend and have plans to do an evening "ghost tour" (we're unsure, but its been highly recommended) and we are also going to go to the Yankee Candle Flagship store, which apparently has Santa and snow every day.
Pray we stay healthy. And that just AS SOON AS this little girl is ready and fully healthy, she comes out so that my silly pelvis can start healing.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
We're only four weeks away from my "comfort zone" which is good...considering this little girl wants out.
This has been an eventful week. I found out I was not imagining the horrible pain I was in, I truly have a broken pelvis. And its "one of the worst [he's] seen"...in true form for our family. Today I also went in, and now have a double ear infection and possibly strep.
I'm taking Lillian in tomorrow, for a possible ear infection.
YAY!!
In other news, I've been getting bugged to update our baby wishlist. I have updated that one as well as mine and Lil's (after her birthday presents). All the links at the top of this page should take you directly to an Amazon wishlist now. If it doesn't, please let me know. Also, if you have trouble figuring out the Amazon wishlist, please let me know.
This has been an eventful week. I found out I was not imagining the horrible pain I was in, I truly have a broken pelvis. And its "one of the worst [he's] seen"...in true form for our family. Today I also went in, and now have a double ear infection and possibly strep.
I'm taking Lillian in tomorrow, for a possible ear infection.
YAY!!
In other news, I've been getting bugged to update our baby wishlist. I have updated that one as well as mine and Lil's (after her birthday presents). All the links at the top of this page should take you directly to an Amazon wishlist now. If it doesn't, please let me know. Also, if you have trouble figuring out the Amazon wishlist, please let me know.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
25 week contractions
I've been having pretty strong contractions every 10 minutes since about 4am. They have said that as long as they don't get any stronger or closer together, no need to go to Labor and Delivery. So far they have not gone away but they are not advancing.
Lillian's 3 year "well child" checkup
Lillian was 37 inches and 31 pounds at her well child checkup.
She also has a RAGING case of MRSA. Her worst yet. We're changing a bunch of medicines and habits but if we can't kick this in a week, we will be referred to a dermatologist. Its especially important that this gets taken care of ASAP because I, being pregnant, cannot get it or they will take the baby out asap. Which, at 25 weeks is NO good.
She also has a RAGING case of MRSA. Her worst yet. We're changing a bunch of medicines and habits but if we can't kick this in a week, we will be referred to a dermatologist. Its especially important that this gets taken care of ASAP because I, being pregnant, cannot get it or they will take the baby out asap. Which, at 25 weeks is NO good.
Friday, January 21, 2011
I saw my OB yesterday. Bad news. The hospital he does surgery at has just THIS WEEK changed their policy to state that no way, no how, no sir can you get a 2nd time c-section scheduled for any earlier than 39 weeks. This is especially problematic for us since my 39 week mark is a Saturday, and of course they don't schedule c-sections for Saturdays or Sundays, AND on Monday, Richard is gone-for 10 days. SO...we were hoping for the Thursday before-when I would be 38w5d. The hospital will make no exception.
All it would take is my doctor moving up my due date by two days. But no go. Grumpy old man. Refuses to have a heart and work with me.
Two freakin days people. We're not even talking half a week.
And, its not like anyone thinks I will go that long anyways, but if by chance I do, I'm not having Richard miss it by TWO DAYS.
So....I'm now on the hunt for a new OB, that practices at a different hospital. This hospital, I'm told, by a Labor & Delivery nurse has a policy that "elective c-sections" cannot be scheduled for any earlier than 39 weeks, BUT if you have any medical issue, it can be scheduled earlier than that. She said I should have no problem getting an OB to schedule me for 38w5d there.
However, I have had problems finding OBs who are a) taking new patients, b) taking new patients who are farther than 20 weeks along or c) taking new patients who are "high risk". UGHHHHH
But, I do have an appointment with one, who MIGHT take me, but not until February 7th, which seems like ages away.
I do still have two on my list to try calling on Monday as I couldn't get ahold of them today.
So..................ya'll could be praying about that if ya would.
And as long as we're being specific, if baby comes early, April 19th would be the ideal date. Not A DAY earlier, not 5 days later. Or April 5-12. But thats even a little early for my wishing comfort.
All it would take is my doctor moving up my due date by two days. But no go. Grumpy old man. Refuses to have a heart and work with me.
Two freakin days people. We're not even talking half a week.
And, its not like anyone thinks I will go that long anyways, but if by chance I do, I'm not having Richard miss it by TWO DAYS.
So....I'm now on the hunt for a new OB, that practices at a different hospital. This hospital, I'm told, by a Labor & Delivery nurse has a policy that "elective c-sections" cannot be scheduled for any earlier than 39 weeks, BUT if you have any medical issue, it can be scheduled earlier than that. She said I should have no problem getting an OB to schedule me for 38w5d there.
However, I have had problems finding OBs who are a) taking new patients, b) taking new patients who are farther than 20 weeks along or c) taking new patients who are "high risk". UGHHHHH
But, I do have an appointment with one, who MIGHT take me, but not until February 7th, which seems like ages away.
I do still have two on my list to try calling on Monday as I couldn't get ahold of them today.
So..................ya'll could be praying about that if ya would.
And as long as we're being specific, if baby comes early, April 19th would be the ideal date. Not A DAY earlier, not 5 days later. Or April 5-12. But thats even a little early for my wishing comfort.