As the time for the Stow-away to be born starts to get closer and closer, we are asked somewhat frequently if LM is ready to be a big brother... or if he's excited... or if he's even aware of the fact his life is about to change almost as much as ours is going to again.
On the surface, it would appear that LM hardly really notices any changes in mommy's condition. But, if you were to be a fly on the wall in our house, you'd learn a much different tale. LM is actually pretty stinkin' excited he's going to have a new little brother to spend time playing with.
How do we know this? Well, he takes care not to hurt mommy, but loves to snuggle in mommy's favorite chair. He also, with increasing frequency, kisses the bump, or hugs and snuggles with the bump. Thus far, the Stow-away hasn't kicked or lashed out at him as he's doing this... but it would be totally cute to see his reaction if it did happen.
LM has even started to refer to the bump affectionately as his little brother. It's so precious - I love that he is so aware of the fact he's going to be a big brother soon... and so excited for the responsibilities this new status will hold.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Where Has Time Gone?
This Saturday, our LM turns two. Two! Can you believe it?? It seems like just yesterday, we were welcoming the sweet little bundle into the world and wondering what he'd turn out to be like. Now, WHAMMO... he's turning TWO!
We have affectionately started to call him the "Tornado Monkey" due to his ability to twist and turn on a dime while climbing and jumping off of nearly everything in sight. All the while he's making a mess, we're laughing because he's just so stinkin' cute that you can't get angry.
This child is nothing short of fast paced. He already talks so well... and he knows how to communicate when you don't understand, often taking you to show you what he wants. He is polite... using please, thank you, and you're welcome as often as possible. And he is already doing preschool work at daycare.
We adore this little boy.
Son, as you turn two... and we wrap our heads around the fast pace of your sweet life... we want you to know - no matter what, we love you. We will support you in whatever you do. We are blessed to have such an intelligent, charismatic, and sweet child. Never let anything or anyone change you.
We have affectionately started to call him the "Tornado Monkey" due to his ability to twist and turn on a dime while climbing and jumping off of nearly everything in sight. All the while he's making a mess, we're laughing because he's just so stinkin' cute that you can't get angry.
This child is nothing short of fast paced. He already talks so well... and he knows how to communicate when you don't understand, often taking you to show you what he wants. He is polite... using please, thank you, and you're welcome as often as possible. And he is already doing preschool work at daycare.
We adore this little boy.
Son, as you turn two... and we wrap our heads around the fast pace of your sweet life... we want you to know - no matter what, we love you. We will support you in whatever you do. We are blessed to have such an intelligent, charismatic, and sweet child. Never let anything or anyone change you.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
How Our Lives Have Changed
A baby came home.... nights up, sleep lost, nodding off during meetings.
Baby.
A toddler at home... endless play time, always smiling, forever laughing.
Toddler.
The magic of a child. You never know until you wake up one morning and see one staring up at you with wonder in their eyes.
It's made all the difference.
Baby.
A toddler at home... endless play time, always smiling, forever laughing.
Toddler.
The magic of a child. You never know until you wake up one morning and see one staring up at you with wonder in their eyes.
It's made all the difference.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Toddlers
LM is growing into quite an independent little guy.
He has learned to use connecting words now. It's amazing how quickly he picks up on these skills. He went from "mama, feed kitty" to "mama, i feed the kitty" seemingly overnight. He loves to take care of his animals - he will bring me the dog's food bowl and say "let feed the doggie" and then insist on carrying the bowl to the proper location and putting it back into the holder for the dog. The cat's food requires a little more assistance as he can't reach her bowl, but he will carry her food to the bowl and then dump it out of the scoop into the bowl. He's so proud of his accomplishment.
One of my favorite things is when he "fires" up his toy grill and "cooks" for us. He concentrates so hard on his task and proudly presents you with the plastic food once it's finished. So precious!
He's gotten quite adept at playing with his shape sorter. He will name the colors and shapes as he picks up each piece to sort.
Watching him walk down the stairs is a lot of fun. He immediately goes to the railing and uses it to go down. He's starting to use it for upward treks as well, but he is more unsure of this direction, and often asks for someone to hold his hand when he feels unsteady.
When did he grow up so much?
He has learned to use connecting words now. It's amazing how quickly he picks up on these skills. He went from "mama, feed kitty" to "mama, i feed the kitty" seemingly overnight. He loves to take care of his animals - he will bring me the dog's food bowl and say "let feed the doggie" and then insist on carrying the bowl to the proper location and putting it back into the holder for the dog. The cat's food requires a little more assistance as he can't reach her bowl, but he will carry her food to the bowl and then dump it out of the scoop into the bowl. He's so proud of his accomplishment.
One of my favorite things is when he "fires" up his toy grill and "cooks" for us. He concentrates so hard on his task and proudly presents you with the plastic food once it's finished. So precious!
He's gotten quite adept at playing with his shape sorter. He will name the colors and shapes as he picks up each piece to sort.
Watching him walk down the stairs is a lot of fun. He immediately goes to the railing and uses it to go down. He's starting to use it for upward treks as well, but he is more unsure of this direction, and often asks for someone to hold his hand when he feels unsteady.
When did he grow up so much?
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Confessions
I hereby confess... I have an addiction.
I am addicted to my son.
Before you become a mama... you know you like the idea of children. You dream of being a mama. You even fantasize about what having a child would be like. But this is nothing compared to actually being a mama.
My son wakes up and smiles at me in the morning. He runs his fingers through my hair and says "Hi mama. Nice mama. Love mama." (Sometimes this is accompanied by a kiss and always a cuddle.) Thus every day starts on the right foot.
He never fails to amaze me. He's not even 2 years old and he can hold a conversation with adults. You might not understand every single word he says, but he knows enough to communicate his message. He also knows colors, animals, sign language, part of the alphabet, how to count to 10, and Spanish. He is literally like a sponge.
We go on walks together. You wouldn't think walks with a toddler would be much fun, but they are. He really enjoys walking with mama... and he will point out birds, rocks, vehicles, airplanes, and colors along the road home.
He loves to snuggle at night. His sweet little hands playing with my hair as he cuddles under the quilt and sits on my lap before going to sleep. Whispering "night, night, mama. Love you." before he nods off. Thus, ending every day perfectly.
It's easy to be addicted. He's easy to love.
I am addicted to my son.
Before you become a mama... you know you like the idea of children. You dream of being a mama. You even fantasize about what having a child would be like. But this is nothing compared to actually being a mama.
My son wakes up and smiles at me in the morning. He runs his fingers through my hair and says "Hi mama. Nice mama. Love mama." (Sometimes this is accompanied by a kiss and always a cuddle.) Thus every day starts on the right foot.
He never fails to amaze me. He's not even 2 years old and he can hold a conversation with adults. You might not understand every single word he says, but he knows enough to communicate his message. He also knows colors, animals, sign language, part of the alphabet, how to count to 10, and Spanish. He is literally like a sponge.
We go on walks together. You wouldn't think walks with a toddler would be much fun, but they are. He really enjoys walking with mama... and he will point out birds, rocks, vehicles, airplanes, and colors along the road home.
He loves to snuggle at night. His sweet little hands playing with my hair as he cuddles under the quilt and sits on my lap before going to sleep. Whispering "night, night, mama. Love you." before he nods off. Thus, ending every day perfectly.
It's easy to be addicted. He's easy to love.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Where Has The Time Gone?
We are 4 months away from LM's second birthday. I know! I can't believe it, either!! It seems like I was just snuggling him after his first feeding. Where has the time gone?
He is a sponge. I mean this figuratively... but his brain absorbs so much information, it reminds me of Johnny 5 on the 80's classic Short Circuit. This little guy, in his 20 months, has learned more than most adults learn in their entire adult lives.
He says parts of the ABC's. He's said A,B,C,D,E,F and then tends to skip around.
He counts. He knows how to count from 1-10... but often will stop when he knows someone is listening.
He does animal flash cards.
He can correctly identify animals, vehicle sounds, and the Disney Cruise Lines ship horn.
He correctly identifies Disney characters by name.
He talks... my how he talks. Incessantly.
If you show him different things, he will identify them. He's getting good at this game.
He is a constant blur of motion, much like the Tasmanian Devil... or a tiny tornado.
He uses his imagination better than some children twice his age.
He loves to color.
He is nothing short of amazing. It's actually quite frightening. We have to keep him constantly occupied.
He is also one of the most tender, loving, kind and considerate children I have ever seen. I know he can get into trouble when he gets bored... but that's part of being a child. If you don't keep him occupied, he will find ways to occupy himself (not always ways you approve of).
I'm so proud to call him my son. I love that little monkey.
He is a sponge. I mean this figuratively... but his brain absorbs so much information, it reminds me of Johnny 5 on the 80's classic Short Circuit. This little guy, in his 20 months, has learned more than most adults learn in their entire adult lives.
He says parts of the ABC's. He's said A,B,C,D,E,F and then tends to skip around.
He counts. He knows how to count from 1-10... but often will stop when he knows someone is listening.
He does animal flash cards.
He can correctly identify animals, vehicle sounds, and the Disney Cruise Lines ship horn.
He correctly identifies Disney characters by name.
He talks... my how he talks. Incessantly.
If you show him different things, he will identify them. He's getting good at this game.
He is a constant blur of motion, much like the Tasmanian Devil... or a tiny tornado.
He uses his imagination better than some children twice his age.
He loves to color.
He is nothing short of amazing. It's actually quite frightening. We have to keep him constantly occupied.
He is also one of the most tender, loving, kind and considerate children I have ever seen. I know he can get into trouble when he gets bored... but that's part of being a child. If you don't keep him occupied, he will find ways to occupy himself (not always ways you approve of).
I'm so proud to call him my son. I love that little monkey.
Friday, March 29, 2013
20 Things a Mother Should Tell Her Son
1. Don't ever be a bully and don't ever start a fight. But, if some idiot clocks you, please defend yourself.
2. Take pride in your appearance. It is the first impression others have of you.
3. Don't be afraid to be polite. "Yes ma'am", "yes sir", "please", and "thank you" still go a long way.
4. Peer pressure is a scary thing. Be a good leader and others will follow.
5. Play a sport. It will teach you how to win honorably, lose gracefully, respect authority, work with others,
manage your time, and stay out of trouble. And maybe even to throw or catch.
6. Be comfortable in your faith, sometimes it will be the only thing you have to fall back on in this crazy and
confusing world. Pray when you need to. Remember, God will never turn away.
7. Take careful aim when you pee. Someone has to clean that up, you know.
8. The reason they are called "private parts" is because they're private. Please keep them covered and
refrain from touching or scratching them in public.
9. Be strong and tender at the same time. Know when to listen and when to talk.
10. Allow me to introduce you to the dishwasher, oven, washing machine, iron, vacuum, mop and broom.
Don't ever be ashamed you know how to use them.
11. Your knowledge and education can never be taken away from you.
12. You will set the tone for the sexual relationship. Don't take something away from her you can't give back.
13. A woman can do everything you can do. This includes her having a successful career and you changing
diapers at 3 am. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.
14. Treat women kindly. Forever is a long time to live alone, and it's even longer to live with someone who
hates your guts.
15. Bringing her flowers for no reason is always a good idea.
16. Please choose your spouse wisely. My daughter-in-law will be the gatekeeper for me spending time with
you and my grandchildren.
17. Save money when you're young because you're going to need it some day.
18. Potty humor isn't the only thing that's humorous. There is a fine line between funny and not funny.
Knowing where this line falls is the art of comedy.
19. Be patriotic. In mind, heart and spirit. And, don't forget to thank a soldier every time you get a chance.
20. Remember to call your mother, I might be missing you.
2. Take pride in your appearance. It is the first impression others have of you.
3. Don't be afraid to be polite. "Yes ma'am", "yes sir", "please", and "thank you" still go a long way.
4. Peer pressure is a scary thing. Be a good leader and others will follow.
5. Play a sport. It will teach you how to win honorably, lose gracefully, respect authority, work with others,
manage your time, and stay out of trouble. And maybe even to throw or catch.
6. Be comfortable in your faith, sometimes it will be the only thing you have to fall back on in this crazy and
confusing world. Pray when you need to. Remember, God will never turn away.
7. Take careful aim when you pee. Someone has to clean that up, you know.
8. The reason they are called "private parts" is because they're private. Please keep them covered and
refrain from touching or scratching them in public.
9. Be strong and tender at the same time. Know when to listen and when to talk.
10. Allow me to introduce you to the dishwasher, oven, washing machine, iron, vacuum, mop and broom.
Don't ever be ashamed you know how to use them.
11. Your knowledge and education can never be taken away from you.
12. You will set the tone for the sexual relationship. Don't take something away from her you can't give back.
13. A woman can do everything you can do. This includes her having a successful career and you changing
diapers at 3 am. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.
14. Treat women kindly. Forever is a long time to live alone, and it's even longer to live with someone who
hates your guts.
15. Bringing her flowers for no reason is always a good idea.
16. Please choose your spouse wisely. My daughter-in-law will be the gatekeeper for me spending time with
you and my grandchildren.
17. Save money when you're young because you're going to need it some day.
18. Potty humor isn't the only thing that's humorous. There is a fine line between funny and not funny.
Knowing where this line falls is the art of comedy.
19. Be patriotic. In mind, heart and spirit. And, don't forget to thank a soldier every time you get a chance.
20. Remember to call your mother, I might be missing you.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
The Fast and the Furious
Last week, we were visited by my parents and niece, from Oklahoma. We spent two weeks getting things organized (and still didn't accomplish all of the organization we'd hoped), and then they were here. The morning of their arrival, we decided to get out of the house and go up to the Eagle Center. A nice family trip to Wabasha.
It was LM's first time seeing many of the animals we saw... eagles, tortoises, snakes, a small crocodile. He put on his brave face, but I really don't think he cared for the scaley reptiles. After spending some time at the Raptor Center, we decided to have some lunch at a little pizzeria (great food... yum-o), and headed home.
I had to get bags packed so LM and I could accompany my family members to Wausau, WI to visit some of my relatives. Of course, the first night, LM started to run a troubling fever. A snow storm greeted us the next morning, along with a 103 temp for the little one. I gave him ibuprophen, cool juice mixed with water and put a cool wash rag on his legs to try to cool him off, then called my parents.
We waited for his temperature to fall... then went to visit the relatives. Poor little guy just oscillated between a decent temp and a high temp most of the day - thanks to administration of ibuprophen and infant Tylenol.
That night, after his temperature was being troublesome all day, my parents decided to rotate shifts with me in my room... so that I could get some rest. That's right... that's the kind of parents I have. In one word... awesome. I can't say how comforting it was to have one of them in my room with me at all times, especially my father. (He has many years of medical training under his belt... and knows what to do in a crunch.)
Somewhere around 10:45, we began to doubt the accuracy of the tempanic thermometer (another reading of 103? Really? Even with ibuprophen on board??). It was just so inconsistent. So my father, the saint that he is, went to his room and got his clothes on... and drove out in the nasty weather on a quest to find a thermometer. Luckily, County Market (right down the street) was open. He called from there saying they didn't have tempanic thermometers... I told him just grab what they had and we'd figure it out. Once he got back, we took the temp and it was at 100.7. That made us both breathe a sigh of relief... because the next option was going to be a trip to the er (the only thing open at that hour)... and likely a hefty out-of-network bill... or a long fight with insurance.
Needless to say, we rose early the next morning, LM seemed to be in better spirits... and his temperature was hovering around 99. We loaded up the car, ate breakfast, went to say goodbye to relatives... and were on our way. The next day, LM saw the doctor - just to make sure. The culprit? A minor ear infection coupled with teething. Hooray for antibiotics!! He's now feeling more like his normal self and wreaking havoc and chaos all over the house again!
You see, before you are a parent, you don't really pay attention to the silence. Sometimes, you even enjoy a few moments of silence... cherish it... and revel in it. Once you become a parent, silence is eerie and even suspicious. If your child is sick, you crave the noise of them feeling better. If your child is quiet for too long, you head out searching for them, expecting some sort of trouble or impending doom.
Silence is no longer golden... it's the enemy.
We love our noise.
Needless to say, my parents deserve a HUGE shout out on this.
I have the type of parents who sacrifice of themselves willingly - not just for their children and grandchildren... but for others as well.
I have the type of parents who will come to my house and help me, no matter what the task. Whether it be cleaning... building stuff... installing tile, helping with a newborn baby... when they are needed, they are there... no questions asked.
I have the type of parents who practice random acts of kindness daily.
I have the type of parents that refuse to lie, cheat, or take from their children.
I have the type of parents that give of themselves to see their children and grandchildren have the things they did not have.
I have the type of parents you can call awesome... and mean it.
I love my parents. I respect them. We don't always agree... but I know they are usually right.
And I am endlessly grateful to them for being the people they are and helping me become the woman I am today.
It was LM's first time seeing many of the animals we saw... eagles, tortoises, snakes, a small crocodile. He put on his brave face, but I really don't think he cared for the scaley reptiles. After spending some time at the Raptor Center, we decided to have some lunch at a little pizzeria (great food... yum-o), and headed home.
I had to get bags packed so LM and I could accompany my family members to Wausau, WI to visit some of my relatives. Of course, the first night, LM started to run a troubling fever. A snow storm greeted us the next morning, along with a 103 temp for the little one. I gave him ibuprophen, cool juice mixed with water and put a cool wash rag on his legs to try to cool him off, then called my parents.
We waited for his temperature to fall... then went to visit the relatives. Poor little guy just oscillated between a decent temp and a high temp most of the day - thanks to administration of ibuprophen and infant Tylenol.
That night, after his temperature was being troublesome all day, my parents decided to rotate shifts with me in my room... so that I could get some rest. That's right... that's the kind of parents I have. In one word... awesome. I can't say how comforting it was to have one of them in my room with me at all times, especially my father. (He has many years of medical training under his belt... and knows what to do in a crunch.)
Somewhere around 10:45, we began to doubt the accuracy of the tempanic thermometer (another reading of 103? Really? Even with ibuprophen on board??). It was just so inconsistent. So my father, the saint that he is, went to his room and got his clothes on... and drove out in the nasty weather on a quest to find a thermometer. Luckily, County Market (right down the street) was open. He called from there saying they didn't have tempanic thermometers... I told him just grab what they had and we'd figure it out. Once he got back, we took the temp and it was at 100.7. That made us both breathe a sigh of relief... because the next option was going to be a trip to the er (the only thing open at that hour)... and likely a hefty out-of-network bill... or a long fight with insurance.
Needless to say, we rose early the next morning, LM seemed to be in better spirits... and his temperature was hovering around 99. We loaded up the car, ate breakfast, went to say goodbye to relatives... and were on our way. The next day, LM saw the doctor - just to make sure. The culprit? A minor ear infection coupled with teething. Hooray for antibiotics!! He's now feeling more like his normal self and wreaking havoc and chaos all over the house again!
You see, before you are a parent, you don't really pay attention to the silence. Sometimes, you even enjoy a few moments of silence... cherish it... and revel in it. Once you become a parent, silence is eerie and even suspicious. If your child is sick, you crave the noise of them feeling better. If your child is quiet for too long, you head out searching for them, expecting some sort of trouble or impending doom.
Silence is no longer golden... it's the enemy.
We love our noise.
Needless to say, my parents deserve a HUGE shout out on this.
I have the type of parents who sacrifice of themselves willingly - not just for their children and grandchildren... but for others as well.
I have the type of parents who will come to my house and help me, no matter what the task. Whether it be cleaning... building stuff... installing tile, helping with a newborn baby... when they are needed, they are there... no questions asked.
I have the type of parents who practice random acts of kindness daily.
I have the type of parents that refuse to lie, cheat, or take from their children.
I have the type of parents that give of themselves to see their children and grandchildren have the things they did not have.
I have the type of parents you can call awesome... and mean it.
I love my parents. I respect them. We don't always agree... but I know they are usually right.
And I am endlessly grateful to them for being the people they are and helping me become the woman I am today.
Friday, March 22, 2013
Hurting me is one thing... try hurting my son....
Today, I read a story about a mother in GA whose 13-month old baby was shot in the head by someone. She claims it was a 13-15 year old boy and his 10-ish year old accomplice. They shot the baby in the head and wounded her when demanding money that she didn't have to give them.
Now, I hate to doubt people... but my husband is a police officer. I know that there is always another side to the story... and somewhere in the middle lies the truth. I know, as a mother, I would bring extreme harm to someone who threatened harm to my son.
My own son is 19-months-old. I'd do anything for him. He is the very reason I live my life - he is the reason I get up in the morning... the reason I go to work to make sure he's taken care of and gets anything he needs/wants (within reason).
Let me tell you... from my perspective... a super human strength kicks in when I'm afraid for his safety. I will do anything in my power to make sure he's safe. I don't care what that is. I may not be a tall person... I may even not look strong... but I will NOT let someone push me out of the way to harm my son. It just isn't happening. I'll bite, claw, hit, scream, kick... do whatever it takes. Gun? That's alright. I will find a way. Believe me, I'll go down trying.
I just don't get how someone could push her out of the way of her child and shoot her child but leave her to describe them.
Now, I hate to doubt people... but my husband is a police officer. I know that there is always another side to the story... and somewhere in the middle lies the truth. I know, as a mother, I would bring extreme harm to someone who threatened harm to my son.
My own son is 19-months-old. I'd do anything for him. He is the very reason I live my life - he is the reason I get up in the morning... the reason I go to work to make sure he's taken care of and gets anything he needs/wants (within reason).
Let me tell you... from my perspective... a super human strength kicks in when I'm afraid for his safety. I will do anything in my power to make sure he's safe. I don't care what that is. I may not be a tall person... I may even not look strong... but I will NOT let someone push me out of the way to harm my son. It just isn't happening. I'll bite, claw, hit, scream, kick... do whatever it takes. Gun? That's alright. I will find a way. Believe me, I'll go down trying.
I just don't get how someone could push her out of the way of her child and shoot her child but leave her to describe them.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Mommy's Sweet Helper
I think it’s every parent’s secret desire that they will one day
have a child that willingly helps with the house work and such. Deep down
inside, they know this dream may never come true, but it’s nice to dream. We
were definitely blessed.
I watch our LM as he grows. He loves to try to help. He wipes up
when he spills things, sometimes he spills on purpose and then asks for a rag
by saying “(w)ash” and rubbing his tiny hands together. He helps set up his
dinner area… and then helps clean up after dinner. But, the most interesting
fascination is the vacuum cleaner.
I’m not sure what it is about the vacuum cleaner he finds so
appealing, but I don’t stop to question him about it. I just let him indulge his
fascination. Maybe I’m wrong in always doing that, but it’s pointless to argue
with a 19-month-old, they tend to win.
I never expected him to take an interest in vacuum cleaners when
he was 9 months old (when he started to pick up the cord and follow me as I
vacuumed). I thought he’d forgotten about it when he grabbed the vacuum from me
at 17 months old and vacuumed most of the family room at my parents’ house. I
certainly never expected him to retain the interest, yet here we are, 2 months
later… and he saw the vacuum while we were getting ready for work and insisted
on vacuuming. Who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth?
Not only did he insist on using the real vacuum as opposed to his
toy vacuum, he also moved things out of his way to clean behind them… then
called on me to put them back. It was absolutely precious.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
A Note on Breastfeeding
When I first became pregnant, the idea of breastfeeding was uncharted territory. My mother had not been able to bf me...but she had my brothers. She let me know her thoughts. I had a few friends that also shared their thoughts. So, I was interested.
I was nervous, to say the least. Once our son was born, I tried in the hospital. Needless to say, he inherited my fiery Spanish temper... and it was not an easy task to attempt. After many failed attempts, I was almost ready to give up.
LC specialists came in... often cramming my tiny little man's head into my chest - which only served to anger him further. A day and a half went by, and I was reduced to tears. My baby boy was crying from hunger, I was trying to pump and getting literally drops, as milk had not come in. My husband came into the room one morning to find me cuddling the baby and bawling my eyes out.
Being an attentive husband, he immediately asked me what was wrong. I don't know how he was able to make out what was bothering me from my sobs and snotty breaths, but he somehow managed. He immediately spoke to the nurse manager... and our nursing team sprang into action.
A feeding schedule was made, the nurses vowed we should always try bf first... and as a last resort formula feed, if baby refused. The rest of the stay was so much more pleasant.
It wasn't until I was home for a couple of days that my milk actually came in... at which time, the baby was still rather frustrated with the whole ordeal, and didn't want to latch much. So I pumped like a mad woman. Once he got a taste for mama's milk, he loved feeding.
In short, while it was very difficult to get to the point of baby latching properly and feeding well... the experience was well worth the heartache and frustration. Breast feeding was one of the most rewarding and amazing experiences I have ever gone through.
I'm glad I stuck to my guns and didn't just give up... because it really led to some wonderful bonding time for myself and the LN... and that time was the best time I've invested in anything in my life. LM is one of the greatest investments in my life... and he's well worth every single minute I get to spend with him.
I was nervous, to say the least. Once our son was born, I tried in the hospital. Needless to say, he inherited my fiery Spanish temper... and it was not an easy task to attempt. After many failed attempts, I was almost ready to give up.
LC specialists came in... often cramming my tiny little man's head into my chest - which only served to anger him further. A day and a half went by, and I was reduced to tears. My baby boy was crying from hunger, I was trying to pump and getting literally drops, as milk had not come in. My husband came into the room one morning to find me cuddling the baby and bawling my eyes out.
Being an attentive husband, he immediately asked me what was wrong. I don't know how he was able to make out what was bothering me from my sobs and snotty breaths, but he somehow managed. He immediately spoke to the nurse manager... and our nursing team sprang into action.
A feeding schedule was made, the nurses vowed we should always try bf first... and as a last resort formula feed, if baby refused. The rest of the stay was so much more pleasant.
It wasn't until I was home for a couple of days that my milk actually came in... at which time, the baby was still rather frustrated with the whole ordeal, and didn't want to latch much. So I pumped like a mad woman. Once he got a taste for mama's milk, he loved feeding.
In short, while it was very difficult to get to the point of baby latching properly and feeding well... the experience was well worth the heartache and frustration. Breast feeding was one of the most rewarding and amazing experiences I have ever gone through.
I'm glad I stuck to my guns and didn't just give up... because it really led to some wonderful bonding time for myself and the LN... and that time was the best time I've invested in anything in my life. LM is one of the greatest investments in my life... and he's well worth every single minute I get to spend with him.
Catching Rainbows
Little Monkey (LM)...the whirlwind of a spider monkey that has made our house a home. We crave the laughter and the antics. We get lost when we don't hear them.
18 months ago... we never would have expected as much. We knew our lives would change, but we didn't know a tiny human would have such a profound effect on us. I mean, he is my everything. I wake up and my first thought is of him... I think of him all day while I'm at work and he's at daycare... I go to sleep at night, him cuddled tightly at my side... and my dreams are filled with his smile and laughter. Long story short, I am addicted to the sweetest little boy I have ever met, and I am so very thankful God has trusted one of his angels into my care.
It seems as though LM learns new things by the minute. It amazes people that he is only 18 months old...they always ask if he's 2 or 3. He talks a LOT. When I say a lot... I mean, from the moment he wakes up until the moment he falls asleep... as long as he's with us, that little boy babbles incessantly. It's the sweetest sound I have heard in a long time. We have our little conversations - which may not make any sense to anyone else; but they make absolute perfect sense to myself and LM. That's pretty much all that matters.
He adores his friend Bella - our incredibly gentle cat. I have to give her props... she has all of her claws and a full set of very sharp teeth. LM flops on her, pulls her tail, pokes at her, and does other things cats generally hate... and she never once has even bared a tooth or a claw aimed at what was once the smallest member of our family. She is the most patient and loving cat, and it amazes me. As soon as LM makes a peep, she runs to check on him. If she doesn't think I jump fast enough, she will "escort" me to him. She really loves her little baby - I sometimes jokingly call her Nana.
Anyway - as LM grows and changes and develops into a very independent little man, I stand by and watch. I wish I could spend every minute of every day with him... so I didn't have to miss a second of his life. But I know it is best to let him be around other children and learn to function as a part of society. It makes any time I get to spend with him that much more special - and I cherish our play time. He's the best thing that ever happened to me. I just wish time would slow down a bit so I could enjoy him that much more.
18 months ago... we never would have expected as much. We knew our lives would change, but we didn't know a tiny human would have such a profound effect on us. I mean, he is my everything. I wake up and my first thought is of him... I think of him all day while I'm at work and he's at daycare... I go to sleep at night, him cuddled tightly at my side... and my dreams are filled with his smile and laughter. Long story short, I am addicted to the sweetest little boy I have ever met, and I am so very thankful God has trusted one of his angels into my care.
It seems as though LM learns new things by the minute. It amazes people that he is only 18 months old...they always ask if he's 2 or 3. He talks a LOT. When I say a lot... I mean, from the moment he wakes up until the moment he falls asleep... as long as he's with us, that little boy babbles incessantly. It's the sweetest sound I have heard in a long time. We have our little conversations - which may not make any sense to anyone else; but they make absolute perfect sense to myself and LM. That's pretty much all that matters.
He adores his friend Bella - our incredibly gentle cat. I have to give her props... she has all of her claws and a full set of very sharp teeth. LM flops on her, pulls her tail, pokes at her, and does other things cats generally hate... and she never once has even bared a tooth or a claw aimed at what was once the smallest member of our family. She is the most patient and loving cat, and it amazes me. As soon as LM makes a peep, she runs to check on him. If she doesn't think I jump fast enough, she will "escort" me to him. She really loves her little baby - I sometimes jokingly call her Nana.
Anyway - as LM grows and changes and develops into a very independent little man, I stand by and watch. I wish I could spend every minute of every day with him... so I didn't have to miss a second of his life. But I know it is best to let him be around other children and learn to function as a part of society. It makes any time I get to spend with him that much more special - and I cherish our play time. He's the best thing that ever happened to me. I just wish time would slow down a bit so I could enjoy him that much more.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Hello Again
Wow, it's been a long time since I posted anything at all about our sweet little man... so, here goes:
When I left off, LM had begun to walk and run. We still can't get him to slow down - but at least he has gotten better with his balance. The little man is always on the go. It's pretty funny to watch him most of the time. He also loves to climb up on tables, couches, chairs, laps - pretty much whatever he can crawl up on. He has mastered this skill and makes it look easy now.
LM still has a love for reading. He has switched his tastes to the likes of Old McDonald Had A Farm, My Little Golden Book about Numbers, My Little Golden Book about God... and pretty much anything that talks, plays songs, or makes any type of noise. He also likes to read back to you - while it sounds like babble... it's still cute.
I think our reading to him since he was very tiny (a week old) has helped with his verbal development. He loves to babble... knows about 115 words, sign language, several phrases (which he uses correctly and in context), and some Spanish. He is a little sponge, we really have to watch what we say around him. But it has been a complete joy watching him learn new terms and learn to use them properly.
LM has always loved water. We have made a discovery - tub crayons. He LOVES them. It's so cute to watch him scribble on the walls in the tub and play in the water. He loves the bubble blower, too. He didn't always like this contraption... but once we got one that played music and talked, he was game. It's a fight to get him out of the tub most nights... but it's absolutely adorable.
He has acquired a love of cleaning. He loves to play with the dust mop, dust rags, and the vacuum. He will mimic whatever I do with these household tools. We actually had to go buy him a tiny, kid-sized vacuum at the toy store (that makes noises like a real vacuum - yes, they exist), because he would throw a fit every time we turned off the vacuum and told him cleaning time was over. (Wow, I really hope that he never loses sight of his love for these skills.)
Over the Christmas holidays, we decided we would take a trip to Oklahoma to spend it with my immediate family. 13.5 hours and three states later, we really had a pleasant trip. LM loves car rides, this has never been a secret. But we were surprised he did so well on such a long trip.
Now we are at another developmental milestone. We are embarking on the potty training journey. He has been hinting for a couple of months that he is ready to try - he tells us when his diaper is dirty, goes to his room for the table, leads us to his room, and sometimes will go to the toilet and point at it, saying "potty" or "pee-pee". Yep, he's definitely ready. Now that we have his training potty (we had to get one that goes on the normal toilet... he would not use the kids themed one), we will be starting.
Words can't even express how in love I am with this tiny miracle. He's nothing short of amazing to me.
When I left off, LM had begun to walk and run. We still can't get him to slow down - but at least he has gotten better with his balance. The little man is always on the go. It's pretty funny to watch him most of the time. He also loves to climb up on tables, couches, chairs, laps - pretty much whatever he can crawl up on. He has mastered this skill and makes it look easy now.
LM still has a love for reading. He has switched his tastes to the likes of Old McDonald Had A Farm, My Little Golden Book about Numbers, My Little Golden Book about God... and pretty much anything that talks, plays songs, or makes any type of noise. He also likes to read back to you - while it sounds like babble... it's still cute.
I think our reading to him since he was very tiny (a week old) has helped with his verbal development. He loves to babble... knows about 115 words, sign language, several phrases (which he uses correctly and in context), and some Spanish. He is a little sponge, we really have to watch what we say around him. But it has been a complete joy watching him learn new terms and learn to use them properly.
LM has always loved water. We have made a discovery - tub crayons. He LOVES them. It's so cute to watch him scribble on the walls in the tub and play in the water. He loves the bubble blower, too. He didn't always like this contraption... but once we got one that played music and talked, he was game. It's a fight to get him out of the tub most nights... but it's absolutely adorable.
He has acquired a love of cleaning. He loves to play with the dust mop, dust rags, and the vacuum. He will mimic whatever I do with these household tools. We actually had to go buy him a tiny, kid-sized vacuum at the toy store (that makes noises like a real vacuum - yes, they exist), because he would throw a fit every time we turned off the vacuum and told him cleaning time was over. (Wow, I really hope that he never loses sight of his love for these skills.)
Over the Christmas holidays, we decided we would take a trip to Oklahoma to spend it with my immediate family. 13.5 hours and three states later, we really had a pleasant trip. LM loves car rides, this has never been a secret. But we were surprised he did so well on such a long trip.
Now we are at another developmental milestone. We are embarking on the potty training journey. He has been hinting for a couple of months that he is ready to try - he tells us when his diaper is dirty, goes to his room for the table, leads us to his room, and sometimes will go to the toilet and point at it, saying "potty" or "pee-pee". Yep, he's definitely ready. Now that we have his training potty (we had to get one that goes on the normal toilet... he would not use the kids themed one), we will be starting.
Words can't even express how in love I am with this tiny miracle. He's nothing short of amazing to me.
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