Don't forget to enter to win a free, customized "shaggy" necklace from Jaclyn1423!
Low entries! Giveaway closes tomorrow night!
Find details here....
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Goodbye Baby Weight - Week 3
Just a quick post this week. Didn't lose, only maintained - still better than gaining. Didn't do a great job. Family came to visit and we had three meals out and I didn't really cut back at all so shame on me.
Week 1 Stats -
Weight Goal - Lose 35 lbs
Last Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
This Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
Progress - maintained, total of 2.5 lbs
Question of the week -
What's your favorite healthy food snack? I love to munch on fruit during the day - grapes, clementines, apples, bananas, strawberries....just about anything!
Until next week.....
Week 1 Stats -
Weight Goal - Lose 35 lbs
Last Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
This Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
Progress - maintained, total of 2.5 lbs
Question of the week -
What's your favorite healthy food snack? I love to munch on fruit during the day - grapes, clementines, apples, bananas, strawberries....just about anything!
Until next week.....
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Thought process of a 10 week old (in pictures)
"Dum da dum...."
"Wait! Who is that?"
"Oh, geez....it's just my mommy with her camera phone! You're so silly, mommy!"
"Yeah...take my picture....I'm looking gooo-ooood!"
Breastfeeding Troubles
Lil' man is now almost 11 weeks old! How time flies....
I had been looking forward to breastfeeding from the moment I knew I was pregnant. I couldn't wait to share that bond with my baby and I knew it would be the absolute very best for him. I took a breastfeeding class while I was pregnant and I read articles and blogs and books and any piece of information I could find to gain enough knowledge to try to make breastfeeding successful. I went in knowing that it can be a very difficult journey for mommy and baby to get things just right. I went in with an open mind, but still determined to make it work.
Once LM was born, it was time to put it to the test. My expectations were blown out of the water. From the minute he was placed on my chest in recovery, he bobbed around and latched on almost immediately. I couldn't believe it - I had an overachiever and we were going to be just fine! The next few days and next few weeks, things went wonderfully and couldn't be better. (OK, that's a lie, whenever he latched on I had to prevent myself from crying and throwing something across the room because of the pain, but it went away shortly after and things were perfect again) During my maternity leave, I started building up a supply of milk in my freezer. I heart my Medela pump and my plan to successfully breastfeed (for at least one year) were laid out in front of me. I felt so very lucky, this was wonderful! I love the bonding with my guy and knowing that I am able to provide the most basic need a mother can for him. He went from 9 lbs at birth to over 13 lbs at 2 months! I had good milk and plenty of it!
Flash forward to seven weeks after LM was born - I started back to work. The first few weeks of pumping were just fine. Plenty for the next day and I was still able to build the stash in the freezer.
This week, things are different. My supply over the last few days has dropped significantly. WHY!? Eating the same, sleeping the same, drinking the same, stress level is the same. What is going on? I'm barely (or not even) able to pump enough for the next day which forces us to dip into our freezer stash that's slowly going down. I'm worried I'm not producing enough to satisfy him in the evenings. This causes more stress and probably does nothing to help my milk supply.
Anyone out there have any suggestions? I'm already pumping three times during the work day and feeding very regularly in the evenings. LM is sleeping about 6 hours at night though, so feeding less often then. I know there are products and supplements out there to help increase milk supply but I'm very wary before taking anything. (I'm open to suggestions though) It breaks my heart to think of supplementing with formula. Anyone have any advice for a struggling mama?
I had been looking forward to breastfeeding from the moment I knew I was pregnant. I couldn't wait to share that bond with my baby and I knew it would be the absolute very best for him. I took a breastfeeding class while I was pregnant and I read articles and blogs and books and any piece of information I could find to gain enough knowledge to try to make breastfeeding successful. I went in knowing that it can be a very difficult journey for mommy and baby to get things just right. I went in with an open mind, but still determined to make it work.
Once LM was born, it was time to put it to the test. My expectations were blown out of the water. From the minute he was placed on my chest in recovery, he bobbed around and latched on almost immediately. I couldn't believe it - I had an overachiever and we were going to be just fine! The next few days and next few weeks, things went wonderfully and couldn't be better. (OK, that's a lie, whenever he latched on I had to prevent myself from crying and throwing something across the room because of the pain, but it went away shortly after and things were perfect again) During my maternity leave, I started building up a supply of milk in my freezer. I heart my Medela pump and my plan to successfully breastfeed (for at least one year) were laid out in front of me. I felt so very lucky, this was wonderful! I love the bonding with my guy and knowing that I am able to provide the most basic need a mother can for him. He went from 9 lbs at birth to over 13 lbs at 2 months! I had good milk and plenty of it!
Flash forward to seven weeks after LM was born - I started back to work. The first few weeks of pumping were just fine. Plenty for the next day and I was still able to build the stash in the freezer.
This week, things are different. My supply over the last few days has dropped significantly. WHY!? Eating the same, sleeping the same, drinking the same, stress level is the same. What is going on? I'm barely (or not even) able to pump enough for the next day which forces us to dip into our freezer stash that's slowly going down. I'm worried I'm not producing enough to satisfy him in the evenings. This causes more stress and probably does nothing to help my milk supply.
Anyone out there have any suggestions? I'm already pumping three times during the work day and feeding very regularly in the evenings. LM is sleeping about 6 hours at night though, so feeding less often then. I know there are products and supplements out there to help increase milk supply but I'm very wary before taking anything. (I'm open to suggestions though) It breaks my heart to think of supplementing with formula. Anyone have any advice for a struggling mama?
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Yippee! I'm in a blogger spotlight....
Jaclyn over at Snap, Crackle, Pop (ya know...the one that's helping me with the shaggy necklace giveaway!) has Does This Baby Make Me Look Fat in a blogger spotlight today!! Go visit and make sure to check out the giveaway here!!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Hands free pumping!
Today, I discovered a trick!! Hands Free Pumping for free - check it out here: Hands Free Pumping
I know, I know...there are plenty of options for hands free pumping - bustiers, supports, special bras, really expensive pumps. With hubby and I on a budget for the new year, we are trying to analyze the money we are spending and asking ourselves "Do we really need that?"
A $40 support to buy so that I can play Angry Birds on my phone or text or read while pumping at work? I think the ponytail holders will do just fine. I've tried it several times and it works like a charm. Now, if you see me covered in milk because this trusty system failed and I then have to make the shameful, wet walk back to my desk....then I might be investing in something else. HA!
I know, I know...there are plenty of options for hands free pumping - bustiers, supports, special bras, really expensive pumps. With hubby and I on a budget for the new year, we are trying to analyze the money we are spending and asking ourselves "Do we really need that?"
A $40 support to buy so that I can play Angry Birds on my phone or text or read while pumping at work? I think the ponytail holders will do just fine. I've tried it several times and it works like a charm. Now, if you see me covered in milk because this trusty system failed and I then have to make the shameful, wet walk back to my desk....then I might be investing in something else. HA!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Goodbye Baby Weight - Week 2
One week down on my get healthy plan. Not a horrible week....not that great either. Made it to the gym twice - mostly just walking a few miles and a little weight lifting. Portion sizes weren't too bad but I made the mistake of buying some ice cream and had to indulge for dessert a few times. Oopsies. Adam also bought a cookie cake and let's just say it's gone - only took 3 days. Ouchie. Needless to say that we need to keep healthier options for sweets instead of ice cream and cookies!
Week 1 Stats -
Weight Goal - Lose 35 lbs
Last Week's Weight - 205 lbs
This Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
Progress - -2.5 lbs I'll take it!
Question of the week -
What's your food weakness? Do I really need to answer this? It appears sweets have taken hold of me. I also have a weakness for food that's in front of me - like if someone brings cupcakes to work. I usually appear to have left my self control somewhere else....
Since I don't like to always hold my breath for the number on the scale, my hope is to start with measurements this week. Not sure if I will be brave enough to post them yet, but I know it's a great way to track progress.
Until next week.....
Week 1 Stats -
Weight Goal - Lose 35 lbs
Last Week's Weight - 205 lbs
This Week's Weight - 202.5 lbs
Progress - -2.5 lbs I'll take it!
Question of the week -
What's your food weakness? Do I really need to answer this? It appears sweets have taken hold of me. I also have a weakness for food that's in front of me - like if someone brings cupcakes to work. I usually appear to have left my self control somewhere else....
Since I don't like to always hold my breath for the number on the scale, my hope is to start with measurements this week. Not sure if I will be brave enough to post them yet, but I know it's a great way to track progress.
Until next week.....
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Getting to the gym...
So on my quest to lose the baby weight, I am working to get both sides of the equation started - working out and eating better. The eating better will just take some self control on my part and some due diligence when it comes to the grocery shopping.
The working out part is a little trickier. I'm already waking up at 5am to get ready for work and to feed lil' man, so working out in the morning would require waking up at a time that starts with a '4' and I'm just not OK with that. HA! When I get off work, I'm so excited to get home to my lil' man and if it's timed right, will feed him right away. Then it leads into making and eating dinner and whatever else I need to do and then another feeding and then hopefully (cross my fingers!) it's bedtime. So I'm pretty much going to have to dust off my Wii Fit to get some at home exercise. However, the hubby and I made it to the gym twice over the weekend. We took turns walking William around the indoor track - William in his stroller (lucky!). Then switched off to do some strength training. It was perfect as long as lil' man wasn't fussy - he slept pretty much the whole time anyway.
How could I not be motivated looking at this face while working out!
The working out part is a little trickier. I'm already waking up at 5am to get ready for work and to feed lil' man, so working out in the morning would require waking up at a time that starts with a '4' and I'm just not OK with that. HA! When I get off work, I'm so excited to get home to my lil' man and if it's timed right, will feed him right away. Then it leads into making and eating dinner and whatever else I need to do and then another feeding and then hopefully (cross my fingers!) it's bedtime. So I'm pretty much going to have to dust off my Wii Fit to get some at home exercise. However, the hubby and I made it to the gym twice over the weekend. We took turns walking William around the indoor track - William in his stroller (lucky!). Then switched off to do some strength training. It was perfect as long as lil' man wasn't fussy - he slept pretty much the whole time anyway.
How could I not be motivated looking at this face while working out!
Monday, January 17, 2011
100 Followers Giveaway! [CLOSED]
I made it to 100 followers! Thanks everyone for your support!
To celebrate, I think it's time for a "pretty things" giveaway! I have teamed up with Jaclyn at Snap, Crackle, Pop for a great, personalized giveaway!! Jaclyn is the seller behind Jaclyn1423 on Etsy where you can find completely unique and often upcycled jewelry. There are so many things to choose from and possibilities to personalize. Check out one of her best sellers - her best friend Rocks, Paper, Sissor necklaces set -
To celebrate, I think it's time for a "pretty things" giveaway! I have teamed up with Jaclyn at Snap, Crackle, Pop for a great, personalized giveaway!! Jaclyn is the seller behind Jaclyn1423 on Etsy where you can find completely unique and often upcycled jewelry. There are so many things to choose from and possibilities to personalize. Check out one of her best sellers - her best friend Rocks, Paper, Sissor necklaces set -
She also makes gorgeous, customized bridesmaids jewelry!!
These were the necklaces for the girls in my wedding!!
Or something that decorates my neck quite regularly, my "Mommy Necklace"!
For this giveaway, Jaclyn is offering a personalized "shaggy" necklace. You might have remembered me talking about how excited I was for my own - my personalized shaggy necklace!
What is up for grabs?:
One, customized, shaggy necklace from Jaclyn1423. The winner will get to choose color scheme.
Mandatory Entries:
[These count as single entry]
Must be public follower of this blog via GFC.
Visit Jaclyn1423 and comment below with the item you would love to give someone. Who would you give it to?
Additional Entries:
- Fan Jaclyn1423 on Facebook [1 entry]
- Sign up for email updates on Snap, Crackle, Pop [2 entries]
- Blog about this giveaway and provide link [3 entries]
Please make sure to leave seperate comments for each entry that includes your email address so I can contact you if you win!! Giveaway ends January 31st at 11:59pm CST. A winner will be chosen using random.org. Thanks!!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Our Saturday Morning
Before I became a mother, I would always look forward to the weekend. This was when I could sleep in as late as I wanted and be able to take my time in getting the things done that I didn't have time to do during the week....and really, just being able to be lazy. Since William has come into the picture, I still look forward to the weekends. The days of sleeping in are long gone and I am just fine with that. After being back to work for only two weeks, I work to get things done in the evenings instead of taking that time to relax. That way, weekends are for fun and spending time with the family!
Spent the morning playing with William and Tressel and now hubby is napping on the couch (I know, even though we practically just woke up) with lil' man sleeping on his chest. It's not even noon and I am loving this day!
.....I may be speaking too soon....once lil' man wakes up and eats, we are heading the gym ...first time in over five months!! Yikes! Part of the "Lose Baby Weight 2011" plan! Wish me luck!
Spent the morning playing with William and Tressel and now hubby is napping on the couch (I know, even though we practically just woke up) with lil' man sleeping on his chest. It's not even noon and I am loving this day!
First time playing with the activity mat from Uncle Patrick and Aunt Ariana!
I love that he's starting to notice things all around him!!
Playing with mommy
Tressel wants to play too!
I spy a funny octopus!
They are spent.....
Thursday, January 13, 2011
2 months in the blink of an eye....
Wasn't I just pregnant five minutes ago? Didn't my water just break and Adam just rush me to the hospital? Didn't I just hear my baby's cry for the first time? Weren't we just coming home from the hospital with our new bundle of joy? How is my baby boy two months old already?
William is growing!! -
William is growing!! -
- He's now smiling regularly - daddy is really good at making him laugh
- He's starting to notice sounds and things in front of him - we finally hung the music mobile in his crib and the toy bar on his car seat because he's finally paying attention to them
- He can hold his head up so well now!
- He can follow things with his eyes
- He still sleeps with his arms above his head
- Diaper change needed? He will always grunt to tell us so!
- Speaking of diapers - he's finally in cloth full time!
- Still not really sure what the heck to do with that pacifier....I think he'd rather have mommy
- Those 0-3 month clothes? Those are long stored away
- Are those acorns in his cheeks? hehe
- He still loves his baths!
Goodbye Baby Weight - Week 1
OK....it's time....
William is now two months old. I have fully recovered from the c-section. I've returned to work. Now it's time to be that cliche - I need to lose the baby weight. I'm not planning anything drastic - baby steps should do the trick to losing the extra weight and getting healthy. A few weeks ago when I limited my food intake too much, I noticed my milk supply went WAY down....so slowly but surely will be my motto.
Starting Point:
I'm horrified to admit that I gained a ton of weight during pregnancy and am now at.....[choke] 205 pounds. This is the absolute heaviest I've ever been (never even been this close before!) and changes must be made!
Overall Goals:
William is now two months old. I have fully recovered from the c-section. I've returned to work. Now it's time to be that cliche - I need to lose the baby weight. I'm not planning anything drastic - baby steps should do the trick to losing the extra weight and getting healthy. A few weeks ago when I limited my food intake too much, I noticed my milk supply went WAY down....so slowly but surely will be my motto.
Starting Point:
I'm horrified to admit that I gained a ton of weight during pregnancy and am now at.....[choke] 205 pounds. This is the absolute heaviest I've ever been (never even been this close before!) and changes must be made!
Overall Goals:
- I try not to be too obsessed with the numbers....however, my first goal is to get rid of that dang "2" in front of my weight. I will have none of that!!
- I don't have a final goal in mind, I would like to lose around 35 lbs as my initial goal.
- Mostly I would like to get in shape (no matter what the number ends up being). Last year I was training for a triathlon sprint and that's another goal that I would love to meet, if not this year then next.
- I want to minimize (I mean really limit) the eating out we do. This is hurting our health and our wallets!
- No fast food
- Get to the gym at least once (baby steps...it's been a LONG time and Adam and I still haven't figured out how to fit this into our schedules with William)
- Watch portion sizes
- Focus on drinking plenty of water and eating fruits and veggies
Help me get to 100 followers!! Giveaway to follow!!
Hello, followers!! I am only 3 away from 100 followers! Help me get to 100 and I will be teaming up with Jaclyn at Jaclyn1423 Jewelry for a giveaway!!!
Stay tuned.....
Stay tuned.....
Thursday, January 6, 2011
New You 2011
It's a new year....a time for that same old resolution - get healthy and lose weight. Only this year it's a little different with 7 week old William now in the equation. My intent is still the same - get healthy and lose weight. And my first journey to lose baby weight shall begin.
My 2010 resolution was the same and I was on track to meet that by training for my very first triathlon sprint [My Triathlon Training Journey]. I was training about six days a week and although my weight loss wasn't completely significant, I was in excellent shape. Then, I peed on a stick, saw two pink lines and once morning sickness started, I became more of a couch potato instead. Cue to about nine months later and 65 pounds later...yes...I'm ashamed to say it was indeed 65 pounds later. I know William was only 9 lbs, but I keep telling myself that when my water broke, that was the other 56 pounds. However, if that were true...then why don't my pre-prego pants fit anymore? Someone must have snuck in my closet and shrunk them all while I was pregnant, I'm sure of it. HA!
So, needless to say, I have some work to do. A LOT of work to do and I know it will be exponentially more difficult to get to the gym with William in the mix. But a change needs to happen for my own health. I still am motivated and would love to be able to participate in a triathlon sprint this summer. Even in the dead of winter, it seems so close!! Adam's on board with me and he wants to do the same. Hello 2011...a new year and a fresh start!
And, hark, there are more wanna-lose-weight mommy's in the bloggy world for support! Sippy Cups and Cloth Bums and The Not-So-Secret Confessions of a First Time Mom are hosting a link-up for other mom's trying to lose weight and get into shape for the new year. You can link-up your weight loss blog posts (or you don't even need to link-up if you don't have a blog) and follow others through their journey and hopefully get some support while you share your journey!
My 2010 resolution was the same and I was on track to meet that by training for my very first triathlon sprint [My Triathlon Training Journey]. I was training about six days a week and although my weight loss wasn't completely significant, I was in excellent shape. Then, I peed on a stick, saw two pink lines and once morning sickness started, I became more of a couch potato instead. Cue to about nine months later and 65 pounds later...yes...I'm ashamed to say it was indeed 65 pounds later. I know William was only 9 lbs, but I keep telling myself that when my water broke, that was the other 56 pounds. However, if that were true...then why don't my pre-prego pants fit anymore? Someone must have snuck in my closet and shrunk them all while I was pregnant, I'm sure of it. HA!
So, needless to say, I have some work to do. A LOT of work to do and I know it will be exponentially more difficult to get to the gym with William in the mix. But a change needs to happen for my own health. I still am motivated and would love to be able to participate in a triathlon sprint this summer. Even in the dead of winter, it seems so close!! Adam's on board with me and he wants to do the same. Hello 2011...a new year and a fresh start!
And, hark, there are more wanna-lose-weight mommy's in the bloggy world for support! Sippy Cups and Cloth Bums and The Not-So-Secret Confessions of a First Time Mom are hosting a link-up for other mom's trying to lose weight and get into shape for the new year. You can link-up your weight loss blog posts (or you don't even need to link-up if you don't have a blog) and follow others through their journey and hopefully get some support while you share your journey!
Good Morning!!!
My husband gave me the best present in the world last night...the gift of SLEEP! It was glorious and probably one of the best presents I've ever gotten from him.
Since starting back to work this week, I've been struggling. The combination of very little sleep and getting back in the routine of having to be productive (that pesky work thing, ya know) for an extended period of time throughout the day....and did you know that naps are frowned on in the work place? Psh! It was only Wednesday and I was dragging and seriously contemplating feeding William and heading to be around 6pm last night - I was just so dang tired. I hung out with the hubby and baby for a few more hours and then after feeding little man around 9 pm, I headed to bed soon after, around 9:30. I figured I'd be up in a few hours again to feed William so it's a race to fall asleep to get at least one or two hours of decent sleep before getting up again. My hubby stays up with William and then puts him to bed - that's been sort of our routine. [as best of routine as possible with a 7 week old, HA!]
Skip to William getting fussy in the bassinet next to me....at 4:30am!!!! Going over 7 hours between a feeding? How can this be? Did I hit the mommy jackpot? Adam then told me that he had fed William with an extra bottle I had left for him during the day.
Don't get me wrong, I love nursing William - it's about my favorite part of the day. We get to cuddle and bond and I can just watch his eyes looking up at me. It melts my heart. But that 7 hours of uninterrupted, continuous sleep?? That melts mommy's heart too. :)
Since starting back to work this week, I've been struggling. The combination of very little sleep and getting back in the routine of having to be productive (that pesky work thing, ya know) for an extended period of time throughout the day....and did you know that naps are frowned on in the work place? Psh! It was only Wednesday and I was dragging and seriously contemplating feeding William and heading to be around 6pm last night - I was just so dang tired. I hung out with the hubby and baby for a few more hours and then after feeding little man around 9 pm, I headed to bed soon after, around 9:30. I figured I'd be up in a few hours again to feed William so it's a race to fall asleep to get at least one or two hours of decent sleep before getting up again. My hubby stays up with William and then puts him to bed - that's been sort of our routine. [as best of routine as possible with a 7 week old, HA!]
Skip to William getting fussy in the bassinet next to me....at 4:30am!!!! Going over 7 hours between a feeding? How can this be? Did I hit the mommy jackpot? Adam then told me that he had fed William with an extra bottle I had left for him during the day.
Don't get me wrong, I love nursing William - it's about my favorite part of the day. We get to cuddle and bond and I can just watch his eyes looking up at me. It melts my heart. But that 7 hours of uninterrupted, continuous sleep?? That melts mommy's heart too. :)
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
The love?....It's bigger!
My mother sent me a message today letting me know that she had been reading thru old blog posts of mine. She recalled a specific post I wrote on Mother's Day of this past year (read it here: Mother's Day 2010 Post) and suggested I revisit it.
In this post I had included a quote that kind of confirmed why I wanted to be a mother - keep in mind this is while I was still pregnant and hadn't actually been a mother yet.
"I had always wanted children. Partly, I wanted someone else to be more important than me; myself was a burdensome thing to keep carrying around. But I'd been missing that Self since my daughter's birth. I hadn't know it would be so eclipsed by the constant worry - had she burped, slept, peed? ("Sleep when she sleeps," the doctor said. I couldn't. I was too stunned. There were moments in those early days that when she cried, I cried too.) But that day I saw her from the window of the bus, I almost yelped aloud - not just with worry, with love. Minutes later I sat on the front stoop, and when the babysitter pushed the carriage around the corner, I felt a huge billowing of love that sat like a gigantic, soft helium balloon on my shoulders. I didn't know a person could feel that love, it was so large. But then, a few weeks later, I watch my little daughter wake from her nap, kick her little feet. And-whoosh!-that feeling of love grew exponentially. This kept happening as the weeks went by, and each time I was amazed. How could love be this big? That enormous, soft helium balloon got bigger and higher, until my love filled the skies. Boundless, as they say."
- Elizabeth Strout, author
The love that this author is describing seems unimaginable, but I assumed I had a pretty good idea of what motherhood would be like and how much I would love my child. I absolutely adore children, so of course, I would absolutely love my own kid.
Not....even....close.
My little one is almost eight weeks old. He hasn't taken his first steps or said his first words or climbed onto a school bus or learned to read or gone to college yet. However, the pride and love I feel towards him already is so much bigger than I imagined before I became a mother. I look forward to all those milestones but at the same time I want time to stand still when I get to see him smiling in the morning or when I see him start to notice faces and things around him or when I just simply feel his weight on me when he sleeps on my chest. I am finally feeling what is being described in Elizabeth Stout's words. I thought I knew the 'boundless' love that I would feel when I became a mother. That love that I had imagined?....it's bigger!
In this post I had included a quote that kind of confirmed why I wanted to be a mother - keep in mind this is while I was still pregnant and hadn't actually been a mother yet.
"I had always wanted children. Partly, I wanted someone else to be more important than me; myself was a burdensome thing to keep carrying around. But I'd been missing that Self since my daughter's birth. I hadn't know it would be so eclipsed by the constant worry - had she burped, slept, peed? ("Sleep when she sleeps," the doctor said. I couldn't. I was too stunned. There were moments in those early days that when she cried, I cried too.) But that day I saw her from the window of the bus, I almost yelped aloud - not just with worry, with love. Minutes later I sat on the front stoop, and when the babysitter pushed the carriage around the corner, I felt a huge billowing of love that sat like a gigantic, soft helium balloon on my shoulders. I didn't know a person could feel that love, it was so large. But then, a few weeks later, I watch my little daughter wake from her nap, kick her little feet. And-whoosh!-that feeling of love grew exponentially. This kept happening as the weeks went by, and each time I was amazed. How could love be this big? That enormous, soft helium balloon got bigger and higher, until my love filled the skies. Boundless, as they say."
- Elizabeth Strout, author
The love that this author is describing seems unimaginable, but I assumed I had a pretty good idea of what motherhood would be like and how much I would love my child. I absolutely adore children, so of course, I would absolutely love my own kid.
Not....even....close.
My little one is almost eight weeks old. He hasn't taken his first steps or said his first words or climbed onto a school bus or learned to read or gone to college yet. However, the pride and love I feel towards him already is so much bigger than I imagined before I became a mother. I look forward to all those milestones but at the same time I want time to stand still when I get to see him smiling in the morning or when I see him start to notice faces and things around him or when I just simply feel his weight on me when he sleeps on my chest. I am finally feeling what is being described in Elizabeth Stout's words. I thought I knew the 'boundless' love that I would feel when I became a mother. That love that I had imagined?....it's bigger!
Monday, January 3, 2011
What helps me smile through the day
When missing my boy during the day, if the dozen picture hanging around my desk don't do the trick, there is always video.......
How can this NOT make you smile!!! M!y heart just explodes when I watch this!!
How can this NOT make you smile!!! M!y heart just explodes when I watch this!!
Why did I bother wearing make-up?
First day back to work after nearly two months off for vacation and maternity leave and holiday...
It was a soggy day...
It started off just fine. Fed the lil' man, made myself some breakfast, packed my lunch, showered, dressed and got everything else ready to go. Then it was time to physically get in my car and drive myself to work for the entire day. I went to say goodbye to my lil' "stinky" in his bassinet in our bedroom. He was peacefully sleeping, but I had to pick him to give him a big mommy kiss and hug. Cue the waterworks.
I was a mess all the way to work when I finally decided, while pulling in the parking lot, that I needed to pull myself together and perhaps freshen up my make-up to not look like a weeping, sloppy mess as I walked into work after my time off. Why did I bother to wear make-up at all?
As the hours passed and I found myself keeping busy while playing catch-up, it became easier and easier. Adam sent me some picture texts of my baby boy at home and I had plenty ready to hang all around my desk!
I'm sure tomorrow will be even easier and it will continue to get easier.
And I get the most wonderful thing in the entire world to come home to each day!!!
It was a soggy day...
It started off just fine. Fed the lil' man, made myself some breakfast, packed my lunch, showered, dressed and got everything else ready to go. Then it was time to physically get in my car and drive myself to work for the entire day. I went to say goodbye to my lil' "stinky" in his bassinet in our bedroom. He was peacefully sleeping, but I had to pick him to give him a big mommy kiss and hug. Cue the waterworks.
I was a mess all the way to work when I finally decided, while pulling in the parking lot, that I needed to pull myself together and perhaps freshen up my make-up to not look like a weeping, sloppy mess as I walked into work after my time off. Why did I bother to wear make-up at all?
As the hours passed and I found myself keeping busy while playing catch-up, it became easier and easier. Adam sent me some picture texts of my baby boy at home and I had plenty ready to hang all around my desk!
I'm sure tomorrow will be even easier and it will continue to get easier.
And I get the most wonderful thing in the entire world to come home to each day!!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Dreading Monday
In less than 24 hours, it will be a very sad day. After over seven weeks off with vacation, maternity leave and the Christmas holiday, I will be heading back to work.
Although I am looking forward to working again and catching up on my work from my time off, the very thought of leaving William for nearly ten hours a day is enough to split my heart in half. Since Adam is in school and only has classes in afternoons, he will be able to take care of William during the day and Adam's mom and dad will be able to watch him in the afternoons. I'm thankful that we don't have to send William to daycare, but at the same time, it breaks my heart that I'm not able to stay home with him.
In only seven weeks, he has changed so much and I hate to let him go to miss even a second of it. I'm very thankful that I have the ability to take even seven weeks (all paid) off to spend with Adam and Liam. I'm just broken-hearted to see it finally over.
Starting back to work will absolutely be an adjustment - I will definitely be going in each day on a lot less sleep. Getting ready in the morning and having to change and nurse William will be much more hectic for my morning routine. Pumping several times during the day (I'm determined to continue breastfeeding even when I start back!) will take some getting used to - I will have to be much more efficient with my work to make this happen. Coordinating William's care and when I get off and picking him up in the afternoons will add another step in my daily routine. None of this is the end of the world - just an adjustment.
Even the very thought of waking up tomorrow morning, to hand William off to my hubby for the day, brings tears to my eyes. I know he'll be just fine....but I might have a missing piece of me during the day....
Although I am looking forward to working again and catching up on my work from my time off, the very thought of leaving William for nearly ten hours a day is enough to split my heart in half. Since Adam is in school and only has classes in afternoons, he will be able to take care of William during the day and Adam's mom and dad will be able to watch him in the afternoons. I'm thankful that we don't have to send William to daycare, but at the same time, it breaks my heart that I'm not able to stay home with him.
In only seven weeks, he has changed so much and I hate to let him go to miss even a second of it. I'm very thankful that I have the ability to take even seven weeks (all paid) off to spend with Adam and Liam. I'm just broken-hearted to see it finally over.
Starting back to work will absolutely be an adjustment - I will definitely be going in each day on a lot less sleep. Getting ready in the morning and having to change and nurse William will be much more hectic for my morning routine. Pumping several times during the day (I'm determined to continue breastfeeding even when I start back!) will take some getting used to - I will have to be much more efficient with my work to make this happen. Coordinating William's care and when I get off and picking him up in the afternoons will add another step in my daily routine. None of this is the end of the world - just an adjustment.
Even the very thought of waking up tomorrow morning, to hand William off to my hubby for the day, brings tears to my eyes. I know he'll be just fine....but I might have a missing piece of me during the day....
Saturday, January 1, 2011
CDing...FINALLY!!!
Thanks to everyone that offered suggestions for our diapering struggles! William had been suffering from what seemed to be a never-ending diaper rash and until it was cleared up, we had been using 'sposies.
His heiny is finally cleared up and we have been able to start the CDs!! I love them. We have been using the Rumparooz and Flips and I find both equally as easy to use and wash (I'm kinda preferring the snaps vs. hook and loop). My hubby prefers the pocket Rumparooz.
Even when I was still pregnant and explaining our intentions to use cloth diapers to family or friends, I would get eyebrow raises and comments that basically summed up that they thought we were absolutely crazy. "You mean, you put them in your washer with the pee and poop?" "You mean, you aren't going to do a diaper service?" "That seems like a whole lot of work!" Well, William is here and even after showing individuals the diapers....I'm still getting the same looks and comments. HA! Maybe I'm just not a good sales person and able to sell how easy and inexpensive and eco-friendly they are!! hehe
Yes, we are just starting off and I'm sure they'll get even easier. And yes, we only have a 7 week old (breastfed only) with easy, peasy diapers at the moment. But still.....it seems there is absolutely no convincing some people.
Either way, I'm a happy lady - William's rear is finally healed and cleared up and we are finally using the cloth diapers!! Wohoo.
What about you cloth diapering mamas out there - do you get those same looks and comments from people telling you your crazy for using CDs?
His heiny is finally cleared up and we have been able to start the CDs!! I love them. We have been using the Rumparooz and Flips and I find both equally as easy to use and wash (I'm kinda preferring the snaps vs. hook and loop). My hubby prefers the pocket Rumparooz.
Even when I was still pregnant and explaining our intentions to use cloth diapers to family or friends, I would get eyebrow raises and comments that basically summed up that they thought we were absolutely crazy. "You mean, you put them in your washer with the pee and poop?" "You mean, you aren't going to do a diaper service?" "That seems like a whole lot of work!" Well, William is here and even after showing individuals the diapers....I'm still getting the same looks and comments. HA! Maybe I'm just not a good sales person and able to sell how easy and inexpensive and eco-friendly they are!! hehe
Yes, we are just starting off and I'm sure they'll get even easier. And yes, we only have a 7 week old (breastfed only) with easy, peasy diapers at the moment. But still.....it seems there is absolutely no convincing some people.
Either way, I'm a happy lady - William's rear is finally healed and cleared up and we are finally using the cloth diapers!! Wohoo.
What about you cloth diapering mamas out there - do you get those same looks and comments from people telling you your crazy for using CDs?
A new year...
It's January 1st - most people would take the time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the year ahead.
Looking back at 2010, I can't help but feel so lucky.
We were able to celebrate the marriage of so many friends and family this year - this took us on trips to Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, Toledo, OH, San Antonio, TX and Dominican Republic and some right here at home. We have seen friends blessed with babies! Adam and I celebrated our one year anniversary. Adam was accepted to the college he applied for to finish his degree! Most significantly, we welcomed our first bundle of joy, William!
If you had asked me on January 1st, 2010 to imagine the upcoming year, I don't think I could have wished for anything better. We have been so lucky and blessed with so much.
Looking ahead at the next 365 days, I look forward to many more weddings, more babies (to friends and family, not us again...just yet hehe), William's baptism, our two year anniversary, Adam moving closer to graduating, William's first birthday (yikes!! I know the time will fly!) and so much more. I pray we will be blessed with another healthy and happy year to come!!
Looking back at 2010, I can't help but feel so lucky.
We were able to celebrate the marriage of so many friends and family this year - this took us on trips to Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, Toledo, OH, San Antonio, TX and Dominican Republic and some right here at home. We have seen friends blessed with babies! Adam and I celebrated our one year anniversary. Adam was accepted to the college he applied for to finish his degree! Most significantly, we welcomed our first bundle of joy, William!
If you had asked me on January 1st, 2010 to imagine the upcoming year, I don't think I could have wished for anything better. We have been so lucky and blessed with so much.
Looking ahead at the next 365 days, I look forward to many more weddings, more babies (to friends and family, not us again...just yet hehe), William's baptism, our two year anniversary, Adam moving closer to graduating, William's first birthday (yikes!! I know the time will fly!) and so much more. I pray we will be blessed with another healthy and happy year to come!!
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