And Another :)

B, your second tooth popped out today. You can barely see it, but it's there. The both of your little bottom chompers are so cute. And you love putting them to practice...you have been enjoying your puffs and your most recent love--organic cheerios. I keep trying to take pictures of them so I can add them to your collection, but you keep your tongue over your teeth every time you see the camera. One day I will catch you! BTW, I HATE the new blogger set up and change. Would have been nice if they gave us some notice of the pending changes. I can't figure anything out :(

6 Months Old...Edited with correct height

(Just act like I posted this on April 12th :)

Baby B, you are now 6 months old...I guess that means I can't technically call you a baby anymore. You are growing and changing every day right before our eyes. I pulled out a few pictures of you to decorate my new work space and wow, it seems like you were just a tiny newborn curling on my chest. Now you are a big boy who keeps us all smiling.

Your personality is starting to show. You are lovable and as sweet as can be. You love attention and are happy when you are playing and observing your brother. You also like your quiet time to just sit and absorb the world around you. I think your dad calls that "processing" and just like him, you process when you are in a new environment or around new people. You are extremely vocal and talk and talk and talk. It's actually pretty funny. You hold conversations with us and the tone and inflection in your voice change along with your facial expressions.

As for the milestones, you can sit up on your own for a little bit, but we still have to prop you up if you are going to stay sitting for any length of time. I know that if I just put you down or quit snuggling with you so much, you'd be an expert sitter (and roller by now). Oh well, it'll come. Speaking of rolling, you can go from tummy to back and I think back to tummy, but you haven't quite put it together that if you continue moving you can actual roll somewhere. Once you put two and two together--well, let's just keep things simple while you aren't mobile for now, LOL. You haven't had any teeth to pop through yet, but if the drooling and chewing of the fingers (and hands) is any indication, you are sooooo close. I can't yet feel any teeth right under your gums though, but they are there. Recently, you even discovered that your toes can reach your mouth (yes, it's comedy as well...up until you bite down on your toe too hard and have a fit). Your latest obsessions include cell phones, remote controls and your brother's iPad. You are a technology geek already. If any of those three things are within your reach, you go to town and enjoy yourself with them more than with your own toys. And don't let us take one of those from you, you will yell and swing at us like you are upset (and yeah, um, it's cute for now, but let's not make that a habit, okay?).

In the sleep department...well, you are still winning that battle. But I have to give you props, you are showing signs of promise. After your visit to the doc (more on that below), he encouraged us to step it up with the sleep training. He said no feedings AT ALL at night, but I am not that mean. So you go down for the night between 8pm and 9pm. You wake up around midnight for your "final feeding" and since you are stuck waking up every 2.5 or 3 hours, the past few nights, you have been up around 2:30am or 3am looking for food. We put the pacifier in your mouth, pat your back and let you whine (or cry) for as long as possible. Sometimes you fall back asleep for a few hours like you are supposed to. But alas, when mom is tired and your stomach is growling, I feel guilty and I will feed you. But I do try to make you wait as long as possible. So technically, that's one time a night that you are up as you will eat and sleep until 6 or 7am. So we are making progress...slow and steady I guess.

You are eating more food and definitely let us know what you like and what you don't like. Squash was your first food and you loved it two months ago. But now, well, let's just say you cry if it hits your tongue. You do the same with green beans. So yes, none of those things for us now. But you LOVE carrots. I mean, you love them. You can't get enough. You also like sweet potatoes and peas okay. As for fruits, you now eat apples, pears and prunes. You still have rice cereal on occasion but more often you are eating oatmeal cereal now. You are up to two full meals a day and you like meal time.

Maybe that's why you're tipping the scales and off the charts ;). Though you are smaller than J was at that age, you are still over the percentile in height and weight. You are weighing in at 21 pounds 6 ounces and I think you are 23 inches tall (I need to double check that). *Well, I was off...you are 26.75 inches now*

You had your first well baby visit with a new physician last week. Ironically, he used to be one of my pediatricians when I was a kid. I was actually treated by his uncle who was my main doctor, but when my uncle wasn't available, he checked me out. How cool is that. It was great to see him again and he's an awesome doc, so I know you are in good hands. Anyhow, the doctor was pleased with your health and your progress. You escaped shots this time around since your medical records haven't arrived from your old doctor, but you did have an oral vaccine. Dad enjoyed the lollipop that you would normally receive for being a good patient (and he almost broke the doctors scale, but that's another story for another time).

So I think that's it for month 6, baby B! You are doing amazingly well and are the happiest baby in town!

This Ish Isn't For Me

That was the line I was awakened with at 3am. And it was comical! B, you and dad have been having sleepovers together for the past two nights so mom can get a good night's rest in the guest room. You are still at the point where you are waking up every three hours to eat, and sometimes that's every two hours depending on your moods. So um, yeah, you have been hanging out with dad at night. The first night, you guys did great and after a mom rescue feeding around midnight and suctioning to your nose, I slept until 7am. Well, last night, between your waking up every two hours to eat and J sleepwalking and waking dad up three times before 3am, dad decided he had enough. So in you came at 3am smiling with all your gums out as dad handed you over to me with his proclimation that "this *$(% isn't for me." Why what do you mean big J? This is what happens EVERY night and you can't make it TWO nights? Come on man (quoting Sunday Night Countdown)...Welp, since I had been sleeping peacefully for four hours at that point, I gladly took you for a feeding and some snuggle time before we both went to sleep until 7am. But yeah, dad, this is what happens at night when you usually sleep through it.

Baby B--1; Dad--ZERO!!!!

The Mommy Paradox

We want to hold on, but we want to let go. We want to see the next milestone, but we want time to stand still. We want to soothe you, but we want you to learn to be independent. We want to protect you from all hurt, but we want you to learn from life's difficulties. We want to keep you by our sides forever, but we want you to grow wings and fly.

Just a few things sticking out in my head this morning as I think about my boys. B is becoming such a little man right before my eyes, yet it still seems like he should be a little newborn. It is amazing how many changes babies go through during the first year. I posted B's 5 months update a few days ago (scroll down), but yeah, he's just amazing. I look at him and I just can't put into words what I feel. I guess I could go on and on with the oxymorons that seem to apply, but yeah, it's bitter sweet to see him continuing to grow and thrive. Of course, I am overjoyed with each new discovery or development and I think with excitement about the day when he figures out how to crawl, walk and say mamma. (BTW, he's babbling da-da now first...boo, LOL). But B, can you just snuggle with mom a little longer please? Your big brother is far too independent to do so and yeah, the coolness of mom gets replaced quickly by the "boys" hanging together with dad. And um, so yep, they even have their own little special sign that they do that I can't be a part of. Woe is me :)

***Moving on***

It's another Monday around these parts and I am tired! We had a great weekend in Miami with the family and B got to put his toes in the swimming pool for the first time. It was a little chilly, so he didn't get to fully enjoy, but J--ie the fish, certainly got his fill of swimming. In addition, we got to hang out on South Beach and took in a Miami Heat game. How awesome to see J chanting and cheering with all the fans. He had a ball! Alas, back to reality today...

Pictures to come soon!

Five Months!

Baby B, you are five months old today! Though it seems like you were born just yesterday, at the same time, it seems like you've been here forever. Well, you are definitely not a newborn anymore. You are a full on little person with your own desires, likes and dislikes. I love that you aren't ashamed to let us know it too :). Let's see what are you up to at five months?

-You are probably right around 20 pounds now if I had to guess...Yep, you aren't missing any meals :).

-Speaking of meals, you are now eating one meal by spoon per day. You have organic brown rice cereal or organic brown rice cereal with apples. Just two days ago you started having organic squash. Mom finally broke out the baby bullet that Ranise got us and made some squash for you. While it's not your favorite, you're getting used to eating and seem to enjoy the process. We are sticking with the squash for a few more days, then we will go to sweet potatoes which I have a feeling you'll like much better.

-You are mostly wearing 6 months clothes. You can still fit into some 3 month outfits and have some 9 month that fit as well. You are in a size 3 diaper and a size 2 shoe.

-You LOVE making noises and discovering your voice. You were giving us "raspberries" all the time, but now, you love to squeal at the top of your lungs...and boy can you fuss when you feel like it! It's super cute (for now...)

-You are still waking up twice a night to eat (enough already, LOL). You usually go down around 9:30 or 10pm, wake up at 2am and 5am and then are up for the day at 7am. The good part is that you eat and go right back to sleep (not sure you even really wake up). The bad part, well, not really bad cause I like that time with you, but um yeah, we are tired over here baby boy! Looking forward to your sleeping in longer stretches...

-And um, yeah, your newest craze (TMI here) is pooping in the bathtub. I mean, really, is the tub THAT comfortable to you? LOL. Seems like that's just your "spot" and well, yeah, you just let it go...EEEKKK!

-Still no teeth in site, but you are a drooling machine, so I am thinking we'll feel something soon...no rush though.

-You can just about sit up on your own. When we prop you up like a tripod, you will stay there for a few seconds and eventually tilt over. You are definitely getting stronger though!

-You like spending time in your exersaucer and discovering the toys. Your legs are getting strong as while you are playing, you get excited and your little legs look like they are standing up!

I think that's it for now...you are a joy to have around and your smiles light up the room. You are a true charmer and love being fussed over. Here's to another great month!

I will update later with pics after your "photo shoot"

Rollin' in Style

I guess I should finish talking about baby products for a while before yall get bored with my blog...so just bear with me, I think this is the last one for a while...

Don't know how I forgot to talk about one of my favorite new purchases for B. It's his stroller! I think I may have mentioned that with J, I ended up buying four different strollers between the time he was a newborn and two years old. It seemed like none were multi-functional enough as he transitioned through the next stages. I had the stroller that went with his car seat/travel set that could be used either with the bucket seat or alone, the snap 'n go stroller for the car seat (which is a must have, btw), then I got a fancy peg perego full size stroller and a jogging stroller for the extra space. I have since either gifter or sold all of those. For B, I knew I didn't want the stroller/car seat travel set as it was too big and bulky for me. So we got the sit and stand deluxe so I could still have a portion on the back for J to either sit and stand when he got tired of walking and still have enough space to use it with B's car seat. That stroller is great, but yeah, it's big and heavy and can be a hassle. What bugs me the most about it is that it seems as though B is so far out of my reach since he's on the front portion of the stroller and J is in the back, but we use it and it's nice.

But then (*cue the cheesy ta dah music*) during one of my outings to BRU, I saw this beautiful thing...



It's the Lamaze Indigo Stroller. What I LOVE most about this is that I can move the seat and turn B facing me or facing out(of course now, I keep him in my direction). The seat reclines fully back or sits up. It has a fun little toy and the black and white design just plain looks great!

Now, this stroller doesn't have the best reviews online and while I take that into account before making a purchase, I always like to try things on my own. So I took it for a test drive at BRU and it worked for me. I haven't had any off the squeeky wheels or other issues that some reviewers point out. I have definitely had my share of strollers and this one ranks near the top.

I am in love with this stroller and I love it even more because I caught it on a great sale and was also able to use a 25% discount coupon. SCORE :)

Poor Sophie

Here I go on another baby product kick...After trying to figure out a good teether for B, I turned to my trusty friend Dr. Google and happened upon very positive reviews for Sophie the Giraffe. Sophie seems to be made in France and here's how they describe her:

Vulli's Sophie the Giraffe has been amusing babies for 50 years. Made of 100% natural rubber and food paint, the BPA- and phthalate-free Sophie is soothing and safe for your teething baby. Sophie’s unique design, pattern and texture stimulate all of your baby’s senses during playtime. She makes a happy sound when squeezed, stimulating hearing and helping your baby understand the link between cause and effect.
Sophie the Giraffe Teether by Vulli comes in natural rubber for baby's teething 0-12 months+. Sophie is the famous giraffe Sophie, who has been part of babies lives for more than 40 years. Slender, flexible, and soft, baby can squeeze and chew her in complete safety. Made of 100% Natural Rubber (phthalates Free) and food paint. Lovable and amusing, she makes a happy sound when her body is squeezed: Stimulate baby's hearing and helps him to understand the link between cause and effect. She is perfect for soothing Baby's sore gums when teething. The singular scent of Natural Rubber from the HEVEA TREE makes Sophie very special and easy for your child to identify amid all his other toys

Sounds great, right? So I ventured once again to BRU to find Sophie and wow, they have a whole set up of Sophie items. Instead of trying one of everything, I did well and just got one Sophie and rushed home for B to try it. Let me tell you, from the first moment, Sophie had no chance. B grabbed it and went to chewing and gnawing immediately. He loves it. As a teether, it's great because there are many different sides and sizes that can meet his mouth. It's super soft and smells yummy and it's just the right size where B can grasp and hold on to it. So yeah, Sophie is a winner in the house. It's a little pricey, but worth the money!

Check him out :)

Uhhhhhhh

Don't you hate when you can't remember things??? Well, ideas for my blog posts hit me at random times during the day (SN: gotta start taking notes). I had my post for today all mapped out and alas, at the computer and can't for the life of me remember what I was going to write...Oh well...I guess this'll just be a quick hit until I remember.

B did well at the sitter/my friend's house yesterday on day one. He was a good baby and they agreed to have him back :). From all reports, he was pleasant for them and only got a little fussy when he was sleeping. He had so much fun that he celebrated by taking a three hour nap when we got home! Whew....So despite the fact that I wanted to get some mom time in with my little one, I did enjoy his sleeping so I could wash, clean and cook dinner. We got lots and lots of baby snuggles when he woke up, took his bath and played before bed.

And J is officially trying to be a true big boy. He waited in the car circle at school yesterday with my friend's daughter and got picked up and went home with them. We usually go to his classroom to pick him up before school is dismissed...Oh my baby! Next, he will be riding the bus (which he would LOVE if mommy let him do it...um, NO--well, not yet)...

So that's it for now. Off to list some stuff on Craig's List and do some work.

Later dolls and dudes :)

Back At It

...And I don't really know how to feel...So yes, today is day one back at work. It seems like it's been a long and short three+ months at home with my three guys. I never thought I could be the stay-at-home mom type and I still don't, so I guess I am conflicted.

I don't really want to be here. I miss the days when I used to LOVE my job...When I looked forward to coming into the office every day and making an impact...Now, it's more like I go through the motions (still doing a great job along the way) just to get my paycheck. The job is more a means to an end right now rather than something I enjoy doing. So part of me doesn't feel like it's worth it to be away from my baby and being at home doing my best to keep the household in order for all three of my boys. Should I feel guilty about that?

Then the rational side of me tells me that I need to have a paycheck and by being here, I am taking care of them more than anything else. Don't get me wrong--the adult interaction and use of my brain is welcomed, but yeah, I am over it already (SN: I have only been here for 17 minutes...long day ahead). So to get started, this week, I am only here for two days this week and then from there, I will be in the office three days a week. I get a ton done in my limited time, probably more than all my co-workers, so I am not worried about my work suffering...I am more focused on my family.

I am very lucky to have found some wonderful sitters for J when he was younger (thanks Cheryl and Carisa). I can't imagine having the in daycare when they are so young. And I am lucky that baby B is in the capable hands of my friend/hairdresser and her husband while I am away. They have three adorable little girls (ages 7, 4 and 17 months), so they are experts in my book. So if you know me, you know that I can be very Type A, so yeah, we went over to their house over the weekend to put B's set up together. I brought over a pack-and-play and a swing and a plastic tub with all his essentials so that we only have to bring the baby and bottles every day. And yeah, as only I can do, I had my two pages of typed out notes for him as well as a baby journal so they can fill out notes about his day (ie when did he eat and how much? How many soiled diapers? Overall mood, etc). So thankfully they didn't get offended and laughed it off, but yeah, um, I hope they fill it out, LOL.

Okay, so back to this line up of conference calls today...Welcome back to me, right...

Big Number 3! .... UPDATED

Hey baby boy! You are three months old today!!!! We celebrated in grand style, by putting on your onesie with the "three month" sticker and having a photo shoot. Hopefully one day, you'll look back on all these pictures and marvel at your growth the same way we do each day when we look at you! So what have you been up to these days:

-You don't have an official doctor's appointment this month, so I don't have the official stats, but I think you are around 16 pounds right now. I am going to get you weighed and check you length in the next few day. Regardless of the specifics, you are a big, healthy baby.

-You are getting so very strong. You can hold your head up with the best of em and when you are laying down on your stomach, you can push up fully and look around. You scared me last night when I felt someone looking at me and realized you were peering over the side of your bassinet :)...Speaking of the bassinet, you are almost at the weight limit for it so you may be moving to the big crib soon!

-You are extremely social and I love it. You hold conversations with us and try so hard to get words out. Your little sounds are the best in the world and you respond just like you know exactly what you are trying to say.

-You light up when Joshua comes into the room. You love to see your big brother in action. Now that you are more aware and "talking" to him, Joshua loves all over you. He entertains you in the car and loves to be a helper for you, doing anything from putting your pacifier in your mouth to helping close diapers.

-Bath time still is one of your most favorite times of the day. You laugh and talk and laugh more. Just recently, you realized that if you move your feet, the water splashes up, so you are just a kicking and splashing until you get out the tub.

-You have also discovered your hands. You try your hardest to get your thumb in your mouth all the time. When you can't quite make it in there, you'll settle for putting your entire hand in your mouth and just sucking away. You love playing with your fingers.

-You are eating six ounces of formula every three hours. We tried a few times with rice cereal, but your little tummy doesn't yet like it, so we are sticking to milk. You drink your whole bottle (we just switched from the "baby" bottles to Tommee Tippie bottles and you like them okay) and burp like a champ!

-And wow baby boy, you waited until the eve of your three month birthday to SLEEP. Last night, you went down around 10:30pm and woke up at 4am, ate and went right back to sleep until 8:30am. Yay Brayden :). So mom only had to wake up once and it felt good. Of course, I kept checking on you all night to make sure you were okay, but you slept very well. Let's make sure this is a new pattern, okay? Thanks!

-All the newborn clothes are gone, over and done with. You are now in 3-6 month clothes. You have the cutest little shoes that I can't wait to get you in. Right now, you aren't really a fan of shoes, but you'll get there :)

I think that's about it. We'll transition to mom going back to work here shortly. I know you'll adjust just fine as you are the most easy-going, calm baby (except when you're hungry or sleepy). You love people and they love you! Of course, mom will miss you every second, but I am thankful to have all this time at home to snuggle with you all day and all night. We all love you to pieces.

Happy 3 months B!

***UPDATED*** My unofficial weigh-in for B suggests that he is 18 pounds now!!!! Holy batman boy! I am gonna say that maybe it's a little off, but um, yeah, he is "Beefy" as his Uncle Trey calls him :)

The Countdown is On

Only a little over a week before I head back to work. I have been very lucky to be able to have over three months at home with B. It's been awesome. J was born in the smack of an event, so he learned early on what life with mom would be like. I was at an event and at work when he was two weeks old (thanks to Mimi's help). So there was not really and leave per se with him. B's arrival came in between events...after my first football game and before my basketball event and bowl game. Because of the timing and extra support, I decided to maximize my leave. So with medical leave, saved vacation time and a few unpaid days, B will be almost 15 weeks before I go back to work. I don't have to tell you how that just doesn't happen for most folks who have to get back to work immediately. So I don't take it for granted. We have great arrangements for B when I return to work that hopefully will work smoothly. I am spending this week getting prepped for the transition. Granted I will only be in the office a few days a week, but those of you who know me IRL know that I want all the details ironed out so that we are ready to roll without incident. I am also trying to figure out what B's schedule is. I think I have a good idea about it, but I have pretty much been letting him dictate his own schedule, so I am not sure how I would write it down for someone else to follow. And alas...

***B is becoming a better sleeper***

Yes, that deserved its own line, LOL. Pretty much he's down by 9:30, wakes between 12:30am and 1am to eat and is right back to sleep. For the past few days, he's stretched out that sleep period until (can you believe it?) between 6am and 7am!!! Wooo hooo :)...then he'll go back to sleep until I am ready to wake him to get J off to school. He's done that two out of the last three nights, so now, I am calling it a new pattern (let's not jinx it). So that's technically only up once a night for mom and I am loving it. Let's hope it continues (and the church said AMEN). Of course, it will be nice when he eliminates that midnight feeding, but yes, I am celebrating this as a victory!

In other news, J is doing well at school and has gotten several wonderful reports. He's amazing to say the least! We are still debating organized sports for him and will probably take the leap sometimes soon. He LOVES his bowling team and is quite the bumper bowler, LOL. We shall see what's next...

And project "fit my clothes" is officially back on! I have a new pilates instructor and a bike, so yes, I am riding a mile to class and taking that butt whipping and riding a mile back home. So far, so good...

Love yall...Have a good Monday :)

And We're Back...

As you can tell from my previous (short) post, we are back home and back to reality. Sometimes that leaves very little free time for me and on a rare moment where I can steal away some peace and quiet, I opt for a nap (when I am lucky), but more often than not, I am in fast forward trying to clean the house, do laundry, wash dishes, cook dinner, talk to mom, reply to text messages and brush my teeth all at the same time :). Despite the craziness, it's good to be back home. I will have to admit that it was nice not to have to wash a bottle or prepare formula for eleven days (thanks mom) and it was even more nice (or nicer, which is correct?) to have extra arms to love on baby B and entertain J (thanks Guncle).

Anyhow, baby B, you are 12 weeks old today! It seems like the same chorus line on repeat, but really, um, where did the time go? You are an awesome baby and now you are even more amazing when you smile, talk and laugh with us. You LOVE talking to your big brother and have just recently discovered your hands and the connection between your hands and your mouth. Well, you'll be three months old next week, so I will save the full updates for that time. But yeah, so you have finished your last trimester according to the baby books. You are out and in the world and we wouldn't have it any other way :). I try not to miss a moment of enjoying the time that I spend with you and your brother and I am so grateful that I am still able to enjoy every day with you without the pressure of working right now.

J, you are such a big boy. I was sooooo proud of you this am. You were so super excited to be going back to school that you literally RAN down the hall when I dropped you off to get to your classroom. You are doing so well in school and are the smartest kid in the class (well, of course, I think so, but yeah, so do your teachers!!!). Keep up the good work :)

To recap the holidays and the past week or so (I know this is a bit out of order, but just indulge me)...B, you did super well on your first airline flight. The flight was about an hour and ten minutes and mom, dad and J were so proud of you. You ate upon take off, fell asleep for a little bit, talked to us and refused the bottle when we were descending. I was worried that you would be fussy with your ears and the change in pressure, but you didn't make a sound. I think you're going to be an expert flyer by the time you are four just like your brother!

The boys met lots and lots of family and friends while we were at home. With my grandmother's funeral, they were able to see and meet more family than they would have on a normal holiday visit, so that, of course, was bitter sweet. I am still trying to get over the sadness that my grandmother never got to meet baby B (so don't get me started on the emotions I still have when I think about how much my dad would have adored him...it chips away at my heart each time J asks for his PawPaw as well)...Anyhow, my uncle, aunt and cousins came to visit us and we had a grand time. We also enjoyed time with the boys' paternal grandmother and great aunts. Everyone is amazed with J's growth and the development of his language and capitvated by the new little man in the family.

We brought in the new year separated. Dad had to get back home to work and we stayed behind for a few more days. Nonetheless, we were all grateful and blessed to see the year turn on the calendar. As he usually does, J stayed up with Mimi to see the stroke of midnight and celebrate in his own little way. B and dad brought in the new year in their dreams. Mom hung out with Guncle a little bit and had a good time, but missed being together with everyone. Next year, we know our celebrations will be different as we will all plan to be in one place and start our own traditions!

Well, I think that's all for now. I leave you with one of my favorite pictures of my dudes...(as the little one now awakes for food--BTW, I added a teaspoon of rice cereal to his night bottle for the first time today, let's see how it goes...)

Love yall!

Double Digits

Baby boy, you are ten weeks old today! Wow...Looking back at some of the pictures (which seems like they were taken just yesterday), I have realized how you have changed so much. You are so much fun and we love talking to you and snuggling with you.

We have been super busy the past few days. Our bowl game went well last night and it was good for me to see my coworkers and friends. Of course, everyone was excited to see J and meet B...So after a few days in the hotel enjoying bowl week activities and spreading some Christmas cheer, we are back home. We'll have about a day to unpack, wash and repack before we head out of town for the holidays and I, for one, can't wait.

The holidays will be a little sad this year. I am trying to think of it positively by saying that I have gained another angel, but it's tough. Yesterday morning, my mawmaw passed away. She was hospitalized a brief time before she died. My dad's mom was awesome and always reminded me to appreciate the simple things in life. My heart is heavy that though she saw pictures of Baby B, she will never get to meet him or hold him. I am somewhat comforted by the fact that my daddy now has both of his parents with him in heaven and I pray that their spirits are all rejoicing together. But yeah, this sucks. In times like these, I wonder about faith and the fairness of it all. I am not going to get into it on this blog post, but that'll be coming soon.

We love you MawMaw (or Mamom as she preferred sometimes). Please watch over me and my boys. May you get your wings and be granted peace. Please hug my dad for me. You are both missed beyond measure!

No Judgment Zone

Something about pregnancy and having a newborn around seems to invite people to try to invoke their opinions about everything you do and every decision you make. I have matured enough in my years to finally know that I don't have to justify their opinions with a response or defend the choices that I make for myself or for my family, however, it does get O-L-D...Okay, before my rant goes too far, let me put this in context...

On the topic of choosing to breast feed B or not, I seem to have upset the masses because we have moved on from that and he's now exclusively receiving formula. I mean, damn, is this going to start the next foreign conflict or what? Everything isn't for every body! I know that we gave it a good go and he received breast milk for the first crucial weeks of his life, but like I said, it was in the best interest of my sanity and my family, that we ended it. And it wasn't even dramatic here, just went along with what he needed and the natural flow of things. I would like to think that I am educated enough to know all the benefits of breast milk and the down side to formula, so your reminding me of that doesn't help. And no, I don't feel like I am weak or less of a mother because I am not breast feeding. I feel just fine, I am empowered and I am confident that my baby boy is healthy and growing well...And if you've seen the pics of him lately, you know that he isn't missing any meals :)...

And okay, so if I choose not to have B fully vaccinated right now, again, that's OUR decision. I have heard from some that my unvaccinated child will be a risk of spreading some dreadful disease to your children because he's not fully protected. To those who feel that way, the answer is simple, stay away! We will catch up with you a few years down the line when B has been injected with all the (in my opinion) unnecessary poison to "protect" him...And while I am no expert in the matter, I do tend to believe there is a link between the increased level of vaccines that our children are mandated to receive and the increased level of autism and other developmental delays. I am willing to be totally off on that and incorrect, but again, that would be my mistake. If nothing else, I am giving B the benefit of having his shots and giving his system time to eliminate the indigestible toxins (ie mercury) that come along with them. So again, forgive my child if he sneezes on yours, I am sure your precious little one is exposed to much worse than a baby sneeze...(and stop smoking with the car windows up before you tell me anything else, LOL).

I'm on a roll now and could keep going about the "advice" that is passed my way or the opinions that I encounter more than I'd like. But just one more...So the hell what if I choose to hold my baby all day long (well, not all day, but you know what I mean). These little ones are only babies once and if he cries because he wants to be in my arms, then shit, I am gonna pick him up. It's that simple. This time next year, he will be running from me. I'll have to chase him to even get a hug and I know that cuddling with him will be out of the question as his independence will have taken over. So no, I don't believe that I am spoiling him or scarring him for life because he likes to be held by mommy. Hell, he's a baby. He's supposed to be held. I am not raising a mini adult here, I am raising my newborn son! I know that mom held me, well probably dad since I am a daddy's girl through and through, but my point is that my brother and I didn't see too much of the couch, bed or bouncy chair. We felt the warm arms and love of our parents and I'd like to say that we both turned out more than fine.

So let me end by saying the next time you want to open your mouth to me or any other new mommy for unsolicited advice, just please, think of what you are saying and how you're saying it. As for me and my house, we choose to live in a NO JUDGMENT ZONE!

Happy Weekend Everyone

It's FRIDAY :)...I guess that's reason for a happy dance, but around here, the days seem to flow together. Does that mean we've established a routine? Well, I guess we have some semblance of one, though added sleep would make it more productive. But at least, now that we're a week out from Mimi leaving, we pretty much know what to expect. I won't say that J has made it to school on time one time since mom has left though...but hey, there's always room for improvement, right?

I am sooooooo pleased to report that J had a good week at school. Yep, that's right...an entire week of great behavior and wonderful learning. Is he growing up??? Tear! That's my boy!

And in happy baby news, for the first time today, B took not one, but TWO car rides without screaming his lungs out of his chest. Granted our longest ride was 10 minutes, but hey, I will take what I can get. Is he growing up??? Double tears!!!

Anyhow, nothing really on tap for our weekend but family time, but hey, I'll take it.

I hope you and yours have a fabulous weekend and do something fun :)

Quick Hit

Just a quick update from B's 8 week check up today!

-He's doing great and progressing on schedule

-Current weight: 13 pounds, 12 ounces

-Current length: 23 3/4"

-B is in the 97th percentile in weight, height and head circumference. How's that for consistency?

-He received one shot and one oral vaccine today. I split up the shots, no way I was letting them give him four shots and the oral today. There's no harm in splitting them out and giving his system time to process and clear the toxins out. So we will return in a week or two to get the other shot. Don't get me on my vaccine soap box, this is a quick post for today :)

-B cried for about one minute after the shot while big J consoled him, then he ate and napped and with the Tylenol, he's been napping off and on most of the day.

That's all for now, great doctor's visit...More tomorrow.

Baby--1; Mom--0

Okay, so today B is celebrating the big eight week milestone! I won't say where has the time gone because I know I have repeated that chorus enough in this blog already...but seriously! Of course, B is an awesome baby and hitting the milestones beautifully, well in my book anyway :). He has a doctor's appointment tomorrow, so we shall get the official stats then. Anyhow, we are settling into a grove and J is enjoying his little brother, he especially loves showing him off to his preschool class daily.

Well, about this time when J was a baby, I decided that I was tired of the sleepless nights and would give sleep training a go. With the help of my best friend, Dr. Gary Ezzo, and his book BabyWise (no, I don't really know him), J was sleeping through the night (from about 10pm to 7am) within about a week of starting the training. Praise sweet baby Jesus :). So now that B is at the eight week mark, I figured now was as good of a time as any to get him started. So yesterday was day one...

And okay, so this method does not involve me letting him scream his head off until he falls asleep from exhaustion (just wanted to get that out there)...even though mommy wants to scream then sleep sometimes. So basically, it's changing their eating and sleeping patters to go from eat-sleep-wake-play to eat-wake-play-sleep and repeating the cycle every three hours. So then while B is eating, he has to stay awake and once he finishes his food, he has a period of play time or anything to keep him awake for at least an hour, then letting him fall asleep for the last part of the cycle. I won't get into the science of why or how this works, but I do know from my experience that it works.

So yesterday, armed with my four year old book and with my timeline and Itzbeen (another great mommy invention) on standby, we started day one. And well, for the most part, it went smoothly....up until we got to the last feeding before bed. So we got B fed, bathed and read for that LONG sleep stretch (okay, wishful thinking) but he decided that he was ready to talk and play. But how could you deny those loving coo sounds and sweet gummy smile? So we talked and laughed and admired this creation until HE decided that it was time for sleep. So once he slept, I passed out. And I will say that his first night time sleep period went from what was 2.5 to 3 hours to about 4 hours. Then he went back down without incident and woke up to eat 3 hours later. Small wins I guess...So we will take it...And though B gets the point for winning the sleep training on day one, we will try again tonight.

And now that he's napping now, we have an hour left before the cycle starts again, this keyboard is starting to look blurry :)...Off for a few winks for mom!

This is the Way We...

This is the way we brush our teeth...wash our hands...blow our nose...you name it...

Yall know that song we all sang when we were little as we immitated various behaviors. Well, lately, I think I need to sing that song to myself. Let me explain...

Some days, I literally don't know where the time goes. It's like I blink and it's dark outside and we're ready to start the bedtime routine to get ready for the next day. Now, I won't say that I get everything done in a day because that's far from the truth, but I manage to pull off a few things here and there. That doesn't mean that sometimes it's not until lunchtime when I realize that I haven't brushed my teeth or washed my face (sorry if you think that's TMI, but that's the reality of life with a newborn and preschooler)...But hey, at least like I said, I get it done, lol.

Between taking care of the boys and house and home, things are just on a slower timetable and the focus has shifted. So like one of my best friends said yesterday when the dishes go unwashed or the floor unmopped, I really don't care. I don't count it as a loss and I don't lament over the things piling up on the counter. I keep them all in the "to do" pile and move on to getting ready for the next day.

My boys are fed, clean, happy and thriving and that, to me is a mommy win!

This is the way...I roll :)

Not too Bad...

For one month post baby! I'll take it... Now, let's heal so I can get to the gym and get rid of the last portion of baby B's 9.5 month home :)

Eleven Eleven Eleven

So I guess baby B wanted to stick to the Eleven theme for the day. He had his four week check with the doctor this morning. We were all taking bets on how much weight he's gained and let's just say that we were all blown away. So here are his stats:

Baby Boy B
4 weeks, 2 days old
11 pounds, 2 ounces
22 inches

Yep, you read it right. Baby boy has passed the 11 pound mark. Whoa. At 2 weeks, he was almost 9 pounds, so he's holding steady gaining a pound a week. Meal time is still one of his favorite times. He's eating 4-5 ounces per feeding every three hours. I compared his stats to J and while J weighed more at birth, it seems that B is gaining more steadily and quickly. We will see how they compare at eight weeks.

Speaking of weight, I think I told yall that I went to the doctor earlier in the week too. Praise report--despite the major surgery I had last year and the c-section, I am healing well and much better than my (awesome) doctor expected. Okay, back to weight--probably the best news for me, well, you know what I mean...I am only three (count it 3!!!) pounds away from my pre-baby weight. Whoa. And that's without exercise or anything. It's not like I gained a ton, but I didn't expect to drop it this quickly either. Definitely one check in the "not complaining" box. I have all these lofty goals to start yoga (Ayo, I am gonna do it!) and pilates and get back to my running (love, love, love the "Black Girls Run" website) after I am cleared by the doctor in another few weeks, so holiday sexy--here I come...LOL!

Anyhow, back to the boys...Just so we all check in--J is holding STRONG at 64 pounds...CRAZY! At his four year old check up, he's over the curve (as he has been since he turned one) and is very tall (almost to my breasts). So looks like I will have two big men to protect mommy one day. Baby B is in the 90th percentile in weight, height and head measurements and as I said, Joshua is wayyyyy over the curve. But since they are proportional, the doc isn't concerned. Again, they will just be some big boys and I love every minute of that... #futureprosportsmom !

Well, I think that's it for today. I keep hearing that there's supposed to be some majestic thing in the air today and the ladies are overcrowding the area delivery rooms to have their babies today (nut cases), but yeah, well, I missed making a wish at 11:11 this morning, so since I know me and B will be doing the baby dance tonight, here's to a great wish come true at 11:11pm for us and for all of you.

Much love and happy weekend :)