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Location:New blog
2.17.2014
1.24.2014
Happy 9 months Henry!
My baby is 9 months old! He is getting so big! It has been such a joy watching this little boy grow up. Here are some things Henry's been up to:
- he throws major tantrums if you take something away from him
- he is always looking around to see his sister
- he bites!!!! This is the worst. Not only does he bite to the point of bleeding during nursing (I am so over this) but if I am just holding him, he bites my arm, my face, whatever he can get his little teeth around
- he has 8 teeth
- he can creep in all directions and do 360s
- he can get on his knees and rock
- he says mama a lot
- he has slept through the night once. But he still wakes up 2-3 times a night.
- he eats purées really well. His favorites are apples, pears, sweet potatoes, and a combo of spinach, pea and apple.
- he refuses a pacifier
- he takes a morning nap around 10 and an afternoon nap around 230.
- he nurses 4x a day and a couple more times at night :)
- he likes to sleep on his side or stomach
- he has the CUTEST smile!
- he looks very similar to Eloise at this age
9 months flew by! I'm already starting to plan a birthday party!!!
I am so blessed to be this little boys mama! I could snuggle him all day (well until he bites me).
He is 18 lbs 7 inches and 25% across the board (except his head is 90%)
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- he throws major tantrums if you take something away from him
- he is always looking around to see his sister
- he bites!!!! This is the worst. Not only does he bite to the point of bleeding during nursing (I am so over this) but if I am just holding him, he bites my arm, my face, whatever he can get his little teeth around
- he has 8 teeth
- he can creep in all directions and do 360s
- he can get on his knees and rock
- he says mama a lot
- he has slept through the night once. But he still wakes up 2-3 times a night.
- he eats purées really well. His favorites are apples, pears, sweet potatoes, and a combo of spinach, pea and apple.
- he refuses a pacifier
- he takes a morning nap around 10 and an afternoon nap around 230.
- he nurses 4x a day and a couple more times at night :)
- he likes to sleep on his side or stomach
- he has the CUTEST smile!
- he looks very similar to Eloise at this age
9 months flew by! I'm already starting to plan a birthday party!!!
I am so blessed to be this little boys mama! I could snuggle him all day (well until he bites me).
He is 18 lbs 7 inches and 25% across the board (except his head is 90%)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
1.16.2014
All about our Disney Vacation 2014
So, we are back and we are STILL recovering from our Disney Vacation! It went so well (except for the minor flight cancellation). I didn't know what to expect with a baby and a toddler, but it all worked out and our kids were ROCK STARS for most of the trip.
Recap time:
Our trip was originally scheduled for Monday January 6-Saturday January 11. Well, we woke up at 6:00am to get ready to leave for the airport for our flight to find out Jet Blue had cancelled our flight at 4 AM. It was a mad rush to find another flight to take that day. We finally got on a Spirit flight. We were so mad that we weren't going to be able to be getting the extra day (because the flight was later in the day), that we booked an extra night at a value resort (Art of Animation -- where we stayed last time) so that we could do pool and downtown disney. Our new flight wasn't leaving until 5:30pm which was delayed and delayed. We didn't end up taking off until 6:50pm. Henry did fine and just nursed and slept on the plane. Eloise did well with her iPad but by the end of the flight was getting very tired and cranky and was ready to go to sleep. We finally get our bags (because magical express doesn't pick them up if you land past 10pm) and get on a bus. The bus driver then announces it will take an hour to get to our hotel because they have two stops to make. Both kids fall asleep on the bus and we FINALLY make it to our resort at midnight.
We stayed at Bay Lake Towers at the Contemporary. It is a Disney Vacation Club one bedroom Villa. Usually, this would be about anywhere from $700-$800/night or more if you were to book it straight through Disney. But, we rented points which was such a blessing. We used www.dvcrequest.com and were so pleased! There was a huge king size bed, two bathrooms and a very big and spacious full kitchen and a pull out couch for Eloise. There was a washing machine and dryer IN THE HOTEL ROOM. This is huge for me, because I do a lot of laundry with Henry and Eloise. She had an accident one night and I was able to wash everything and it didn't make a difference. Plus, it was within walking distance to Magic Kingdom and the monorail runs right through. We paid a little over $2,000 for 5 nights, which is like about $400/night.
Where we stayed last time, Art of Animation, was great. We were really happy with it last time and said we would stay there again in a heartbeat. But, the buses were the big downfall for us. Having a double stroller, a toddler and a baby and all the 'stuff' that comes with having two kids in Disney, we wanted to avoid long bus rides as much as we could. Plus, that resort ended up being over $300/night. So for a much bigger room and the convenience of being so close to the parks we were willing to pay more, but not too much more! But, you do miss out on a much more kid friendly resort. Art of Animation had the more fun pools and decorations and the like. We were happy to have our final night there this trip to end our trip with super Disney magic.
With that being said, I think we will always try to rent points for the bigger place. It was nice sleeping on a comfortable, very big bed! And having enough room for everyone was fantastic.
Anyway, so since we had a full kitchen, we had groceries delivered using The Garden Grocer. That gave us the flexibility to do breakfast in our room every morning (well except one) and lunch and snacks if we needed to. Eloise at her signature "Cheese Sandwich" every night, because who eats the $30 kid meal that we paid for? Not her.
The groceries were waiting for us when we arrived in the middle of the night and so was our stroller which I rented again from Orlando Stroller Company. We actually brought a single umbrella stroller for Henry in the airport and it worked out well. That way, we had a single stroller for Julian to take Eloise at night to the parks after Henry was asleep. We used the double during the day when both kids were hanging out.
We also used A baby's best friend (abbf.com) and rented a full crib, high chair, and boppy pillow. That worked out well except we needed to meet with them in person so that stuff didn't arrive until the next morning.
DAY 1 : We went to Magic Kingdom!! Eloise was pretty cranky this morning because she went to bed at almost 1 am and was up by 730am. That is wayyyy less sleep than she is used to. So we took it easy and did breakfast in the room and go to the parks by 930. We rode rides and tried to pep up Eloise with lots of candy and sugar. It was very cold that day and we bought hats and gloves in the park. both kids were bundled up with blankets and jackets and hats. We ate lunch at the Pinocchio Haus which is a quick service that overlooks "It's a Small World" and we really enjoyed it. Eloise loved waving to the people on the ride and thus began her love affair with the "boat ride". She probably rode "It's a Small World" 7 times the whole trip and still talks about it. I would say it was by far her favorite ride. After lunch both kids fell asleep in the stroller and Julian and I got to ride Pirates while my mom and sister watched the sleeping children. Then I found the baby care center so I could nurse Henry when he was awake.
Thank goodness for Baby care centers. In Magic Kingdom, you walk in and these nice grandmotherly ladies show you to which room you are looking for. There is a nursing room with dimmed lighting and rocking chairs, there is a kitchen, a room with high chairs and a TV for feeding and a room with a bunch of changing tables. It was a fantastic place to get out of the cold and to sit quietly to nurse Henry.
After that, we did more rides! Julian has now become a pro with fast pass plus. He had the app on his phone and was able to get Eloise in on any ride she wanted without much wait. It was fantastic. Made life easier knowing we didn't have to spend time waiting on lines for the popular rides (Peter Pan, Teacups, etc) Then we headed to dinner at Tony's (The Lady and the Tramp themed restaurant). We went to bed early this night!!
This night is the night we found out our room (with a beautiful view of the Lake) was right where the electrical parade was at 1015pm. It was so loud that everyone woke up. Julian quickly changed our rooms the next day. Which meant we had to have everything packed up and ready to go the next morning. They moved our stuff for us while we headed to HollyWood Studios.
DAY 2: We were going to go to Animal Kingdom this day but with moving rooms and having to pack we skipped it and went straight to Hollywood Studios. The first thing we did was see the Disney Junior Live show and Eloise LOVED it again. Last year when we went she loved it and this year she loved it. This time it was Doc McStuffins and Sofia and Jake. She had such a smile on her face, this was definitely one of the high lights of this trip.! After that she rode a Toy Story ride and I went to the baby care center to nurse Henry. WORST BABYCARE CENTER EVER. After Magic Kingdom, I had high expectations. It was small and cramped and not good at.all. After that I met everyone for lunch at Hollywood and Vine. This was a character lunch with Disney Junior Characters. The characters we had were Oso, Jake, June and Handy Manny. It was just OK. It was pretty expensive for a pretty bad buffet. Eloise wasn't really into the characters and Henry is very against any sort of character so we definitely won't be doing this one again.
After lunch Henry was having a tough time of it. He wouldn't stop crying FOR ANYTHING. I even tried to leave my mom with him so I could ride rides with my sister and Julian while Eloise slept. But, that didn't work out. I finally just nursed him on a bench to sleep because he was just inconsolable. Julian and my sister did a ride and then we decided to go back to the hotel to get ready for our dinner!
Dinner at Cinderella's Castle was amazing. If we can, we will continue to do that every.time.we.go. The food was good and the atmosphere was great. It was a pre-paid dinner and was pretty expensive but each princess spent ample time with Eloise. I mean like they were WONDERFUL with her AND Henry. Snow White played peek-a-boo with Henry. Princess Aurora played Aurora figurines with Eloise at our table for probably 10 minutes. She got to play her favorite thing (princess figurines) with her favorite princess (Aurora) I mean she was beyond elated. All the princesses spent a lot of time talking and whispering with her. It was so worth the money. And the princesses must study their character bc aurora knew about all the details of her story.
After dinner, my mom and I took Henry back and my sister and Julian took Eloise to do more rides.
What was really nice was we were able to walk back to our hotel while Henry slept in the stroller this night AND I could watch the fireworks from our hotel room. AMAZING. So even though Eloise and Julian got to see them in the parks, I still saw them from my room in my pajamas :)
DAY 3: Epcot Day! We did breakfast in the room again this day and headed to Epcot. As soon as we got there I could tell Henry wasn't going to be sleeping in the stroller so I headed right to the baby care center so I could nurse him to sleep. This worked out well because my Aunt Judy was meeting us and we didn't add her to our lunch reservation. I just dipped out of lunch and she took my spot. They did some character meeting and ate at the princess place in Norway, which they said was OK. Julian said the food was fine but after just doing Cinderellas castle , it was not as good. The princesses didn't spend as much time with her which was a big plus of Cinderella's Castle.
We met up afterward and walked around Epcot while the kids napped. All the other adults did adult rides and Julian and I just hung out and walked and talked. It started raining about an hour into their nap and they woke up. We decided to cancel our dinner reservation in Mexico and just go back to the room and get pizza. Everyone agreed and they all met up in our room and we had pizza. Then Henry and I did bedtime and everyone else went back to Magic Kingdom once the rain stopped for more rides.
DAY 4: Back to Magic Kingdom Day! But,first we had breakfast with everyone at Chef Mickeys. We really loved breakfast here and Eloise really enjoyed seeing all the characters and wasn't shy with them. She hugged them and we were able to get some good pictures. After breakfast we headed back to Magic Kingdom to do more rides. We ate lunch at Pinocchio Haus again because we liked it so much. After lunch the kids slept and we headed back for the pool. While they napped, we walked around, got a frozen banana and walked back to our resort which was a plus of staying at Bay Lake Towers. Then we got them ready for the pool and headed there. We spend the rest of the afternoon at the pool and we had dinner with everyone at our resort at The Wave. VERY VERY good in my opinion, but super expensive.
The next day we were originally leaving, and my mom and sister actually did leave. We added on another day so we could do another pool day and see Downtown Disney which Julian really wanted to see. So in the morning, Bell Service moved our luggage to our next resort (Art of Animation) and we headed to Downtown Disney. It worked out well because the kids slept while we were able to explore and when they woke up we got a fast lunch and headed to our new resort for a pool day. We really enjoyed having this extra pool day. Then we had an early flight in the morning!
We had so much fun and can't wait to start planning our next trip which we think will be September 2015!! I really want to stay at the Villas at the Grand Floridian next time so we will see how that works! I also need to upload the pictures to the computer so I can add them! We will see when that happens....
Recap time:
Our trip was originally scheduled for Monday January 6-Saturday January 11. Well, we woke up at 6:00am to get ready to leave for the airport for our flight to find out Jet Blue had cancelled our flight at 4 AM. It was a mad rush to find another flight to take that day. We finally got on a Spirit flight. We were so mad that we weren't going to be able to be getting the extra day (because the flight was later in the day), that we booked an extra night at a value resort (Art of Animation -- where we stayed last time) so that we could do pool and downtown disney. Our new flight wasn't leaving until 5:30pm which was delayed and delayed. We didn't end up taking off until 6:50pm. Henry did fine and just nursed and slept on the plane. Eloise did well with her iPad but by the end of the flight was getting very tired and cranky and was ready to go to sleep. We finally get our bags (because magical express doesn't pick them up if you land past 10pm) and get on a bus. The bus driver then announces it will take an hour to get to our hotel because they have two stops to make. Both kids fall asleep on the bus and we FINALLY make it to our resort at midnight.
We stayed at Bay Lake Towers at the Contemporary. It is a Disney Vacation Club one bedroom Villa. Usually, this would be about anywhere from $700-$800/night or more if you were to book it straight through Disney. But, we rented points which was such a blessing. We used www.dvcrequest.com and were so pleased! There was a huge king size bed, two bathrooms and a very big and spacious full kitchen and a pull out couch for Eloise. There was a washing machine and dryer IN THE HOTEL ROOM. This is huge for me, because I do a lot of laundry with Henry and Eloise. She had an accident one night and I was able to wash everything and it didn't make a difference. Plus, it was within walking distance to Magic Kingdom and the monorail runs right through. We paid a little over $2,000 for 5 nights, which is like about $400/night.
Where we stayed last time, Art of Animation, was great. We were really happy with it last time and said we would stay there again in a heartbeat. But, the buses were the big downfall for us. Having a double stroller, a toddler and a baby and all the 'stuff' that comes with having two kids in Disney, we wanted to avoid long bus rides as much as we could. Plus, that resort ended up being over $300/night. So for a much bigger room and the convenience of being so close to the parks we were willing to pay more, but not too much more! But, you do miss out on a much more kid friendly resort. Art of Animation had the more fun pools and decorations and the like. We were happy to have our final night there this trip to end our trip with super Disney magic.
With that being said, I think we will always try to rent points for the bigger place. It was nice sleeping on a comfortable, very big bed! And having enough room for everyone was fantastic.
Anyway, so since we had a full kitchen, we had groceries delivered using The Garden Grocer. That gave us the flexibility to do breakfast in our room every morning (well except one) and lunch and snacks if we needed to. Eloise at her signature "Cheese Sandwich" every night, because who eats the $30 kid meal that we paid for? Not her.
The groceries were waiting for us when we arrived in the middle of the night and so was our stroller which I rented again from Orlando Stroller Company. We actually brought a single umbrella stroller for Henry in the airport and it worked out well. That way, we had a single stroller for Julian to take Eloise at night to the parks after Henry was asleep. We used the double during the day when both kids were hanging out.
We also used A baby's best friend (abbf.com) and rented a full crib, high chair, and boppy pillow. That worked out well except we needed to meet with them in person so that stuff didn't arrive until the next morning.
DAY 1 : We went to Magic Kingdom!! Eloise was pretty cranky this morning because she went to bed at almost 1 am and was up by 730am. That is wayyyy less sleep than she is used to. So we took it easy and did breakfast in the room and go to the parks by 930. We rode rides and tried to pep up Eloise with lots of candy and sugar. It was very cold that day and we bought hats and gloves in the park. both kids were bundled up with blankets and jackets and hats. We ate lunch at the Pinocchio Haus which is a quick service that overlooks "It's a Small World" and we really enjoyed it. Eloise loved waving to the people on the ride and thus began her love affair with the "boat ride". She probably rode "It's a Small World" 7 times the whole trip and still talks about it. I would say it was by far her favorite ride. After lunch both kids fell asleep in the stroller and Julian and I got to ride Pirates while my mom and sister watched the sleeping children. Then I found the baby care center so I could nurse Henry when he was awake.
Thank goodness for Baby care centers. In Magic Kingdom, you walk in and these nice grandmotherly ladies show you to which room you are looking for. There is a nursing room with dimmed lighting and rocking chairs, there is a kitchen, a room with high chairs and a TV for feeding and a room with a bunch of changing tables. It was a fantastic place to get out of the cold and to sit quietly to nurse Henry.
After that, we did more rides! Julian has now become a pro with fast pass plus. He had the app on his phone and was able to get Eloise in on any ride she wanted without much wait. It was fantastic. Made life easier knowing we didn't have to spend time waiting on lines for the popular rides (Peter Pan, Teacups, etc) Then we headed to dinner at Tony's (The Lady and the Tramp themed restaurant). We went to bed early this night!!
This night is the night we found out our room (with a beautiful view of the Lake) was right where the electrical parade was at 1015pm. It was so loud that everyone woke up. Julian quickly changed our rooms the next day. Which meant we had to have everything packed up and ready to go the next morning. They moved our stuff for us while we headed to HollyWood Studios.
DAY 2: We were going to go to Animal Kingdom this day but with moving rooms and having to pack we skipped it and went straight to Hollywood Studios. The first thing we did was see the Disney Junior Live show and Eloise LOVED it again. Last year when we went she loved it and this year she loved it. This time it was Doc McStuffins and Sofia and Jake. She had such a smile on her face, this was definitely one of the high lights of this trip.! After that she rode a Toy Story ride and I went to the baby care center to nurse Henry. WORST BABYCARE CENTER EVER. After Magic Kingdom, I had high expectations. It was small and cramped and not good at.all. After that I met everyone for lunch at Hollywood and Vine. This was a character lunch with Disney Junior Characters. The characters we had were Oso, Jake, June and Handy Manny. It was just OK. It was pretty expensive for a pretty bad buffet. Eloise wasn't really into the characters and Henry is very against any sort of character so we definitely won't be doing this one again.
After lunch Henry was having a tough time of it. He wouldn't stop crying FOR ANYTHING. I even tried to leave my mom with him so I could ride rides with my sister and Julian while Eloise slept. But, that didn't work out. I finally just nursed him on a bench to sleep because he was just inconsolable. Julian and my sister did a ride and then we decided to go back to the hotel to get ready for our dinner!
Dinner at Cinderella's Castle was amazing. If we can, we will continue to do that every.time.we.go. The food was good and the atmosphere was great. It was a pre-paid dinner and was pretty expensive but each princess spent ample time with Eloise. I mean like they were WONDERFUL with her AND Henry. Snow White played peek-a-boo with Henry. Princess Aurora played Aurora figurines with Eloise at our table for probably 10 minutes. She got to play her favorite thing (princess figurines) with her favorite princess (Aurora) I mean she was beyond elated. All the princesses spent a lot of time talking and whispering with her. It was so worth the money. And the princesses must study their character bc aurora knew about all the details of her story.
After dinner, my mom and I took Henry back and my sister and Julian took Eloise to do more rides.
What was really nice was we were able to walk back to our hotel while Henry slept in the stroller this night AND I could watch the fireworks from our hotel room. AMAZING. So even though Eloise and Julian got to see them in the parks, I still saw them from my room in my pajamas :)
DAY 3: Epcot Day! We did breakfast in the room again this day and headed to Epcot. As soon as we got there I could tell Henry wasn't going to be sleeping in the stroller so I headed right to the baby care center so I could nurse him to sleep. This worked out well because my Aunt Judy was meeting us and we didn't add her to our lunch reservation. I just dipped out of lunch and she took my spot. They did some character meeting and ate at the princess place in Norway, which they said was OK. Julian said the food was fine but after just doing Cinderellas castle , it was not as good. The princesses didn't spend as much time with her which was a big plus of Cinderella's Castle.
We met up afterward and walked around Epcot while the kids napped. All the other adults did adult rides and Julian and I just hung out and walked and talked. It started raining about an hour into their nap and they woke up. We decided to cancel our dinner reservation in Mexico and just go back to the room and get pizza. Everyone agreed and they all met up in our room and we had pizza. Then Henry and I did bedtime and everyone else went back to Magic Kingdom once the rain stopped for more rides.
DAY 4: Back to Magic Kingdom Day! But,first we had breakfast with everyone at Chef Mickeys. We really loved breakfast here and Eloise really enjoyed seeing all the characters and wasn't shy with them. She hugged them and we were able to get some good pictures. After breakfast we headed back to Magic Kingdom to do more rides. We ate lunch at Pinocchio Haus again because we liked it so much. After lunch the kids slept and we headed back for the pool. While they napped, we walked around, got a frozen banana and walked back to our resort which was a plus of staying at Bay Lake Towers. Then we got them ready for the pool and headed there. We spend the rest of the afternoon at the pool and we had dinner with everyone at our resort at The Wave. VERY VERY good in my opinion, but super expensive.
The next day we were originally leaving, and my mom and sister actually did leave. We added on another day so we could do another pool day and see Downtown Disney which Julian really wanted to see. So in the morning, Bell Service moved our luggage to our next resort (Art of Animation) and we headed to Downtown Disney. It worked out well because the kids slept while we were able to explore and when they woke up we got a fast lunch and headed to our new resort for a pool day. We really enjoyed having this extra pool day. Then we had an early flight in the morning!
We had so much fun and can't wait to start planning our next trip which we think will be September 2015!! I really want to stay at the Villas at the Grand Floridian next time so we will see how that works! I also need to upload the pictures to the computer so I can add them! We will see when that happens....
12.25.2013
Buddy is 8 months old!
What a big boy I have! Henry is growing up fast. He is such a happy boy, we call him Happy Henry! Sorry this is late, buddy! Christmas and planning for our vacation kind of distracted me!
Here's what our little buddy is up to these days:
- he can clap
- he says mama, baba, dada, nana
- he still wakes up multiple times a night
- he is a side/stomach sleeper
- he isn't doing well with purées I can hardly get anything in his mouth. Very frustrating when he should be eating. He's a boob man I guess
- he smiles a lot.
- he still scratches but his eczema is like sooooooo much better.
- he likes to high five daddy (it's their thing)
- he has 8 teeth
- he still doesn't have much hair
- he can do 360s on his belly and can almost get on his knees. Crawling is a whole other thing.I'm not quite ready. Apparently neither is he.
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Here's what our little buddy is up to these days:
- he can clap
- he says mama, baba, dada, nana
- he still wakes up multiple times a night
- he is a side/stomach sleeper
- he isn't doing well with purées I can hardly get anything in his mouth. Very frustrating when he should be eating. He's a boob man I guess
- he smiles a lot.
- he still scratches but his eczema is like sooooooo much better.
- he likes to high five daddy (it's their thing)
- he has 8 teeth
- he still doesn't have much hair
- he can do 360s on his belly and can almost get on his knees. Crawling is a whole other thing.I'm not quite ready. Apparently neither is he.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
12.10.2013
Disney 2014 planning!
I can't believe our Disney trip is less than a month away!!! I love all things Disney and I am excited to bring our family of four there!
Anyway,
I don't really like sharing one hotel room with my kids. At least not now. Probably not ever. I like for Julian and I to have some space. Last year, well 2012, we took Eloise to Disney and stayed in a value resort family suite! The Art of Animation and It was great! It was a cheaper option and we didn't have to share a room with Eloise. The only downside was the buses. Because it's a value resort, it's further from the parks, which makes for longer bus rides. We knew this time we wanted to be closer to the parks but still have more than one room.
Unfortunately, there's no such thing in the moderate category ( wilderness lodge cabins maybe? But it's one bedroom with three beds). So we found David's Vacation Rentals! I can't say how great it is because we haven't actually gone yet, but so far I am really happy with everything. We are at a high end resort (Bay Lake Tower at the contemporary) with a monorail, in a one bedroom villa with a full kitchen and washer/dryer, two bathrooms from Jan 6-11 for just about $2000. That's 5 nights at about $200/night. NOT BAD. The Art of Animation was over $150 a night and even though we had a good experience it wasn't a full kitchen, and it was a long bus ride. I feel it is totally worth it, but I guess we have to wait and see once we are there.
I also used "the garden grocer" and I am having groceries delivered to our room as well as diapers and such (less to pack). Another resource we used is "a baby's best friend". It is a website where you can rent pretty much anything for baby. We are getting a full size crib, boppy pillow, and high chair. And, like last time, we are using Orlando Stroller Company to rent a double stroller.
As far as dining goes, we have made reservations for most lunches, all dinners, and one breakfast. Most breakfasts we can eat in our full size kitchen (!!!) with the ordered groceries (!!!).
We have reservations at Cinderellas castle, chef mickeys, Hollywood and vine, Mexico and and Norway!
I can't wait to share our experience this time with how everything went!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Anyway,
I don't really like sharing one hotel room with my kids. At least not now. Probably not ever. I like for Julian and I to have some space. Last year, well 2012, we took Eloise to Disney and stayed in a value resort family suite! The Art of Animation and It was great! It was a cheaper option and we didn't have to share a room with Eloise. The only downside was the buses. Because it's a value resort, it's further from the parks, which makes for longer bus rides. We knew this time we wanted to be closer to the parks but still have more than one room.
Unfortunately, there's no such thing in the moderate category ( wilderness lodge cabins maybe? But it's one bedroom with three beds). So we found David's Vacation Rentals! I can't say how great it is because we haven't actually gone yet, but so far I am really happy with everything. We are at a high end resort (Bay Lake Tower at the contemporary) with a monorail, in a one bedroom villa with a full kitchen and washer/dryer, two bathrooms from Jan 6-11 for just about $2000. That's 5 nights at about $200/night. NOT BAD. The Art of Animation was over $150 a night and even though we had a good experience it wasn't a full kitchen, and it was a long bus ride. I feel it is totally worth it, but I guess we have to wait and see once we are there.
I also used "the garden grocer" and I am having groceries delivered to our room as well as diapers and such (less to pack). Another resource we used is "a baby's best friend". It is a website where you can rent pretty much anything for baby. We are getting a full size crib, boppy pillow, and high chair. And, like last time, we are using Orlando Stroller Company to rent a double stroller.
As far as dining goes, we have made reservations for most lunches, all dinners, and one breakfast. Most breakfasts we can eat in our full size kitchen (!!!) with the ordered groceries (!!!).
We have reservations at Cinderellas castle, chef mickeys, Hollywood and vine, Mexico and and Norway!
I can't wait to share our experience this time with how everything went!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
12.06.2013
Rough days
Eloise and I had a rough day today. Since she's been so sick lately, we have spent a lot of time just hanging around. It's getting to both of us and she is really making me lose my patience. She has been super naughty today and at bedtime we prayed for a better day tomorrow for both of us. More patience for me and a better attitude for her. God answers prayers, right? I love her so much and I want her to feel that but willful disobedience makes me nuts. Even if I know it's partly bc of cabin fever. There is nothing I wouldn't do for her. I guess that's part of being mom.
Anyway, here's a big iPhone dump of life lately:
Henry was supposed to be sleeping.
Having fun while sissy naps
My buddy and me
Eloise at the ER after the bloody vomit incident. Ugh pneumonia.
My poor baby after she had to get the IV
Our new advent calendar that Eloise loves
She used a whole box of tissues during nap
Playing with the new calico critter house
Kisses for sissy after she woke up from nap.
Me and my girl. She tests my patience some days and wears me out once in a while but MAN I love her anyway!
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Anyway, here's a big iPhone dump of life lately:
Henry was supposed to be sleeping.
Having fun while sissy naps
My buddy and me
Eloise at the ER after the bloody vomit incident. Ugh pneumonia.
My poor baby after she had to get the IV
Our new advent calendar that Eloise loves
She used a whole box of tissues during nap
Playing with the new calico critter house
Kisses for sissy after she woke up from nap.
Me and my girl. She tests my patience some days and wears me out once in a while but MAN I love her anyway!
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11.26.2013
Eloise is 3!!!
Happy birthday sweet Eloise!!
These past three years have been amazing. I love everything about watching you grow up. It's crazy to me it was three years ago that I became your mommy, because I feel as if I always was.
Eloise as a 3 year old:
- wears size 3t
- loves Nutella
- loves to sing and dance
- favorite toys are calico critters, barbies and princesses.
- loves to carry bags of friends everywhere
- super sweet with Buddy (Henry).
- very compassionate towards others
- potty trained! You have accidents once in a while but it's not something that happens often
- still love "lovey and paci"
- starting to tolerate baths again-it used to be a much bigger fight.
- loves chocolate!
- goes to school two mornings a week
- still naps everyday
- wears a dress or skirt over everything (including pajamas)
- favorite show is little Einsteins STILL but you also love super why, Jake, Mickey Mouse, and Sofia.
- very shy with new people
- loves PINK
- loves to laugh and make people laugh
- not really into dogs. Tolerates them at best.
- loves to "nub rub"
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These past three years have been amazing. I love everything about watching you grow up. It's crazy to me it was three years ago that I became your mommy, because I feel as if I always was.
Eloise as a 3 year old:
- wears size 3t
- loves Nutella
- loves to sing and dance
- favorite toys are calico critters, barbies and princesses.
- loves to carry bags of friends everywhere
- super sweet with Buddy (Henry).
- very compassionate towards others
- potty trained! You have accidents once in a while but it's not something that happens often
- still love "lovey and paci"
- starting to tolerate baths again-it used to be a much bigger fight.
- loves chocolate!
- goes to school two mornings a week
- still naps everyday
- wears a dress or skirt over everything (including pajamas)
- favorite show is little Einsteins STILL but you also love super why, Jake, Mickey Mouse, and Sofia.
- very shy with new people
- loves PINK
- loves to laugh and make people laugh
- not really into dogs. Tolerates them at best.
- loves to "nub rub"
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11.25.2013
Henry is 7 Months old!!!
When did my baby get to be so old? You know how you always feel a certain age (ahem...28). Well, I feel Like Henry is 4 months. But, 7?!?! Wow, his babyhood is flying by. Before I know it we will be celebrating his birthday! Yikes!
Anyway, things buddy has been up to...
- he sits very well on his own. Hardly ever falls!
- No More Helmet!!!! We are done! It was a long 10 weeks but I'm glad we did it and I am glad we are done!
- he eats 3 "solid meals" a day. He is still in stage one foods and sometimes he doesn't eat much, but I offer three times a day. He seems to like bananas, pears, squash and sweet potatoes. He doesn't seem to like green beans or peas. I am not giving him oatmeal or rice cereal because I feel he had a little reaction. I'll talk to the dr about it this month.
- his absolute favorite is a peter rabbit organic baby food pouch that is carrots, squash, and apple. He eats the whole pouch for dinner.
- he nurses a bunch all day. No schedule <---- bad="" mommy="" p="">-He smiles ALL the time except if I try to take a picture haha! It's a really cute cheesy smile, too! He also Loves his sister big time. He is always smiling and laughing at her. He also loves his daddy and smiles at him all the time as well.
-- he is in mostly 9 month and some 12 month clothing! Crazy boy!
-- we have nicknamed him "Happy Henry" because he is literally always happy. Now, in the car, it's a different story. He is not so much a fan. He scream
Cries if he isn't sleeping.
-we are currently trying to drop his 3rd nap. We are in that awkward stage where if he took one it would be too late (5:30)but he's overtired by bedtime (6:30). I'm hoping to work this two nap thing because it would be way more convenient for life.
- he still only has three teeth.
- he scratches his head when he is tired.
- his eczema is back ugh.
- he seems to love Duke but doesn't laugh at him like Eloise used to.
- He Loves his jumper and will jump jump jump happily while I get stuff done.
-- he is in mostly 9 month and some 12 month clothing! Crazy boy!
-- we have nicknamed him "Happy Henry" because he is literally always happy. Now, in the car, it's a different story. He is not so much a fan. He scream
Cries if he isn't sleeping.
-we are currently trying to drop his 3rd nap. We are in that awkward stage where if he took one it would be too late (5:30)but he's overtired by bedtime (6:30). I'm hoping to work this two nap thing because it would be way more convenient for life.
- he still only has three teeth.
- he scratches his head when he is tired.
- his eczema is back ugh.
- he seems to love Duke but doesn't laugh at him like Eloise used to.
- He Loves his jumper and will jump jump jump happily while I get stuff done.
-He is 17 lbs exactly and 25% for his weight still.
I am just so beyond blessed to have the perfect little boy. He hardly ever fusses (except in the car) and he is so easygoing! I can't wait to see if this is truly his personality. He looks so much like Eloise I cannot even believe it!
(Pictures to come!)
I am just so beyond blessed to have the perfect little boy. He hardly ever fusses (except in the car) and he is so easygoing! I can't wait to see if this is truly his personality. He looks so much like Eloise I cannot even believe it!
(Pictures to come!)
11.17.2013
I love you anyway
This is just something that I never want to forget...
Lately, before bed or nap, Eloise will say "goodnight, I love you anyway" and I'll say it back to her.
It all started about a month ago when we started reading Olivia before bed. At the end of the book the mommy says," you know you really wear me out but I love you anyway". And Olivia says to her mom," I love you anyway, too".
Eloise asked me what that meant and I explained that no matter what kids do or say, mommies will always love them anyway. And from then on she has started saying it.
I've got the cutest girl in the world!
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Lately, before bed or nap, Eloise will say "goodnight, I love you anyway" and I'll say it back to her.
It all started about a month ago when we started reading Olivia before bed. At the end of the book the mommy says," you know you really wear me out but I love you anyway". And Olivia says to her mom," I love you anyway, too".
Eloise asked me what that meant and I explained that no matter what kids do or say, mommies will always love them anyway. And from then on she has started saying it.
I've got the cutest girl in the world!
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11.15.2013
Citrus Lane Review
Citrus Lane is a monthly box company of the newest, coolest baby things. I was lucky enough to receive it as a gift from my sister right when Henry was born for three months. I really liked the products that I got, so I signed him up for another 6 months. But, I wanted to make sure it's worth the money so I figured I'd do a little review of what we get each month and if we like it and the cost benefit.
First of all, it costs $25/month unless you sign up for 6 months or more (which we did). So,for us, we are paying $21/month and it is free shipping.
Ok, so our November box included:
-A tug boat bath toy made by green toys
-a skip hop bowl
- a bumkins bib
- a sample size babygenics bath wash for dry/sensitive skin
- lip balm for mom by pur lisse
So, would I have spent $21 on this stuff? First of all, Henry absolutely needs new bibs, bowls, etc. So, I would be buying this regardless. Also, he has no bath toys, so that's a good toy to get. As far as bath wash and lip balm, I have my "tried and true" that we use. I'm always up for trying something new, butttttt, I probably wouldn't have spent money on this. My thoughts are that if the bib, bowl, and toy comes out to $21 from amazon, the box was worth it for me!
The tugboat on amazon is $9.09
The exact bowl on amazon is $12 but there are other designs that are cheaper around $8-$9.
The bib is like the bowl, different patterns for different prices. The cheapest I could find was $6.95.
Using the cheapest prices ($9.09, $8.00, and $6.95) my total from amazon would have been $24.04. It's a win for Citrus Lane! Plus baby wash and lip balm and coupon codes for other things from the companies that provided what was in the box!
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First of all, it costs $25/month unless you sign up for 6 months or more (which we did). So,for us, we are paying $21/month and it is free shipping.
Ok, so our November box included:
-A tug boat bath toy made by green toys
-a skip hop bowl
- a bumkins bib
- a sample size babygenics bath wash for dry/sensitive skin
- lip balm for mom by pur lisse
So, would I have spent $21 on this stuff? First of all, Henry absolutely needs new bibs, bowls, etc. So, I would be buying this regardless. Also, he has no bath toys, so that's a good toy to get. As far as bath wash and lip balm, I have my "tried and true" that we use. I'm always up for trying something new, butttttt, I probably wouldn't have spent money on this. My thoughts are that if the bib, bowl, and toy comes out to $21 from amazon, the box was worth it for me!
The tugboat on amazon is $9.09
The exact bowl on amazon is $12 but there are other designs that are cheaper around $8-$9.
The bib is like the bowl, different patterns for different prices. The cheapest I could find was $6.95.
Using the cheapest prices ($9.09, $8.00, and $6.95) my total from amazon would have been $24.04. It's a win for Citrus Lane! Plus baby wash and lip balm and coupon codes for other things from the companies that provided what was in the box!
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11.05.2013
November
November is my favorite month! Something about it I just love. I love that it's still fall and not super cold yet. I love thanksgiving - it's my favorite holiday. I love the smells of pumpkin candles and apple pie. Eloise's birthday is this month! We are taking family pictures this month. Henry is getting his band off this month. Eloise is part of the preschool thanksgiving show and has picture day this month. We are seeing Disney junior live this month. The Barker family AND the Davis family are visiting this month (at the same time). I am just really excited that it is November!
I don't know if everyone has a favorite month. I know Julian's favorite is December. He is Mr. Christmas and loves it more than anyone I know! So excited for this Holiday season as a family of 4!
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I don't know if everyone has a favorite month. I know Julian's favorite is December. He is Mr. Christmas and loves it more than anyone I know! So excited for this Holiday season as a family of 4!
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10.29.2013
Random thoughts
- I'm excited for Henry's helmet to come off bc it makes his head smell so bad. But, once it's off I have no way to stop his constant scratching of his head. But without the helmet, maybe he won't be as itchy.
- Henry's eczema is 99% gone. It's amazing. The doctor prescribed some cream she made up ( I had to go to a hometown pharmacy bc the big ones don't do it right she said). Within two days it was gone. Amazing. He has soft smooth skin. Yay!!
- Julian officially started a new apartment job where he leaves in the morning around 6am and is gone until about 2:30. He also works 9-6 every other Saturday. The kids and I have been sooooo spoiled having him home a lot. I feel like I am now getting the true stay at home mom experience. We miss him and his help around here but we are so blessed he is working.
- Eloise is back to taking naps again. Skipping nap wasn't working out well so she's napping from 12:30-2:00 and she's in bed with lights out at 7-7:30. She sometimes isn't asleep until 8:30 but she isn't fighting me as much with staying in bed *most of the time*.
- Henry is now on three naps a day. He also "eats" solids three times a day. He isn't so much into the solids but we are working on it.
- I am down to 112 lbs but still have loose skin. I'm ready to start working out. If only they napped at the same time, oh and if I could sleep 5 hours straight at night. I'm always tired. My goal is to sleep train Henry in December. But it always happens that if Henry has a good night, Eloise wakes up. If they both sleep well, dukes barking to go out and has diarrhea at 2am (this actually happens to me). I might never sleep again haha.
- I'm extending my leave until June. I'm excited to not go back to work for a while longer.
- I'm pretty obsessed with England's history and can't stop researching. I'm a dork but I love everything from Henry VI to the war of the roses to king Edward and then the Tudors and all Henry VIII 's wives. I need to go to England soon. Too bad kids don't like historical walks and such.
Those are my random thoughts
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- Henry's eczema is 99% gone. It's amazing. The doctor prescribed some cream she made up ( I had to go to a hometown pharmacy bc the big ones don't do it right she said). Within two days it was gone. Amazing. He has soft smooth skin. Yay!!
- Julian officially started a new apartment job where he leaves in the morning around 6am and is gone until about 2:30. He also works 9-6 every other Saturday. The kids and I have been sooooo spoiled having him home a lot. I feel like I am now getting the true stay at home mom experience. We miss him and his help around here but we are so blessed he is working.
- Eloise is back to taking naps again. Skipping nap wasn't working out well so she's napping from 12:30-2:00 and she's in bed with lights out at 7-7:30. She sometimes isn't asleep until 8:30 but she isn't fighting me as much with staying in bed *most of the time*.
- Henry is now on three naps a day. He also "eats" solids three times a day. He isn't so much into the solids but we are working on it.
- I am down to 112 lbs but still have loose skin. I'm ready to start working out. If only they napped at the same time, oh and if I could sleep 5 hours straight at night. I'm always tired. My goal is to sleep train Henry in December. But it always happens that if Henry has a good night, Eloise wakes up. If they both sleep well, dukes barking to go out and has diarrhea at 2am (this actually happens to me). I might never sleep again haha.
- I'm extending my leave until June. I'm excited to not go back to work for a while longer.
- I'm pretty obsessed with England's history and can't stop researching. I'm a dork but I love everything from Henry VI to the war of the roses to king Edward and then the Tudors and all Henry VIII 's wives. I need to go to England soon. Too bad kids don't like historical walks and such.
Those are my random thoughts
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10.25.2013
Happy half birthday Henry!!!
Henry is 6 months old! I can't even believe it :)
Here is what my sweet boy is up to these days:
--He can sit unassisted for a couple minutes. He usually falls down while reaching for a toy or when his sister is stealing a toy from him.
--He has three teeth!!
--He laughs, babbles, and drools a lot.
--His eczema is still bad
--He weighs 16 lbs 1 oz -- which is down to 25% for weight. But, I know its because I just started him on solids in the last couple of weeks where as other kids his age probably had solids at 4 months and are now eating more than he does at 6 months.
-- he's 50% height and 75% head size
--He does NOT sleep through the night. A good night is going down at 7pm and only waking three times before 7am. I talked to a sleep trainer and in theory I WANT to sleep train him. But, he is a very distracted eater while nursing during the day. If there is any noise and/or activity around he wants to look at it and not eat. He obviously is making up for it at night. It really doesn't bother me all that much because most of the time he eats and can go right back to sleep. With Eloise, I had to rock her for an hour before she'd go back to sleep in the middle of the night. At least it's quick :) I have to look on the bright side.
--He is in 6-9 and 6-12 month clothing. 6 month size is too small.
--He is almost out of his helmet! His last appointment is Nov 6th and he is officially out of it on Nov 20th! I have to say I am very happy as to wear his head is now so it can only get better. I am so happy with the company we chose and our experience. It was fantastic! I would highly recommend Cranial Technologies to anyone who was looking to get a Doc Band for their child.
--We went through a short lived phase where Eloise wasn't very nice to Henry. She would kick him or hit him and would have to go to time out. Thank goodness that stage is over and she is back to being a great big sister. She tells him multiple times a day how much she loves him and gives him kisses all day. She loves "Buddy". She refers to him as "Buddy" and hardly ever calls him by name. I'm not sure if I want this Buddy nickname to stick. I kinda like the name I gave him :)
Other stuff going on:
Our next couple of months are BOOKED. I haven't any free time I feel like. Between holidays and Eloise's birthday we have so many events. Some fun things to look forward to!
--We are doing Trunk or Treat at Church on Halloween!
--Eloise is signed up to do a kid's Christmas program at Church for the Christmas Eve service.
--We are going to sign Eloise up for ballet because she won't stop pretending to be Angelina Ballerina
--We are going to Cape May for a weekend in December. We are staying at Congress Hall, where my brother got married. They host a winter wonderland thing and have story time with Mrs. Clause and breakfast with Santa and a train ride and gingerbread house making, etc. So I am excited to spend that weekend with my family in one hotel room (AH!) :)
--Eloise's birthday party! Pirates and Princesses!
--We have a wedding in November we are going to
--We are taking Eloise to Disney Junior Live
-- AND my favorite holiday is coming up! THANKSGIVING! I can't wait!
Pictures to come...
Here is what my sweet boy is up to these days:
--He can sit unassisted for a couple minutes. He usually falls down while reaching for a toy or when his sister is stealing a toy from him.
--He has three teeth!!
--He laughs, babbles, and drools a lot.
--His eczema is still bad
--He weighs 16 lbs 1 oz -- which is down to 25% for weight. But, I know its because I just started him on solids in the last couple of weeks where as other kids his age probably had solids at 4 months and are now eating more than he does at 6 months.
-- he's 50% height and 75% head size
--He does NOT sleep through the night. A good night is going down at 7pm and only waking three times before 7am. I talked to a sleep trainer and in theory I WANT to sleep train him. But, he is a very distracted eater while nursing during the day. If there is any noise and/or activity around he wants to look at it and not eat. He obviously is making up for it at night. It really doesn't bother me all that much because most of the time he eats and can go right back to sleep. With Eloise, I had to rock her for an hour before she'd go back to sleep in the middle of the night. At least it's quick :) I have to look on the bright side.
--He is in 6-9 and 6-12 month clothing. 6 month size is too small.
--He is almost out of his helmet! His last appointment is Nov 6th and he is officially out of it on Nov 20th! I have to say I am very happy as to wear his head is now so it can only get better. I am so happy with the company we chose and our experience. It was fantastic! I would highly recommend Cranial Technologies to anyone who was looking to get a Doc Band for their child.
--We went through a short lived phase where Eloise wasn't very nice to Henry. She would kick him or hit him and would have to go to time out. Thank goodness that stage is over and she is back to being a great big sister. She tells him multiple times a day how much she loves him and gives him kisses all day. She loves "Buddy". She refers to him as "Buddy" and hardly ever calls him by name. I'm not sure if I want this Buddy nickname to stick. I kinda like the name I gave him :)
Other stuff going on:
Our next couple of months are BOOKED. I haven't any free time I feel like. Between holidays and Eloise's birthday we have so many events. Some fun things to look forward to!
--We are doing Trunk or Treat at Church on Halloween!
--Eloise is signed up to do a kid's Christmas program at Church for the Christmas Eve service.
--We are going to sign Eloise up for ballet because she won't stop pretending to be Angelina Ballerina
--We are going to Cape May for a weekend in December. We are staying at Congress Hall, where my brother got married. They host a winter wonderland thing and have story time with Mrs. Clause and breakfast with Santa and a train ride and gingerbread house making, etc. So I am excited to spend that weekend with my family in one hotel room (AH!) :)
--Eloise's birthday party! Pirates and Princesses!
--We have a wedding in November we are going to
--We are taking Eloise to Disney Junior Live
-- AND my favorite holiday is coming up! THANKSGIVING! I can't wait!
Pictures to come...
10.21.2013
9.23.2013
Henry is 5 months old!!
This is late and there aren't pictures. Poor second child.
The Facts:
He is over 15 lbs.
He laughs at his sister.
He has the cutest gummy smile.
He loves to nurse.
He still nurses every 3 hours.
He is wearing his doc band 23 hours a day, and it doesn't really phase him.
He has sensitive skin
The eczema seems to be getting better
The spitting up seems to be getting better (sometimes)
He is in 6 and 6-9 month clothing
He still wakes up 3-4 times a night to nurse. And some nights sleeps in my bed with me.
He has a little runny nose
He only naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller.
He is starting sleep training on oct 10th
He hasn't had solids yet.
He reaches for me and his toys.
He sleeps best on his side.
He takes a bottle of breastmilk well, but mostly I'm too lazy to pump.
Everything Else...
- both Julian's parents and my parents got new puppies
- Eloise is enjoying preschool
- I am 114 lbs! Just about goal weight!
- this next month Keri, Joel and Olivia are visiting.
- I think Eloise is done with naps! Don't get me wrong, ill miss the daily break, but I would rather a 730 bedtime than an 830 one. If she does nap, bedtime is a SHOW. I'm so over negotiating with an almost three year old at bedtime. We will see how things go sans nap.
- Eloise is going to be a 'pink pirate' and Henry is going to be a dragon for Halloween.
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The Facts:
He is over 15 lbs.
He laughs at his sister.
He has the cutest gummy smile.
He loves to nurse.
He still nurses every 3 hours.
He is wearing his doc band 23 hours a day, and it doesn't really phase him.
He has sensitive skin
The eczema seems to be getting better
The spitting up seems to be getting better (sometimes)
He is in 6 and 6-9 month clothing
He still wakes up 3-4 times a night to nurse. And some nights sleeps in my bed with me.
He has a little runny nose
He only naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller.
He is starting sleep training on oct 10th
He hasn't had solids yet.
He reaches for me and his toys.
He sleeps best on his side.
He takes a bottle of breastmilk well, but mostly I'm too lazy to pump.
Everything Else...
- both Julian's parents and my parents got new puppies
- Eloise is enjoying preschool
- I am 114 lbs! Just about goal weight!
- this next month Keri, Joel and Olivia are visiting.
- I think Eloise is done with naps! Don't get me wrong, ill miss the daily break, but I would rather a 730 bedtime than an 830 one. If she does nap, bedtime is a SHOW. I'm so over negotiating with an almost three year old at bedtime. We will see how things go sans nap.
- Eloise is going to be a 'pink pirate' and Henry is going to be a dragon for Halloween.
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8.24.2013
4 months old and everything else
My sweet baby Henry is 4 months old! He is a joy to be around and still extremely easy-going. He is still only eating breastmilk and is still every three hours. By four months, usually, you can go every 4 hours, but he isn't there yet. This is about the time that Eloise was starting to become 5% or under in weight so I am interested in how much he weighs and where he is in the scale. He still spits up A.LOT. and drools constantly. He has cradle cap and eczema and dry skin. But he smiles and laughs and melts my heart. He is a momma's boy and I love it. He started reaching for toys this month and he can roll from his stomach to his back. He only has done the roll thing a handful of times, but he has done it. Sleep-wise it is touch and go. Lately, he has been getting up a lot more in the middle of the night. I try to only feed him on one side or just give him a pacifier, but apparently that is not working. He is still swaddled, but probably not for much longer. I have a feeling that has a lot to do with his sleeping issues. He can get his arms out and then won't go back to sleep, etc, etc. UGH. I guess I have to figure something out there. Napping, he takes a 40 minute 9am nap. Besides that he doesn't have a schedule but more of a routine which includes napping in my arms when he is tired. He is getting awfully heavy so those arm naps might have to come to an end. But my o my I love a sleeping boy in my arms. It doesn't get much sweeter.
He is officially getting his band on September 11. They estimate it will be on 6-9 weeks. I am hoping to have it off before Thanksgiving. This will probably add to the sleep troubles. We will see. Operation Perfect Head is a GO!
Anyway, I am super in love with him and I really love having a little boy. He is all boy and so so so cute. He loves his sister and will smile and laugh at her all day. She loves him as well and watching that relationship grow is precious. I have a feeling once he can steal her toys things might change ;) I can't tell who he looks like yet but he definitely has the same eyes as Eloise. She has more intense eye lashes, but the actual eye shape is the same. He doesn't have her nose or mouth. I still think he looks like Julian's dad. I guess we will see...
He is 14 lbs 11oz and 25 inches long
He is 50-75% across the board
And I am 117 lbs! 1 pound away from pre pregnancy!
As far as Eloise goes this month is a biggie. She is currently being potty trained!!! We have a sticker system that gets her a prize after 7 stickers and it seems to be working. I don't want to jinx myself but I think we are on our way! I am so proud of my big girl! She is starting pre-school in September and I can't believe how grown up she is lately. She has been saying such big words and using them in the correct context which surprises all of us every time she does it.
She is still very much into princesses, but Barbie has made her way up the scale. What she really enjoys is dressing and undressing them. We have a Barbie fashion show about 4-5 times a day. It is exhausting but I love how much happiness it brings her. She is also pretty obsessed with the iPad. We were thinking of giving her one for her bday but I think it's too much. She already has Julian's and uses it way more than I want her to, but a nursing mom has to do things...
I can't believe I am starting to plan her 3rd birthday. We are thinking it will be a princess and pirate theme, which is sooo Eloise.
Besides that, not much going on. We are all looking forward to fall weather and spending the rest of summer relaxing.
He is officially getting his band on September 11. They estimate it will be on 6-9 weeks. I am hoping to have it off before Thanksgiving. This will probably add to the sleep troubles. We will see. Operation Perfect Head is a GO!
Anyway, I am super in love with him and I really love having a little boy. He is all boy and so so so cute. He loves his sister and will smile and laugh at her all day. She loves him as well and watching that relationship grow is precious. I have a feeling once he can steal her toys things might change ;) I can't tell who he looks like yet but he definitely has the same eyes as Eloise. She has more intense eye lashes, but the actual eye shape is the same. He doesn't have her nose or mouth. I still think he looks like Julian's dad. I guess we will see...
He is 14 lbs 11oz and 25 inches long
He is 50-75% across the board
And I am 117 lbs! 1 pound away from pre pregnancy!
As far as Eloise goes this month is a biggie. She is currently being potty trained!!! We have a sticker system that gets her a prize after 7 stickers and it seems to be working. I don't want to jinx myself but I think we are on our way! I am so proud of my big girl! She is starting pre-school in September and I can't believe how grown up she is lately. She has been saying such big words and using them in the correct context which surprises all of us every time she does it.
She is still very much into princesses, but Barbie has made her way up the scale. What she really enjoys is dressing and undressing them. We have a Barbie fashion show about 4-5 times a day. It is exhausting but I love how much happiness it brings her. She is also pretty obsessed with the iPad. We were thinking of giving her one for her bday but I think it's too much. She already has Julian's and uses it way more than I want her to, but a nursing mom has to do things...
I can't believe I am starting to plan her 3rd birthday. We are thinking it will be a princess and pirate theme, which is sooo Eloise.
Besides that, not much going on. We are all looking forward to fall weather and spending the rest of summer relaxing.
8.08.2013
Doc Band Update
So, it's 100% happening. Henry was put in the 'moderate' category for plagiocephaly and he is getting the band, or helmet. The company we chose to go with, cranial technologies, uses a band,not a helmet, but essentially it's the same thing.
Once he gets the band, they predict he will be in it for 6-9 weeks. I'm so not excited about it. But, I am excited to fix my baby's head.
My hope is to have it on before September and for him to have it off by December.
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Once he gets the band, they predict he will be in it for 6-9 weeks. I'm so not excited about it. But, I am excited to fix my baby's head.
My hope is to have it on before September and for him to have it off by December.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
7.26.2013
Henry is 3 months old!!!
How is it that you are already three months old little buddy?? You definitely are getting a personality and are the sweetest most easy-going baby ever. My heart melts when you smile and you make this momma so happy with your coos and silly faces. I am enamored by your sweetness and how much you and your sister already seem to love each other! Happy 3 months buddy!!
What is going on with Henry at 3 months:
-- He is wearing 3-6 month clothing and some 6 month onesies
--He is smiling and cooing constantly!
--He laughs out loud! He has only done it twice but I live for those moments!
--He takes a bottle well. I just can't seem to pump enough for a full bottle which is driving me batty.
--He loves his pacifier and lovey (just like his sister)
--He is still a pretty good sleeper. He takes his naps in his bouncer still and sleeps in his crib. He can sleep on average about 6-7 hours his first stretch at night (from 7pm--2am about) and then will sleep about a 3 hour stretch after that. It differs daily but that is about average.
--He still sleeps swaddled in a summer infant swaddleme blanket.
--We have our evaluation at Craniel Tech this month to discuss getting the band. He still very much favors one side and even though I feel the stretches have helped somewhat, he mainly will sleep on that one side. I go in and turn his head every so often while I am awake and he might leave it there for 10-20 minutes, but then it will spring back to the favored side. I guess we will see what they say. Along with pumping, this is my biggest concern for him right now.
Other things going on while Henry was busy turning 3 months:
--Terrible Twos are upon us. OH BOY. She is still a perfect princess but such a stinker. She knows what buttons to push and when to push them. DRAMA DRAMA DRAMA
--I am down to 121 lbs! So close! 5 lbs to pre-pregnancy weight, 8 lbs to being at my goal weight! I am happy with my body's transformation and can't wait to get on a regular exercise schedule (once pre-school starts/sleeping more) to help the rest of the transformation.
--We have started to discuss extending my leave. As of right now I am scheduled to go back January 30th. By October we want to have the paperwork in for me extension if we decide that I am extending. We will know more about that in a few weeks based on a couple of variables with Julian's job.
What is going on with Henry at 3 months:
-- He is wearing 3-6 month clothing and some 6 month onesies
--He is smiling and cooing constantly!
--He laughs out loud! He has only done it twice but I live for those moments!
--He takes a bottle well. I just can't seem to pump enough for a full bottle which is driving me batty.
--He loves his pacifier and lovey (just like his sister)
--He is still a pretty good sleeper. He takes his naps in his bouncer still and sleeps in his crib. He can sleep on average about 6-7 hours his first stretch at night (from 7pm--2am about) and then will sleep about a 3 hour stretch after that. It differs daily but that is about average.
--He still sleeps swaddled in a summer infant swaddleme blanket.
--We have our evaluation at Craniel Tech this month to discuss getting the band. He still very much favors one side and even though I feel the stretches have helped somewhat, he mainly will sleep on that one side. I go in and turn his head every so often while I am awake and he might leave it there for 10-20 minutes, but then it will spring back to the favored side. I guess we will see what they say. Along with pumping, this is my biggest concern for him right now.
Other things going on while Henry was busy turning 3 months:
--Terrible Twos are upon us. OH BOY. She is still a perfect princess but such a stinker. She knows what buttons to push and when to push them. DRAMA DRAMA DRAMA
--I am down to 121 lbs! So close! 5 lbs to pre-pregnancy weight, 8 lbs to being at my goal weight! I am happy with my body's transformation and can't wait to get on a regular exercise schedule (once pre-school starts/sleeping more) to help the rest of the transformation.
--We have started to discuss extending my leave. As of right now I am scheduled to go back January 30th. By October we want to have the paperwork in for me extension if we decide that I am extending. We will know more about that in a few weeks based on a couple of variables with Julian's job.
7.19.2013
Torticollis update
Henry has a mild case of torticollis which as resulted in him being diagnosed with moderate plagiocephaly or in other words he has a moderate flat spot of his head. A lot of babies born early get this because their heads are super malleable, also babies who were big at birth in comparison to their moms (thats me) because they were probably twisted to one side of the neck and couldn't move much at the end, which is why they favor that side. Also babies who spend a lot of time in their crib typically get these problems.
We noticed Henry was favoring one side of his head at his 1 month appointment. He was starting to get a flat spot and the pediatrician told us little tricks to try to get him to use the other side of his head. By his two month appointment it had gotten worse and we were referred to a Physical Therapist. Some of the ideas people had to help was to put rolled up blankets/wedges/things into his bed to keep him on the one side. I am sorry, but SIDS scares me. I would rather have a child who has a flat spot than one that doesn't breathe. I know that probably wouldn't happen but I couldn't take the chance. Plus, he moves himself all over his crib like a mad man, so I wasn't comfortable putting things in his crib with him.
The PT gave us stretches to do, which should help. He has 4-5 stretches he has to do 7 times a day and each one has to be held for a minimum of 30 seconds for three reps each time. I spend most of the day doing his stretches. The good news is that he is SUCH a happy baby. Always smiling and laughing! I mean like belly laughs already! So, *most of the time* he doesn't mind doing his stretches. The only one who minds is Eloise because I can't do anything else during that time. But, she is getting used to it and can try to help during the tummy time stretches.
Another part of this whole thing, is I haven't been putting him in his crib for naps because the less time spent on his back or on his left side -the better. So he still naps in his bouncer which I also bought an insert for to help keep his head straight and not to one side. But, nap training will come in time.
We also made an appointment with craniel technologies for an eval for the band, or helmet. At four months of age, we will decide whether or not Henry will need the band. If we do decide he needs to wear it, he will have to wear it 23 hours a day for 4-10 weeks. Crazy, right? It is amazing that 1 out of 10 infants need to wear the band, but I am hoping being diligent enough with his stretches, going to the PT and the chiropractor, will help him out.
We have gone to see his PT twice so far, and she was happy with his progress. She said that in 1 week he already met his 3 week goals she had for him! That makes this mommy happy!! But, I still have lots of work to do and decisions to make. I am just so blessed and happy that he is happy and healthy and we will work out any other issues that arise :)
We noticed Henry was favoring one side of his head at his 1 month appointment. He was starting to get a flat spot and the pediatrician told us little tricks to try to get him to use the other side of his head. By his two month appointment it had gotten worse and we were referred to a Physical Therapist. Some of the ideas people had to help was to put rolled up blankets/wedges/things into his bed to keep him on the one side. I am sorry, but SIDS scares me. I would rather have a child who has a flat spot than one that doesn't breathe. I know that probably wouldn't happen but I couldn't take the chance. Plus, he moves himself all over his crib like a mad man, so I wasn't comfortable putting things in his crib with him.
The PT gave us stretches to do, which should help. He has 4-5 stretches he has to do 7 times a day and each one has to be held for a minimum of 30 seconds for three reps each time. I spend most of the day doing his stretches. The good news is that he is SUCH a happy baby. Always smiling and laughing! I mean like belly laughs already! So, *most of the time* he doesn't mind doing his stretches. The only one who minds is Eloise because I can't do anything else during that time. But, she is getting used to it and can try to help during the tummy time stretches.
Another part of this whole thing, is I haven't been putting him in his crib for naps because the less time spent on his back or on his left side -the better. So he still naps in his bouncer which I also bought an insert for to help keep his head straight and not to one side. But, nap training will come in time.
We also made an appointment with craniel technologies for an eval for the band, or helmet. At four months of age, we will decide whether or not Henry will need the band. If we do decide he needs to wear it, he will have to wear it 23 hours a day for 4-10 weeks. Crazy, right? It is amazing that 1 out of 10 infants need to wear the band, but I am hoping being diligent enough with his stretches, going to the PT and the chiropractor, will help him out.
We have gone to see his PT twice so far, and she was happy with his progress. She said that in 1 week he already met his 3 week goals she had for him! That makes this mommy happy!! But, I still have lots of work to do and decisions to make. I am just so blessed and happy that he is happy and healthy and we will work out any other issues that arise :)
6.24.2013
Henry is 2 months old!
Henry is 2 months old! I feel like I just wrote his 1 month post! This past month went by super fast. I went back and was reading Eloise's 2 month post and I feel like I could just copy and paste the entire thing, because it is exactly what is going on with Henry. But, being fair and all, I will write Henry his own. Poor second child :)
Henry at 2 months:
--He is a happy baby still! He only cries when he is tired and not in his bouncer. He likes to nap in his bouncer. This is different than Eloise. She liked napping in her swing or in my arms. He wants nothing to do with my arms or the swing. He is not a cuddly baby like Eloise was. He likes to be held over my shoulder if I am holding him, or looking out. He doesn't want to cuddle in my arms and if I do put him there he will get frustrated that he isn't eating. To him, being in my arms means food. He smiles a lot and coos. He says things like 'agoo' and such. He will smile in response to me or Julian and can follow us with his eyes.
-- His schedule is nurse, awake time, sleep. He does this all day until bedtime. Right now I am nursing him approximately at 7, 10, 1, 4, 6, 7:30. Then he will sleep anywhere from 5-8 hours and get nursed around 1-2am (depending on how long his first stretch of sleep is) and then we start it over again.
--He takes a bottle really well. He likes the Avent bottles and I try to give him a bottle once a week. I give him about 5 ounces in a bottle right now. The only way I have found pumping to work is if I pump at the time he is getting the bottle. I haven't been able to add an extra session in, but for now this is working. If I need more than one bottle, I might have some trouble. I have a couple months to figure that out. I am just happy he takes the bottle to begin with :)
--He favors his left side and is getting a flat spot. Ugh. This is cause for much worry in my head. But, he is going to the chiropractor and we are working on some stretches. When I look back to Eloise's 2 month pictures, she also had a flat spot, so I hope we can work it out and it won't end up being a big deal.
--He had VERY bad acne this past month. It started out as a little pimple here and there around 1 month and then turned into full blown acne all over his poor face. I finally took him to see the doctor a week ago and she said it was acne along with heat rash and said to put hydrocortizone cream lightly on it once a day. Amazingly, after almost a month of awful acne/heat rash, within two-three days of cream, the acne is totally gone. I am so happy to feel smooth baby cheeks again.
--Henry is in 3 and 3-6 month clothing and is finishing up his box of size 1 diapers. I am pretty sure he will be in size 2's when this box is up.
--
Other things going on :
--I am down to 124 pounds. I feel like my body is slowly shrinking. I had started going to my parents to work out 2-3 times a week, but with summer here now and traffic, and putting the kids in the car for 45 minutes there and 45 minutes back, I just haven't been getting there as much. I also try to work out during Eloise's nap time, but I also want to clean, do laundry, take a shower, etc. So I haven't been working out as much. Ugh. Oh well, I am still losing weight so that is good. My goal is to be 113 lbs eventually but that is like the lowest weight I have ever been in my adult life, so I would be happy with 115-116 which is my pre-pregnancy weight. Julian is sick of hearing me talk about it and is reminding me that it has only been 2 months and to give myself time. But, after 9 months of not having my body, it is hard to deal. But, I am happy with the progress so far.
--Potty training with Eloise wasn't going well. It was a huge fight, so we stopped trying. We are going to VA at the end of July - beginning of August, so I will try again after that trip. I am in no rush, and I am pretty sure she will eventually be potty trained :)
--Nothing else is really going on. We are having a very low key summer. It is hard to get out with both kids, and plan around naps and eating and such. I am just enjoying my time home with my babies, playing and having really lazy days.
**update**
At the doctors appointment we found out he weighs 12 lbs 9 oz and is 75% across the board.
Also the dr recommended to see a physical therapist because Henry has been favoring his left side - it's slight tortocollis (?).
Henry at 2 months:
--He is a happy baby still! He only cries when he is tired and not in his bouncer. He likes to nap in his bouncer. This is different than Eloise. She liked napping in her swing or in my arms. He wants nothing to do with my arms or the swing. He is not a cuddly baby like Eloise was. He likes to be held over my shoulder if I am holding him, or looking out. He doesn't want to cuddle in my arms and if I do put him there he will get frustrated that he isn't eating. To him, being in my arms means food. He smiles a lot and coos. He says things like 'agoo' and such. He will smile in response to me or Julian and can follow us with his eyes.
-- His schedule is nurse, awake time, sleep. He does this all day until bedtime. Right now I am nursing him approximately at 7, 10, 1, 4, 6, 7:30. Then he will sleep anywhere from 5-8 hours and get nursed around 1-2am (depending on how long his first stretch of sleep is) and then we start it over again.
--He takes a bottle really well. He likes the Avent bottles and I try to give him a bottle once a week. I give him about 5 ounces in a bottle right now. The only way I have found pumping to work is if I pump at the time he is getting the bottle. I haven't been able to add an extra session in, but for now this is working. If I need more than one bottle, I might have some trouble. I have a couple months to figure that out. I am just happy he takes the bottle to begin with :)
--He favors his left side and is getting a flat spot. Ugh. This is cause for much worry in my head. But, he is going to the chiropractor and we are working on some stretches. When I look back to Eloise's 2 month pictures, she also had a flat spot, so I hope we can work it out and it won't end up being a big deal.
--He had VERY bad acne this past month. It started out as a little pimple here and there around 1 month and then turned into full blown acne all over his poor face. I finally took him to see the doctor a week ago and she said it was acne along with heat rash and said to put hydrocortizone cream lightly on it once a day. Amazingly, after almost a month of awful acne/heat rash, within two-three days of cream, the acne is totally gone. I am so happy to feel smooth baby cheeks again.
--Henry is in 3 and 3-6 month clothing and is finishing up his box of size 1 diapers. I am pretty sure he will be in size 2's when this box is up.
--
Other things going on :
--I am down to 124 pounds. I feel like my body is slowly shrinking. I had started going to my parents to work out 2-3 times a week, but with summer here now and traffic, and putting the kids in the car for 45 minutes there and 45 minutes back, I just haven't been getting there as much. I also try to work out during Eloise's nap time, but I also want to clean, do laundry, take a shower, etc. So I haven't been working out as much. Ugh. Oh well, I am still losing weight so that is good. My goal is to be 113 lbs eventually but that is like the lowest weight I have ever been in my adult life, so I would be happy with 115-116 which is my pre-pregnancy weight. Julian is sick of hearing me talk about it and is reminding me that it has only been 2 months and to give myself time. But, after 9 months of not having my body, it is hard to deal. But, I am happy with the progress so far.
--Potty training with Eloise wasn't going well. It was a huge fight, so we stopped trying. We are going to VA at the end of July - beginning of August, so I will try again after that trip. I am in no rush, and I am pretty sure she will eventually be potty trained :)
--Nothing else is really going on. We are having a very low key summer. It is hard to get out with both kids, and plan around naps and eating and such. I am just enjoying my time home with my babies, playing and having really lazy days.
**update**
At the doctors appointment we found out he weighs 12 lbs 9 oz and is 75% across the board.
Also the dr recommended to see a physical therapist because Henry has been favoring his left side - it's slight tortocollis (?).
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