Milo was definitely 'ready' to start solids... but I think I may be pulling back on the reins a bit. Milo had his first diaper rash today. And (Caution potential TMI) naturally his bm's are changing. Before I could clearly hear when Milo had a bm, but now I can't. Of course I change his diaper regularly, but it doesn't take long for the mixing of #1 and #2 to cause a rash, especially now that its more like real poop. With cloth diapers, you have to use special diaper rash cream to keep the diapers working properly.
It may be me hanging on to my baby... in fact it is me hanging on to my baby before he grows right on out of my arms. But I'm gong to ease up on the baby food, and maybe just do it two or three times a week just to keep him used to it. I want those sweet smelling baby poops back. :/
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Growing Like a... Dandelion
I don't like relating my baby to a weed... so I decided to say 'growing like a dandelion'... at least dandelions are pretty weeds!
Milo had his first PT appointment today. I was very happy with the PT we went to. Its not the same one I went to when I was pregnant... that one specializes in women's health. The PT Milo saw today does more work with babies and children. She did a very thorough evaluation of Milo. She asked me a lot of questions about his development and growth. Then she evaluated him from head to toe, checking his range of motion and what not. She came to the conclusion that he may have some tightness in his neck and jaw on the right side, but she said it was minor.
However, she did find that he would not allow her to touch the roof of his mouth (with a glove on of course.) He kept pushing it out with his tongue then he'd clamp down. Ah Ha!! That's what he does when nursing. Babies are supposed to have the nipple between their tongue and the roof of their mouth. Milo is obviously not doing that. The problem is we don't know why he isn't doing that. She is going to meet with our lactation consultant tomorrow and they are going to brainstorm and see if they can figure out why Milo isn't nursing properly. She still wants to see him a time or two to do some stretches to make sure its not related to that minor jaw tightness. We are more determined now than ever before... I just feel the clock ticking. We're fine at the moment, its just those teeth that scare me at this point. We'll be fine if he ends up being a late teether.
Milo had his first PT appointment today. I was very happy with the PT we went to. Its not the same one I went to when I was pregnant... that one specializes in women's health. The PT Milo saw today does more work with babies and children. She did a very thorough evaluation of Milo. She asked me a lot of questions about his development and growth. Then she evaluated him from head to toe, checking his range of motion and what not. She came to the conclusion that he may have some tightness in his neck and jaw on the right side, but she said it was minor.
However, she did find that he would not allow her to touch the roof of his mouth (with a glove on of course.) He kept pushing it out with his tongue then he'd clamp down. Ah Ha!! That's what he does when nursing. Babies are supposed to have the nipple between their tongue and the roof of their mouth. Milo is obviously not doing that. The problem is we don't know why he isn't doing that. She is going to meet with our lactation consultant tomorrow and they are going to brainstorm and see if they can figure out why Milo isn't nursing properly. She still wants to see him a time or two to do some stretches to make sure its not related to that minor jaw tightness. We are more determined now than ever before... I just feel the clock ticking. We're fine at the moment, its just those teeth that scare me at this point. We'll be fine if he ends up being a late teether.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Growing Like a Weed
The last few nights have gone SO well!! We have been able to put Milo in his crib drowsy, but still awake. We might have to put his pacifier back in a few times over a 20 minutes period... but for the most part... our bedtimes are very pleasant. I know we will likely have set backs along the way when it comes to sleep, but he is really doing very well. He is also sleeping for longer stretches which I am definitely enjoying. The swaddling is hit or miss. Sometimes he needs it, but other times he cries making it clear how ticked off he is that he is swaddled. We really just try to read his needs for that particular moment.
Milo's eating continues to go very well. He has now had cereal, banana, prunes, pears, and sweet potatoes. He really liked the sweet potatoes. Tomorrow we'll be trying avocado. And his cereal this morning was on the thicker side... not super thick, but not too runny. Milo is showing now dissatisfaction when it comes to the new tastes or textures we've been introducing. We'll continue with the jarred food for the next few weeks... then I'll start pureeing most of his fruits and veggies.
We are definitely seeing more and more of Milo's personality coming through. He is very, very loving. He now gives kisses. He'll open his mouth real wide and lean in to wipe his slobbery face on yours. Its SOOOO sweet. I just love it. Today when Nathan came home, he almost immediately leaned in to kiss him. As much as we smooch that kid... I'm not surprised by this. And Milo is also becoming very chatty. This afternoon it was talk talk talk talk talk for probably 40 minutes non stop. I thought for sure he was going to wake up Anya from her nap.
And Milo's favorite songs these days are Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes (first sung in English, then Japanese), Itsy Bitsy Spider, I'm a Little Teacup, and Skinamirinkydinkydink (sp?) Milo is also laughing more frequently... still usually at Daddy. As long as I get those smoochies... I'm OK with that.
Tomorrow morning Milo has his first PT appointment. I'll be surprised if this really gets him to stop clamping, but we are willing to try anything. PT definitely helped me when I was pregnant... so we'll see.
I guess that's about it. Not much else is new in the Morgan home. We're just enjoying the fall weather and spending every waking moment with our Boo Bear.
Milo's eating continues to go very well. He has now had cereal, banana, prunes, pears, and sweet potatoes. He really liked the sweet potatoes. Tomorrow we'll be trying avocado. And his cereal this morning was on the thicker side... not super thick, but not too runny. Milo is showing now dissatisfaction when it comes to the new tastes or textures we've been introducing. We'll continue with the jarred food for the next few weeks... then I'll start pureeing most of his fruits and veggies.
We are definitely seeing more and more of Milo's personality coming through. He is very, very loving. He now gives kisses. He'll open his mouth real wide and lean in to wipe his slobbery face on yours. Its SOOOO sweet. I just love it. Today when Nathan came home, he almost immediately leaned in to kiss him. As much as we smooch that kid... I'm not surprised by this. And Milo is also becoming very chatty. This afternoon it was talk talk talk talk talk for probably 40 minutes non stop. I thought for sure he was going to wake up Anya from her nap.
And Milo's favorite songs these days are Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes (first sung in English, then Japanese), Itsy Bitsy Spider, I'm a Little Teacup, and Skinamirinkydinkydink (sp?) Milo is also laughing more frequently... still usually at Daddy. As long as I get those smoochies... I'm OK with that.
Tomorrow morning Milo has his first PT appointment. I'll be surprised if this really gets him to stop clamping, but we are willing to try anything. PT definitely helped me when I was pregnant... so we'll see.
I guess that's about it. Not much else is new in the Morgan home. We're just enjoying the fall weather and spending every waking moment with our Boo Bear.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Big Boy, Little Boy, Mountaineer
Milo's "big boy" eating is continuing to go well... however he is still sleeping like a "little boy." We have pretty much made the transition to regular crib sleeping. But Milo was still waking frequently. I don't regret letting Milo sleep in the swing during those first five weeks. It was survival. He was sleeping; I was sleeping. At the time that was the most important thing. Because of that... he still doesn't sleep great flat. He wakes up and his arms fly up in the air. Not really like the moro/startle reflex... more like a 'Ah no one is holding me and I feel insecure' kind of flailing. So last night we decided to try swaddling him. It definitely help him sleep better. He was still up every two hours, but definitely seemed much more secure. I ran into the nursery probably four or five times after putting him down, and finally decided to swaddle him again. He did wake up crying one more time, but immediately stopped and feel back asleep on his own in a matter of seconds. I really don't mind swaddling him if that's what he needs. As I've said before, as long as he is getting sleep, I'm getting sleep, and we're making baby steps towards good sleep habits, I'm satisfied.
Today we ran down to the outlets to do some shopping for a few things. Nathan bough some new socks. I bought some new shoes... Molly style Crocs. And we bought Milo some more of our favorite onsies in the next size up {50% off}, and we bought Milo his first pair of shoes. Milo was given a pair and we had some that were Nathan's when he was little... but Milo's feet were too big at birth... they never fit. And we went with 6-9 month size. They're a little big, but right now they are just to add an extra layer on his feet in the cold... its always good to buy stuff with a little extra growing room.
And we finally settled on Milo's first Halloween costume. I really want to make his first costume. But we just couldn't decide on his costume. We thought of everything from an astronaut to a banana. We finally settled on the costume we had originally planned on making before he was born... a little Mountaineer... as in the West Virginia University mascot. I went to the fabric store this evening and bought three types of fabric to make his pants and jacket, the fringe, and a "coon" skin hat. And since I only needed small quantities of each, it only cost $8. Now I am not a fan of guns. But... the Mountaineer fires his gun at every WVU sporting event... its almost a must. So I am going to make a paper mache muzzle loader or rifle or whatever kind of gun he carries. :) Oh and Nathan is insisting he have a beard. We were trying to come up with a brown substance that we could use to paint a little scruff on his face... we came up with chocolate. I'm still going to try to get Nathan to give up on the beard, but we'll see. And my newborn group is having a Halloween potluck so we can show off all of our dressed up babies. I'm so excited.
OK. Time for bed. Good night everyone!
Today we ran down to the outlets to do some shopping for a few things. Nathan bough some new socks. I bought some new shoes... Molly style Crocs. And we bought Milo some more of our favorite onsies in the next size up {50% off}, and we bought Milo his first pair of shoes. Milo was given a pair and we had some that were Nathan's when he was little... but Milo's feet were too big at birth... they never fit. And we went with 6-9 month size. They're a little big, but right now they are just to add an extra layer on his feet in the cold... its always good to buy stuff with a little extra growing room.
And we finally settled on Milo's first Halloween costume. I really want to make his first costume. But we just couldn't decide on his costume. We thought of everything from an astronaut to a banana. We finally settled on the costume we had originally planned on making before he was born... a little Mountaineer... as in the West Virginia University mascot. I went to the fabric store this evening and bought three types of fabric to make his pants and jacket, the fringe, and a "coon" skin hat. And since I only needed small quantities of each, it only cost $8. Now I am not a fan of guns. But... the Mountaineer fires his gun at every WVU sporting event... its almost a must. So I am going to make a paper mache muzzle loader or rifle or whatever kind of gun he carries. :) Oh and Nathan is insisting he have a beard. We were trying to come up with a brown substance that we could use to paint a little scruff on his face... we came up with chocolate. I'm still going to try to get Nathan to give up on the beard, but we'll see. And my newborn group is having a Halloween potluck so we can show off all of our dressed up babies. I'm so excited.
OK. Time for bed. Good night everyone!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Yum Yum
We did it! Milo had his first "bowl" of cereal this evening. I just couldn't wait until morning. Milo did great. He LOVED it! He truly could not get enough. Since I don't pump or have any milk stored, I mixed water with the rice cereal. But who wants bland, watery rice cereal? So I may have snuck in a little banana puree to give it a little sweetness to resemble breastmilk. Like I said before, we're going to take is slow and just do a little bit of cereal/first foods a couple times a day. The majority of his nutrition will still come from breastfeeding. Then once he gets closer to the 6 month mark we'll step it up and start introducing more foods and in greater quantities.
Firsts
Well... It looks like tomorrow we will be giving cereal a try with Milo. The best advice I read on the subject said to pay attention to your baby's cues not the calendar. "They" say babies can start anywhere between 4-6 months, sometimes sooner or later. Based on what I've read, I think Milo may very well be ready. I did kind of a test this morning. I expressed some breast milk then tried to feed it to him with a spoon. Boy did he like that. He even started opening his mouth as soon as he would see the spoon. And most of the milk made it down. And he really didn't seem to be trying to push the spoon out of his mouth. Now I know milk is liquid, but the first cereal is going to be super runny also. Milo is over 3 1/2 months... add two weeks considering he was two weeks late and that's 4 months. And so far he has been ahead of the game with everything else. So we're going to give it a shot tomorrow morning. But we plan on taking it slow. We'll start and take our time with the easy first fruits and veggies... and hold off on some of the more complex foods until 6 months. And my plan is to make the majority of the fruit and veggie purees myself... depending on the seasons and availability of quality produce. I also plan on making my own yogurt which apparently is fairly simple... although I'll hold off on the yogurt until 6 months. I'll let you know how Milo's first cereal goes! It will be sad to say good bye to those sweet smelling newborn poops once solids are introduced... woops... did I just say that out loud????
Last night Milo slept in his crib all night with the exception of about an hour when I was just too tired. He did wake up several times, but I'd either nurse him or put his pacifier in or turn him on his side and he'd go back to sleep. We are having a problem though with Nathan's alarms in the morning. I make him turn them off so they don't wake up Milo... but then Nathan ends up over sleeping. So I think this weekend we're going to move Milo's crib to the nursery and I'll sleep on the single bed next time the crib. My mom mentioned he probably doesn't need me to sleep next to the crib, but I still need him close to me. But it'll be good to get him into his nursery now before he really realizes the difference between Mommy's room and Milo's room. And then once he's waking less during the night... I'll go back to our bedroom.
I also tried to Milo in his crib to nap today and that did NOT work. I realized Milo does not associate laying on his back to sleep. That's play. I'm not sure how I'll get him to start napping in his crib, but one major thing at a time!! As long as he fits the swing... I'm OK with him napping in the swing.
Last night Milo slept in his crib all night with the exception of about an hour when I was just too tired. He did wake up several times, but I'd either nurse him or put his pacifier in or turn him on his side and he'd go back to sleep. We are having a problem though with Nathan's alarms in the morning. I make him turn them off so they don't wake up Milo... but then Nathan ends up over sleeping. So I think this weekend we're going to move Milo's crib to the nursery and I'll sleep on the single bed next time the crib. My mom mentioned he probably doesn't need me to sleep next to the crib, but I still need him close to me. But it'll be good to get him into his nursery now before he really realizes the difference between Mommy's room and Milo's room. And then once he's waking less during the night... I'll go back to our bedroom.
I also tried to Milo in his crib to nap today and that did NOT work. I realized Milo does not associate laying on his back to sleep. That's play. I'm not sure how I'll get him to start napping in his crib, but one major thing at a time!! As long as he fits the swing... I'm OK with him napping in the swing.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
September
September if absolutely flying by!! The leaves are quickly changing and falling. It seems like it was only a week ago that I was praying for June to get here already. And here we are... nearing the end of September.
We made it our newborn group today for the first time in a few weeks. We made at a local park, so I was able to take Anya with me. (You may notice I go back in forth between mom's group and newborn group. Its all the same... I just call it different things with different people.) It was SO nice to be back. I really missed it. As soon as Milo and I walked up to the group, no one could believe how big Milo was. There are several babies that are a few weeks older than Milo and still look like cute little babies. Milo looks HUGE compared to them. And I don't mean this in a bragging way... but several of them just rolled over for the first time today. Milo was about 8 weeks old when he rolled for the first time. I have no clue why Milo is so big and 'mature' for his age, but that's how its been since day one. I remember my lactation consultant looked at Milo at about one week of age and said that is NOT a newborn baby. And there were a couple brand new babies. They were SOOO tiny. It was hard to believe Milo was ever that small. It makes me just a little sad that he's growing so fast. I need him to slow down just a little bit.
I also got to talk to my lactation consultant today. We had a conversation about how things are going. We're thinking the next step may be to try some physical therapy. I guess this is more often seen in csection babies, but sometimes a baby's jaw muscles can be too tight... which is going to affect how they open and latch. I don't know how you do PT on an infant's jaw, but we'll give it a shot!
I guess that's about it. Anya caught her first cold from school... so I've been trying to keep her nose wipes and everything sanitized. And I've been pumping that OJ!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Yesterday
Last night Milo finally rolled from his tummy to his back. Its so unusual that he rolled from back to belly at 8 weeks, but its taken him this long to go from belly to back. And he did it so quietly. No fussing... he just gently tilted his head and rolled. Of course, we were so proud. I picked him up and started cheering like a fool. Milo was so funny as he just stared at me, completely unaware of what he did.
Yesterday evening, I enjoyed a "mom's night out" with some ladies from my newborn group. This is was just dinner, so I thought I'd go for about an hour. Some of their evenings are pretty... wild. And that wasn't for me before Milo. And if I'm going to be away from Milo... its certainly not to 'party.' But I did really enjoy dinner last night. And of course, what did we talk about? Our babies and labor!
Its definitely cold season up here. I'm hearing about tons of kids with congestion and colds. Its time to really start pumping that OJ! That means its also time to go nuts with the (natural) hand cleaner and avoid shopping at peak hours. I know Milo will eventually get his first cold, which is fine. That's how we build immune systems, but I do hope we can hold it off for a while.
And last night I had a first. In BG, I used to really enjoy thunderstorms. The thunder would just boom and roll across the sky. Well last night, we warnings of a severe storm moving in. And all of sudden I feared storms. On the Western side of the state they had winds up to 75 MPH. And the warning on the TV said get indoors and stay away from windows. Of course, Milo was asleep in his crib... which is in the corner of the room between two windows. Once the storm moved in there was constant lightening, the electricity went in and out. I felt like a caged lion. I couldn't decide if Milo was safer in his crib, in bed with me, asleep in the swing in the living room?!?!?! I was mostly worried about a tree falling on our house. And if it did, it would fall right on our bedroom. Anyway... I tried to stay calm (sitting wide awake next to the crib) and the storm really moved through fairly quickly. I did put Milo in bed with me after he woke up. I just needed him in my arms after all of that.
Yesterday evening, I enjoyed a "mom's night out" with some ladies from my newborn group. This is was just dinner, so I thought I'd go for about an hour. Some of their evenings are pretty... wild. And that wasn't for me before Milo. And if I'm going to be away from Milo... its certainly not to 'party.' But I did really enjoy dinner last night. And of course, what did we talk about? Our babies and labor!
Its definitely cold season up here. I'm hearing about tons of kids with congestion and colds. Its time to really start pumping that OJ! That means its also time to go nuts with the (natural) hand cleaner and avoid shopping at peak hours. I know Milo will eventually get his first cold, which is fine. That's how we build immune systems, but I do hope we can hold it off for a while.
And last night I had a first. In BG, I used to really enjoy thunderstorms. The thunder would just boom and roll across the sky. Well last night, we warnings of a severe storm moving in. And all of sudden I feared storms. On the Western side of the state they had winds up to 75 MPH. And the warning on the TV said get indoors and stay away from windows. Of course, Milo was asleep in his crib... which is in the corner of the room between two windows. Once the storm moved in there was constant lightening, the electricity went in and out. I felt like a caged lion. I couldn't decide if Milo was safer in his crib, in bed with me, asleep in the swing in the living room?!?!?! I was mostly worried about a tree falling on our house. And if it did, it would fall right on our bedroom. Anyway... I tried to stay calm (sitting wide awake next to the crib) and the storm really moved through fairly quickly. I did put Milo in bed with me after he woke up. I just needed him in my arms after all of that.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Happy Monday
My friend Lauren had her baby this morning! Its so much more exciting... knowing the joy a new parent is in for. WELCOME TO THE WORLD BABY AIDEN! {He's a cutie!!}
Milo is currently asleep in his crib! Last night Milo seemed to be doing some major teething... I think I already told you that. Anyway... he slept in bed with me just because I knew he was uncomfortable. But tonight... we are back to sleeping in the crib for as long as possible without causing any stress.
Nursing is going well again. Still not 100% but fine. I stopped "sleep nursing" so when Milo needs to eat during the night, I actually sit up and feed him properly. I think that is making a big difference. This is kind of off the topic, but because Milo is so big and long... Nathan always says it looks like I'm nursing a toddler. :)
The biggest topic on my mind lately is future children. I know we still have some time to decide. But there are just so many more factors involved with IVF. We don't have a ten year span to have kids. And once we decide... that's final. And my mind changes hourly. I'll go from only wanting Milo to wanting five. But in all honesty, I think we are realistically deciding between one and two. And I think we will probably decide on two... probably fairly close in age. And really... we almost need to do it before we move away from this area. Dr. Shamma made our first experience wonderful and successful. I'd hate to have find another RE Dr. else where. I guess we'll just wait and see how life plays out over the next year or so.
I guess that's really all I have to blog about. Life is pretty great these days. OH Milo did finally laugh for Mommy!!! He would only laugh at Nathan... I don't know why?! I guess he just looks funnier. :) But he finally laughed for me this evening. Oh its just music to my ears.
OK. I hope everyone has a great week!
Milo is currently asleep in his crib! Last night Milo seemed to be doing some major teething... I think I already told you that. Anyway... he slept in bed with me just because I knew he was uncomfortable. But tonight... we are back to sleeping in the crib for as long as possible without causing any stress.
Nursing is going well again. Still not 100% but fine. I stopped "sleep nursing" so when Milo needs to eat during the night, I actually sit up and feed him properly. I think that is making a big difference. This is kind of off the topic, but because Milo is so big and long... Nathan always says it looks like I'm nursing a toddler. :)
The biggest topic on my mind lately is future children. I know we still have some time to decide. But there are just so many more factors involved with IVF. We don't have a ten year span to have kids. And once we decide... that's final. And my mind changes hourly. I'll go from only wanting Milo to wanting five. But in all honesty, I think we are realistically deciding between one and two. And I think we will probably decide on two... probably fairly close in age. And really... we almost need to do it before we move away from this area. Dr. Shamma made our first experience wonderful and successful. I'd hate to have find another RE Dr. else where. I guess we'll just wait and see how life plays out over the next year or so.
I guess that's really all I have to blog about. Life is pretty great these days. OH Milo did finally laugh for Mommy!!! He would only laugh at Nathan... I don't know why?! I guess he just looks funnier. :) But he finally laughed for me this evening. Oh its just music to my ears.
OK. I hope everyone has a great week!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Balloons
Yesterday turned out to be a great day! We ended up going to the Balloon Festival. We made it out just in time to see the sky filled with balloons as they were landing near the airport/fairgrounds. Nathan made a comment about how funny it is that adults get just as excited, if not more, than kids to see hot air balloons. But its just so whimsical... people floating in the sky in baskets suspended from balloons?! Anyway... Milo wasn't too impressed until the night glow. We knew he'd like them based on how much he enjoys watching candles... and sure enough once they were lit up... he just watched and watched. It was a lot of fun. And we ran into our new friends that had the smore party the the other night, which again was so great. So we hung around and chit chatted with them for a while.
After the night glow we ran to the grocery store. We didn't get home until about 9:30. I figured Milo would nurse then go right to sleep. Nope. He was wide awake. He didn't end up falling asleep until about 10:40 or so. But he did sleep in his crib until 5:45!! When he woke up at that point, I 'rewarded' him with a snuggle in bed with Momma. He then woke up around 7:30 for a little bit... now he's back asleep in the swing. I am definitely hopeful about crib sleeping, but I still think being patient and not stressing about it is going to be our best bet for a smooth transition.
After the night glow we ran to the grocery store. We didn't get home until about 9:30. I figured Milo would nurse then go right to sleep. Nope. He was wide awake. He didn't end up falling asleep until about 10:40 or so. But he did sleep in his crib until 5:45!! When he woke up at that point, I 'rewarded' him with a snuggle in bed with Momma. He then woke up around 7:30 for a little bit... now he's back asleep in the swing. I am definitely hopeful about crib sleeping, but I still think being patient and not stressing about it is going to be our best bet for a smooth transition.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Last night was kind of a loooong night. Milo was up, crying every hour or so. I even had him in bed with me and he still wasn't happy. I figured either his leg is sore from the shot (my arm is a bit sore too) or else he's teething. I'm thinking its more likely teething. But we got through the night and a little tylenol helped as well as some homeopathic teething tablets. And he's had a pretty good day.
This afternoon we decided to go swimming with Milo. When I say we went swimming, I mean I put on my bathing suit and Milo and I got in the bathtub. :) It was a lot of fun. Milo just loves the water!! And thankfully he refrained from pooping in the tub. Tomorrow will be Daddy's turn to "swim" with Milo.
And we sold Nathan's old TV today. We're trying to cut the 'stuff' and see if we can get a little extra $$ in. I'm also planning on consigning some of the clothes Milo didn't wear for whatever reason.... scratchy tag, weird fit, etc. The good stuff we're definitely saving for any future Morgans that may come.
Tonight we're hoping to go to the Balloon Festival assuming the weather is ok. They're having another night glow, which I think Milo will really enjoy. Every town we've lived in (with the exception of Memphis... not sure if they have a Balloon Festival) has had a Balloon Festival. I think that's going to be a requirement for the town we 'settle' in.
My longest childhood friend, Lauren, is over due with her first baby... a boy! She's scheduled to be induced tomorrow evening. I'm SOOO excited for her. Knowing the joy that is soon to fill her world... its just so wonderful. And of course we are praying for a smooth, healthy delivery. {Its so neat... our mom's were pregnant with us at the same time 25 years ago... and now within a few months of one another they are becoming Grandma's!}
This afternoon we decided to go swimming with Milo. When I say we went swimming, I mean I put on my bathing suit and Milo and I got in the bathtub. :) It was a lot of fun. Milo just loves the water!! And thankfully he refrained from pooping in the tub. Tomorrow will be Daddy's turn to "swim" with Milo.
And we sold Nathan's old TV today. We're trying to cut the 'stuff' and see if we can get a little extra $$ in. I'm also planning on consigning some of the clothes Milo didn't wear for whatever reason.... scratchy tag, weird fit, etc. The good stuff we're definitely saving for any future Morgans that may come.
Tonight we're hoping to go to the Balloon Festival assuming the weather is ok. They're having another night glow, which I think Milo will really enjoy. Every town we've lived in (with the exception of Memphis... not sure if they have a Balloon Festival) has had a Balloon Festival. I think that's going to be a requirement for the town we 'settle' in.
My longest childhood friend, Lauren, is over due with her first baby... a boy! She's scheduled to be induced tomorrow evening. I'm SOOO excited for her. Knowing the joy that is soon to fill her world... its just so wonderful. And of course we are praying for a smooth, healthy delivery. {Its so neat... our mom's were pregnant with us at the same time 25 years ago... and now within a few months of one another they are becoming Grandma's!}
Friday, September 17, 2010
Sleeping, Safe, Smores
So the transition is going to be just that... a transition. I know its not going to happen over night and that is OK. I'm in no hurry. My goal is to get a few hours in the crib each night. Eventually he should get comfortable sleeping in it. But I'll tell you... there's nothing better than snuggling in with Milo at 4:00 in the morning. {He's currently asleep in the crib. YAY!)
This afternoon we made a quick trip to the doctor's office. I noticed a new, weird bump on Milo's head. It was just like a goose egg... and only one one side. Just to be safe than sorry, I called the doctor's office. And on their part to be safe than sorry... they had us come in. Dr. G was confident its just his skull shifting and nothing to be concerned about. I figured that was the case, but it was good to get the confirmation so I could quit touching it and wondering. I did get a weight update... 16# 4 with clothes on. So I imagine he clothes weighed a few ounces... so he's right at 16 pounds. I seriously cannot keep up with him. His pants today were Old Navy 6-12 months... and they fit him perfectly?! He's definitely a healthy, growing boy! I don't know what percentile that is... but I'm confident its way up there on the charts. I saw a 5 month old leave the office today that looked tiny next to Milo?! Funny stuff.
This evening we went to the home of a mom I met at our mom's group for a smore party! We had a really great time. We really like this family. They have two kids, one of which is a 6 month old named Oliver! And they have a Moby and an Ergo. That's my kind of family!! But really... we enjoyed getting to know this couple and hope there is a friendship blooming. I also have tentative plans with another mom from mom's group for a play date in a couple weeks. Its nice to be meeting some new people. I think I'm also going to a mom's night out planned by some girls from the mom's group this week. Its dinner and drinks, but I will just go for maybe an hour for dinner. I don't have much of a desire to be away from Milo and Nathan... and I am not into the drinking thing. But the dinner part should still be fun.
This afternoon we made a quick trip to the doctor's office. I noticed a new, weird bump on Milo's head. It was just like a goose egg... and only one one side. Just to be safe than sorry, I called the doctor's office. And on their part to be safe than sorry... they had us come in. Dr. G was confident its just his skull shifting and nothing to be concerned about. I figured that was the case, but it was good to get the confirmation so I could quit touching it and wondering. I did get a weight update... 16# 4 with clothes on. So I imagine he clothes weighed a few ounces... so he's right at 16 pounds. I seriously cannot keep up with him. His pants today were Old Navy 6-12 months... and they fit him perfectly?! He's definitely a healthy, growing boy! I don't know what percentile that is... but I'm confident its way up there on the charts. I saw a 5 month old leave the office today that looked tiny next to Milo?! Funny stuff.
This evening we went to the home of a mom I met at our mom's group for a smore party! We had a really great time. We really like this family. They have two kids, one of which is a 6 month old named Oliver! And they have a Moby and an Ergo. That's my kind of family!! But really... we enjoyed getting to know this couple and hope there is a friendship blooming. I also have tentative plans with another mom from mom's group for a play date in a couple weeks. Its nice to be meeting some new people. I think I'm also going to a mom's night out planned by some girls from the mom's group this week. Its dinner and drinks, but I will just go for maybe an hour for dinner. I don't have much of a desire to be away from Milo and Nathan... and I am not into the drinking thing. But the dinner part should still be fun.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Co-Sleeping
While I am VERY happy with my decision to co-sleep, I think I am ready to get him transitioned back to the crib. There are a few reasons: He's becoming very dependent on the sleep nursing... which may be contributing to my new 'cracks.' He's also getting big and taking up more and more room in the bed. And I don't remember Nathan coming to bed last night, or getting out of bed in the morning. I called him this morning at 7:30 worried that he got into an accident or something on his way home from work last night (he had to go back in to prepare for a meeting today.) That means I am starting to sleep sounder... which isn't safe for Milo. So I think tonight we'll put the side back on the crib and separate the bed and crib. I'll still keep the crib beside the bed... just not right up against the bed. We'll see how it goes! While Milo and I both love to snuggle... we all need our space sometimes. And I want to make sure Milo has that.
Piece of Cake
I thought I'd take a quite minute and blog while both kiddos are napping. Milo's shot today went super well. I got my shot first and barely felt a thing which assured me that we had a good poker! I had intentions of nursing Milo while he got the shot, but I realized it was unnecessary. She did a quick poke... Milo gave a HEY! kind of a fuss for about 1 second and was fine. Not a single tear. And he's had a great day since then. I know you still have to watch for side effects for a few days, but so far so good. I am very glad we are doing one shot at a time. While Milo did fine with one poke, I'd hate to see him get multiple pokes in one sitting. And I feel good about our choice to do an alternative schedule. I feel like Milo is so much stronger now than at 8 weeks when he normally would have gotten several. Oh and that's without Tylenol. I wanted to be able to watch for any signs of fever or discomfort, then give Tylenol if necessary, which in Milo's case it was not necessary. I also had an ice pack to ice the area, but again... Milo hasn't shown any signs that he needs that. All in all I'd say Milo's first vaccine was a piece of cake!
Vaccine
Milo is going in for his first vaccine, the DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) in about a half hour. I am also getting the adult TDaP booster. I am terribly nervous. I'm not worried about the poke at all. My nervousness is Milo having a side effect from the shot. Sure. The severe side effects are rare... but its still scary. I took Milo's temp a few minutes ago to verify no notable illness or anything abnormal. And I've said multiple prayers that the vaccine would offer his body protection and not be toxic in any way to his body.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
So I talked to Dr. Jones' nurse today. Basically, she kept assuring me that if Dr. Jones thought it needed immediate attention, he would be taking immediate action. And the PET scan didn't show anything else abnormal in any other part of my body, so I think we'll just wait and see what the CT scan shows in a few months.
The next thing to deal with is the continued nursing problems. Things have definitely improved significantly. I was still have some mild pain, but it was tolerable. Milo is still clamping and chomping. We know he is not tongue tied, its not my milk flow, and its not positioning. I just do not have any clue why he continues to clamp. And I noticed some blood this evening, so apparently I've got another crack. Great. Boy is this super frustrating. I'm going to try and really exhaust all my resources, but if we can't figure it out... we'll have to move on to pumping/bottle feeding. I really, really don't want to. I mean, the most important thing to me is that he is still getting breast milk, but what a hassle!! I love having the milk ready on hand at any second... and not having any dishes to wash. I'll do what I have to do, but I really, really, really hope we can get Milo to stop clamping. And I'm not strongly opposed to formula... but its just not the same as breast milk. We'll see what we can figure out!
The next thing to deal with is the continued nursing problems. Things have definitely improved significantly. I was still have some mild pain, but it was tolerable. Milo is still clamping and chomping. We know he is not tongue tied, its not my milk flow, and its not positioning. I just do not have any clue why he continues to clamp. And I noticed some blood this evening, so apparently I've got another crack. Great. Boy is this super frustrating. I'm going to try and really exhaust all my resources, but if we can't figure it out... we'll have to move on to pumping/bottle feeding. I really, really don't want to. I mean, the most important thing to me is that he is still getting breast milk, but what a hassle!! I love having the milk ready on hand at any second... and not having any dishes to wash. I'll do what I have to do, but I really, really, really hope we can get Milo to stop clamping. And I'm not strongly opposed to formula... but its just not the same as breast milk. We'll see what we can figure out!
Morning Blog
Ah. Nothing like being up at 6:00 am. Most nights, Milo will go to bed, sleep nurse a couple time during the night, and sleep until 8 or so. Occasionally he'll wake up before then and just be awake. He's still yawning, but for whatever reason he's awake. If I can't get him back to sleep after 10-15 minutes in bed, then I'll take him out in the living room and let him swing for a little while... then he falls back asleep and I'll take him back to bed. During this time, I've found its great for blogging.
Anya has started her morning preschool program. So Milo and I will now pick her up from school around 11:15 and bring her back to my house until about 4:30. Yesterday was our first day doing so and it worked out wonderfully. Anya seemed happy when I picked her up from school, ate a great lunch, took a nice nap, and seemed to enjoy herself. Milo always loves having Anya near. I'm definitely very pleased with this arrangement.
Milo is 13 weeks old now, and growing so fast. I can't wait until his 4 month appointment to see how much he has grown. We were looking back at pictures from the hospital... and was so little. It reaffirmed how much we need to cherish these early days while he's still small. His sweet personality comes out more and more each day. Lately he's been sucking his thumb, sometimes with his pointer finger in there, too... and with the other hand he'll play with his hair. He also loves getting kisses. He opens his mouth super wide to kiss us back. Oh its so wet and sweet! He still loves his blankies and likes to have them snuggled up to his face while he sleeps. And he still loves being naked and gettin' "spanks" when we change his diaper. :)
I'm waiting on a call back from Dr. Jones' nurse today. I'm going to have a conversation with her and see if I can get my questions answered more definitively. I've had many people suggest a second opinion... which I may do if I am not satisfied with the answers I get today. Some of my questions are, Did they grow at all since the last scan? Did the PET show anything else questionable elsewhere? Is it common for something to light up but not be cancerous? Are there any other tests that can be done to rule out cancer 100% like a blood test? Did the radiologist confirm? If not cancer, then what? I wish I had asked these questions when I first talked to Dr. Jones, but like I said, he called in the middle of a nap. I just don't know if I can be satisified with I don't think its cancerous. I'd rather hear, it is not cancerous. I just don't want to let this go, then five years down the road have something else spring up that could have been caught early. You know?
I guess that's about it for now. Have a great Wednesday! Oh and Milo gets his first vaccination tomorrow morning. I'm not too concerned as we are only getting one. Hopefully it'll be a quick poke then we'll be on our way.
Anya has started her morning preschool program. So Milo and I will now pick her up from school around 11:15 and bring her back to my house until about 4:30. Yesterday was our first day doing so and it worked out wonderfully. Anya seemed happy when I picked her up from school, ate a great lunch, took a nice nap, and seemed to enjoy herself. Milo always loves having Anya near. I'm definitely very pleased with this arrangement.
Milo is 13 weeks old now, and growing so fast. I can't wait until his 4 month appointment to see how much he has grown. We were looking back at pictures from the hospital... and was so little. It reaffirmed how much we need to cherish these early days while he's still small. His sweet personality comes out more and more each day. Lately he's been sucking his thumb, sometimes with his pointer finger in there, too... and with the other hand he'll play with his hair. He also loves getting kisses. He opens his mouth super wide to kiss us back. Oh its so wet and sweet! He still loves his blankies and likes to have them snuggled up to his face while he sleeps. And he still loves being naked and gettin' "spanks" when we change his diaper. :)
I'm waiting on a call back from Dr. Jones' nurse today. I'm going to have a conversation with her and see if I can get my questions answered more definitively. I've had many people suggest a second opinion... which I may do if I am not satisfied with the answers I get today. Some of my questions are, Did they grow at all since the last scan? Did the PET show anything else questionable elsewhere? Is it common for something to light up but not be cancerous? Are there any other tests that can be done to rule out cancer 100% like a blood test? Did the radiologist confirm? If not cancer, then what? I wish I had asked these questions when I first talked to Dr. Jones, but like I said, he called in the middle of a nap. I just don't know if I can be satisified with I don't think its cancerous. I'd rather hear, it is not cancerous. I just don't want to let this go, then five years down the road have something else spring up that could have been caught early. You know?
I guess that's about it for now. Have a great Wednesday! Oh and Milo gets his first vaccination tomorrow morning. I'm not too concerned as we are only getting one. Hopefully it'll be a quick poke then we'll be on our way.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Got the call...
Dr. Jones finally called... of course while I was in the middle of a GREAT nap! I heard what he said, but I was a little groggy. Anyway... he said the new nodules did light up on the scan, the old one did not, but they were diffused and kind of non-specific. Dr. Jones didn't think they appeared cancerous. So that is GREAT news. But he does want to do another CT scan in 2-4 months. While I am grateful for a good report, I wish it were a bit more black and white and not so gray. I wish they didn't light up at all and that I didn't need another scan. I feel like there's still some lingering unknowns. I have a list of questions that I'll call back and ask... but for now we can thank God for good news! And thank you again for your love, support, and prayers.
Still waiting.
Well... I was hoping we would get the results yesterday, but we didn't. They said he'd call this weekend, so I can only assume the call should come today since its the last day of the weekend.
We ended up only being short on milk by 2 ounces. So he had a 2 ounce bottle of formula. I had two Similac samples and decided to go with the soy formula because it said its easier on the tummy. Milo did fine with it. It did give him formula breathe which I did not like. And it made him have a stinky diaper! This goes without saying, but we were both SO happy to be nursing again.
I am definitely feeling great. No more fevers! I'm glad that's over with. And thank goodness I didn't get Milo, Nathan, Mom, or Dad sick!!
Aside from us all being glued to my cell phone... we've been enjoying my parent's company. I think Milo has especially enjoyed it. He looks at his grandparents with such loving eyes. Its so sweet! OH and since mom was up here during the Little Angels Attic Sale (a massive children's consignment sale in BG that benefits community charities) 'Grandpa' went for us and found two nice warm winter hats and a flannel sheet for Milo. Any man willing to enter those doors truly loves his child/grandchild. It can get crazy. But he also helped set up so he was able to shop early.
Oh and on Friday I got my haircut for the first time in 16 weeks! Boy did I need it. My hair was the longest its been in a long time and a mess. And when it gets long it just falls out like crazy. I ended up getting an adorable chin length cut that's a little stacked in the back. Its simple, cute, and easy... the perfect mommy cut. But apparently the hair falling out is more hormone related... because I'm still shedding. From what I understand... that's normal post baby stuff.
I guess that's about it. We plan to go for a drive over to the 'thumb' of Michigan to a fall festival today and see what we can get into. Sitting around the house 'waiting' is not an option. If nothing else, this has been a great reminder not to waste time... because you never know what's around the corner.
We ended up only being short on milk by 2 ounces. So he had a 2 ounce bottle of formula. I had two Similac samples and decided to go with the soy formula because it said its easier on the tummy. Milo did fine with it. It did give him formula breathe which I did not like. And it made him have a stinky diaper! This goes without saying, but we were both SO happy to be nursing again.
I am definitely feeling great. No more fevers! I'm glad that's over with. And thank goodness I didn't get Milo, Nathan, Mom, or Dad sick!!
Aside from us all being glued to my cell phone... we've been enjoying my parent's company. I think Milo has especially enjoyed it. He looks at his grandparents with such loving eyes. Its so sweet! OH and since mom was up here during the Little Angels Attic Sale (a massive children's consignment sale in BG that benefits community charities) 'Grandpa' went for us and found two nice warm winter hats and a flannel sheet for Milo. Any man willing to enter those doors truly loves his child/grandchild. It can get crazy. But he also helped set up so he was able to shop early.
Oh and on Friday I got my haircut for the first time in 16 weeks! Boy did I need it. My hair was the longest its been in a long time and a mess. And when it gets long it just falls out like crazy. I ended up getting an adorable chin length cut that's a little stacked in the back. Its simple, cute, and easy... the perfect mommy cut. But apparently the hair falling out is more hormone related... because I'm still shedding. From what I understand... that's normal post baby stuff.
I guess that's about it. We plan to go for a drive over to the 'thumb' of Michigan to a fall festival today and see what we can get into. Sitting around the house 'waiting' is not an option. If nothing else, this has been a great reminder not to waste time... because you never know what's around the corner.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Dr. Jones' office called yesterday to say the results of my PET were in, but he still needed to review the results, then he would contact me. I guess he usually does this on the weekends, but knowing my situation, they put a note on his desk to go ahead and take care of mine in case he comes back into the office early. And even if he doesn't, hopefully he'll move mine to the top of the pile. So I'm hoping to hear from him soon.
Its currently 3:50 am... and Milo only has 2 ounces of milk left. Hm. As little as he ate the first day, I thought there was no way he'd polish off all 52 ounces... but he did. So after those last 2 ounces... we'll have to do formula. We'll see how that goes. And I want to pump one more time right around 9:30, just to be certain I "pump'n dumped" for a full 48 hours. Fortunately, he doesn't eat that much in the mornings, so he may take those last 2 ounces and be fine until I can nurse him again. Oh I cannot wait!!
I did take Tylenol I think only once yesterday when I noticed my temp creeping up a bit, but for the most part... it seems to be gone. Hopefully it stays that way. My throat is pretty sore, but that seems to be it right now. Hopefully I'm at the tail end of whatever it was I was fighting. And, knock on wood and thank goodness, no one else seems to have caught it. I truly hope I am not talking too soon, but I really hope I was able to keep this to myself and not spread it to Nathan, mom, or most importantly Milo.
Its currently 3:50 am... and Milo only has 2 ounces of milk left. Hm. As little as he ate the first day, I thought there was no way he'd polish off all 52 ounces... but he did. So after those last 2 ounces... we'll have to do formula. We'll see how that goes. And I want to pump one more time right around 9:30, just to be certain I "pump'n dumped" for a full 48 hours. Fortunately, he doesn't eat that much in the mornings, so he may take those last 2 ounces and be fine until I can nurse him again. Oh I cannot wait!!
I did take Tylenol I think only once yesterday when I noticed my temp creeping up a bit, but for the most part... it seems to be gone. Hopefully it stays that way. My throat is pretty sore, but that seems to be it right now. Hopefully I'm at the tail end of whatever it was I was fighting. And, knock on wood and thank goodness, no one else seems to have caught it. I truly hope I am not talking too soon, but I really hope I was able to keep this to myself and not spread it to Nathan, mom, or most importantly Milo.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Ready to get back to normal...
Today was hard. I missed an entire day of my son's life. That stinks. My scariest thought is that if I am sick... I would miss out on so much of my son's life. Coming home was hard. He doesn't understand why I left him all day. And the hardest thing... he doesn't understand why I won't nurse him. It absolutely breaks my heart. I've had tears a few times today.
I'm glad the PET scan is over. Now I just need to get rid of whatever I'm fighting right now. This evening, I ended up with another fever 103.5! Fortunately the Tylenol brought it back down. I've also had a minor sore through, minor headache, and minor shortness of breathe. When I breathe, I feel like I've been exercising out in the cold... you know that feeling? I don't think it is related to the lung nodules... it would be too coincidental to have first symptoms at the same time as the scan. I think I just happened to pick up a bug elsewhere. But... it stinks!
I'm just ready to hear my good results, feel better, get through the 48 hours of pumping and dumping and get back to our wonderful life with our beautiful boo bear.
Please continue to pray. Boy... my mom thought the whole grandma thing was a walk in the park... she had no idea she'd be put to work so much. But I am SO GRATEFUL for her.
I am also grateful for my wonderful husband. He is such a great dad... he has really stepped up during this time. And he wrote me a beautiful note last night that I kept in my pocket all day. I couldn't have hand picked a more amazing man.
I'm glad the PET scan is over. Now I just need to get rid of whatever I'm fighting right now. This evening, I ended up with another fever 103.5! Fortunately the Tylenol brought it back down. I've also had a minor sore through, minor headache, and minor shortness of breathe. When I breathe, I feel like I've been exercising out in the cold... you know that feeling? I don't think it is related to the lung nodules... it would be too coincidental to have first symptoms at the same time as the scan. I think I just happened to pick up a bug elsewhere. But... it stinks!
I'm just ready to hear my good results, feel better, get through the 48 hours of pumping and dumping and get back to our wonderful life with our beautiful boo bear.
Please continue to pray. Boy... my mom thought the whole grandma thing was a walk in the park... she had no idea she'd be put to work so much. But I am SO GRATEFUL for her.
I am also grateful for my wonderful husband. He is such a great dad... he has really stepped up during this time. And he wrote me a beautiful note last night that I kept in my pocket all day. I couldn't have hand picked a more amazing man.
It's 2:07 pm... And I really miss my baby boy... But I'm hanging in there. I know he is in great hands. Last I heard Milo is napping well but not happy about the bottle and is making that clearly known. Last update was he had only drank 1.5 oz. But we simply have no choice. But I think as the day progressed and as he gets hungrier he'll give in. He is napping well and waking up happy... So that's encouraging.
I've just been relaxing, reading, painting my toenails, etc so it's not too bad. And I did get a good two hour nap in while we waited for the radioactive dye to be absorbed by all my organs. And I called my doctors office to stress the impotence of getting the results asap while I have my parents for the additional support.
Thank you SO much for the support and prayers... As always, I'll update when we know something
I've just been relaxing, reading, painting my toenails, etc so it's not too bad. And I did get a good two hour nap in while we waited for the radioactive dye to be absorbed by all my organs. And I called my doctors office to stress the impotence of getting the results asap while I have my parents for the additional support.
Thank you SO much for the support and prayers... As always, I'll update when we know something
PET
It's about 3:30 am right now and Milo is asleep in the swing. He just woke up crying, so I tried to walk him back to sleep, but he wouldn't fall back asleep. I set him in the swing and he instantly passed out. I guess he just wanted to sleep in the swing. I don't know. But now I am awake, so I thought I'd blog real quick.
I think we are all set for tomorrow. I've gone over directions with my mom. I've told her things she already knows. And have repeated myself four times. LOL. I know Milo, Mom, and Nathan will do great tomorrow. And I'll be able to return at 9:30 pm. So while I still won't be able to nurse him, at least I'll be there during the night.
I have a bag packed with food, nail polish (I'm going to do my toe nails... there are still remains from my pedicure done four weeks before Milo was born!), magazines, and the ipod. I will also have with me, pictures of my Milo and one of his blankies. Oh and I'm thinking I might try to take a nap if I can. So I'm really going to try to embrace the time away if possible. But the most important thing I will be doing is drinking... a lot! That's how the radioactive dye leaves your system... so the more ya drink the faster it leaves your body.
We've said our prayers, and believe all will be well. I'm hoping for the results within 24-48 hours. I will update as soon as we hear the results.
I think we are all set for tomorrow. I've gone over directions with my mom. I've told her things she already knows. And have repeated myself four times. LOL. I know Milo, Mom, and Nathan will do great tomorrow. And I'll be able to return at 9:30 pm. So while I still won't be able to nurse him, at least I'll be there during the night.
I have a bag packed with food, nail polish (I'm going to do my toe nails... there are still remains from my pedicure done four weeks before Milo was born!), magazines, and the ipod. I will also have with me, pictures of my Milo and one of his blankies. Oh and I'm thinking I might try to take a nap if I can. So I'm really going to try to embrace the time away if possible. But the most important thing I will be doing is drinking... a lot! That's how the radioactive dye leaves your system... so the more ya drink the faster it leaves your body.
We've said our prayers, and believe all will be well. I'm hoping for the results within 24-48 hours. I will update as soon as we hear the results.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Milo Laughed!
While the past two weekends have been wonderful... this evening was by far the highlight when Milo laughed for the very first time. Oh my goodness was it precious! I was on the phone and heard Nathan trying to get my attention. When I walked into the living room, Milo was laughing at Nathan. I immediately started crying, then grabbed the camera. It just melted my heart... I mean melted like a stick of butter on the hot Memphis pavement kind of melted. I'm just glad he did it this evening and not during the time I have to be away from him. I told Nathan not to tell me about anything cute he does while I'm away!
We'll pick mom up from the airport tomorrow. {SO EXCITED!} Then we'll have the rest of the day to get her reacquainted with Milo and fill her in on the day to day details. Tomorrow I also have to do the low carb, high protein diet for the day. Then Wednesday morning is the PET. I have stored about 52 ounces of milk. I'm pretty sure we'll now have plenty to get him through the 48 hours post PET. I plan on taking one of Milo's blankets and a picture with me while I have to be gone. I know we'll all make it through, but I just want something to physically hold and see to help me through. And the plan is to spend the day at my friend's parent's house. I have a stack of magazines to read and will try to embrace the quiet as best I can.
OK... I need to go. Nathan's been carrying Milo in the football hold trying to alleviate some gas pains. Not that there's anything I can do that Nathan can't to help... but you know how it is.
We'll pick mom up from the airport tomorrow. {SO EXCITED!} Then we'll have the rest of the day to get her reacquainted with Milo and fill her in on the day to day details. Tomorrow I also have to do the low carb, high protein diet for the day. Then Wednesday morning is the PET. I have stored about 52 ounces of milk. I'm pretty sure we'll now have plenty to get him through the 48 hours post PET. I plan on taking one of Milo's blankets and a picture with me while I have to be gone. I know we'll all make it through, but I just want something to physically hold and see to help me through. And the plan is to spend the day at my friend's parent's house. I have a stack of magazines to read and will try to embrace the quiet as best I can.
OK... I need to go. Nathan's been carrying Milo in the football hold trying to alleviate some gas pains. Not that there's anything I can do that Nathan can't to help... but you know how it is.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Untitled
{Mommy and Milo wrapped snugly in the Moby before a cool evening walk to rent a movie...}
Its 5:10 a.m. I should not be awake... but Milo had other plans. So I came out in the living room and put him in the swing where he fell back asleep. Unfortunately now I am awake. Perfect time to blog, right?
I've got to say that with the PET scan nearing... Its weighing heavier and heavier on my mind. Mom and I had a good conversation the other night. It was kind of the first time she expressed how scary the thought of me being sick really is for my parents. We both choked back tears. And I completely understand. I cannot imagine the thought of something being wrong with Milo. But it is important to share your feelings... we all have to support one another. I'm glad she (and my dad depending on when we get the results) will be here with us to hopefully celebrate good news, but also be here for extra support if the news is not what we hope. Nathan and I have also had several conversations about 'what if.' But the hardest thoughts are relating to Milo. What if I am sick and have to go through treatment? What will I miss? And what if the worst case scenario happens and I only get to be in Milo's life for a year? Will he truly ever know how much I loved him? Yeah. I know it doesn't help thinking that... but you can't help but think about the what ifs.
Mom has a friend in her HOG chapter that has been battling cancer for several years. We have said many prayers for her. And I'm so grateful God put her in my parent's life. I think even just through the scary unknown time, she has been very supportive. And I know that if our news is not good, she will continue to be supportive to us both.
I guess this post is just to say that, yes I am scared. But we remain hopeful that all is well.
In terms of the first 48 hours after the scan... I'm feeling better. I've put Milo to bed twice now with out nursing him to sleep. And as I found this morning... when he wakes up just wanting to comfort nurse... putting him in the swing should put him right back to sleep if all else fails. We just have to hope and pray he takes the bottle. Once I'm certain I have enough milk stored... I'd like to have Nathan try giving him a bottle once before the test. And in all honesty, I'm sure once he gets hungrier enough he'll take it. So I think we should be in good shape.
OK. I need to get Milo back into his bed, and get myself back there as well. I hope you are each enjoying the holiday weekend. We sure are!!!
{And on a side note... we rented City Island... it was GREAT!}
Its 5:10 a.m. I should not be awake... but Milo had other plans. So I came out in the living room and put him in the swing where he fell back asleep. Unfortunately now I am awake. Perfect time to blog, right?
I've got to say that with the PET scan nearing... Its weighing heavier and heavier on my mind. Mom and I had a good conversation the other night. It was kind of the first time she expressed how scary the thought of me being sick really is for my parents. We both choked back tears. And I completely understand. I cannot imagine the thought of something being wrong with Milo. But it is important to share your feelings... we all have to support one another. I'm glad she (and my dad depending on when we get the results) will be here with us to hopefully celebrate good news, but also be here for extra support if the news is not what we hope. Nathan and I have also had several conversations about 'what if.' But the hardest thoughts are relating to Milo. What if I am sick and have to go through treatment? What will I miss? And what if the worst case scenario happens and I only get to be in Milo's life for a year? Will he truly ever know how much I loved him? Yeah. I know it doesn't help thinking that... but you can't help but think about the what ifs.
Mom has a friend in her HOG chapter that has been battling cancer for several years. We have said many prayers for her. And I'm so grateful God put her in my parent's life. I think even just through the scary unknown time, she has been very supportive. And I know that if our news is not good, she will continue to be supportive to us both.
I guess this post is just to say that, yes I am scared. But we remain hopeful that all is well.
In terms of the first 48 hours after the scan... I'm feeling better. I've put Milo to bed twice now with out nursing him to sleep. And as I found this morning... when he wakes up just wanting to comfort nurse... putting him in the swing should put him right back to sleep if all else fails. We just have to hope and pray he takes the bottle. Once I'm certain I have enough milk stored... I'd like to have Nathan try giving him a bottle once before the test. And in all honesty, I'm sure once he gets hungrier enough he'll take it. So I think we should be in good shape.
OK. I need to get Milo back into his bed, and get myself back there as well. I hope you are each enjoying the holiday weekend. We sure are!!!
{And on a side note... we rented City Island... it was GREAT!}
Friday, September 3, 2010
Watching Milo Grow
Great news... I can finally fit back into my pants from last fall/winter! Phew... I was gettin' worried.
Also a quick update... My friend Kendra's parents have offered to let me stay with them while I have to be away from Milo. Is that so kind or what?!
And finally I thought I'd blog about what Milo's up to these days... At just shy of three months {so hard to believe!} he is so chatty!! And he is also more expressive when's upset. While I don't like when he cries... its great seeing the early communication skills developing. He'll say Goo, Key, a sound that sounds like cookies, and many more. - He is also enjoying grabbing and playing with toys. On his saucer thing... he will actually grab at the toys and pull them to his mouth, and he can spin this little barrel thing that makes noise. - He hasn't rolled since the day he rolled twice. I guess he wasn't impressed with the results last time. - He wakes up every morning with a smile, and smiles everyday when his daddy comes home from work. - I've bumped his head a couple times, forgetting how long he is... usually while getting him in the car seat. Woops! - He loves touching our faces and grabbing our noses. He especially likes feeling daddy's scruffy face and pulling my hair EVERY chance he gets. - OH and he can totally stand supporting his own weight entirely. We'll hold his hands for balance, but he does all the heavy lifting and holds his head straight up. - He's still enjoying his showers but doesn't like laying back in the crook of my arm... he prefers being held up right. - And he still LOVES being naked. Sometimes he cries when we try to put his diaper back on him.
We are really enjoying watching Milo grow... although it is a little sad, too. I have a bunch of clothes set aside that I think are too big. Three times this week, I've tried something on him that I thought would be too big and here it barely fits! I just can't keep up with him. And we are about done with footed jammies... They're baggy around his body, but his feet are too big!
Also a quick update... My friend Kendra's parents have offered to let me stay with them while I have to be away from Milo. Is that so kind or what?!
And finally I thought I'd blog about what Milo's up to these days... At just shy of three months {so hard to believe!} he is so chatty!! And he is also more expressive when's upset. While I don't like when he cries... its great seeing the early communication skills developing. He'll say Goo, Key, a sound that sounds like cookies, and many more. - He is also enjoying grabbing and playing with toys. On his saucer thing... he will actually grab at the toys and pull them to his mouth, and he can spin this little barrel thing that makes noise. - He hasn't rolled since the day he rolled twice. I guess he wasn't impressed with the results last time. - He wakes up every morning with a smile, and smiles everyday when his daddy comes home from work. - I've bumped his head a couple times, forgetting how long he is... usually while getting him in the car seat. Woops! - He loves touching our faces and grabbing our noses. He especially likes feeling daddy's scruffy face and pulling my hair EVERY chance he gets. - OH and he can totally stand supporting his own weight entirely. We'll hold his hands for balance, but he does all the heavy lifting and holds his head straight up. - He's still enjoying his showers but doesn't like laying back in the crook of my arm... he prefers being held up right. - And he still LOVES being naked. Sometimes he cries when we try to put his diaper back on him.
We are really enjoying watching Milo grow... although it is a little sad, too. I have a bunch of clothes set aside that I think are too big. Three times this week, I've tried something on him that I thought would be too big and here it barely fits! I just can't keep up with him. And we are about done with footed jammies... They're baggy around his body, but his feet are too big!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
PET Scan is back on
The PET scan is back on. We considered a few other options, but after discussing things with Nathan, my parents, and the doctor's office, we've decided this is really the necessary route at this point. So Mom will fly up on Tuesday to help care for Milo during and after my scan on Wed. I still have some questions, but I think this is just what needs to be done at this point. I think I will have enough milk stored by then. And I know Nathan and my mom will take great care of Milo. I'm not worried about him eating or during the day. But I'm not sure how the evening will go. I usually nurse Milo for about an hour to get him to sleep. {I know that's a bad habit, but I don't care. What if I am sick and have to stop nursing altogether. I am learning to cherish the closeness with Milo right now. We can break bad habits later.} BUT I'm not sure how mom and Nathan will get him to sleep. I guess he will eventually crash, but I don't want it to be stressful on anyone, especially Milo. Maybe he'll end up sleeping in the swing. I just need to not worry. And if they have to stay up all night with him... so be it. Like I said... I know they'll take good care of him. Its just going to be so hard to be away from him for that long. I still have some questions like how quarantined do I need to be? Can I even stay in a hotel???
I'll end the post with this:
Nathan found this while going through some old documents on the computer. I wrote this poem on August 30th 2007. I know its not the greatest poem, but it was neat to find this.
My child. I dream.
I wonder in silence.
Your smell. Your skin.
What you will someday become.
My child. Hours spent.
Imagining what I will feel.
When I see you. When I hold you.
When we meet.
My child. I wonder.
Who you will be.
Pink ribbons. Muddy Jeans.
A blessing each.
My child. I love you.
I am your Mom.
Perfect. Beautiful.
I love you today and forever.
Nathan also found a five year timeline I made around the same time. And I included Milo's birthday by name... although at that time I anticipated that being July 2008! So 'Milo' was truly the baby I had been waiting for.
I'll end the post with this:
Nathan found this while going through some old documents on the computer. I wrote this poem on August 30th 2007. I know its not the greatest poem, but it was neat to find this.
My child. I dream.
I wonder in silence.
Your smell. Your skin.
What you will someday become.
My child. Hours spent.
Imagining what I will feel.
When I see you. When I hold you.
When we meet.
My child. I wonder.
Who you will be.
Pink ribbons. Muddy Jeans.
A blessing each.
My child. I love you.
I am your Mom.
Perfect. Beautiful.
I love you today and forever.
Nathan also found a five year timeline I made around the same time. And I included Milo's birthday by name... although at that time I anticipated that being July 2008! So 'Milo' was truly the baby I had been waiting for.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)