I am back.
Wow, that was a crazy few days.
I was sick as a dog.
In addition to my cold from heck, I also had mastitis. If you've never had it, good. You don't want it.
I had to go to the doctor when my temperature stayed at 103 with ibuprofen and I felt worse than after my c-section. Fortunately, I started feeling better after the second dose of medication. I am still low on energy but am definitely on the mend.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Even Sicker
Blegh.
I feel. . . awful.
I know there are some nasty bugs going around and this one has taken me down. Even with Tylenol, my fever is hovering around the 101 - 102 level. I am a nasty coughing mess.
On the plus side, I did a phone interview today for what appears to be a good work from home job. It's doing blog research for a Seattle-based company. In fact, they could be reading this right now, since I gave them my blog address as part of the resume submission process.
If you are reading this, J, I apologize for sounding like Darth Vadar. My normal speaking voice is not that deep and gravely. But wait! If you liked that voice, I can take up smoking! Anything to get the job*. I'm dedicated like that.
*Okay, I won't really take up smoking. But I will work very hard for your company.
I feel. . . awful.
I know there are some nasty bugs going around and this one has taken me down. Even with Tylenol, my fever is hovering around the 101 - 102 level. I am a nasty coughing mess.
On the plus side, I did a phone interview today for what appears to be a good work from home job. It's doing blog research for a Seattle-based company. In fact, they could be reading this right now, since I gave them my blog address as part of the resume submission process.
If you are reading this, J, I apologize for sounding like Darth Vadar. My normal speaking voice is not that deep and gravely. But wait! If you liked that voice, I can take up smoking! Anything to get the job*. I'm dedicated like that.
*Okay, I won't really take up smoking. But I will work very hard for your company.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
There ARE No Sick Days
I have come to the conclusion that, once you are a mom, there are no sick days anymore. So it's a very good thing that, morning sickness excluded, I don't really get sick very often. A leftover benefit of working in hospitals and doctor's offices so long, is that I have a sort of Super Immunity! I will occasionally feel a cold coming on and will be able to fend it off with a good night's rest and an extra dose of vitamin C, but this time I was not as lucky.
And man, am I sick. I tossed and turned all night long, waking up congested, mutiple times. My sinuses are on fire. I had a dream that a man was kicking me in the head. I woke up knowing it was a dream, but feeling as if it had really happened. I also had the chills so I went downstairs for some water and took my temperature - 102. Ugh. I took some Tylenol and tried to go back to sleep, but again, no such luck. I was just too congested and uncomfortable.
Even with Tylenol, I am still an achy, fevery mess. I am coughing that rattley cough that comes from post-nasal drip. I am 100% sure that I have a sinus infection, but I am keeping fingers crossed that it is viral and I will kick it on my own. I am using saline spray and Vick's baby rub on my own chest. The one thing that I dislike about nursing is that I can't take anything for the congestion or cough.
Well, that's enough moaning for now. The kids haven't gotten the memo that Mommy is sick, one wants to snuggle and one wants to play with Play-doh.
And man, am I sick. I tossed and turned all night long, waking up congested, mutiple times. My sinuses are on fire. I had a dream that a man was kicking me in the head. I woke up knowing it was a dream, but feeling as if it had really happened. I also had the chills so I went downstairs for some water and took my temperature - 102. Ugh. I took some Tylenol and tried to go back to sleep, but again, no such luck. I was just too congested and uncomfortable.
Even with Tylenol, I am still an achy, fevery mess. I am coughing that rattley cough that comes from post-nasal drip. I am 100% sure that I have a sinus infection, but I am keeping fingers crossed that it is viral and I will kick it on my own. I am using saline spray and Vick's baby rub on my own chest. The one thing that I dislike about nursing is that I can't take anything for the congestion or cough.
Well, that's enough moaning for now. The kids haven't gotten the memo that Mommy is sick, one wants to snuggle and one wants to play with Play-doh.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Answered Prayer
Two cribs.
Two kids.
Napping at the same time.
Thank you, God.
(P.S. It only lasted 53 minutes, but oh what a 53 minutes it was!)
Two kids.
Napping at the same time.
Thank you, God.
(P.S. It only lasted 53 minutes, but oh what a 53 minutes it was!)
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Hyland's Teething Tablet Recall
As someone who has advocated the use of these tablets, I felt it necessary to post this recall notice.
If you have the affected lot of tablets, you can return them to the company for a refund. The Hyland’s Teething Tablets UPC codes included in the recall are:
1.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75041
2.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 250 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75042
3.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75066
4.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 50 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75044
5.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 145 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75121
6.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, Clip Strip 6x125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 35109
From the FDA Website:
ISSUE: FDA notified consumers that Hyland’s Teething Tablets is being recalled because the tablets may pose a risk to children. The tablets are manufactured to contain a small amount of belladonna, a substance that can cause serious harm at larger doses. For such a product, it is important that the amount of belladonna be carefully controlled. FDA laboratory analysis has found that Hyland’s Teething Tablets contain inconsistent amounts of belladonna.
FDA has received reports of serious adverse events in children taking this product that are consistent with belladonna toxicity. The FDA has also received reports of children who consumed more tablets than recommended, because the containers do not have child resistant caps.
BACKGROUND: Hyland’s Teething Tablets is a homeopathic product, intended to provide temporary relief of teething symptoms in children. It is sold over-the-counter (OTC) in retail outlets. The FDA has not evaluated Hyland’s Teething Tablets for safety or efficacy, and is not aware of any proven clinical benefit offered by the product.
RECOMMENDATION: FDA recommends that consumers not use this product and dispose of any in their possession. FDA advises consumers to consult their health care professional if their child experiences symptoms such as seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation after using Hyland’s Teething Tablets.
If you have the affected lot of tablets, you can return them to the company for a refund. The Hyland’s Teething Tablets UPC codes included in the recall are:
1.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75041
2.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 250 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75042
3.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75066
4.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 50 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75044
5.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 145 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75121
6.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, Clip Strip 6x125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 35109
From the FDA Website:
ISSUE: FDA notified consumers that Hyland’s Teething Tablets is being recalled because the tablets may pose a risk to children. The tablets are manufactured to contain a small amount of belladonna, a substance that can cause serious harm at larger doses. For such a product, it is important that the amount of belladonna be carefully controlled. FDA laboratory analysis has found that Hyland’s Teething Tablets contain inconsistent amounts of belladonna.
FDA has received reports of serious adverse events in children taking this product that are consistent with belladonna toxicity. The FDA has also received reports of children who consumed more tablets than recommended, because the containers do not have child resistant caps.
BACKGROUND: Hyland’s Teething Tablets is a homeopathic product, intended to provide temporary relief of teething symptoms in children. It is sold over-the-counter (OTC) in retail outlets. The FDA has not evaluated Hyland’s Teething Tablets for safety or efficacy, and is not aware of any proven clinical benefit offered by the product.
RECOMMENDATION: FDA recommends that consumers not use this product and dispose of any in their possession. FDA advises consumers to consult their health care professional if their child experiences symptoms such as seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation after using Hyland’s Teething Tablets.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Weighty Matters
I am three months post-partum and tired of looking more pregnant than I did at six months. Though I have lost the official Baby Weight, I am still a bit heavier than I would like, and completely out of shape. The worst part is the ridiculous gut that I am hauling around. I have a reverse fat shelf.
Now I know that it will shrink in time, but I would like to do something to help nature along. I also am aware that having a c-section increases the time for things to "go back" to normal (and that they really never will).
I am walking almost daily, pushing the double stroller going at least two miles, one mile of that up a pretty steep hill. But I know that I need to do more. Much more. Before I got pregnant with Emma, I was regularly walking 5 - 7 miles, at least four times per week. I wasn't in great shape, but I was in decent shape and was pretty happy with how I looked.
About five years ago, I regularly did the Firm. I loved it. I loved the relatively quick workout (45 minutes) and the fact that didn't need a lot of equipment, just the step box and hand weights, which I already have. It didn't happen overnight, but I did get awesome results.
I am considering dusting off the DVDs and step box and getting back to what worked before. But I also have heard some good things about other videos, most specifically P90X and the Shred. P90X is spendy and I have heard the Shred is very difficult.
I am wanting to know two things:
1) What programs have you used? Were you successful and what did it really take?
2) Is anyone interested in doing a program "with" me? I am kind of thinking of starting November 1. I would post "Before" pictures and starting stats and then will post daily (or as often as possible) progress notes. I can link to those interested in doing the same. I think this will really keep me accountable. I know the holidays might throw us all off track, but at least we can try to get the ball rolling. I don't think we'd have to do the same program, it's more just having people to commiserate with.
Okay, weigh in. Pun so intended!
Now I know that it will shrink in time, but I would like to do something to help nature along. I also am aware that having a c-section increases the time for things to "go back" to normal (and that they really never will).
I am walking almost daily, pushing the double stroller going at least two miles, one mile of that up a pretty steep hill. But I know that I need to do more. Much more. Before I got pregnant with Emma, I was regularly walking 5 - 7 miles, at least four times per week. I wasn't in great shape, but I was in decent shape and was pretty happy with how I looked.
About five years ago, I regularly did the Firm. I loved it. I loved the relatively quick workout (45 minutes) and the fact that didn't need a lot of equipment, just the step box and hand weights, which I already have. It didn't happen overnight, but I did get awesome results.
I am considering dusting off the DVDs and step box and getting back to what worked before. But I also have heard some good things about other videos, most specifically P90X and the Shred. P90X is spendy and I have heard the Shred is very difficult.
I am wanting to know two things:
1) What programs have you used? Were you successful and what did it really take?
2) Is anyone interested in doing a program "with" me? I am kind of thinking of starting November 1. I would post "Before" pictures and starting stats and then will post daily (or as often as possible) progress notes. I can link to those interested in doing the same. I think this will really keep me accountable. I know the holidays might throw us all off track, but at least we can try to get the ball rolling. I don't think we'd have to do the same program, it's more just having people to commiserate with.
Okay, weigh in. Pun so intended!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Back to Normal - Whatever THAT Is!
Well.
That was a very intense case of Grammaitis. Thank goodness it was also a short-lived one. We now return to our regularly scheduled programming of the usual toddler antics. We are lucky with Will, in that he is two, but he is relatively mild compared to many other kids his age.
I also have to wonder if he isn't getting his two year molars. He was sucking on his hand a lot yesterday and I saw a red welt on his gums when we were brushing his teeth last night. He seemed okay pain-wise, so I didn't give him anything for it, but I do think that could make him a little out of sorts.
We went to the zoo today. It was a beautiful day and not too crowded. Will especially enjoyed the indoor play area where they had a music hour and he got to try out different instruments.
Emma is three months old. I just don't know how that happened. I packed up some of her newborn and smaller 0 - 3 month clothes this weekend that she has outgrown. We borrowed most of them, so I had to pack them up separately to send back to the appropriate lender. It made me a bit wistful, but I am eager for the fun times to come. She is a regular flirt, with lots of smiles and has taken up cooing. She also has laughed a few times and it's just precious.
That was a very intense case of Grammaitis. Thank goodness it was also a short-lived one. We now return to our regularly scheduled programming of the usual toddler antics. We are lucky with Will, in that he is two, but he is relatively mild compared to many other kids his age.
I also have to wonder if he isn't getting his two year molars. He was sucking on his hand a lot yesterday and I saw a red welt on his gums when we were brushing his teeth last night. He seemed okay pain-wise, so I didn't give him anything for it, but I do think that could make him a little out of sorts.
We went to the zoo today. It was a beautiful day and not too crowded. Will especially enjoyed the indoor play area where they had a music hour and he got to try out different instruments.
Emma is three months old. I just don't know how that happened. I packed up some of her newborn and smaller 0 - 3 month clothes this weekend that she has outgrown. We borrowed most of them, so I had to pack them up separately to send back to the appropriate lender. It made me a bit wistful, but I am eager for the fun times to come. She is a regular flirt, with lots of smiles and has taken up cooing. She also has laughed a few times and it's just precious.
Monday, October 18, 2010
A Case of the Mondays
Will spent the weekend with his Gramma. He must have had a great time, because he has a raging case of Grammaitis. Seriously, it is just not worth the "break" anymore.
We went to our usually Mom and Toddler Group this morning and I had to put him in Time Out so many times that I lost track. I finally had to do something that I never had to do before: We had to leave the playdate. Once we were home, he seemed a bit better, but everything has still been a huge fight from diaper changes to naps.
I really wish I knew what causes Grammaitis. I know my MIL doesn't really make him take a nap, so perhaps it's exhaustion. He is still pretty used to a two to three hour nap here at home. I also think he enjoys being the "only" child again, but is that really enough for such a reaction? He seems happy to be home and glad to see us, but then we have this behavior. It really is frustrating.
As a result of his behavior and the fact that it's cloudy after a sunny weekend, and I now have a case of the Mondays. Here's hoping for a better week for all of us.
We went to our usually Mom and Toddler Group this morning and I had to put him in Time Out so many times that I lost track. I finally had to do something that I never had to do before: We had to leave the playdate. Once we were home, he seemed a bit better, but everything has still been a huge fight from diaper changes to naps.
I really wish I knew what causes Grammaitis. I know my MIL doesn't really make him take a nap, so perhaps it's exhaustion. He is still pretty used to a two to three hour nap here at home. I also think he enjoys being the "only" child again, but is that really enough for such a reaction? He seems happy to be home and glad to see us, but then we have this behavior. It really is frustrating.
As a result of his behavior and the fact that it's cloudy after a sunny weekend, and I now have a case of the Mondays. Here's hoping for a better week for all of us.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Remembering Our Babies
The longer that I write here, the more this becomes a parenting blog. More and more entries of life with my amazing children start to bury and obscure the painful entries of my infertility past. But that past is there, those babies were lost. I think of them every day and especially today.
Today is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In addition to my own angels, I am also lighting a candle for my sister-in-law's and sister's lost babies. Though I am holding my sweet daughter as I type these words, I still am wistful today, thinking of the babies that I never got to hold in my arms, yet carry in my heart. When Emma smiles, it makes me think of all the smiles I will never see, and be so grateful for the ones that I will.
My heart goes out to all of you and the babies that you have lost. This is a wonderful tribute and sad day all at once and I thinking of you.
Today is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In addition to my own angels, I am also lighting a candle for my sister-in-law's and sister's lost babies. Though I am holding my sweet daughter as I type these words, I still am wistful today, thinking of the babies that I never got to hold in my arms, yet carry in my heart. When Emma smiles, it makes me think of all the smiles I will never see, and be so grateful for the ones that I will.
My heart goes out to all of you and the babies that you have lost. This is a wonderful tribute and sad day all at once and I thinking of you.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Two at Three
Well, I am now 12 weeks into this whole parenting two business. Emma was a very easy newborn as newborns go, but she has been giving me a real run for my money the past two weeks. She has actually been better during the day for the past few days BUT (and this is a huge BUT), she has now stopped sleeping through the night and is up as many times (if not more) as she was during the early weeks. I find that I can take a lot, but living on insufficient sleep plays with my mind more than anything else.
I have found that I am often impatient with Will when he is just being a normal two year old. But it seems he has a knack for being noisy just when I have gotten her to sleep. Or he seems to be dragging his feet about doing something when Emma is starting to fuss and needs my attention. I am not a yeller, but I have found myself snapping at him or speaking far more sternly than I ever would have before. I have also learned the fine art of apologizing to my toddler when I realize that I have made a mistake and asked too much or given too little.
I read someplace recently that you can start teaching a toddler to wait for something (while you do something else) but that you can't expect them to wait patiently more minutes than they are in years. And I am often asking Will to wait for something and then trying to sneak an extra task in, and that's when we run into a lot of trouble. That's clearly my fault.
Okay, so what is working? In addition to Triage Parenting, I also have to coin a new phrase: Relay Parenting or Pass the Kid. It seems as if from the time M gets home until the kids are in bed, we are constantly handing them off. We have settled into somewhat of a bedtime routine for both kids, which exhausts me to even think about let alone write down, but here goes (times approximate).
7:00 PM: Take Emma up for her tubby while M plays with Will or watches t.v. with him.
7:30 PM: Pass Emma to M and take Will up for his tubby while M gives Emma her nightly bottle.
8:00 PM: Pass Will to M so that he can do teeth brushing, lights out, and rock rock.
8:30 PM: M and I share the job of holding a now sleeping Emma until after 9. No matter what we have tried, she just will not go down before 9, but once 9 hits, she's okay being put down. So every three or four nights we try at around the 8:30 mark, but usually it's just easier to hold her.
The dinner dishes and cleaning up waits until after she is in bed. Fortunately, that's getting closer and closer to 9 and I remember Will's bedtime didn't slide forward for a few months.
Napping is still very hit or miss. Most mornings, she will take a nap in her crib, with little to no crying. But whether that nap is twenty or forty five minutes long is up to the day. The rest of the day, good luck! I either get her to nap in the Ergo, carseat, swing, or on me (which is where she is resting right now).
I have to admit, I feel as if I am running a very long marathon. There are moments when I really wonder how I keep up with them both all day, but it really is true that I am too busy to take note of how tired I am until bedtime comes. I usually fall asleep within minutes of climbing into bed. How long I get to stay there depends on how accomodating Miss Emma is being. Last night, I was in bed at 10:00 and up at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, and 6:00 AM for Emma in addition to being up at 12:30 and 4:00 for Will. You can do the math on how much sleep I got because I don't even want to know.
If this post sounds negative, it really isn't meant to be. I am just giving you the Real Deal on Life With Two. There are moments every single day when I am reminded of how blessed we are. Emma is quite the little flirt now and her smile lights up her whole fact. She is starting to coo and I think we even got a laugh the other day. She is a real spitfire, our little girl, and I am falling more and more in love with her personality every day.
Will might try my patience occasionally, but he is really such a great kid. Really. He is the sweetest brother and gives Emma hugs and kisses all of the time. He calls her by her whole name, though it comes out Emma Drace. When he sees her every morning, he says, "Good morning, Emma Drace." When she cries in the car he says, "Why are you crying, Emma Drace?" And he still calls her My Emma a lot, too, and asks to hold her and feed her a bottle.
Today, I sat on the couch and was rubbing my foot and he asked me what was wrong. I told him that Mommy's foot hurt, and before I knew it, he bent over and placed a gentle kiss on top of my foot. He looked at me with the sweetest face and says, "All better, Mommy?"
Heart. Melts.
One thing that has really helped is that we still have the house cleaners that we started for my birthday. It was just supposed to be through August, but I am telling you, it is worth every single penny. It is a splure, but it is helping me to stay sane. The last thing I need to be doing right now is trying to scrub our bathroom grout.
I have found that I am often impatient with Will when he is just being a normal two year old. But it seems he has a knack for being noisy just when I have gotten her to sleep. Or he seems to be dragging his feet about doing something when Emma is starting to fuss and needs my attention. I am not a yeller, but I have found myself snapping at him or speaking far more sternly than I ever would have before. I have also learned the fine art of apologizing to my toddler when I realize that I have made a mistake and asked too much or given too little.
I read someplace recently that you can start teaching a toddler to wait for something (while you do something else) but that you can't expect them to wait patiently more minutes than they are in years. And I am often asking Will to wait for something and then trying to sneak an extra task in, and that's when we run into a lot of trouble. That's clearly my fault.
Okay, so what is working? In addition to Triage Parenting, I also have to coin a new phrase: Relay Parenting or Pass the Kid. It seems as if from the time M gets home until the kids are in bed, we are constantly handing them off. We have settled into somewhat of a bedtime routine for both kids, which exhausts me to even think about let alone write down, but here goes (times approximate).
7:00 PM: Take Emma up for her tubby while M plays with Will or watches t.v. with him.
7:30 PM: Pass Emma to M and take Will up for his tubby while M gives Emma her nightly bottle.
8:00 PM: Pass Will to M so that he can do teeth brushing, lights out, and rock rock.
8:30 PM: M and I share the job of holding a now sleeping Emma until after 9. No matter what we have tried, she just will not go down before 9, but once 9 hits, she's okay being put down. So every three or four nights we try at around the 8:30 mark, but usually it's just easier to hold her.
The dinner dishes and cleaning up waits until after she is in bed. Fortunately, that's getting closer and closer to 9 and I remember Will's bedtime didn't slide forward for a few months.
Napping is still very hit or miss. Most mornings, she will take a nap in her crib, with little to no crying. But whether that nap is twenty or forty five minutes long is up to the day. The rest of the day, good luck! I either get her to nap in the Ergo, carseat, swing, or on me (which is where she is resting right now).
I have to admit, I feel as if I am running a very long marathon. There are moments when I really wonder how I keep up with them both all day, but it really is true that I am too busy to take note of how tired I am until bedtime comes. I usually fall asleep within minutes of climbing into bed. How long I get to stay there depends on how accomodating Miss Emma is being. Last night, I was in bed at 10:00 and up at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, and 6:00 AM for Emma in addition to being up at 12:30 and 4:00 for Will. You can do the math on how much sleep I got because I don't even want to know.
If this post sounds negative, it really isn't meant to be. I am just giving you the Real Deal on Life With Two. There are moments every single day when I am reminded of how blessed we are. Emma is quite the little flirt now and her smile lights up her whole fact. She is starting to coo and I think we even got a laugh the other day. She is a real spitfire, our little girl, and I am falling more and more in love with her personality every day.
Will might try my patience occasionally, but he is really such a great kid. Really. He is the sweetest brother and gives Emma hugs and kisses all of the time. He calls her by her whole name, though it comes out Emma Drace. When he sees her every morning, he says, "Good morning, Emma Drace." When she cries in the car he says, "Why are you crying, Emma Drace?" And he still calls her My Emma a lot, too, and asks to hold her and feed her a bottle.
Today, I sat on the couch and was rubbing my foot and he asked me what was wrong. I told him that Mommy's foot hurt, and before I knew it, he bent over and placed a gentle kiss on top of my foot. He looked at me with the sweetest face and says, "All better, Mommy?"
Heart. Melts.
One thing that has really helped is that we still have the house cleaners that we started for my birthday. It was just supposed to be through August, but I am telling you, it is worth every single penny. It is a splure, but it is helping me to stay sane. The last thing I need to be doing right now is trying to scrub our bathroom grout.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Yeastie Beastie
No, I am not going to disclose TMI in this post. Well, unless you consider the fact that my daughter's mouth had more yeast in it than a bakery to be TMI?
I am writing this post because I truly believe that yeast infections in a baby are far more serious than your average pediatrician will lead you to believe. Now, I love our pediatrician to bits and pieces (even if she is way too cute!), but when she said that Emma's oral yeast infection shouldn't cause her to be fussy, I have to respectfully disagree.
Her fussy period was two weeks long and it was horrendous. It was an all-day-long-affair that would cause me to want to tear my hair out. I couldn't figure out what had changed my "easy" (sorry, but she was!) baby into a baby that reminded me of her brother at that age (not "easy" at all). In fact, she was worse than her brother, with the exception that she did sleep through the night. Then she stopped doing that! And when she stopped STTN, I freaked. I freaked BIG.
I started playing with The Evil Dr. Google. And I found that thrush does hurt babies! And it does make them fussy! Apparently, it also makes it very painful to breastfeed, so nursing babies will avoid nursing, or will nurse halfheartedly (she was so doing this!), and then become fussy.
So, I started pumping after she would feed and offering her a bottle of the pumped milk (it isn't as painful for a baby to take a bottle because they don't have to suck as hard). And what do you know? She stopped being as fussy. I also started treating myself for the yeast infection, even though I wasn't having a lot of symptoms, I read that a nursing mom and baby can continually pass the infection back and forth, even if one is not showing symptoms.
I talked to my OB, looking for their advice on treating yeast on nipples. My OB's nurse was a family practice nurse for many years and recommended a soft wash cloth to wash out the baby's mouth before applying the medication. I tried this and it seemed to help the white patches in Emma's mouth (but if you have this issue, please remember to wipe very gently, as the patches are sore and to use a different cloth or gauze for each side so as not to spread the yeast) and then apply the nystatin. In two days after starting this, the patches cleared up, whereas before, we had been using the medication for ten days and the patches were still very present.
Now, I have my "easy" baby back. She allow me to set her down to get things done during the day, she doesn't seem to fuss nearly as much, and she is back to STTN. I know this is just my baby and an anecdotal event, but I think that if you are dealing with unexplained fussiness, you might want to look into a yeastie beastie!
I am writing this post because I truly believe that yeast infections in a baby are far more serious than your average pediatrician will lead you to believe. Now, I love our pediatrician to bits and pieces (even if she is way too cute!), but when she said that Emma's oral yeast infection shouldn't cause her to be fussy, I have to respectfully disagree.
Her fussy period was two weeks long and it was horrendous. It was an all-day-long-affair that would cause me to want to tear my hair out. I couldn't figure out what had changed my "easy" (sorry, but she was!) baby into a baby that reminded me of her brother at that age (not "easy" at all). In fact, she was worse than her brother, with the exception that she did sleep through the night. Then she stopped doing that! And when she stopped STTN, I freaked. I freaked BIG.
I started playing with The Evil Dr. Google. And I found that thrush does hurt babies! And it does make them fussy! Apparently, it also makes it very painful to breastfeed, so nursing babies will avoid nursing, or will nurse halfheartedly (she was so doing this!), and then become fussy.
So, I started pumping after she would feed and offering her a bottle of the pumped milk (it isn't as painful for a baby to take a bottle because they don't have to suck as hard). And what do you know? She stopped being as fussy. I also started treating myself for the yeast infection, even though I wasn't having a lot of symptoms, I read that a nursing mom and baby can continually pass the infection back and forth, even if one is not showing symptoms.
I talked to my OB, looking for their advice on treating yeast on nipples. My OB's nurse was a family practice nurse for many years and recommended a soft wash cloth to wash out the baby's mouth before applying the medication. I tried this and it seemed to help the white patches in Emma's mouth (but if you have this issue, please remember to wipe very gently, as the patches are sore and to use a different cloth or gauze for each side so as not to spread the yeast) and then apply the nystatin. In two days after starting this, the patches cleared up, whereas before, we had been using the medication for ten days and the patches were still very present.
Now, I have my "easy" baby back. She allow me to set her down to get things done during the day, she doesn't seem to fuss nearly as much, and she is back to STTN. I know this is just my baby and an anecdotal event, but I think that if you are dealing with unexplained fussiness, you might want to look into a yeastie beastie!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Worries and Likes
Stay at home moms. . . what do you worry most about? What do you enjoy the most about being a SAHM?
Work outside the home moms. . . what do you worry most about? What do you enjoy the most about being a WOTHM?
Work outside the home moms. . . what do you worry most about? What do you enjoy the most about being a WOTHM?
Friday, October 8, 2010
We're Baaaack
The time with my parents went well. It was nice to have a bit of help with the kiddos and to see Will have such a fun time with his Grandma and Papa. Emma continued to regale us with her fussiness and seems to only really be happy when held. . . by me, specifically.
The first night was rough and little sleep was had by all. But the second and third nights were great! Emma and Will slept through both nights in their respective beds and I got about ten hours of sleep each night.
My mom also delighted in making all of my favorite dishes, we went to Costco (yes, Costco) for gelatto, and even to a rummage sale or two. Will scored a new play kitchen and a bubble machine, as well as some random books. He was very pleased.
It was nice to have a few days away. Here, when both kids are sleeping or I have a few moments where they are both content and occupied, I feel the need to do laundry or prepare dinner. At my parents', there isn't much for me to do but rock my baby and laugh over my 2-year-old's antics. It's a nice change of pace.
But we won't speak of the drive. The three hour drive was awful (Emma on the way down and Will on the way up). It will be awhile before I recover from that!
The first night was rough and little sleep was had by all. But the second and third nights were great! Emma and Will slept through both nights in their respective beds and I got about ten hours of sleep each night.
My mom also delighted in making all of my favorite dishes, we went to Costco (yes, Costco) for gelatto, and even to a rummage sale or two. Will scored a new play kitchen and a bubble machine, as well as some random books. He was very pleased.
It was nice to have a few days away. Here, when both kids are sleeping or I have a few moments where they are both content and occupied, I feel the need to do laundry or prepare dinner. At my parents', there isn't much for me to do but rock my baby and laugh over my 2-year-old's antics. It's a nice change of pace.
But we won't speak of the drive. The three hour drive was awful (Emma on the way down and Will on the way up). It will be awhile before I recover from that!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Here We Go
There comes a time when you just can't stay home. . . or within 20 miles of your house. In the last month, I have missed my mom, dad, and sister's birthdays. I have been so lazy that I haven't even mailed their gifts (I did call them on their special days). I also desperately want my kids to have a good relationship with my parents.
So, my plans today are to put the kiddos in the car and make the three hour drive south to my parents house. As M is working, I am making this trip alone.
I am currently trying to pack the car, but it's a little difficult, because Emma will not let me put her down (she will, however, allow me to hold her and blog at the same time). Oh, and she has stopped sleeping through the night. I know sleep goes in waves (at least with my babies), but between her constant need to be held and refusal to nap during the day, and her letting me get very little sleep at night, I am going a bit batty. This is what I thought the newborn days would be like and I was prepared for that. This phase coming a bit late in the game has caught me unaware. But it's just a phase. It was pass.
So, wish me luck! I will be back on Thursday or (if it's going really well) Friday.
So, my plans today are to put the kiddos in the car and make the three hour drive south to my parents house. As M is working, I am making this trip alone.
I am currently trying to pack the car, but it's a little difficult, because Emma will not let me put her down (she will, however, allow me to hold her and blog at the same time). Oh, and she has stopped sleeping through the night. I know sleep goes in waves (at least with my babies), but between her constant need to be held and refusal to nap during the day, and her letting me get very little sleep at night, I am going a bit batty. This is what I thought the newborn days would be like and I was prepared for that. This phase coming a bit late in the game has caught me unaware. But it's just a phase. It was pass.
So, wish me luck! I will be back on Thursday or (if it's going really well) Friday.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Fussbudget
She's 11 weeks old. And for the past two weeks, she's been fussing like it's her job. Well, it is her job, but still. Her nonstop fussing is starting to make me a bit batty. I literally cannot set her down for a moment.
Late-onset colic? Early teething? Reflux? Milk protein sensitivity? General fussiness? Growth spurt?
All of these things have crossed my mind. She fusses non-stop throughout the day and must be held almost all of the time (upright, against my shoulder, standing, not sitting) and will only nap when held this specific way or nursing. She refuses to go down until 9:30 most nights, but then redeems her daytime behavior with a solid, good sleep that goes until 7 or 8. So. . .
I guess I probably shouldn't complain, but it's hard to be the only source of comfort during the day with a busy toddler also needing my attention. When she cries, she stiffens and seems in pain. She seems better after a good burp or messy diaper. I sometimes wonder if she might have reflux. She does spit up a lot. But then she sleeps like a champ at night, after feed.
So. . . . again. Your thoughts?
Late-onset colic? Early teething? Reflux? Milk protein sensitivity? General fussiness? Growth spurt?
All of these things have crossed my mind. She fusses non-stop throughout the day and must be held almost all of the time (upright, against my shoulder, standing, not sitting) and will only nap when held this specific way or nursing. She refuses to go down until 9:30 most nights, but then redeems her daytime behavior with a solid, good sleep that goes until 7 or 8. So. . .
I guess I probably shouldn't complain, but it's hard to be the only source of comfort during the day with a busy toddler also needing my attention. When she cries, she stiffens and seems in pain. She seems better after a good burp or messy diaper. I sometimes wonder if she might have reflux. She does spit up a lot. But then she sleeps like a champ at night, after feed.
So. . . . again. Your thoughts?
Friday, October 1, 2010
The Two Month Appointment
Emma is 10 weeks, but we just had her two month appointment yesterday. That's always strange to me, that the months and weeks are off. Oh, and her pediatrician didn't have any appointments last week, so we were also another week off due to that.
Anyway, the appointment. Emma is growing like a weed. She is smack in the middle of percentiles for weight and height and her growth curve looks perfect. Her noggin is a little above average, which our pediatrician likes to say means her little brain is growing well. I just think my kiddos have big heads, but it's nice of her to put it so politely!
Everything looks great. Dr. S commented on her head control (I guess it's really good) and her really "open" ear canals (random). She did have a yeast infection in her diaper area (common) and some oral thrush (also super common), so we had to start meds for that. Fortunately, I haven't had any issues with my nipples feeling infected, but I still get to paint on the oral meds on the girls just as a precaution and we have to boil bottle nipples and binkies. Fortunately, she doesn't use a lot of either, so it's not a lot of work.
Emma got three of the four required vaccinations, they were out of the fourth, so we'll have to go back for that. She screamed like a banshee and only Da Boob would calm her. She was pretty sleepy right after that, but by the afternoon, oh MY. She was not pleased with life and cried nonstop for a few hours. She did have a fever from the vaccinations and I don't think she felt well. Finally, I just took her to bed with me and let her nurse until she was quiet and content. We got her down by 8:30 last night, which is the earliest she has been to bed. But I can't complain about our little girl's sleep. She routinely is sleeping through the night now, from 9:30 PM - 8:00 AM. Before you hate me too much, I will add that she does not take any naps without being held. Even her swing won't do. It's the Ergo or my arms or possibly the car if she's in a giving mood, but she is a picky napper. I have gotten her to take a few naps here and there in the crib, but it's the exception, not the rule. Even when she does sleep, she is a total cat napper. Dr. S explained that it's probably because she is getting so much restorative sleep at night and doesn't need the naps as much.
She congratulated us on a good sleeper, but reminded me that it can all change at about fourth months. Ah, the dreaded sleep regression. I already was well-aware of this, thanks to Will's antics at that age, but she also said that some babies just lock into a good sleep pattern and stick with it. We'll see. She has already exceeded all of my sleep expectations, and I know I can handle the regression if it comes.
I was feeling a bit guilty that we were still at a 2 - 3 hour feeding schedule, rather than a 3 - 4 hour one, but Dr. S reminded me that because she is not getting any feedings a night, we are having to put all of her daily requirements during the day. She said that I have to keep in mind that most young infants are still getting at least one feed per night at this age, so it's okay that she is still eating so often during the day. That was nice to hear and made me feel better.
Young infant. That means that I don't really have a newborn anymore. I guess they are technically newborns until 12 weeks, but we are at the 11 week mark tomorrow. She is too big for most newborn outfits now and I have noticed even a few of the 0 - 3 outfits getting a big snug. This causes such a myriad of feelings in me, it's hard to put it into words. I was dreading this newborn phase (in terms of logistics with a toddler and lack of sleep) and it has literally flown by. I do think I have enjoyed Emma's newborn phase far more than Will's. I have been so much more relaxed and less anxious. I definitely have to credit her sleeping so well so that I can sleep. Honestly, I know I am pretty fortunate. How many people with a 2 month old and a 2 year old can say that they are sleeping through the night? Not too many.
She's healthy, we're sleeping. Life is pretty good.
Anyway, the appointment. Emma is growing like a weed. She is smack in the middle of percentiles for weight and height and her growth curve looks perfect. Her noggin is a little above average, which our pediatrician likes to say means her little brain is growing well. I just think my kiddos have big heads, but it's nice of her to put it so politely!
Everything looks great. Dr. S commented on her head control (I guess it's really good) and her really "open" ear canals (random). She did have a yeast infection in her diaper area (common) and some oral thrush (also super common), so we had to start meds for that. Fortunately, I haven't had any issues with my nipples feeling infected, but I still get to paint on the oral meds on the girls just as a precaution and we have to boil bottle nipples and binkies. Fortunately, she doesn't use a lot of either, so it's not a lot of work.
Emma got three of the four required vaccinations, they were out of the fourth, so we'll have to go back for that. She screamed like a banshee and only Da Boob would calm her. She was pretty sleepy right after that, but by the afternoon, oh MY. She was not pleased with life and cried nonstop for a few hours. She did have a fever from the vaccinations and I don't think she felt well. Finally, I just took her to bed with me and let her nurse until she was quiet and content. We got her down by 8:30 last night, which is the earliest she has been to bed. But I can't complain about our little girl's sleep. She routinely is sleeping through the night now, from 9:30 PM - 8:00 AM. Before you hate me too much, I will add that she does not take any naps without being held. Even her swing won't do. It's the Ergo or my arms or possibly the car if she's in a giving mood, but she is a picky napper. I have gotten her to take a few naps here and there in the crib, but it's the exception, not the rule. Even when she does sleep, she is a total cat napper. Dr. S explained that it's probably because she is getting so much restorative sleep at night and doesn't need the naps as much.
She congratulated us on a good sleeper, but reminded me that it can all change at about fourth months. Ah, the dreaded sleep regression. I already was well-aware of this, thanks to Will's antics at that age, but she also said that some babies just lock into a good sleep pattern and stick with it. We'll see. She has already exceeded all of my sleep expectations, and I know I can handle the regression if it comes.
I was feeling a bit guilty that we were still at a 2 - 3 hour feeding schedule, rather than a 3 - 4 hour one, but Dr. S reminded me that because she is not getting any feedings a night, we are having to put all of her daily requirements during the day. She said that I have to keep in mind that most young infants are still getting at least one feed per night at this age, so it's okay that she is still eating so often during the day. That was nice to hear and made me feel better.
Young infant. That means that I don't really have a newborn anymore. I guess they are technically newborns until 12 weeks, but we are at the 11 week mark tomorrow. She is too big for most newborn outfits now and I have noticed even a few of the 0 - 3 outfits getting a big snug. This causes such a myriad of feelings in me, it's hard to put it into words. I was dreading this newborn phase (in terms of logistics with a toddler and lack of sleep) and it has literally flown by. I do think I have enjoyed Emma's newborn phase far more than Will's. I have been so much more relaxed and less anxious. I definitely have to credit her sleeping so well so that I can sleep. Honestly, I know I am pretty fortunate. How many people with a 2 month old and a 2 year old can say that they are sleeping through the night? Not too many.
She's healthy, we're sleeping. Life is pretty good.
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