Babies born ~ September 16-30th 2010 #3

fuzzy - wow go Chloe!! That is amazing she is sitting herself up like that!

Chuckie - jeez I don't know how you and Belfie manage with all the food restrictions. Is it working so far?

Belfie - oh no it's just one thing after the other for you. Really hope things improve soon for your DH. Glad to hear Annika is sleeping well, loving your pics too.

Buzzie - good luck with the house, and wedding talk is pretty exciting!

I've been a bit quiet here too, very busy sewing and trying to figure out how I am going to sell these things.
Isaac is doing well, I tried him with a teaspoon of rice cereal with ebm yesterday. I think he found the texture a bit weird, a couple of times he just opened his mouth so it dribbled out but he ended up swallowing some. He had the biggest poosplosion last night though, I think it was because of the cereal. I'm thinking I might just give him a little bit every second day this week, then every day from next week until 6 months then start pureed food.
Talking to a couple of other mums the other day I mentioned that I still rock Isaac to sleep and they seemed a bit shocked. I didn't realise it was a bad thing. I love cuddling him to sleep, well almost to sleep then I put him in the hammock then bounce him. Why is it not good to rock a baby to sleep? I love it and don't want to stop. I know he'll get too big eventually but I'll never get these days back when he is small enough to be able to do it. There's so much I have to learn about what to say to other mums I guess.

Gotta go, Isaac is asleep (worn out from swimming!) so lots to do. Mum is coming over today to help out so I might use the opportunity to get out and weed the front garden (inspired by Dory :)) while she watches him.

Hope everyone has a fantastic week, and big hugs for your bubs :)

Chuckie - how are you going with your restricted diet? Has Pearl been in less pain and or sleeping better? Chin up. You're doing a great job.

Buzzie - hope you get the house you want too - 5 bedrooms is a LOT to fill. LOL.

Fuzzy - wow - Chloe is amazing! That is amazing... we're still just getting the hang, sometimes of sitting up by ourselves here.

Belfie - keep going strong... 10kg is really not much to lose, you'll achieve your goal in no time at all.

Wite - How's little Harlow?

Bec - ah don't let my madness inspire you....

I think, and I am not really sure about this, but I think, that the "sleep experts" say that babies should be learning to fall asleep themselves without rocking etc, so that if they wake after 1 or 2 sleep cycles that they can then self settle. I also would say for some, getting baby to go to sleep on their own, makes it easier for the family routine, especially if there are other children. I haven't heard that it does them harm though. I think we all need to find our own way, and do what works for us. Possibly mums who are more experienced than the first timers will have something to say about it. But from what you've said, you're not actually rocking him to sleep, but into a calm settled state? Anyway if it becomes a problem later on, you can go to a sleep school and you and Isaac can learn a different way. I nurse and rock Hannah if she's not settling herself or she's got wind pains, but if she doesn't, we have a little routine that sees me putting her to bed awake and she falls asleep. Though sometimes I leave it too long and she falls asleep on the breast, then wakes up as I put her down.

Well done on trying rice cereal.... and a bit funny about poo-nami. It's normal I gather when you change their diet for their bowel habit to change. But there's not harm either in drawing it out, that's what I did and no harm done from what I can see.

Wite - Cat is all good, just a repeat blood test in 6-12 months. Seems the antibiotics did the trick. Yay. And the other good news? All clear on my tests for the funny tingling/burning sensations. I still get them, but absolutely nothing came out of the very extensive testing, so it's just something I will have to live with. But great news it's not cancer or MS. Though I do have moderate carpal tunnel and it will only get worse. When I can't bear it any more I'll get some surgery to release it.

AFM - we're on to our 3rd day of rice cereal here. Going well. I made some purees today - potato, pumpkin and pear. Will make some apple and sweet potato and some other veges after I go shopping. We're back from our 5 day trip. Hannah and I left Thursday around lunch time and went to stay with my mum til Saturday morning. It was ok, except both my mum and I got food poisoning. Either from the white chocolate mudcake or the ham - which we both ate at the same time. We both came down with it at the same time, about 7 hours after we ate the suspect items, and it wasn't a virus, as we were both a lot better after a few hours, not great, but it didn't feel like a virus. DH caught the train up Friday night and then Saturday morning we drove to his mums ( another 2 1/2 hours) for a surprise birthday party. We then left DH's mums and drove to my mums, stayed overnight and then another 2 hours back home. It just broke up the trip to stop, and H didn't travel well at all on the leg from his mums's to mine.

It was really nice to catch up with the fam and to show Hannah off. She loved DH's family, except for his eldest sister,who I don't much like either ( so at least she has good taste). She cried with my mum on Thursday and a little on Friday, but that's because my mum accidentally frightened her by blowing a massively loud raspberry. But she was good on Sunday and Monday with my mum. It's been nice to be home, but wierd as it's so quiet. The cats have been all over me like a rash wanting pats. So cute.

So that's a big round up for my last 5 days. Thinking of you all.

Dory- So glad your tests came back clear! Oh, I had carpal tunnel in jett's pregnancy-it was horrid,you poor thing having it:( And you poor things having food poisoning, esepcially when u were on your holiday visit too...I'd blame the ham..surely chocolate couldn't EVER cause food poisoning ;)

Bec- I can't wait to make an order from you, I tell everyone I know about them-even my mum!!!!

Fuzzy- GO CHLOE!! Wow! that is so fantastic that she sits up by herself now, she will be crawling in no time now she knows what to do with those legs!

Buzzie- Fingers and toes crossed that you get the place- when will you find out?

Belfie- Your poor Hubby, I hope he will be ok!

No news from us, Harlow had her 4 month imms done yesterday (A month late but she has Jetts cold earlier so culdn't get them done), she went well though has a bit of a temp today so I've just given her some panadol.
I have been so crazy busy with my FB page (show us ya cupcakes), I didn't think something could be so time consuming but editing photos and putting them into albums takes longer than I thought! Had jetts party on the weekend, It was great except for a bit of a spat I had at my brother in law...Jetts great went great, but was so time consuming!!!

Very quickly...

Bec, I dont think there is anything 'wrong' with rocking him to sleep. I guess the main concern is just that he is used to that now and needs it to fall asleep - as he gets older and bigger he will still need that, but he may be too big for you to be able to do it - that's the theory anyway. Also, they say that if he doesn't know how to settle himself to sleep, when he wakes up in the night, he wont know how put himself back to sleep, and he will cry out for you (because he needs you to rock him) - Hence meaning he wont learn to sleep through the night.

I dont think you should have to censor yourself around other mothers. You should say what you think and stick by it, because at the end of the day, as long as you are comfortable with what you are doing, and Isaac is happy - then people are entitled to their opinions, but you dont have to listen to them. I am happy to tell people what we do, and if they dont agree - I couldnt care less. I am happy to hear what others do, because I may learn something or get some ideas, but otherwise, I do what I feel is best. So far, it's working really well!

I will be back to do persies and an update, I've been very slack - trying to get our house built so we can move in.

Dory - lol I didn't get out in the garden in the end. Yeah I can understand people with more kids not wanting to spend time rocking their bub, they'd be too busy. Isaac has been waking after one sleep cycle lately, but usually I can bounce him back to sleep pretty quickly as I see the hammock move as soon as he stirs (it's in the lounge room and in my sight from wherever I am). Hope you're feeling better from the food poisoning, and great to hear you got away for a few days.

Wite - thanks! I love your fb page, such a fun idea. I'm going to give those burger cakes a go one day!

Connie - thanks, I'm finding other mums can be very judgemental. I'm thinking it's just easier to not say anything, but it's in my nature to say what I think and usually regret it when I'm made to feel as if I'm doing it all wrong. I know it's not wrong but just different. I just need to stop caring so much about peoples opinions.

It's a bit hard to tell but I don't think he really needs the rocking to fall asleep as I only do it during the day. I think it's just an instinctive thing, he looks tired, so I pick him up cuddle him, rock him for a while, settle him so he is all calm then put him in the hammock and bounce him while I keep him focussed on me with constant eye contact otherwise he gets distracted and fidgety. Doing that just feels natural to me - it just didn't occur to me to do it any differently. Although during the night I don't do it. He doesn't sleep through the night, but he doesn't wake up properly either if that makes sense, just enough to let me know he wants some milk, I roll onto my side for him then we both fall asleep after a couple of minutes. He is still sleeping in my bed so he doesn't need to cry out for me anyway so that's good.

Bec - Isaac is lucky to have you as his Mummy.... do what feels right for you both. I am secretly glad you didn't get into the garden...LOL.

It's hard not to care about what other people think at times, well it is for me, and it probably is more so if they are very judgemental. But that doesn't mean I change what I do, it just means I censor myself. But I am learning to censor less and ask more questions about what people are saying. Just because they say it, doesn't mean I have to do it or even agree with it.

Connie - keep up the good work with the house... hopefully you can move in soon?

I am off for a coffee date with a friend today, but just sent a txt to put it back 30 mins - I would prefer if H gt a little more sleep in her first nap of the day.

Hi ladies,

Bec - Like Connie I think people say you shouldn't rock bubs to sleep because you will be doing it forever (My sis did til her youngest was 4!) But I disagree I reckon it doesn't take that long to change a sleep habit (you just have to stick to your guns) so do what you want (it's not them doing to rocking) but don't stop talking about what works for you because its how we all learn. Personally I save rocking for desperate times so I have a tactic for when Pearl is REALLY upset.

Connie - when do you move in? We are still waiting on the architect to get back to us with the plans (getting a bit impatient!) Any tips for us?
You should put some pics on FB.

Wite - your FB page is HUGE - so many likers - obviously a great (and popular) idea.

Buzzie - have you and Rob ever lived together before? It's always interesting when you first move in with someone - but it would be even more interesting moving in with someone and your 2 kids. Sounds like you are having some great times together as a family which is great - glad he seems to have come to his senses FX you get the house!

Dory - sounds like HB Is coming along well with solids and you have really been getting out and about - remember the days when you were worried about those sort of trips - now you sound like an old hand! The purees are super easy to make and it is really handy to just have them in the freezer.


Belfie - no surprises that you have no time for persies - am surprised you have time to log on at all - Can't believe DH has done his back AGAIN - what a bugger!! Sounds like you aregetting used to flying solo though so when he does get back on top of his health things will seem so easy for you. You are doing a great job. Re recipes I thought you might be able to recommend a website or something.

AFM - Still struggling with sleep here - I haven't been able to catch up with my LC in the last couple of days so am yet to get updated advice - as DH said this morning "I don't think you could eat anything less" Ha ha! Had a bit of a moment yesterday - was dog tired and went to the occasional care place to ask about care - they offer about 2.75hrs care a fortnight - and was standing there talking to the woman about how I am just so tired and I burst into tears!! Was pretty embarrassing! I feel alright today (despite being up at least every hour again) because DH took one look at me at lunch time yest and said he would go to work late so I could sleep in - amazing what one hour of extra sleep does for you! I am starting to feel a bit helpless because the diet just does not seem to be working and I was sure it would. Sunday night P slept really well - only up at 11, 2:30, 4:30 and about 6:30 - so I know she can do it but have no idea how to get her to do it consistantly I feel like I have tried all the sleep techniques but I know it is diet related so they are useless - will feel better when I speak to the LC again (she has been busy this week). Anyway we are due at baby group today and P is still asleep (almost an hour which is great for her!) There is no way I am waking her.

Chuckie - :hug::hug: so sorry about the sleep. Re the recipes, I dont' really use any websites but i do a LOT of substitution. I have a few of teh recipe books by Sue Shepherd which cover fructose malabsorption and gluten free diets, but I find they're not so great for egg, nut & dairy free. I've also recently heard of one called Friendly Foods put out by the RPA - google it. Dunno if it would be good for your restrictions or not? I'd say I probably search for recipes for my particular ingredients most of all.

AFM, well the reality of DH's back is sinking in, he's sprained a facet joint, so no lifting or bending at present. He's pretty confident it won't be for 6 weeks this time tho (heaven forbid!). Anyway little Miss Anni is 6mths old now, amazing! I think i'd like time to slow down a bit now!! Lol.

Hope everyone is going well.

Chuckie - hugs sweetie! You are doing the most amazing job.... it you are doing it tough. Give that rascal Pearl a big hug for me... it will get better for you. Much better at those solo trips now.... I think I am just a nervous nelly is all. Have been making purees the past couple of days. Had a Dory moment though - cut up some zuchini to steam and realised I'd left the skin on. DOH. That's now for our dinner. I'll peel another one today and make it up. After that I'll be making carrot, brocoli, sweet potato. I am on a roll. I am loving my wein meister tray. Could do with another one the way I am going, but things will settle down soon.

Belfie - OMG Anni is so cute... love the new pic. Hope DH is on the mend soon.

Bec - you OK? You haven't posted as much lately.. don't worry too much about other people sweetie, there will always be people who bring you down and be negative. They are just small minded and you can rise above it.

Seeya

Oh Chuckie sleep deprivation is just the worst thing. Isaac went through a period like that, and omg I was in tears so easily all the time, it was awful. Thankfully he's past that now, only waking 2-3 times a night either for a feed or from belly pains. I really hope the change in diet starts to work for you soon, and that you and Pearl get a chance for some sleep.

Belfie - happy 6 months Annika!

Dory - thanks Dory, all is ok here. Just not posting much as most of the time I don't feel like I have anything to add but I've been reading. Trying to have some computer free days though. Love the new pic, so gorgeous :)

Isaac's crying I'll be back.

Dory- I LOVE my Wein Meister tray too!! Shoudln't we put Zucchini skin in baby food? I did for Jett & also for Harlow...oops!! I'm going to order myself another wein meister tray because they are such great portion sizes and so easy and so solid!

No Zucchini skin? I haven't heard that... George has been eating Zucchini with the skin for over 2 months now.

P.s. George is down to 3 bottles a day. He kept fighting me when I was giving him 4 and I couldnt work out why, now I do - he was ready to drop one. He still drinks 6-700mls a day, just in fewer bottles. I thought it may be a bit early to drop one, but the paed said if he is fighting it, and is still getting enough milk with 3 bottles (and is happy), there is no issue. Considering he is now 10kg, he's not too concerned.

Wite - hmm no science behind the zuchini skin thing - it's just I peel the apple and potato and pear, so why not everything else? But this is for first tastes of food. We only just started here and am just about to introduce other foods apart from rice cereal.

Connie - Yay for George being so healthy, 10 kgs and 3 bottles, he has put on just over 7kgs since his birth. That is super. GL with your house too BTW.

Dory - For first tastes I was doing the same, now that he is more comfortable with food, I am leaving skins on and just scrubbing the fruit really well. The skins are meant to hold heaps of the nutrients. Obviously still peeling potato, pumpkin, sweet potato etc. But for now, I think you're doing the right.

He's doing really well, the paed said no one would ever believe that he was a prem!

The house is coming along slowly. This is what happens when you dont employ a builder and you do it all yourself. Tiles are going down this week, kitchen and electrical are happening next week. The plan is to move in late April, Early May - DH is turning 30 on the 7th of May, so it would be good to be in there by then.

I dont know if I ever said how the Christening went? George was SO good! I could believe it. He got dunked and let out a little cry, but as soon as they took him out of the water, he was fine. :) That helped me relax heaps because I was pretty anxious in the lead up. We had lunch afterwards at a restaurant, and then some friends came back to our place. It ended up being a long day, but it was great. George lasted with a 20 minute catnap the whole day. He went to sleep at about 8pm, after a few tears due to being overtired.

My sister-in-law is pregnant with twins after TTC for 7 years and 14 rounds of IVF. She is now 28 weeks and her OB has said he cervix has worn down to 2cm... so she is now in hospital being monitored, basically until she has the bubs. I am going to go visit her today and keep her company - 5 days in the hospital and I went loopy, i have no idea how she is coping.

Sorry, that was a bit all over the place! Haha Just a few things to update... and I cant believe I hadnt told you guys about my SIL before now.

Dory & Wite - I'll have to look up this wein meister tray, sounds great. I haven't started pureeing food yet but when I do I was thinking of freezing it in an ice cube tray then putting the cubes into a container. Not much room in my tiny freezer though.

Connie - Phew 10kg! well done George!

I haven't given Isaac any more rice cereal since that first try on Monday, I was going to give him some every second day this week then every day from next week but he's not showing signs that he's ready. He is going over 3 hours between feeds during the day still, and is contented.

Connie - WOW - i forgot to ask about the christening with all our excitement here with illness and travelling. Go George!

OMG and your SIL... oh dear sweet blossom - 7 years and finally two at once. That is just awesome. 2cm is not such a good cervix length but twins put so much extra pressure on everything. Hossy is the best place for her. I know it wiil be hard for her though. There's a great web site on supporting people who are on bed rest, Basically it's about making it as much like home as possible, including bringing in normal food if the hossy will let you, Keeping their spirits high by visiting, calling. Making sure they have things to do... you can only watch so much TV or DVD's. So a project is a good thing. If the hossy lets you getting her a lap top with wireless internet would be good too. I know it sounds lame but having a routine also helps the time pass more quickly, and it doesn't seem to drag as much. Maybe you can arrange for a hairdresser to visit her to make her feel glam? Or do her colour for her? or a beauty therapist to do her brows and give a pedicure and manicure? Or maybe she can organise any photos she hasn't ever gotten around to, or make up an announcment list for the birth? Also maybe take in junk mail catalouges and she can see baby items on sale and either buy them on line or someone can get them and then bring them to the hossy. Anywya, just a few ideas.... oh and if she's drinking real coffee.. a take away cup of coffee every so often. It really lifts the spirits. Oh does anyone have an electronic photo frame? it could be loaded up and then she's got a vareity of photos to make her feel better.

Expect her to get angry and annoyed - she's frustrated at being kept in the hossy and as much as she wants the pregnancy and the twins, she will sometimes doubt whether she does and then she'll feel guilty and angry. it's such a hard time.

But also after she comes home she'll need even more help, cause twins are hard work, but even more so after bedrest!

I imagine she has lots of family to keep her company?

OMG, I am just so excited for her.

BEC - we posted at the same time. wein meister is the product name and company name. if you google it. they are like ice cube trays but have a lid, are a bit bigger and are made of silicon ( anti scratch, anti bacterial, non stick). and you can take them out of the tray and put the frozen bits into another container. I am using resealable freezer bags. one for each food and then another one to keep them all in, just in case. Wite got me on to them :) I chose blue but not sure what colour to get next.... I could do with another one. They accept direct deposit and send them on pretty fast.

Connie - Twins for your SIL after 7 years of TTC! That is just so fabulous. Dory has given some great ideas for passing the time in hossie. George is such a little trooper! Well a big trooper I guess - 10kg! What a good eater

Bec - your business looks like it is going great guns! I still need to get a pram snuggle thing. Just been putting it off as it kind of seems like a weird thing to buy in our scorching weather haha. But I will get one!

Hi everybody else! Hope you are doing well.

I have been falling apart here. Got tremors, the need to eat before I pass out, really tired but cant sleep, keep losing weight no matter how much I eat (which is a rediculous amount). Down 5 kg on pre-pregnancy weight now. 56 kg is a way too little for me given I am 173 cm tall. So I had a blood test and yep it turns out I have hyperthryoidism. So I have to go on medication I think. Is it Wite that struggles with this too? Any advice on meds to use when breastfeeding? Natural remedies? I am a bit anxious about taking meds with Chloe breastfeeding to say the least.

Oh and the CHN told me she thought i am not feeding Chloe enough and this is causing her waking 2-3 times a night when really at this age they should only be waking once. If that. I have only ever fed Chloe off one side. But apparently she needs both sides at this age? So that means I have been only feeding her half as much as she should be getting! I feel like a terrible mum but then I look at Chloe and she is such a little chub (will give Annika a run for her money :)) I think surely she is getting enough?

Anyway thats enough from me

Connie I missed your post before. George's christening sounds fantastic. And congrats to your SIL, wow twins after trying for so long. I hope she doesn't go too batty in hospital, and wishing her all the best.

Dory - thanks, the trays look pretty cool :)

fuzzy - thanks, it's going well so far. I'm thinking about going to a babies and children market in Adelaide in the next few months (when it's cold, best weather to buy a blanket!) to see how that goes but the thought of travelling there with all the stuff and a baby and no car is a bit daunting.
Jeez you poor thing I hope you feel better soon, and I hope the medication is ok for breastfeeding, it sounds like you really need something.
As for the waking 2-3 times a night, it is normal!! The MCHN here told me that babies over 6 months shouldn't wake at all during the night, but that is complete rubbish. Every baby is different, and some babies just need milk during the night. When I was worried about how many times Isaac woke I posted a thread in the breastfeeding section here and after reading all the responses of people with babies who wake I was so comforted in knowing that it's so normal for some babies and I'm not the only one with a waking baby. Feeling pressured by people to have a 'sleeping through the night baby' causes more stress than the actual sleeping patterns do. Oh and of course Chloe is getting enough milk, she would be letting you know otherwise!!

Thanks Bec. I cant imagine that she is not getting enough food. Her legs get stuck in her bumbo!

There is one of those baby markets on here in Perth this weekend. Tomorrow actually so I will go and check it out.

Fuzzy - oh sweetie - hope things get better for you soon. At least you have a cause now and can work with it. Not much consolation I know. I agree with Bec about feeding and sleeping. I have always fed H on both sides, but that's because initially my supply wasn't flash and now it's because she takes it. Spose that means supply is still low or H likes foremilk? Anyway, hugs, it's tough to get the shakes, always feel hungry and not sleep, but have to look after a wee one.

H's legs get stuck in the bumbo too and I just PML with the mental image of Chloe's getting stuck too.

lol on the bumbo! We always have to prise Annika out of it - we just pick her & bumbo up together then try squish it off :rofl:
I'm so excited, her first tooth is through! Just a little rough edge at present, but wow - and we've had no "teethy unhappiness" thus far either. hope that continues tehehehe.

Fuzzy - so sorry to hear about the thyroid probs. Hope you feel better on the meds. There's a great drug info line here in Vic which you can ring to find out what meds are safe in breastfeeding - the guy is SO helpful (based at one of our big hossie's): Rodney Whyte at the Monash Medical Centre drug information line (03)9594 2361

Belfie - YAY on getting a tooth without any problems.... H is getting some I think as she's generally just more irritable lately, rubbing her ears like mad and really gnawing on things. This sgae is just so cute.. she's learnt to make a "la la' sort of sound and is currently singing to herself as she goes to sleep ( fx crossed on the sleep part).

How is DH going? I thought of him as I've had vertigo again the past couple of days. How is Xander's allergy testing results?

AFM - just back from breakkie with H, DH and my cousin. H was a delight, and sat up with us in her bright green bumbo and had a ball. Even took some "solids" with us and fed her while we were waiting for our food. Breakfast is the time I chose for solids, until we bump it up to 2 a day, so I took it with us to keep up the routine. H was a bit apprehensive or maybe just distracted at first, but soon warmed up to eating. So cute the way she opens her mouth and leans forward for it. Guess it means she was ready?

Belfie - yay for teeth!

Dory - how cute Hannah ate with you while you were out. Sounds like she likes it!

I think I might start Isaac on a bit of rice cereal every afternoon. He's only had it once so far, last Monday and I didn't continue with it as he wasn't really showing ready signs, but last night he fed every two hours and has been really fussy feeding today. I don't want to though, but I think he might be ready now. I need to read about baby led solids too for when he starts vegies and fruit.

Dory - such a cute little pic of H in your signature!! Sounds like she is definately ready for solids.

Belfie - thanks for the info. I see the doc tomorrow morning so will wait to hear what she says (she has a young bub too). But if I am wary I will call that number afterwards.

Bec - I know what you mean about wanting to keep them just on the breast! So good for them and soooo much easier haha. It took Chloe a couple of weeks of just tiny meals and then 2 weeks of twice a day small meals. As of today we started her on three meals and she is eating HEAPS. I mean for brekky she had baby rice cereal with banana and pear (puree) and she ate about 3/4 of a cup!! Wish it meant she would sleep better

Connie - how do you know how much they should be eating? Do you remember how George progressed? I am not sure when to stop feeding her, so at the moment I am stopping when she gets all fidgety in her bumbo and trys to get out

Feeling ok today. Super tired as we had a wedding last night and got home at 11 then Chloe woke at 12 - 3 - 5:30 - 7. Early night tonight

To be honest I didn't really know how much to give him. I tried not to overdo it at the start so that he was still drinking plenty of milk. Even now, if I see that one day he hasnt had enough milk, I limit his food a little the next day so that he is still drinking his milk.

I let him be the guide. When he started to lose interest by turning away, not opening his mouth anymore, or putting his hands in his mouth, I would stop. It was all a bit of trial and error. Apparently there is no minimum amount of how much they should be having, and at the same time the maximum is when they don't want anymore - I would never force him.

I would continue with what you are doing... if she is getting fidety and trying to get out, she is losing interest and thats ok at this early point. Its ok to stop... she doesnt HAVE to have massive meals.

So now George is only on 3 bottles a day, below is his new food schedule.

7am - 200ml bottle
8am - Cereal with fruit (3/4 cup)
12pm - Lunch - Vegies (3/4 cup) and Yoghurt (1/4 cup)
3pm - 200ml bottle
5pm - Dinner - Vegies & Meat (3/4 cup) and Jelly or Fruit (1/4 cup)
6:15-6:30pm - 200ml bottle

Fuzzy- You poor thing, I totally feel for you having hyperthyroidism, That is what I have (Overactive). Did the Dr put you on Neo-Mercazole? If so, I am almost certain that is fine to take in pregnancy (From memory the Endo at Monash Hospital told me when I was taking it in pregnancy that it was fine to continue taking after baby was born and that was after he asked if I planned on BFing). I don't know much about natural therapies/medications for it but this is something I am currently looking at because I am SO OVER IT!!! I had blood tests last weekend to get mine checked aswell, I also had tremors, I get panic attacks and anxiety which gives me gastro, I get hot & sweaty..but unfortunatly, I am one of those rare cases in Australia who GAINS weight not loses it drastically (Which although losing drastic weight isn't a good thing, I'd sure love to drop my 18kilo gain right now!!). If you have any questions, I'm here to answer what I can:)

Wite - oh blossom, I hear you on the weight loss.... the endo I saw recently said to me " you have the weight accumulation gene"... haha. it sure did accumulate!

Connie - George is a trooper! How many sleeps is he having now and for how long during the day? I can usually get 2 x 90 mins from Hannah, sometimes 2 hours for one her sleeps. She refuses to go to sleep after about 3pm ish.

Fuzzy - I agree with Connie. Initially I was only feeding Hannah the smallest amount, but now I am guided by her. If she's not interested then that's it. She shows it by fussing, fidgetting, looking away, not opening her mouth. For us hands in the mouth can still mean she's interested.

Bec - any more trips to the park? DH and I went for a walk in between the rain showers yesterday and got almost home and Hannah started to cry, which is unusual, so I picked her up. Bugger, should have let DH pick her up...we were further from home than I thought. Ah well, more exercise for me.

AFU ( As for us) - Hannah had her 6 month check today. She's going great guns. 8.25kg, 70.5cm long, and oh, I can't remember what her HC is. 45 or 55cm? Paed was really happy with her and said her tongue tie has mostly resolved. I also asked about flu shots. He said unless there is an epidemic, like there was for swine flu, it's not usually recommended for 6 month olds to have the flu shot. Bugger, didn't ask about when they should start them though. Oh well. I can look that up.

Oh wow, Hannah is doing so well - 8.25kg!!!

As for sleeps, on a normal day he sleeps:
Wakes at 7am
Nap 9-11am
Nap 1-3pm
Nap 4:30-5pm
Bedtime 6:30/6:45pm.

So in total that's about 4.5 hours of day sleep and 12.5 hours at night - I know, I am very lucky. My routining at the start has paid off!

He is pretty much on 2 hours awake/2 hours asleep throughout the day. Just later in the afternoon he gets tired so he has a little nap before dinner - I know he'll drop that eventually.

Connie - that's awesome! But remember, you had a lot of worry in the beginning when little George decided to arrive 7 weeks early.. so it's good now that he's sleeping well at night, and during the day. Hannah is pretty similar, though she's waking a bit more the last couple of nights. But still that just means 4am and then 6am. At 4am she is such a happy little bunny, and usually goes back to sleep quickly, after a feed and a sing to herself. Its so cute listening to her chatter and sing to herself and then almost instantly it goes quiet.

Oh yeah, we definitely went through heaps at the start - prematurity (breathing & feeding issues), hernia, infection, and silent reflux. I guess it all balances itself out.

Hahaha that is so cute. I love when they talk to themselves!

Thanks for food advice Connie. I am a little worried she is having too much food and not enough milk so I am going back to the 2 meals a day and not worry how much she eats. I would rather her have more milk now until at least 8 months of age. What a little spunk in your signature!

Wite - thanks. I have to see an endocrinologist. My levels were WAY high, i.e. something-or-rather supposed to be less than 100 and mine were 570 :o... The doc thinks I have Graves disease :( poo

Chloe has a new sound today 'huh' kind of sounds like 'hi'. And she can wave now too! So cute. Still trys to eat her books when we read to her. 6 months today!!

Fuzzy - so sorry to hear the doc thinks Graves... my sis has that. Happy half-b'day to Chloe, that's so cute a new noise on her b'day. I think i have hte opposite problem need to give Annika more solids.

Connie - you did go through a lot, i'm so glad he's going well now - a well-earned reward I reckon. You've done such a good job.

Dory - your little HB sounds like such a cutie, maybe she'll be musical?

As those on FB saw, Annika has 2 teeth now, I'm amazed. I know X didn't get his till later than this. My hips are playing up at the moment, a bit of the problems I had when I was PG are coming back :( I'm so bummed about it. I really wanna lose some weight but instead I'm now worried about managing everything while DH's back is still bad (way worse than mine). arrrgh. I was chatting to my family daycarer on thurs cos the redundancy has been confirmed, but DH's vertigo has also come back a bit... and she said well i've got a place, you could put Annika in for a day to give you a break/some time to get stuff done. I had a minor (ok major) freakout at the thought... I mean... she's so little! But then we talked about it all weekend and we've decided we'll take the place. She won't start till after easter. It's a massive decision for me as I'd never planned to put her in care before 1yo... much less the day I got made redundant! But the last 6 months have been pretty hellish with DH being sick all the time, and we don't have much back-up with my mum interstate and his mum can't lift the kids - so can't help out much either.

So I've gotta get her onto a sippy cup now... and I'm still having freakout moments about it, but I think it's the right thing for us right now. DH and I really need to try look after our health and we're so under the pump all the time, it makes it tough. Not to mention all the bloody cooking I'm doing at present. Anyway, I asked the daycarer how they go with separation anxiety at this age... and she said who's anxiety - hers or yours. hahaha. Anyway, I haven't told many folks this, but wanted to share with you guys. I don't know whether it's the decision or just everything, but I'm feeling pretty flat today. Just sick of DH or me having something physically going wrong. See you guys say I'm supermum which is so sweet but I so don't feel like it. I'm just too busy and too frazzled and I should be doing my online grocery shopping now cos I was too sore to do it in person :(.

Belfie - It's totally ok to have some flat days, especially with everything you have going on - who could blame you?? I feel its best to just ride out the low days and hope that the next day will be better. Every morning is a fresh start.
You are a supermum. You think I have been through a lot? Geez, you have been through sooo much. Annika and Xander are happy and healthy and you're still standing, that to me equals a supermum!
A day in childcare will be good for her, and for you. Give yourself a break. I am so sorry to hear about the redundancy, that sucks.

Let us know how you go with the sippy cup. I'd love some tips. George is so uncoordinated, he can grab his bottle and put it in his mouth, but he doesnt understand to tip it up, and as he relaxes, he pushes the bottle out.

fuzzy - I did the same. I had him on 3 meals a day, then I wasn't comfortable with his milk intake so I cut it back to 2 meals for a while. I also continued to give him his milk first all the time. When you first start solids, you do feel like you spend the whole day feeding them, but when you eventually drop a milk feed, it's not so bad.

Belfie - you are a supermum! Chloe starts on April 13th and I know exactly how you feel. I feel sad and terrified and guilty.. But I am trying to focus on the positives - she loves to play with other kids and it will be good for her learning to share, socialise etc. Sorry about the redundancy. Does it mean you get a severance pay though? Take care of yourself chickie.

Sippy cup - We use the 'MagMag' one with the funny white teat (i think its the 4-8 mth teet). We tried heaps of different bottles and this was the one Chloe used best and didnt refuse outright. She doesnt need to suck on it rather she kind of bites on it and milk comes out. I really recommend it. Its not too expensive either - about $14 or so


Bec - can I order 2 x zebra print snuggles? I have a friends baby shower coming up in April and it would be a perfect gift for her!

xx

Fuzzy - wow that is super high. I hope it's not graves.... and hugs for the guilt and sadness and being terrified. I cant say I know how it feels yet... but Chloe will be super. She is just going great guns. And happy 6 months to Chloe!

Belfie - oh sweetie - sorry about the redundancy. I think you're doing the right thing by putting Annika in care for a day. It's only a day, and it might just give you the space you need to get your body on track again. Super hero's have down days too you know.... it's only naturual. I am with Connie, you're still a supermum and superwoman to me. Here is the place to come and vent if you need though!

Hannah is 6 months today! Yay! Our MG is going out, mums only, on Friday night to celebrate the milestone. TBH, I am not that interested in going out, but I might surprise myself and go. A few of us went to Baby's Books and Rhymes today at the local library and had a coffee after. It was nice. It was also nice in a big group to have a group who knew each other. I am going to walk down to the one at our local library one day... when I am not so busy.

Happy 6 months Hannah bear!!

happy 6 mths HB!

Fuzzy - yup I do get a package, so that's nice at least. Where are you starting Chloe? It's funny I guess having put X into care I didn't expect to be freaked out the second time round... just when I thought I knew it all harhar! Annika will be starting the 28th April. I think I'm feeling better about it now.

DH's vertigo is definitely worsening so he's going back on meds. My hip is much better thank goodness. And thank you all for the support, it really helps a lot. I'm not feeling as flat today, but just really more resigned to the fact that we need to keep dealing with our lot I guess. Plus when you read things like the BA's today (for thsoe who haven't read - an angel was born sleeping)... well it puts everything perspective doesn't it. I gave my "girl with a curl" some extra cuddles today - we're all so lucky to have our healthy little cuddly bundles.

Happy 6 months to the half birthday girls! Hannah Bear, Chloe and Annika if I haven't already said that :)

Belfie - it must be so hard to put Annika into care, but it will give you a much deserved break. I wish I had that sometimes. I read the BA on here today after seeing all the cheeseburgers on facebook.. it is so sad. I started reading then picked up Isaac and gave him the biggest hug while I cried reading the rest of it. It makes me realise my problems are pretty insignificant compared to others, just tragic and sad.

fuzzy - I don't know what Graves disease but I hope you don't have it.

awesome, thanks I'll put 2 zebra snuggles aside for you when they are made, just let me know which colour you want for the outside (black, pink or red). Might be a couple of weeks is that ok? Just waiting on the fabric.

I have to be quick as I have leftover curry on the stove top. Mum took Isaac to get weighed today (I stayed home as I needed some time on my own). He has only put on 200g in 3 weeks, more proof to me he is ready for solids so I'm going to continue giving rice cereal once a day for now, and in a week or two start on vegie. I was going to go to a friends for lunch but that was cancelled so had a bit of a sewing marathon. Not much else going on.

Hey everyone, just thought i would see if everyone was ok about me doing this list. I did one for DSs group and we all loved seeing whos bday was coming up next. It may be a little premature but i had a quiet day so thought i would do it now plus it takes us a month or two now to get to the next thread lol, that and i CANT wait for bellas first bday, cos we are planning a big party with all our family members meeting for the first time in our NEW home!.. so anyways in that moment of excitment.. i thought i would do this and post it at the front of each thread like we did bellybuddies due date....plus a nutcase like me needs reminders all the time lol :lol:
My god 6 months have flown!!


September 2011 Babies 1st Birthday List!!! :birthday2:

6/8/10 George (CoNNiE_Melb)
7/9/10 Avangaline Catherine (CatherineL)
8/9/10 Samuel Andrew (Kirsten74)
9/9/10 Pearl Iliana (Chuckie)
15/9/10 Blake Matthew (Deana)
17/9/10 Isla Jennifer (Apes23)
17/9/10 Annika Shaelin (Belfie)
20/9/10 Penelope Rose (Angie83)
21/9/10 Chloe Grace (Fuzzy)
22/9/10 Hannah (Dory)
23/9/10 Charlotte Alyson (PanthaLily)
29/9/10 Isabella Grace (Buzzie)
4/10/10 Harlow Jean (Wite-Wickah)
6/10/10 Isaac Elias (bec293)


Im reading everyones posts all the time, hope everyones well.
Im having some 'girlie' issues atm and being had a huge past with PCOS and endometriosis I decided to do something about the pains again today and im off for xrays next weekend but my gp thinks it sounds like my endo is back and may have to discuss surgery again, but fingers crossed not cos i just cant afford it and dont want the recovery again with kids this time! so tough being female sometimes! and expensive!!

Take care everyone :) xx

Awesome, thanks for doing the list Buzzie!

Just a question about poo.. Isaac started solids on Sunday, and hasn't done a poo yet. This is normal for him, he can go a week sometimes but I thought eating food should change that. He has had only one tablespoon of rice cereal mixed with EBM each time, and today is day 4. Would he be constipated or is this normal? I was kind of expecting some poosplosions after starting on food.