Babies Born~ May 16th-31st 2009 #2

Hey all! I am loving your pics on facebook. What a beautiful bunch of babies. Love that everyone's catching some smiles too, they're so cute!! Krystie I particularly loved your shower pic. I haven't tried to take Ivy in the shower with me yet. I'm scared she'd get too slippery and I'd lose my grip! I also thought she might freak out with the water splashing on her head and in her eyes, but then we were forced to walk through the rain the other day and she just seemed really alert and surprised, but not concerned.

Bella I totally agree with you about this group. I tried the group associated with when Ivy was born too and it was fine... just not as good as this one! I'm thinking of getting a membership too. Not sure if I can afford to go platinum but really feel I should support the site. It's been amazing and I rely on it so much for all the little questions and concerns that crop up. AND for the great company!

Jacinta, i got AF last week too. Was so dissapointed as I thought I might get away with a few more months without it, but as soon as Ivy missed a couple of night feeds, there she was. Grrrrrr! When I realised, DH heard me swear really loud from the bathroom. He was so confused! At least I know I'm not pregnant! A week or 2 ago I had a few days of nasty nausea (with no other sick symptoms) and at one stage I thought "oh nooooooo... what if I'm pg"??!!! Oh I do look forward to the next one but sooo not ready yet!

Oh no... bubba waking.... quick typing!!!
About the possible (but very tricky) Vic meet-up.... Nicky you'd be coming in from the Calder - that's kinda north-west isn't it?? BG what road do you come into town on?

I'm guessing if it's going to work, we're going to have to make it close to the city so everyone can come in on the major arterials. I hate trying to negotiate the CBD - the traffic freaks me out. But maybe just outside the city?? Would be llooooverly to have a big mumma and bubbas picnic in the botanic gardens but we might be risking it with the weather. Guess we could always leave it to springtime and then have a 'plan b'.

Uh oh... DH's attempts to soothe the hungry monster are failing. "Fffeeeeeeed mmeeeeeeee!!!!"

Kat - i come in on the Monash Fwy from out past narre warren and stuff. i could probably head out to the other side of the city cos the traffic isn't too bad i guess. i have family in altona and friends out that way as well, so if needed i could probably crash a night at one of their houses so that E isn't in the car too long. she's not a bad traveller, but we've not done more than 2 hours (and that was with a couple of breaks) in a day so i don't know how she'd go doing the city and back in a day kwim?

she was such a good girl last night - we slept for 8 hours and i woke up soooo engorged i got DH to put her in bed with me so i could feed her - she had a little drink but refused to wake up for over an hour more. i'm still getting her to drain me! lol

gotta go - daddy isn't cutting it here either - someone wants a nappy changed and the change table is covered in folding. oops!

Bella - I too had wondered what the D in DH etc stood for, but had never asked! You learn something everyday.

Kat - Bummer about AF, no sign here - do you really only need to miss a couple of night feeds? I think maybe I would rather CJ continues doing 9 to 3am and then doing a feed than get AF back.

Anyone know how the mini-pill might affect AF?

Krystie - Amy - I also have some lovely haemorrhoids and I didn't even have a vaginal birth, apparently carrying a big baby around also can lead to them (I have had them in the past too so I suspect that contributed). The doc gave me the name of some stuff from the pharmacy which seems to be helping and taking Naturfibre everyday.

Naomi - The plan was to get a Maclaren Quest Sport when CJ hit three months - as is nice and light and narrow for the trams. Now not sure she is only 4 weeks off three months and pretty big - would it be bad for her to go in one now? It has 4 recline positions just does not go flat. Bella - I had a look at the baby jogger city one - looks great but not sure want a three wheeler and is a bit heavier than I want - the maclaren is only 5.5kg.

We went to footy last night - CJ was great slept all the way there on tram and for until half way through third quarter, when I went down to parents room changed and fed her - there is a TV in there so could follow the game (too cold to get boob out in stands) and then she watched the 4th - cried everytime Pies scored and loved the Hawks song. As long as we can still use a sling when she is in her brace will be going again to see Geelong vs Hawks next week.

Hi to everyone else - did anyone here anything more from Mrs BB - she used to post a fair bit in the due date thread?

Vic - I have just started putting Bailey in the seat part of our pram (last sunday being the first time) - it comes with a basinett attachment and a seat attachment so I can interchange, and the seat doesn't fully recline either. But I am using the basinett if we go out at night so Bailey can sleep, but during the day I have found he gets grumpy and much prefers to sit up as is then happily amused as can see whats going on around him - so he was 12 weeks and 5.1 kg when I started sitting him in the pram. Mind you I had to stick a little soft cushion behind him to support/surround him as in truth he is still a bit small for it. But he loves it and it works for us. How much does CJ weigh - she will probably be fine to go in the pram, even if she is a little small - perhaps try a little cushion or blanket behind her to help position her if needed? Its certainly not bad for her to go in it (not IMO anyhoo). I saw your pics of CJ at the footy - what a little Hawks girl, just too cute!! I am on the mini pill and AF returned at 7 weeks (hadn't missed any night feeds at that point, was still feeding 3 hrly at night)

Bella and Kat - I agree, I would be lost without our group, especially being home by myself so much more than I am used too - sure Bailey is here, but he is yet to respond to my questions/chats other than with coo's or giggles!! I also went into the group of Baileys birth date but it just wasn't the same. I guess we have all built such a bond through our pregnancies it was crazy not to continue it, I look forward to us discussing all our first birthdays, supporting each other as we go back to work, and through toddlerhood etc :)

Ooooh and Mrs BB (Brooke) is on facebook and I see her updates and photo's - looks like her and Talan are doing great

AFU - we enjoyed catching up with DHs brother and wife last night, they met Bailey for the first time and some family bridges were definately mended which felt great. I think that as Sean and I are now parents we can really understand them on a different level and even found that we have some of the same frustrations with the Parents-In-Law so it was actually good to have others understand those issues. Bailey was a great ice breaker (who can resist a cute baby) and DH was quite emotional driving home as he's been wanting to put these issue behind them for a long time and finally some real progress has been made. Now we just need to work hard to maintain the new found bonds.

Most of you have probably seen this - but I LOVE this photo - its just so precious, I am going to enlarge and frame it
Naomi Graetz's Photos | Facebook

Naomi
x

Jamie rolled from his tummy to his back today yay!!!!!!
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Wholly bageebers Jacinta! Rolling already!!!! ARRGGH!!! He's a man on teh go that's for sure. I have told Allira there will be no rolling, crawling or walking until at least the age of 12 months. I want her to stay a baby forever, but she's growing too quickly!!!!!

Hi everyone!
Just a quick pop in. Been out all day. DS had his first ever swimming lesson today! He did alright... he's not too sure about the deep water just yet, but he did crack a smile by the end of the lesson, so there's promise. I am going to get Allira into swimming lessons at 6 months to try and avoid the fear of pools thing.

Kat - Yep North west, but I'm happy to go along the monash for a distance. I've done that plenty of times before. I'm not too sure about any of the roads off the monash, but I'm sure I could work something out. CBD will have me freaking out, unless I could train it down and walk a short distance somewhere. Other than that... I have no idea! haha.

I better go... organise the boy some dinner and send him to bed and Allira will be due for ome milky goodness anytime from now.
Will pop back tomorrow!

xxoo

Bridg: Wow @ the chuck. Phoebe had one of those one night while I was trying to settle her off to sleep. Didn't come out the nose, but there was SO much of it and we were both soaked. Gross! Glad your gyno is pleased with your recovery. Thanks for the info on the thrush.
BG: Hope E's all better in the tum now.
Nicky: Hope you're enjoying your karting weekend! By the sounds of things you are no goose for not having dtd yet... Seems it is pretty slow going for most of us. After I posted my questions I managed to get P off to sleep before 10, so DH and I tried for the first time. It went well, though I was soooo tired! Dunno when I'll feel up to it again, LOL! As for more kids, DH is already talking about when he can get the snip, PMSL! I told him they will want us to wait til P is 12 months old before they'll do it.
Vic: All the best for the appt tomorrow morning. I hope you can go for the less restrictive harness - I'd be interested to know what it looks like as I have only ever seen the one type. As for strollers, we have a Phil & Teds Dash but probably wouldn't have gotten one if we didn't need the toddler seat attachment. It is good and narrow and steers like an absolute dream compared to our last one (Bertini Shuttle). I love Mountain Buggies (they didn't have toddler seat but they did have skate board).
Naomi: I can't handle the crying interruption when DTD. It happened with Natty once or twice and boy, talk about mood killer, LOL! LOVE the pic of your boys! So glad to hear things are getting better between your DH and his brother too. I am sure that means a lot. Families can be so bloody stressful.

I am really struggling to finish this post - have to go to bed but will BBL with more persies... I can't keep up! xx

Agh, I put her down and she woke up. I could've sworn she was ready...

Jacinta: Its so weird hearing about these tall babies who are going into 00's and 0's... Phoebe is really short but she's getting a very cute squidgy belly on her.
Krystie: Nah, P's never had a bottle... I am far too lazy! Same here with DTD - I am not worried about discomfort as much as just finding a time when we're alone and not so bloody tired! I don't think its possible to find such a time at this point.
Krystie & Vic:Sorry about the roids. I thought I had one but dr tells me its a fissure. At first the only symptom was a little blood but now it really stings. I am sure my tummy troubles are hormonal - I am trying so hard with my diet and keeping up the fluids, but my tummy is just all over the place and unpredictable. Aparently roid creams don't really work so I need to have salt baths and hope that it heals up soon. Such a drag.
Kat: Bummer about AF returning so soon, but at least the pg scare was cleared up! I have friends who had three babies close together because they kept conceiving before her cycle started again, LOL. I love my babies, but that's got to be my worst nightmare ;)

Well, after reading your suggestions about thrush, I have looked around P's mouth and it would seem that's what it is. She has paler whitish cheeks and roof of the mouth and the white stuff on her tongue wouldn't scrape off. I guess I'll get that stuff then. Surprised I don't have it on my nipples though.
I think we are finally getting settled for the night at last. What does your baby wear to bed and what materials do you wrap in?
P wears a wondersuit and is wrapped in a muslin wrap and a fleece. I ask because I'm aware that wrapping in a fleece blanket is a SIDS risk, but I'm positive she'd be cold without it! What do others do/think?

Naomi- No more power chucks luckily. Glad to hear it went well with Sean?s brother. I love that pic of Sean and Bailey. It is definitely a framer.

Bella- I ordered my platinum today, so just waiting for the payment to clear.
Krystie- Logan is not a chucker either, so Im not sure why he chucked so much. Jake & Zac had severe reflux, so Logan not spewing is a dream! Yay for Kyson sleeping half the night in his cot. I know what u mean about missing them when they aren?t sleeping in ur arms.

Kat- That?s so cute about Ivy in the rain!

BG- Lucky u for getting 8 hrs sleep. I only dream of the time I can sleep for that long.

Vic- Good to hear CJ behaved herself at the footy. I have a friend who is a Hawks fan. Good luck with finding a pram. By the end of it, u will probably be confused. I hope all goes as well as it possibly can tomorrow for CJ?s appointment.

Jacinta- Jamie is so clever rolling over! Maybe he might be an early crawler and walker too?

Nicky- Glad to hear DS enjoyed his swimming lesson.

Amy- Sorry to hear Phoebe has thrush. They normally recommend to treat u as well as Phoebe. The chemist will be able to tell u whats best. Logan normally wears a Wondersuit or cotton suit and then he has a light blanket and a crochet blanket on him. Our room is normally about 21degrees. I have also put him in a sleeping bag with the arms before, and all I put on him then is his singlet, otherwise he gets too hot. I also find that the Wondersuit tops and bottoms are warm as well. The Bonds leggings are really warm too.

AFU, I put Logan down at midnight, but he woke again about half an hour later. We went to the nursery today to work out what plant we are buying, and also picked a pot. I also found that since Logan has been having Gripe Water for his wind, that his thrush has almost cleared up. Did anyone see the Baby Elmo stuff in the Target catalogue?

Also, how do I put the link thing up for my Face Book??

Happy Birthday Nicky!!

:happybirthday: :happybirthday: :happybirthday:

Hi All,

Snacks- J isn't really wrapped at all cos she sleeps in bed with us and i think it is warm enough cos the dooner covers her although i am also aware that that is a sids risk.... how do you other girls do the co-sleeping without using your own bedding? As for the thrush I agree with bridg and think u should treat yourself as well. your thrush may be present but asymptomatic but you will be both cross infecting each other if you don't do both.

Naomi- glad to hear that your hubby and his bro turned a new leaf. I have very complex family relationships and know the stress it causes to not be getting on well, so I'm really pleased for you!

Vic- our pram is great but your right it is heavy and it is wide. goodluck with your appt.

Bridg- i have to look thru that calander cos i love baby elmo!!!!

AFM- sorry not alot of persies:( Jemima is doing well. I am fighting off a cold amidst her feeding frensy and so am tired. She has been really cooing and starting to babble the last week and a half and it's soo cute!!! Shes letting me put her down for longer stretches and being content. Can I ask how everyone else is coping with their post baby body image? I am struggling with mine:( I lost alot of weight first up but that was all fluid and now it has stopped... I am 8kg heavier than pre-preg and i don't like it at all, how is everyone's weight loss going?

Bella

Hmmmm, I think I might be overheating Bailey at night - we put him in a one piece (like a target cotton one) and have an armless quilted sleeping bag, then a tug a blanket over him - I think I can do without the blanket!!

we have E in a sleepsuit of some sort, mittens if it's cold, wrapped ina muslin wrap with a blankie over her when she's in her bed - in ours she is often uncovered other than the wrap cos of my body heat. i judge by her skin on her head as to whether she is overhot - she always seems pretty right on.

gotta go - she's cracking the pooh bears!

Hey there. It's me! Still Kat but minus the 'belleh' so I thought it was time for a change of username. Santosha means contentment - with who you are, what you have, what is happening in your life, etc. It's something I aspire to and something I hope that Ivy will find in her life so I thought it was fitting. Also wanted to make the change before I sign up for platinum - I said the other day that I didn't think I could afford it but looking at the page again, it's life membership I can't afford. Platinum is do-able since we are doing a little better with the finances now that I am in charge!! (Can't remember if I wrote about it at the time, but a few months ago I discovered DH had accrued some serious debt without my knowlege and I confiscated his cards!)

Ivy has been grumpy all day, poor love. I think she's sick - she's very snotty - and she wouldn't let me put her down all morning. Much screaming and wailing ensued if I even tried. But she has at last passed out in her cot so I might get a few mins to say hello and grab some lunch. Going to take her to the doc tomorrow as she has a strange lump behind one ear. It kinda feels like a swollen gland, like you get on your neck or in your armpit when you're sick, but it's an odd place for it, so I thought I'd best get it checked out.

Amy - Ivy's in a sleeping bag when in her cot, and just under the covers with us when she co-sleeps. The sleeping bag is fairly light but she's been getting over-heated with anything more (gets heat-rash on her face) and I understand it's better for them to be slightly too cool than hot. Hope the thrush clears up for you very soon. It's a PITA that you can keep cross-infecting eachother. Fingers crossed you find the solution.

Bella - I'm finding the body-image thing weird. At first the flabby belly really freaked me out. I've always been on the skinny side of things - to the point that I didn't really have hips or boobs and had body-image issues from people calling me 'scrawny' 'anorexic' 'flat' etc. I've never dieted, it's just genetics. We're all tall and lanky in my family. I put on 18 kgs while I was pg and loved being all curvy for the first time in my life, but like I said, the post-baby belly was a bit gross and suddenly my thighs seemed massive compared to the rest of me. But now... I'm still 10kg heavier than I've ever been and after serious consideration (and a fair bit of self-doubt), I've decided to embrace it. No longer am I 'scarecrow woman'... now I am choosing to consider myself feminine and comfortable and I'm considerably warmer than I've been during any winter I care to remember!! All part of my mission for contentedness I guess.
Hun, I'm sure you look beautiful. Women have been given ridiculous standards in the media to compare themselves to. Just look at your average post-baby mummy and I'm guessing you'll find that you measure up just fine. But if you're still feeling a bit yuck... a) give it time, it's only been a few months, b) maybe take yourself for a walk or a swim every few days. Even gentle exercise will have an impact on your body and a huge impact on your feeling of wellbeing, and c) get DH to take bubba, get yourself dressed up to the nines and go out with a girlfriend. Even if it's only down to the shops for coffee for an hour or 2. I've frocked up twice for weddings recently and was pleased to find that once I climbed out of my trakkies and put on some make-up for the first time in weeks, I didn't scrub up too badly!! Hope that helps. Hugs to you.

Nicky - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! :birthday2:Hope you have a wonderful day and get spoilt rotten.

Now, I'm getting very determined to try and organise something for a meet-up, but am worried I won't be able to find a time and place that suits the majority. Lets start with dates and work from there... I'm thinking if we wait a bit then bubbas will be older and happier to travel, weather will be better and hopefully schedules will be clear.

How would the first weekend in September suit people? I think it's Saturday the 5th? Or if that doesn't suit, what about the 12th (weekend after)? Thoughts Vic girls??????

Off to grab some lunch (woohoo bubba's still sleeping) but will try to come back later.

Well the brace is on. CJ is quite distressed everytime she tries to kick her legs because she can not understand - so I am going to be spending alot of time feeding and cuddling today as I am now so apologies for lack of persies will catch up when have hands free.

It is not too bad though, nappy changing is a bit more fiddly, sling will be ok, she still just fits in car seat and stretchy wondersuits still fit. It did not cost anything apart from the car park fee which was a bonus.

Will put a photo on facebook later - but if interested here is link to type of harness Kids health info for parents

septembers bad for us :( coz we have to save to go to my mums birthday party
vic- my little cousin had one of those and it was taken off at about 4 months she sort of sat funny when i met her but it only just got taken off shes normal now walking like and 18 month old

first weekend of sept is fathers day so might be a bit hard for people - i wouldn't be able to make it cos DH will be home (he doesn't know it yet, but there is no way in hell he's missing his first fathers day!)

i would say late sept or maybe early oct might work better. not sure where to go - but i'm not keen on the CBD esp if i'm travelling solo. sept is also school hols isn't it so a lot of places will be a bit ordinary...

true BG and it will be getting a bit warmer 2

Hi all popping in quickly.
Thanks for the birthday wishes. I've been very spoilt and the kids have been really good so far today.

Vic big hugs. I hope things improve really wuickly from here and CJ is out of the harness sooner than expected. Harness or no harness, she is still one of the most adorable little girls I have seen. xxoo much love to you both.

Kat, I'm not too fussed. Whenever you would like a meet up is cool. I should be able to make anytime except maybe one weekend in October (but I'm not quite sure exactly what date that is) as I am organising a school reunion for then. Will let you know though. Don't worry about trying to accomodate places for me... I'll find wherever you guys are. I might bring Hubs as he is calmer driving in Mlebs and I am better with directions than he is.

Ok better go and check on DS... he's sleeping in his big single bed for the first day sleep ever and did a full night in it last night for the first time! He's choice too. I love when he does things like that.

xxoo

Happy birthday, Nicky! Glad it has been a good day :) Woohoo for moving into a big bed - how exciting.
Vic: Wow, that was quick. Glad they were able to do it straight away - sooner it goes on the sooner it can come off. Are you allowed to bath her? I am sure living with it will just become second nature for you both very soon - I hope the adjustment isn't too hard for you and CJ. I agree with Nicky, she is SO adorable.
Kat: Sorry to hear Ivy is sick. Are you using Fess for her nose? I love the stuff - Phoebe was really snotty a couple of weeks ago and it really helped clear the crap out so she could breathe properly. Sorry too about that lump - let us know what the dr says.
Bella: I really struggle with my body atm. It doesn't help that I'm having these tummy and bottom troubles either. My belly is floppy and the stretch marks are still really red. I'm about 10kg heavier than pre-pg, and I was about 10kg overweight then. I am trying very hard not to let it get me down. The good thing is that the girls enjoy a ride in the stroller so we have been getting out for a walk every couple of days. I have noticed that I feel better for it, even though I haven't lost weight. *Hugs* babe. Our bodies have been through a lot recently - we need to try to cut ourselves a break, I suppose.
Bridg: Great tip re the gripe water. Sorry, but I can't stand Elmo, LOL! Didn't see the catalogue. To post a link, just copy the url from the page you want to link to, then on BB click on the button that looks like a globe with a chain link in front of it and then paste the link. Hope that makes sense!

Thanks girls for the thrush advice, I got the stuff today and treated us both tonight - it is bright greeny-yellow - like bile, LOL! P was so unimpressed.
Thanks too for sharing about bed clothes. I think I'm going to get a sleeping bag cause I suspect I'm overdressing her.
Oh, I am so knackered! I wish Phoebe wasn't such a fusspot at night. She is still fidgetting away while I type...

Bella- Im not overly worried about my figure at the moment. At a guess, I would only be a couple of kilos heavier than pre baby.

Kat- Good luck at the Drs. Hopefully the lump isn?t anything serious.

Vic- Sorry to hear CJ is distressed with the brace on. Poor little sweetie. And its hard too, because they don?t understand its for their benefit.

Nicky- WOW! Big boys bed. I remember when Jake and Zac went into their big beds.

Amy- Logan didn?t like the Nilstat either, and it took a long time to get 1ml down his throat.

AFU, We had an ok day. I spent a bit of time at the boys kinder today, and surprisingly, no panic attacks or anxiety. Logan has the MCHN and his hearing test next week, and then its needles. The poor little mite is going to have a busy week. I also have to get Jake and Zacs 4 year old needles done. Logan is almost asleep, so Im going to do a few things before bed, and then hit the hay.

Hi all, posting from bed. Just put jemima down for her first sleep in her bassinet over nite. Will let u know how it goes in the morning

Bella

Kat - I was surprised how much Kyson loves being in the shower. I was terrified at first about how slippery he would be, but as long as I make sure I have a tight grip on an arm or leg at all times, then he feels pretty secure. Also, I wait until the end of the shower before I wash him so that he is only really slippery for a little while before we get out. I'm imagining that Ivy had a very cute surprised look on her face in the rain, hehe.
PS. Love the new username!

Vic - I saw the pics of CJ in her brace on your facebook. Poor little tyke looks a bit upset, but I'm sure she'll get used to it pretty quickly and be back to her happy bubbly self. It's great that you were able to get it all done so quickly because now hopefully she'll be able to get it off sooner :)
Oh, and how cute that she has already gone to a footy game!DH was not too happy with that game. He's a pie supporter and I generally don't follow football, except when Hawks beat the Pies and I remind DH that technically I am a Hawks supporter, LOL! :ROFL:

Naomi - It's so good to hear that things went well between you guys and your BIL and his wife. I'm sure Bailey was a perfect little ice-breaker! Hopefully children and mutual PIL problems will only serve to strengthen the relationship further :)

Jacinta - Oh my! How clever is Jamie rolling over already! You must be so proud, but also a little nervous that he's already getting mobile, lol. I'm worried that Kyson is going to be an early walker like I was. Mum tells me that I was walking at 8 months! That's just crazy. And with Kyson already able to stand up with me just holding his hands, suffice to say I'm getting nervous!

Nicky - I can't wait for swimming lessons! I've always loved the water and I'm hoping that Kyson will continue to love it too. If he does then I'll have more chance of getting DH to go to the beach with us because he's not a fan of the sand or the water, lol. It sounds very promising that your little man left the lesson smiling :)
Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! May all your birthday wishes and dreams be fulfilled!

Amy - Oh honey I feel your pain with the fissure! I've had one before and I couldn't even SIT down. Number 2's very excrutiating!!! I had to get a certain cream to use, but it's side effect was headaches, and I would get a mega headache within seconds of using the cream. Also, I'm sure that it's the type of cream that definitely would not be recommended while breastfeeding. Hopefully all your salt baths help it heal quickly.
At night I have Kyson in a romper suit, and then in a jumpsuit and a sleeping bag. Gosh that sounds like a lot, but he never gets too hot. He also sleeps under a very light blanket to keep him still when he's in his cot, or when he's co-sleepung he's under our blankets a little as well (but usually only up to about his waist because I worry about it going to high and covering his face).

Bridg - I didn't see the Target catalogue, but one of my Uncles gave Kyson an Elmo jumpsuit. It's bright red and fluffy, but doesn't fit him yet. It looks so huge hanging in his wardrobe, but it's a 00 so it probably won't be long before he fits in it.

Bella - You have to remember sweetheart that just over one month ago you had a whole baby inside your tummy! Give yourself time to get back into pre-baby shape and try not to be too hard on yourself. You should ask how your DH feels about your body, because you'll probably be pretty surprised with his answer. I got a little self-conscience the other day about the extra flabby tummy skin I still have and I asked DH if he found it unattractive. His answer was to rub my tummy and tell me he loved it because it used to hold our sweet little boy in there, awwww :)

Also, Amy - You need to be less hard on yourself with your body image too missy! See the comments I made to Bella because they apply to you too :P

BG - How's your little gem going? I hope her tummy has settled down now and that she is feeling much better. You must be getting so excited about the baptism!

Jess - How are your studies going? I still can't work out how on earth you get the time to study with an infant and a toddler, so my hat goes off to you miss!!!

Cathy - I saw the pics of Cara on the playmat and she is so cute. Kyson has the jungle swing version of that playmat. They are so cute!

Photos of CJ in brace

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Cerys McGill's Photos | Facebook

No baths till next ultrasound in four weeks - :-(, changing nappies especially poo ones is quite a challenge! She used to love the change mat and getting her nappy changed, but now is the worst thing I think because this was when she would kick most and play games with me holding her legs straight so couldn't' get wondersuit on - so this is when she "remembers" the brace most.

Last night was difficult, normally CJ will go off to sleep then stir after 20 mins or so but settle herself back off to sleep, last night everytime she stirred she "realised" was in the brace and cried and woke herself up. So at about 1:00am after putting her back to sleep about 5 times brought her into bed with us and she slept till about 4:00 had a feed and then managed to get her to go back to sleep in her cot till 8:30. So I suppose wasn't too bad but I feel shattered don't sleep that well with her in with us as doesn't seem to be enough room and I am perched on edge!

She seems ok this morning but is always happier in the mornings - fingers crossed it continues - the cry is quite different from other ones have heard from her is a real "I am so frustrated cry"

Awwwww Vic, that is heartbreaking that made me tear up a bit, What a tough night for you all. I bet CJ will probably be more resilient than Mum - you might have a few tough days ahead as she gets used to it. I hope things get easier and you have a better night (and day).

We are here to support you - HUGS to a great Mum. I hope the next few weeks FLY by for you and CJ and some well deserved sleep comes your way - take advantage of any naps during the day to recharge you too

Naomi
x

Amy - yeah a baby crying while attempting to DTD is certainly a passion killer LOL. Sleeping bags are the best IMO, once Bailey grows out of the ones he is currently in I am thinking of investing in a gro-bag, they are about $70 though I think so might have to shop around

Bridg - I saw the Elmo stuff too. Being the Sesame Street Fans that we are (Baileys nursery is decorated in a Sesame Street Theme) I was pretty ex, its soooo cute. But as he has sooooooooo many clothes I will restrain myself. I am struggling to get through all of Baileys outfits before he out grows them, most of the stuff we were bought was in 000 so am working my way through the outfits now, I dont want to miss out on using any of them LOL

Bella - when Bailey is in our bed I dont really cover him with out quilt - Last night I had him in just his cotton coverall and his quilted sleeping bag, but realised that he kicks a bit and wakes himself, so I put a thin wrap over the bottom part of the sleeping bag (waist down) and tucked him in - if he stays still he stays asleep. During the day when I put him down for a nap I wrap him in a muslin wrap - he is letting me wrap him again, which is good as he sleeps longer. Is currently down for his morning nap (now been asleep for 2 hours, this nap is normally an hour tops!!). I agree with the other girls - dont be too hard on your self re body image!! I'm doing ok weight wise but when naked I have flabby skin around my middle - like Krystie my DH isn't too fussed so I am pretty confident about it. Give yourself a realistic timeframe to get back to the shape you want - and embrace your Mummy body - its your badge of honour of going through pregnancy and childbirth!!

Kat - love the new name and the meaning behind it - very thoughtful! Hope the lump is nothing to worry about and Ivy feels better soon. Good to hear you have sorted the finances, being on maternity leave certainly throws another challenge into the financial puzzle too doesn't it. I agree re the membership, contributing to the site feels important to me, especially because I use it sooo much and have met some fantastic friends (cant wait to meet you all IRL given the opportunity!). Good advice re the body image - I totally agree women set crazy standards for themselves. I have found that despite being home if I have a shower and even put on a little makeup (usually just lip gloss, mascara) I feel human and better about myself and tend to be more productive as feeling good, whereas the days I 'slum' it in my dressing gown etc I have less energy, its totally a mindset thing I know, but hey it works for me!

Nicky - glad to hear you had a great birthday - you deserve it ! Sounds like Lachie is getting more and more independant every day!! What a legend, I bet that makes life easier for you

BG - I saw the 'sneak preview' of Emeralds photo's on facebook. I love the Black and White. We are still waiting for our professional pics - should have them in the next couple of weeks. I opted for Black and White for most of those too. I cant wait to see the rest of E's

Krystie - Mammoth Post - Nice work!! Great that Kyson loves the shower, we might give Bailey one and see how he goes - he LOVES the bath! I think he needs a little more neck strength before we give him one though. He's still a bit 'behind' on the whole lifting his head, neck etc, but I assume its because he was early and a fair bit of his development/growing was OUTside the womb! He can hold his neck up for 20+ seconds now, but it still seems too heavy for his little body and its a bit floppy still.

I hear the little guy stirring, he'll be gasping for a feed, he's and hour overdue - Hi to Cathy, Catherine, Jess and Jacinta
Naomi
x

Kat - I forgot to mention that Kyson has a little lump on the back of his head/neck near his ear. I read that it's totally normal and common. I read about it in the book "Baby Love" by Robin Barker. I'll write out what is said about it...

"Small, movable lumps behind a baby's ears or on the back of the neck are common and normal. They are enlarged lymph nodes and are not significant unless they are large, tender or warm to touch, in which case see your family doctor".

Hope that's a smidgen helpful :)

Krystie - I have that book, it comes in VERY handy doesn't it!! :)

Hey there lovely mummies. Just a quick one...

Krystie, thanks so much for that info. Sounds like Robyn Barker knows more than my doc does!! She wasn't really sure but said she thought it was 'calcified tissue' and to keep an eye on it. She felt that it was pretty innocuous. It's great to read that this kind of thing is normal.

Vic, hope CJ is adjusting to the brace and you guys are doing ok. Have been thinking of you and your gorgeous girl.

BG, thanks for the feedback on dates. I didn't even consider father's day or school hols. The dates I picked were completely arbitrary really! You're right, best to avoid school holiday crowds and we need to be with daddies for father's day! (Even though my DH says he doesn't care and that father's day is just a marketing ploy... I know he'll enjoy us making a fuss of him!!)

SO... given that several people have said that October doesn't work for them...
How about September 26th?? Either that or it's going to have to wait 'till November.

sept 26 will be afl grand final day - so it's out for us (big do here in town) and a biatch of a time in Melbourne i'm sure!

hehehe - gotta love how dates are such a PITA!

Bridg: re: panic attacks and anxiety at Kinder - you or the boys? Have you had some PND issues? I did last time, but this time fortunately is different. Wow @ 4yo needles - that seems like forever away for Natty, but it is getting closer all the time - they grow up so fast.
Bella: How did J go in the bass?
Krystie: Wow @ Kyson weight bearing already :) What a clever lad. FAR OUT, I think I would die if I had a kid who walked at 8 months, LOL! Natty didn't even crawl until she was 10 months, then didn't walk until she was 14 months.
Yeah, I know I should lay off about my weight issues. I've struggled with self-image most of my life, so old habits and all that.
Vic: Oh, poor CJ (and you) :( I hope last night was a little better. I am sure she'll adjust very soon, but it must be hard for you in the meantime. :hug: Here's hoping the next US shows a vast improvement.
Naomi: I tried Phoebe in a sleeping bag last night and it was fab. $70 is a good price for a gro-bag I think. I have seen them for $80 +. Maybe you can get them cheaper online? Have you tried Bailey in the shower yet? I think holding his head up for 20 seconds is a great effort! I haven't timed Phoebe yet (have been a bit slack on the tummy time! We've only done it a few times - oops!) but I don't know if she'd manage 20 seconds.
Kat: Good to hear the lump is nothing to worry about. I have the Baby Love book too but keep forgetting I've got it, LOL! She really does know her stuff ;)

Well, last night Phoebe spoiled me (after 2 nights of reverting back to feeding 3-hourly again!) and let me sleep from 9:30pm - 2:45am :) Then back into bed around 4 and slept til 7:30. I felt sooooo good this morning (although a little groggy, LOL!). We went to the lake again today with SIL and the cousins and had a ripping time - it was a beautiful day here today. Lovely and warm and sunny.

Naomi- Logan has heaps of clothes too, but they had bibs, socks, hats, a blanket, and some burp cloths. I can never resist buying baby clothes.

Krystie- I might have to get a copy of that book. Where did u get urs from?

Amy- Panic attacks and Anxiety for me. I have always had them. No PND here for me luckily. I think it helps that I have an awesome DH. The boys are a bit late for their 4 year old needles, but I have been told as long as they have them before they go to school, then its fine if they have them late. Yay for Phoebe giving u a good sleep. Its amazing what a good sleep does.

AFU, Well Logan woke up chatting and smiling to himself this morning. Was soooo cute. Jake and Zac have had sore ears the last few days, so they stayed home from Kinder yesterday, and after a good sleep and some rest, they are feeling much better. I feel so sorry for them when they get sore ears. Poor darlings. I have had a great day today. Logans thrush is all gone, and I have done 4 loads of washing, with about 4 more to go. I will take it to the Laundromat tonight, and dry most of it.

Bridg, I'm sorry about the anxiety. How much does it affect you? I had several panic attacks with Natty. My PND mostly presented itself as anxiety, and I was a bit silly and didn't do much about it. This time I was all set up with my Dr and the hospital knowing about last time but fortunately I haven't had any trouble so far.
Have the boys got ear infections? They are horrid aren't they.

I think Bailey might be teething - crazy I know, but DH reckons he can feel his little tooth from birth re-emerging, he is drooling so much that today I put a bib on him, and he has been pulling at his ears (which is nothing new), also last night was having trouble swallowing all his saliva and was coughing it up a bit - its either that or a cold. I dunno!! He's 13 weeks, I s'pose he could be

Wow Naomi :) Which tooth? Is he unhappy or is he ok?

He's been a bit whingy and sooky today - and needing his dummy - which makes me think its teething even more as I think he is biting and sucking on the dummy for relief, yesterday he slept about 18 hours all up (about 5 hours more than normal), and when I put him down for a nap at 530pm cos he was whingy he called it a night and only woke for feeds, today he has had more naps than normal (but shorter ones)

The tooth is one of the bottom middle ones (left) I think

I have my mothers group at the CYH tomorrow (same as eastern states MCHN) so I might ask what they think

Should I be doing something if it is teething - teething gel etc? I have no idea. He seems fussy but not out of control, just more needy

naomi - i know i havent got one yet but other mums recommend amber teething necklaces or if ur afraid of choking they also have bracelets that can be worn as anklets under their socks HTH

afu - we've had a great day not we were on our way to bendigo when my car broke down j was fine he thought it was fun lol didnt get home till 4 oh and to top off a great day the hot water service stuffed up

Jacinta - so what does the anklet do exactly? :)

If he's not dreadfully upset I wouldn't do anything, Naomi. Just lots of cuddles and something to chew on. Natty's teeth didn't give us any trouble when they were coming through, so I'm not really experienced, but I've heard people say that their babies chew on a wet washer... Though that's probably older babies I guess.
Personally, I wouldn't go for teething gels unless bubs was really upset... and even then they often don't work. Not sure about the amber necklaces - I have heard them spoken of around here but I don't know anything about them. Hope he's his happy little self again soon.

Good advice Amy - we are still getting lots of smiles, but his playtime and happy time is much shorter than normal, and when he is napping, as he is not sleeping through to his next feed he wakes up upset - so have had lots of cuddles today