Baby Loves Bubbles

I don't know about you, but the only real way to calm my fussy baby [who is already fed with a clean diaper] is to give her a nice, warm bubble bath. She absolutely loves to kick and splash the water everywhere. If you are stressed out due to all of the fussiness, let your baby play longer in the bath. I tried that today and it was almost relaxing for me as well! She did not fuss or cry or yell or scream or throw a temper tantrum or... you get it. She played with the bubbles, her rubber duck, animal squirt toys, and sucked her soapy hands while kicking water all over! It makes her smile though so it doesn't matter the mess she makes. We had to move her from the sink to the bath tub finally so we could keep some of the water from getting all over the floor. 

After her bath, she gets her regular body massage. [spoiled/mommy's dream] I massage baby lotion all over her arms, legs, belly, and back. If she lets me I gently message her face too. She really enjoys it and it puts her in a good/relaxed mood until she's ready for her nap. Depending on my mood and her level of fussiness, I give her a bath before bed or in the mid afternoon before a nap.

Here are some pictures from bath time at three months old. [She's five months now but I haven't had a chance to get batteries for my camera... Actually I just keep forgetting. It's lame.]

Bright Starts Bounce-A-Bout Activity Center

This is one of Miss A's favorite toys... or should I say "Activity Center"! She loves it because there are so many fun things to look at. The best part about this toy is that there are NO BATTERIES REQUIRED and she still loves it! I hung up another Bright Starts Tug n Pull Musical Pig on it so there's some music for her to listen to. There are seven different toys on it and you can order more off their website. We probably won't order anymore because we have a lot of other toys we clip on to it. There's also a little tray where you can set more toys, pacifiers, or even a sippy cup [filled with water of course ;)] on it.

My mom isn't thrilled with this activity center because she can't walk around the house with it like she wants her to. I like it because it keeps her entertained in one place! She still gets her exercise because she can bounce on it! She hasn't quite mastered the bouncing aspect of it yet but soon! We registered for this for our baby shower and happily received it as a gift! We thought the bouncers would be safer than the baby walkers so she doesn't get into anything she's not supposed to. This would definitely be the better option for those with stairs!

 

 

10 Things I Love About Being a Mommy

It really is the little things that bring the most joy to life.

[In no particular order.]

1. Baby Smiles: My baby can smile when I'm in the worst mood ever and that will be enough to make me smile too. I can be so angry and then she'll laugh at me and suddenly I feel all better, if only for a few minutes. 
2. Baby Milestones: Any new thing my baby learns is enough to celebrate! The first time she reached for her toys... The first time she rolled over... The first time she used a bottle.. The first time she rode in her car seat home from the hospital... The first time in her stroller... The first time she made a noise other than crying... The first time she smiled... laughed... cooed... screeched! The first time she took a bath... The first time she put her own pacifier in her mouth. I can't wait until she crawls, sits up by herself, starts eating solids, and walks by herself! All these firsts make me grab my camera, call my mom and tell her, and write them down in her baby book. Depending on the milestone, it's even enough to grab a glass of wine with Bill after dinner! It's just exciting that she's growing and learning new things. I guess I can't really explain why it's exciting. It just is. 
3. I Get to Be a Kid Again on the Holidays: I am taking my daughter to see Santa Claus this month! How cool! I can't even remember the last time I visited Santa. It's been quite some time...! I get to be the one to make sure Santa enjoys his milk & cookies that we set out! ;) And as long as she's been a good baby, she'll get to open presents from Santa. We will get to visit the Easter Bunny too! And do fun holiday activities like Easter egg hunts and dressing up at Halloween. I still dress up for Halloween but it's going to be fun to share the holiday excitement with our daughter.
4. Snuggle/Cuddle Time: I never knew how cute babies were... I really never realized how precious they are. They are tiny, little baby humans... haha! Think about it. It's crazy that they will grow up into one of us someday! I looove taking naps with my baby. She snuggles her head on my chest and falls asleep... like a little angel! [until she wakes up crying!] Her cheeks are so pudgy and round. It's hard not to wake her by giving her so many kisses! Now she doesn't love cuddling 24/7, but when she starts rubbing her eyes, that's my cue to wrap her in a blanket and rock her in my arms! It warms my heart <3. 
5. Playing Dress Up: I love dressing my baby in cute little outfits. Since I have a girl, I love putting her in dresses and cute floral pants. I was lucky to have a baby born with some hair so we put little headbands, flowers, bows, and ribbons in her hair to doll her up. She's so beautiful! I'm hoping we will have a baby boy next because I just love little boy slacks and flannel or button up long sleeve shirts. I will put a little stylish cap on him. Awww.. I just love baby clothes. The coolest thing is that with babies they will look cute in almost anything you put on them!
6. Showing Her Off: It's so fun bringing my baby everywhere because people are just drawn to babies! I had random strangers coming up to me in stores when I was pregnant and now that I have my baby, they're still coming up to me! I don't mind though. They all point and talk to her in a funny baby voice. "Aww look at the wittle baaaby guwrll". It's great. I feel so proud to be the one that gets to keep her! :D
7. Playing Peek-A-Boo, Supergirl, & The Itsy Bitsy Spider: These are currently my baby's favorite games. We can play peek-a-boo anywhere and everywhere and she'll just have a blast. Same thing for Supergirl... I lift her in the air and she smiles sooo big! Right when I say Supergirl, she starts smiling because she knows what's gonna happen next. Her absolute favorite song is the Itsy Bitsy Spider. I sing this song over and over doing the hand motions because she absolutely loves it. If she's crying... even screaming I can sing this song and she'll stop and listen to it. I know this category is very similar to the Baby Smiles one but this is different because I am the one making her happy. It's comforting that she likes her mommy and that I can entertain her. :D
8. More Extended Family Time: We already keep in touch with our families pretty well. But since babies grow so fast, everyone wants to see her more so they don't miss out on her growing up! That means we all get to see more of our families. Now we already do see our families quite a bit, but let's face it... people are drawn to babies! It puts an increase on the number of visitors! :D No big deal. 
9. Learning a New Way of Life: I am not a different person now that I'm a mother but I am learning how to live differently. I can't do everything the same way that I used to because I have a baby to take care of and to guide growing up. I can't just stay out til midnight whenever I feel like. There are cons of having a baby that interfere with the sudden change in your life but I'm seeing a new perspective of life now. I understand some of the life of a mother. I still have LOTS of learning because I only have a four month old! But I think about how I was when I was a baby and what my mom went through... and all mothers that I know. I understand new things... It's just interesting how I suddenly have a different lifestyle. I have to do a little planning now. That's all. Doesn't mean I can't enjoy my life.
10. WE MADE OUR BABY! : No one else can make the same exact baby we did. She is unique to Bill & I. I'm just bewildered by this still. My baby grew inside of me and came out of thin air! Well, it feels like it anyways! It's just a weird feeling that's kind of neat to think about.

Don't forget to check out the 10 Things I Hate About Pregnancy! :)

Our Nuh Night Bedtime Routine

I never thought a four month old baby could enjoy story time as much as she does. Before Miss A was born, I asked the nurse who came to visit us at home when a good time would be to start reading to a baby. She said from day one! The sooner the better! I was surprised because I found it silly. But she was right. I started reading books to Miss A around the second month and she was fascinated with the them. [or so it seemed!!] Even though she can't understand the story quite yet, she certainly loves looking at the big, bright colored pictures. She always gets excited and kicks her legs before I read to her.

I could be wrong, but I think it is a VERY important activity to spend doing with your children. Reading is so beneficial for learning, bonding, and entertaining. They will discover the lives of many new characters and take on adventures with them. Books will help your children learn how to read and SPELL! The more you read, the better your spelling should be since you see it written over and over again. I thoroughly enjoy reading so I want to give my daughter the opportunity to discover books too. If she doesn't enjoy reading in the long run [which I don't see how that's possible! :/ ] then at least she will get a glimpse of what she'll be learning when school comes and she's forced to read!

For now, we have set a fun bedtime activity of reading some bright picture books. We stretch out on my bed on our backs and I hold the book up above her head and read. I try my best to read in different voices and with enthusiasm so she can enjoy it. :D I also think reading aloud helps your baby develop language too because they are listening to you talk to them. Sometimes Miss A stares at me while I'm reading the book instead of looking at the pages... funny but as long as she's enjoying it, it's allll good!

Bedtime Routine

1. Bottle
2. Change Diaper
3. Pajamas
4. Story Time/ Cuddle Time <3
5. Crib with Winnie the Pooh mobile playing

Multitasking Mommy!

I didn't know how well I could multitask until Miss A was born. I was really good at it before, but now I'm becoming a professional! The coolest part is that I'm still getting better and better everyday. My baby is only four months old so she's not even crawling yet! I can't imagine how my skills will grow once she's crawling/walking and pulling out all my movies and books from their shelves! At first, I was kind of frustrated that all the attention my baby required. I felt like I couldn't do anything besides feed, change dirty diapers, and play with her. That is all a joy but 24/7??? Everyone needs to enjoy ALL of life's wonderful activities! Soooo lately, I've been getting into cooking wonderful meals with new recipes and foods I've never even tried before. Obviously that takes some time. For me, it requires a good couple hours back and forth, around the kitchen. With an infant, that seems almost impossible! But let me tell you, it's not!

We play peek-a-boo over the counter tops, behind pots & pans, with the potholders, with a gallon of milk, etc. We sing songs and dance... well it's mainly me who does the entertaining in between stirring the boiling liquids, checking the food in the oven, and cleaning the huge mess I made! I drag her swing into the kitchen so she can play with toys and swing while I figure out what the heck I'm trying to cook. Once she gets bored with that, I sit her in her high chair with apples using the Munchkin Food Nets. We set books on the high chair, along with her plastic keys, teddy bears, farm animals, even the whole farm! It really is kind of hectic, especially on her fussy days when she doesn't like to cooperate but it's doable! Once she's done being in the high chair, I lay her on her activity play pad and she plays with her rattles, mirrors, and musical animals. She entertains herself and when she gets bored I make funny sounds and talk to her. I mainly narrate everything I'm doing in funny voices and in occasionally break out into song. It's fun and she giggles and coos! Then when daddy walks through the door around 5:30pm, she's all his while I finish place setting the table and pouring milk into our glasses!!

Life is definitely more interesting with a cute wittle tiny fussy pudgy baby bumpkin!

Munchkin Food Nets

I recently bought a Munchkins Food Net for my teething (?) baby. These food nets are amazing! Right now she is only four and a half months, so we haven't really started solid foods yet. I still plan on waiting awhile longer before introducing solids but since she appears to be teething, I've been peeling apples and putting them inside the food nets for her. This way she has a nutritious, soothing toy to chew on. The first time we gave it to her she absolutely loved it. She chewed/sucked on the food net like a popsicle. It's sooo cuute and funny! It really was a lifesaver. After hours of fussing/screaming, this was the only thing that calmed her. I'm almost positive it was soothing her gums. I recommend these to all teething babies, especially if they aren't doing well with solids yet. These nets have a handle that snaps tightly shut, preventing the food chunks from entering the baby's mouth. Later, when we start to give her more solids, I'll put more fruits and vegetables inside. But until she's at least six months, I'm only putting apples in them. :)

Baby Steps also makes their own version of the food net. I haven't tried this one but it serves the same purpose as the Munchkins version.  

I know my baby is the cutest in the world, do you?

Everyday I know I'm the luckiest mom ever because I have the cutest baby in the entire world! Seriously! I'm assuming all moms think this way.. If not, I just don't understand! I genuinely believe I have the cutest baby ever. I know my opinion is biased because I'm the mommy but still. She's a sweet little baby doll. She has such big beautiful blue eyes that are filled with curiosity. She has the perfect little pudgy baby cheeks. Her belly is a cute potbelly, big and round! She has a pretty little voice even when she screeches. Her facial expressions are all so unique, funny, and precious (maybe not the grouchy ones but in their own special way, yes!) She's super cute with clothes and just naked, splashing around in her baby tub. Her face lights up with excitement all the time. She smiles and laughs at everything she sees. Miss A is a wonderful baby and every time I look at her the only thing I see is a pure angel! Of course she can be a little monster at times, but overall I've never seen something as sweet and beautiful as my little baby girl. I don't mean to sound arrogant. I'm hoping everyone sees their own baby as I do mine. I can't explain the feeling I get when I'm with her nor do I feel like trying because words can't describe the emotion. She's just a CUTIE PATOOTIE & my little sweetheart! I just love her soooo much! :D

Also, be sure to read the 10 Reasons I Love Being a Mommy!

Pumpkin Carving + Messy Baby!!

We got to carve an extra pumpkin this year! [For Miss A!] We were a little last-minute carving pumpkins the night before Halloween but better late than never! When picking out pumpkins, my only concern was that Miss A had to be able to fit inside the pumpkin! :D Hope you enjoy the pumpkin pictures. I sure am enjoying the pumpkin seeds!

Oohh it's cold in here!

But it's fun!!

There's gooey stuff between my toes!!

I like it! Hehehe

Nummy... it even tastes good!

Okay.. what's going on here?

Too bright...

What is this stuff?

Whoa now!

Really mom? You put pumpkin guts on my head. Really appreciate it, thanks.

At the Pumpkin Farm

I absolutely love Autumn! When we buy our own house I want to have enough land to raise bees and ducks, and grow a large garden. I want to grow all the fall crops-- pumpkins, squash, etc. I really want to get into landscaping and grow beautiful flowers, shrubs, and flower trees. Can't wait! Here's some snapshots of our trip to Orchard Hill Farm.

We also took some pictures of Miss A sitting inside her pumpkin! She was a messy baby!

GEESE!

WILD rabbits???

Fluffy Bunny!

I love honey sticks so much that I want to raise bees to make my own!

Sexy Cock!

She really is at least 2' tall.

Proud Daddy. Sleepy baby girl!

Benefits of Infant Massage

I know there are tons of benefits of getting a massage but I never considered giving my baby one until my friend recommended it to us. Today I had an Infant Massage Specialist come over to my place. There are several physical and mental health benefits from doing infant message. A gentle massage given to your baby benefits not only your baby but you too! The most important benefit is that just by doing it you and your baby have an extra bonding activity. You both are interacting with each other in a new special way. Touching your baby skin to skin has the same effects as a hug. When you give a hug, you feel just as good as the person receiving the hug. It's a reciprocal action, felt by both sides. Plus, it feels good for your baby!

Some health benefits include, but are not limited to helping babies with

• Colic
• Fussiness
• Gas Expulsion
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Colds [clearing sinuses]
• Tension
• Flexibility
• Stretching
• Relaxation
• Body Awareness
• Toning Digestive Tract

It is very important to ask permission to your baby before giving a massage. For example, before massaging each body part say, "Can mommy massage your legs Miss A?" [Obviously stating your baby's name.] Even though she is not going to respond at three months old with "YES!!", you will begin to teach your baby respect and healthy touch. It will also let your baby know something is about to happen.

The best time to give your baby a massage is when they are in a quiet alert stage of wakefulness. The specialist that came over suggested making massage a part of your baby's bedtime routine. We tried it tonight and Miss A really enjoyed having her belly and legs massaged. As for her face... she wanted nothing of it! We are going to try and incorporate this into her bedtime routine so she will get used to knowing when bedtime is coming. This will help relax her, hopefully making her fall asleep easier. [and more peaceful!]

The lady that came over offered free instructions to baby infant massage. She will come back in a month and answer any questions that come up. It was a fun activity to do and I recommend everyone to give it a chance! Call up your hospital and ask for infant massage specialists in your area. You may find some free resources as I did :)

No Live Sports for Miss A

I have to dedicate a small post to MISS A & LIVE SPORTS especially after the Michigan State Spartans EPIC win against the Wisconsin Badgers tonight!

GO GREEN!! 

[just sayin'!]

Okay but really... I thought it was going to be fun to dress Miss A up in MSU gear for the big games but it's not going as planned. Every time there is a huge play-- good or bad, I yell loudly. And so does Miss A. Actually she screams and doesn't stop for a good 15 minutes! I don't mean to sound big and scary... but apparently that's how I appear to her. She has been with me for almost every MSU football game this year and a couple Tigers games.. I fail to keep quiet so at least once every single ballgame, Miss A screams and fears for her life! It's sad because I'm having fun and she is freaking out! Poor little baby girl :( Hopefully next football season will be better for her!

Help! I Don't Know How To Be a Mommy Anymore!

I am having so much trouble figuring out what Miss A wants when she cries. Up until this past two weeks, I always knew what my baby wanted when she cried. She was either hungry, gassy and needed burped, or her diaper was dirty. Now I am at a loss. All those things are taken care of and she still fusses! Today she screamed on and off for about two hours. She is just super fussy all the time it seems. I do everything I can think of... rock her, rub her tummy, rub her back, put her in her swing and bouncy chair, sing to her, lay her on her back surrounded by toys, walk around with her, stroller rides, talk to her, stand in front of the mirror with her, put her in her crib with her mobile.... and many other things. I don't know if she is starting to teeth early, if she is sick, if she is bored, or what! It's frustrating. It was almost easier when I was sleep deprived and had to be up with her every 2 hours because at least I knew why she cried! EEEeeek! I hope she isn't starting to be colicky. She's been such a good, easy baby until these last weeks.

Don't criticize me for this... because I feel EXTREMELY GUILTY but right now she is staring peacefully at the television. She is watching some toddler cartoon show. She just started noticing the television and finds it fascinating. I know the television should not be used as a babysitter all the time. I know that there is some correlation between babies/children watching too much TV and ADD. But today, I almost lost my mind. I feel like she needs me every single second or else she screams...and regardless she screams! Before, she would at least take several naps that allowed me to have some "me" time. Don't get me wrong, I love being with her and playing with her but if she's just gonna scream all day long... how am I supposed to keep my sanity?? I hope this is just a stage... a short one!

Breastfeeding Crisis at 3 Months

I am having a major crisis. I feel like I am failing as a mother because I have fallen into the "convenience trap" of formula feeding. This past month, I gave Miss A so many bottles of formula that I'm beginning to dry up! I haven't been devoting my time to breastfeeding like I should be doing. Miss A used to nurse really well every morning. Now I can hardly get her to nurse for longer than one minute. Originally, I set a three month breastfeeding goal for myself. I achieved it but now I feel that it is my responsibility as a mother to give her breast milk until she is at least six months old. I know that breast milk is the best thing for her. It's much better than formula and since I am able to produce milk for her, I shouldn't stop simply because it's easier and faster to heat up a bottle and put powder in it.

In order to get myself back on the right track, I am going to start supplementing my diet with 500mg capsules of Fenugreek. It is an herb that is supposed to help nursing women increase their milk supply. I am also going to focus on drinking lots of water. Today specifically, I am doing power pumping sessions. I'm basically pumping every hour. It's VERY time consuming but I really want to give Miss A more breast milk than formula.

I have already started a post on "My Experience Using Fenugreek" so I can let everyone know whether or not it is effecting my milk supply. I plan to update everyone on my progress once each week. As of now I do not know how long I plan on taking it.

Wish me luck!

Pretty in Blue

Mini Photoshoot!

[~10 weeks old~]