Thursday, December 30, 2004

Big New Year's Eve plans!

Well, first let me say that we are party animals those of us in this house. ANIMALS! OK, that's a lie. We are no such animals. The last time John and I partied, we were on a cruise ship two and a half years ago, in the ocean among friends and colleagues of John's with few cares in this world. Instead, this time we are going to fix a nice meal at home and those of us over the age of 20 months, are going to struggle to stay awake until midnight, ring in the new year, and then fall over into bed.
I cannot believe our baby is getting ready to start her second year out among the rest of us. Where did the time go?
See ya' father time, welcome baby new year! Here we go again...

Monday, December 27, 2004

What a Christmas!

So many gifts! John's favorite was a tie between his new Polartec pullover and his Star Wars DVDs. My favorite was a tie between my new watch and my Dept. 56 White House. Lauren got so many gifts I don't know if she has a favorite. She got balls, books, clothes, an easel, and lots and lots of toys. She is a very lucky little girl. We are a very lucky family. I hope you had as great a holiday as we did.
We are truly blessed.

Friday, December 24, 2004

Merry Christmas to everyone from our house to yours!! Safe travels to you!
Love,
Jennifer

Wednesday, December 22, 2004

NOT a fan of snow!

In Lauren's relatively short life, we have never had a measurable snowfall. That is, until last night. This morning after breakfast, we bundled up our snow baby in sweatpants, turtle neck body suit, socks, snow bibs, hat, heavy jacket and tennis shoes (I should have gotten boots!) and headed out. She immediately started making that noise where I know she hates something and will soon be crying, but I showed her the snow in my hand anyway. Unimpressed is an understatement. She did, however, find the dog running through the snow to be worth the torture of being out in the cold.
I think we will try again later. Maybe I'll bring in some snow and put it in the tub to play with...I'll keep you posted.

Saturday, December 18, 2004

Santa times 2

We saw Santa for the first time this week at the VFW children's Christmas party and she was a bit shy at first and then, once almost everyone had left, gave him a smooch and offered him a bite of her cookie. We saw Santa (busy guy this time of year!) again today at the Elk's children's Christmas party. Today, she was shy for less time and even offered him some candy cane and then had a conversation with him as we happily snapped photos! She is getting brave in her old age.
Semi-sad side note: When Santa had to leave today, she got teary eyed and said, "He gone?" and I told her he was going to go rest for his big trip this Friday night and he needed his rest in order to bring her lots of goodies. She seemed to accept that fact.

Rest up Santa! You've got a long week ahead!

Tuesday, December 14, 2004

Update:

Another ear infection/eye infection. She is doing better today and should be her "old" self again by tomorrow. I can't wait for eating to return...

Monday, December 13, 2004

Sick again...

Again snotty nose, matted eyes, not eating, not feeling well. Sleeping at night is good, naps are long, her patience grow very short very quickly though. She's not putting up with much bull these days either. Peditrician's appointment later today should tell us what's up, again.

Dentist appointment
This morning, we had our second dentist appointment with Dr. Miller in Newburgh. She hated it, but her teeth look great. No cavaties, no weak spots. Great pearly whites!!!

Thursday, December 09, 2004

Welcome to pantsless Thursday!

Guess who just figured out how to take off her pants? You're right! Lauren! Now, do I go buy baby suspenders?

Monday, December 06, 2004

What does that mean anyway?

No means no right? WRONG! No can mean no, yes, now, later, hot, cold, no, hungry, full, thirsty, sleepy, no, food, drink, outside, inside, no, more, less....you get the picture.
However, in our house, no is said by head shaking and "Uh uh."
"Do you want to get a drink?" (while she shakes her sippy cup)
"Uh uh"
"Do you want to go for a walk?" (while she drags my by the hand down the driveway)
"Uh uh"
"Do you want to go potty?" (while she is sitting on her potty)
"Uh uh"
Watch out Nancy Drew! I am getting to be a pretty good detective myself.

Wednesday, December 01, 2004

Playing for playings sake

I hear other mothers say how their child knows colors, shapes, letters, number etc., etc., etc. I let Lauren play. I let her run, play, cuddle, flip around, jump, sing songs, read books with her and occationally we talk about shapes and colors. Should I feel bad? Hope not, because I don't. I want her to have fun. Children her age learn through play. When did learning become everyone's focus? College applications, at least from what I remember, don't ask questions like: At what age did you know the difference in sage and spruce? When did you realize that all squares are rectangles but not all rectangles are squares? When could you count to 1,000,000?
Come on! Let kids be kids.
I know mine is. And I love her for it.

Thursday, November 25, 2004

Once Upon A Time

There was a little girl, a beautiful little girl and she didn't like mashed potatoes. She wouldn't eat them under any circumstances, and then came Thanksgiving Day. All was well when the little girl was given mashed potatoes and corn (also a previously rejected veggie) and she ate and she ate and she ate.
She also ate coconut cream pie, pumpkin pie, Cool Whip, rolls and cashews.
What a great Thanksgiving.

The End.

Wednesday, November 24, 2004

Update:

We went to see Lauren's pediatrician today and he confirmed she has and ear infectiona and an eye infection. Oral anti-biotics and eye drops. Guess who's gonna be her favorite parent for the next 10 days. HHhhmmm. Give up? ME! At least this may explain the screaming and not being able to be comforted. Also, she has a stomach virus and has been battling it for the last 8 days and counting.

I'll let you know how she is after turkey day.

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!!

Monday, November 22, 2004

Fits

She has them. She throws them. She uses them to her advantage.
I'm tired of them.
How long can this last? I don't know if she feels bad (stomach bug for a week), is teething (just cut her first 2 yr. molar), or if terrible two's are going to be worse than I feared.
If any of my savvy blog readers have ideas, please, for my sanity, leave a comment and suggestion. At this point, I'm willing to try almost anything.
More later if I am not yet committed...

Wednesday, November 17, 2004

Lotion

Lotion and chapstick. Lotion and more chapstick. More lotion...etc., etc., etc. Anytime Lauren sees a bottle of lotion she starts to rub her hands together and grunts and points for some. She doesn't care if it is scented, unscented, foot lotion or other, she just wants it. Same goes for chapstick. Rebecca has vanilla flavored, I have Blistex. Granted she would rather have Rebecca's, but she'll take mine in a pinch. Bath & Body Works is a dangerous place to take her.

Sunday, November 14, 2004

Just the facts:

Lauren Elizabeth is now 1 yr., 7 mo. and 10 days old. At last count, she was just over 33" and 26 1/2 pds. She is beautiful with brown eyes and brown hair that curls just slightly in the back. Her favorite shows are: #1 Blue's Clues #2 Sesame Street and #3 Dora the Explorer. She loves the cat and the dog and running full speed through the house just missing the door facing of the kitchen as she goes.
More later...

Saturday, November 13, 2004

So grown up, and yet...

I look up at Lauren and see a kid running through my house, chasing the dog and cat, watching TV, saying, "Mommeee!" and "Dadeee!" over and over. And then...
I look at my sleeping angel or my naked baby running through the house and realize how little she still is.
How can someone be so big and so little all in the same day?
She's growing up too fast.
What a beauty!

Friday, November 12, 2004

Charming

Recently, Lauren has discovered Lucky Charms and LOVES the marshmellows. She picks them all out of her bowl, eats them, and leaves the cereal. Typical.
She also smiles and rubs you if she hurts you either accidentally or on purpose when she's mad. Charming...

Update
Her face heal up fine from falling on Halloween, she's sleeping all through the night, she is running more than walking and still LOVES Blue's Clues.

Sunday, October 31, 2004

Trick or Treating fun!!

Fun, yet not. We trick or treated in Princeton last night and Lauren dressed as the World's Cutest Ballerina. She refused to walk through piles of leaves, but wasn't overly shy when "strangers" gave her candy. She seemed to enjoy the walk at night when we usually only walk during the day and it was warm enough, no coat was needed.
Today was a different story. This morning, she dropped a cup on her toe and broke her toe nail and skinned her toe. This afternoon, all was well, until she tripped and fell and caught herself with her face. Her nose, lip and forehead are scraped and she was mad and really hurt. Daddy to the rescue when she fell, and then momma had to Neosporin her face and sing You Are My Sunshine over and over and over. Whatever it takes. Poor little face.

Tuesday, October 26, 2004

My little ladybug

For Halloween last year, Lauren was a cell phone. Cute! Mother made the costume down to the glow-in-the-dark paint around the numbers and the hat complete with antennae! This year, it's ladybug. Last year, candy meant nothing. This year, candy means everything. She knows what a Snickers is. She sees chocolate at 100 yards and comes a runnin'! Hope she isn't afraid of all of the strangers at the door when we shout trick or treat!
I'll keep you posted!!

Monday, October 18, 2004

More than words

My sweet little girl has started to say, "Good girl". She repeats it. She says it when she does what she is asked. And she is a good girl.
Rolling the ball is also a new past time for us. She sits on the floor and yells until one of us sits with her. Then the ball rolling starts. That is, until the ball rolls down the hallway and then we have to go with her to retrieve it. The hall can be a dark, scary place.
What a good girl!

Saturday, October 09, 2004

Now with more head banging

Well, our sickness is over. We are officially eating and drinking again. Wet diapers abound. Good news for all involved I say.
However.
We are starting rapidly to head for the Terrible Two's. Mood swings. Screaming fits. Loving and hugging and hitting and head banging. And all within the span of 5 minutes.
From what I understand, the fun has just begun...

Monday, October 04, 2004

Sick-O still

We have a dr.'s appointment tomorrow. Lots of sleeping today. BUT, when she's awake, she's great! Running and playing and laughing. Beating the dog. Lying on the cat. Normal stuff. But lots of sleep. Maybe ears? Maybe teeth? Maybe nothing?
I'll keep you posted!

Sunday, October 03, 2004

Sick-O

Last night Lauren had her first fever. Red cheeks and all. Sad.
She was lathargic this morning, took an early nap and then seemed better. Tonight though, she started looking sick around her eyes. So sad.
Get better soon sweet beautiful! Momma loves you!!

Saturday, September 25, 2004

Are you a camel?

Tonight, Lauren drank SSssooo much!! She also ate a 1/4 lb. hot dog! Growing girl indeed...
She is really telling us when she is hungry too. She actullay led me by the hand to the kitchen and opened a cabinet to let me know she was hungry tonight.
Then, when we got home, she wanted a drink. Maybe the hot dog was too salty? Anyway, drinking, drinking, drinking.

Sunday, September 19, 2004

Waiting for Momma

I have been waiting and waiting for Lauren to say Momma, but not yet. She says Dadee, dog, cat, ice etc., etc., but no Momma. I am trying to be patient, but I'm losing my patients. Not really, but I can't wait to hear it. Someone remind me of this a year from now when I am considering changing my name from Momma to some undisclosed name that no one will be privy to.
In the mean time, I'll just keep waiting...

Thursday, September 16, 2004

Dirty bird

Do you think a dirty child is any indication of how much fun they had at the park? I know I do. IF that is any indication, then boy! Lauren had F-U-N today! She required a bath before her nap! "Hi! This is my daughter Pigpen."
Very cute and VERY dirty!

Monday, September 13, 2004

What a beauty!!

Everyday. That is how often I look in amazment at this gorgeous child of ours. Walking, talking, running, dancing, or crying, she is just the best thing in the world. She is beautiful. Amazing. Smart.
God, I love her!

Wednesday, September 08, 2004

Nothing to do with Lauren

Once upon a time, Rebecca and Bryan found Zu. Then, a few months later, craziness happened. Ex-cons laid claim to a dog they didn't love, and in turn, we think really hurt this sweet, innocent little dog. Now the dog will pay the ultimate price. He will be put to sleep this afternoon.
I don't understand how anyone can hurt a dog. I don't get it. Why are those people so mean? How are they rearing their children? To do whatever you want to do in order to get your way? I am so mad!
Zu was a great little dog and I am glad we got to know and love him.
RIP little doggy.

Thursday, September 02, 2004

Lemme tell 'ya

Chicago is a great city. To visit. Not to drive in, not to ride in, but to visit and see Oprah and shop and eat, FANTASTIC! Loved it!
Lauren's babysitter was really nice and Lauren took right to her.
Our hotel was really nice too. Lauren even slept in the crib provided by the hotel and today before we left, they gave us a glass of milk for her.
There are stores there that I have only heard of or seen online. The Apple store was one of the most beautiful stores that I've ever been in and Lauren liked listening to an IPod playing Barry White.
Lake Michigan is bigger than I remember it, too. With lots of sail boats on a windy day.
In Chicago though, there are reminders that not everyone is as fortunate as we are. There are poor parts of the city and homeless people. In our small little corner of the world, you don't really see that too often. If you can carry everything you own in one milk crate, your world isn't so great. I hope no one I know is every in that position. For the record, if I know you and you ever feel like that is where you are headed, please tell me. I will help you.

Tuesday, August 31, 2004

The waiting game

About a week (though it seems like FOREVER) ago, I ordered Lauren's new stroller. It is in Evansville and I have called UPS to have them hold it at their hub, but I have to wait until 9:30 a.m. to see if it has gotten pulled off of the truck. I sure hope so. We leave later today for Chicago and I would love to have the new stroller to help us with our trip.
By the way, Oprah, here I come again and this time I'm bringing John!!

Monday, August 30, 2004

The tale of the impending babysitter...

Sounds spooky doesn't it? It is. Believe me. We are going to Chicago Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and will be seeing a taping of Oprah. It will be my second time to go and John's first. Still exciting but this time with a twist. Since we are going, so is Lauren and I am a little nervous about using a babysitting service where I call, reserve a babysitter, babysitter comes to our hotel, we leave, come back and Lauren has played (I HOPE!) the whole time and is well rested and ready for our next adventure. I hope so. They sitters are licensed, screened, insured, and bonded. Still, butterflies have decided to reside in my stomach and John's.
I'm sure everything will be fine. In case it's not, John has opted to give up his ticket and stay with the baby and I will go see Oprah solo. It's a small price to pay for safety. But I'm sure she'll be fine.
I hope so.

Saturday, August 28, 2004

Holiday World

We went to Holiday World today and had a great, H-O-T time!! Free soft drinks/water is an outstanding idea and I praise the park for giving something away for free. Lauren rode the merry-go-round for the first time, sat in Santa's lap, played in the Holidog Playland and loved the water sprinklers! At one point, she was in only her diaper. Yes she was slathered, more than once, in SPF 45.
Now, we are worn out! She slept for only 45 minutes and I slept none, so tonight, I am hoping for outstanding sleep!
http://www.holidayworld.com

Monday, August 23, 2004

The Fight of the Nap

I have never figured out why in the world babies fight a good nap. It's cool, dark and semi-quiet. It's in the middle of the day. You feel refreshed when you are done. All good things in my opinion. Ask Lauren and she'd say I was WRONG!!
I think she actually hates knowing she is going to sleep in any fashion. If she falls asleep in the car, all's well because she can "control" when and where she is sleeping. If she is put in her crib awake at any time of day, watch out! She is banshee angry!! I think it she could, she might poke out my eyes she is so mad. Then, after much (typically 2-10 minutes) of blood curdling screams, silence...Beautiful silence.
She's rested. I'm rested. All's right with the world once again.
At least until night time...

Sunday, August 22, 2004

My monkey

I think Lauren has been influenced by the Olympics we have been watching. She is "in to" hanging from everything. The counters, the dresser, the table...Anything she can get her hands on. She even hangs on me whenever she can.
Watch out Carly Patterson. Lauren in on her way...

Friday, August 13, 2004

Sleeping beauty

I am looking at the most precious baby in the world. She is gorgeous. Smart. Quick. Amazing. Fantastic. Loving. AND, currently sleeping in my lap. I love her. I just love her so much.

Monday, August 09, 2004

The power of crying

In the last couple of weeks, Lauren has been harder and harder to put to bed while she is sleeping. Therefore, we have started crying it out. The first night it was about 15 minutes, next night 7 minute, then 6 and tonight, 2 little minutes. Not bad.
I knew eventually it would come to this, but she is still a baby. Just not so little anymore...

Saturday, August 07, 2004

This is my dilemma

I used to give Lauren a bottle every night and hold her until she was sleeping. Then, quietly, I would tip-toe down the hall and put her in her bed, raise the rail and tip-toe out again, closing the door behind me. That is now a thing of the past. I still give her a bottle and hold her until she is sleeping, but here's the catch. She no longer stays asleep once I put her in her bed. She bolts up and starts SCREAMING!!! I don't mean a little bit either. I mean, full on, "someone is trying to rip my arm off" screaming. It last for anywhere from 5-20 minutes and is very sad to hear, but I think necessary. I have started shortening the time that I hold her sleeping in hopes that one day, I will be able to put her in her bed while she is still awake. At this point, however, that seems like a pipe dream. Fingers crossed for us tonight!!!

Sunday, August 01, 2004

Big things are happening

The two major milestones we hit this week: jumping with both feet and saying "Uh-Oh!". She jumped when she saw Aunt Rebecca and Foxy and started saying uh-oh when she fell down. She says words, but uh-oh is the first on her own, without prompting from me. I say uh-oh when she falls or drops something, but I didn't think I said it enough for her to "get it". Guess I did though. What a fantastic little person she is!! And so smart!

Tuesday, July 27, 2004

Baby Schedule

Needless to say, babies want/need/require a schedule. Lauren is trying to get back on her once lovely schedule, but it is hard to do. She no longer naps in the afternoon since she doesn't get a bottle then, and only sleeps if in the car. She also has started waking at night 2-5 times. She gets to cry all alone which pains me, but the cries are short lived. What happened to my sweet napping baby who once took 2-3 hour naps and slept most all night? Vacation. That's what happened. Given the chance, I'd do it all again.
 
P.S. Do you like the colors?

Sunday, July 25, 2004

V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N

We just got back from vacation and it was great!! If you get the chance, go there. Lauren LOVED playing in the mountain streams and was more than willing to go naked if need be.  The scenery was awesome and the cabin was pretty nice too. By cabin, I mean the house we rented. Lauren could get in the hot tub because it wasn't too hot. LOVED that, too. See a pattern of water love? More later!!

Monday, July 12, 2004

OOO!! The pretty lights!!

When Lauren was 3 1/2 mo. old, we took her to the Gibson Co. Fair. She liked it OK I guess, but really, didn't seem too interested in all of the goings on around her. That was last year. This year, was completely different. The lights. The crowd. The music. And the ever growing darker clouds in the sky, made her sit up and take notice. She'd ooh and ahh over the rides moving, the lights flashing and the music blaring from the recently set-up rides and games. She didn't even look at my dad at first but sort of acknowledged his presence with a little wave while looking all around. Then, he got her a balloon and all of her attention turned to Granddaddy.
This year she didn't ride any rides because the impending clouds of doom rolling in, but next year, look out!!

Thursday, July 08, 2004

These lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer

Lately Lauren has been sleeping until 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., and that's if I wake her! I think I may just let her sleep today. I think the heat, lack of a strict daily napping schedule and being on the go a lot are big contributors to her sudden interest in sleep. She is still napping 2-3 hours a day, but I think she is OK with sleeping this much. She is VERY active when awake, almost hard to keep up with. She runs more than walks anymore. Go baby, go!!

Monday, July 05, 2004

Not such a hit

We were all wondering just how Lauren would react to fireworks. Let me tell you. Wimpering before, crying and a look of terror/panic during the first four or five and therefore, she and I ended up watching fireworks from the safety of inside a truck with the windows rolled up. Gets a bit toasty in a truck with the windows rolled up on the 4th of July, but honestly, it was all about Lauren feeling safe and happy. Maybe next year we can be out amongst the people, but until then, no more fireworks makes Lauren a very happy girl.

Thursday, July 01, 2004

To nap or not to nap, that is the question...

Yesterday, Lauren napped for about 45 minutes, and I might be exaggerating on how long she actually slept. Therefore, last night she slept, no exageration, 12 hours with two brief periods of cry, cry, cry go back to sleep in the middle. So, today she didn't nap until 3 p.m. What kind of crazy nighttime schedule will she be on tonight? I know she still needs naps. I know that, most of the time, she still wants naps. Why, then, does it take every ounce of brute strength she has to keep herself awake and screaming, instead of peacefully giving into sleep like I would?
Kids...;)

Tuesday, June 29, 2004

Beach baby

We were at Burdette Park today for 2 hours and Lauren LOVED it!! She laughed and smiled and splashed and played and fell down and got back up and took off her hat and had a ball! Tuesdays are half price day at the park, which was great to boot. Oh! And by the way, she was slathered in sunscreen, I was not. Guess who is now bright red and going to be very sorry tomorrow...

Sunday, June 27, 2004

Going, going, going...

It seems that these beautiful days of summer make us go, go, go, go. I don't mind. I hope Lauren doesn't either. For her, and really for me, we make daily (well, almost) trips to the park. She really likes the swings. I do to. She is also a fan of the slide. I just enjoy her so much more than I ever knew I would or could. She is the light of my everyday and I just can't explain how much I love her and am amazed by her more every day. (sappy, but true!)

Monday, June 21, 2004

Woo-Hoo!!!

I have exciting news!! Today, for the first time in so many months, I put Lauren in her crib at naptime and she went to sleep on her own! I just can't believe it!! She is on top of her blanket and bunny, but she is asleep. I wonder how long she will sleep? Most days 2-3 hours, so far 1 1/2 hours. Not too bad for a first try!!
I'll say it again, Woo-Hoo!!

Friday, June 18, 2004

New found fun

Besides the park and pool, we have a new favorite place. Hands on Discovery was a HUGE hit today!! Some crying when we left even! Though I am sorry for the tears, I am happy we got a family membership for a year. I will have to use the membership a few times to pay for it, but since everyone costs $4 a visit, we have already use $12 of the $45 cost to join. I am so glad that there are neat things for kids to do here. Now, if we could just get a children's museum and aquarium...

Sunday, June 13, 2004

Bottles

Lauren is still taking a bottle three or four times a day. I think that is fine, too. Some people ask why she still takes one and I answer, "Because she is still a baby." Why make kids grow so fast? So a bottle it will be.

Wednesday, June 09, 2004

Park

We have gone to the park a lot more lately. Lauren seems to love the swing the best of all. Next in line of favorites is trash on the ground. YUCK!! Why are babies attracted to the very most disgusting things that they can find?
Yesterday at the park was a very cute little boy who ran up to Lauren, she waved at him and he hugged her then said, "Bye!" and ran off. Later, he ran up and hugged her again, but this time he accidentally knocked her down. Still a little unsure on her feet. When she got up, she followed him around.
John said, "Wouldn't it be neat if in 25 years we were talking to a boy's parents and realized..." It would be neat.
Off to the pool and park today.
I love summer!! Outdoors is the place to be!

Sunday, June 06, 2004

Baby steps

How many steps can a baby take in one day? I think I would like to put a pedometer on Lauren and answer that question. This weekend, she walked all over the French Lick Springs Resort and Lane's Motel. Most of the time, she was barefooted. She likes her shoes, but I thought, while she's young and can get away with it, why not? She waved to almost everyone. Smiled and talked a lot. All around, she was the hit of the weekend. Quite the party animal too. She was awake until almost 11 p.m. one night, and the same the next night. Walking, almost running, makes a girl tired too. I know it makes me tired to "chase" her. And with that said, I am off to bed.
More later...

Monday, May 31, 2004

New Wheels

It was bound to happen. A new stroller was always a thought on the horizon, and is now a reality. After looking at a few, we finally decided on a new Eddie Bauer stroller. It is lighter weight, has a nylon-y material for easier cleaning, a big basket and seems easy to steer. I hope we are happier with it than our old one. I also accosted a woman in the store with our exact new stroller and asked her opinion. She loved it.
I have decided in my year of parenting that no pregnant woman or father-to-be should be allowed to roam free among the stoller isle. At least not unassisted. Babies R Us is a great store with a fairly knowledgeable staff. Too many things seem appealing and nice and not enough seem realistic to the untrained, unassisted eye. Now, I feel better prepared to make this kind of decision.
I hope it's the right one...

Saturday, May 29, 2004

Baby words

Lauren is using more than grunts and screams to let us know what she needs, although she uses plenty of those, too. With a 99% degree of certainty, she says the following words:
Doggy
Kitty
Bye Bye
Hi
Da dee
(for all adults, John and me included)
and most recently, something resembling Ball
In just a few short months, I won't be able to so easily list all of the words that she knows.
What an amazing human being!!

Thursday, May 27, 2004

Diaper Rash

Is babboon butt a nice name to call a child? The answer to that is no. No it's not nice. It is, however, appropriate. Poor baby has such a red butt. Desitin to the rescue. And also Lotrimin (athlete's foot cream). I feel so badly for her. I try to let her be naked, but that results in her peeing on the floor everytime she is diaper-less. I mean EVERY time. Following her around with a towel is my solution. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated in the comments section. Poor baby butt...

Wednesday, May 26, 2004

No More Crawling

I can't tell you the last time Lauren crawled. Now walking is all the rage. There is no middle ground. She walks and walks and walks...Then you know what? She walks some more. She gets her balance by swaying back and forth so far I'm sure she'll fall. She doesn't fall. Not much anyway.
What a person she is becoming!

Sunday, May 23, 2004

No Fear!!

Remember a few years ago when No Fear stickers were all the rage? Now I see No Fear in my precious baby girl every day. She goes 100 mph when awake. Into walls, over the cat and dog, off of the bed, down the hall etc. and never looks back. She walks 1,000,000 miles a day and crashes at the end of the day.
If I could only live in No Fear, but sadly, no. I know there will be bumps and bruises along the way. I know she will have fears. I have heard of children getting fears of taking baths, of going into dark rooms, of strangers. My child? NO FEAR! Occational apprehension, yes. Fear? Not yet.
I hope my little girl is always fearless.

Wednesday, May 19, 2004

My big girl

I look at Lauren everyday. I look at her hair getting so long. I look at her shoes she is outgrowing. I look at how much she knows. I notice how her face is changing. I see her mind working. How she waves to me. How she smile with all 16 teeth shining. I only really look at these changes when I see younger pictures of her. How much she has changed.
One short year ago, she was 1 month and 15 days old. WOW!! I knew we'd get here eventually, but so soon?
She climbs on the couch. She "beats" the cat. She watches TV. She dances. She swims. She talks to the dog and to us. What happened to the crying, helpless baby? She's growing up and too fast.
That's my big girl...

Friday, May 14, 2004

US Olympic Team 2020

Here she comes. Lauren the swimmer. She LOVES her swimming class at the YMCA. She is a virtual fish. Not that we let her swim alone. We actually have never let go, which is good because she can't actually swim. She loves to try though. We work on kicking our legs, paddling our arms, getting our ears and chins wet and jumping (with help of course) in the pool!! We do all kinds of fun songs too!! She is sure if she tries hard enough, she will be able to drink the contents of the pool. Rest assured, we try to stop her, but boy, that much water...
Bath time is becoming much like swimming lessons as well. We kick, splash and try to put our face in the water. A mother's worst nightmare. I never turn my head for a second. She is so quick. I fear if I did...
I am pretty sure, she will be in the Summer Olympics 2020, so watch your local listings for times. I'll keep you posted.

Wednesday, May 12, 2004

New all over again

I like my blog, don't get me wrong. I am getting geekier everyday. Now you can comment on my blog. It has a new templet. A picture of Lauren. What's next? I feel like a new user all over again. I have to try and try again for every new feature you see. Not really very computer savvy, but I get by.
Then I start to think. How much more will Lauren know by age 10 about computers than I will ever know? John worries that one day HE will be the older American who is unwilling to learn new technology. I doubt that will ever be him, but it could SO be me. I get frustrated trying things that don't work the first time, every time. And I wonder where Lauren gets it. The screaming in frustration when something doesn't work/fit/taste good etc., then I look at her parents, and the question is answered.

Tuesday, May 11, 2004


Cheese!! Posted by Hello
Sad News

Last night about 9 o'clock, I got a phone call letting me know a friend of mine had died. It was not a surprise to me, but still, it makes me pause and think of him and his wife and three children. I saw him just last week, lying in his bedroom which now contained a twin bed for his wife and a hospital bed for him. He was sleeping and looked tired. I heard that yesterday, he seemed peaceful. Ready. He lived longer than doctors predicted. They said 2 years. He said HA! and lived 2 years, 1 month and 27 days.
I don't know how his wife will find the strength to go on. But she will. For their children, for their sanity, and mostly, because she doesn't have a choice.
I wish I knew what to do now. I guess just be their friend. Offer to help when I can. I am truly sorry to hear this news. I hope I never know the pain she has to be going through.

Monday, May 10, 2004

Universally funny

Walking is now part of daily life. What has now changed is something different than what you may think. Lauren now laughs every time she passes gas. Funny stuff!! She has also discovered that she can make me laugh by tickling me. Her sense of humor is becoming more apparent everyday. She giggles a lot when the cat is on the floor and she tries to grab the cats ears. Just before Lauren grabs her ear, Gracie moves them. She laughs loudly enough, when I'm on the phone with Rebecca, Rebecca can hear her.
There is nothing better than a baby giggle. Bottle it and sell it and the problems of the world will just fade away...

Tuesday, May 04, 2004

Not at all about Lauren

I have found a new "addiction". It is to a website. When Lauren is asleep, when John is home and with her, when I have a question, I go there. It is terribly entertaining, educating, fun, and infuriating all at the same time. Let me tell you something. People have opinions. Lots of them. And they are STRONG opinions. Opinions that, if necessary, would be defended to the death! Esp. regarding breastfeeding, politics, letting babies cry etc.
I like my new pasttime. I have to go, dh is on the phone and dd just woke up!:)

Monday, May 03, 2004

The amazing singing, dancing baby

She hums. She sways. She bounces. She claps. She's the amazinig, singing, dancing baby. This week she started showing real interest in songs from the library and swimming. It is SO cute. Doesn't matter who's singing it, Rebecca, Dad, me. She is a musical baby. She even started singing with Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star with Baby Galileo.
My daughter is officially the smartest and cutest in the whole world! So there!

Friday, April 30, 2004

FYI

I now have a guest book at the bottom of this page, so feel free to sign it, ask questions, make comments etc.

Sleepless Night

What happened? After weeks of great sleeping, last night we went backwards. For 55 minutes, Lauren wailed!!! I'm sure the neighbors loved the fact we chose last night to sleep with all of the windows open, but how was I supposed to know? I had the usual anxiety about, let her cry, go get her, go in a sit until she calms down... I think parenting is just a group of guesses. No manuel. No right or wrong to every question. No telling how tonight will be. She woke up this morning happy, smiling, patting me on the back. Therefore, I am led to believe that my pediatrician was right. She won't hold a grudge, she will go back to sleep. And then, so will I.

Wednesday, April 28, 2004

Frankenstein-ish

Why is it that when we are in public, Lauren all but refuses to walk? She hangs on my leg, sits, crawls, will hold my finger and walk, but ask her to walk on her own and she gives you this, "I can't do that you crazy woman!" look. I'm not crazy, I swear. John has seen her walk, Rebecca has seen her, our parents have seen her and so have most all in-laws. When strangers ask, as they often do, if she can walk, I tell them, "When she wants to. Crawling moves her faster." If they have children, they nod knowingly and walk on. If they have no children, they just shake their head in disbelief. Trust me. She walks. And one day, you'll see her do it.
The best way I can describe her walk, is like Frankenstein. She walks stiff legged, swinging her legs around rather than bending at the knee, and V-E-R-Y slowly. I know. I'm not criticizing her. I'm just telling you what I see, and what I see is a beautiful child who LOOKS nothing like Frankenstein, (you know, she's not grey, has no bolts in her neck, needs no lightening to be brought to life) but walks just like him. Walks I tell ya'. She really does it.

Sunday, April 25, 2004

Walking, walking, walking

Well, walking is something we are doing more of. Lots more. I think today Lauren actually walked more than crawled. Not a good sign for an unprepared mother who needs to do LOTS more baby proofing. She proved that point today by chewing on the entertainment center when I thought she was looking at a picture. Foolish Momma. No baby is THAT interested in photography...Now our entertainment center has a little piece of finish (paper finish) missing. And it's right on the front. I now have to baby proof. It is time.
A walking we will go, a walking we will go, hi ho the merry-o, a walking we will go. For the rest of our lives...

Friday, April 23, 2004

Going places

Today, Lauren decided to walk about 10 feet without help, without prompting, and without much pomp and circumstance. Does this mean that running is just around our corner? Maybe not for a few more days...

When we go on vacation in a few short months, I bet she'll be walking like crazy. Now that's a scary proposition. Walking in a town where I will know only 4 other people and they are family. Now is when I will have to be on my toes more than ever before. Fortunately, we aren't going someplace like Disney, at least not yet. We are starting with something smaller like Gatlinburg or Lake of the Ozarks. OH!! Then I have to worry about water and Lauren finding it and wanting to get in and........

Worrying gets you no where. Walking gets you everywhere. Just ask Lauren.

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

Mall yelling

I guess the mall is a great place to yell and echo. Lauren found this out today. She had fun echoing, and frankly I hope it didn't bother other people, but if it did, so what? She's a baby. Growing up more every day so yelling won't last forever. I'll miss it...

Monday, April 19, 2004

Shots

Tomorrow we get more shots in our immunizations. FUN!! I believe we will be getting MMR and Varicella. Neither cause fever, but I bet they will cause a fit and maybe not just because they hurt. She has to be held still and she hates that. Thank goodness John goes with us. He holds her down, she gets the shots and I get to swoop in and "save" her. I have a good job. I know. The shots are for her health and I want her to be as healthy as possible, I just hate to see her in pain. Maybe some day I'll get over it. For now, thank goodness for John.

More later...

P.S. Happy Birthday John!! We love you very much!!

Friday, April 16, 2004

Not sure what happened

I posted a few days ago about our "wabbler toddler" and it's not showing up. Blogger support is checking on it. I believe I posted Wednesday. Didn't want anyone to think I was slacking...

Water, Water, Everywhere

Last night was our first swimming "lesson". Honestly, it was more a play in the water class which is fine by me. We are not trying to make her an Olympic swimmer, just someone who has fun in the water with Momma and Daddy. She was clingy at first, then not, then clingy again and finally, had a lot of fun with her ball and let me have her float (with my hands under her the entire time) and hold the ball. She was honestly not very happy when we got out of the water. The neatest thing in the locker room was a swim suit dryer. It was basically a spin cycle to get out excess water, but I was impressed. I think we are going to like going to the YMCA.

More later...

Wednesday, April 14, 2004

Baby steps

A few steps here and a few steps there and soon I'll be the proud parent of a running toddler. At this point, a toddling toddler is what I have. Maybe wabbling is a better description. She takes a few steps and then falls to her knees since crawling is obviously faster than walking. At least so far. She is, however, an expert at walking on her knees. It's pretty cute, too. I think sometimes she forgets she can take steps. Maybe she just knows knees are faster than feet. Who understands the mind of a toddler? Maybe toddler sounds stranger than "...1-year-old."
It certainly won't be long now. Watch out world!! Here comes Lauren!!

Monday, April 12, 2004

Hoppy Easter (a day late...)

Hope everyone had a great Easter full of family, food, fun and fellowship if that's your gig. We went to church and made it until the semon and then had to go to the nursery. 40 minutes isn't too bad with a 1-year-old. That sounds weird to say "My daughter is 1."
She searched for eggs at her grandparents house, finally understanding to put the eggs in her basket. She also took six or seven steps several times for chocolate bunnies and M&M's, in wrappers of course, but STEPS!! Just days from running, walking is just around the corner. She is really trying as long as she is sure footed and not on our hardwood floors. My world is about to change before my very eyes. Wish me luck!!

Friday, April 09, 2004

Party notes

Everyone arrived on time and Lauren was sleeping, of course. She woke soon thereafter and opened LOTS of presents, then we went upstairs and sang (she clapped when we were done singing!!), she ate icing, not too much cake, had a bath, played with all kinds of new stuff, ate supper and later went to bed. What a great day!!

The next day, we went to the dr. for her one year appointment and he said what we already knew but didn't want to hear, "If she's not sleeping through the night, trust me, let her cry. She's fine. She's not hurt. Let her cry." Yeah, right.
We let her cry. 40 minutes the first night with a 20 minute break and then 20 more minutes of crying.
The next night, 2 hours of on and off crying.
The next night, SILENCE...
I don't know if she gave up on us or if I slept through it (which I doubt) but silence is what we got. Not that I slept seeing as how I am used to being up at all hours.
The next night, also SILENCE. I think we're on to something. I'll let you know...

Tuesday, April 06, 2004

One year ago today

I don't know why drs. (actually, insurance companies) think that in two short days, a woman who has given birth, has stuff coming out of everywhere (tears, other etc.), has gotten very little sleep and has no adult food at home is ready to bring home a baby who is just hours old. But they sent us on our merry way and we made it.
Doesn't seem possible that one year ago tonight, we were alone for the first time as our new family. It's all up to us. We make the decisions, right or wrong. We decide bedtime (ha-ha!!), feeding time (yeah right!), when to change her, how to dress her etc., etc., etc... Lots of resposibilities for two people who, until now, had to decide what to do this weekend, what movie to go see, where to go eat and those were the BIG decisions. Now it's what to feed her that isn't pure sugar. Where will she go to pre-school? There are waiting lists you know. How will she wear her hair once it gets long enough? Will she ever like to play in the grass as much as she likes the porch? I guess two days is enough training. Thank goodness the drs. and nurses get more, that's all I'm saying...

Sunday, April 04, 2004

One year ago today, the love of our lives came in to this world. She is amazing everyday and this is what happened, moment by moment. Keep in mind that I typed this the day after she was born so that we wouldn't forget a thing. I'm glad John insisted I do it. ENJOY!!
***********************************************************************************

6:00 a.m.- Set our alarm last night for 5:00 a.m. but in anticipation and excitement, we were both awake most of the night, but got up at 4:45 a.m. We arrived at St. Mary’s to check in for my induction and had to be brought upstairs in a wheel chair and was put in room 3521 which was really close to the nurses station. The nurse who checked us in was Jill and she was great. She gave me my IV and I told her I was afraid of needles, so she left and came back with a small needle to give me a local before the IV. I didn’t even feel it go in at all, and John watched my face and the needle and said he could tell I didn’t feel it because my face didn’t change. She got off of work at 7:00 a.m. and then our nurse was Sheryl.

7:30 a.m.- They started my Pitocin. It went in through my IV. Dr. Brown came in to check me and said my cervix was still 2.5 and the cervix was still up high. She TRIED to break my water, but Lauren was still up way too high. Dr. Brown said she would be back later.

9:30 a.m.- Dr. Brown came back and said, “Any pain yet?” I was sitting in the glider rocker, reading the courier, watching Regis & Kelly and said, “Not really.” She said, “OK, I’ll be back later.”

10:00 a.m.- Rebecca and Bryan got here

10:15 a.m.- Mother and Dad got here and had a planter for us of flowers.

11:00 a.m.- Malee, Chuck and Mark got here, brought roses from John

12:30 p.m.- Dr. Brown came back. By this time, the Pitocin was at 21% and the highest the nurse could turn it without a doctors order was 30%. Dr. Brown asked again, “Any pain yet?” I still really felt nothing. The contraction monitor was registering my contractions at 80-83, I think it registered up to about the 130’s. Dr. Brown said, “OK. You have two choices. We can stop the Pitocin and come back next week and try again or I can try and break your water, but if I do, you have to have this baby in the next 24 hours one way or another.” I asked John, “What do you think?” He said, “I don’t know. Dr. what do you think?” She said, “I honestly think if I break your water, you will progress pretty fast.” I asked, “Does this increase my chance of c-section even more?” She said, “If you get pregnant, your chance of c-section is high anyway. I don’t want you to think that if this ends in cesarean that you have made the wrong choice. If we stop and come back, you may end up with one any way or if you had come in on your own you may have had to have one.” I said, “I don’t know.” She proceeded to check me and said, “OK, I need to know what you want me to do.” I looked at John and told her, “Go ahead and break it.”

12:35 p.m.- Almost immediately I felt a huge change. Seriously intense pain like none I had ever felt. Since the Pitocin was turned up so high before, I was not getting a break between contractions and the peaks and valleys were almost equal. John asked the nurse, “Is that supposed to be like that?” meaning were the contractions supposed to be that intense and close together. Sheryl said, “Well, I can back it down a little bit, but I don’t want to do it too much because we want to keep progressing.” She turned it down a little so I was getting about 1-2 minutes of rest, if you can call it that, between contractions. The only way I was able to deal with the pain was by putting my right hand over my eyes and focusing just basically on the black. I was moaning a lot, sort of like sad sounding singing. I know it was hard for mother to watch, but I think it may have been harder for John. He looked pretty upset and teary. I knew just what he meant. It is hard to see someone you love in pain. Especially that intense, and there is nothing you can do to help except sit patiently by and hope the pain ends quickly. I really wasn’t sure how long I could deal with that kind of pain. I had to get up and go to the bathroom. What a treat while in hard labor, trying to potty while having three contractions, one on top of the other. I was waiting for the epidural.

2:15 p.m.- The anesthesiologist came in and let me get through a contraction before starting my epidural. He said, “You will feel a sting and then a burn.” He was right. I did. John and Sheryl were in front of me and my head was on John’s chest. The pain from it was very manageable. He then told me, “About 50% of girls do feel this and 50% do not. This may feel like you have hit your funny bone, only in one of your hips.” I said, “OH!” and he said, “You are in the 50% that do. Which hip?” and I told him my left. “He said is the feeling gone?” I said, “It’s going away.” He told me that was caused by the cathedar bumping into the derma, but it would not hurt anything.

2:35 p.m.- The contractions became much more manageable, and by 2:40 p.m., I could feel the pressure, but not the pain. Mother came back in the room, and shortly so did everyone else.

2:55 p.m.- John and I decided that it was time for me to rest for a while since I knew I would need to rest prior to pushing and they all went to the family waiting room. We shut the blinds and turned off the TV and I shut my eyes.

3:50 p.m.- I turned over (the best I could) and told John I felt like I needed to pee. He said, “Call the nurse,” so I did. Sheryl had left early, so now my nurse was Debbie. She came in and said, “Have you ever used a bed pan?” I said, “Not ‘til now.” John and Debbie had to help me because my left leg was completely numb and my right leg I could sort of control, but not fully. I got on to the bed pan and tried to go, but between John having to hold my leg and having an audience watching me, I couldn’t go. Debbie said, “I can give you a cath, but I don’t want to do too many because of the risk of infection.” She got the cathedar out and put it in and only got out about 100 cc’s, which I hear is not very much. Dr. Brown’s office called right then and Debbie said to tell them she would call them back. She said, “While I’m here, I might as well check you because I am sure that’s why they are calling.” She got rid of the cathedar and began to check me. She said, “I can’t feel your cervix.” John and I both thought that was bad because we know with an epidural, it can slow or stop your progress so we thought my cervix had gone back up. I guess one of us said, “Oh…” and she said, “No. I can’t feel it. It’s gone.” John said, “You mean she’s at 10 already?” and she said, “That’s why I’m still checking, but I’m just about sure…OK. I’ll call Dr. Brown. You’re ready to push. You are going to have this baby quickly.” I don’t know who was more surprised. John or me? Debbie went to call the Dr., and John went to tell our families. Debbie had me push nine times (through three contractions) and said, “Do you want to see?” to John. He went down to look and said, “Oh my goodness! She has a lot of hair!” Then Debbie said, “OK. Stop and I’ll get the doctor.”

4:10 p.m. Dr. Brown had come in, gotten in her scrubs and gloves and hat. Sat down and said, “OK, with this next contraction, let me see you push.” I did and she said, “Great. Keep going. Keep going. Good.” John told me my contractions never went below 30 and were peaking in the 60’s while I was pushing.

4:20 p.m.(approx.)- Dr. Brown did an episiotomy and thankfully, I didn’t feel it at all.

4:25 p.m.- Dr. Brown said, “OK. She is right where we want her. Push with your next contraction.” I pushed three times with that one and she said, “Here comes her head. Great. Now, with this next contraction, push but not so hard.” I looked down and saw her head and said, “Look at that!” I pushed with the next contraction and out she came at 4:28 p.m. Beautiful. Absolutely amazing. John was crying. Lauren was crying. I was amazed. I was crying when they took her to clean her up.


Saturday, April 03, 2004

My, my how time does fly!

One year ago today I was SCARED!! I don't mean a little apprehensive, I mean, I was sure labor and delivery was going to kill me. My friend had just had a baby on April 1 and she was still alive, but that was little assurance as to how my sweet little girl would enter the world. I worried all day. I might as well not have even gone to work because I wasn't really there. One little boy said, "Boy Miss Jennifer, your stomach is really big. When's that baby coming out?" "Soon. And then I'll bring her in to visit you OK?" All I could really think was, "...if I live so long."
I know it sounds dramatic, but if you know me, you're not that surprised.
Truthfully, that morning I didn't know tomorrow would be the day. I had a drs. appointment at 3:00 p.m. and she said, "If you want to do it tomorrow, I'll have orders at the front desk for you at 6:00 a.m., or we can wait and see what happens." My mother and sister were with me when I made my decision to "do it tomorrow." WHAT?? TOMORROW IS ONLY HOURS AWAY!! THERE'S NO WAY I'M GOING TO BE ABLE TO DO THIS!!! Too late. I had no choice. No turning back.
I was scared and excited and unsure and nervous and scared and anxious and scared and excited.
We didn't sleep that night, I'm not even sure why we tried. But we were both awake long before my alarm went off. My sister played all of our favorite music that next morning on our way to St. Mary's.
What a difference a year makes!!! I wouldn't change a thing.

Friday, April 02, 2004

Party, Party, Party!!!

I had no idea the prep that goes into having a party at your own home. I now understand why people rent out a space in which to party. Things that on an every day basis would not bother me much, now stick out like a sore thumb.
* dust
* dog/cat/Jennifer fur
* carpet fuzz, leaves dragged in from outside, lint, etc., etc., etc....
I realize that no one would probably notice these things but me, but I notice. I have been cleaning and enlisting help in that endevor for about a week. Even closets are getting it. Watch out John...
Maybe it's spring cleaning.
Maybe it nesting-come-lately. I didn't really "nest" last year at this time.
Maybe I'm just a freak.
Or maybe I'm the mother of an almost one-year old and don't know what else to do with myself.

Thursday, April 01, 2004

It's coming...

The big birthday. The one we've been watching, waiting for, wondering how it was possible a year can go so fast. Now it is 3 days away. The cake mix is bought (both of them. One for her, one for us), the ice cream is in the freezer, the decorations are starting to take over as are the gifts. Thanks to some help yesterday, all of the presents are now wrapped and ready for ripping. Just tissue paper this time since that is what she seemed to like best at Christmas. Now all we have to do is wait for party time. 2:00 Sunday afternoon. Amamzing!!

Monday, March 29, 2004

Dirty

Our little girl was actually dirty for the first time this weekend. I know it is the first of many times that her hands will be black and her knees will be crusty. Until now, she was "dirty" under her chin from formula, on her bottom from, well, you know what, or on her face and arms from whatever food she was eating. The kind of dirt I am now talking about is actual DIRT. I cleaned her off with a wet wipe before she sat in her car seat. I wonder how long that will last. I bet not long. John is not a fan of his "little girl" getting dirty but I assured him that for about the next 15 years she would be dirty and to get used to it. I know what he means though. The thought of scraped knees and elbows, bumps on the head, dirt in the mouth. None of those thoughts thrill me either and I too want to protect her, but here comes the dirty finger nails, dirt in her hair and ears, stains on clothes from grass and very little we can do to stop the growing up process. Not that we want to entirely, but here comes a new stage again and just when we were trying to get used to the fact that age one is fast approaching.

Tuesday, March 23, 2004

The miracle of the sippy cup

Just a few days ago, the sippy cup was a big mystery. Now, Lauren is using it like a pro. Tipping it up and everything! When did it click? When did drinking start making sense? I just need to get used to the fact that she is growing up. One more thing, I am glad they don't spill. At least not much...

Monday, March 22, 2004

30 something

I always wondered what it felt like to be 30 and now I know. Not much different than 29 honestly. These are my thoughts: I have a wonderful family, handsome husband who is a great and loving daddy, handsome father, beautiful mother, gorgeous and "famous" sister who makes me laugh EVERYDAY and two wonderful brothers-in-law, a truly happy marriage, a beautiful, healthy, funny, awesome baby girl, a job that doesn't make me cry, a cute dog, fat cat, nice house, good health, great friends all over the country-side, plenty of food, drink and merriment to go around, a cell phone that doesn't let me down very often, "new" coke, pasta, dedicated readers of my blog and 60 or so years to go enjoying those things.
Life is good and getting better everyday.
Keep looking up, the best is yet to come.

Friday, March 19, 2004

OK. So I lied...

I thought I was done shopping, but apparently I was, until now, unaware of the pull that one-year toys have on parents. Books, clothes, puzzles etc. It's like a sickness. Truly. I am now done and will only be buying Christmas presents from now until December.
Unless...

Tuesday, March 16, 2004

Pictures/18 days and counting

Today Lauren and Daisie had pictures made and let me assure you, pictures went SO MUCH BETTER this time. Daisie doesn't like pictures in BIG studios. Private ones are fine. She did very well today at Sears. It is very hard to believe the girls are about to be 1. How?
Birthday shopping is getting out of hand. There are so many neat things and I am trying to not buy everything lest I leave no gifts for anyone else to give. I am done shopping. Since I put it in black and white, I must mean it. Maybe...

Saturday, March 13, 2004

Meltdown...

Today we had our first public meltdown. We were at the store and Lauren, clever little devil that she is, decided that chewing on the strap, ment to hold in a baby, was the ideal chew-toy. (Kinda' makes her sound like a puppy. Sorry.) I disagreed. When I took it out of her hand the first time, I got an irritated grunt in return. As I did the second and third times. By the fourth time, I decided to unbuckle her, fasten the straps where she could not reach them and continue shopping. Little did I know that this was the breaking point for my normally wonderful shopper. She WAILED!! and Wailed and wailed!! I always wondered if parents were even the slightest bit concerned by what other shoppers think. Trust me. They are. But what do you do? I gave her something else to play with and all was well.
Truth be told, the meltdown was just a warm up for what is to come, but I will hopefully be ready...

Thursday, March 11, 2004

Books & DVDs

Besides the standard "Good Night Moon" and "Monster at the End of this Book", we have started to read some others on a more regular basis. "What Floats", "Who Lives in the Pond" and "Water, Water Everywhere" all by Baby Einstein. She wants them read over and over and over. She smiles and talks and waits for you to read them again and again. I know I am repeating myself, but I am getting used to it. I am getting used to it. Also, she has a favorite DVD. Couch tate tot from the beginning. She likes Baby Galileo. She smiles and stops to watch the WHOLE thing. Amazing...

Saturday, March 06, 2004

Scary!!

The little barrettes that people put in babies hair are DANGEROUS! I am talking about the barrettes that are metal and shaped with one end wider than the other and they snap and bend closed. Speaking as someone who now has experience having to beat a child on the back to make her breathe, two times in fact to get her to make any type of noise, made her spit up and then realized she choked on something I put in her hair. I am telling you, the barrettes are cute but so not worth a trip to the ER with a hysterical mother (that would be me). She had to have a chest x-ray to be sure the barrette was not in her lungs. I didn't even realize that was a possibility. I am glad I called the pediatrician. Although, before I talked to the nurse there, I was a lot calmer. John had to come home from work. I hope nothing like that ever happens again. I know it will, but a mom can dream can't she? The worst part, but really the best part; she was sitting in my lap when it happened. She just got really stiff and I looked at her and that's how I found out. What if she had been down the hall? What if...

Thursday, March 04, 2004

How amazing!

I can ask Lauren where my nose is and she points to it, she says, "Itty" and "Oggy" (or what I imagine that's what she says) when the cat and dog walk into the room, mama and dada are also common. This little person who grew inside of me is now her own person. WOW!!! Walking won't be far behind then there will be no stopping her. Like there is stopping her now.
She is so fast and strong willed. The other day, she was beating the cat and I said, "Lauren stop hitting the cat." She looked straight at me and did it again. John said, "Lauren NO!" She burst into tears. That was the first of many times. Seriously, she had the saddest look on her face. I promise I will try to not let that sad face sway my discipline efforts, but seriously. Who teaches babies to cry so sorrowfully? Tugs at the heart strings I tell 'ya!

Tuesday, March 02, 2004

Baby "food"...

No matter how much I try to clean, pick up "stuff", and keep Lauren safe, she finds EVERYTHING and promptly puts it in her mouth. Leaves, sticks, fuzzies, fur, hair, pens, cords, the cat... EVERYTHING!!! I knew that would happen, I didn't know however how angry it would make her to retrieve the items out of her mouth.
That leads me to stress about our upcoming dental appointment in just a few months. June to be exact. Unless the dentist has some sort of magical trick, I have no idea how he will get her to open her mouth for a cleaning and flouride treatment. I bet I will be a very important part of that. I am not looking forward to holding her down for the appointment. John holds her for vaccines. Maybe I can get him to go to the dentist as well...

Sunday, February 29, 2004

RANT ABOUT A RESTAURANT...
Warning: This may be lengthy and has little to nothing to do with Lauren. Read at your own risk.

While out to dinner on Friday night with John, Lauren and Rebecca, the most odd things happened. We were asked to wait about 5 minutes while a table was cleared, which was fine because who doesn't want a clean table? There was another party right behind us with four adults and a baby about Lauren's age. When we sat down, our waitress took our drink orders and said that they were short staffed so she was sorry things were taking a while. We ordered and got our appetizers within about 10 or 15 minutes after we ordered. Not too bad. The table next to us said they had to wait a while for food as well, but they were eating. After 45 minutes of waiting, Lauren needed changed. We went to the restroom where there was not a changing station. When we got back to the table we had our food and so did the table next to us who came in about 10 minutes after us. The party that came in behind us with the baby still had no food. I really didn't notice because I was too busy noticing our food was old. We didn't complain to the waitress simply because of how long it took to get our food in the first place and Lauren was loosing patience. I don't blame her. A man from the party with no food got up and went to the kitchen window where the cook/dishwasher, I'm not sure which, promptly told the man to go sit down. A minute or two later, their food came out. The man must have said something to the effect of "we should not have to pay for this", which I tend to agree with. The waitress must have repeated this in front of the cook/dishwasher. He then came out of the kitchen and said, "If you aren't going to pay for it, then just don't eat it. There are orders in front of yours and we are really busy tonight." So? He then returned to the kitchen. One of the women at the table told the waitress that they had ordered fries not chips. The waitress apologised and said maybe she could get them free dessert or something. Everyone in the dining room was mumbling about poor customer service and how ridiculous the way that the c/d had treated that customer. The c/d then returned and said, "I don't know what your problem is. We are really busy. There are orders ahead of yours". The customer said, "That table came in after us and they already have their food." The c/d said, "Well, maybe they ordered something different than you did. I don't know." Anyway, the customer handed the c/d his plate and got up to go. When the customer tried to walk around the c/d, the c/d backed up on purpose and the the customer couldn't get around. Since they bumped into one another, the c/d dropped a couple of plates. The c/d then said, "See what happens when people get mad?" The woman at the table with the baby said, "I'm going to take my baby and go." To which the c/d said, "I wish you would."
Ass.
The c/d never even took in to consideration that there were also other children in the room. Including Lauren, four other children and then the baby at the table. Family dining? I don't think so.
I had never seen anything so blantly rude and unnecessary. What happened to the customer being right? Anyway, we were not sure we would ever go back anyway and then it happened. Mother called about an hour later and said a woman who works there called her and said we had paid the wrong ticket and therefore we had under paid. Our total was $45.91 with tip we paid $60. We ordered 3 cokes, a pound of pork, a 3 appetizer platter, 2 orders of potato skins, 1 order of mushrooms, 1 house salad, 1 order of mushrooms caps, and a grilled cheese. I thought the ticket seemed right. WRONG! We ended up paying the ticket for the table with the problem. Our total was $64.13. WHAT???? I told them to take it out of the tip and I was not paying the additional $4.13 for their mistake. They were lucky we weren't complaining about how long it took to get our food and that it was old when we got it. I assured her that there was not to be another charge on my card. She assured me that their wouldn't. I will be watching my statement. What if the woman had not known who we were? She wouldn't have been able to call us. I was ticked and so was John.
I didn't include the name of the restaurant here, but if you e-mail me, I'll tell you the name. It is in Princeton on south Main St.

Thursday, February 26, 2004

Baby Einstein

If there is a baby in your life that needs entertaining, I highly recommend these videos. They calm even the savage beast of a teething almost-eleven month old. She stood for 13 minutes in front of the TV, then she crawled over to me and sat in my lap for the rest of the video. Baby Galileo. GENIUS!! I don't know if there is a "baby whistle" like a dog whistle that keeps her attention, but there is something. Props to Baby Einstein. They are a disney company. That probably explains it.
38 days until she is 1 year old. How is that possible?

Tuesday, February 24, 2004

So...
Sleeping is not going so well. We tried the "let her cry a little bit and then go in and reassure her, sit next to her and she will go to sleep." That is not true for our child. She cried until she almost vomited twice and when I finally did pick her up after probably 20 minutes, it took almost 25 minutes to calm her down. That sucked. Won't do that again for a while.
A trusted friend recommended limiting her naps after 4 or 5 o'clock. We'll give it a shot. I don't know how well it will work. I think she said we should try giving it a month. That is how long it takes to establish a habit. She is fairly educated so I feel like we should at least try.
John and I are a lot like walking zombies. Lauren is well rested after sleeping side-ways in our bed for almost the last two weeks. Now, before my mailbox is bombarded with "the dangers of babies in adult beds", fear not. I don't actually sleep when she is there. We do put her to bed in her own bed, but the last three nights at 3:03 a.m., WAH!! WAH!! How do I reset her internal clock? Push two buttons at once like on a watch? Change her time zones? How?
She is still the light of our lives and growing so fast. Will it ever slow down?

Saturday, February 21, 2004

The mystery of naps

Yesterday: 5 1/2 hours worth of naps.
Today: 1 1/2 hours worth of naps.

????????????????

I think that if she is sleepy I should let her sleep AND last night she was awake for about 20 minutes once and when she got up again, I took her to bed and I had to wake her this morning to leave for a loan closing. It just makes no sense to me. There is no rhyme or reason to sleep and babies. A fact I knew before, but now I really understand. Sleep is something I miss. Don't get me wrong, I'm not missing sleep all together. I just miss 7 solid hours of sleep, or at least the opportunity to try. I think that before I had Lauren and said I was tired or sleep, I was just being a wus. Now I know what those word really mean.
I have been advised to sleep when she sleeps. I have a problem convincing myself though. I have always had trouble sleeping at night if I slept during the day. Maybe that was then and this is now so I should possibly try it. I might actually like being able to be a fully functioning adult again.
Have I mentioned lately how much I love Lauren? She is amazing, beautiful, funny, charming, sweet and completely kissable. She is all around my favorite thing in the entire world and up until now, chocolate and coke were very high on that list. She blows them out of the water. Now, understand that I love the rest of my family unconditionally, but there is no love in the entire world like the love for your child. Nothing compares...

Friday, February 20, 2004

Better sleep, sorta'...

Last night Lauren went to sleep OK, however, after 30 very short minutes in her own bed, she awakened screaming! I put her next to me and she went to sleep right away. Slept all night with her foot in my back, but she slept. Everything I have read says that she should be sleeping 11 hours a night and 3 1/2 a day. Yeah, right! We average 8 hours a night and 3 during the day. She is growing great, happy when she is awake and rarely looks sleep deprived. I guess she's OK.
Thanks to all of our family for the recent help watching Lauren for work or fun!! We really appreciate it!
Keep your fingers crossed thar all goes well with the AT&T/Cingular buy out. We've been here before. Happy thoughts...:)

Monday, February 16, 2004

It's 4:30 in the A.M. hour...

Early. That's when Lauren has been getting up since I got back from Chicago. Why did she sleep until 6:45 for John and not for me? He says sleeping dust, I say pure dumb luck. I don't know how to get her to sleep longer or where my baby who slept until 7:15 on a REGULAR basis went. Any ideas?
Oprah update:
I saw my elbow two or three times and the back of my head once. I also saw myself as a small speck in a long shot across the studio. I really want to go back sometime. Maybe I'll try to go next time when John can go too. I think it was a really neat experience. Maybe we could go to the Christmas show. Wouldn't that be great? $5,000 worth of free stuff last Christmas. I think I could handle that.
More later...

Saturday, February 14, 2004

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Having said that, let me tell you about the whirlwind trip to Chicago. My mother and I left Thursday afternoon and got to Chicago by about 9:00 p.m. We got a SWEET deal on a hotel room at the Palmer House in downtown, ate dinner at The Big Downtown (a restaurant in the hotel), got back to the room and there was a voice mail message. It was room service. John had called the hotel while we were at dinner and ordered dessert to be sent to our room. It was snicker cheesecake and six cookies. Delicious and such a surprise.
The next morning, we got up at 6:00, left the hotel about 7:20 and arrived at Harpo Studios about 7:35. It was cold outside but thankfully, we got there after the doors open, so we waited inside. We went through the security check, waited a while then went to the studio, waited a while, Oprah came out, we taped the show, which will be on Monday, and when it was over, we got a bag of goodies, 2 actually, picked up our shirts and waited for a cab. Then it was back to the hotel to pick up our bags, get the truck and head back to Indiana. All in all it was a great trip, cold, but wonderful. Very surreal. Seeing celebrities in person is very odd.
I was very glad to see Lauren and John.
Don't forget to watch Oprah's PopStar Challenge on Monday and look for mother and me. OH! And don't forget to vote at oprah.com for your favorite finalist after the show.
More later...

Wednesday, February 11, 2004

Chicago here we come!

Well, it took what seems like an eternity for Shavaughn to call me back, but she finally did and mother and I are headed out for Chicago tomorrow afternoon. Yay!!!
How can I leave Lauren even if only for one night? I hope she cooperates with John. If only I were a fly on the wall...
More later...
WE DID IT!!

For those of you following along, I am referring to sleep. We did it! The whole night once again. We've done it before, and will hopefully continue. How exciting!!

NEWS FLASH:
I might have gotten tickets to go to the Oprah Winfrey Show. I'll let you know once I know for sure. What this means is my first over night without Lauren. That also means John's first night alone all night with Lauren. I'm sure they will be fine. Not so sure about me. However, it's just one night. Less than 24 hours. I'm sure I will call John mulitple times during the trip. That's what wireless phones are for right?

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Sleeping, sleeping

Do you see a pattern in my posts? I am starting to. We slept most of the night. All but 45 little minutes. Didn't feel so little at 1:15 a.m., but hey, I promised to try. And try I will.

Today we are trying something new. We are going to go to the pool. It's indoor, don't worry. I'll keep you posted on how it goes. She loves bath time, therefore I have very high hopes for the pool. She has a sweet little two piece swimming suit with lady bugs on it so the camera will also be going to the pool. I will send out pictures if any are good.

Monday, February 09, 2004

Sleep, glorious sleep

Just when Lauren was back on a good schedule, John and I had to go and mess with it by leaving town for the weekend. As previously stated, if you mess with a babies schedule you've done it to yourself. Last night was pay back for messing with her schedule. SEVEN times awakening. SEVEN. That is a huge number of awake times. Tonight will be better. Tomorrow will hopefully be back to normal.
****************************************
Picture day

Today is picture day and I have no idea what she will wear. Maybe a diaper. Why not? We have plenty of them, they are very natural and I know that they fit. Perhaps I should have a fall back plan of clothes, but what fun would that be? Any way, say cheese...

Wednesday, February 04, 2004

Reading group at the library

We went to reading group today and I really watched Lauren from a "distance" and this is what I think. I think that the last ten months have been so fast that I don't know how much faster time can go. I also know that for every year I have lived, time speeds up. And speeds up and speeds up. Therefore, she will be graduating before I know it. Why? Why can't she stay small just a little while longer? I know I can't wish time to slow down, so I will do what I can to enjoy every day of her pulling up, smiling, crying, waking at night and try to be patient even when patience is the last thing on my mind. I will try to remember that sweet breath on my neck while she is sleeping on my shoulder when she is wailing because she doesn't get her way. I will try to remember the sweet kisses I get when she is screaming for no apparent reason. I will also try to remember that she is her own person and I am trying to rear her to have an opinion and express it even if it is different than mine. I will try.

Sunday, February 01, 2004

Naptime

I don't understand the mystery surrounding naps and babies. Why fight naps? I certainly wouldn't if I were offered one. I have often heard that you go through stages with naps:
1. You need one but don't want one
2. You want one but can't have one
3. You take one but can't remember taking one, therefore you take another
Am I right? I think so. Still, napping is good for Lauren and for me. She gets rest, I get some other things done, and occationally I get to post to my blog and read e-mails. Naps are great. They also make Lauren A LOT more fun to play with since she is rested. I love naps, but not as much as I love her.

Friday, January 30, 2004

The light at the end of the tunnel is...the SUN!

We finally slept a couple of nights through!! Yeah! I think we might make it now. What all of those parenting books fail to tell you is about how "drugs" may affect you child. Sleepiness, sleeplessness, marked drowsiness, excitability, on and on and on...AND what I had never thought about (yes, there is something else I hadn't thought about) is just that just because a medicine makes ME sleepy doesn't mean it will make her sleepy in the least. It's true. My child falls into the sleeplessness, excitability catagory. FUN!!!

Onto bigger things, "...by nine months, your child may begin to protest when a favorite toy is taken from them." May begin to protest? I say WILL begin to protest. And loudly I might add. I had hopes that Lauren would have an opinion, and I got my wish. I really don't mind, but I have to be careful to not laugh. I know it sounds mean, but I have to look at her reaction with a slight bit of humor in order to keep my sense of humor in check. She doesn't really want to beat me. Does she???

Wednesday, January 28, 2004

Rock and Roll all night...

Again last night, we were awake for HOURS on end. Seriously, I need some sleep and frankly so does she. I have talked to several other mothers who have all suggested "letting her cry it out." I just don't know if I can do that. Hearing her cry literally hurts me. I feel it in my chest.

I have decided to revert to napping when she does. Whatever works...

If you have any suggestions, please e-mail me. If you are reading this, you have my address.

Monday, January 26, 2004

Coughing, coughing all through the night...

Last night Lauren coughed a lot leading me to call the doctor today. I don't care if I am an overprotective first time mom, we have a co-pay for a reason. I'm sure she's fine, but why risk it.

We are covered in ice and not planning to leave the house unless we are just going stir-crazy, which as this point won't take too long now...

Saturday, January 24, 2004

Standing UP

I never knew that standing up and falling down could be so much fun or cause so many giggles. Apparently, I was misinformed. Lauren has started doing this, thankfully only on the bed, but I am waiting for when it happens on the floor.

Just seconds ago, I was watching her from across the room and she stood all alone for 30+ seconds. Won't be long now until nothing is safe.

I think we're ready. We'll soon find out...

Thursday, January 22, 2004

Baby it's cold outside...

Coats and babies DO NOT mix. They are bulky and not car seat friendly. I also feel like a horrible mom when I take her out without a coat but rather than stand outside in the cold, I opt for the blanket route. With a hat of course. However, I don't know what to do. Coat or no coat? You make the call.

Sunday, January 18, 2004

On the road again...

Well, we went to Bloomington this weekend and had lots of fun, bought lots of stuff and slept very little. Babies are creatures of habit and when you upset their routine, well, you've done it to yourself. Lauren was very good considering that she napped in the car, and the stroller and slept nights in a pack n play.

I think that traveling will always be a part of Lauren's life, so it is a good thing we started her young. So young in fact that she was not even a week old for her first over-night with us. The next week, we went out of state. No, we are not entirely crazy, we just had not had that much time off since college and probably won't again until baby number 2 comes in 3 or 4 years.

Regardless, on the road again we will be shortly I'm sure. We love our life. We love Lauren more. We hope she loves traveling.

More later...

Monday, January 12, 2004

Up, Up and Up Further...

Who knew we had our very own mountain goat? And all this time I thought she was just a beautiful baby girl. What do I mean? I didn't know she could climb stairs but guess what? She can. She did. She will do it again I guarantee it.

From what I understand, my husband and I were both climbers. Guess she will be too. Up 8 stairs and would have gone all the way if we let her. We did not. Yet she tries and tries again...

Standing is also something new. I don't mean pulling up. I mean, if you stand her in the middle of the room, she will stand there and look at you as if to say, "Now what?" All too soon, she will know the answer to that question.

Saturday, January 10, 2004

OK. Since Lauren was born, I've had the sniffles, not felt "good", and been tired. However, the stomach flu was not something I had even considered. Without a baby, the stomach flu sucks. WITH a baby the stomach flu REALLY S U C K S!!!!!! She doesn't know how bad I feel, nor does she have the ability to make me feel physically better. What does make me feel better is that sweet little smile and giggles and momentarily, I forget my stomach and remember just how much I love her. Sappy I know, but entirely true.

Wednesday, January 07, 2004

Well let me tell you what. Lauren is a ball of fire. She is so much fun to be with. She is developing a temper however, when she is told no. She also DOES NOT like to have anything taken from her. If she claims something is hers, it's hers. If it's a comb, a sock, a dog toy, if her hand is on it, it's HERS. Just ask her.
I never knew how much I could love someone. She is teaching me that every day. Every day I love her more. Every day she teaches me something new. She is amazing...
We are having company tomorrow. Hopefully Lauren will share her toys. Only time will tell.

Thursday, January 01, 2004

Well, Happy New Year!! Hope you had a good holiday season. Another one gone and another one yet to come in just a few short weeks. You laugh, but you know it's true.

The baby is trying to walk more every day. Today she walked from one recliner to another, to my knee, to the table and then went to hands and knees crawling. It won't be long now...

I started taking ornaments off of the tree today and also got all of the lights off, now all that is left is taking down the tree. That will happen over the next few days while she is sleeping. I think she enjoyed her first Christmas. She is starting to expand her favorite toys. The favorites have gone from squeeky bug and rattle duck to a host of Leap Frog toys and a pot and pan.

More later...