The Philosopher's Wife

It's 1 AM and I'm Awake

2012-02-01T01:18:00.000-06:00

My nights as of late have been so mixed up. Last night I had evening duty while Tim rested in preparation for class and tonight's my night off and here I am blogging at 1 AM because I can't sleep. Hubby's asleep, baby's asleep, why not me? I have no idea. Am I coming down with the cold Sammy has had since Saturday evening? Is it work? My new schedule?

When Sammy cries, I get an adrenaline rush that sometimes is hard to get over. That's all I can think of. I don't even think I can write a blog of much value at this point but I so rarely have the opportunity, I thought, why not? I'm awake. Might be amusing to read later on (or not!)

So my son continues to teeth, I have no idea where all these teeth are coming from. Poor little guy has seven through the gum line and started excessively drooling the past two days, a dead give away that more are on their way. Then add in little man's second cold for the winter and it's hard for him to get a good night's sleep. (Although he's getting better zzz's than his Momma as of present).

Tim's class is going well and I'm enjoying the extra time with Sammy. Our pastor has mentioned a number of times that the first year as a parent is far more difficult than the adjustments of the first year of marriage. I would have to agree. Not that Sammy has been difficult, it's just such a huge life change! Nine months later and my son is three times what he once was and my little baby looks more like a toddler and I realize how quickly the time has passed. Just this week Sammy has started to clap his hands and will play catch with a rattle ball Racine made for him. So neat!

Ok, I think I'm going to have to recruit my hubby to try to give this exhausted Momma a back rub or I'm going to be a wreck in the morning. Hopefully I can get some sleep.

9 Months: Rolling, Babbling & Teething

2012-01-22T21:29:00.003-06:00

Yup, that's one - two -
three - four bottom teeth!

Today Sammy turned 9 months old. Little man mastered the art of rolling! He can roll from both his tummy to his back and vice versa. He also loves to scoot, so you have to keep an eye on him! The last time my parents were down a few weeks before Christmas they brought a walker and he has loved exploring every crook and crevice in the house. It's amazing how he has learned to back up, turn and drive that thing in such a short amount of time. He is eager to crawl, but so far has only figured out a few scoots backwards.

Sammy loves to babble! From the moment he wakes up to the time he goes down every night, this guys sharing his thoughts with us. He says things like "dada", "baba", and "momma" but doesn't realize the connection, so no first words yet! We've had some random Texas winter weather so a few rounds at the park this week have been a refreshing change from being stuck indoors for buddy boy who loves anyone who will push him in the swing at the park.

Top two teeth are in -
one more about to cut through any day now

Thursday morning Sammy went to the sitters for the first time and did great! He didn't cry when I left and his fan club (Cass and Lis) loved having him over as their adopted baby Sammy. I even got a freshly baked scone out of the deal and the peace of mind that Sammy was with close friends and getting to play with other kiddos on a regular basis. My Tuesday morning gig starts this week, so I'm pretty excited about my new schedule!

Teething pains are not easy for such a young one to deal with. We use orajel, Tylenol and teething tablets on a regular basis but he does not like anything cold so no ice chips, no teething toys (except good ole Sophie to the rescue) to bring him relief. Teething is a difficult phase on parents, our kids put us to shame with their sweet innocence and lack of memory when it comes to all-nighters like we've experienced. Many times Tim and I won't even really remember that well, maybe one of God's strategies to blur certain things to ensure we don't become bitter toward our child for things that are out of their control. Sammy's a little trooper! Hang in there little man, you're doing great.

Since Sammy began teething everyone has been asking me how nursing is going. Obviously he's learning that his gumline is not what it once was, but he has never tried to chew on my "na-na's" like they were a teething toy. His appetite has gone down some just because of the discomfort, but I continue to offer and he continues to want it, so it's working out just fine. Obviously when a tooth cuts the gumline, it's very sharp so there's a little bit of concern when I offer, but if he did nip me, it wouldn't be anything intentional. He's always been very gentle with me, although as of late he has had a thing for digging his finger in my belly button. Goofy kid! Kids at this age are incredibly curious about anything and everything!

Sammy's 9 month stats - 25 lbs, 10 oz in weight, 30.5 inches in length (98% for both).

My Tuesday Morning Gig

2012-01-11T22:07:00.000-06:00

When we found out Tim would be teaching at Southwestern this spring we began to look in to a sitter for Sammy. Of course our good friends and neighbors the Roths were one of the first on the list and Aunt Racine gladly accepted the Thursday morning gig. Then we began phoning a few other ladies from the church for Tuesdays. We weren't able to recruit anyone and then it hit me -- I could do it. God's blessed me with a great job and flexible bosses, let's see if we can't work something out. Several conversations later I found myself glowing with delight, as I had found a new happy medium in my career and my home life at one of the sweetest stages in Sammy's development. I am so pleased that Tim will have the opportunity to teach again and be able add another university to his experience and that I will be able to hang out with my little man for the next 12 weeks. Hurray for my Tuesday morning gig, I'll start January 24th!

Turning Thirty

2012-01-07T21:22:00.001-06:00

Today, I turned thirty years old. I've been dreading this day for a few weeks now, but now that it's here it doesn't seem as bad as it sounds. I have had some coming of age moments this year. Pregnancy, childbirth and the rearing of a child.

First, I have found that I am more thoughtful in my nutrition and care for myself. Much credit goes to Tim, who's recently really gotten in to learning more about nutrition and is always looking for ways to engage and enlighten his wife along the way. For Christmas, Tim got me some topical magnesium gel. Magnesium is an incredibly important and valuable mineral many women lack! Your body needs it in order to absorb calcium, but it also balances calcium in your muscles. It's also important for relaxation! Because it helps with muscle relaxation, it helps you rest better and have more energy during the day because it enables you to rest. What new mom wouldn't benefit from that? I'm still a work in progress but I feel like I am gaining a little each day in this area as I continue to use the gel and Sammy finds his own rhythm and nighttime schedule. I am also taking a cod liver oil supplement to promote brain health for both me and Sammy. Some of the other items include vitamins B-6, B-12, C, and D along with my regular women's multi-vitamin.

After reading Nina Planck's Real Food for Mother and Baby: The Fertility Diet, Eating for Two and Baby's First Food, I am more intentional in eating fish three times a week and brought dairy back in to my diet since Sammy seems to be passed his tummy pains. I also found her personal stories on motherhood and nursing encouraging.

Just this week, a colleague asked if I had been doing something different with my hair and then Tim on a number of occasions has just turned to me and said, "Hunny, you look really pretty!" The shine in my hair I think is a result of the supplement and diet changes I have made and I love it. It's important to take time for yourself, even if it's five minutes of popping pills in the morning to start your day right.

Second and more importantly, I appreciate my parents more and have found my birthday is not just about me, but honoring them for their love, support and care for me over the years. Tim, Sammy and I got to Skype with my parents this evening and it was nice to be able to do something for them, knowing all that they've done for me. As a new parent, the past year has been an eye opening experience to the sacrifices parents make for their children. Mom and Dad, thanks for all you do and for being avid readers and followers of my blog. I love you!

I look forward to all the Lord has in store for me this coming year.

Dust in the Nursery

2012-01-02T21:32:00.002-06:00

My mother-in-law shared the following poem with me recently. Now that Sammy has recovered from his cold, he's making up for lost time nursing. For a three-day weekend, most of it was spent feeding Sammy. We kept it pretty low key for a second week in a row and I enjoyed the life of a baby -- play, naps and good food! Sammy has tried a few new foods including salmon, spinach and pinto beans. Since I had off today, I made a slow cooker chicken with carrots and potatoes. I got a Kindle 4 for Christmas and it's a breastfeeding mom's best friend! Those long naps spent in the rocker are well worth while for a snoozing buddy and a reading Momma. Sammy's at an age where he's easily distracted so page turning wasn't as easy to do with him. Now with the click of a button I'm able to continue reading and meet my baby's needs. Then when he's finished, I can enjoy the finer things in life like spending an hour making silly faces for my son's amusement.

Dust in the Nursery

(By Ruth Hulburt Hamilton & published in the Lady's HomeJournal in 1958 as "Song for a Fifth Child."

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth

empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
hang out the washing and butter the bread,
sew on a button and make up a bed.
Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She's up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I've grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue

(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping's not done and there's nothing for stew
and out in the yard there's a hullabaloo
but I'm playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren't his/her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,

for children grow up, as I've learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T22:09:00.004-06:00

After weeks of cold weather, Texas blue skies and temps in the 70's made it a great day for the park! Sammy and I are both fully recovered from our colds and loved the sunshine. We're ready to ring in the new year, welcome 2012!

Together This Christmas

2011-12-23T11:22:00.002-06:00

On my way home from the office yesterday, I stopped by our favorite bakery to get Tim some coffee cake and cheese pockets because my energy to cook this Christmas is zero to none. While I was in there, I heard a woman yelling at the clerk behind the counter. She had driven almost an hour's distance only to be disappointed because they didn't have a cinnamon swirl to her liking. With a sleepy kid in her one arm, she continued to share her frustration about what seemed like a special tradition for her family, but nothing at this point was going to make her happy. I reminded myself why I was there, to get something for a very exhausted hubby who's been trying to take care of his sick infant and wife. We'd had a tense moment in the middle of the evening and I was purchasing a peace offering. I wanted to offer another bakery that might meet the woman's needs that was a little closer to her, but she was out the door before I could say something. I looked at another woman in line and said, "It's just not worth it." And the woman responded to me saying, "I wish I could have that perspective." She then shared with me how her niece had yelled at her numerous times that morning because she hadn't done something right. It sounds like another family tradition that went wrong. I empathized with her and then shared a few encouraging words as I made my selections. Christmas isn't the easiest time of year for some families.

Today I picked up the phone and began cancelling the holiday plans I had so joyously made earlier this week. I was well and now I'm sick with a cold, Sammy too. We just can't get passed it and I don't want him out in the cold, it's just not worth it. But then, Tim reminded me that Sammy has both his Mommy and his Daddy around and that's what many kids wish they had and don't get. And I look at my son and he's the best Christmas gift a Mom could ask for. Together this Christmas, I look forward to watching movies together, finding contentment in singing a few quiet Christmas carols as a family and celebrating the birth of a Savior that died for me and all the shameful things I do. It will be a memorable time because it's not about the things we acquire, but our lives continuing to transform as our faith's and relationships grow.

I hope each of you find the deeper meaning in this Christmas holiday as we reflect on Christ's birth.

My Men on the Mend

2011-12-21T20:29:00.004-06:00

June

December

8 Months

2011-12-20T22:03:00.000-06:00

Thursday my little man will be eight months old. As I write this I hold in my arms a congested, sleepy baby who can't get comfortable because he has a runny nose and prefers being held upright vs. sleeping on his tummy. Sammy the red-nosed Buddy, isn't feeling very well. Being a first-time parent there's so many experiences you never anticipate. Today's highlight was split pea projectile vomit! Sure, I knew and have seen Sammy get sick, but that's a disturbing image for a mother to experience. My poor baby! Thankfully this Christmas will be a quiet one, just the three of us.

Sammy plays as intensely as his mother works. It's funny because folks at work have often commented to me how serious I can get at times when I'm focused on an assignment. It's not that I'm upset, I just get really passionate about accomplishing whatever it might be. Sammy's the same way with his toys. He gets really verbal too, another way of expressing his feelings. We think he's around 25 pounds and we've had to retire his swing, his bouncer, most of his wardrobe and later this week, his infant car seat. When my mother and I went out shopping the other week, it was difficult to find any onesies or PJ's that said "Baby's 1st Christmas" in the 18 to 24 month items. They assume this is round two for little folk in these sizes. When I have more time I will have to learn how to applique.

Sammy continues to explore in the realm of food! He loved pumpkin pancakes (made with goat's milk) and a bite of Mommy's french fry when we went out for hamburgers last Friday night. Pureed split peas were a hit until the above mentioned incident happened. At breakfast, Sammy can put away a whole banana!

Sammy loves dumping the shapes from his sorting bucket. He will sometimes even bang them together like cymbals! He also has enjoyed exploring the living room in his walker. My VeggieTales nativity set has made it's way in to Sammy's mouth, he loves to chew on King Larry. During festive occasions, Sammy Claus has been known to make an appearance. It's always fun to take Sammy out so others can enjoy his happy disposition. He gets more hellos from strangers than I ever would and finds it very easy to make new friends.

Little Heartbreaker's First Thanksgiving

2011-12-13T18:53:00.003-06:00

Muppet fun with Aunt Kara & Uncle Kenny

The Thanksgiving Pot Luck Spread

Daddy trims the Turkey

Unc Arlin holding Buddy Boy

Fossil Rim Adventures

Delivering A Little Joy

2011-12-12T22:50:00.001-06:00

Dear Grandpa, Thanks for teaching me how to growl! I've been practicing ever since you left.

Thanks Aunt Christy for my Santa hat. It fits!

Grandma, I love our tickle fights.

Thanks for delivering a little joy to our house this year.

P.S. Mommy & Daddy enjoyed their date night, thanks for taking care of me while they were out.

Love, Sammy Claus

Seven in a Half Months

2011-12-07T22:15:00.001-06:00

As of late, my favorite thing to do in the evening is hold my sleeping son in my arms. Many of my memories revolve around me holding my baby. I remember embracing him immediately after I gave birth to him. To this day, I'm really the only one that can get away with holding him inward (vs. his preferred view toward the world). Even though Sammy is a big boy for his age, when I hold him and he's snuggling with me, it's that o so familiar feeling that he's my little newborn all over again.

Being a working mom who nurses is lonely. I was encouraged when there were several of us, but as of late, I'm the only one using the Mommy room on a regular basis. I press on, but it's not easy. I have to be intentional in making the time or I would get caught up in my work. I pump to maintain what I have with Sammy, a bond that I wouldn't trade for the world. But let's face it, a pump will never do as good of a job as a baby.

Last Thursday evening I attended a ladies Christmas dinner held at my church. The speaker shared how God blessed her with an unlikely gift, a difficult disease. Her story really spoke to me because I could relate due to my infertility. What a wonderful way to start this holiday season, reflecting on the unlikely gifts of my life and how God has used them. I went home and stared at my baby boy, consumed once again by tears of joy. Thankful to return home and find my little sleeping someone in his crib. Any day we anticipate Sammy may start to crawl, leading us into the next phase of parenting with a little boy on the move.

Update

2011-12-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

The past month has been a busy one for us, thus the lack of blogging. We had Sammy's child dedication, Tim's little brother and wife visited during the Thanksgiving holiday and my parents arrive this Thursday for an extended weekend. This weekend we went and purchased our first live tree as a family and decorated it last night. The best way to show what we've been up to is with photographs, so I've uploaded some from the past month. Our little Buddy boy is growing so fast, he's really close to crawling, maybe by Christmas!

Here's the link http://picasaweb.google.com/dolchbug.

The Ph.D Candidate's Wife

2011-11-15T23:03:00.001-06:00

Well, today I am no longer just a philosopher's wife, I am a Ph.D candidate's wife. That's right, Tim passed his oral panel/exam today! Today God was glorified through my husband's good work. I can't imagine how excited he must have felt, walking with the dean of the graduate school across campus with his dissertation packet in his hands. Tim, I am so proud of you! I hope today is a memory you never forget should discouragement ever surface as you enter this final chapter of your education, preparing to write your Ph.D dissertation.

It Was A Ridiculously Huge Hat, But He Loved It

2011-11-08T21:21:00.001-06:00

I finally captured Sammy's two teeth in a photograph.
Aren't they cute?

He's pretty sleepy in this photo but he was really excited about his new hat.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:21:00.001-06:00

Fleece & Giggles

2011-10-30T20:35:00.000-06:00

Wow! What a Big Boy!

2011-10-25T09:00:00.003-05:00

Sammy's six month stats as of yesterday:
Weight: 21 lbs, 3 oz.
Length: 28 inches

Our response since his birth "Wow! What a big boy!"

I'm speechless every time. I think I gave birth to a small giant. His transformation has been amazing and dramatic. Our biggest challenge as parents seems to be keeping this boy clothed. What a small (big) miracle we're blessed with. Not sure whether Sammy will be a linebacker or a Navy seal, but God has great things in store for our little man.

Sammy's teething pains will probably continue through the rest of this week, poor guy! Hang in there. We love you, keep growing, but not too fast, ok? Well, I guess that's out of my control but God made you a cuddle bug so I'll enjoy your snuggles as long as you'll give them to me baby bear.

35 Pounds Lighter

2011-10-23T09:54:00.001-05:00

The past few weeks I haven't had the opportunity to jog or go to the gym, but taking care of Sammy while Tim was preparing for his comp exams was just as good for me, especially when Sammy is ~22 pounds of energetic love! I'm happy to announce I'm 35 pounds lighter and excited to recommit the next 10 weeks to preparing for my 30th birthday goals.

I took this picture this morning to capture my progress. I'm down to 145 but would like to try to lose another 10 before I'm where I feel like I should be for a healthy weight. Many ladies have told me that while things will never quite be the same as they were pre-baby, I need to realistically give myself a year before I feel like I've "regained" my body.

I'm so happy with my progress, I weigh less today than when I got pregnant with little man. What a great feeling! PCOS, this mother is fighting back!

Six Months

2011-10-22T19:28:00.000-05:00

Sammy, I cannot believe you are six months old. You are such a fun and curious boy. You are easily distracted, you love exploration. You are happiest when you are outdoors. You discovered your feet this month and eat your toes often.  Eating is still a favorite past time of yours, with tastes like acorn squash, green peas, carrots and your favorite, sweet potatoes. You're not as much of a grains fan, but willing to try things, like cream of rice and oatmeal.

Your Mommy made her goal in nursing you your first six months! You've come so far in such a short amount of time. You play on your tummy for a good amount of time and have begun to experience some of what it's like to roll, but not quite there yet.  You went to your first pumpkin patch today and had a fun time. This past week your two bottom front teeth surfaced the gum line. Not the most pleasant of experiences, but you handled them like a champ!

Often you can be found hanging out in the park swing or sitting on the front porch watching the cars pass by. Your Daddy and I are amused by your intensity when you play with your toys. Many times you will squeal at them playfully or with a deep rage or passion, and with the throw you have you might be a future pitcher or quarterback.

As I write this you're fast asleep in my arms.  I'm so proud of you and look forward to dedicating you to the Lord in November with your Daddy at church. We pray for you and are confident God has great things in store for you! We love you Buddy Bear!

Ribbon Fascination

2011-10-16T22:11:00.003-05:00

Searching long and hard at the toy store I was content with the following purchase. Colorful, lots of things to chew and Sammy loves when I hold it above him to bat at. Since little man cut his first lower tooth this week I thought he had earned it. Surrounded by a world of plastic, I was shocked how few toys had tags on them.

So, inspired by my son's new fascination, I'm going to venture in to toy making and see how I can incorporate ribbons and the fabric I have on hand. My crafting time has become rather non-existent so after Tim's comp exams this week I may have to schedule some time with my sewing machine to make this happen.

Roasted Acorn Squash Baby Food

2011-10-16T22:01:00.002-05:00

Same as pumpkin, acorn squash can be baked at 475 degrees for 40 mins - 1 hour

in pan with 1 inch of water.

Tip: Gently scoop out to avoid veins of squash in your baby food.

My favorite part -- mash 'em up!

Scoop in to ice cube trays for easy portion sizes.

Freeze with the other items.

Once frozen, remove and store in tupperwares for easy access.

Organic Sweet Peas Baby Food

2011-10-16T21:57:00.001-05:00

Purchase one can of organic sweet peas

Microwave 1-2 minutes; strain water.

Mash 'em in food processor.

Freeze in ice cube trays.

Roasted Pumpkin Baby Food

2011-10-16T21:54:00.001-05:00

Cut pumpkin in to halves and scoop out guts

Save seeds for roasting later.

Place halves upside down in 1 inch of water.
Bake 40 mins. - 1 hour at 375 degrees F.

Scoop out those yummy pumpkin guts.

Mash 'em in the food processor.

Make servings in ice cube trays & freeze!

Then Mommy & Daddy enjoyed eating the roasted seeds.

Love Them Lashes

2011-10-08T22:45:00.004-05:00

Brown Bear Buddy Boy

2011-10-08T22:39:00.001-05:00

This morning Sammy and I were on two missons. The first was to give Daddy some space so he could study, the second was to find Buddy Boy a halloween costume. Tim and I had a few things in mind, but I was pleasantly surprised when I found this gem at a local kid consignment shop for drum roll please....$9.00! I did a little research and original price would have been around $25-30 plus shipping if I had ordered online. It's in great condition, just needs to be washed and put a cute baby in there and we're good to go!

Then of course I came across Eric Carle's Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See? and had to get it. I've pretty much memorized the book over the years from Cassidy's love for it, but it seemed fitting Sammy should have a copy since he will need some help getting in to character.

Now I just have to use a spark of creativity to decide how to approach Tim & mine. Looks like Sammy will now also be known as a Buddy Brown Bear. The nub tail is super cute. Stay tuned for more photos. Hurray for holiday festivities!

Patio Playtime

2011-10-07T21:23:00.003-05:00

Sleeping Buddy Now vs. Buddy Newborn

2011-10-07T21:16:00.002-05:00

Buddy Now - 5 1/2 Months

Buddy Newborn - 3 Days Old

Buddy Now

Buddy Then

I will never tire of watching my Buddy Boy sleep.

Sleeping Buddy Profile - Artistic

2011-10-03T10:02:00.004-05:00

Sophie the Giraffe

2011-09-28T11:31:00.004-05:00

I had no idea that Sophie the Giraffe was a superstar teether, did you? A co-worker who knew I loved giraffes gave me a treasure that just today I realized is a teething gem! See website by clicking here. Sammy loves his Sophie. Now I will appreciate her more knowing her history and why she is the way she is. Too cool!

The Last Week of September

2011-09-28T09:15:00.006-05:00

It seems like good things have always been in the works the last week of September...
In 2008, I attended a special baby shower for family and close friends for the beautiful new mama Lydia! Probably the sweetest baby shower to date that I've been fortunate to participate in, other than my own.
In 2009, my hubby was presenting his first paper
In 2010, we were expecting, but Sammy was still our little secret.

This year, my evenings have consisted of baby toys, bath time splashes, and watching Sammy enjoy eating his sweet potatoe mush while Tim diligently studies for his upcoming comp exams.

Life After Dairy: 1st Month

2011-09-27T11:02:00.006-05:00

Surprisingly, this adjustment came at just the right time! I'm 30 pounds lighter. That's right, this past week I hit a weight loss goal. I splurged with a new hair cut.

Someone asked me how I was managing without dairy? When there are as many wonderful alternatives out there as I've found, the temptation to splurge has slowly faded away.

Today, I'm going out with some co-workers for lunch at a Mexican joint. I manage by reading the menu thoroughly and creatively troubleshooting for non-dairy alternatives (for example, tacos minus the cheese and sour cream). Here's to 1 month of healthy food choices!

A few of my favorite things:

1. Emerald Dark Chocolate Cocoa Roast Almonds

2. Sprouts' Coconut Bliss Frozen Bars, Dried Apricots & Bulk Granola

3. Boars Head Black Forest Ham Lunchmeat

4. Jamba Juice All Fruit Smoothies

5. Red, Hot & Blue's Brisket Meat (with their amazing dry spices)

6. Baked Potato with Fresh Avocado & Tomato (with pinch of salt/pepper)
7. Chipotle Burritos (meat, rice, black beans, lettuce & salsa)
8. Truvia Sweetner

What are some of your favorite healthy treats?

Working Mom Q&A

2011-09-23T09:00:00.019-05:00

1. Who takes care of Sammy during the day? Daddy day care. Usually if they're not familiar with my husband's PhD program, I provide a brief update on him having completed his coursework and pending his comp exams later next month (Oct. 18-19th). Yes, we are an unusual pair, but God calls each of us in our own ways. I am the primary care taker (financially) for my family.

2. Do you plan to put Sammy in the church's nursery? No, not really. As a Momma who works all week, I enjoy the time I'm able to spend with my son on the weekends. Sunday mornings are a chance for the two of us to have consistent one on one's while Daddy goes to worship early to play bass guitar. Sammy's nap schedule really only allows us to make it to the service, so I haven't really been able to attend SBF for awhile. Sammy also eats very frequently (every 2 hours) and many times I find myself nursing in the back row of the church. I think it's important that whenever I am around, that I'm able to be connected with my son. Plus, I pump all week, why would I even want to consider using bottles on the weekend?

3. How often do you pump and do you go home at lunch to see your men? I use my two breaks during the day to pump, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. At lunchtime I either pump if I'm staying at work or I go home and nurse. When Sammy was napping at lunch time we didn't see it necessary for me to go home, but now that he's gotten in to more of a routine of a morning and later afternoon napping time frame, I like that I work near my home so I can pop in, get my fix for the rest of the day and then head back to work. It's really the best of both worlds.

4. Is your husband currently teaching? No, he took a semester off to care for our son. Since we're new in the realm of parenting, we planned that the first year would be one of great adjustments and it would be easier if Tim could focus on Sammy and his reading. At first, caring for Sammy was all Tim could manage, but now that he's napping for several hours at a time Tim can read and help around the house. We also knew Tim would have to retake his comp exams this fall and would want to allow himself enough time to prepare. In the spring he is open to teaching one to two courses at UD if an opening becomes available. We have several friends that have offered to watch Sammy on an as-needed basis for an hour here or there, but we do not plan to use day care or MDO program at this time.

5. Do you have a Mommy's group you participate in? I do! There's a group of young moms in my church that meet on a monthly basis for a play date. We went to our first one in July and there's another one in the works for early October. They offer them on Saturdays since several of us are working Moms like me. I send a lot of emails because it's hard to call people when you're focused on caring for a little one. I love to hang out when I can with my down the street neighbor and friend Racine so we can talk about motherly and scholarly wife things. Sadly there is not a Le Leache League group that meets in the evening in Irving (just during the weekday) or I would totally go! Instead, I subscribe to numerous news feeds to stay current on the topic and I've come across some great information.

6. What BF items should working Moms invest in?

Every Momma needs her tote! My sister-in-law graciously let me borrow hers so there was no cost on my end, but I would recommend if borrowing from someone that you consider purchasing new accessory parts.
Medela BF Freezing & Storage Pack - I do no like the bags and it's easier for Tim to use these. I also have some of the 5 oz. bottles for the mornings when milk supply is more and I don't feel like changing out bottles while pumping. I use an organizer to store bottles in the fridge so Tim knows which ones he should use first. Fresh milk is good to store for up to eight days when refrigerated. My lunch bunch buddies at work would joke when we saw one of us with one of these that we were steaming broccoli.
Wear button down shirts or shirts that don't wrinkle easily.
Bottled water or a Brita pitcher - Make sure you're drinking water throughout the day. I drink a full glass of water 15 minutes prior to pumping to maximize my supply. Works when nursing too.

Other items that are nice to have, but not necessary include:

Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags - I was given some of these as gifts. They're nice and I used them until I ran out, but wasn't really interested in purchasing on my own. Flanges if refrigerated are ok to reuse for 24 hours, just like nipples for babies who are BF. I just boil everything in a pot of water on the stove once a day.
Hands Free Bras - I know a few ladies that use these but I don't take very long so I didn't find it a necessity to have, more like a nice to if someone was interested I mention.

Kellymom.com has a great section on their webiste on Milk expression tips and pump information.

5 Months

2011-09-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Go Redskins!

Tomorrow, my little man will be 5 months old. Sammy hasn't rolled over yet, but he's getting close. He has the strength to pivot from his right to his left side on his back to grab toys and can play for extended amounts of time up on his elbows on his tummy. Once the newborn who hated bath time, he's had a change of heart with the recent discovery that he can splash! Now bath time also serves as mop time, but that's ok. He reaches for his toes and one day will figure out how to pull those socks off his parents so faithfully put on him. He's very verbal! He loves to hear his own voice and speaks his own little language. He's sitting in a high chair and started solids a few weeks ago. So far we've introduced him to rice cereal and home made roasted carrots. Tim's thrilled that our son likes to watch football. His Aunt Kara and Uncle Kenny sent him a Redskins jersey before he was born and he sports it well. I love his fuzzy little hair that has come in over the past few months in addition to his baby hair (so soft). He likes to give kisses, but they are pretty slobbery. Another favorite past time is his fascination with Tim's face. We describe Sammy's behavior as "rearranging Daddy's face". He will try to make that nose move over by his chin and then move this eye over beside maybe this cheek, but somehow Tim's face doesn't maneuver like that, so Sammy presses on, hoping maybe the next time he will find success.

So Long Dairy!

2011-09-20T12:00:00.003-05:00

During a midweek gathering at my church four weeks ago, a good friend came and whispered something in my ear. She said, "Margie, my daughter's friend has been nursing and recently gave up dairy. Considering Sammy's sometime fussy moments, maybe this is something you, too, should consider for your baby." I thanked her and pondered her words the rest of the evening.  Tim and I began to question what we believed was just teething. Maybe there was something more to this...

I had experimented early on with a one week elimination diet and didn't really notice a change. But my friend mentioned that her daughter's friend did not experience the fruits of her labor until the fourteenth day and to stick with it. So, reminded of Tim's struggles as a baby as my mother-in-law has often described (he didn't sleep through the night for the first two years) I thought, let's give this another try. I would begin supplementing my dairy intake with calcium/magnesium pills and avoid all milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, butter, you name it.

My conclusion: so long dairy! At least while I'm nursing my son. Tim and I have noticed a huge improvement and we believe it's from this change. Sure, I miss ice cream and chocolate. But this isn't the first time I've given up something I enjoy for good reasons. In fact, I think it has helped me, along with my low-purine diet, to lose the weight that I have.   Tim has been very thoughtful and creative in coming up with alternatives to some of our favorite meals.  Watching what I eat has also lowered eating out spending and helped to boost our overall food budget. Again, there's a thoughtfulness that I appreciate in Tim's planning here and eating healthy can work, even on a budget.

So, my advice to nursing mothers would be to consider cutting dairy from their diet for at least a two week period if they think their son might be at all sensitive to it.  Sammy's still a baby and communicates by crying, but we believe this change has made him feel much more comfortable and wanted to share the tip for others who might be struggling in a similar way. He struggled with reflux for the first few months and then tummy/gas pains later on. So long bloating, Sammy rarely experiences this sort of discomfort now.

I'm so glad my friend pursued me in a loving and godly way. She helped to reinforce my mother-in-law's advice and allowed me the opportunity to consider trying again. As a new parent I have learned that what may or may not work one day may the next, so just hang in there and be open minded.

Note: If you decide to go this route, make sure you are consistently taking vitamins to supplement. The last thing you need as a Momma is to deplete your body of important nutrients.

Approaching 30

2011-09-16T13:39:00.005-05:00

In January I will be 30, but I think by the end of this month I may be hitting the 30 lb milestone in my weight loss. That's right, I'm down to 152 (28 lbs post baby). Approaching 30 couldn't get any better.

Totally off-topic but on my mind...my homemade roasted organic carrot baby food for Sammy turned out so good, I had a big spoonful myself. Yum, yum!

Exercising with Baby

2011-09-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

Last night Tim hit the books, so Sammy and I headed to the park.  Sure, I can push my son every where I go and benefit from exercise, but I wanted to find a way to incorporate him so we could interact more.  Taking advantage of my son's 20 pounds of love, I started to slowly lift him with my arms in the air in sets of ten. I would count aloud and smile at Sammy while he enjoyed taking in the beautiful scenery and the new perspective.

Then it was his turn!  I had him do a few stand/sits on my lap, but I wasn't really concerned with him meeting a specific number of repetitions. For him, it's just an opportunity to play with Mommy.  From my arms I transitioned to my legs and began to do lunges while holding little man. He loved the big slow drops.

At this stage in life, the early morning routine just wasn't working.  I need to sleep when my baby is sleeping. In addition, my husband needs me, too! Not that I wasn't helping before, but I need to have good energy levels in the evening so I can allow him the time to do what he needs to do as we continue to pursue his calling in higher education. For our family, this was a win-win situation!

Starting Solids: 4 1/2 Months

2011-09-11T17:35:00.002-05:00

Last Tuesday, Sammy weighed in at 19 lbs, 13 oz. (99%) with a height of 26 3/4 (94%) inches at his 4 month check-up. In speaking with Dr. B, he recommended we wait until 5 months before introducing solids, however, he realized we had a big boy on our hands and he might want it sooner. He told us if Sammy showed signs of hunger after nursing, we could consider introducing a single grain for a two week period and then add in some veggies. He was really impressed to see such a healthy, exclusively breastfed baby and gave me kudos for my commitment to nurse. Breast milk will remain his primary, but solids will serve as a secondary to aid him when he needs to be topped off. I have no plans to wean him of breast milk. I think our relationship has many months to go before he calls it quits for us.

Transformation: Day Nine

2011-09-09T15:31:00.004-05:00

Well, today I reached a personal milestone. After getting on the scales, I built up the nerve to try to fit into my pre-baby work clothes and it was a success! In fact, my one colleague told me I may need to go shopping because she thought they were a little lose. It was like music to my ears! I want to be healthy and feel good about myself again and I'm one step closer.

39 Weeks Pregnant
Weight: 180 pounds
Pant Size: Maternity

Last Week
Weight: 160 pounds
Pant Size: 12

Present
Weight: 155 pounds
Pant Size: 8

Goal
Weight: 140
Pant Size: 6

Splash Park Fun

2011-09-05T19:00:00.011-05:00

My parents were here for Labor Day so we decided to try out the Splash park with Sammy. Compared to his first swim, he loved the splash park. I think it's a little less intense and the water wasn't overly warm or cold. However, little man does NOT like to get his head wet, so we avoided the arched misters. Overall good experience -- he didn't cry and we got to try out the new swimsuit his Great Aunt Peggy had sent with shark shirt. The adventures of Buddy boy continue...

My Morning Transformation: Day Five

2011-08-29T08:19:00.001-05:00

4:45 AM -- Sammy woke up. Daddy changed his diaper and I attempted to try to nurse him back to sleep, but was unsuccessful again.
5:30 AM -- We buckled him in to the jogging stroller and off we went so Daddy could get a few more zzz's in before the day started.
6:15 AM -- My walking pace still was a good work out and Sammy was asleep by the time we got back. I put him back in his crib, had breakfast and got ready for my day.
7:20 AM -- Took the tollway to work, happy I was able to manage taking my baby with me to avoid interuption to my great streak of workouts including Sunday morning and evening this weekend!

Cowboy-Pirate Cousins

2011-08-28T18:00:00.002-05:00

Cort and Sammy met earlier this month while he was here with his parents for an extended weekend. Cort loved holding his baby cousin and Tim's "barn" out back. I arranged the train ride (photos seen in previous post) for him and he loved it! He described himself all weekend as a cowboy-pirate and loved playing with the ropes Tim used with the Cub Scouts for knot practice. He's not quite there yet with tying knots, but he loves to capture adults and make them horses and cows when given the opportunity.

Cort the cowboy at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Sammy's First Swim

2011-08-28T17:00:00.001-05:00

Saturday afternoon, we piled in the car and headed to Fort Worth! Visiting friends, we took Sammy for his first swim! His reaction -- a big pouty face! Too cute.

Compared to his usual bath time routine -- the Texas heat made this initial dip a little warmer than Sammy preferred so he wasn't in very long. Of course, the milestone made for a great photo op!

My Morning Transformation: Day Two

2011-08-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

3:45 AM -- Sammy woke up.  Daddy changed his diaper and I attempted to try to nurse him back to sleep, but was unsucessful.
4:30 AM -- We resorted to our back-up strategy of driving him around in the car to encourage him to go back to sleep.  Daddy agreed to do the drive and even filled up my gas tank so I could rest a few more moments.
5:15 AM -- I didn't really fall back to sleep, but resting my eyes helped. My alarm went off and I pumped my other side before heading out for my jog.  My men, fast asleep.
5:45 AM -- Jogged the same route as yesterday around the pond and back. My rhythmn and breathing improved.
6:15 AM -- Returned home, got ready for the day and sat down for breakfast, this time with my Bible. Focused my reading on Ezra 10 as I reflected on my pastor's sermon on the cycle of redemption on Wednesday evening (appauled - ashamed - humbled - hopeful - activity).
6:45 AM -- I ironed my clothes and prepared my pumping equipment the night prior so when Sammy woke up I was able to nurse him a second time! What a blessing to both of us.
7:05 AM -- Sammy didn't really fall back to sleep, but Daddy day care was ready to take over so I could finish getting ready.  Pumped.
7:20 AM -- Took the tollway while I drank another glass of water on the way in the car. I could really get used to this schedule! Still got 6 1/2 hours of uninterupted sleep, so I'm content.

My Morning Transformation: Day One

2011-08-25T09:25:00.005-05:00

5:00 AM -- I woke up feeling refreshed after having six hours of straight sleep. Walked in to the nursery and gently woke Sammy up, changed his diaper and put on a new outfit for the day and nursed him to sleep. Returned him to his crib and watched him return to a restful sleep.
5:30 AM -- Drank a glass of water and pumped other side, made Sammy a few frozen Soothie paci's for later in the day in case Daddy needs them (great teething tip from my sister-in-law).
5:45 AM -- Jogged from our house to the park nearby. It was still dark outside so I was guided by the street lights and the moon kept me company. I made my way around the small pond and then headed back home. Compared to previous jogs, my post-baby hips did not hurt. (Hurray!)
6:15 AM -- Returned home to find both of my men still peacefully asleep. Drank another glass of water and took my shower, ironed my clothes, and assembled Sammy's cloth diapers for the day for Daddy day care.
6:45 AM -- Prepared my breakfast which included: a quarter of freshly cut cantaloupe, a handful of blueberries, a small bowl of dry Cheerios, another glass of water followed by a half glass of pineapple-orange juice with my vitamins. I watched the stove as I sterilized a few items in a pot of boiling water.
7:00 AM -- Pumped once more before leaving the house, quietly kissed my hubby good-bye and watched Sammy sleep a few moments before heading out the door.
7:20 AM -- Took the tollway to give Mommy a few minutes to spare upon arriving to work. Drank another glass of water on the way in the car.

While I realize this was probably the most ideal morning, I was encouraged! Some mornings I may wake up exhausted because Sammy was up several times in the night or Sammy may not go back down and I have company during my morning exercises, but that's ok. I am not going to allow my bought with the "lazies" to keep me from using my mornings better! I prayed before I went to sleep last night that God would give me the grace to be obedient to the callings He has given me, no matter how the day may go. Circumstances happen and I'm ready for a heartfelt change in my life.

I will write a little more back story to what led me to this need for discipline at another time.

Run by Addison Road

2011-08-25T09:06:00.005-05:00

Stoplights, breakdown, we cry, last try / Worlds collide, time to decide / Where you want to go in this great big world / Where you want to go in this great big world

Stuck here too long in this sad song / Lost on a street, everyone has / Vanished and you're all alone / But you don't know where to go / Yeah you're all alone / And you want to go home

(CHORUS)
Run just as fast as you can / Run, 'til you reach the end / Where the fallen finally land / Your world starts over again / Run

Next page, new day, finding my way / Stumble upon the strength to move on / Cuz I am not alone in this great big world / And you are not alone in this great big world

Your free, free falling / A new beginning / This is our time

My 30th 10K

2011-08-24T12:58:00.008-05:00

Today I make the commitment to prepare to run a 10K on my 30th birthday. I will have a little less than 20 weeks to prepare to give myself the best gift there is, a healthy body!

Weight: 160 pounds
Pant Size: 12

I will return to the low-purine diet that helped me overcome my bought with Gout last May and what ultimately helped balance my PCOS insulin levels allowing me to get pregnant.

My support, my husband. My inspiration, my son. The idea, my friend.

A Choo Choo Family Excursion: Babies & Train Rides

2011-08-23T13:03:00.009-05:00

1. Train rides are a great way to engage your baby. Infants are interested in motion and color. It is not necessary to take an infant car seat, holding them safely in your lap is sufficient for an afternoon excursion.
2. Beat the heat with the proper supplies (hat, umbrella stroller, lightweight clothing). Make sure baby is hydrated with plenty of liquids. Indicators to look for include a moist tongue and lips.

3. Take frequent breaks for feedings and playtime in the shade. Consider air-conditioned shops and tree-covered park benches.
4. Don't be afraid to take your baby out in public. Babies enjoy the stimulation of experiencing new things with the proper precautions.5. Outings may happen during regularly scheduled nap times. Train rides relax babies easily through rhythmic motion.
6. Train rides encourage good conversation with your spouse while baby relaxes. Soon you will discover how a simple family outing can transform in to a date with your someone special.

Pumping in the Workplace

2011-08-23T10:14:00.006-05:00

Since returning to work two months ago, I have found that it's a challenge to be discreet when it comes to pumping.  While my pump is "hidden" within a book bag, the book bag never fails to prompt questions.

In the afternoons, it never fails for someone to see me in the hallway heading to the 8th floor's Mommy room around 2 or 3 pm and they will say something like, "Heading out a little early today?" or "Finishing up a late lunch, eh?" And another favorite, "Did you mean to get on the elevator going up?"

Since I pump three times a day, it's an amusing challenge for me to come up with the proper response to colleagues. Since I'm one of just a few girls on my hallway, when asked I simply reply, "I'm running an errand." To other women on the floor, who are well aware that I'm nursing Sammy, they smile and sometimes say, "Heading to the Mommy room?" It's a shame that folks aren't more socialized to women pumping.

Over time, I think people will catch on and hopefully see pumping in the workplace to be just as normal an activity as anything else.  No one would look at someone walking down the hallway with a coffee cup and say, "Oh, another coffee break, eh?" It is a normal encounter for someone to walk by someone in the hallway and see someone coming out of the bathroom or the coffee room and know (without saying anything) what they were up to.

Am I offended? Not really. I think people are just naive.  Nursing is just a part of who I am now.  As a parent, I think Tim and I both found a new boldness to do what needed to be done without concerning ourselves with what other folks thought of it. Our calling is to take care of our son.  Pumping is just one of the many contributions I provide for my son on a daily basis.

4 Months & Kickin'

2011-08-22T10:38:00.007-05:00

Buddy Boots

Mother's Day (Sammy at 2 1/2 wks)

Today our little man is 4 months old. We splurged this weekend and got him some baby boots at the Fort Worth Stockyards. We decided that after seven years, one of us was going to get cowboy boots, so the baby it is! We tried them on him yesterday and he loved kicking around in them.

Would you believe my son is in 6 to 9 month clothes, 12 to 24 month socks, size 3 disposable diapers (Medium Fuzzi Bunz) and weighing in around 20 pounds? It's true! And I just got a phone call from Daddy day care and Buddy rolled from his back to his side. (Way to go sweetheart!) What a great day to have a milestone like this. He is scheduled to get his next two shots on Tuesday, Sept. 6th. I wouldn't be surprised if he sleeps through them like he did his first set. (We believe this is because we postponed the aluminum based shots until after he turns 6 months.)

Second Round of Visitations

2011-08-18T15:13:00.006-05:00

Well, Grandma & Grandpa R couldn't get enough of little man at just a few weeks old, they're heading this way after their vacation to spend an extended Labor Day weekend with Sammy (and his parents).

Looking back at these photos from his first week, I'm shocked at how quickly my little boy is growing up. He once had dark jet black hair and now it is a light brown. His eyes were blue back then and now are turning into a beautiful dark grey-hazel shade.

Last week I took a few days of work while Tim was at a conference and drove Sammy to Arkansas. Our Mother/Son road trip was nice, but it is not easy traveling with an infant. He did really well though, but I think he will enjoy air travel better. It was nice to spend some quality time with my Buddy boy and learn some of his cues better. The Norvells were sweet enough to adopt us. Sammy's favorite napping place was their outdoor infant swing (in the shade of a tree, of course).

He will meet his cousin Cort, Uncle Terry & Aunt Shannon this weekend. We have tickets to go on the Grapevine Vintage Train Saturday and look forward to catching up.

Sleeping Band Groupie

2011-08-18T11:16:00.001-05:00

Shirt says, "I'm with the band."

Off with the Old, On With the New...Shingles That Is

2011-08-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

At the end of May we had a horrible hail storm. Sammy's nursery window and the roof were damaged and needed to be replaced. Several months down the road, Tim was able to get the help from his dad and Arlin in replacing the window themselves and then we hired a roofing company to help us out. We were really happy with the results. Now we just have to finish painting the trim and our exterior renovations will be close to complete.

As you can see the severe drought did quite a number on our yard, better luck next year I guess!

Samuel's Birth Announcement

2011-08-15T09:59:00.007-05:00

I was really happy with how these turned out, despite the delay. Kits were purchased at Target, photography by Lydia and poem by Krista.

(Front)

(Back)

S o awed we were to see his tiny hands, his face

     So glad to hold him sweetly in a warm embrace

A n answer to the prayers we’d often prayed

    God’s goodness to us marvelously displayed

M ade in God’s image how could one so small

     Change our world and make us love him deeper through it all

U ndescribable that feeling when we hold him tight

     It’s worth each diaper change and every sleepless night

E ach passing day our little one keeps growing

     And more of parenting now we are knowing

L little Samuel it’s with joy we welcome you

And pray that with your life you’ll praise God too!

Why Delay Solids?

2011-08-05T09:47:00.004-05:00

Kellymom.com (whom I respect for their research based articles) poses the following advice.

As a Mom, I wish I could read Sammy's mind. But I'm always encouraged by Dr. B's empowering words to us from our first visit with him. It's ok to learn about and research about the things that matter, but as parents we must remember to observe our baby. This is what will help us to understand and respond to their needs best.

Is Sammy's interest in food or having our undivided attention and company?  I think I'm beginning to lean toward the later. If I observe my baby, he's the same way when it comes to his playtime. He likes his playmat and bouncer, but he loves when he plays with them and has our undivided attention.

Like any other household with young children, Sammy's always the first to be fed before anyone else, so I don't think it's a hunger issue.  She also provides a great read on "when is my baby ready for solids" that is much more thorough and detailed in explaining the signs than the What to Expect book series.

Why Delay Solids?

Health experts and breastfeeding experts agree that it's best to wait until your baby is around six months old before offering solid foods. There has been a large amount of research on this in the recent past, and most health organizations have updated their recommendations to agree with current research. Unfortunately, many health care providers are not up to date in what they're telling parents, and many, many books are not up to date.

The following organizations recommend that all babies be exclusively breastfed (no cereal, juice or any other foods) for the first 6 months of life (not the first 4-6 months):

• World Health Organization
• UNICEF
• US Department of Health & Human Services
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• American Academy of Family Physicians
• American Dietetic Association
• Australian National Health and Medical Research Council
• Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
• Health Canada

Most babies will become developmentally and physiologically ready to eat solids by 6-9 months of age. For some babies, delaying solids longer than six months can be a good thing; for example, some doctors may recommend delaying solids for 12 months if there is a family history of allergies.

Reasons for delaying solids

Although some of the reasons listed here assume that your baby is breastfed or fed breastmilk only, experts recommend that solids be delayed for formula fed babies also.

Delaying solids gives baby greater protection from illness.

Although babies continue to receive many immunities from breastmilk for as long as they nurse, the greatest immunity occurs while a baby is exclusively breastfed. Breastmilk contains 50+ known immune factors, and probably many more that are still unknown. One study has shown that babies who were exclusively breastfed for 4+ months had 40% fewer ear infections than breastfed babies whose diets were supplemented with other foods. The probability of respiratory illness occurring at any time during childhood is significantly reduced if the child is fed exclusively breast milk for at least 15 weeks and no solid foods are introduced during this time. (Wilson, 1998) Many other studies have also linked the degree of exclusivity of breastfeeding to enhanced health benefits (see Immune factors in human milk and Risks of Artificial Feeding).

Delaying solids gives baby's digestive system time to mature.

If solids are started before a baby's system is ready to handle them, they are poorly digested and may cause unpleasant reactions (digestive upset, gas, constipation, etc.). Protein digestion is incomplete in infancy. Gastric acid and pepsin are secreted at birth and increase toward adult values over the following 3 to 4 months. The pancreatic enzyme amylase does not reach adequate levels for digestion of starches until around 6 months, and carbohydrate enzymes such as maltase, isomaltase, and sucrase do not reach adult levels until around 7 months. Young infants also have low levels of lipase and bile salts, so fat digestion does not reach adult levels until 6-9 months.

Delaying solids decreases the risk of food allergies.

It is well documented that prolonged exclusive breastfeeding results in a lower incidence of food allergies (see Allergy References and Risks of Artificial Feeding). From birth until somewhere between four and six months of age, babies possess what is often referred to as an "open gut." This means that the spaces between the cells of the small intestines will readily allow intact macromolecules, including whole proteins and pathogens, to pass directly into the bloodstream.This is great for your breastfed baby as it allows beneficial antibodies in breastmilk to pass more directly into baby's bloodstream, but it also means that large proteins from other foods (which may predispose baby to allergies) and disease-causing pathogens can pass right through, too. During baby's first 4-6 months, while the gut is still "open," antibodies (sIgA) from breastmilk coat baby's digestive tract and provide passive immunity, reducing the likelihood of illness and allergic reactions before gut closure occurs. Baby starts producing these antibodies on his own at around 6 months, and gut closure should have occurred by this time also. See How Breast Milk Protects Newborns and The Case for the Virgin Gut for more on this subject.

Delaying solids helps to protect baby from iron-deficiency anemia.

The introduction of iron supplements and iron-fortified foods, particularly during the first six months, reduces the efficiency of baby's iron absorption. Healthy, full-term infants who are breastfed exclusively for periods of 6-9 months have been shown to maintain normal hemoglobin values and normal iron stores. In one study (Pisacane, 1995), the researchers concluded that babies who were exclusively breastfed for 7 months (and were not give iron supplements or iron-fortified cereals) had significantly higher hemoglobin levels at one year than breastfed babies who received solid foods earlier than seven months. The researchers found no cases of anemia within the first year in babies breastfed exclusively for seven months and concluded that breastfeeding exclusively for seven months reduces the risk of anemia. See Is Iron-Supplementation Necessary? for more information.

Delaying solids helps to protect baby from future obesity.

The early introduction of solids is associated with increased body fat and weight in childhood. (for example, see Wilson 1998, von Kries 1999, Kalies 2005)

Delaying solids helps mom to maintain her milk supply.

Studies have shown that for a young baby solids replace milk in a baby's diet - they do not add to baby's total intake. The more solids that baby eats, the less milk he takes from mom, and less milk taken from mom means less milk production. Babies who eat lots of solids or who start solids early tend to wean prematurely.

Delaying solids helps to space babies.

Breastfeeding is most effective in preventing pregnancy when your baby is exclusively breastfed and all of his nutritional and sucking needs are satisfied at the breast.

Delaying solids makes starting solids easier.

Babies who start solids later can feed themselves and are not as likely to have allergic reactions to foods.

I Want What You're Having

2011-08-03T07:57:00.003-05:00

Sammy will be 15 weeks this Friday! As you can see from the above photo, Sammy's VERY interested in what Mommy & Daddy are eating at meal times. But is he ready?

WTETFY advice on introducing solids:
"1. Head held high. While your baby doesn't need to be able to sit independently in order to expand his culinary repertoire, he does need to be able to hold his head up well on his own, and sit — supported — without slumping over.
2. Tongue untied. See if he'll accept a spoon. In young babies, the tongue-thrust reflex helps keep foreign objects out of their mouths, and if he's not ready to be spoon-fed, he might push out that spoon coming his way — even one that's laden with yummy bananas or tasty rice cereal. Once he outgrows the tongue-thrust reflex, he'll be able to eat solids more successfully.
3. Eager eyes. A baby who's ready for solids may show great interest in grown-ups' meals — he may even try to grab himself a bite right off your plate!"

He's definitely displaying #1 and #3, but we have not tried #2. We're going to try to hold off until later in the month as we will be traveling next week and I'm really not interested in a big change while on the road. I'm interested in making my own baby food, if anyone has any suggestions or resources they recommend, please feel free to share.

Under Construction

2011-08-02T08:07:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I returned to the gym. It's been almost three in a half months since Sammy was born. I have lost 22 pounds post-baby, but I have quite a ways to go before I can say I'm happy with my body again. Yes, I think mothers should be happy and comfortable with their bodies. It's important to feel good about yourself. We sometimes lose our focus because we are more concerned with our children whether they mean to be that way or if it's instinctively maternal. I'm guilty of this myself, it's part of how we were made, but we have to find a healthy balance.

But I've come to the understanding that if I care about my family, I need to care about myself too. First because it glorifies God when we do. Second, it communicates to my spouse that I care about him and want to please him. Third, it sets an example to Sammy because he's a sponge and what I do directly influences the life decisions he will make for himself. And finally, God has allowed a burden in my life (PCOS) that I know I will never be able to address if I don't exercise. The lack of discipline in this area would mean the possibility that desires I have may never be met again if I don't work toward a healthy lifestyle.

Sammy is both an answer to prayer and a sign of God's goodness because He allowed me to get pregnant even when the odds were against me. Many women who have PCOS are never able to conceive. And yet God has given me a glimpse of His vision for me in Sammy and yes, someday we would like to have another child, if not more.

Two factors will play in to that vision. One is Sammy and how long he will maintain our nursing relationship. When I became a Mommy, I thought to myself, "If I can just go six months, I will be content with nursing my son." Now that I'm half way through that time, I think I would be open to a longer period of time if Sammy wants that and if I'm physically able to meet those needs with a good milk supply. But that means the clock will be ticking as to when "Edgar" (my menstrual cycle) would return as most mothers who nurse do not have them while they're doing so. So, I guess initially Sammy will determine when he wants to have a sibling and then it will resort to when and how Edgar will surface.

Yes, this is a pretty personal post. But I think being a mother, much of my hesitations to say certain things before aren't as big a deal to me now. When you see a miracle starring at you on a daily basis, you are humbled by God's work in one's life. There's not a week that goes by that I don't take for granted the gift that He's given me. I believe the time we waited for the Lord to give us a baby gave us a deep appreciation for Sammy more so than if we had just had him without the trial. God was and still is being glorified!

Returning to the gym was an opportunity for me to declare my beauty in Christ, redirect my vision for my life and make a turning point that not every mother makes. I'm searching for more of Him and in return I know He will give me more of me than I ever knew was possible.

It is a blessing to live less than a mile away from my gym and be just a phone call away in case Sammy needs me, but still have the freedom to spend a little time on myself. I'm glad I have a husband who's supportive in this area and willing to watch our son to give me the alone time I need to get myself back on track.

Addison Road - Change in the Making

2011-08-02T07:40:00.002-05:00

There’s a better version of me
That I can’t quite see
But things are gonna change
Right now I’m a total mess and
Right now I’m completely incomplete
But things are gonna change
Cause you’re not through with me yet

This is redemption’s story
With every step that I'm taking
Every day, you’re chipping away
What I don’t need
This is me under construction
This is my pride being broken
And every day I’m closer to who I’m meant to be
I'm a change in the making

Wish I could live more patiently
Wish I could give a little more of me
Without stopping to think twice
Wish I had faith like a little child
Wish I could walk a single mile
Without tripping on my own feet
But you’re not through with me yet
And this is redemption’s story
With every step that I'm taking

And every day, you’re chipping away
What I don’t need
This is me under construction
This is my pride being broken
Every day I’m closer to who I’m meant to be
From the dawn of history
You make new and you redeem
From a broken world to a broken heart

You finish what you start in everything
Like a river rolls into the sea
We’re not who we’re going to be
But things are going to change
I'm living redemption’s story
With every step that I'm taking

And every day, you’re chipping away
What I don’t need
And this is me under construction
This is my pride being broken
And every day I’m closer to who I’m meant to be
I'm a change in the making
I'm not who I'm gonna be
Moving closer to your glory

Saturday Morning Lounging

2011-07-30T22:42:00.001-05:00

My Widdle Froggy Sam

2011-07-30T12:49:00.002-05:00

3 Months

2011-07-28T10:35:00.008-05:00

Grandpa & Grandma D with Sammy

Last Friday Sammy turned 3 months old and Sunday Tim and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary. As of late, blogging has not really been on the priority list for me. I have been consumed with my work and my family.

I do take great pride in my son's growth and being able to brag that he is exclusively breastfed. This is certainly no easy task, but with passionate discipline (and good milk supply) it is possible. My advice to working Mommy's: remember who and why you're pumping. Look at it as more than a task or burden, but a way to serve your child in a special way. Low milk supply can be associated with many things, but stress can be a big component. Don't give up easily.

Sammy met his Grandma and Grandpa Dolch over the 4th of July holiday and we attended our first Mommy's group together later that month. Tim has found Daddy daycare to be a lot of work, but consistent napping lately has helped and the bond they've been able to form has been neat for me to see. Sammy no longer needs nightly "car ride interventions" to go to sleep as he prefers to nurse. Sammy's a very happy baby, loves motion and is very social. He is also a cuddler like his Momma.

We believe it will be very easy to potty train Sammy as he has already begun to associate one place as his "toilet"...his swing. Even before you can get that boy strapped in he is grunting and smiling as you can hear the preparation of a present coming. He keeps us on our toes and laughing.

Like father, like son

Being a parent has been very satisfying for both Tim and I. Sammy continues to develop and grow at a fast rate. When he went in for his 2 month check-up he weighed in at 10 weeks at 14 lbs, 6 oz (93% percentile) with a length of 24 inches. Today we believe he is close to 16 lbs! He has been wearing 6 month outfits for quite some time and we had to "retire" his 6-12 month socks this week. According to Grandma D he is on the same track as his Uncle Terry (now 6'5") when he was a baby.

How did his first shots go? Wonderfully! Dr. B, aka the baby whisper, had lulled Sammy to sleep during his examination, handed him back to me to hold. We waited patiently for the nurse. She came in, we prepared ourselves for the worst and were pleasantly surprised with Sammy's response. A small yelp with each of the two shots and he was back to sleep. Amazing! We were relieved and happy to have a doctor who is willing to work with parents who want to do delayed immunization schedules. We believe the experience was better for Sammy because we asked for the ActHIB vaccine (did not contain aluminum) so there was no fever or delayed discomfort/swelling.

Saturday Morning Smiles

2011-07-28T10:30:00.002-05:00

Look At Me

2011-07-28T10:26:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peak into the world of Daddy day care. Here's Tim with Sammy in his carrier. (Notice Tim is the one taking the photo by using the mirror in our breakfast nook. Very clever!)

Missing Mommy

2011-06-29T22:40:00.003-05:00

Arriving home this evening from work there was no question that little man missed more than his preferred drink choice, but his Mommy. After nursing he was incredibly happy, showing off while Mommy ate her dinner. Then of course the cluster feedings continued throughout the night, but he was a chatter box on the changing table, wanted to play on the play mat and show off again in the bouncer seat. I even managed to give Sammy a bath.

As 7:30 PM rolled around little man started to get a little more relaxed and quiet after his feedings. By 9 PM he was falling asleep in my arms and I was able to lay him down (without a car ride intervention!) I love how cuddly he gets, what a sweetie pie.

Daddy came home from band practice and saw Mommy happily sitting in her princess throne in the living room reading her book. Both feeling accomplished, we celebrated with root beer floats!

Cloth Diapers Reviewed

2011-06-28T08:50:00.002-05:00

Well, I mentioned making the big "switch" awhile back so I thought I would provide an update. I really love them! We've got a good routine going with them and as long as Tim's willing to change them during the day, I always take the initiative to help with washing in the evenings. I rarely have to "interact" as breastfed babies stool is easy to care for. They're very absorbent and when Sammy had what probably would have been a huge disaster in a DD (disposable diaper), CD (cloth diapers) were there for the rescue with no leakage. I take that back, we had ONE diaper that had a small leak on the side but when you opened the diaper, you would have been surprised why more hadn't escaped for as full as it was.

While out and about our wet bag does a great job holding our CD's until we get home and also is washable. Tim and I wonder why the invention of Velcro and snaps are such a modern thing when it comes to CD's. When we were kids we had Velcro shoes. I guess it just took a little while for people to make the connection and for home washers to be efficient enough to get the job done (and well!) Lydia also reminded me of the importance of occasionally stripping CD's. I found this link that explains the process.

Little Man at 6 Weeks

2011-06-28T08:40:00.002-05:00

Lydia did a photoshot of Sammy while she was visiting a few weeks ago. Here are a few of my favorites.

My First Week Back

2011-06-24T08:05:00.003-05:00

I would sum up the week with one word: exhausting. Thankfully logistics have been quiet, but catching up on two months of e-mail is cumbersome just thinking about it. It's good to be back, I missed my colleagues. Getting into the swing of things with my routine has been gradual. Feeding Sammy first thing in the morning, lunchtime and when I get home helps keep my Mommy tank full. Pumping on a more regular basis has it's own adjustments and time management in the evenings has been key. I help Tim out by leading the diaper duty effort for washing since he changes them all day.

We've had a few engagements in the evenings this week so I'm looking forward to some down time. Sammy has taken to the bottle, but it's very evident that Mommy is still his preferred choice of drink. There have been a few times where Tim said he could tell he missed his Mommy, but little man has done really well with the transition. Tim is always there with Sammy to welcome me home, both with big grins on their face and Tim helps Sammy to "wave" at Mommy (Tim knows I'm a sucker for this sort of thing.)

List: Delivery/Newborn Must Haves

2011-06-22T14:02:00.014-05:00

Before Baby

Online Contraction Counter http://www.thebump.com/calculators/contraction.aspx
Itzbeen Baby Care Timer http://www.amazon.com/Itzbeen-Baby-Care-Timer-Blue/dp/B000MEB3GE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308759212&sr=8-1
Addison Road Album http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014KA0BY/ref=dm_sp_alb?ie=UTF8&qid=1308759671&sr=8-3

First Days

Inflatable Seat Cushion Ring http://www.amazon.com/Duro-Med-Rubber-Inflatable-Seat-Cushion/dp/B0009STN2O/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1308759278&sr=1-2
Perineal Irrigation Bottle http://www.amazon.com/Lavette-Bottle-Perineal-Irrigation-DYND70125H/dp/B000VSXSX2/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1308768997&sr=1
Feeding and Diapering Chart http://www.huggies.com/assets/feeding-and-diapering-chart.pdf
Newborn Pampers Swaddlers Diapers (with wetness indicator) http://www.amazon.com/Pampers-Swaddlers-Diapers-Newborn-Count/dp/B00347AGFK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308760120&sr=8-1
Triple Paste Ointment for Diaper Rash http://www.amazon.com/Triple-Paste-Medicated-Ointment-2-Ounce/dp/B003NV9Z6I/ref=sr_1_3?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1308760297&sr=1-3
Kelly Mom :: Breastfeeding & Parenting http://www.kellymom.com/

Troubleshooting & Comfort

Medela Contact Nipple Shield 20mm http://www.amazon.com/Medela-Contact-Nipple-Shield-20mm/dp/B000YQMWLU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1308768583&sr=8-3
Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-65005-Soothies-Gel-Pads/dp/B002KGHUL4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1308768654&sr=8-2
Lansinoh Lanolin http://www.amazon.com/Lansinoh-Lanolin-Breastfeeding-Mothers-56/dp/B0018DMYX4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1308769805&sr=8-2
Genetian Violet http://www.amazon.com/Gentian-Violet-%25-Solution-Antiseptic/dp/B004XJQR60/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1308769763&sr=8-5
Gripe Water http://www.amazon.com/Little-Tummys-Gripe-Water-120/dp/B001J5LDM4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1308770165&sr=8-5
Gas Relief Drops http://www.amazon.com/Little-Tummys-Newborns-Infants-Children/dp/B001F0RAW0/ref=sr_1_1?

Sleepless Nights

Fisher-Price Rainforest Bouncer http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-K2564-Rainforest-Bouncer/dp/B000I2WB6G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308769963&sr=8-1
Moby Baby Wrap http://www.amazon.com/Moby-Wrap-Original-Cotton-Carrier/dp/B00134DLO4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1308770527&sr=8-1

On the Go

Graco SnugRide Infant Stroller Frame http://www.amazon.com/Graco-SnugRider-Infant-Stroller-Frame/dp/B0007KMUH4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308770577&sr=8-1

My Chatter Box

2011-06-20T22:32:00.002-05:00

Sammy's favorite past time is to gab on the changing table with Mommy and Daddy. Yesterday while Tim was on the phone with his Dad, Sammy decided he wanted to chat with him too. So he grunted and ooo'd and aaah'd. I think Grandpa enjoyed the interuption!

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T21:00:00.001-05:00

Look at the lower lip puckered up! Ridiculously cute for his Daddy on his big day.

Now T"hat's" What I Call A Sleepy Baby

2011-06-18T19:59:00.000-05:00

Sammy loves to be outside (despite it being summer and we live in Texas). So, I walked with him up and down the driveway (it's shaded well by two cottonwood trees in our neighbor's yard) and I got a good result: a happy, sleepy baby! Maybe he was counting cars in his sleep since he loves to watch them pass by when he's awake.

(Too bad he's already growing out of this 0-3 month hat.)

Cloth Diapers

2011-06-17T17:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we transitioned Sammy in to his cloth diapers. They're very intuitive. Easy to wash and assemble, Sammy seems to love how soft they are and we are impressed with how absorbent they are! He's sporting four fun colors: two shades of blue, apple green and traditional white. The snaps are great and he will be able to put them to good use (through his eighth month). Breastfed babies stool is very watery, so interacting with the diapers is pretty minimal with the use of a simple diaper sprayer and storing in our Diaper Champ until it's time to wash them. Whoever came up with the idea of modernizing the classic cloth diaper was a genius!

Meeting James

2011-06-16T14:19:00.006-05:00

Touring the Metroplex last week catching up with old friends, Lydia stayed with us and got to meet Sammy. Her husband was away from home leading a mission trip with some of his church members. Lydia and I reflected on our Fort Worth days together and shared parenting stories with one another late into the evening. The following morning she took photographs of Sammy. Then I joined her in driving to Fort Worth to reconnect with some of our other friends and to have the opportunity to see her mother and her two boys whom she’d been watching the past few days.

As my son slept in a crowded noontime Chickfila, I experienced one of the greatest moments a friend could experience; I met Lydia’s youngest, nine-month old James. I do not recall praying for a friend’s child more than James. James has Down’s syndrome. Many times, Down’s syndrome babies have heart murmurs. This was the case for James. Less than five months old and he experienced open heart surgery.
Looking back, I knew Lydia was a concerned Momma, but now being a mother, I cannot fathom all the thoughts and emotions she must have experienced. I prayed so hard for that little guy (and still do) and all of a sudden, in a moment’s time, there he was in my arms. He looked up at me with his big blue eyes and smiled at me. The compassion I felt for him made me speechless. I just held him in my arms, looked over at Sammy asleep on the table in his car seat and smiled to myself. I think I teared up at one point in talking with Lydia’s mother Carolyn because I was consumed with two thoughts. One was the gratitude that continues to overflow my heart with my ability to have had Sammy. We waited so long for God to bless us with a kid, my heart can’t contain the joy I feel. Then I look at James and see a testimony of God’s faithfulness and goodness before me. And to see how Lydia interacts with him and how his older brother Caleb cares for him. And knowing how big of a heart his father Jon has, I couldn’t see a little boy like him with a better family than he has. God spoke to me through this little guy about the joys of caring for children.

Later that day some things came up and I was able to spend a little more individualized time with both James and Sammy together while Lydia was away. Going back and forth, holding one or the other, I was happy to care for these two little guys side by side. I sat there holding James and couldn’t stop grinning. I think my heart grew bigger in those minutes. My passion for children grew. Thanks James, I love you like you were one of my own. I can’t wait to reconnect again someday.

James and Sammy hanging out

Changed

2011-06-16T14:17:00.005-05:00

7 weeks, 6 days old

“We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:51

Monday I return to work. It’s amazing how much has changed in eight weeks’ time. I bore a son, I purchased a new car, I’m wearing glasses full-time (my stigmatism has progressed to both eyes and glasses on order to arrive at the end of this month) and I feel refreshed if I get five hours straight of sleep. I cannot recall a time in my life when I experienced this much change at once except when Tim and I were first married and made the move to Texas. Having a baby is one of those “life” moments where everything turns upside down, but I would gladly say for the better.

While visiting with some friends in Fort Worth this past week, my former Sunday school director asked me what surprised me most about motherhood. In thinking back upon my response, I think I would change (or add to) my response. I never fathomed nursing would allow me to have such a special bond with my son. I had heard positive feedback from other mothers, but never had they shared in detail with me the bond that’s formed. Quiet and diligent, Sammy reminds me of the cute little bunnies my sister and I took care of growing up. His chubby cheeks, closed eyes focused on his feeding and afterwards, his relaxed disposition make us smile every time. Tim has encouraged and enjoyed this bond too. We both get tickled at his eager anticipation beforehand and are amused at how he likes to fall asleep on me afterwards. If he hasn’t fallen asleep, we’re guaranteed a wonderfully huge stretch from him expressing another satisfactory meal.

My favorite memory while on leave (other than the obvious, Sammy’s birth) would be the quality time we’ve been able to share as a family. (This will be no surprise to my husband who knows my love language is quality time). One evening last week, we had a great evening play session with our son. Sure, we play all the time, but this particular night Sammy was exceptionally sweet and smiley. He was in my arms stretched out on our bed and there the three of us were, sharing in deep “baby conversation”. We would ask Sammy a question and pause, allowing him the opportunity to respond and he would look up at us with a huge grin and produced some of the cutest little baby grunts a parent could hope for. Moments like these I will cherish for a long time.

Our Planned Vaccine Schedule

2011-06-07T12:52:00.004-05:00

Here's a blog post that Tim wrote ont the research we did in preparation for Sammy's vaccinations. Click here to read.

Why I Chose to Nurse

2011-06-07T07:54:00.009-05:00

Our Backgrounds -- I was formula fed. My mom's impressions were like many mom's of the 80's, that formula was just as good as nursing and her family's experiences with breastfeeding had given her a distaste in considering it as an option.  The same was true for my sister. My husband was breastfed. His mother and family are strong supporters in this area, including one aunt, who is a La Leache League coach.  My sister-in-law also nursed despite my nephew's pre-mature birth of almost three months. Every mom will choose their preference on what they believe is best for their children.

Why I Chose to Nurse -- I chose to nurse because I believe it glorifies God. God made women in His likeness. Just as He is the Great Provider, women are gifted with the ability to provide nourishment and affection to their children through nursing.  God is also our Protector and in His likeness, gifts women with the ability to provide unique personal immunities to equip children to fight off disease.  Nursing also provides numerous health benefits for mothers (see article if interested in reading further about).

Nursing is not for everyone. I believe it's something you have to want to do, not just want to try. To me, to try is to enter in without the commitment required. To be passionate about something requires complete buy-in. This is also true for those who choose to give birth naturally. For nursing mothers, it's a lifestyle choice. However, unlike birth choices, where I believe it's solely the mother's choice, a father's buy-in is essential in making breastfeeding successful.  It's a family matter that must be agreed upon.

"If you can survive the first six weeks of nursing, you can successfully nurse your baby as long as you want." I've heard this statement numerous times, but only now that my son is almost seven weeks old, would I agree.  Learning "the dance" requires passionate perseverance, but the results are rewarding. Each day and week I look back and see the progress that has been made.  Sammy is a healthy growing baby boy!

I have experienced many of the physical challenges associated with nursing, including (but not limited to) latching, thrush, oversupply, baby's reflux/gas, leakage and soreness. But just like labor pains, they are temporary and quickly forgotten. Then add in the psychological and spiritual struggles of criticism, varied opinions on approach, anxiety/worry associated with the temptation to be a people pleaser, a taste of postpartum "baby blues", and when and why to introduce baby to the bottle.  America's baby formula marketing strategies are intense, but really didn't sway my decision since my exposure was minimal with my decision to have Sammy at a birthing center vs. a hospital. (Most mothers who choose a more natural birth tend to lean more toward breastfeeding than formula.)

As time allows I will write more on this topic. Stay tuned.

Amateur Mom

2011-06-07T06:23:00.003-05:00

It's 5 am.

The sun is rising, the Metroplex waking.

Sitting in my car, sipping coffee.

Birds chirping, planes flying above.

Baby sleeping in the backseat, husband at home catching some zzz's.

MP3 playing a worship song, saying a simple prayer.

The beginning of another day for this amateur mom.

My Men

The First Five Weeks

2011-05-27T14:25:00.006-05:00

Five weeks ago today, Sammy was born. If you asked me what a contraction felt like, I could tell you it hurts, but my memory has distanced them from me with the joys of motherhood. Children change your life! Sammy's smile arrived a few weeks ago and we can't get enough of it.

At Monday's 1 month appointment, Sammy weighed in at a "stellar" 10 lbs, 2 oz. (compared to his birth weight of 8 lbs, 6 oz.). My cousin and sister have both visited since I wrote last.

Memorial Day

It's hard to believe five weeks of eight have passed already of my maternity leave. It seems like time is flying by so fast. Today I skipped what could have been a potential power nap to attempt to catch up on my e-mail and post this blog. As a parent, your views on cleaning, accomplishing certain tasks, etc. quickly changes. Like I told my mom on the phone last night, I'm happy to brush my teeth and put on deodorant in a day's time. Our good friends encouage us with the following phrase, "We're not raising carpets (or insert whatever task or item you're thinking of trying to complete, or concerned might get messed up), we're raising children!" Well said.

Sammy just woke up, motherhood's calling me back.

The First Two Weeks

2011-05-10T16:26:00.008-05:00

I think I could stare at my baby all day and never tire of it. From his little button nose to his fingers and toes, he is a beautiful creation, a miracle, a gift from God. I feel unworthy of such an amazing responsibility, but am so grateful to call him my son.

The first two weeks were difficult. Desperately seeking rest, we were faced with the initial trials of recovering from a difficult labor, learning the “dance” of nursing, and the stickiness of meconium diapers. Bed rest is not something that comes naturally for me, but it was something my body needed. I couldn’t even get in and out of bed without Tim’s help. Tim was trying to balance his own recovery from coaching me as well as taking care of me and Sammy. I was further impaired than most with a hurt tailbone from pushing as long as I did.

We needed help! Without hesitation, we reached out to our Sunday Bible Fellowship class to ask if they would be willing to supply us a few meals until my parents arrived when Sammy was six days old. They agreed and respectively gave us the space we needed to adjust during Sammy’s first days as we were not up for visitors yet. After my delivery, “Meat was like candy” to me. I couldn’t get enough. My body was recovering and knew what it needed. Racine also came by to help with a few things around the house that allowed Tim to take a break.

Melissa, Sammy's new friend

Learning the “dance” of nursing has brought about numerous nicknames for our son. “Sleepy Sammy” wouldn’t get up for his feedings. “Stinky Sammy” had gas from black beans I’ve since cut from the family’s diet after an evening of endless flatulence. “Strong Sammy” is the impressive newborn who can raise his head with his strong neck muscles! These are just a few of the many nicknames that have kept our spirits up. Sleepiness, latching and confusion between night and day have all been nursing issues we’ve faced. I recruited help early on, having Melissa, a friend’s sister who’s a lactation consultant help coach me when Sammy was just three days old. We’ve met several times since and seen great improvements! Reaching out early was not easy but well worth it for both Sammy and me.

Grandparents to the rescue!

In preparation for my parents’ arrival, we phoned a cleaning service my friend had gotten me as a baby shower gift. What a thoughtful gift! It was so relaxing for both of us to have the house in order. Soon after, my parents arrived for a thirteen day visit. It was great for them to interact with Sammy as a newborn and to have the extra hands to help while Tim finished teaching for the semester.

We love our Sammy boy.

We had our follow-up appointments with my mid-wife and Sammy’s pediatrician, and everyone’s making great progress in their recovery and development. Slowly I’ve been able to enjoy a few visitations and eating at the kitchen table once again. We take each task as it comes and do our best to give Sammy the love and support he needs during his initial days. He keeps us on our toes, but also in good spirits with his facial expressions.

Grandma & Grandpa to the Rescue!

2011-05-08T11:24:00.001-05:00

My parents arrived when Sammy was 6 days old. They head back to Maryland on Tuesday. Thanks for your love, support and extra hands. Sammy loved playing with his grandparents, especially after his 3 a.m. feedings. Here's a few photos from their visit.

Mom, Happy Mother's Day! I appreciate you more this year than ever. The only gift I can offer is your grandson, but you can't take him home with you. I worked hard for him.

Grandma & Grandpa to the Rescue

Napping Is My Favorite Past Time

2011-05-03T15:28:00.000-05:00

Samuel’s Birth

2011-04-30T12:33:00.004-05:00

When I reflect on Samuel’s birth story, I’m speechless.

Tim said it best when he rejoiced that our son was born on Good Friday. Just as Christ’s death brought new life on the cross, Samuel’s arrival brought new life to our family.

Sammy's "pirate face"

Sammy has a sweet disposition for a newborn baby. His long yawns end with a sweet smirk. His “pirate face” makes us laugh as he peers at us with one eye open and one eye closed.

Samuel was born Friday, April 22nd, 2011, at 12:21 pm. I labored sixty four hours and pushed for two. He weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 20 ¾ inches in length. I delivered naturally in a birthing center with a midwife and her three assistants.

Exhaustion and back labor were my two greatest challenges when my contractions began Tuesday evening. Rest was what I needed, but the contractions were too often and intense. They would range from thirty to five minutes apart; Samuel wasn’t ready to come yet. I worked from home Wednesday, by Thursday I was focused on working through my contractions but the sleep deprivation was beginning to wear on me.

That afternoon I went for my weekly check-up to find out that I was 3 cm dilated, but they were concerned about my energy levels and wanted to see me get some sleep. We made the decision to give me a narcotic shot to try to relax me and they sent me home. Unfortunately the shot was not successful. It made me sleep but I woke up during every contraction.

Thursday evening as I continued to labor, Tim struggled with the exhaustion too. Coaching me through each contraction, he helped to apply pressure to my back. Early Friday morning we made the decision to phone the Roths (our neighbors and good friends) to see if Racine would be willing to work with me through some of my contractions to allow Tim a chance to get some sleep. She graciously agreed and worked with me the next two hours. By 3 a.m. my contractions were where they needed to be and we made the call. Betty agreed. Racine woke Tim up, helped me get in the car and off we went.

Sammy with Betty, my midwife

Arriving at the birthing center, it was difficult for me to walk. Half way down the sidewalk, I remember Betty coming out to meet us. She took my hand and with a comforting confidence said, “Stand up straight and just walk.” It was a reassuring moment for both of us; we knew we were in good hands. Betty examined me and I was encouraged when she told me I was 7 cm dilated. She explained that this would not be an easy delivery. In addition to the length of time and my physical exhaustion, I was experiencing back labor due to the baby’s position.

She helped us to get situated in one of the birthing rooms and together, Tim and I pressed on throughout the night, one contraction at a time. Along with the breathing exercises I had learned in the birthing classes, the runner instinct within me found visuals to focus on. I stared at one basket with such intensity, if I was a super hero; I would have zapped it with my lightning bolt eyes. Tim was also a source of joy and focus for me. I also had the prayer support of a few close friends whom I had disclosed our labor pains with.

Sammy’s heartbeat was strong and my labor slowly progressed. By 9 a.m. I was 9 cm. Elizabeth, one of Betty’s assistants, recommended we consider breaking my water to quicken the final stage of labor before pushing. We agreed, knowing the contractions would be coming more often and with more intensity. By 10 a.m. I was ready to start pushing. The exhaustion made it difficult for me, but I took each push as it came. I remember my legs beginning to cramp and finding renewed confidence in myself when the body did what it was designed to do, push! For me, it just didn’t come as quickly as with other mothers because of my circumstances. But I kept up with it. All I could think about was how tired I was, but when the contraction would come upon me, I knew it was back to work.

It’s amazing how when one reaches their own end, God gives us the ability to do the impossible. He also gives us people to help us through those challenges. Between Tim, Betty and her assistants, I was in great care. If I needed a drink, they were there to extend one to me. If I needed a damp washcloth across my face, they were there. I appreciated their conversations and encouraging words. They accommodated me to help me find the best position and when that baby’s head started to make its way out, they gave minute-by-minute updates to me on my progress.

Then it happened. After it was all said and done, Samuel was in my arms. Tim and I were shocked at how big he was! How could this guy have been within me and how did he ever manage to get out? I was consumed by a love I had never felt before. Tim and I looked at each other in amazement and enjoyed our first moments with our son.

We left the birthing center three hours later, with our newborn son. Our vitals were good and mama left proud to have labored all that time with no tearing to show for it. What a great Good Friday indeed!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T22:28:00.005-05:00

1st Family Photo

Proud parents Margie & Tim Dolch announce the birth of their son
Samuel Rainer Dolch

‎8 pounds 6 ounces, 20.75 inches long, born 4/22 at 12:21 p.m.

Surviving Graduate School: Now Entering Parenting

2011-04-20T12:23:00.002-05:00

Tim is tentatively scheduled for his oral exam next Friday, April 29th. While we were hoping that this would happen prior to Sammy's arrival, scheduling everyone on the panel was not as easy as the graduate office had hoped it would be.

But that's ok, because at least we know when to anticipate it and in the long run, this is the end of a very long journey that opens up new opportunities: Tim's focus on his dissertation and the completition on his PhD examinations.

Graduate school has allowed both of us to grow and mature as individuals and as a couple. It's helped prepare us for the next challenge and phase in our lives: parenting! I'm glad we're not in this journey alone, God's grace and guidance has been key.

Here's to graduate school...in good times and bad! We'll make it through this yet.

Naps, Cuddles & Cherished Moments

2011-04-20T11:56:00.002-05:00

Saturday afternoon Tim gave me that "oh so familiar look" and pointed to our living room couch with a smile. One of the many things I love about him is how cuddly he is. Being married to a sensitive middle child has it's perks and this is one of them, especially with me being the baby of the family. I can always count on Tim to enjoy a Saturday afternoon nap with me. As all "three" of us managed to somehow still fit on our couch, he held me in his arms and expressed something I never thought I would ever hear. "Wifely, when Sammy comes I will miss this." I looked at him puzzled and reassured him that he would always be my number one. He looked back at me with those big green eyes and smiled, content and encouraged.

We both realize our lives are about to change, but having the foundation of a Christian marriage and a healthy relationship makes parenting a wonderful transition for us. Tim is my confidiant and best friend. I can't imagine my life without him. Don't know where I would be without him. I've enjoyed spoiling my husband and I don't plan to stop when I become a mother. Sammy is an extension of our love for one another. He'll join the cuddle time or will be off counting his own little sheep in his bassinet to allow Mommy and Daddy the time they still need. It's important for him to see that his parents have a healthy and happy relationship.

Why do I share this? One, because it's ridiculously cute and I know others hopefully have similiar experiences with their spouses. Two, so I don't forget what life was like before so that a month or two into these new changes I can be reminded of the joys of simple things like these. Three, I just love my husband and like to brag about him when I can because that's what wifely wife's do.

Where's the Baby?

2011-04-18T08:00:00.003-05:00

Yes, we're down to the last week and everyone has the same thing on their mind, "where's the baby?" Sammy seems content where he's at for the time being, so we wait patiently. Mommy and Daddy had a fun weekend together.

Stay tuned for updates, I know the anticipation is building!

My Pink Little Piggies

2011-04-15T07:53:00.004-05:00

Last night I finally went and got my pedicure. After talking about doing it for nearly two weeks, I finally completed the prerequisite of shaving my legs (which at 38 weeks pregnant is not as easy as it might seem). Anyways, Tim dropped me off for my hour of pampering and it was so fun! I did the milk and honey pedicure and it was awesome. The guy who did my toes was really nice. He had a 7 month old little girl at home so he welcomed my swollen feet and big ole baby belly gladly. He asked when I was due and I told him Easter and he smiled and said, "O a Easter egg, how nice!"

When all was said and done I went with a pretty pink for my nail color, as I will soon be the minority in the household with my two guys. As you can see from the photo, my feet are still pretty swollen, but the pedicure made me feel better about them and the calluses from wearing sandals on a daily basis are much more manageable. I'm not one to splurge on this sort of thing on a regular basis, but as a mother-to-be, a pedicure is such a simple and soothing way to make yourself feel better about those "fat little piggies" that were once known as your feet.

Now, the even better news...date night is still on for tonight. I got the all clear yesterday and Sammy's progress continues to show he's doing great and right on track!

Dropping or Lightening During Pregnancy

2011-04-13T09:01:00.003-05:00

Monday evening, while taking Cassidy and Alyssa to the park with Tim, I sensed a change. I wasn't sure what it was, but after reviewing my reading materials, I anticipate that Sammy has dropped farther into my pelvis in preparation for birth. What to Expect While You're Expecting's website provides a brief description to help explain:

"At the end of the third trimester, the baby settles, or drops lower, into the mother's pelvis. This is known as dropping or lightening. Dropping is not a good predictor of when labor will begin. In first-time mothers, dropping usually occurs 2 to 4 weeks before delivery, but it can happen earlier. In women who have already had children, the baby may not drop until labor begins."

Is it painful? Not really. It's just a new pressure that baby's doing what he's supposed to be doing. Understanding what my body's doing takes away potential worry and fear. This is one of many reasons that women need to be aware of their bodies and how they were made. When Tim and I first began our birthing classes, our midwife explained how the baby dropped in to the pelvis. I thought it was beautiful. The baby knows how to slowly turn in to what seems like an impossible journey through such a small space. The Lord is guiding Sammy even now for the path he must take.

Matthew 6:25-34 "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

11 days to go!

A Night at the Symphony

2011-04-12T16:37:00.001-05:00

Friday night Tim and I are going to the Bass Hall for the first time. A couple from church offered us their tickets since they couldn't make it and have season passes, so we were thrilled with the opportunity to see the symphony. We've seen them perform in their Concert in the Garden series on numerous occasions, but never within the beautiful building that makes Downtown Fort Worth the beauty that she is.

The excitement continues. The performance falls the same weekend as the Main St. Fort Worth Art's Festival! When we lived in Fort Worth, we loved going to this. Last year our neighbors and friends the Roths even made the venture over to check it out with us. Artists from all over the country have booths throughout the downtown streets and the live music is always so much fun. One year we got to hear Buddy Guy LIVE! This year Better Than Ezra is playing Friday night, so we may just have to check it out afterwards.

So, no sign of baby and two healthy and happy parents-to-be are making the most of a Friday afternoon and evening together. I'm taking the day off to allow us ample time to find a good parking spot and enjoy some time together as we reflect on it being just the two of us for now, with Sammy's due date quickly approaching. I'm looking forward to the artwork, the smells, the people watching and spending some quality time with my best friend. At the same time, I'm not getting my hope's set as I know Sammy may decide to come at any time. And if so, we'll take him! The symphony can always wait until another day.

Book Review: Big Red Barn Board Book

2011-04-12T16:09:00.002-05:00

Sunday afternoon Tim read Sammy his first book. The "Big Red Barn Board Book" by Margaret Wise Brown was a great read! The illustrations are beautiful, the tone is soothing and the creative perspective on everyday things makes this such a great find. The book's calming effects were so good that Tim and I followed it up with an hour's nap without giving any thought to the connection of the book to the relaxation we were experiencing. We're hoping the book has the same success with Sammy as it did with us.

Baby Bump: 38 Weeks

2011-04-10T13:34:00.000-05:00

My Checklist

2011-04-09T22:08:00.000-05:00

Bassinet set-up in bedroom - check
Nursery finalized (including homemade quilt and curtains) - check
Sammy and Mommy/Daddy's bag packed - check
Car seat wiped down and installed in backseat - check
Pediatrician selected and baby health research prep - check
Phone tree finalized - check
Physically, emotionally and spiritually ready - check
Laundry & house clean - check
Birth music play list - pending
Schedule pedicure - pending

Something's missing! I just need one healthy little baby.

Sammy's Nursery [Highlights 4]

2011-04-09T21:58:00.000-05:00

Sammy’s Nursery Highlights 4

Sammy's Nursery [Highlights 3]

2011-04-07T17:41:00.000-05:00

Sammy’s Nursery Highlights 3

A Note of Thanks [Part Two]

2011-04-07T08:59:00.002-05:00

Tim and I had a really great discussion at dinner last night on my blog post yesterday. Tim has observed how in the university setting, students are not challenged to write. Students don't write like they use to and teachers don't want to spend the time grading the assignments. For philosophy, it is crucial for students to learn how to properly express themselves in words. There's an expectation that they are able to construct a rational argument in response to any given reading assignment and this isn't as easy at it might seem.

How sad that students struggle to pen their words because the standard for education has lessened. I'm glad that Tim takes the extra time to comment on papers and provide guidance to students who struggle in this area. There are gems in the academic world, don't think I'm slamming teachers as a whole. Some teachers just send their students off to the writing lab vs. working with them one-on-one first to help them understand why there's a concern for their writing in the first place. Professors need to be the ones to help students find the value in writing so that they can make the most of their education. Then writing labs can serve as a secondary reinforcement as needed.

Consider how social media has impacted writing. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, etc. all encourage individuals to write brief "posts" on their lives. Similiar to text messages, the next generation is growing up without the opportunity to express themselves thoroughly through writing. Our culture is "dumbing down". It's a general lack of discipline.

Some are hesitant to comment during classroom discussions, blog posts, or other areas of group discussion because they feel their opinion might offend or be taken the wrong way. Tim often gets this impression from students. We must learn to engage in debate, not for arguements sake, but for the sake of the great discussion of our lives. We need to challenge our minds and our hearts to consider new things, to provide insight where someone else might be lacking, to welcome sound reasoning.

A Note of Thanks

2011-04-06T15:19:00.016-05:00

Sitting at my grandmother's desk writing
someone, somewhere a note.

For as long as I can remember, the mind set of showing appreciation for gifts received was properly expressed in a thank you note. Not just any thank you note, but one that was hand-written.

Slowly this has become a foreign idea. Why? Maybe folks are too busy that they can't sit down at a desk and in the stillness of a moment share a few words of appreciation. Maybe it's a heart issue and we're just selfish.  It could be a sign of the times as we become more electronic and the practice of writing is non-existent! (Same thing's true of the blogging world. I write posts and know that my audience is much larger than it may seem because people fail to leave comments.)

A few weekends back I had two baby showers that were both very well attended. Probably fifty plus folks at my work and twenty to thirty from my church family. Each and every one of them have either received (or will be soon) a hand written note of appreciation from me. I don't share this to brag, but that in the process of receiving, we need to remember to take the time to give back.  Many of my colleagues were pleasantly surprised and incredibly grateful for the notes, I don't think they're used to getting them. It's amazing how a few words of gratitude can plant seeds of love in someone's life, so why not? For me, it's an opportunity to bless someone who's blessed me, that's a good godly perspective to have.

And this doesn't have to be for just milestones like weddings, babies, etc. Why not send a random note of appreciation for a kind word, or a listening ear, or after sharing a meal together? The lost art of writing needs to be rekindled in our generation or I fear our children will be raised with a lack of gratitude. And is not writing a note an outward reflection of a prayer said within the heart? Does our lack of gratitude demonstrate a lack of prayer life too?

Maybe it's a matter of creativity. We want to communicate something but we don't know how. I have a friend who loves to write poetry and she creates wonderful words of reflection on a regular basis to hand out to friends and family. Or maybe you're someone who's more visual.  My mother-in-law creates "photo" cards on her computer capturing recent events and then includes an update within. What a great use for all those digital photos captured that would otherwise go to waste because we don't print them out to share.  Allow the photographs to paint the canvas of a blank piece of paper and then insert your thoughts and reflections. Maybe you're more a gift giver. Prepare a fresh bouquet of spring flowers from your garden or bake a batch of cookies for that faithful person in your life. Give them something and just say thanks for all you do. Again, something small can go a long way with a personal touch.

On another level, how often do we intentionally say thank you when we are with others? "Thank you for having us over for dinner." "Thank you for letting me borrow your tools." This is a behavior that we have to learn to be intentional about. It is good and pleasing to the ear and to the Lord for a person to verbally share a word of appreciation. "Thank you for your hard work on that project." Words of affirmation don't have to be restricted to the workplace and our careers, we should be practicing them with our spouses, our children, our neighbors. For some folks, words of affirmation are their love language.  This is true of many men. It's a sign of respect and pride.

I say all of this to tie back to my main point reflecting on the importance of pausing to give thanks. It's about allowing God to mold our hearts by sacrificing a little bit of our time for the benefit of others and the joy it should bring to us in acknowledging those God has placed in our lives for a purpose.

Animal Sounds & Child Vaccinations

2011-04-05T21:04:00.001-05:00

While child vaccinations are an important and serious matter, things got a little silly in the household tonight when Tim began reading the list of ingredients for one particular vaccination. Monkey and cow parts followed by a "Meow" sound from me. Why a meow? Well, it seemed like every other random animal had been included and I thought it would be funny. Then the discussion went downhill.

It was like we were at Cub Scout Round table, a monthly adult Scout leader meeting where they demonstrate Scouting ideas. Often times they would include stories with interactive words where certain parts of the audience would chime in with a sound or a saying. So every time you hear monkey parts let me hear a good "uh-uh-ah-ah-ah!" and every time I say cow you go "moooooo". We finally got through the chapter but it is quite amazing all that goes in to some of these shots. Then add in the Public health perspective and the American patriotism the author mentions and when they say you should start humming "America the Beautiful" I chimed in with a completely random (but patriot) song that got Tim and I laughing so hard he was concerned I might go in to labor. (Note: No contractions came of the reading of this book.)

In short, Scouting has only heightened our appreciation for silliness as a couple and animal sounds are an encouraged form of communication wherever humor can be inserted within a conversation.

37 1/2 Weeks

2011-04-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Well, this entire pregnancy I've been pretty amused by my belly button. First there was the shock that it's wasn't what it once was (see post). Then, it changed colors and changed more than I thought it would (see post). This week, it has popped out. Not as much as I've seen on other gals, but enough for me to throw in the towel and say, this belly button is now what it never was before and if I was a turkey on Thanksgiving day, I'd be done. Yet, nothing else would indicate to us that Sammy would arrive sooner than anticipated. No contractors or discomfort, etc. that you would expect. I feel good except Tim's amused that in the early evening he will notice that things get quiet in the other room where I would be working on a project and boom, mama's found fast asleep in the rocking chair.

Tim was able to speak to the admin in the graduate office yesterday and they're hoping to schedule his oral exam for sometime next week. They are aware of Sammy's due date and would be understanding if given the situation, Tim wasn't able to make it because I was in labor, etc. Apparently they're wrapping up this semester's qualifying exam orals and then will begin with Tim's doctorate orals. It's amazing how many "rights of passage" Tim has had to go through during his time at UD. We were experiencing that exam series this time last year.

I'm receiving a lot more comments on how large my belly is, but it really hasn't changed in the past few weeks. I think people just don't know how to control their tongues, but as an expectant mother, you just learn to brush it off after hearing comments for how long now? I have to remind myself that I'm still taking everything in and this is just others way of verbally communicating the same reactions I feel, but sometimes don't say in public. But Tim and I both agree, it's a big ole baby belly. But we have enjoyed our evening walks together, working on last minute projects for the nursery and reading books together. We realize any day our lives may change, so we just take each as they come.

I will admit, I'm not the expectant mother who feels like I want this baby out of me, now! I would be perfectly content if Sammy chose to stay put past his due date. We have an offer to see the symphony next weekend and I have a court date I've been asked to be a witness in the week after. But I have absolutely no control of the situation and haven't this entire time. But I can chime in with my opinion and make my requests known and see what happens. Plus, the further along in the semester we go, the less complicated it makes it for Tim but people have babies every day and university professors do just fine balancing their classes and their families. I think the other reason I'm open to a delayed arrival is that I've had a very mild pregnancy. If there had been more complications along the way, I could understand why women would want to move on to the next phase, motherhood!

Deep down, I can't wait to hold that little guy in my arms but I've waited a long time for this moment, so my patience has been tested the past four years. A few more weeks doesn't seem like a big deal to a woman who's wanted a child as long as me. God has been so good to us, I'll take him whenever the Lord sees fit with sweet anticipation!

Texas Roses

2011-04-04T20:29:00.000-05:00

Roses 2011

Sammy's Nursery [Highlights 2]

2011-04-04T20:17:00.003-05:00

Sammy’s Nursery Highlights 2