AJU5 was having a problem with her diapers leaking at night. She ended up with a wet pajama pants every morning for a week. So, I bought some Huggies Overnights to try last week. After 8 days of use, we have yet to have a wet pair of pajama pants in the morning! The diapers are just as heavy as they were before, but these ones seem to hold the moisture a lot better! So, we are sticking with them.
Now, the only downside of these is that they are more expensive than standard diapers. At diapers.com, they cost $0.39 each versus $0.27 for the Huggies Snug n' Dry (note: I don't buy from diapers.com, but it was an easy place to look up the price!). But, being able to wear a pair of pajamas two nights in a row and not having to decide if the bed needs to be changed makes it worth it! If we ever go on long car rides again, I will be using these as well. AJU5 did leak some on our trip to the in-laws last time... But, we don't plan on driving anywhere for a while!
Have you used these diapers or similar ones? What do you think about them?
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Another Random Post
So, yeah, I don't think I can write one post about one thing - just not happening these days. Well, I might be able to get the Product Review post done, but that is about it :) So, now for the "laundry list" of topics:
1. I had my regular OB appointment today. I have gained 17 pounds so far - about 10 in the last four weeks! I definitely need to lay off the sweets and snacks. But, it is something I can do. Plus, AJU5 is letting me take her for walks again (even asking to go), so that should help me keep my weight in check!
2. Also on the OB front, I have decided to try the VBAC. My doctor told me that they will watch me like a hawk during labor and push the epidural. I am okay with that (although I have no problem trying to go natural either). They just want to be able to rush me to the OR if necessary. The main reason for my decision - stairs! You aren't supposed to do up and down stairs much at all for at least two weeks after a c-section. With the bedrooms upstairs and the living areas downstairs, I see that as being a big challenge for me! Yes, I can sleep in the recliners, on the couch, or even pull out the hide-a-bed if necessary. But, I will want a shower pretty much every day, and all of my clothes are upstairs... Yeah, not having to avoid stairs would be nice!
3. AJU5 is eating a little better. We have moved her chair to the table and stopped using the tray. We had offered this to her before, but she wanted her tray back. Now she is happy to eat at the table with us. So, hopefully that was a lot of her issue! We are also working on getting to one noon or later nap. Yesterday was a success - today is a little more challenging because I think she is about ready to go down, and it is an hour too early...
I think that is it... But it probably isn't... I will probably remember something when I am busy and then forget it by the time I am at the computer... Silly pregnancy brain!
1. I had my regular OB appointment today. I have gained 17 pounds so far - about 10 in the last four weeks! I definitely need to lay off the sweets and snacks. But, it is something I can do. Plus, AJU5 is letting me take her for walks again (even asking to go), so that should help me keep my weight in check!
2. Also on the OB front, I have decided to try the VBAC. My doctor told me that they will watch me like a hawk during labor and push the epidural. I am okay with that (although I have no problem trying to go natural either). They just want to be able to rush me to the OR if necessary. The main reason for my decision - stairs! You aren't supposed to do up and down stairs much at all for at least two weeks after a c-section. With the bedrooms upstairs and the living areas downstairs, I see that as being a big challenge for me! Yes, I can sleep in the recliners, on the couch, or even pull out the hide-a-bed if necessary. But, I will want a shower pretty much every day, and all of my clothes are upstairs... Yeah, not having to avoid stairs would be nice!
3. AJU5 is eating a little better. We have moved her chair to the table and stopped using the tray. We had offered this to her before, but she wanted her tray back. Now she is happy to eat at the table with us. So, hopefully that was a lot of her issue! We are also working on getting to one noon or later nap. Yesterday was a success - today is a little more challenging because I think she is about ready to go down, and it is an hour too early...
I think that is it... But it probably isn't... I will probably remember something when I am busy and then forget it by the time I am at the computer... Silly pregnancy brain!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Pregnancy Brain
I can't remember what all has happened in the last few days! I know we did things and I have thought of blog topics, but I can't remember them. So here are a few things I do remember!
1. AJU5 is on an eating strike I think. She will eat a good breakfast (half a waffle or more), but then she won't eat anything but snacks for the rest of the day. Today we tried to not let her have snacks, and it didn't help! She did eventually eat some peas at dinner and then some cheese later luckily. I guess she just isn't hungry - but it is a big change from how she used to eat!
2. I am definitely going to look into swimming lessons for AJU5 next year. Today in the bath tub she floated on her back while holding my hands. And she did it over and over and over again (much to my dislike because it isn't that comfortable). She will also float with a hand under her head or on my shoulder. I think I will take her to the pool later this week so she can play! I don't like Mommy-and-Me swim lessons because they don't learn much. I used to teach them, and I thought the parents were wasting their money because they could do those things on their own! So, hopefully we will be able to convince them to let AJU5 in the a preschool class next summer even though she will only be 2.5! I learned to swin the summer I turned three, so I guess it is in her blood :)
3. AJU5 can be a lot of fun if she is in a good mood. Tonight, we played hide and seek (Daddy hid and AJU5 found him while I just laid on the bed laughing). Then I found them laying on the bean bags with blankets acting like they were going night-night. We have also been working on pentomino puzzles as a family - although she isn't much help! It is just fun to watch her learn to use her imagination and grow!
Now I think it is bed time... I am tired and I even got an afternoon nap. Junior is just sucking the life out of me!
1. AJU5 is on an eating strike I think. She will eat a good breakfast (half a waffle or more), but then she won't eat anything but snacks for the rest of the day. Today we tried to not let her have snacks, and it didn't help! She did eventually eat some peas at dinner and then some cheese later luckily. I guess she just isn't hungry - but it is a big change from how she used to eat!
2. I am definitely going to look into swimming lessons for AJU5 next year. Today in the bath tub she floated on her back while holding my hands. And she did it over and over and over again (much to my dislike because it isn't that comfortable). She will also float with a hand under her head or on my shoulder. I think I will take her to the pool later this week so she can play! I don't like Mommy-and-Me swim lessons because they don't learn much. I used to teach them, and I thought the parents were wasting their money because they could do those things on their own! So, hopefully we will be able to convince them to let AJU5 in the a preschool class next summer even though she will only be 2.5! I learned to swin the summer I turned three, so I guess it is in her blood :)
3. AJU5 can be a lot of fun if she is in a good mood. Tonight, we played hide and seek (Daddy hid and AJU5 found him while I just laid on the bed laughing). Then I found them laying on the bean bags with blankets acting like they were going night-night. We have also been working on pentomino puzzles as a family - although she isn't much help! It is just fun to watch her learn to use her imagination and grow!
Now I think it is bed time... I am tired and I even got an afternoon nap. Junior is just sucking the life out of me!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Home Improvement Saturday - Exterior Doors
So, a few weeks ago I posted about replacing interior doors. Exterior doors aren't too much different. The big difference is that exterior doors have a threshold. This is usual a piece of metal at the bottom of the door used to keep the weather out of the house. If you look at the exterior doors in your house, you should see it when you open the door! It is what you step over/on to get in. If you purchase a pre-hung exterior door (i.e. with frame), the threshold will be there already.
So, how does this make installation different? It just adds a few steps so you can make the door weather-tight. Once you remove the old door and frame (same process as interior doors - you may need a prybar to get the old threshold up though), then you need to clean the bottom area well. You want it to be smooth as well, so scrape off any old caulk, etc with a metal scraper. Then, if the base is wood, apply some weather sealing tape. It is a rubber material that keeps the water out of the wood. It comes in rolls and is easy to apply. Just follow the directions on the package! Then, you will be ready to caulk the bottom to create a seal between the base and the threshold. Follow the directions on the door as to how much and where to apply it. From there, it is very similar to installing an interior door. Normally you use screws instead of nails (so it is more secure), but that is the big difference. Once the door is installed, make sure to insulate any gaps or cracks. We like the spray foam in a can. It works really well and gets in and around the screws, etc. Just spray the stuff in and let it expand and dry. Once it is dry, you can cut the excess away with any knife.
That is it! So, if you have a tired, worn out front or back door - replace it! You can even change a sliding glass door into a french door fairly simply (hardest part - removing the glass doors without breaking them!).
(I couldn't find a picture of the front and garage doors. The three posted were all sliding doors originally. Only the office still has a sliding door.)
Friday, July 24, 2009
Product Review Friday - Riding Toys
Okay, so I mentioned a while ago I bought AJU5 the Leap Frog Firetruck ride-on toy. Overall, it is a great toy. But, what makes it great isn't the Leap Frog part - it is the ride on part. I think any similar style ride-on would be just as much a hit!
When AJU5's cousins were here a few weeks ago, the two boys (2.5 and 4.5) played with it a lot! So, it is a toy that fits large age groups. We actually have friends with similar ones that their almost 6 year old can still play with (she is almost too big though). For $20-$40, I think it is worth it for sure!
Now, what I don't like - the lack of volume control on these things! AJU5 likes pushing the buttons and all. I don't mind that she likes that part - they are almost all educational (shapes, numbers, colors, etc). But, it is very loud! It is louder than our TV most of the time (i.e. when we aren't watching action-packed shows/movies). Why can't they put a volume control on them? The "standard" volume could be the loudest, but then parents could turn it down some to. Another thing I would have liked is an on/off switch. Yes, you can take the batteries out, but that involves a screwdriver. So, it isn't practical for turning it off for a short period of time.
If I had it to do again, I would try to find a basic one without sounds, etc and save that for another (separate) toy. But, they are harder to find it seems (all of the ones I have seen in stores lately have had sound). So, I will deal with what we have and enjoy the fact that it can keep her entertained for a while. She even likes to give her stuffed animals and baby doll rides!
Do you have a ride on toy for your kids? Do you like it?
When AJU5's cousins were here a few weeks ago, the two boys (2.5 and 4.5) played with it a lot! So, it is a toy that fits large age groups. We actually have friends with similar ones that their almost 6 year old can still play with (she is almost too big though). For $20-$40, I think it is worth it for sure!
Now, what I don't like - the lack of volume control on these things! AJU5 likes pushing the buttons and all. I don't mind that she likes that part - they are almost all educational (shapes, numbers, colors, etc). But, it is very loud! It is louder than our TV most of the time (i.e. when we aren't watching action-packed shows/movies). Why can't they put a volume control on them? The "standard" volume could be the loudest, but then parents could turn it down some to. Another thing I would have liked is an on/off switch. Yes, you can take the batteries out, but that involves a screwdriver. So, it isn't practical for turning it off for a short period of time.
If I had it to do again, I would try to find a basic one without sounds, etc and save that for another (separate) toy. But, they are harder to find it seems (all of the ones I have seen in stores lately have had sound). So, I will deal with what we have and enjoy the fact that it can keep her entertained for a while. She even likes to give her stuffed animals and baby doll rides!
Do you have a ride on toy for your kids? Do you like it?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Birthday in Review
Well, today is my birthday. It didn't start of great, but at least it was DEFINITELY better than the last time I was pregnant and had a birthday! AJU5 cried at 2ish this morning. She put herself back down, but I woke up anyways. I didn't sleep great from then on. She did "agree" to stay in bed until after 7 though, so that was nice (i.e. she didn't cry or yell before then although I did hear her a few times talking). Shortly after getting her up, I felt nauseous. Yeah, morning sickness is still there! Luckily Zofran did the trick again. After it kicked in, it was like a normal day. I did take a bath while AJU5 napped this morning instead of my normal shower. Then we went to Target. We didn't get much, but we did look around for quite a while. I treated us to a pretzel and soda when we were done. I was going to go to the grocery store and get a cheese cake or other dessert, but I heard her making a mess in the back seat. I made the mistake of allowing her to have the soda on the way. She had opened it and was playing with the fruit punch. Obviously I didn't want to take her into a store covered in fruit punch (mainly because I didn't want to get covered as well). So, we just went home.
I had AJU1 grill some meat tonight - chicken sausage. So, all I had to prepare was the starch (heated up tortillas) and vegetable (microwaved some peas). AJU1 tried to keep AJU5 entertained for me as well, but that didn't always work. At least she normally just wanted me in the same room as her - laying on the couch was fine with her while she danced around! After a little pestering, AJU1 showed me what he has ordered for me - a sewing machine. It hasn't shipped yet (to our knowledge), but I think we might go look at stores to get ideas of what to make first :) I am not a great sewer, but I can do some of the basics and like to play around.
Now that AJU5 is in bed, AJU1 has been instructed to get me a bowl of ice cream (in 25 minutes - time determined before putting AJU5 down) and then I am going to relax. We might watch a movie or just TV - we will see.
So, another year older. I definitely don't feel older. It doesn't seem like high school and college were that long ago until I see how young of them look now! Hopefully I won't feel a lot older next year with two little ones adding grey hairs to my head!
I had AJU1 grill some meat tonight - chicken sausage. So, all I had to prepare was the starch (heated up tortillas) and vegetable (microwaved some peas). AJU1 tried to keep AJU5 entertained for me as well, but that didn't always work. At least she normally just wanted me in the same room as her - laying on the couch was fine with her while she danced around! After a little pestering, AJU1 showed me what he has ordered for me - a sewing machine. It hasn't shipped yet (to our knowledge), but I think we might go look at stores to get ideas of what to make first :) I am not a great sewer, but I can do some of the basics and like to play around.
Now that AJU5 is in bed, AJU1 has been instructed to get me a bowl of ice cream (in 25 minutes - time determined before putting AJU5 down) and then I am going to relax. We might watch a movie or just TV - we will see.
So, another year older. I definitely don't feel older. It doesn't seem like high school and college were that long ago until I see how young of them look now! Hopefully I won't feel a lot older next year with two little ones adding grey hairs to my head!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Daddy
AJU5 hasn't had too much daddy time lately. He has had to travel the past two weeks for work and has had to work a little later than normal too (preparing for the trips). So, she wasn't sure about him being home on Saturday after his trip. She clung to me for a little bit. But, eventually he won her over again. We joked that she was mad at him for leaving her with her grandparents while he enjoyed the quiet!
The two of them had to cracking up twice this weekend. First, AJU5 insisted that Daddy dance with her to the music on the exersaucer. It was hilarious watching him mimic her moves! I told him I should get some video fo them dancing, and he threatened to kill me. Hmph!
The second time was when she wanted to pull him around. We have a plastic wash container thing that Daddy pulls AJU5 around in sometimes (ribbon attached through the hole in the handle). AJU5 has pulled her teddies and dolls around in it too (and requested we do the same). Well, Sunday she got the idea that she should pull Daddy! Obviously she is not strong enough, so Daddy had to help. He put one knee in the container and then scooted along behind her. She was so happy! Again, I wanted video but AJU1 threatened to hurt me.
It is so fun to watch the two of them play! AJU1 grew up with only brothers. On his mom's side of the family, there is only one girl cousin and she lives far away (he has never been close to the cousins on his dad's side because they are all older). So, he obviously wanted boys only - no girls. But, he is great with girls! He is great with our niece. I don't know what he would do if AJU5 turned all girlie, but as long as she is middle of the road or a tomboy, he will be great!
What is your favorite thing to watch daddy and toddler do?
The two of them had to cracking up twice this weekend. First, AJU5 insisted that Daddy dance with her to the music on the exersaucer. It was hilarious watching him mimic her moves! I told him I should get some video fo them dancing, and he threatened to kill me. Hmph!
The second time was when she wanted to pull him around. We have a plastic wash container thing that Daddy pulls AJU5 around in sometimes (ribbon attached through the hole in the handle). AJU5 has pulled her teddies and dolls around in it too (and requested we do the same). Well, Sunday she got the idea that she should pull Daddy! Obviously she is not strong enough, so Daddy had to help. He put one knee in the container and then scooted along behind her. She was so happy! Again, I wanted video but AJU1 threatened to hurt me.
It is so fun to watch the two of them play! AJU1 grew up with only brothers. On his mom's side of the family, there is only one girl cousin and she lives far away (he has never been close to the cousins on his dad's side because they are all older). So, he obviously wanted boys only - no girls. But, he is great with girls! He is great with our niece. I don't know what he would do if AJU5 turned all girlie, but as long as she is middle of the road or a tomboy, he will be great!
What is your favorite thing to watch daddy and toddler do?
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Parents
My parents were in town the past few days. They got here Wednesday afternoon and left early this morning. Having them around is a mixed blessing. My dad is great. My mom can get annoying...
Wednesday night they watched AJU5 while AJU1 and I went to church. Mom forgot that I told her AJU5 gets a cup in bed, but other than that, there were no issues. I ended up having to snuggle with AJU5 in the middle of the night, but eventually she went back down and they got her up in the morning so I got another hour of sleep. Thursday we went to the splash park for about 45 minutes. AJU5 had a blast other than freezing. She definitely is starting to get the hang of going through the water now! Thursday afternoon I had my ultrasound (I just told my parents it was a doctor's appointment - easier!) and then Dad made steak for dinner.
Thursday night went by with no issues. Friday morning again Dad got AJU5 up when she whimpered about an hour earlier than normal (I thought she had gone back to bed). After a morning nap for AJU5, we went to the mall on the other side of town that had Build-a-Bear. AJU5 got a kitty, although she was not sure of the whole ordeal! She did fall in love with a lunch box thing and carried it for most of our remaining time at the mall. After Build-a-Bear, we had lunch and then explored the mall. It had a playground area, so we let her play for a good amount of time (holding on to her lunch box of course). Then we checked out Children's Place for clothes - but found nothing! Then we went to JcPenney. I had to get AJU1 some shirts and we looked again for something for AJU5 (with no luck). By this point, AJU5 was done. Bad news - I forgot her pacifier and it was a long ride home witha screaming little girl. She crashed about 2 miles from our house and went down for a nap as soon as I got her out of the car. I got a nap too, so I was happy!
For dinner, we went to a Teppan Yaki place. It has become and annual tradition. My parents come up in July near my birthday because they have a time share in a neighboring state (we are about 2/3 of the way there from their home). So, the last three years we have gone to this restaurant for my birthday dinner. The first time I threw up at the restaurant (in the bathroom luckily) because of the kidney infection AJU5 "caused" in utero (I didn't know it was a kidney infection for another 4 days though). So, last year I wanted to go again to "redeem" what I missed the first time. This year it was just the best option. There is only one restaurant I like more in town, but it isn't pregnancy friendly. It is an all-you-can-eat Brazilian grill! I love the food, but I knew if I had that I would feel bad for a while! AJU5 loved the fire and liked eating with sticks (I skewered her food for her with chopsticks).
So, all in all it was a busy few days. AJU5 warmed up to my parents, but she still preferred me. She always wanted to know where I was. Luckily she napped during my ultrasound and didn't notice I was gone! I did get frustrated with my mom, but I held it in. She is quick to respond to things like other kids interferring with AJU5's play on the playground. Personally, as long as the kid isn't doing anything that could hurt AJU5, I don't care, AJU5 needs to learn to deal with the kids on her own, especially if they are just trying to play too. She also has a volume problem which can give me a headache and thinks she is right/knows a lot that she really doesn't. That is why there is a 2-3 day maximum around her. My siblings have the same rule. My dad understands our rule. It works great :)
Oh yeah, AJU1 planned things great this time (not on purpose though). He left EARLY Thursday morning for a work trip and doesn't get back until early this afternoon. So, he basically missed their whole visit. My brother-in-law was jealous when he heard about it last weekend!
Oh, and as for why I didn't tell my parents about the ultrasound - mom likes to know the gender. We like to be surprised. So, if I had told mom before the appointment she would have bugged me. Then it was just easier to say everything is fine than to explain.
Okay, that was a lot of rambling. But, two full days will do that!
Now to pick up around the house and get things back to normal!
Wednesday night they watched AJU5 while AJU1 and I went to church. Mom forgot that I told her AJU5 gets a cup in bed, but other than that, there were no issues. I ended up having to snuggle with AJU5 in the middle of the night, but eventually she went back down and they got her up in the morning so I got another hour of sleep. Thursday we went to the splash park for about 45 minutes. AJU5 had a blast other than freezing. She definitely is starting to get the hang of going through the water now! Thursday afternoon I had my ultrasound (I just told my parents it was a doctor's appointment - easier!) and then Dad made steak for dinner.
Thursday night went by with no issues. Friday morning again Dad got AJU5 up when she whimpered about an hour earlier than normal (I thought she had gone back to bed). After a morning nap for AJU5, we went to the mall on the other side of town that had Build-a-Bear. AJU5 got a kitty, although she was not sure of the whole ordeal! She did fall in love with a lunch box thing and carried it for most of our remaining time at the mall. After Build-a-Bear, we had lunch and then explored the mall. It had a playground area, so we let her play for a good amount of time (holding on to her lunch box of course). Then we checked out Children's Place for clothes - but found nothing! Then we went to JcPenney. I had to get AJU1 some shirts and we looked again for something for AJU5 (with no luck). By this point, AJU5 was done. Bad news - I forgot her pacifier and it was a long ride home witha screaming little girl. She crashed about 2 miles from our house and went down for a nap as soon as I got her out of the car. I got a nap too, so I was happy!
For dinner, we went to a Teppan Yaki place. It has become and annual tradition. My parents come up in July near my birthday because they have a time share in a neighboring state (we are about 2/3 of the way there from their home). So, the last three years we have gone to this restaurant for my birthday dinner. The first time I threw up at the restaurant (in the bathroom luckily) because of the kidney infection AJU5 "caused" in utero (I didn't know it was a kidney infection for another 4 days though). So, last year I wanted to go again to "redeem" what I missed the first time. This year it was just the best option. There is only one restaurant I like more in town, but it isn't pregnancy friendly. It is an all-you-can-eat Brazilian grill! I love the food, but I knew if I had that I would feel bad for a while! AJU5 loved the fire and liked eating with sticks (I skewered her food for her with chopsticks).
So, all in all it was a busy few days. AJU5 warmed up to my parents, but she still preferred me. She always wanted to know where I was. Luckily she napped during my ultrasound and didn't notice I was gone! I did get frustrated with my mom, but I held it in. She is quick to respond to things like other kids interferring with AJU5's play on the playground. Personally, as long as the kid isn't doing anything that could hurt AJU5, I don't care, AJU5 needs to learn to deal with the kids on her own, especially if they are just trying to play too. She also has a volume problem which can give me a headache and thinks she is right/knows a lot that she really doesn't. That is why there is a 2-3 day maximum around her. My siblings have the same rule. My dad understands our rule. It works great :)
Oh yeah, AJU1 planned things great this time (not on purpose though). He left EARLY Thursday morning for a work trip and doesn't get back until early this afternoon. So, he basically missed their whole visit. My brother-in-law was jealous when he heard about it last weekend!
Oh, and as for why I didn't tell my parents about the ultrasound - mom likes to know the gender. We like to be surprised. So, if I had told mom before the appointment she would have bugged me. Then it was just easier to say everything is fine than to explain.
Okay, that was a lot of rambling. But, two full days will do that!
Now to pick up around the house and get things back to normal!
Friday, July 17, 2009
MIxed Feelings
One of our friends from church gave birth to her son this week. She was due a week before with (with Junior #2). It is hard to believe that if I hadn't miscarried, I would have a baby in my arms within the next few weeks. I think being pregnant again is helping me not be sad over this. I can feel Junior #3 move around. I got to see him/her yesterday at my 20 week ultrasound (we are waiting until birth to find out the gender). I know this is the baby God wants me to raise, not the one we lost 7 months ago. But, I still feel weird about it - not sad per se, but, yeah, I don't know...
Then I found out last night someone I knew from grad school (he was an undergrad) died. From Facebook, I figured out he was sick, but that is all I know. The messages about him being sick are less than a week old, so I know it wasn't a long fight. He was a Christian. We were friends at a campus ministry. He was about four years younger than me an recently married. I guess it was a wake up call to me. Life as I know it can change in a second. We don't know when our life here on earth will end. So, we have to make the most of every minute we have.
Happier post to come next!
I will get back to the product review/home improvement things next week I bet.
Then I found out last night someone I knew from grad school (he was an undergrad) died. From Facebook, I figured out he was sick, but that is all I know. The messages about him being sick are less than a week old, so I know it wasn't a long fight. He was a Christian. We were friends at a campus ministry. He was about four years younger than me an recently married. I guess it was a wake up call to me. Life as I know it can change in a second. We don't know when our life here on earth will end. So, we have to make the most of every minute we have.
Happier post to come next!
I will get back to the product review/home improvement things next week I bet.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Wordless Wednesday - MIssion Trip VBS
Hanging out in one of the hotel rooms
Playing in the dirt
Eating Ice Cream - No Hands!
Working on a Craft
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
20 Weeks (and a few days)...
So, 20 weeks has brought on new fun - morning sickness is now morning sickness and not afternoon sickness! Yeah, I almost threw up this morning. I have dry-heaved the past few days. So, I am back to taking a Zofran in the morning. Luckily, I got a new prescription from my doctor two weeks ago - 3 rounds of 20 pills. That should last me at least two months :) I definitely think it is worse this time around than with AJU5. By this point with her, I was feeling well most days. Around week 22, I had some bad days, but we were traveling and eating differently, which may have caused part of the problem. All I can say is ugh!
Thursday I have the "big" ultrasound. AJU1 won't be able to come because he leaves on a work trip that day. My parents will be here, but I think I will just tell them I have a doctor's appointment until I get back. We like to wait until delivery to find out the gender, but my mom likes to know! This way I won't have her pestering me :) They can watch AJU5 while I am gone anyways!
Oh, and I do have a little baby belly these days. It is a little flabbier than I would like, but if I wear certain shirts it does look like I am pregnant (vs. just being chubby). Unfortunately those tops are three-quarter sleeves and it is almost 100 here today. So, I am stuck with the t-shirts that just leave me looking a little chubby...
Thursday I have the "big" ultrasound. AJU1 won't be able to come because he leaves on a work trip that day. My parents will be here, but I think I will just tell them I have a doctor's appointment until I get back. We like to wait until delivery to find out the gender, but my mom likes to know! This way I won't have her pestering me :) They can watch AJU5 while I am gone anyways!
Oh, and I do have a little baby belly these days. It is a little flabbier than I would like, but if I wear certain shirts it does look like I am pregnant (vs. just being chubby). Unfortunately those tops are three-quarter sleeves and it is almost 100 here today. So, I am stuck with the t-shirts that just leave me looking a little chubby...
Monday, July 13, 2009
AJU5's Room
This is what her room looks like when it is clean. The futon will go when we get the bunk beds. We haven't decided for sure what wall gets the bunk beds and which wall gets the crib though (and eventually where the two beds go when they are taken apart). As you can see, it is a boring room right now - no real decoartions. I want to put at least two sets of pictures up (of hot air balloons) once we decide where the "empty" walls will be. I haven't decided if I am going to hang the "Jesus Loves Me" needle work (in the book shelf now) or not. It was my husband's when he was a little kid, and it is very nice. But, I just don't know where I would put it! Same thing goes for the Pooh rug thing on top of the dresser now - was my husband's and looks nice. But, I don't know where I would put it...
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Returning to Normal
Ah,, life is back to normal for a few days. The last week was a blast, but boy was I behind on sleep this morning before a four hour nap!
Last Saturday we had friends over for the Fourth. They arrived around 5:30, we had dinner at 6, let the kids play until 7:30, put them down for the night, and played games until midnight. AJU5 woke up around 100:15 because there were constant fireworks going off in our neighborhood. Luckily, we were able to get her back down after the friends left (with only a few whimpers between then and 2 when the fireworks stopped). Sleep lost: 2-3 hours
Sunday we got up and went to church. Immediately following church, we left for the VBS trip. So, there was no sleeping in! We got to our destination around 4, hung out at the hotel, and then went to church there (6-7). After church there was a meeting with all the groups doing VBS that week and then headed to Carl's Jrs for dinner. After dinner, I planned on putting AJU5 down for the night (it was around 8:30), but she had other plans. She wanted to play with her friends! SO, we went to the late=night meeting and returned to the room around 9:30. She refused to sleep in her bed (pack-n-play), so it was a fitful night with her in bed with me! Sleep lost: about an hour
Monday AJU5 didn't nap well. We had the morning off and then went door-knocking to invite kids to VBS. I tired to get her to nap before lunch, but she refused. She did nap some in the van along the way though. That night we went to dinner around 6 and she fell asleep on the way back to the hotel and stayed down all night. Sleep lost: None (minus a possible afternoon nap)
Tuesday was the first day of VBS. We left around 8:45 in the morning and returned to the hotel around 1:30 each day. AJU5 always napped on the way back to the hotel, but she never slept more than an hour or so. As for bed, I was hoping to repeat Monday. We went to dinner earlier because the teens were going hiking that night, so I guess 6 was too early for bedtime. It wasn't until about 8:30/9:00 I got her to sleep in my bed (again, pack-n-play refused). So, another fitbul night of sleep for me sharing a bed with her! Sleep lost: About an hour
Naps for Wednesday were the same. But, we had church at night! We didn't get back to the hotel until 8ish. And again, she "required" my bed and body to sleep. She didn't drop off until after 9, and like almost every other day was up by 6:30. Sleep lost: About an hour
Thursday morning we packed up 90% of our things before VBS. We didn't leave VBS until later because we had to clean and take everything down. So, we didn't get back to the hotel until about 2:30. I finished loading our car and we hit the road. Luckily for me, she fell asleep about 30 minutes into the trip home. That was 30 minutes of crying, but she did crash. We got home around 5, and had 3 hours before my sister and her family arrived. AJU5 got a bath and then we hung out and watched TV for a little bit. I tired to get her to bed around 7:30, but she had none of it. Finally, around 9, she went down (after eating some more and playing with her cousins). The rest of us went to bed around 10:30. Sleep lost: about 1.5 hours
Friday we went ot he park and played and then hung out inside for the afternoon because it was quite warm outside. AJU5 napped some after breakfast, but then refused an afternoon nap, probably because her cousing was napping the in the same room and he had two of her stuffed animals! After dinner, she was more than willing to go down for bed. But, her cousins woke her up when they went to bed because they were not happy about it (crying). We tried to get her back down, btu she treated it like she had had a nap! Finally around 11, we sent the pack-n-play up in our closet and she crashed. We didn't go to bed until almost 1 because we were up playing Eurorails - a very long game which we just stopped because we were all exhausted! She woke up 3 hours later and came into bed with us. Sleep lost: about 4 hours
So, this morning I was dead tired! I laid ont he couch until my sister and her family left around 8. Then I went back to bed until almost noon! It wasn't 4 hours of constant sleep, but it was still 4hours of resting. I feel so much more awake (although I could still take a nap if I wanted to). Life will be fairly normal around her now. My prents come in this next week for a few days, but it shouldn't affect AJU5's sleep and hence mine much at all. We don't have any other trips planned until August. So, hopefully we can get back on schedule!
Okay, that was a very long post! Pictures to come sometime :)
Last Saturday we had friends over for the Fourth. They arrived around 5:30, we had dinner at 6, let the kids play until 7:30, put them down for the night, and played games until midnight. AJU5 woke up around 100:15 because there were constant fireworks going off in our neighborhood. Luckily, we were able to get her back down after the friends left (with only a few whimpers between then and 2 when the fireworks stopped). Sleep lost: 2-3 hours
Sunday we got up and went to church. Immediately following church, we left for the VBS trip. So, there was no sleeping in! We got to our destination around 4, hung out at the hotel, and then went to church there (6-7). After church there was a meeting with all the groups doing VBS that week and then headed to Carl's Jrs for dinner. After dinner, I planned on putting AJU5 down for the night (it was around 8:30), but she had other plans. She wanted to play with her friends! SO, we went to the late=night meeting and returned to the room around 9:30. She refused to sleep in her bed (pack-n-play), so it was a fitful night with her in bed with me! Sleep lost: about an hour
Monday AJU5 didn't nap well. We had the morning off and then went door-knocking to invite kids to VBS. I tired to get her to nap before lunch, but she refused. She did nap some in the van along the way though. That night we went to dinner around 6 and she fell asleep on the way back to the hotel and stayed down all night. Sleep lost: None (minus a possible afternoon nap)
Tuesday was the first day of VBS. We left around 8:45 in the morning and returned to the hotel around 1:30 each day. AJU5 always napped on the way back to the hotel, but she never slept more than an hour or so. As for bed, I was hoping to repeat Monday. We went to dinner earlier because the teens were going hiking that night, so I guess 6 was too early for bedtime. It wasn't until about 8:30/9:00 I got her to sleep in my bed (again, pack-n-play refused). So, another fitbul night of sleep for me sharing a bed with her! Sleep lost: About an hour
Naps for Wednesday were the same. But, we had church at night! We didn't get back to the hotel until 8ish. And again, she "required" my bed and body to sleep. She didn't drop off until after 9, and like almost every other day was up by 6:30. Sleep lost: About an hour
Thursday morning we packed up 90% of our things before VBS. We didn't leave VBS until later because we had to clean and take everything down. So, we didn't get back to the hotel until about 2:30. I finished loading our car and we hit the road. Luckily for me, she fell asleep about 30 minutes into the trip home. That was 30 minutes of crying, but she did crash. We got home around 5, and had 3 hours before my sister and her family arrived. AJU5 got a bath and then we hung out and watched TV for a little bit. I tired to get her to bed around 7:30, but she had none of it. Finally, around 9, she went down (after eating some more and playing with her cousins). The rest of us went to bed around 10:30. Sleep lost: about 1.5 hours
Friday we went ot he park and played and then hung out inside for the afternoon because it was quite warm outside. AJU5 napped some after breakfast, but then refused an afternoon nap, probably because her cousing was napping the in the same room and he had two of her stuffed animals! After dinner, she was more than willing to go down for bed. But, her cousins woke her up when they went to bed because they were not happy about it (crying). We tried to get her back down, btu she treated it like she had had a nap! Finally around 11, we sent the pack-n-play up in our closet and she crashed. We didn't go to bed until almost 1 because we were up playing Eurorails - a very long game which we just stopped because we were all exhausted! She woke up 3 hours later and came into bed with us. Sleep lost: about 4 hours
So, this morning I was dead tired! I laid ont he couch until my sister and her family left around 8. Then I went back to bed until almost noon! It wasn't 4 hours of constant sleep, but it was still 4hours of resting. I feel so much more awake (although I could still take a nap if I wanted to). Life will be fairly normal around her now. My prents come in this next week for a few days, but it shouldn't affect AJU5's sleep and hence mine much at all. We don't have any other trips planned until August. So, hopefully we can get back on schedule!
Okay, that was a very long post! Pictures to come sometime :)
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Busy and Fun!
So, I am on a mini-mission trip right now. We are working a VBS for an unrepresented area (Native American chapter). We left Sunday after church, and AJU5 and I will return on Thursday (the rest of the grou is coming back on Friday).
Yesterday we went door knocking yesterday and did VBS today (three days this time because we thought we were going to be outside but ended up not). It is going fairly well. AJU5's friends from church are with us, so she is having a lot of fun playing with them. She actually spends about 2/3 of her hotel waking hours in their room playing!
THe only downside of this trip is that it has gotten her off schedule totally. Sunday night she didn't go to bed until 9:30 because we didn't get back to the hotel after church until 8:30 and then had a meeting (that she wanted to go to because her friends were going). Needless to say it wasn't a great night sleep (in bed with me). Then she didn't want to nap before the door-knocking. She did nap in the van (with her friends), but it wasn't the normal length! She crashed on the way home from dinner last night and slept the whole night in her bed! She did sleep after VBS this morning in the van again, and she is going strong so far. I bet she will crash in the van after dinner again!
So, off to dinner! I will blog about the fourth later :)
Hope everyone is having fun!
Yesterday we went door knocking yesterday and did VBS today (three days this time because we thought we were going to be outside but ended up not). It is going fairly well. AJU5's friends from church are with us, so she is having a lot of fun playing with them. She actually spends about 2/3 of her hotel waking hours in their room playing!
THe only downside of this trip is that it has gotten her off schedule totally. Sunday night she didn't go to bed until 9:30 because we didn't get back to the hotel after church until 8:30 and then had a meeting (that she wanted to go to because her friends were going). Needless to say it wasn't a great night sleep (in bed with me). Then she didn't want to nap before the door-knocking. She did nap in the van (with her friends), but it wasn't the normal length! She crashed on the way home from dinner last night and slept the whole night in her bed! She did sleep after VBS this morning in the van again, and she is going strong so far. I bet she will crash in the van after dinner again!
So, off to dinner! I will blog about the fourth later :)
Hope everyone is having fun!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Product Review Friday - Delivery Service
Okay, UPS and FedEx have made changes to the way they deliver things that makes there service terrible! They no long walk to your door, ring the bell, wait for you, hand you the box, and then leave. Now, they walk to the door, put the package down, ring the door bell, and "run" back to their truck as fast as possible. They are no longer allowed to enter homes (safety issue supposedly). That means even if you are getting a big item they need a dolly for, they will just leave it on your doorstep! This isn't terrible if your husband is home or will be home later. But, if your husband is out of town (or you are elderly, etc), yeah- big problem!
Recently we purchased an entertainment center online. It came in two boxes - both of which were very heavy. Then, we had to request two pieces be replaced (no issues there) and got two more boxes, slightly less heavy but still big (side panels). All three times they just rang the door and left. Luckily, AJU1 was only out of town when the side panels arrived, and I was able to carry those into the house. I called and complained since one of the times they didn't even ring the bell, and I was told about not entering the house. And they would remind the guys to ring the bell...
It used to be just UPS that was terrible about leaving quickly with small items. But now it is both and even with large items. It is very frustrating!
Have you experienced this?
Recently we purchased an entertainment center online. It came in two boxes - both of which were very heavy. Then, we had to request two pieces be replaced (no issues there) and got two more boxes, slightly less heavy but still big (side panels). All three times they just rang the door and left. Luckily, AJU1 was only out of town when the side panels arrived, and I was able to carry those into the house. I called and complained since one of the times they didn't even ring the bell, and I was told about not entering the house. And they would remind the guys to ring the bell...
It used to be just UPS that was terrible about leaving quickly with small items. But now it is both and even with large items. It is very frustrating!
Have you experienced this?
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Another Good Appointment
I had my check-up today. Junior #3 is doing just fine. Heart rate was in the low 150s (I forget the actual number though). I have the anatomical ultrasound in 2 weeks and my next doctor's appointment in 4.
I gained 3 pounds in 4 week s- better than the 6 pounds in 5 weeks I did in May! Hopefully I am just gaining it all early :)
I did ask about when I have to decide about the VBAC/c-section thing. She said I have a long time (I am guessing September). The one thing she did say is that we would schedule a c-section either way - but if I decide I want to try a VBAC it will be after the due date (since they won't induce you if you have had a c-section). I am totally cool with that.
Oh, and I am glad I showed up early for the appointment - they got be back VERY quickly because the patient before me was late! I was out of there pretty close to my appointment time.
I gained 3 pounds in 4 week s- better than the 6 pounds in 5 weeks I did in May! Hopefully I am just gaining it all early :)
I did ask about when I have to decide about the VBAC/c-section thing. She said I have a long time (I am guessing September). The one thing she did say is that we would schedule a c-section either way - but if I decide I want to try a VBAC it will be after the due date (since they won't induce you if you have had a c-section). I am totally cool with that.
Oh, and I am glad I showed up early for the appointment - they got be back VERY quickly because the patient before me was late! I was out of there pretty close to my appointment time.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Schedule
So, it is harder than I thought to keep AJU5 on a schedule! I know that if she naps too much the evenings are a bust. But, having a little girl who is crying at everything is no fun either. Two night ago we tried to put her down at 7 - her normal bed time (actually between 6:30-7:30). She stayed in bed for an hour - playing! At the end of the hour she got kind of cranky and we let her out. We finally got her back into bed at 9 - our bedtime! The cause for refusing to sleep - afternoon nap. She was cranky and asked to take a nap. Her morning nap had been cut short by the doctor's appointment, so I let her have another one - bad idea! Yesterday she had an hour morning nap and then a 15-20 minute nap in the car between my work and the grocery store. So, she was still below her two hour nap norm and went to bed around 6:30 without a fuss. Today she napped early - 8:30-10:30ish. Since we won't be home until 8:30ish tonight, I am actually hoping she naps this afternoon! I wish I could keep her on one schedule, but I also feel compelled to let her nap when she is obviously tired. It is a hard line to walk!
How are your kids at keeping to a schedule? Do you even try?
How are your kids at keeping to a schedule? Do you even try?
Monday, June 29, 2009
Well Toddler!
AJU5 had her 18 month check-up today. She is perfectly healthy. The only thing we have to watch for is her eyes - there is a small possibility of lazy eye, but the doctor didn't see it when she checked with the eye paddle.
Here are the stats:
32 inches tall (60th percentile)
22 lbs 5.75 oz (about 25th percentile)
48cm head circumference (75th-90th percentile)
She also behaved perfectly (other than shy and wanting to sit in the "chair" again). I was afraid she would be cranky because I had to wake her from her nap!
In other news, AJU5 has mastered putting on shoes. This is not good as we do not wear shoes in the house. Saturday she put on a mis-matched pair - one black and one white. The first time they were on the wrong feet. The second time they were on the right feet. Sunday she picked out her own shoes for church (luckily they did match) and put them on (twice ebcause AJU1 removed them when she put them on the wrong feet). Today she has put on two different shoes at different times, including one that is a snug fit (the others are all a size too big, but she doesn't mind). It will be a battle!
Here are the stats:
32 inches tall (60th percentile)
22 lbs 5.75 oz (about 25th percentile)
48cm head circumference (75th-90th percentile)
She also behaved perfectly (other than shy and wanting to sit in the "chair" again). I was afraid she would be cranky because I had to wake her from her nap!
In other news, AJU5 has mastered putting on shoes. This is not good as we do not wear shoes in the house. Saturday she put on a mis-matched pair - one black and one white. The first time they were on the wrong feet. The second time they were on the right feet. Sunday she picked out her own shoes for church (luckily they did match) and put them on (twice ebcause AJU1 removed them when she put them on the wrong feet). Today she has put on two different shoes at different times, including one that is a snug fit (the others are all a size too big, but she doesn't mind). It will be a battle!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Home Improvement Saturday - Replacing Interior Doors
So, in this house we replaced all of the interior doors minus the furnace closet with solid wood (pine) doors. It really isn't that hard to do - although it isn't cheap to use solid wood doors as we found out (and to stain them)!
Here is how you do it:
- Remove the trim around the existing door. Try to not damage the drywall when you pry the molding off unless you plan on replacing it (or retexturing like we did). To prevent denting the wall, first score the edge with a knife (to cut the paint). Then slide a putty knife behind your pry-bar to get the molding off. It takes time, but it isn't hard.
- To save yourself some back-breaking work, remove the door from the hinges. You can either pull the hinge pins or unscrew one side of the hinges - it doesn't matter.
- Now you need to remove the frame. The easiest thing to do is cut the screws/nails with a reciprocating saw. If you don't have one, you can try to just pull the frame in pieces (we did both actually - neither is too hard).
- Now you need to clean the area up and get ready for the new door. I would recommend replacing the doors when you are going to replace the floors as well, so you don't have to worry about damaging the floors. The doors should go in first if this is the case. Make sure to vacuum the area and hammer in any nails, etc that are sticking out.
- Now you can slide the door into place. You want to keep the actual door in the frame - do not remove it until the frame is installed! Get the door centered right to left (or where you want it). Then check for plumb (is the door leaning in any direction?).
- Once you get one side plumb (both directions), nail or screw it into place. Nails are easier to cover (finish nails), but screws hold better. We used nails via a nail gun. Place nails or screws in two places - between the hinges. You will need to place shims between the opening and frame to keep it in the right place BEFORE you nail/screw!
- Next, you need to make sure the door is square and the other side is plumb (use a level and a tape measure). Once you have this done, you can nail the other side.
- Now you can open the door and see if it swings well. If it catches anywhere, try to figure out why and fix the problem. The easiest thing to do is cut/break the shims out and then adjust the door. Removing the shims should give you some play in the frame.
- Once the door opens and closes smoothly, you can finish the door and frame. We removed the door at the hinges so we could stain on a horizontal surface. We have also seen people stain/finish before installing, but you runt he risk of damaging the frame this way.
- Once the door is ready for use, you can reinstall the trim as well. Agian, if you are replacing the floor, I would wait until the floor is in before replacing the trim so it doesn't get damaged.
(Picture is of master bath door and entry to master closet. We place on installing bi-fold doors for the closet, but we haven't yet.)
Friday, June 26, 2009
Product Review Friday - Diapers
I have only bought two brands of diapers for AJU5 - Kirkland (Costco) and Huggies - because I like to buy the huge boxes at Costco. The price for the two brands is almost identical, so I have gone back and forth as to which ones to buy. One thing I have learned is that the fitted diapers are better! The Kirkland ones now are slimmer in the leg region than the basic Huggies (Huggies Supreme are even narrower but a lot more expensive). So, we are on Kirkland diapers these days. AJU5 was having diaper leaks during nap time with the Huggies. There has only been one possible leak with the Kirklands - and that was last night. She wore the same diaper for about *18 hours, so I am not surprised! I actually excepted more of a leak than I felt (one small spot on her shorts - not completely soaked) when I got her up this morning.
So, conclusion- look for fitted diapers. You want ones than curve in around the legs to fit better and not leak. I bet they are also more comfortable because the little oens don't have to walk so bow-legged.
What is your experience with disposible diapers?
*AJU5 was so off schedule yesterday. She refused her nap, although she did rest in bed for about an hour (just didn't sleep). Then she fell asleep in the car on the way to Target (around 1:30) and spent 30 minutes sleeping in her car seat there (in the parking lot, sweating like crazy - but we needed a few things so I wasn't going home). Then she wanted night-night at 4:30. I thought she was just going to nap for an hour or two. Instead, she slept until 7:15 this morning! That is why she didn't get a diaper change and didn't sleep in pajamas.
So, conclusion- look for fitted diapers. You want ones than curve in around the legs to fit better and not leak. I bet they are also more comfortable because the little oens don't have to walk so bow-legged.
What is your experience with disposible diapers?
*AJU5 was so off schedule yesterday. She refused her nap, although she did rest in bed for about an hour (just didn't sleep). Then she fell asleep in the car on the way to Target (around 1:30) and spent 30 minutes sleeping in her car seat there (in the parking lot, sweating like crazy - but we needed a few things so I wasn't going home). Then she wanted night-night at 4:30. I thought she was just going to nap for an hour or two. Instead, she slept until 7:15 this morning! That is why she didn't get a diaper change and didn't sleep in pajamas.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)