I am going to try several different methods of posting until I find just the right one so please let me know what you think!
xoxo
Erin
Showing posts with label week 1. Show all posts
Showing posts with label week 1. Show all posts
Monday, February 6, 2012
Project 365 - Week 1
I challenged myself to participate in Project 365 - a challenge to take one photo each day of anything we are doing in order to document something from every day of the year. Because this year is a leap year, it's really project 366 but I am going to label everything Project 365 in case I ever do it again!
I am going to try several different methods of posting until I find just the right one so please let me know what you think!
xoxo
Erin
I am going to try several different methods of posting until I find just the right one so please let me know what you think!
xoxo
Erin
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Day 7: 12/21/2011
Dear Conor,
Today you are one week old and its the first day that we had NOTHING to do and had no visitors! You and I spent the day at home just relaxing and bonding. We slept, did some laundry, played, read a book, watched a movie, and wrapped some presents. Your Dad was gone a big part of the day as he needed to be with Great Grandma Irene. We missed him a lot and when he came home he was very tired but he spent some time with you playing after he showered.
Because it was just the two of us we also spent some time taking pictures in front of the tree. You were very happy to entertain my silly picture taking (probably because I had just bribed you with yummy mommy milk!). Hunter didn't want to be in the pictures but he sat next to me while I took your photo. Here are a few of my favorites!
You have had a very busy first week little Conor and I hope that things calm down a little bit so that we can relax and enjoy this time together before I have to go back to work.
xoxo
Mom
Today you are one week old and its the first day that we had NOTHING to do and had no visitors! You and I spent the day at home just relaxing and bonding. We slept, did some laundry, played, read a book, watched a movie, and wrapped some presents. Your Dad was gone a big part of the day as he needed to be with Great Grandma Irene. We missed him a lot and when he came home he was very tired but he spent some time with you playing after he showered.
Because it was just the two of us we also spent some time taking pictures in front of the tree. You were very happy to entertain my silly picture taking (probably because I had just bribed you with yummy mommy milk!). Hunter didn't want to be in the pictures but he sat next to me while I took your photo. Here are a few of my favorites!
You have had a very busy first week little Conor and I hope that things calm down a little bit so that we can relax and enjoy this time together before I have to go back to work.
xoxo
Mom
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Day 6: 12/20/2011
Dear Conor,
Today was a day filled with firsts.
We started the morning out early (about 6am) with me taking a shower while you slowly woke up. Then I fed you and we backed your diaper bag, I grabbed some breakfast (fed you again) and made sure we were both ready and out the door by 9am because our class started at 10am.
We were headed to breast feeding class to ensure that you and I were doing this new job correctly and to talk to other mommies and visit with other babies. You had a great time at class. You slept the first 30 minutes but when you woke up you were the star of the show - they could not believe you were just 6 days old and already out and about! We learned how to weigh you (you weighed 8lbs 6.60z) and safely give you tummy time (which you did really well for about 30 minutes in class).
Linda, the lactation consultant (who is also a nurse) checked your bottom as I was concerned about your diaper rash and she said that I should take you to the pediatrician TODAY. This made both me and your Dad a little nervous but we made the appointment right away.
I got home in time to feed you and get something to eat myself before we had to head out to the pediatrician. You did really well at the doctor's office and the doctor determined that it wasn't a regular diaper rash but that you likely had a yeast and bacterial infection. So, she gave us a prescription for both. We attempted to fill the prescription at our local pharmacy (I went to get it and you had your first car ride alone with Dad) but they didn't have it so your Dad decided that we had to have Wal-mart fill it so that we could get started on treating your bottom right away.
We all decided to go as a family to Wal-mart but as we were driving there we got a call from Grandma Janet that GG Irene had fallen at some point and was being taken to the hospital. We dropped Dad off with Grandma Janet and you and I went to Wal-mart and then to the hospital. We couldn't do into the hospital but your Dad came out and told us that GG Irene had fallen and that it was a pretty good fall and she was a little confused and disoriented. They were going to admit her for observations because her blood work also showed that she had suffered a heart attack at some point. Dad got home pretty late but we were still up feeding so we were able to find out that she was stable and would be re-evaluated that next day.
Overall it was a very busy day and one that ended on a sad note but you were able to handle everything in stride and for that you get the GOOD BABY of the year award!!
xoxo
Mom
Here are your "STATS" according to the pediatrician's office
Head Circum: 37cm - 75%
Height: 20 in - 50%
Weight: 8.5 lbs. - 50%
Clothing Size: Newborn
Diaper Size: Newborn
Today was a day filled with firsts.
We started the morning out early (about 6am) with me taking a shower while you slowly woke up. Then I fed you and we backed your diaper bag, I grabbed some breakfast (fed you again) and made sure we were both ready and out the door by 9am because our class started at 10am.
We were headed to breast feeding class to ensure that you and I were doing this new job correctly and to talk to other mommies and visit with other babies. You had a great time at class. You slept the first 30 minutes but when you woke up you were the star of the show - they could not believe you were just 6 days old and already out and about! We learned how to weigh you (you weighed 8lbs 6.60z) and safely give you tummy time (which you did really well for about 30 minutes in class).
Linda, the lactation consultant (who is also a nurse) checked your bottom as I was concerned about your diaper rash and she said that I should take you to the pediatrician TODAY. This made both me and your Dad a little nervous but we made the appointment right away.
 |
| A picture of you resting in class. |
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| And later that day before heading out to the pediatrician |
We all decided to go as a family to Wal-mart but as we were driving there we got a call from Grandma Janet that GG Irene had fallen at some point and was being taken to the hospital. We dropped Dad off with Grandma Janet and you and I went to Wal-mart and then to the hospital. We couldn't do into the hospital but your Dad came out and told us that GG Irene had fallen and that it was a pretty good fall and she was a little confused and disoriented. They were going to admit her for observations because her blood work also showed that she had suffered a heart attack at some point. Dad got home pretty late but we were still up feeding so we were able to find out that she was stable and would be re-evaluated that next day.
Overall it was a very busy day and one that ended on a sad note but you were able to handle everything in stride and for that you get the GOOD BABY of the year award!!
xoxo
Mom
Here are your "STATS" according to the pediatrician's office
Head Circum: 37cm - 75%
Height: 20 in - 50%
Weight: 8.5 lbs. - 50%
Clothing Size: Newborn
Diaper Size: Newborn
Day 5: 12/19/2011
Dear Conor,
Today was your Auntie Cathlin's birthday and we celebrated by making your first trip to the Post Office to mail Great Grandma's christmas present to Florida (we also went to the bank). Other than that I spent the day wrapping presents and you spend the day sleeping (when you weren't eating).
But, we did have a little photo shoot with you and Hunter to mark your first Christmas together. I learned that it is very hard to get two little guys to look at the camera on command so I think we are going to have to practice this skill!
We went to bed early on your 5th day because we needed to be well rested for our first day of school the next day!
xoxo
Mom
Today was your Auntie Cathlin's birthday and we celebrated by making your first trip to the Post Office to mail Great Grandma's christmas present to Florida (we also went to the bank). Other than that I spent the day wrapping presents and you spend the day sleeping (when you weren't eating).
But, we did have a little photo shoot with you and Hunter to mark your first Christmas together. I learned that it is very hard to get two little guys to look at the camera on command so I think we are going to have to practice this skill!
 |
| Your first holiday photo with Hunter. |
xoxo
Mom
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Your Fourth Day: 12/18/2011
Dear Conor,
Today was one of the busiest days we have had since coming home on Friday. We got up around 8am and started our day with a feeding and diaper change. Then it was time to relax a little bit before your Grandma Mary, Aunties, and Grandpa Adam arrived.
When they arrived we celebrated Auntie Sarah's birthday. It is really on the 20th but since she was here we had a little cake for her and let her open her present. We got her some nice lotion and bath gel as well as a sweatshirt from Aeropostale.
Then, once everyone had a chance to hold you - it was time to go on a little adventure to the Maine Mall. This was your first shopping trip AND your first time riding in my truck! We went to the mall to pick up your Dad's christmas present. You had already bought him his Christmas gift a while back when you were still in my tummy but I had to wait and wait for his gift to arrive (we got him the Iphone 4S).
While we were at the mall we walked around for a bit and went into Old Navy. We didn't find a winter hat for you but Grandma Adam found one for himself and I bought some clothes to wear until I fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes.
After shopping we decided we were hungry so we went to Unos! This was your first trip to a restaurant and you did really well. You slept while we ordered and ate. You only woke up when we were waiting for the bill. But - you woke up very hungry and upset. I tried to soothe you in the restaurant but you simply were not going to have it and so I ended up taking you to the truck to feed you. Auntie Danielle came along too so we chatted while you ate. You were very content to feed in the truck and I am so thankful that you are not super picky about how you eat or where - it will make road trips a lot easier!
After you were done eating it was time to say goodbye to everyone and head home - this was the first time you and I drove alone together. We had a great time listening to Christmas music (I really think you slept while I sang) and when we got home your Dad was very happy to see us!
We spent the rest of the night relaxing on the couch together as a family before heading to bed.
xoxo
Mom
Today was one of the busiest days we have had since coming home on Friday. We got up around 8am and started our day with a feeding and diaper change. Then it was time to relax a little bit before your Grandma Mary, Aunties, and Grandpa Adam arrived.
When they arrived we celebrated Auntie Sarah's birthday. It is really on the 20th but since she was here we had a little cake for her and let her open her present. We got her some nice lotion and bath gel as well as a sweatshirt from Aeropostale.
Then, once everyone had a chance to hold you - it was time to go on a little adventure to the Maine Mall. This was your first shopping trip AND your first time riding in my truck! We went to the mall to pick up your Dad's christmas present. You had already bought him his Christmas gift a while back when you were still in my tummy but I had to wait and wait for his gift to arrive (we got him the Iphone 4S).
While we were at the mall we walked around for a bit and went into Old Navy. We didn't find a winter hat for you but Grandma Adam found one for himself and I bought some clothes to wear until I fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes.
After shopping we decided we were hungry so we went to Unos! This was your first trip to a restaurant and you did really well. You slept while we ordered and ate. You only woke up when we were waiting for the bill. But - you woke up very hungry and upset. I tried to soothe you in the restaurant but you simply were not going to have it and so I ended up taking you to the truck to feed you. Auntie Danielle came along too so we chatted while you ate. You were very content to feed in the truck and I am so thankful that you are not super picky about how you eat or where - it will make road trips a lot easier!
After you were done eating it was time to say goodbye to everyone and head home - this was the first time you and I drove alone together. We had a great time listening to Christmas music (I really think you slept while I sang) and when we got home your Dad was very happy to see us!
We spent the rest of the night relaxing on the couch together as a family before heading to bed.
xoxo
Mom
Monday, December 26, 2011
Day 3: 12/17/2011
Dear Conor,
Today is your third day with us and your first full day at home. Today we did a lot of resting! You slept most of the day, getting up every 3-4 hours to eat and have your diaper changed but the rest of the time you spent it sleeping.
The swelling in your face has started to go down but your eyes are still closed 99% of the time (we assume its because of the swelling and the fact that you are only 3 days old)!
Today you had two firsts.
We went for our first walk today. We (the four of us) got in your Dad's car and we drove to the middle school at the end of our street. As this was our first walk it was also the first time we used your SUPER stroller. It was a little chilly outside and we had to take things slow because I was still sore but we took a nice walk around the school as a family. Hunter sniffed and did what he does best (which is pee on all the poles and trees) and you did what you do best (which at this point is sleep!) but it was still a great walk!
Today was also your first time home alone with Hunter and I. Grandma Janet and Grandpa Dennis came over again (and stayed for about an hour) and then they left with your Dad so they all could finish their Christmas shopping. That left us home alone and it was very nice because as soon as they left I fed you and gave Hunter a treat and then we all took a little nap. The both of you slept longer than I did and I was able to have something to eat and watch a little TV before needing to take Hunter out and wake you up to eat!
It was today that we figured out that you did not like to sleep flat. I recalled that you slept in the hospital bassinet pretty well and couldn't figure out why you were not comfortable in ours. Theirs was propped at an angle and so I placed some thin blankets under the pad of our bassinet and wrapped your naked little body in a fleece blanket and laid you in the bassinet under the tree. I also placed a rolled blanket next to you so that you felt more secure and snuggled. You were not comfortable at first but you slowly settled into it and spent the rest of the day sleeping in your bassinet. Your Dad and I consider this our first BIG parenting success!
Day 3 ended with the four of us going to bed around midnight after I had fed you one last time. You slept in your bassinet most of the night but still needed some skin-to-skin contact in order to fall asleep after your 3:30am feeding. I have read that its ok to allow this to happen given how young you are and that I shouldn't let you cry it out just yet (plus I love having you nuzzle under my chin and feel your breath on my chest) so we will continue to do this as you need it.
xoxo
Mom
Today is your third day with us and your first full day at home. Today we did a lot of resting! You slept most of the day, getting up every 3-4 hours to eat and have your diaper changed but the rest of the time you spent it sleeping.
The swelling in your face has started to go down but your eyes are still closed 99% of the time (we assume its because of the swelling and the fact that you are only 3 days old)!
Today you had two firsts.
We went for our first walk today. We (the four of us) got in your Dad's car and we drove to the middle school at the end of our street. As this was our first walk it was also the first time we used your SUPER stroller. It was a little chilly outside and we had to take things slow because I was still sore but we took a nice walk around the school as a family. Hunter sniffed and did what he does best (which is pee on all the poles and trees) and you did what you do best (which at this point is sleep!) but it was still a great walk!
 |
| First Walk |
Today was also your first time home alone with Hunter and I. Grandma Janet and Grandpa Dennis came over again (and stayed for about an hour) and then they left with your Dad so they all could finish their Christmas shopping. That left us home alone and it was very nice because as soon as they left I fed you and gave Hunter a treat and then we all took a little nap. The both of you slept longer than I did and I was able to have something to eat and watch a little TV before needing to take Hunter out and wake you up to eat!
It was today that we figured out that you did not like to sleep flat. I recalled that you slept in the hospital bassinet pretty well and couldn't figure out why you were not comfortable in ours. Theirs was propped at an angle and so I placed some thin blankets under the pad of our bassinet and wrapped your naked little body in a fleece blanket and laid you in the bassinet under the tree. I also placed a rolled blanket next to you so that you felt more secure and snuggled. You were not comfortable at first but you slowly settled into it and spent the rest of the day sleeping in your bassinet. Your Dad and I consider this our first BIG parenting success!
Day 3 ended with the four of us going to bed around midnight after I had fed you one last time. You slept in your bassinet most of the night but still needed some skin-to-skin contact in order to fall asleep after your 3:30am feeding. I have read that its ok to allow this to happen given how young you are and that I shouldn't let you cry it out just yet (plus I love having you nuzzle under my chin and feel your breath on my chest) so we will continue to do this as you need it.
xoxo
Mom
Conor & Hunter
Dear Conor,
Hi! This is Hunter. I am your dog (and may I remind you - the first man of the house). I used to have my own blog but Erin (your mom) had a hard time keeping up with both and since she had to help me so much we decided that we would share this blog and I would get to write about things too!
My first letter to you is going to be about the day we met.
While you and Erin were in the hospital (I guess you were getting born and she was doing something) I was taken care of by the Grandmas and Josh. I missed my Erin a whole lot and couldn't wait for her to come home. Well, my wish was granted because she came home on December 16, 2011 at about 2pm.
Josh came and got me out of the house and I went running for my Erin. I loved on her a whole lot and she picked me up and gave me a big squeeze. Then I had to go pee because I had been home for a while and they always make me go to the bathroom when they get home. Then it was time for us to go inside. But - they had to go back to the car to get you. Josh carried you in and Erin carried me in.
Josh put your carseat on the floor (I had already tested it for you several months before) and since I knew it was just a carseat I ignored it. Finally, Erin decided it was time to get you out so we could meet. She had Josh take pictures because it was an important day for me. The day you came home I officially became a big brother and its going to be up to me to teach you all the important things (like how to get extra snacks when you've been good!).
After I sniffed you a bit I wasn't that sure about you because you really didn't smell like you were apart of our family so I just walked away from you (and got a treat!). You hung out all day with family that came to visit and I got lots of treats so I guess you coming here wasn't so bad - I just don't understand your smell!
Later that night when everyone had left and it was just our family you went upstairs with Erin so she could rest and I stayed downstairs with Josh. But, eventually we went upstairs too and Josh held you so I could get another good sniff of you. You smelled a little bit better than you did before but you aren't my Erin and I really wanted to give my kisses to her and not to you at that time.
Erin and Josh worried that I wasn't going to like you but I don't want you to think that. Its just that I am used to being #1 in this house and its going to take me a little bit of time to get used to sharing Erin and Josh with you. Don't worry - I promise to love you and to protect you from strangers but it might take me a while to want to give you a BIG kiss.
But, I am glad you are here!
xoxo
Hunter
PS. you better not pull my tail in a few years!
Hi! This is Hunter. I am your dog (and may I remind you - the first man of the house). I used to have my own blog but Erin (your mom) had a hard time keeping up with both and since she had to help me so much we decided that we would share this blog and I would get to write about things too!
My first letter to you is going to be about the day we met.
While you and Erin were in the hospital (I guess you were getting born and she was doing something) I was taken care of by the Grandmas and Josh. I missed my Erin a whole lot and couldn't wait for her to come home. Well, my wish was granted because she came home on December 16, 2011 at about 2pm.
Josh came and got me out of the house and I went running for my Erin. I loved on her a whole lot and she picked me up and gave me a big squeeze. Then I had to go pee because I had been home for a while and they always make me go to the bathroom when they get home. Then it was time for us to go inside. But - they had to go back to the car to get you. Josh carried you in and Erin carried me in.
Josh put your carseat on the floor (I had already tested it for you several months before) and since I knew it was just a carseat I ignored it. Finally, Erin decided it was time to get you out so we could meet. She had Josh take pictures because it was an important day for me. The day you came home I officially became a big brother and its going to be up to me to teach you all the important things (like how to get extra snacks when you've been good!).
 |
| This is the very first time we met. You aren't even out of your carseat yet! |
 |
| Just a little sniff to check you out. You smelled different than Erin and Josh. |
 |
| And some more sniffing.... |
Later that night when everyone had left and it was just our family you went upstairs with Erin so she could rest and I stayed downstairs with Josh. But, eventually we went upstairs too and Josh held you so I could get another good sniff of you. You smelled a little bit better than you did before but you aren't my Erin and I really wanted to give my kisses to her and not to you at that time.
 |
| Second round of sniffing. |
But, I am glad you are here!
xoxo
Hunter
PS. you better not pull my tail in a few years!
Your Second Day: 12/16/2011
Dear Conor,
Your second day was a big day for you! It started early in the morning (around 1 am) when you were taken to the nursery so that you could have your PKU test done and your blood drawn for the metabolic testing that must be done after you are officially 24 hours old. Your PKU test came back negative and we will only be contacted if there are concerns with your blood work, but that will take several weeks.
When you were brought back to me we went to sleep for a few hours until you needed to be fed again. After you were fed you were taken back to the nursery to be examined by the pediatrician again and to have your circumcision done. While you were being checked the lactation nurse came in and taught me to express a little milk for you to have as a treat during your procedure. However, when they brought you back they told me that you didn't cry or make a sound during the procedure and so you got the milk as an after treat. You were my brave little boy right from the start!
Your Dad arrived pretty early in the morning and so he was there for your first diaper change after the circumcision so we learned how to take care of it together. Then your Grandma Mary and Aunties arrived. They stayed for a short visit before they had to start on their drive home.
After their visit we waited for the photographer to come and for you to have your first photoshoot. It did not go very well because she was an hour later than she had said and you were very hungry and fussy. We didn't get a lot of great pictures but there were some cute ones. I have gotten in touch with the photographer to see if there is a way to do a reshoot. If not then I will likely only order one or two of the photos and we will get more pictures done at a later time.
After the photoshoot it was time to pack you into your carseat for the very first time. The nurse was there to make sure that we were installing you into your seat correctly and she was kind enough to take some pictures for us. She also helped us pack up everything so we were certain not to forget anything!
You and I were officially discharged at 1pm and leaving the hospital was bittersweet. I was very glad to be going home (and taking you with me) but the staff had been so kind and had really helped me adjust to taking care of you full time and I knew I was going to miss them! The nurse who took care of you right after your circumcision escorted us out to the hospital lobby and waited with you and I while your Dad went to get the car. You were a hit with all the nurses on the floor and the ladies in the lobby were also drawn to you. They all thought you were adorable and they could not believe how much you looked like a little boy. You even attracted the security guard who came over to congratulate us.
Finally your Dad pulled up to the door and it was time for us to go home. I rode in the backseat with you to make certain that you didn't need anything as we drove home. The ride home was very quiet. You slept the whole way home and your Dad and I listened to Christmas music. This was your FIRST car ride!
When we got home it was time to introduce you to Hunter - but that is a post all in itself.
After about a half an hour, your Grandma Janet, Grandpa Dennis and Great Grandma Irene came to visit you. You have not met GG Irene as she had not come to the hospital so she was very eager to meet you. She is 88 years old and you are very lucky to have her as many kids don't ever get to meet their Great Grandparents.
Once GG Irene was done holding you then it your Grandma Janet wanted to hold you again. Since I hadn't gotten any pictures in the hospital I made sure to get some while we were at home.
The Jakan family stayed for a few hours and then it was time to say goodbye to them and it was just you, me, your Dad, and Hunter - our new family of FOUR!
You spent the rest of the evening sleeping, eating, and messing your diaper (which we changed of course). It was very nice to enjoy the night as our new family. Your first night at home you did really well. You woke up every 3-4 hours to eat (which took you about 20 minutes) and then I would change your diaper and give you just a little bit more to eat to help you fall back asleep. You did not want to sleep in your bassinet because you had mostly been co-sleeping with me at the hospital as you had been waking every 2 hours so I let you sleep on my chest for a bit to help you get to sleep and then I put you in your bassinet.
You also seemed to not want to be swaddled in the fleece Halo swaddle (though you were very comfortable in the swaddle at the hospital) so we just made sure you were in very warm jammies and I swaddled you but left your arms out and tucked you under a fleece blanket while I was watching TV. When it was time for bed we put you in a fleece sleep sack. But, I noticed that your arms would wake you up so I said that the next night we would work on the swaddle!
Given how many issues we could have had I believe the transition from hospital to home went very well and that you handled the craziness of Day 2 very well.
xoxo
Mom
Your second day was a big day for you! It started early in the morning (around 1 am) when you were taken to the nursery so that you could have your PKU test done and your blood drawn for the metabolic testing that must be done after you are officially 24 hours old. Your PKU test came back negative and we will only be contacted if there are concerns with your blood work, but that will take several weeks.
When you were brought back to me we went to sleep for a few hours until you needed to be fed again. After you were fed you were taken back to the nursery to be examined by the pediatrician again and to have your circumcision done. While you were being checked the lactation nurse came in and taught me to express a little milk for you to have as a treat during your procedure. However, when they brought you back they told me that you didn't cry or make a sound during the procedure and so you got the milk as an after treat. You were my brave little boy right from the start!
Your Dad arrived pretty early in the morning and so he was there for your first diaper change after the circumcision so we learned how to take care of it together. Then your Grandma Mary and Aunties arrived. They stayed for a short visit before they had to start on their drive home.
After their visit we waited for the photographer to come and for you to have your first photoshoot. It did not go very well because she was an hour later than she had said and you were very hungry and fussy. We didn't get a lot of great pictures but there were some cute ones. I have gotten in touch with the photographer to see if there is a way to do a reshoot. If not then I will likely only order one or two of the photos and we will get more pictures done at a later time.
After the photoshoot it was time to pack you into your carseat for the very first time. The nurse was there to make sure that we were installing you into your seat correctly and she was kind enough to take some pictures for us. She also helped us pack up everything so we were certain not to forget anything!
 |
| Our First Family Photo! |
 |
| All packed up and ready to go! |
Finally your Dad pulled up to the door and it was time for us to go home. I rode in the backseat with you to make certain that you didn't need anything as we drove home. The ride home was very quiet. You slept the whole way home and your Dad and I listened to Christmas music. This was your FIRST car ride!
When we got home it was time to introduce you to Hunter - but that is a post all in itself.
After about a half an hour, your Grandma Janet, Grandpa Dennis and Great Grandma Irene came to visit you. You have not met GG Irene as she had not come to the hospital so she was very eager to meet you. She is 88 years old and you are very lucky to have her as many kids don't ever get to meet their Great Grandparents.
 |
| You and Great Grandma Irene |
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| You and Grandma Janet |
You spent the rest of the evening sleeping, eating, and messing your diaper (which we changed of course). It was very nice to enjoy the night as our new family. Your first night at home you did really well. You woke up every 3-4 hours to eat (which took you about 20 minutes) and then I would change your diaper and give you just a little bit more to eat to help you fall back asleep. You did not want to sleep in your bassinet because you had mostly been co-sleeping with me at the hospital as you had been waking every 2 hours so I let you sleep on my chest for a bit to help you get to sleep and then I put you in your bassinet.
You also seemed to not want to be swaddled in the fleece Halo swaddle (though you were very comfortable in the swaddle at the hospital) so we just made sure you were in very warm jammies and I swaddled you but left your arms out and tucked you under a fleece blanket while I was watching TV. When it was time for bed we put you in a fleece sleep sack. But, I noticed that your arms would wake you up so I said that the next night we would work on the swaddle!
 |
| Resting in Mom' bed while she watched TV |
Given how many issues we could have had I believe the transition from hospital to home went very well and that you handled the craziness of Day 2 very well.
xoxo
Mom
Friday, December 23, 2011
Your First 24 Hours
Dear Conor,
Your first 24 hours of life were very busy as you were not only the new kid on the block but also the most popular. Your Dad and his parents (your Grandma Janet and Grandpa Dennis) came to visit around 10am and they stayed for a few hours. Your Dad gave you a little Michael Meyers doll and your paternal grandparents gave you a stuffed dog and a Hallmark Christmas Ornament. They enjoyed spending time with you and you took to them pretty well. I didn't get any pictures of them on this day because my camera battery had died over the evening so as soon as they left I plugged it in to charge.
After your Grandparents left it was just me, you and your Dad for the first time. We hung out (with you spending some time in your Dad's arms) until your Grandma Mary came to visit and she brought your Aunts Danielle and Sarah with them. They had left school and driven up to meet you. Your Aunt Danielle could not contain her emotions when she came into the hospital room - she started crying the moment she crossed from the foyer into our actual room and she announced it. She couldn't wait to hold you and so I handed you over.
After Auntie Danielle held you it was Auntie Sarah's turn. Her holding you was very special as you were the first baby she has ever held. Her emotions got the best of her as well and she started crying! In these pictures you weren't even a full 24 hours old and you had already made two girls cry - your such a heartbreaker!
After your Aunties had their chances to play with you and love on you it was time for you to officially visit with your Grandma Mary. Of course, she had met you the night before and had held you but it had only been for a few minutes. She was just as excited to hold you on this day as she was the night before. She told me several times over and over again that the moment you made her a grandmother was the happiest day for her.
You also spend more time being held by your Dad. At one point you wouldn't stop crying so he took a fun picture with you with him pretend crying too.
Everyone left around dinner time and then it was just me and you again. We had a good night that night. You slept for 3-4 hours at a time and you also fed really well each time you woke up. You were taken to the nursery for a few hours to have your vitals checked and to have some testing done as we wanted to leave on Friday. So your hearing test was done and the metabolic blood screening was also done and your blood forwarded for analysis. But, before you left for those tests you and I celebrated your one day birthday!
You had a very busy day your first day of life - but you handled it very well!
xoxo
Mom
Your first 24 hours of life were very busy as you were not only the new kid on the block but also the most popular. Your Dad and his parents (your Grandma Janet and Grandpa Dennis) came to visit around 10am and they stayed for a few hours. Your Dad gave you a little Michael Meyers doll and your paternal grandparents gave you a stuffed dog and a Hallmark Christmas Ornament. They enjoyed spending time with you and you took to them pretty well. I didn't get any pictures of them on this day because my camera battery had died over the evening so as soon as they left I plugged it in to charge.
After your Grandparents left it was just me, you and your Dad for the first time. We hung out (with you spending some time in your Dad's arms) until your Grandma Mary came to visit and she brought your Aunts Danielle and Sarah with them. They had left school and driven up to meet you. Your Aunt Danielle could not contain her emotions when she came into the hospital room - she started crying the moment she crossed from the foyer into our actual room and she announced it. She couldn't wait to hold you and so I handed you over.
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| The first time you met Auntie Danielle |
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| Auntie Sarah and You |
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| You and Grandma Mary |
Everyone left around dinner time and then it was just me and you again. We had a good night that night. You slept for 3-4 hours at a time and you also fed really well each time you woke up. You were taken to the nursery for a few hours to have your vitals checked and to have some testing done as we wanted to leave on Friday. So your hearing test was done and the metabolic blood screening was also done and your blood forwarded for analysis. But, before you left for those tests you and I celebrated your one day birthday!
You had a very busy day your first day of life - but you handled it very well!
xoxo
Mom
Happy Birthday Conor Thomas!
Dear Conor,
This is your birth story. I have been waiting for a chance to write it all down for you so that neither you nor I ever forget how you came to be a part of this family.
On Monday, December 12 around 12pm I went upstairs to take a little nap and started having contractions. They were coming every hour and they were pretty strong and didn't go away no matter what position I was in (standing, sitting, or laying down). Because of this I texted both your dad (who was downstairs) and your Grandma Mary to let them know what was going on. Grandma Mary surprised us by coming straight up that afternoon and she got here around dinner time. The contractions continued through the night and into the morning, occurring every 15 minutes.
On Tuesday, December 14, your Dad, Grandma Mary, Hunter, and I sat around the living room waiting for things to progress. But - they never really did. I checked with the midwives in the morning and they said to hold out at home until the contractions were coming every 7 minutes; but while they got to 10 minutes they never came any closer together and actually started moving back toward the 15 minute mark. I ended up calling the midwives around dinner time to determine what the next steps would be. They told me to take it easy for the rest of the night and call if things changed.
Well, things did change - but not till very early in the morning (around 2am). At that time I woke up with strong contractions in my abdomen and over the next two hours they continued to increase in strength and frequency until around 4am when they were about 4-7 minutes apart (depending on the contraction and if I caught it at its true start). So, we called the midwives and they said to come on into the hospital!
We got up and started to get ready to leave. Your Grandma Mary was going to stay with Hunter but I really wanted her to come because I wasn't sure how fast things would go once we were at the hospital so we left Hunter at home and your Grandma Janet came to get him an hour or so later. He stayed with her for the entire day and slept over that night so we didn't have to worry about him at all!
We got to the hospital around 7am and I was admitted straight into a room and got to skip triage.
Once at the hospital things did not go very quickly. I labored in bed for several hours before it was decided that medical intervention would begin (as I had only dilated 2 centimeters on my own from where I was the Friday before). Pitocin began and the contractions got stronger and closer together - but they were not breaking my water as the contractions were not consistently 3 minutes apart but would vary between 3 and 6 minutes. The nurse indicated that this meant my body was not quite ready to begin the real process of delivery.
We were beginning to feel that things were going to take longer than we had thought so we sent your Dad out for treats and some magazines for us to read. He returned with a cute little pink monkey for me to use as a focus item when things got tough. I can't tell you how much that little monkey truly helped as time went on. That little monkey is now in your room as a reminder of how sweet your Dad is and how even the littlest thing can make a difference.
Fast forward a few more hours and my body was struggling with the contractions. I would feel them coming on and if I had been in the bathroom I would need to rush to the bed before it officially started as they hurt more standing up. At one point I did not make it from the bathroom to the bed and your Dad had to hold me tight to help me get through it before helping me to the bed. While you Conor will never experience contractions, your future wife will, and I encourage you to support her to handle the pain and/or discomfort any way you can.
There came a point when your Dad could tell that things were getting stronger and the pain was getting harder to cope with and he asked me how I was doing. I told him that I thought I was ok but he insisted on the medication and I am glad that he did because minutes later the pain became so intense that I started crying due to the pain I was feeling in both my abdomen and my left hip. The anesthesiologist finally arrived and after what seemed like forever (and it was probably closer to 5-7 minutes) he administered the first epidural. I think it was shortly after the medication was administered that my water was broken by the midwife.
That's right - I said the first because about 2 hours later I needed to have another one done because the pain in my hip was continuing so strongly that I was unable to use any of the coping mechanisms and I started crying again. So, another anesthesiologist was called and this time he not only redid the first epidural but also administered an intrafecal (a fast acting but short term shot of pain medication). I could feel it taking effect pretty fast and the pain was gone and I found myself sleepy. Labor is so intensive that it is exhausting and I had been battling the pain for so long that I literally fell asleep within minutes of the doctor finishing up. Your dad says I slept like a log for about an hour or so - until I started making faces in my sleep.
I can't recall making faces but I do recall asking him why I could feel the pain in my hip again. Your dad paged the nurse and both the nurse and the midwife 'came running' according to him. He told them what was happening and the midwife checked me and said I was fully effaced and dilated and we were going to deliver you right them and there. There wasn't even time to think about it because the next thing I knew we were pushing you out. I pushed for about 15 minutes before you came into the world.
Your dad stood next to me on the right and Grandma Mary held my left leg for me until that moment you arrived. Once you arrived you were placed immediately on my chest. You were a little slimy but incredibly warm and you nuzzled under my chin right away and I could feel you breathing. You didn't do a lot of crying but you were clearly healthy and you were mine. Your Grandma Mary cut your cord and they wrapped you up nice and snug.
You were born at 11:41pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 weighing 8 pounds 10.6 ounces with a length of 20.5 inches and in that minute you changed our lives forever!
They always say that you fall in love with your baby the moment they place them on your chest. I can't say that its love you feel at that exact moment - its more a feeling of awe. You are simply amazed that this little person came from your body and is now there on your chest, breathing his first breaths. You are in shock that the little hands and feet you are touching and checking for completeness were the same feet and hands that made parts of your stomach move just days before. Once all these feelings pass you then begin to feel that unconditional love that so many talk about.
Conor, once your Dad and Grandma Mary left for the night and the nurses and hospital staff closed the door and you and I were alone for the first time, that is when I truly fell in love with you. I made a promise to you right then and there - that no matter what turns our lives take I will always be the very best mom to you that I possibly can but most importantly, I will always love you!
Happy Birthday Conor!
xoxo
Mom
This is your birth story. I have been waiting for a chance to write it all down for you so that neither you nor I ever forget how you came to be a part of this family.
On Monday, December 12 around 12pm I went upstairs to take a little nap and started having contractions. They were coming every hour and they were pretty strong and didn't go away no matter what position I was in (standing, sitting, or laying down). Because of this I texted both your dad (who was downstairs) and your Grandma Mary to let them know what was going on. Grandma Mary surprised us by coming straight up that afternoon and she got here around dinner time. The contractions continued through the night and into the morning, occurring every 15 minutes.
On Tuesday, December 14, your Dad, Grandma Mary, Hunter, and I sat around the living room waiting for things to progress. But - they never really did. I checked with the midwives in the morning and they said to hold out at home until the contractions were coming every 7 minutes; but while they got to 10 minutes they never came any closer together and actually started moving back toward the 15 minute mark. I ended up calling the midwives around dinner time to determine what the next steps would be. They told me to take it easy for the rest of the night and call if things changed.
Well, things did change - but not till very early in the morning (around 2am). At that time I woke up with strong contractions in my abdomen and over the next two hours they continued to increase in strength and frequency until around 4am when they were about 4-7 minutes apart (depending on the contraction and if I caught it at its true start). So, we called the midwives and they said to come on into the hospital!
We got up and started to get ready to leave. Your Grandma Mary was going to stay with Hunter but I really wanted her to come because I wasn't sure how fast things would go once we were at the hospital so we left Hunter at home and your Grandma Janet came to get him an hour or so later. He stayed with her for the entire day and slept over that night so we didn't have to worry about him at all!
We got to the hospital around 7am and I was admitted straight into a room and got to skip triage.
Once at the hospital things did not go very quickly. I labored in bed for several hours before it was decided that medical intervention would begin (as I had only dilated 2 centimeters on my own from where I was the Friday before). Pitocin began and the contractions got stronger and closer together - but they were not breaking my water as the contractions were not consistently 3 minutes apart but would vary between 3 and 6 minutes. The nurse indicated that this meant my body was not quite ready to begin the real process of delivery.
We were beginning to feel that things were going to take longer than we had thought so we sent your Dad out for treats and some magazines for us to read. He returned with a cute little pink monkey for me to use as a focus item when things got tough. I can't tell you how much that little monkey truly helped as time went on. That little monkey is now in your room as a reminder of how sweet your Dad is and how even the littlest thing can make a difference.
Fast forward a few more hours and my body was struggling with the contractions. I would feel them coming on and if I had been in the bathroom I would need to rush to the bed before it officially started as they hurt more standing up. At one point I did not make it from the bathroom to the bed and your Dad had to hold me tight to help me get through it before helping me to the bed. While you Conor will never experience contractions, your future wife will, and I encourage you to support her to handle the pain and/or discomfort any way you can.
There came a point when your Dad could tell that things were getting stronger and the pain was getting harder to cope with and he asked me how I was doing. I told him that I thought I was ok but he insisted on the medication and I am glad that he did because minutes later the pain became so intense that I started crying due to the pain I was feeling in both my abdomen and my left hip. The anesthesiologist finally arrived and after what seemed like forever (and it was probably closer to 5-7 minutes) he administered the first epidural. I think it was shortly after the medication was administered that my water was broken by the midwife.
That's right - I said the first because about 2 hours later I needed to have another one done because the pain in my hip was continuing so strongly that I was unable to use any of the coping mechanisms and I started crying again. So, another anesthesiologist was called and this time he not only redid the first epidural but also administered an intrafecal (a fast acting but short term shot of pain medication). I could feel it taking effect pretty fast and the pain was gone and I found myself sleepy. Labor is so intensive that it is exhausting and I had been battling the pain for so long that I literally fell asleep within minutes of the doctor finishing up. Your dad says I slept like a log for about an hour or so - until I started making faces in my sleep.
I can't recall making faces but I do recall asking him why I could feel the pain in my hip again. Your dad paged the nurse and both the nurse and the midwife 'came running' according to him. He told them what was happening and the midwife checked me and said I was fully effaced and dilated and we were going to deliver you right them and there. There wasn't even time to think about it because the next thing I knew we were pushing you out. I pushed for about 15 minutes before you came into the world.
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| First Pictures |
You were born at 11:41pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 weighing 8 pounds 10.6 ounces with a length of 20.5 inches and in that minute you changed our lives forever!
They always say that you fall in love with your baby the moment they place them on your chest. I can't say that its love you feel at that exact moment - its more a feeling of awe. You are simply amazed that this little person came from your body and is now there on your chest, breathing his first breaths. You are in shock that the little hands and feet you are touching and checking for completeness were the same feet and hands that made parts of your stomach move just days before. Once all these feelings pass you then begin to feel that unconditional love that so many talk about.
Conor, once your Dad and Grandma Mary left for the night and the nurses and hospital staff closed the door and you and I were alone for the first time, that is when I truly fell in love with you. I made a promise to you right then and there - that no matter what turns our lives take I will always be the very best mom to you that I possibly can but most importantly, I will always love you!
Happy Birthday Conor!
xoxo
Mom
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