tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32810601488482316182024-03-19T03:16:50.323-07:00Lovely Apidae"It was the oldest sound in the world. Souls flying away."
The Secret Life of Beeskristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comBlogger279125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-55332711854351804492015-04-03T21:04:00.000-07:002015-04-03T21:09:11.704-07:00Hello!Hi blog friends! I just wanted to stop by a leave a quick update. I hope you all are doing great and enjoying your Friday. Here are a few things that are going on my world:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hugo turned one!!!</b></span></div>
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Can you believe my baby is now one? I can't. He is running, climbing, and getting into all sorts of fun things these days. He just learned how to give kisses and sign "please" (he can also sign milk, more, all done, and light). He is obsessed with our chickens and could watch them all day if we let him:) He loves chasing the dogs around, dancing, and walking to the park. </div>
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His birthday party theme was blue squid. His most favorite book is Biggest Thing in the Ocean (which is all about a big blue squid) and his favorite stuffed animal is a blue squid, so it seemed fitting. I ordered a HUGE cake and about 1/4 of it got eaten. We sent cake home with every guest and still had a ton left over. We froze it and ate on it for weeks. Lesson learned.</div>
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We ended up having his party a few weeks after his actual birthday because.....</div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">We moved!</b></div>
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We bought a new place and moved in February. We desperately needed more space. Our old house was 750 square feet, which was fine for us for a bit, but we were feeling very cramped over the past year or so. I LOVE our new place. It's so much bigger but still feels cozy. We are enjoying our new neighborhood too. There is a park 2 house down from us, which is so convenient. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Kya's Illness</b></span></div>
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I received some really bad news about one of our pups, Kya, a few weeks ago. I took her to the vet because she has started snoring really loudly and making weird snorting noises when she sniffs. It turns out that she has lymphoma, which is a very aggressive/rapidly advancing cancer. The snoring/noises are happening because the cancer is causing her lymph nodes to be extremely enlarged. She likely only has weeks left to live. I am completely heartbroken. I've had Kya since she was 3 weeks old. I bottle fed her when she was a baby (she was abandoned). We have been through so much together and I can't imagine her not being here. </div>
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My heart just feels so incredibly sad. I've cried so much since we found out. I'm really scared that I won't make the right decision about when it is time to say goodbye. I really, really don't want her to suffer. </div>
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We are trying to make the best of the time we have left with her. She loves running on the beach, so we went to the coast a few weeks back so she could run, swim, and lay on the sand. It was such a beautiful day and we all had the best time together. We even enjoyed strawberries and cream (one of Kya's favorite treats:). </div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-58149035234250379602014-12-06T20:46:00.001-08:002014-12-06T20:46:56.664-08:00Hugo update: 10 months oldHoly smokes. 10 months old. My baby is 10 months old! He is an absolute joy and I am loving every single day with him. He is constantly learning and doing new things. How lucky am I to be his mama?!?!<br />
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LIKES:</div>
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*Moving! Hugo crawls, army crawls, rolls, climbs, and walks while holding onto things. He wants to go, go, go and explore everything.</div>
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*Books. We usually sit on the couch and read for a good 30 minutes or so every morning when we wake up. This is one time that Hugo actually sits still. He gets so excited for his favorite book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Im-The-Biggest-Thing-Ocean/dp/0803735294" target="_blank">I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean</a>. He can even turn the pages by himself now:)</div>
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*The recycling bin. When we are in the kitchen, Hugo makes a beeline for the recycling bin (we have it sitting on the floor by the sink). He likes to take everything out of it, rip up papers, shake plastic bottles, etc. It's the funnest thing. Who needs toys?</div>
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DISLIKES:</div>
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*Getting his diaper changed (who wants to lay still for 1 minute? ha!)</div>
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*Being buckled into the car seat. He's fine once we get going, but he has no problem letting us know that he doesn't appreciate being strapped down.</div>
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SLEEPING: </div>
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Hugo sleeps in bed with us. I like having him close by, he likes to be close by, and it makes middle of the night feeding much easier. He wakes up anywhere between 2-6 times to eat. This is fine with me at this point. It's typically a quick feed and then we are both right back to sleep. </div>
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EATING:</div>
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He is still nursing a lot and doesn't seem extremely interested in solids. Some days he will eat everything we offer him and other days he just wants a few bites then he is done. He is adventurous though and will try pretty much anything. His favorites include mango, peanut butter (usually on a rice cake), pear, steak, and avocado.</div>
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PLAYING:</div>
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Hugo loves his stand up piano (like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Laugh-Learn-Music-Station/dp/B003887Y2S" target="_blank">this</a>). His other favorite toys include maracas and a wooden hammer. He carries that hammer around everywhere! He enjoys non-toys a lot too, like plastic bottles with water or rice in them. When I change his diaper I always give him something to hold to distract him. It's always the weirdest thing like a sticker or a price tag (that came off of new clothing) that he loves the most. </div>
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FIRSTS:</div>
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First tooth (bottom left) - 8/10/14</div>
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Started reaching arms up (to be picked up) - 8/22/14</div>
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Started moving all around the house via army crawl - 8/29/14</div>
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Stood up on his own (with support) - 9/20/14</div>
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First wave (he was SO proud of himself:) - 10/26/14 9mo old</div>
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First clap- 11/8/14</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-32602802148924204722014-11-29T10:42:00.001-08:002014-11-29T10:42:26.900-08:00Turnip the HeatHi! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Things have been busy around here - I spend a lot of time chasing Hugo (who is now 10 months old! What?!?!) around the house. He loves to climb, crawl, army crawl, and walk (with support) all over the place. I will do proper update on him soon. I also have a few outfits to share. I ended up doing 15 minutes of black friday shopping yesterday, at anthropologie of course. I picked up the <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/shopsale-skirts/S4120336410577.jsp#/" target="_blank">Tapestry Pencil Skirt</a>, which is gorgeous IRL.<br />
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I wanted to do a quick post for any local (Portland, OR) readers. My friend Joanna is running an awesome sale for her cooking school, <a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?cat=2" target="_blank">Turnip the Heat</a>. Isn't that the best business name? See a post from her website below. I'm thinking about attending the Edible Giftsfor Adults class. I love giving out homemade gifts! <br />
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Enjoy the rest of the holiday weekend:)<br />
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<br /><a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?p=1874">SALE IS ON!</a><br /><br /><br />All Turnip the Heat Classes are 25% off until Sunday, November 30th! Stock up! <br /><br />Would you like a gift certificate for an adult or kid class? Those are 25% off too!! Email turniptheheatcooking@gmail.com to get a gift certificate mailed to your home just in time for holiday celebrations.<br /><br />Classes for December<br /><br /><a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/%20http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?page_id=157&event_id=74">Holiday Baking for Kids</a><br /><a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?page_id=157&event_id=61">Edible Gifts for Kids</a><br /><a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?page_id=157&event_id=62">Edible Gifts for Adults</a><br /><br />And if you are planning ahead…. <img src="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" /><br /><br /><a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?page_id=157&event_id=73">Valentine’s Day Romantic Dinner Date!</a><br /><br />Classes are scheduled through March. Check them all out <a href="http://turniptheheatcooking.com/?page_id=158">here</a>kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-37288480975779483992014-09-28T10:09:00.000-07:002014-09-28T10:09:28.890-07:00Beekeeping adventures: conclusion of year 2<div>
We got honey!!! I'm so excited. This year went really well. My hive thrived and produced some beautiful and delicious honey:)<br />
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I didn't have a lot of extra time this year, so I wasn't able to do a hive inspection every week like I did last year. My philosophy this year, and in general, is to let them do their thing and interfere as little as possible. It's enjoyable to me to watch them and try to figure out what they are doing and why they are doing it but I feel like they know best. I don't like to use chemicals in the hive (for pest control) and I don't like to interfere with them in general (unless necessary). They are magical little creatures! It has been such a pleasure to have them in my backyard and to observe their very complex structure/process and watch them flourish this year. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPX22QDd8TN9TFBscdbX0tZB4EmXze9N-AJdN0VyyPLnbCqmlTSjRyHuBqrXvbEIBEMcpHbOVkqdLtOMfY6GBwEJZNx-nIx3d7UwyIR23Vx7TLF0S3EgrLnvZXEEi4awAJsFPDdZQOqQ/s640/blogger-image-7890383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPX22QDd8TN9TFBscdbX0tZB4EmXze9N-AJdN0VyyPLnbCqmlTSjRyHuBqrXvbEIBEMcpHbOVkqdLtOMfY6GBwEJZNx-nIx3d7UwyIR23Vx7TLF0S3EgrLnvZXEEi4awAJsFPDdZQOqQ/s640/blogger-image-7890383.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Queen! See how different she looks from the other bees? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0YMuFfzrO3WZjEABe9KQXSvO99hhS4UmHLIsQr9sPZmPB1eQwJwva7408_lwfBiqz8XQhJ_pvpZNHccRjYRYA0ekQWKv-3K4Ugy-9rZg4fuIi5bZu0HDQp7YnupzG0B4SLpzhsC9CV0/s640/blogger-image--685143897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0YMuFfzrO3WZjEABe9KQXSvO99hhS4UmHLIsQr9sPZmPB1eQwJwva7408_lwfBiqz8XQhJ_pvpZNHccRjYRYA0ekQWKv-3K4Ugy-9rZg4fuIi5bZu0HDQp7YnupzG0B4SLpzhsC9CV0/s640/blogger-image--685143897.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We caught a swarm this year! Our friends hive swarmed and ended up in a big tree in front of their house. We went over and (very carefully!) captured it. That was a great experience and now we have 2 hives! I'm hoping they survive the winter because they didn't have a whole lot of time to get established. Fingers crossed.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicIRRfNqcIe1zGbk5ElwELks1nICKLJ2-KtdiuuhXXzZDliq7YTVIdaD1q6PvwRVu4GhowWc6VJRPOlGlvC7qSfu66bX6ehUYfj-Uc2u6fV-YypVfzQgpJgbST_5Ut_MJSZp08Oj9mWhU/s640/blogger-image-1740863418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicIRRfNqcIe1zGbk5ElwELks1nICKLJ2-KtdiuuhXXzZDliq7YTVIdaD1q6PvwRVu4GhowWc6VJRPOlGlvC7qSfu66bX6ehUYfj-Uc2u6fV-YypVfzQgpJgbST_5Ut_MJSZp08Oj9mWhU/s640/blogger-image-1740863418.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beekeeper selfie and look at that frame full of honey:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPCSrORRFKtJXDIQSqAfS9GD_YhWUgUujTAp5yZzmym1EP7R2Px3FjFU3c2cJa9JPUbs22_KRIgO6_Ov72_mecOpcsFNaslAgToMznz_ISKYD4jxLccubfAHRng5Bj80YE6lZ6HvCcbI/s640/blogger-image--1584426192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPCSrORRFKtJXDIQSqAfS9GD_YhWUgUujTAp5yZzmym1EP7R2Px3FjFU3c2cJa9JPUbs22_KRIgO6_Ov72_mecOpcsFNaslAgToMznz_ISKYD4jxLccubfAHRng5Bj80YE6lZ6HvCcbI/s640/blogger-image--1584426192.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a frame full of delicious capped-over (ready to eat) honey</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IpTfIYKsrtIWs7hlrEoOgXnSKUaCGcoFxc-JnUwTEoV5K-CzLoaVF6qAbDKCBGiySGAD9TnfRMKW4cf2fg_pdVEjITN5-uwsvp1NvljGt2z2o4uPL6IKg1t-rN18MNpt8UuMYUSF7qM/s640/blogger-image-556588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IpTfIYKsrtIWs7hlrEoOgXnSKUaCGcoFxc-JnUwTEoV5K-CzLoaVF6qAbDKCBGiySGAD9TnfRMKW4cf2fg_pdVEjITN5-uwsvp1NvljGt2z2o4uPL6IKg1t-rN18MNpt8UuMYUSF7qM/s640/blogger-image-556588.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We decided not to rent an extractor and go with the more simple method of scraping everything off the foundation and filtering the honey out. This definitely has its pluses and minuses but it worked for us this time around. It was actually much easier than anticipated and I enjoyed the whole process. The best part was using my hands to mix it all up and break up the honey cells. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDQTcSs6GLK41TOh3IORZa0y4IghqOl-aLdY7mwwBI0dtiKXR3Ze5NMnXORlwU55xWULqpiSh3M5lrip3oyZGSCvsbAfILTxAJ3JZhXcS_ACPmJmjM36jBx8fKzG1ShcPRPrfPTDvQz0/s640/blogger-image--1633838642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDQTcSs6GLK41TOh3IORZa0y4IghqOl-aLdY7mwwBI0dtiKXR3Ze5NMnXORlwU55xWULqpiSh3M5lrip3oyZGSCvsbAfILTxAJ3JZhXcS_ACPmJmjM36jBx8fKzG1ShcPRPrfPTDvQz0/s640/blogger-image--1633838642.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here the honey is dripping through the filter. Yes, I plan on using all of that wax for something (not sure what yet)! This was our second harvest. The first was bigger and we actually used a giant mesh bag to let the honey filter through for 24 hours.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtubZs_qgqwuKxBHgeP_PcfWy4UkzClQ8LgQKpj2VteCqdMgieXACTZmCMjYJnYdqS9M9dq8eqDh4g9CVF-PM0mjAYaFfoTkOisycfnKKWXiN2usnvErr_7oKjgJ_-aF6jYPeSOIjVIg/s640/blogger-image--371405360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtubZs_qgqwuKxBHgeP_PcfWy4UkzClQ8LgQKpj2VteCqdMgieXACTZmCMjYJnYdqS9M9dq8eqDh4g9CVF-PM0mjAYaFfoTkOisycfnKKWXiN2usnvErr_7oKjgJ_-aF6jYPeSOIjVIg/s640/blogger-image--371405360.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pure, raw, beautiful honey! We are still in the process of getting all of the honey in jars and I plan on getting some labels/stickers made up and giving these out as Christmas gifts. </td></tr>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-7582083747727485572014-09-21T08:18:00.000-07:002014-09-21T08:18:21.984-07:00Jumping back in<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Here is a quick OOTD from last week. It is definitely a repeat, but oh well. Since it's been so long since I posted an OOTD, I really just wanted to jump back in and get started. Because I was pregnant last fall and couldn't wear most of my clothes, everything feels new again. Score! This was the first outfit this year that kind of felt fall-like, which is really exciting to me. I love tights!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cjZPUlfqfv2LLcwj5fgxc1kVKpCosWCr3vZacWTG7rGjjf9_J91znBX-f95Jh_FkWe_LIxoio50Zfry0cC0hUbxgfkrxDOpOFJ49RF9zoRENDq-1M6dpQOHl_StRU1HaKSQKKTIZ8ac/s640/blogger-image--1771565285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cjZPUlfqfv2LLcwj5fgxc1kVKpCosWCr3vZacWTG7rGjjf9_J91znBX-f95Jh_FkWe_LIxoio50Zfry0cC0hUbxgfkrxDOpOFJ49RF9zoRENDq-1M6dpQOHl_StRU1HaKSQKKTIZ8ac/s1600/blogger-image--1771565285.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Top and Skirt: Anthropologie</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardigan and tights: J. Crew</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Shoes: Gee WaWa</span></div>
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Check out my new ring! I saw it on Usha (<a href="http://www.indulgingmywanderlust.com/" target="_blank">her blog</a>) and she told me about the cutest little etsy shop ever, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/applelatte" target="_blank">Apple Latte</a>, where I purchased the ring from. They sell a few other honey comb items that I definitely have my eye on:)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fsAk-MwFrSYiTfmeBLbNeANv5au_gWSSMQAejpfNP-srdtlYS1yATpjFxigl00rdniffsKLvVM89855aEXtWhjuLfEMP_L9A1rzdwAYN6nXqOszPwzZVwhiBZSZX85i7R0xN2WDZxkc/s640/blogger-image--1683611622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fsAk-MwFrSYiTfmeBLbNeANv5au_gWSSMQAejpfNP-srdtlYS1yATpjFxigl00rdniffsKLvVM89855aEXtWhjuLfEMP_L9A1rzdwAYN6nXqOszPwzZVwhiBZSZX85i7R0xN2WDZxkc/s640/blogger-image--1683611622.jpg" /></a></div>
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Speaking of fall, I am enjoying a nice warm cup of pumpkin spice chai tea this morning. So good!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdisYLpXDraHhv3OfLBu4h2Z5WozfIxr7EKAkYfKEVjFLCz875Hvhl_qO_xjG_cfd4EEyqrUL6uTHuQ0pHFipC0QngGfqQJ7IlvQizxZQSdr5bog6-mrlGoDhRvlnimyuj98mxZ8c1zM/s640/blogger-image--778702948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdisYLpXDraHhv3OfLBu4h2Z5WozfIxr7EKAkYfKEVjFLCz875Hvhl_qO_xjG_cfd4EEyqrUL6uTHuQ0pHFipC0QngGfqQJ7IlvQizxZQSdr5bog6-mrlGoDhRvlnimyuj98mxZ8c1zM/s640/blogger-image--778702948.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-47322579397911825342014-08-16T22:10:00.000-07:002014-08-16T22:10:11.636-07:00AdventureToday, we went on an adventure. We packed up and the 3 of us loaded into the car early this morning. We stopped for croissants and coffee and enjoyed our breakfast in the car while Hugo napped. We arrived at the coast mid-morning to a beautiful sight. The fog was just starting to lift and the sun was shining (which is a somewhat rare thing at the Oregon coast). <br />
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I suggested we go to the coast today, instead of doing our usual grocery shopping/errand running/laundry catch-up, after reading <a href="http://www.alittleblueberry.com/2014/08/first-day-of-school-ode-to-teaching.html" target="_blank">this post</a>. Alison over at A Little Blueberry is headed back to work after being off for the summer (she's a teacher). She wrote about how difficult that transition is and what she is doing to stay positive. I can relate to her post so much because my transition back to work after maternity leave has been very hard for me. It's so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities and fall into a rut. I love what Alison wrote about being a weekend warrior, <span style="color: #666666;">"where I don't just spend my weekends grocery shopping, but instead go on an adventure with my family".</span> <br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4n7Nq8fZizJC6DrA7IixTiXHH85HDKHJvQnccBfPnRc6696srBhl0Cix-O3YLS1ybTHj1Aqy56ouxHZVIe1ysZH4g587Cxg3LPiCopm_1XVcmHMw-1mb-zhtWPLBiQqSsRxPuUsTN1m0/s1600/coast2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4n7Nq8fZizJC6DrA7IixTiXHH85HDKHJvQnccBfPnRc6696srBhl0Cix-O3YLS1ybTHj1Aqy56ouxHZVIe1ysZH4g587Cxg3LPiCopm_1XVcmHMw-1mb-zhtWPLBiQqSsRxPuUsTN1m0/s1600/coast2.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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We spent the day at <a href="http://www.oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=136" target="_blank">Ecola State Park</a> introducing Hugo to the ocean/beach for the first time, exploring the tidepools, walking on the beach, relaxing on our blanket, and hiking through the forest high up along the cliff side overlooking the ocean.<br />
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<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-21910629770484603512014-08-10T17:52:00.000-07:002014-08-10T17:58:06.035-07:00breastfeeding is hardAs we are in the midst of breastfeeding awareness month and world breastfeeding week just ended, I thought this is a good time to share a bit of my breastfeeding journey. <br />
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I always knew that I wanted to breastfeed. I knew it was the right choice for me/us and it was never really a question. During my pregnancy, I read Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding and we spent a little bit of time talking about breastfeeding and practicing breastfeeding positions during our childbirth class. Beyond that, I didn't do a whole lot to prepare. I guess I just assumed that once baby was here, I would hold him up to my breast and he would eat. Ha! If only! For some moms, that is the case. Everything goes smoothly, baby latches well right away, and milk is plentiful. Lucky mamas! For me, and many other moms, the road is much more rocky. <br />
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When Hugo was born, we got lots of skin-to-skin contact right away, but getting him to latch for the first time was difficult. Part of the problem was that due to my postpartum hemorrhage, it was very difficult for me to sit up (see <a href="http://lovelyapidae.blogspot.com/2014/02/birth-story.html" target="_blank">my birth story here</a>). Because I couldn't sit up, we had to maneuver ourselves around and try different positions to get him latched on. Eventually we got it, but it didn't come easy. For the first 3-4 days postpartum, we had difficulty getting him to latch. Sometimes he would latch fine, other times it seemed like he couldn't quite get it and we both would end up frustrated after multiple attempts. Ben and and I spent lots of time looking up youtube videos of newborn babies properly latching on. It was so frustrating to me because I really thought it would all come naturally. I thought that I would/should instinctively know how to feed my baby. When everything felt painful and awkward and I couldn't figure out how to help him latch on properly, I got so discouraged. <br />
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After a few days of this, my nipples were bleeding, sore, and scabbed over. I cried during a lot of the feedings because it hurt so bad. I cried because I was exhausted, because I couldn't figure out how to nurse him 'the right way' and because of the physical pain. The nurse that came to visit us at home 4 days after I gave birth gave me a nipple shield (this was also the day my milk came in). This was a blessing and a curse - it was great because it helped Hugo latch on better and get more milk, plus it gave my nipples a little bit of a much-needed break. We were desperate in the moment and this allowed us to make it through the day. It was a curse because she unknowingly gave me the wrong size, which made matters even worse and also because we would eventually have to wean off the shield and learn how to nurse without it.<br />
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At 6 days postpartum, we met with a lactation consultant. This was one of the best decisions I have ever made. She spent so much time with us understanding what was going on. She was encouraging, understanding, and she made me feel supported. She showed us different feeding positions (we practiced this in our childbirth class, but it is SO different when you have an actual baby in your arms who is hungry!), showed us what the latch should look like, and gave me ointment and oh so soft nursing pads so that my nipples could heal. We came up with a plan and she gave me the tools and support I needed to make it happen. Ben went with me and supported me every step of the way. He was able to see how the lactation consultant had us positioned and help me re-create that at home. We even took pictures in her office so that we could reference them if needed. <br />
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Things definitely got better after that. I would say that at about 2 weeks postpartum, my nipples had healed a bit and I felt like I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. Each time we nursed, I got a little bit more comfortable and Hugo figured things out a bit too. One thing the LC said is that not only is mama learning how to breastfeed, baby is learning too. It takes time and practice. <br />
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Hugo's nursing sessions became longer and longer. By about 10 days postpartum, he was nursing for an hour+ every session (sometimes even an hour and a half). This was fine with me, but it made getting other things done really hard and I started to get sore from sitting in one positions so long/often. When Hugo was 2 weeks old, we went in to see my midwife for a check up. He was gaining weight fine (was 9lbs2oz at birth, dropped down to 8lbs2oz at 4 days old, and was back up to 8lbs9oz at 2 weeks), but she thought it would be a good idea to start some herbs to try to increase my milk supply since he was nursing for so long. We also discovered a very minor yeast infection on my nipples/his bum. That was easily treatable with ointment, but just one more thing to deal with.<br />
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When Hugo was about 4 weeks old we went back to see the lactation consultant. At that appointment we learned that Hugo was still not quite up to his birth weight and that he wasn't gaining enough per day (so he wasn't getting enough milk). I think somewhere in between weeks 2 and 3, my supply was not able to keep up with his demand. We also discovered that although Hugo was nursing for an hour+ each time, he was actually only eating for about the first 5-10 minutes and he was just comfort nursing after that. Once again, the LC was so very helpful. I told her that I would supplement if necessary but that I would like to do everything I possible could to get my milk supply up so that I wouldn't need to supplement. We came up with another game plan and she made sure I felt supported and equipped to carry through. We decided that I would:<br />
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* Nurse Hugo every hour that he was awake - I actually set an alarm on my phone to go off every hour. Sometimes he comfort nursed in between, but I made sure he ate every hour.<br />
* Add in some pump sessions to stimulate more milk production<br />
* Take a tincture that she prepared containing herbs known to help milk production (I don't remember all of the ingredients, but I know it had fenugreek and goats rue)<br />
* Have my midwife prescribe me domperidone (a prescription medication known to increase prolactin which in turn increases milk production. Taking domperidone for low milk supply is something that is done very commonly in other countries. The medication is actually over the counter in many places. In the US, it's not FDA approved for milk production, but my midwife wrote the Rx for me to use it "off label". In my case, the pros definitely outweighed the cons.)<br />
* Drink mother's milk tea<br />
* Be very mindful about getting plenty of fluids/calories every day<br />
* Pick up a scale form my midwife's office so that I could weigh Hugo every day at home <br />
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<br />This was A LOT of work, but it paid off. We saw a change almost immediately and Hugo started<span style="background-color: transparent;"> gaining weight quickly. He was putting on about an ounce per day and he reached his birth weight at about 4 weeks (my midwife and LC were comfortable with this since he weighed a lot to start with. I ended up not needing to supplement). He continued gaining at that rate (an ounce per day) for quite some time and really packed on the pounds!</span></div>
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I started going to a breastfeeding support group every week. I can't tell you how helpful it was for me to be around other breastfeeding moms. I found out that I wasn't alone. It turns out that lots of moms have trouble breastfeeding. We were there to support and encourage each other, talk about solutions that worked for us, bounce ideas off of each other, and sometimes just listen to each other cry. The group leader was a lactation consultant and was great about answering my many questions along the way. <br />
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At around 12 weeks postpartum, things definitely shifted. Breastfeeding starting to feel easy! We had made it past most of our hurdles and I realized how much I enjoyed feeding and nourishing my baby. Things have only gotten better since then. I love breastfeeding because I love being able to feed my baby anywhere, anytime. The milk is always ready, always the perfect temperature, and always contains exactly what he needs right then. I love the bond that Hugo and I share. I love the way he looks up at me while he's nursing. I love that I can so easily comfort him if he's upset or trying to go to sleep. Even though we had a lot of struggles initially, I would do it all over again. It was all absolutely worth it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wlRwu3qv0VW1vbhGe-jSVyc7J5dkHxonL1XvqkBn7DFXKKzRHBQeg0cUlOm0cTrO2wA_eayuvDiPuYe73ZijF6BvNHaktcAPpNo9MO3OvSnmqYvK92al52CRmoA4716GDS7QRAoT_mE/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wlRwu3qv0VW1vbhGe-jSVyc7J5dkHxonL1XvqkBn7DFXKKzRHBQeg0cUlOm0cTrO2wA_eayuvDiPuYe73ZijF6BvNHaktcAPpNo9MO3OvSnmqYvK92al52CRmoA4716GDS7QRAoT_mE/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I nurse Hugo anywhere, anytime he's hungry. Even out in the woods while on a hike:) Our doula said to me, "every time you feed him in public, you are making it just a little bit easier for the next mama who comes along who wants to nurse in public." Before I had him, I thought that nursing in public would make me uncomfortable, but it doesn't. Not at all. If he's hungry, I feed him. </td></tr>
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Here are a few suggestions if you are pregnant and planning on breastfeeding or if you are a new mama currently breastfeeding:<br />
<ul>
<li>Prepare ahead of time. Stock up on nursing tanks/bras/sleeping bras, nursing pads, nipple butter, etc. See <a href="http://lovelyapidae.blogspot.com/2014/03/my-top-10-newbornpostpartum-list.html" target="_blank">this post</a> for some of my suggestions. </li>
<li> Do some research and fine a great lactation consultant in your area. Have her number handy for when you need it - or better yet, go ahead and make contact and have a tentative appointment scheduled with her. Even if you don't have big roadblocks like I did, you will appreciate having an expert there to give you tips, assess baby's latch, and just support you in general.</li>
<li> Find a breastfeeding support group or LLL (Le Leche League) group to attend. It is so important and helpful to be around other breastfeeding moms, even if you are not have trouble breastfeeding. If you are having trouble, being able to talk to other mama's who have been there, or are there, is invaluable.</li>
<li>Make sure your partner is participating - they can be helpful in so many ways from helping you get positioned the correct way to making sure your water glass is always full.</li>
<li>When in doubt, nurse! I was surprised by how often Hugo wanted/needed to nurse. Even if baby wants to nurse every 30 minutes, do it. Nurse, nurse, nurse! Things will regulate and you will fall into somewhat of a routine soon enough. In those early days though, just nurse all the time:) </li>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-63987232390826886442014-07-15T21:15:00.000-07:002014-07-15T21:15:15.436-07:00New dress, new hair!<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I picked this dress up at <a href="http://www.unionrosepdx.com/" target="_blank">Union Rose</a> a few months ago. A local designer, <a href="http://hubrisapparel.com/" target="_blank">Hubris Appare</a>l, created this beautiful frock that I couldn't pass up. I was newly postpartum and looking for something flattering and breastfeeding friendly. This dress fit the bill so it came home with me. It is definitely breastfeeding friendly, but not exactly pump friendly, so I haven't gotten as much wear out of it as I'd hoped. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I have been letting the color grow out of my hair for the past year. When I was pregnant, I decided to not use hair dye and I continued that path after Hugo was born. It is so nice to not have to worry about going in every 6 weeks and spending tons of $$$ to get it colored. It has taken some adjusting, but I decided I'm just going to rock the gray for now:) I just got it cut about a week ago and got bangs, so the gray is really 'out there' now, but I'm kind of digging it.</span><br />
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-49310000695325234102014-07-12T14:28:00.001-07:002014-07-12T14:28:34.122-07:00Hugo update: 5 1/2 months oldI started back to work last month. Between that and being a mom, I'm finding it hard to make the time for blogging. The transition back to work has been very hard. Much harder than I anticipated. It's hard to get back into the swing of things, it's hard logistically (pumping, bottles, diapers, lunch, etc.), and it's oh so hard on me to leave Hugo at daycare. We are slowly getting into a routine and some aspects of it are getting easier. <br />
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I am so thankful to be able to work from home 1 day a week and I just found out that I am going to be able to cut my hours down and work 4 days/week for the rest of the summer (3 days in office, 1 from home). This arrangement is making it bearable and I could not be happier to have more time with Hugo!<br />
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Speaking of Hugo- he is wonderful! He is growing like crazy and doing so many new things. I love watching him discover the world!<br />
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Likes:</div>
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*The Johnny Jump Up! Our friend is letting us borrow an old school johnny jump up. It hangs on a door frame and can bounce really high. Hugo thinks it's the best thing ever! He could spend hours in it if we let him. He got the hang of it really quickly and LOVES to jump, jump, jump!</div>
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*His <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Banana-Bendable-Training-Toothbrush/dp/B002QYW8LW/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1405197611&sr=1-1&keywords=toothbrush+banana" target="_blank">banana toothbrush</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lamaze-Play-Rusty-Robot-Along/dp/B004BSFC6E/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1405197660&sr=1-1&keywords=lamaze+robot" target="_blank">Rusty the robot</a>.</div>
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*The dogs. Hugo is really noticing the dogs now. He watches them very closely and reaches out to grab them when they walk by. He grabbed onto Kya's tail a couple of days ago and didn't want to let go. She is very patient with him. </div>
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*Being outside. He loves sitting in the back yard looking up at the sky, grabbing onto plants, watching the chickens, and discovering so many new and fun things:) We found a pack'n play at a yard sale last weekend that we have set up in the back yard. It's his new favorite hang out spot. </div>
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Dislikes:</div>
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*Hugo gets fussy when he is tired or too hot. That's about it. I can't really think of anything else to put here. He is truly a very content and happy baby.</div>
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Sleeping:</div>
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Sleeping is hit or miss these days. Some nights he sleeps like a rock, maybe waking up once for a quick meal. Other nights he is up 5+ times to nurse. I think the transition to daycare really impacted his sleeping. He had a hard time taking a bottle at first and ended up doing a little reverse cycling (when they nurse more frequently at night), which was fine with me. We bed share, so it is very easy for me to just roll over and nurse him whenever he pleases. I'm much better at sleeping through it for the most part now, so I really don't mind.</div>
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Eating:</div>
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Hugo is still EBF and eats on demand when we are together. I'm SO glad I stuck with breastfeeding. It is so easy now and I absolutely love it. I love the bond, I love being able to nurture my baby, I love when he gazes up at me so satisfied. I pump 3 times per day at work to cover what he eats at daycare (which is currently three 3 ounce bottles). In about 2 more weeks we will start introducing solids. We are planning on going with the <a href="http://www.babyledweaning.com/" target="_blank">baby led weaning method</a>. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breastmilk popsicle!</td></tr>
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Playing:</div>
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Hugo loves tummy time, rolling, reading, and his playmat. He has a handful of favorite toys that he likes to grab, twist, shake, roll, etc. The mirror is still a hit and he is just now discovering other babies, so playdates are more fun now:) </div>
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Firsts:</div>
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Rolled from back to tummy - 5/23/14 (4 months old)</div>
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Discovered his feet! - 5/28/14</div>
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First day at daycare (loved interacting with and watching the other kids and was "very vocal") - 6/3/14</div>
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Transitioned away from being swaddled and discovered belly sleeping- 6/7/14</div>
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First taste of "real" food (he had blueberries and LOVED them). - 6/13/14 This seemed to go well, but I'm waiting until Hugo is 6 months to proceed with solids/BLW. </div>
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First canoe trip - 6/29/14 (5 months old)</div>
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Sat up on his own- 7/4/14</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't this the most adorable thing? He was not a big fan of the life jacket, but we thought it was the cutest:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the river! He slept for most of the trip.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting up on his own!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqLNIcuh0nBD8DDQcPz_LvdUs37TP61EuriZM2W-KCLDHPEnwwF1Scc0OMUvxJa3AAG8cTfyLAdutKgsoxCodUHlxbc9qgN2BNounJfKRcxKvS-ZEGQNmAdTkOp8o3YAOH2KEMTTN6QA/s1600/unnamed+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqLNIcuh0nBD8DDQcPz_LvdUs37TP61EuriZM2W-KCLDHPEnwwF1Scc0OMUvxJa3AAG8cTfyLAdutKgsoxCodUHlxbc9qgN2BNounJfKRcxKvS-ZEGQNmAdTkOp8o3YAOH2KEMTTN6QA/s1600/unnamed+(9).jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A recent OOTD</td></tr>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-15635348331381715952014-05-06T21:21:00.000-07:002014-05-06T21:21:27.578-07:00Hugo update: 3 months old<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My little guy is 3 months old (just turned 14 weeks). I'm sure every mother feels this way, but he is the most amazing baby. He is growing and developing so rapidly. I'm trying my best to soak up every moment.</div>
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Likes:</div>
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* Being read to. He sits so still, listens intently, and stares up at the pages. We read every day and go to story time at the library and at a local bookstore (Green Bean Books) weekly.<br />
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* Music. He loves any and all types of music. Every day when Ben gets home, they sit in the kitchen and listen to music. Hugo gets so excited and shakes his hands and kicks his feet! We also sometimes use music to help Hugo calm down when it's time to sleep. He still loves dancing to sleep. Ben and I have had a few karaoke sessions in the living room to entertain Hugo (and ourselves - ha!). He obviously hasn't developed the ability to distinguish good singing from bad just yet, thank goodness.<br />
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* People. He loves people watching and has started smiling at strangers.<br />
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* Airplane pose. He smiles and laughs the whole time Ben zooms him around the house. It's the best!</div>
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Dislikes:<br />
*His car seat. For some reason, he hates his car seat. I think it must be uncomfortable somehow. He cries and screams the majority of the time he's in it. We just bought him a new one (a convertible seat). I'm hoping he likes it better. </div>
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Sleeping:</div>
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Some patterns are starting to emerge, but sleep is mostly still hit or miss. He has started going to bed consistently at 7:30pm every night. Some nights, like last night, he sleeps really well, only waking up once to eat around 2:00 or 3:00am. Other nights, he's up every few hours to eat. We had a really rough one night before last. He woke up every 1.5 to 2 hours and slept poorly in between. I think his tummy must have been bothering him because he seemed uncomfortable. He has started taking a morning nap in addition to his afternoon nap (and sometimes even takes a late afternoon nap as well). Overall, I can't complain too much.</div>
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Eating:</div>
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Breastfeeding is going so much better now. It has gotten tremendously easier I was able to get my supply up and Hugo has been gaining an average of 1+ ounces per day (which is great!). He eats on demand, usually about 8 -10 times per day. I also pump a couple times a day to keep my supply up and to build my freezer stash. Hugo does have a sensitive tummy, so I've had to modify my diet quite a bit. I am not eating gluten, diary, or nuts currently. I'm hoping that once his gut matures, I will not have to be so strict. </div>
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Playing:<br />
He is interacting with things so much more now. He can reach and grab onto things. - he especially loves his toy robot. He notices himself in mirrors now. Ben held him up to the bathroom mirror one day recently and Hugo started cracking up! He laughed and laughed and laughed at himself. Cutest. Thing. Ever. He has a toy mirror that he loves to look at during tummy time.<br />
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Firsts:</div>
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First hike (with his dad and a couple of friends in Forest Park) - 3/22/14 (2 months)</div>
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First "roll" (flipped from tummy to back) - 3/24/14</div>
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Discovered hands - 3/28/14</div>
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First real laugh - 4/6/14</div>
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First flight (all the way to NC to visit family) - 4/9/14 (10 weeks)</div>
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First cold - 4/20/14 (Easter)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First plane ride! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFlw9OohmFfvGQJC7vrCv9wQOH_n2DmM5kx1n23MVYlc0MaN-_0wHBKoFBBi8iK2ac1kaPshIvye13RjKktWDcpcWcU5Kj7aZAARvaQqXuBRlTnKMs-dKICKEPjon1vfZnjt71dYWPFs/s1600/unnamed+%252830%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFlw9OohmFfvGQJC7vrCv9wQOH_n2DmM5kx1n23MVYlc0MaN-_0wHBKoFBBi8iK2ac1kaPshIvye13RjKktWDcpcWcU5Kj7aZAARvaQqXuBRlTnKMs-dKICKEPjon1vfZnjt71dYWPFs/s1600/unnamed+%252830%2529.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poor little guy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favorite place to nap:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HO8BUeQdnhA8egD5PPC5kJth1g9CzOn4r5ej1ReH6LZG_9oYxGafKI_CAtLCyHDHRcTlnk1F_qL9op2queYQj11YZMEicbpEzCrK7fp3obgBm3QMUDkVlVl2_MrI2zgL3d2MuNtThMQ/s1600/DSC_0204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HO8BUeQdnhA8egD5PPC5kJth1g9CzOn4r5ej1ReH6LZG_9oYxGafKI_CAtLCyHDHRcTlnk1F_qL9op2queYQj11YZMEicbpEzCrK7fp3obgBm3QMUDkVlVl2_MrI2zgL3d2MuNtThMQ/s1600/DSC_0204.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beautiful boy</td></tr>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-20526815063109147112014-04-25T17:17:00.000-07:002014-04-25T17:17:04.763-07:00one year ago today (my infertility journey)One year ago today, I went in for for the IUI (intrauterine insemination) that resulted in Hugo's conception. I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was nervous, a little bit excited, and clinging to that little voice in my head that told me to be hopeful. After 15 months of trying, a boatload of tests, many many doctors appointments, and 4 cycles of infertility meds which did not result in pregnancy, it was hard for me to feel hopeful. After getting my hopes up time and time again to only be disappointed, I wondered why this cycle would be any different. The ups and downs - clinging to hope while at the same time talking yourself down so that the disappointment is bearable - is what I remember most about my infertility journey.<br />
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Ben and I decided that we wanted to start a family soon after our wedding in 2011. We officially began "trying" in December of that year. Being the researcher I am, I immediately started reading books, articles, websites, message boards, and everything I could get my hands on to learn as much as I could about TTC ("trying to conceive") and pregnancy. We were so excited.......and so naive. From my research, I knew that it may take my body a few months to regulate after stopping birth control pills. I read that for a normal healthy couple, it can take up to a year to conceive. No way will it take a year, I thought. I honestly assumed it would take 2 or 3 months max. It didn't help that I had recently gone out to dinner with a friend who told me after her and her husband decided to start a family, it literally took 1 try for her to get pregnant (as in she went off the pill, they had sex 1 time, she ended up knocked up). I wanted to do everything possible to increase our chances right off the bat. I bought "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" (GREAT book, by the way. I highly recommend it if you are trying or thinking about starting a family soon) and immediately began tracking my temperature and peeing on OPK's (ovulation predictor kits) to track my cycles and pinpoint ovulation.<br />
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After the first couple of months, it was clear that I did not have the textbook 28-day cycles with ovulation occurring at day 14. My cycles were longer and my luteal phase (the time between ovulation and your period) was shorter than normal. Again, I thought it was no big deal and that my body was still regulating after stopping hormonal birth control. I kept tracking everything and every time my data indicated ovulation, I would get so excited and hopeful! I daydreamed about being pregnant. As we planned our honeymoon to Paris, I wondered what maternity clothes I would wear and I envisioned taking a picture of my baby bump at the Eiffel tower.<br />
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Of course our honeymoon came and went and I still wasn't pregnant. I started feeling discouraged and wondered if something was wrong. I checked in with my doctor and she decided to run some labs. Everything came back normal, so we continued on our TTC path. After about 8 months, I reached out to a naturopath who specializes in women's health/fertility. Ben and I followed all of her suggestions, including vitamins/herbs, a 2 week cleanse, maya fertility massage, accupuncture, etc. My cycles did begin to regulate more and more, but I still wasn't pregnant. After 12 months of trying, it was time to move on and be evaluated by a reproductive endocrinologist. <br />
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I met with the RE and after collecting a very thorough history, she did an ultrasound of my ovaries and discovered the "string of pearls" effect that is common with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). She diagnosed me that day and we came up with a treatment plan. I was surprised by the PCOS diagnosis because I don't have a lot of the symptoms of PCOS and my labs were normal just a few months prior. She explained that there is a spectrum of PCOS diagnoses, and even though I don't have many of the common symptoms, my infertility and polycystic ovaries were enough for an official diagnosis. I had labs drawn, Ben went in for a semen analysis, and I picked up my first round of fertility drugs from the pharmacy. Even though I was upset about the PCOS diagnosis, I was so happy to know what the problem was and to have a treatment plan in place. My RE told me that it was very likely I would get pregnant during the first 3 rounds of treatment. I actually felt hopeful again!<br />
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Those 3 treatment cycles came and went and still no pregnancy. They weren't easy either. The fertility meds cause all sorts of side effects that are not easy to deal with physically or emotionally. I am a pretty laid back person, but these meds made me feel a little bit crazy sometimes. I also had to go in each cycle for an ultrasound to make sure the meds were working, but not over-stimulating my ovaries. The ultrasounds showed that the meds were working - I was ovulating at the right time and my cycles were regulated, but they just did not result in pregnancy. I met with the RE again as it was time for the next step. I went in for an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) to make sure my fallopian tubes were open (btw, for anyone having this done, it was definitely uncomfortable for me, but not nearly as painful as I expected it to be). The test showed no blockages or problems. My doctor increased my meds, and I went through 1 more unsuccessful cycle. I had another visit with the doctor who was kind of stumped as to why I wasn't pregnant yet. We decided to add in a couple more meds to increase the odds and also do an IUI. For that 5th cycle, I started metformin, did a round of femara, Ben and I went in for the IUI, then I started progesterone after ovulation. By this point, I was so discouraged and frustrated. I was clinging to what very little hope I had left. After so many months of disappointment, I was fully expecting another negative pregnancy test and was already dreading future treatments. Boy oh boy, was I in for a shock!<br />
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12 days after the procedure, I decided to take a pregnancy test. I went in the bathroom and peed in a cup like I had done so many times before. I watched the test and saw that it looked negative, once again. I was standing in the bathroom, thinking about how I had to go out and tell Ben the disappointing news. I dreaded having to tell him and see the look on his face. As I worked up my courage, I picked up the test to throw it away and there it was. The faintest line you have ever seen! It was barely visible, but it was there! I ran out of the bathroom saying, "do you see this line? There is a line here, right?". Ben agreed that there was a line and asked me what it meant (duh!). We were both in shock. I said, "I think it means I'm pregnant". He did not want us to get our hopes up, so he kept saying that we would just wait until tomorrow to see if the line got darker. I stood there shaking and we both just kept looking at it in disbelief. We left for work and that ended up being the longest day ever. Of course, all I could think about was the test. I stopped and picked up many more pregnancy tests, including a digital one (that says either "pregnant" or "not pregnant" so that there wouldn't be any doubt). I came home and peed on the digital one. I stood in the bathroom, waiting for it to register and when the word "pregnant" popped up, I just started bawling. Once Ben got home, I showed it to him, along with all of the other tests I took, and the news finally started to sink in. Wow, what a year it has been! <br />
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This also happens to be national infertility awareness week. Chances are, whether you know it or not, someone you know is dealing with infertility. For various reasons, it's something that a lot of people don't feel comfortable talking about as they are going through it. Be aware and be sensitive. I can't tell you how hard it was for me when one day my aunt called me up and asked me if Ben and I were ever going to have children. That just happened to be a day that I found out one of our treatment cycles was unsuccessful. I was heartbroken and her phone call made it that much worse. <a href="http://www.resolve.org/support-and-services/for-family--friends/infertility-etiquette.html" target="_blank">Here is a great page for infertility etiquette</a>. If you are dealing with infertility, you are not alone. Feel free to contact me with any questions or if you just need to talk to someone who has been there. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rmapa.com/getattachment/23019cc0-4638-402f-8378-abc35419a68c/National-Infertility-Awareness-Week-2014" /></div>
kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-86820553291772496752014-04-15T16:32:00.001-07:002014-04-15T16:32:40.436-07:00JewelryBen, Hugo, and I just got back from visiting family in North Carolina. Hugo did great on the plane, mostly sleeping and nursing, and we had a really nice visit. It was so fun to see my family meet Hugo for the first time! <br />
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This is just a quick OOTD from a couple of weeks ago. I feel like my clothes are a little awkward right now. I'm not quite fitting into my pre-pregnancy jeans yet, but my maternity stuff is too big or not quite fitting right either. I mostly wanted to show off a couple of pieces of new jewelry.<br />
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Jeans: Gap Maternity</div>
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Tank: Target nursing tank</div>
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Top: J. Crew</div>
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Shoes: Chaco</div>
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Ben got me this <a href="http://shop.betsyandiya.com/" target="_blank">Betsy and Iya</a> ring for Christmas. I couldn't wear it at the time because my fingers were so swollen (lovely pregnancy side effect), but I'm wearing pretty much all of the time now. Definitely one of my favorite pieces this spring. I'm loving all things Betsy and Iya right now, especially <a href="http://shop.betsyandiya.com/collections/bracelets/products/bb1202" target="_blank">this cuff</a> and <a href="http://shop.betsyandiya.com/collections/necklaces/products/orn1101" target="_blank">this necklace.</a> </div>
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I picked this necklace up recently at <a href="http://unionrosepdx.com/" target="_blank">Union Rose</a>. I'm so glad I discovered this store! They sell clothes/jewelry from a large variety of Portland designers. I loved the colors in this necklace. I feel like it adds a little pop without being over-the-top. </div>
kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-19049042649828712692014-04-03T18:02:00.003-07:002014-04-03T18:02:54.642-07:00Newborn photosWe just got Hugo's newborn photos back today. I'm so glad we had these taken! I got all teary looking at them. It's crazy how fast he is growing. These were taken when he was 3 weeks old.<br />
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<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-67925996524693301652014-03-23T16:23:00.000-07:002014-03-23T16:23:01.515-07:00Finally, an OOTD!Yes, I'm (kind of, sometimes) wearing real clothes again. I went shopping for the first time in months on Friday and ended up finding a shirt that I love. Shopping is so different now. Instead of just grabbing things I like, I have to consider how nursing-friendly it is and if it will flatter my postpartum figure. I think this shirt is a new arrival at anthropologie. I'm so out of the anthro loop that I'm not sure. I don't see it on the website, but maybe it just hasn't made it there yet. This top came in a few other prints, one of which is a bright yellow that I might pick up on sale. I had to have this bird print though. Love the colors! <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Jeans: Loft maternity (yep, still wearing comfy maternity stuff!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tank: Target nursing tank</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Top: Anthropologie</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Shoes: Chaco</span></div>
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We met some friends at the Japanese Garden yesterday and spent the afternoon there. Hugo loves being out and about experiencing new sights, sounds, and smells:) It was a gorgeous spring day.</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-63638628519974407902014-03-17T19:03:00.000-07:002014-03-17T19:03:07.597-07:00my top 10 newborn/postpartum listI wanted to put together a quick list of some of my favorite and most-used baby items as well a few must-have things for new moms. While pregnant, I spent so much time researching, building our registry, and trying to figure out which items we needed. Lists like this were so helpful. Now that Hugo is almost 2 month old, I can share our favorites thus far.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/aden-anais-Classic-Swaddle-Blanket/dp/B002SW3B0O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1395016280&sr=8-2&keywords=aden+and+anais+swaddle+blanket" target="_blank">Aden and Anais Classic Muslin Swaddle Blankets</a></div>
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Yes, these are pricey. Yes, they are worth every penny. I'm so glad I bought these. We use them every single day for multiple purposes. They are great swaddlers, car seat covers, actual blankets, burp cloths, stroller blankets, etc. I'm glad I got 4 of them so we always have one ready while the others are being washed. Of course I had to get the pack that contained the bee print. Love these!</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Blanket-Yellow-Aqua-Swaddle/dp/B000MUA5DK/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1395016643&sr=8-11&keywords=miracle+blanket" target="_blank">Miracle Blanket</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_TEO6YMUBRGEYSioB6w5v5j_1An4m2DiaivkT6YMDyenJvehhN1AArTPXTD9tx_xSP8SAie8BecZBvNX6_rl1UPtNq5joF-27Hz_vAuGHjCCJFRneCyt_V2XKu7G_mrnUw24_r4Vimr0/s1600/blanket2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_TEO6YMUBRGEYSioB6w5v5j_1An4m2DiaivkT6YMDyenJvehhN1AArTPXTD9tx_xSP8SAie8BecZBvNX6_rl1UPtNq5joF-27Hz_vAuGHjCCJFRneCyt_V2XKu7G_mrnUw24_r4Vimr0/s1600/blanket2.jpg" height="320" width="178" /></a></div>
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We received so many different swaddle blankets/wraps/etc. and this is hands-down the best one. We use this one at night when Hugo sleeps for longer stretches. It is easy to use, impossible for Hugo to break out of (as far as I can tell), and keeps him warm and cozy. </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Piyo-Yellow-Baby-Nail-Scissors/dp/B004DFO57M/ref=br_it_dp_o_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3QDU7L3J7BHCI&coliid=I1MCQO1RMEG0II" target="_blank">Piyo Piyo Baby Nail Scissors</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SPZy5awKlEqwfsPjMOM_JHXUTQunVyxXoVeX-XPmGmwbqupRY0spq6YUGUFwYHzAEunl8K6b8HtiR3OeSlJX_bk8BvhSIlv-LO92y3j_R6sFp_GUO3peKSh-0_u3WZn0Vhv21a-KZxk/s1600/bsciss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SPZy5awKlEqwfsPjMOM_JHXUTQunVyxXoVeX-XPmGmwbqupRY0spq6YUGUFwYHzAEunl8K6b8HtiR3OeSlJX_bk8BvhSIlv-LO92y3j_R6sFp_GUO3peKSh-0_u3WZn0Vhv21a-KZxk/s1600/bsciss.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a></div>
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From what I've heard, nail clippers are very hard to use on babies. I've heard terrible stories about moms accidentally clipping baby's skin. I bought these because of all the great reviews and I have been very happy with them. It has been easy to keep Hugo's nails trimmed so he doesn't scratch his face too much.</div>
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<a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/blueberry-simplex-newborn.html" target="_blank">Newborn Simplex Cloth Diapers</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zifnyBgMlZLr1jtOe3q7h23CEH5ge5L9Nkq6bXqVDMuIPin0tC52_6RYGV_pzxFsxnoHNnsuOWpkZOtUnTnBZDYclPyK5aD0M9h6Fzi56ueaZnBr6QwENx6aWJnJTCcvkfEFXrleN2A/s1600/bdipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zifnyBgMlZLr1jtOe3q7h23CEH5ge5L9Nkq6bXqVDMuIPin0tC52_6RYGV_pzxFsxnoHNnsuOWpkZOtUnTnBZDYclPyK5aD0M9h6Fzi56ueaZnBr6QwENx6aWJnJTCcvkfEFXrleN2A/s1600/bdipe.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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We use cloth diapers and wipes and have since day 1. If you decide to go that route, I highly recommend these diapers. They fit great, are easy to wash/use, and do their job well. Plus, how cute are little cloth-diapered bums? These are all-in-one so they are very similar to disposable diapers - just snap it on and you are good to go. Hugo is still wearing the newborn size, so I'm glad we invested in these. I'm looking forward to trying the bigger "one size fits all" size. We use prefolds and fitteds from <a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/" target="_blank">Green Mountain Diapers</a> as well, which are great, but these are our favorites.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Phil-Premium-Promenade-Inline-Buggy/dp/B006M0KQ9W" target="_blank">Phil and Teds Promenade Stroller</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLQ6gpq_FL306WRjAVSjJhqF8tz-MKsz88EPsFp0M0yNvEWfTWIlFIucBPD_rNsnrBzr7uhGvt-1t-KhbUtMXcLWXgqpJUR4ABjZOO-AHm3uJiwQxLxC6_kF1XVtP5QbML0cikMKdqDE/s1600/bstroll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLQ6gpq_FL306WRjAVSjJhqF8tz-MKsz88EPsFp0M0yNvEWfTWIlFIucBPD_rNsnrBzr7uhGvt-1t-KhbUtMXcLWXgqpJUR4ABjZOO-AHm3uJiwQxLxC6_kF1XVtP5QbML0cikMKdqDE/s1600/bstroll.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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We were lucky enough to be gifted this wonderful stroller. I really like how it converts to a bassinet. There is a "cocoon" inside that bassinet that you can easily lift out (see <a href="http://philandteds.com/us/Buy/adapt/rest-relax/cocoon-baby-carrycot#.UyZJaj9dWbM" target="_blank">here</a>), which comes in handy if baby falls asleep in the stroller, or if it's cold out and you want to bundle baby up first before heading outside. We have even taken the entire bassinet off of the stroller and used it as an actual bassinet inside the house. The 3 of us are very happy with this stroller.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mobywrap.com/mw/Home.htm" target="_blank">Moby Wrap</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN0d2zpVmbRQSw-iv4Ritnb2Ji_n5-t8WWN-_S_UqX5T7t0QRMNKyMfqb83hARr3vhXUebfw22n9vV14D3rvDNvG1wGMH9xqqoAiIfqHqMCIACugOAcoPuxdm_wkPKSyMy-QhpIMg6Ng/s1600/bmoby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN0d2zpVmbRQSw-iv4Ritnb2Ji_n5-t8WWN-_S_UqX5T7t0QRMNKyMfqb83hARr3vhXUebfw22n9vV14D3rvDNvG1wGMH9xqqoAiIfqHqMCIACugOAcoPuxdm_wkPKSyMy-QhpIMg6Ng/s1600/bmoby.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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As much as I love our stroller, sometimes I prefer the moby wrap. Hugo loves to be close to mama (or daddy), it's convenient, and it keeps people from trying to touch baby. It took a few youtube videos to figure out how to put it on, but now that we have it down, it's quite easy. Hugo almost always goes to sleep in the moby, so I think it get's his seal of approval too:)</div>
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<a href="http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/shop/calendula-diaper-care.aspx" target="_blank">Weleda Diaper Rash Cream</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjVczvh7D2vPd4KCYpnjEbjyJQnEK6e6PuDN4r88G6CV8uPg76KyYelluJl9X7KjPgh_nJJgVreBAcBMQom_0WeNBtNsh6zxNBzZvMckuPQ41bPlz1rrt8oA4-hq9lcoXjl4L9tgpv_s/s1600/bweleda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjVczvh7D2vPd4KCYpnjEbjyJQnEK6e6PuDN4r88G6CV8uPg76KyYelluJl9X7KjPgh_nJJgVreBAcBMQom_0WeNBtNsh6zxNBzZvMckuPQ41bPlz1rrt8oA4-hq9lcoXjl4L9tgpv_s/s1600/bweleda.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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Hugo has only had 1 diaper rash so far (yeast) and this cream took care of it within 1 day. Our midwife recommended it and it has been great. Any time his bum starts to get a little red, I put a dab of this on it and it resolves right away. </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Mama-Angel-Baby-Natural/dp/B000JVCBBG/ref=sr_1_2?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1395106223&sr=1-2&keywords=earth+mama+angel+baby" target="_blank">Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpFyvcbLfLAdIZ0p5oUb9kC-DjiGTokOoZX14Yneoa4jICTDpRX0lT-bcmcyIiFWJTEhXqZsdIXJ5E2dpQVQCWi8TeVBCTiqOJEq6sr6ij-BtW6hjYOjv1k5_kr5ckc3aBV8FoQdTwbU/s1600/bbutter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpFyvcbLfLAdIZ0p5oUb9kC-DjiGTokOoZX14Yneoa4jICTDpRX0lT-bcmcyIiFWJTEhXqZsdIXJ5E2dpQVQCWi8TeVBCTiqOJEq6sr6ij-BtW6hjYOjv1k5_kr5ckc3aBV8FoQdTwbU/s1600/bbutter.jpg" height="320" width="183" /></a></div>
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If you are pregnant and planning on breastfeeding or currently breastfeeding, do yourself a favor and pick up some of this nipple butter. Just do it. You will thank yourself later. This brand is wonderful (we also use the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Mama-Angel-Baby-8-Ounce/dp/B000P7M26I/ref=sr_1_3?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1395106223&sr=1-3&keywords=earth+mama+angel+baby" target="_blank">baby lotion</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Mama-Angel-Baby-Organic-Angel/dp/B000JYIDE2/ref=sr_1_4?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1395106223&sr=1-4&keywords=earth+mama+angel+baby" target="_blank">shampoo</a>), and their products get a great score on the skin deep website.</div>
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<a href="http://www.epibi.com/order-now" target="_blank">Epibi Nursing Pads</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqmJ6NQ-elJPi_Bs3qjx1BI08DV0k7puKhQXvKgqgUp6ifZr4HZu_d1i5CF2WZS7_s2tvzKlM2amNA2uo8x7HJ12iNxMziNMh6Tl78qGbN7NWwl7or5zCRuF44uK_7GzjLivhQ6653rjQ/s1600/bpads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqmJ6NQ-elJPi_Bs3qjx1BI08DV0k7puKhQXvKgqgUp6ifZr4HZu_d1i5CF2WZS7_s2tvzKlM2amNA2uo8x7HJ12iNxMziNMh6Tl78qGbN7NWwl7or5zCRuF44uK_7GzjLivhQ6653rjQ/s1600/bpads.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I first saw the lactation consultant when Hugo was about a week old, she recommended these nursing pads. I was using the disposable kind which were very uncomfortable and abrasive against my damaged nipples. I felt such relief when I switched those out for these cool, silky pads. They are washable and are antimicrobial. I suggest just going with these from day 1 and forget about the disposable pads.</div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/gilligan-o-malley-reg-women-s-henley-nursing-cami-assorted-colors/-/A-13393083#prodSlot=medium_1_19&term=nursing" target="_blank">Nursing bras/tanks</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsf30LmtrY3jUL2S747SFEG4mMixFb3vCiBiPoMpZsAQ1dQtaz0r_nRB5BvJpoI7wW9Rx25VkZOphCaarE0DHc-lVUqHIdnVtvvUWYAieSlrLgGF8PQZUTLoaCK-s0Hx7ANmTY8d55KAg/s1600/btank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsf30LmtrY3jUL2S747SFEG4mMixFb3vCiBiPoMpZsAQ1dQtaz0r_nRB5BvJpoI7wW9Rx25VkZOphCaarE0DHc-lVUqHIdnVtvvUWYAieSlrLgGF8PQZUTLoaCK-s0Hx7ANmTY8d55KAg/s1600/btank.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I didn't plan ahead very well for nursing gear when I was pregnant. I only bought 1 tank and 1 sleeping bra. I ended up having to send Ben out about a week after Hugo was born to pick up more tanks. I have a few products from Motherhood Maternity and a few from Target and I have to say, the Target products are so much better. I love their tanks and sleeping bras. I don't recommend getting actual nursing bras from target, but their <a href="http://www.target.com/p/gilligan-o-malley-reg-women-s-cotton-nursing-cami-assorted-colors-patterns/-/A-12250744#prodSlot=medium_1_18&term=nursing" target="_blank">tanks</a> and <a href="http://www.target.com/p/gilligan-o-malley-reg-women-s-2-pack-nursing-sleep-bra-assorted-colors-patterns/-/A-14415289#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=nursing" target="_blank">sleeping bras</a> are great! If you are pregnant, go ahead and get a handful of tanks and at least 2 sleeping bras. You will need them. </div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-13078656262492777342014-03-11T22:00:00.000-07:002014-03-11T22:00:40.731-07:00Hugo update: 6 weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFDSHCHoLsOWKQ0y2UceSV899orC8AACRGt5E-GUtIK_CTvDpHjvtCvUwWlM3Cjchcqk6842sL5H5CYGJTrqwjDUvFJ7DE70zTJ_NuZr89obI-45Vct2ALP3P5tYXEREFDmzWaE_nI2Y/s1600/unnamed+(18).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFDSHCHoLsOWKQ0y2UceSV899orC8AACRGt5E-GUtIK_CTvDpHjvtCvUwWlM3Cjchcqk6842sL5H5CYGJTrqwjDUvFJ7DE70zTJ_NuZr89obI-45Vct2ALP3P5tYXEREFDmzWaE_nI2Y/s1600/unnamed+(18).jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Likes:</div>
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* Nursing! I think he would nurse 24/7 if he could:) I am currently breast feeding him every hour while he's awake to try to increase my supply. He is quite happy with this arrangement. Breast feeding has been very challenging for us. I'm so glad we have been able to work through the challenges thus far and it makes me so happy to be able to breast feed him. </div>
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* Swinging. He just starting liking his swing in the past week or so. We tried it early on and he was not a fan. We put it away for a while and just brought it back out last week. He loves it! Sometimes he goes right to sleep and other times he just likes to sit in it and look around.</div>
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* Going new places. He loves new places and being around lots of people/sounds. He's very curious and I think he will be adventurous when he's older.</div>
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* Baths. He takes baths with his dad. As soon as he dips down into the warm water, he gets so relaxed. We always joke that he is at the baby spa because he seems to enjoy it so much and it makes him so calm and happy.</div>
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* Dance parties. He LOVES music and dancing. When he is acting a bit fussy, all we have to do is crank up the music and dance with him!</div>
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Dislikes:</div>
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Not much to say here. He is such a calm, happy baby. He definitely dislikes being hungry! As soon as he wakes up at night to eat, he wants it RIGHT THEN. He also doesn't like tummy time too much, but I think that's common. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFBZ9pzDRI3At-0CiRkdD9_9EMbFb8Z9xTOwY_Jz1iSg7fvmSj3WQTQG-cw1hQ5CTWx6X8guJmtuKLco0EZD2i_eawHux79CCiHPZQHJNy4jqdw-qpvklZJiu1OZ6Zk9kUm4-ArpDF9A/s1600/unnamed+(17).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFBZ9pzDRI3At-0CiRkdD9_9EMbFb8Z9xTOwY_Jz1iSg7fvmSj3WQTQG-cw1hQ5CTWx6X8guJmtuKLco0EZD2i_eawHux79CCiHPZQHJNy4jqdw-qpvklZJiu1OZ6Zk9kUm4-ArpDF9A/s1600/unnamed+(17).jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sleeping: </div>
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He is a great sleeper (knock on wood). He goes down for the night sometime between 10:00 and 12:00 and sleeps for 4 to 6 hour chunks (usually 4.5 to 5 hours). He wakes up to eat and get a quick diaper change, then he's right back down. He doesn't sleep much during the day. He takes a few little cat naps here and there and maybe one 2-3 hour nap in the afternoon.</div>
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Eating:</div>
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As I mentioned, Hugo eats every hour while he's awake right now. This is to help increase my milk supply. Our breastfeeding journey has been rocky, but it's getting better every day. The first week was so hard. I ended up with bloody/sore/cracked nipples. I started seeing a lactation consultant which has been a huge help. I am currently taking lots of herbs plus a prescription medication, feeding him every hour, pumping after some feeds, drinking mother's milk tea, etc. to increase my supply. Everything I'm doing is working, thank goodness. He gained a whole pound in the past 2 weeks and I've even been able to start freezing a stash for my return to work! Even with all of our troubles, I wouldn't trade it for anything. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtZVEdb9TbuSO4Sg7QyquoRvASX7X8oM_3XhWSFKZ8t5UOX94Z6A2P_BRkcF2seLjEEeUmZjTSGlvUG2csxwhiu4_nSS35huTJX8Cby8WXrWnttFqgEHFkmqwkv2hhsXh6jEDmsNlXvE/s1600/unnamed+(19).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtZVEdb9TbuSO4Sg7QyquoRvASX7X8oM_3XhWSFKZ8t5UOX94Z6A2P_BRkcF2seLjEEeUmZjTSGlvUG2csxwhiu4_nSS35huTJX8Cby8WXrWnttFqgEHFkmqwkv2hhsXh6jEDmsNlXvE/s1600/unnamed+(19).jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Playing:</div>
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Hugo loves sitting in the bouncer on the kitchen table. He hangs out there while I make my breakfast in the morning. He likes to look around and stare out the window. He also likes laying on his playmat and looking up at the toys. We have story time every day - he enjoys hearing our voices:)</div>
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Firsts:</div>
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First car ride (to see the midwife and lactation consultant) 1/31/14 (6 days old)</div>
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First bath (LOVED it) - 2/2/14 (8 days old)</div>
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First smile - 2/11/14 (2.5 weeks old)</div>
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First real tear - 2/19/14</div>
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First sounds (quiet little coos when smiling)- 2/20/14</div>
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First time I left him (he stayed home with dad while I went to an acupuncture appt.) - 2/22/14 (4 weeks old)</div>
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First bottle (of pumped breast milk). He was not interested at first, but once he tasted the breast milk, he gulped it right down - 2/22/14</div>
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First time trying a paci (not a fan) - 2/24/14</div>
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It is such a pleasure to be Hugo's mom. I love getting to know him, watching him learn and grown, and navigating all of the changes and challenges that motherhood brings. He melts my heart every time he smiles. I have seriously started bawling a few times when he looks up at me and smiles so big and bright. The love in this house is overwhelming and beautiful. I grow more in love with him everyday as bits of his personality shine through. He is laid-back, curious, adventurous, happy, and just perfect!</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-33708286556787759152014-02-27T15:20:00.001-08:002014-02-27T15:26:22.042-08:00Birth StoryThe week prior to giving birth, I had mild contractions that would occasionally become somewhat regular, but after a few hours or after going to sleep, they would taper off and stop. I also went in for a few NST's (nonstress tests) and a biophysical ultrasound to make sure baby boy was safe and handling things okay (due to decreased fetal movement and because I was past my due date). The tests were somewhat reassuring, but my midwife felt like it would be best to have the baby sooner rather than later, so we tried some natural induction methods. She stripped my membranes on 1/21/14 (which caused an unusual amount of bleeding, but not much else). I had acupuncture done frequently during the last week, and did a lot of exercises at home (bouncing on yoga ball, squats, etc.). At my appointment on 1/21/14, I was 3cm dilated and 75% effaced. <br />
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1/24/14, 8 days past my due date, I went to an acupuncture appointment and then went in to see my midwife. We decided to use prostaglandins to try to jump start my labor. Afterwards, I went home and rested.<br />
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A few hours later, contractions started (first one was at 5:08pm). They were about 8-10 minutes apart. I timed them for an hour or two and then went on with my night as normal. I assumed it was just another evening of sporadic contractions that wouldn't lead to anything. Ben and I went to the grocery store and made dinner (shrimp tacos!). After dinner I decided to hop in the shower and then try to get some sleep. During my shower, contractions became stronger and closer together (every 5-6 minutes). I laid down at around 11:00pm and fell asleep quickly.<br />
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1/25/14<br />
I woke up at 1:00am to use the bathroom. Once I laid back down, I realized I was still having contractions. I laid in bed and timed them for an hour or so and discovered they were now coming every 5 minutes. Still in disbelief that this could actually be it, I tried my best to go back to sleep. No such luck though:) I laid on my side and tried to relax through and in between contractions. Ben woke up around 3:00am and he timed my contractions until 4:00am - they were slowly becoming stronger and were starting to come every 4-5 minutes. Ben called the midwife at 4:00 and let her know what was going on. After he gave her all of the details, she asked to speak to me. I think she just wanted to hear my voice to try to gauge the situation better. We decided to keep trying to relax in bed for another hour, then give her a call back to update her. I stayed in bed and Ben got up to get the house ready. He cleaned the kitchen, vacuumed the living room, set up the birth tub, let the dogs out, etc. He made sure I was drinking fluids and he made some peanut butter crackers for me to snack on. <br />
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At around 5:30am contractions were continuing to get more intense and I wasn't able to talk through them. Ben asked me if it was time to call the midwife back and I moaned, "I don't know!". That was his cue that it was time to get her here. He called her and asked her to come over and also called our doula and let her know it was time to come. Even at this point, both Ben and I wondered if this was really it or if we called everyone over too soon. The midwife and her student arrived around 6:00 or 6:30am and our doula arrived shortly after. I came out to the living room and got on all fours on the couch. During each contraction, I stopped talking and moved my hips back and forth. In between, I still felt okay and felt like talking to everyone, letting them know there were muffins and other snacks in the kitchen and to make themselves at home. Our midwife and her student brought all of their equipment in and got it all set up and ready to go. Ben asked if he should start filling the tub, but everyone said no, that it was too early. <br />
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Our plan was to break my water as soon as I was in active labor due to my low-lying placenta (the hope is that once the water breaks, baby's head moves down and kind of acts like a plug, keeping the placenta from detaching too soon). Because of this, the midwife needed to check me to make sure I was progressing. I moved back to the bed and laid down. She checked my cervix and said, "oh Kristin, you are already at 7, almost 8cm. You are entering transition!". I immediately started bawling. I was just so relieved that I had already made it that far. I felt like I could actually do this! She broke my water and then she and Ben performed a technique to try to re-position baby a bit. I experienced intense back pain just on my left side through some contractions right before she broke my water - this is what made her aware of the need to turn baby a bit. I got on all fours and she and Ben got on either side of my belly. They placed a towel around my belly and moved it back and forth (like cleaning a bowling ball) during contractions. This was very uncomfortable for me, but it worked! No more back pain.<br />
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Here I am right after having my water broken eating greek yogurt and strawberries. My Doula insisted we get a picture of me eating a snack at 8cm dilated!</div>
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Ben was great at keeping me hydrated! I had lots of water, coconut water, and ginger ale.</div>
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This is when things got really intense. I went from feeling like I was managing things just fine to feeling out of control pain and intensity. I think the combination of entering transition, having my water broken, and doing the re-positioning technique all at once was really hard for me to handle. I labored on the bed, mostly on all fours, while I waited for them to fill the birth tub. They used a hose connected to the kitchen sink, but once our hot water ran out, they had to heat up water on the stove. I later learned that when everyone arrived, they thought I was still in the earlier stages of labor. My midwife guessed 4cm and my doula though maybe 5. This is why they they initially told Ben it was too early to start filling the tub. While waiting to be able to get in the tub, my doula used essential oils and massaged my lower back while Ben stayed up near my head and rubbed my shoulders, gave me fluids, and very sweetly encouraged me. I tried to get into a couple of different positions, but each time I tried to move, it seems like the pain got more intense and I immediately switched back to hands and knees. That's what felt right. I remember asking a few times when I would be able to get in the tub and I even said to Ben, "are they not going to let me get in?". I was so ready to get in the water to see if it would provide some relief. Once the tub was full enough, I made my way into the living room, stopping for a bathroom break first. I was having what felt like back-to-back contractions and had to stop for each one, so this took quite some time.<br />
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Once I made it into the tub around 9:00am, I had a short break in between contractions (a whole 2 - 3 minutes!). Having a little break and being able to submerge myself in warm water felt amazing! I started thinking about how wonderful the tub was, but then my next contraction came and I realized contractions were just as strong in the tub as outside of the tub. I remember getting a bit agitated and saying "I thought this was supposed to be the short part" referring to transition, because we learned in our class that although transition is the most intense part of labor, it is also the shortest part. The nurse replied that transition was over and that my body was ready to push, but that my mind needed to be ready too. I continued to labor in the tub, and ended up on hands and knees once again. At this point everyone was in the living room with me, but mostly giving me space. I had my eyes closed and was definitely zoning out and using all of my energy and focus on getting through contractions. My plan was to use the tub for pain management, not to necessarily give birth in the tub. However, once I was in the tub, no way was I moving again!<br />
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After a while, my body just started pushing. The midwife did not check me, no one told me when to start pushing, no one screamed at me to push harder, I just did what my body wanted to do. I don't think I even realized I was pushing at first. Although my doula told me later that there was a definite change from transition to the pushing stage, I didn't notice it. To me, it felt like the intensity never eased up from when I entered transition to when my baby came out. I remember feeling so much pressure all over my body. The nurse used a handheld doppler to check baby's heartbeat after every few contractions. Even her holding the wand on my stomach felt like too much. Just that tiny little bit of added pressure made it seem unbearable. On one point, I physically pushed her away (I can't believe I did that!). The midwife very sternly reminded me that they have to check baby's heartbeat occasionally and I refrained from pushing the nurse away again, even though I wanted to. Our doula placed cold washcloths on my back and wiped my face with a cool cloth. Ben fed me ice chips and was so calm and encouraging. After pushing for a bit, I started feeling a sense of desperation. I was experiencing so much pain, pressure, and intensity that my mind wanted to find a way out. Once I came to the realization that the only way for the pain to end was to birth the baby, I felt more determined than ever. I pushed with all my might. I found strength that I didn't know I possessed. <br />
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At 11:35am, after 1 hour and 20 minutes of pushing (18 hours and 27 minutes since my first contraction), Hugo Augustine Walker was born. I felt such relief and joy on so many levels. He was immediately placed on my chest and after spitting up some water, he let out the softest little cry. My heart overflowed with love for this little guy and I just held him tight and stared into his beautiful eyes. After a few minutes, I delivered the placenta and then Ben cut the cord.<br />
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Once the placenta was delivered, I started bleeding a bit more than normal. They passed baby to dad and quickly got me out of the tub and into bed. I ended up having a minor postpartum hemorrhage. After an injection and uterine massage, the bleeding stopped and baby was placed back on my chest. Ben and I had some time alone with baby in our bedroom while everyone else cleaned up. After a couple of hours, the midwife came in our bedroom and examined baby. This is when we learned he weighed in at 9lbs 2oz! Big, healthy boy! I had to have some stitches for a small tear and then they wanted to help me into the shower. However, because of how much blood I lost, I was unable to get up. Even sitting up in bed caused me to feel light-headed. I stayed in bed and Ben made me an egg sandwich. I felt much better after eating. Everyone packed up and left and Ben, Hugo,and I rested in bed for the rest of the day.<br />
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I feel so incredibly lucky that I was able to give birth in the peace and quiet of our own home with such wonderful, knowledgeable, supportive women there to assist us. I also feel lucky to have such a caring and loving husband. Ben was the best labor coach/partner I could have asked for.</div>
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Late night feeding session</div>
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milk drunk</div>
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First car ride at 6 days old. We went to the midwife's office for a weight check.</div>
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Sweet little guy:)</div>
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He discovered his finger!</div>
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First bath - he loved it so much!</div>
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Clean,cozy boy</div>
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Those eyes! Those lips!</div>
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So many cute faces<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXkLNSMmY21ww_YEXt96k-HpWgTALHbeu5QXOnBmCiQzd4k01gTWykcUJAWPwJE1ZVpc96UQZRrWemIHtGv6Xxu50LqYmh8_j15qlgB3KOMALx5wMaTnNP4273r0vxa-CS_AZ_nTaZ3U/s1600/unnamed+(12).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXkLNSMmY21ww_YEXt96k-HpWgTALHbeu5QXOnBmCiQzd4k01gTWykcUJAWPwJE1ZVpc96UQZRrWemIHtGv6Xxu50LqYmh8_j15qlgB3KOMALx5wMaTnNP4273r0vxa-CS_AZ_nTaZ3U/s1600/unnamed+(12).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-41668899573793521682014-01-29T19:16:00.000-08:002014-01-29T19:16:07.324-08:00He's here!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hugo Augustine Walker</span></div>
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Born at home on 1/25/14 at 11:35am</div>
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9lbs 2oz and 21.5 inches long</div>
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Mom and baby are healthy and working on getting the hang of breastfeeding</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5qVBzjIV8X58bD3Yng7W49HkLZoGh9bvjT3qp3aWIZoIzLry9uHB1H-h693r3NJVBVxEv993NKMQoN9HdtzhjgZytNt4c2K9w21GRXqDeBEkinAp67KzXqJKP2G1nBp_RBqpZU_CaIOQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5qVBzjIV8X58bD3Yng7W49HkLZoGh9bvjT3qp3aWIZoIzLry9uHB1H-h693r3NJVBVxEv993NKMQoN9HdtzhjgZytNt4c2K9w21GRXqDeBEkinAp67KzXqJKP2G1nBp_RBqpZU_CaIOQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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I can't even begin to describe how in love we are. I never could have imagined anything more perfect.</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-14394228270313669912014-01-21T13:54:00.002-08:002014-01-21T13:54:26.902-08:00Pregnancy Update: Full Term<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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38weeks</div>
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<b>How far along:</b> 40 weeks and 5 days<br />
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<b>Development</b>: According to The Bump, baby is the size of a jackfruit (whatever that is!) and he is ready for the outside world<br />
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<b>Symptoms:</b> Very tired, sore (especially through my hips/pubic bone), swollen, and still dealing with pregnancy insomnia. I think my pubic bone adjusted itself one night as I was trying to move around and get comfortable in bed. A couple of weeks ago, the chiropractor said it desperately needed an adjustment, but she was not willing to do that this far along in the pregnancy. I felt and heard a big pop and it suddenly felt so much better! I no longer have the on-fire, intense pain, just the soreness.<br />
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<b>Maternity clothes:</b> Just rotating through the few things that fit at this point.<br />
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<b>Stretch marks:</b> I have lots of stretch marks on my lower abdomen. It is what it is and at this point, it is not really on my list of concerns.<br />
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<b>Sleep</b>: Still struggling with pregnancy insomnia. The past few nights have been a bit better (probably because I don't have to worry about work any more and can sleep in!). I've been trying to wind down before bed by going through a guided meditation, relaxing with tea, etc. <br />
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<b>Best moment of this week: </b>Being done with work so I can focus on being ready for baby. <br />
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<b>Miss anything:</b> Same as last check in: sleep, being able to roll over in bed, and being able to wear fancy shoes.<br />
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<b>Movement:</b> His movement has gotten very sporadic over the last few weeks. Some days he is very still/settled, and other days it seems like he's moving all over the place. I've had a couple of NST's (non-stress tests) to make sure the decrease in movement is not due to him being distressed for some reason. My midwife said he is fine, no reason to be concerned. My joints are popping a lot these days, especially my left ankle for some reason. I notice that almost every time that ankle pops, baby moves - it seems like it startles him or something. I thought it was just a coincidence at first, but it happens almost every time. <br />
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<b>Food cravings: </b>Orange juice, and cinnamon rolls.<br />
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<b>Anything making you queasy or sick:</b> Not really. <br />
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<b>Have you started to show yet:</b> Ha!<br />
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<b>Gender:</b> Boy!!<br />
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<b>Labor signs:</b> I saw my midwife this morning and am 3cm dilated! I've been having contractions over the past few days, nothing intense or regular, but they must be doing something! I have been going to prenatal yoga, and getting chiropractor adjustments and acupuncture. This past weekend Ben and I walked a lot of stairs. We went to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Tabor,_Portland,_Oregon" target="_blank">Mt. Tabor</a> and walked the 288 stairs to the top twice. <br />
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<b>Belly button in or out:</b> I can't believe it, but still in.<br />
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<b>Wedding rings on or off:</b> On<br />
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<b>Happy or moody most of the time:</b> I am happy, excited, and can hardly wait for him to get here:) I"m also starting to feel a bit frustrated and irritable too though. This is exhausting. The now constant inquiries from family members are making me a little bit crazy:)<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> His arrival!<br />
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40 weeks</div>
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Yoga at 40w1d</div>
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Mt. Tabor stairs</div>
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Wish me luck! The midwife instructed me to rest and nap today to prepare for possible labor tonight (if not tonight, hopefully tomorrow). I'm ready!!!</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-50018818041704162832014-01-13T19:57:00.000-08:002014-01-13T19:57:42.530-08:00Put a bow on itI'm still here and still pregnant:) How was your weekend? Mine was nice - busy and restful at the same time. We stocked up on groceries, I finally got a new phone (I needed an update in a major way and I'm excited about the new camera on the Iphone 5s), I went out for 1 last pre-baby pedicure with a friend, went to accupuncture, and Ben and I went to the movies to see <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1798709/" target="_blank">Her </a>(an excellent movie!). In between all of that, we cleaned the house and I tried to rest/nap.<br />
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I actually slept fairly well the past couple of nights so I'm feeling pretty good today, even though I had a long day at work. This is definitely going to be my last week at work, even if baby doesn't decide to make his appearance this week. It's getting harder and harder to be at work all day and my midwife does not want me working past my due date (which is Thursday, 1/16). I'm going to transition out over the week and will take a few afternoons off to make sure I stay as rested as possible. I initially wanted to work until I went into labor (and that may still happen if he comes this week), but I'm really feeling relieved to have a definite stop date confirmed.<br />
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These are just a couple of random outfits from the past few weeks. I think the first one was actually from the holidays and the second was from last week. <br />
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Jeans: Loft maternity</div>
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Top: Gap maternity</div>
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Cardigan: Anthropologie</div>
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Socks: Sock it to me </div>
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Jeans: Loft maternity (LOVE these jeans!)</div>
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Top: Gap maternity</div>
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Cardigan: Anthropologie</div>
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Socks: b.ella</div>
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Shoes: Dansko</div>
<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-90574956302921152602014-01-07T21:42:00.000-08:002014-01-07T21:42:39.674-08:00NurseryI hope 2014 is off to a great start for all of you! I'm just trucking along. My due date is next week (ack!!!). I'm getting so excited, but trying to stay calm and be patient. I want to share some pictures of the nursery. We never had a theme or color scheme to work with - we just wanted something fun, interesting, and functional. This room is tiny (as is our whole house), so we didn't have much space to work with. I'm so happy with how it turned out! I think it will be perfect for our little guy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSEVFXaQPcwsZ4maTXJsdbgsIb1M1mw4RYYcV1fRWqTygW9g8Yfkqz5wOAwhT7NnEMqcC4jddPvdEh3zii5mrSrS92PTV0g4hPARtZ5fYrQfMceLc9sRd6CRHGS8CqvxADJu4PPpx8GA/s1600/DSC_2528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSEVFXaQPcwsZ4maTXJsdbgsIb1M1mw4RYYcV1fRWqTygW9g8Yfkqz5wOAwhT7NnEMqcC4jddPvdEh3zii5mrSrS92PTV0g4hPARtZ5fYrQfMceLc9sRd6CRHGS8CqvxADJu4PPpx8GA/s1600/DSC_2528.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a fun and cheap project Ben and I did together. Ben put these frames together mostly from wood scraps he had laying around and we went to the fabric store a few different times to pick our prints we both liked and simply stapled the fabric to the frames. An easy way to add color and interesting shapes! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihfOHpVLB9ytwjoypA4gO34XjRFZXk9ulq_1zjCIzAocyT_sjZHpdo21kZK4r0S4iAnJr8FohWtpEcrptxZRWURoybLK0LZxAQ99jad2PXntpLFq6OKiAI-zpGjTSGWugl1FDKRX0vqbg/s1600/DSC_2571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihfOHpVLB9ytwjoypA4gO34XjRFZXk9ulq_1zjCIzAocyT_sjZHpdo21kZK4r0S4iAnJr8FohWtpEcrptxZRWURoybLK0LZxAQ99jad2PXntpLFq6OKiAI-zpGjTSGWugl1FDKRX0vqbg/s1600/DSC_2571.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We didn't have anything to put above his crib so we used the 'welcome' banner from our baby shower</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscWECNer9YjWzu3_B3vVqrOlPcoQ30pcT1IN8afyoF6YN2VYL4t6yk8a_5HbghWn-U06xNXeDCim_Bx3qLCDOLCu1sua9m3qwzMN9kX5CJciEB9FMppnhodzOVl9fJ-wEMCIqCSRYYls/s1600/DSC_2561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscWECNer9YjWzu3_B3vVqrOlPcoQ30pcT1IN8afyoF6YN2VYL4t6yk8a_5HbghWn-U06xNXeDCim_Bx3qLCDOLCu1sua9m3qwzMN9kX5CJciEB9FMppnhodzOVl9fJ-wEMCIqCSRYYls/s1600/DSC_2561.jpg" height="483" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had this made for my little guy. One of my good friends from Ohio made it with lots of love. I love the colors and the hexagon pattern. Can't wait to snuggle my baby boy under this lovely blanket:)</td></tr>
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<br />kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-52412669593918561572013-12-29T21:03:00.000-08:002013-12-29T21:03:06.940-08:00Pregnancy Update: 37 weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>How far along:</b> 37 weeks and 3 days (2 weeks and 4 days until my due date - CRAZY talk!!!)<br /><br /><b>Development:</b> According to The Bump, baby is the size of a winter melon. He weighs somewhere between 6 and 9 pounds and is inhaling, exhaling, sucking, gripping, and blinking.<div>
<br /><b>Symptoms:</b> ugh, here goes - my pubic bone feels like it's on fire, my hips are sore, my back aches, my boobs hurt, my ankles/feet/hands are swollen, I can't sleep most nights so I feel exhausted a lot of the time, and I'm emotional. I really don't like to complain and I feel so happy and lucky to be pregnant, but it is what it is. Some days are okay and some days are not very pleasant. <br /><br /><b>Maternity clothes:</b> I am pretty much rotating through the same outfits at this point. I try to switch things up with different cardigans/accessories when possible.<br /><br /><b>Stretch marks: </b>Well those little purple lines have turned into big purple lines and there are quite a few more now. I'm over it at this point. Small price to pay. <br /><br /><b>Sleep:</b> Not great. My midwife gave me a couple of things that help (magnesium citrate is one of them). I've been averaging a couple nights of pretty good sleep, a few nights of mediocre sleep, and a couple of nights of terrible sleep per week. The days when I don't sleep well and then have to work all day are rough. <br /><br /><b>Best moment of this week:</b> Finally feeling ready in terms of having everything we need, washing all of the clothes and putting them away, prepping the diapers, etc. After our shower, Ben and I both realized we didn't have much time left and we had a couple of weekends of what felt like frantic prep time. We made of list of things we still needed and one day I came home from work to find that Ben had spent the entire day tracking down items from craigslist and consignment shops. He had everything washed, set up, and ready to go! I think we are both nesting a bit at this point. I love seeing how excited he is:)<br /><br /><b>Miss anything</b>: sleep, being able to roll over in bed, and being able to wear fancy shoes.<br /><br /><b>Movement</b>: He moves quite a bit. The movements have gotten less intense in the past week or two (I think he's running out of room!), but are still pretty frequent. He gets the hiccups at least once a day. He is still head down and likes to push up so that his butt pushes into my ribs.<br /><br /><b>Food cravings:</b> Orange juice, hot chocolate, and cinnamon rolls.</div>
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<b>Anything making you queasy or sick: </b>Not really. <br /><br /><b>Have you started to show yet:</b> Um, YES:)<br /><br /><b>Gender:</b> Boy!!<br /><br /><b>Labor signs:</b> Not yet. My midwife had me start taking evening primrose oil about a week ago. I can tell things are shifting a little bit because my hips are so sore.<br /><br /><b>Belly button in or out:</b> Still in, but barely. </div>
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<br /><b>Wedding rings on or off:</b> On for now.<br /><br /><b>Happy or moody most of the time:</b> Mostly good, happy, and excited. I am definitely more emotional some days though (especially when I don't get enough sleep). I've had a few crying-for-no-reason episodes, which feels really strange.<br /><br /><b>Looking forward to:</b> Experiencing labor and finally holding my baby boy!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to have another ultrasound at 32 weeks to check on my 'low-lying placenta'. We discovered that my placenta was low-lying after I had some spotting in the first trimester. I was told that 98% of the time the placenta moves up and out of the way as the uterus grows. I was so hoping that this would be the case, but I guess I'm part of the lucky 2%. My midwife is not too concerned at this point as it's just slightly low-lying (it's 1.5cm away from my cervix), but it is something we have to be aware of and monitor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">35 weeks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRMqq3QbCND-UeeeVqG79Y0XklfOW3PFwKw2amjFnK6xW6z0im9QjJSfcyWVHlgl-ykkq5VIvjgILW-8l_2XC5L55ew0TevuglJ5d85oU5lnpld0QvOy1PpyE-QzhMiSE6mGxBzrA2og/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRMqq3QbCND-UeeeVqG79Y0XklfOW3PFwKw2amjFnK6xW6z0im9QjJSfcyWVHlgl-ykkq5VIvjgILW-8l_2XC5L55ew0TevuglJ5d85oU5lnpld0QvOy1PpyE-QzhMiSE6mGxBzrA2og/s400/unnamed+(1).jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">36 weeks<br />please excuse the work bathroom shot:)</td></tr>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281060148848231618.post-58124076333440250052013-12-23T21:53:00.000-08:002013-12-23T21:53:32.606-08:00gray and blackHappy Holidays! I hope you all are having a wonderful week:) I have to work part of the day tomorrow - after that, I'm planning on doing some baking, watching Christmas movies, and relaxing at home with Ben and our pups. Ben's brother is coming over on Christmas morning for brunch. We are keeping things pretty low key this year as we prepare for baby to get here.<br />
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I wore this outfit last week. I received 4 different comments from total strangers about how big I am. One lady who works in the same area as me said, "every time I see you, I just can't believe you are still pregnant. When is your due date?". Ummmmm, I still have a month to go lady! I told her my due date is 1/16 and she apologized. Ha! The other people were a little more tactful, but at the end of the day I was definitely wondering if I was looking especially huge in this outfit or maybe I just looked as exhausted as I felt. <br />
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On the bright side, I've noticed that most people are so much nicer to pregnant ladies. People smile at me all of the time. They open doors, hold elevators, and offer to carry stuff for me. A random person in the elevator at work today told me I looked beautiful. I think the good outweighs the bad most days. <br />
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Dress: Gap maternity</div>
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Tights: Assets maternity tights</div>
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Shoes: Born Raisa</div>
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Belt: J. Crew</div>
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Necklace: Anthropologie</div>
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kristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18382459464843256391noreply@blogger.com