Ashlynne - 18 Months

Sweet Ash,

Okay, I know you are only 18 months old for a few more hours, but I wanted to make sure to document who you are and what you love at this age because oh my!! You are an explosion of personality and love, silliness and affection, and we can’t keep you from shrieking your opinion at the top of your lungs! Unfortunately this means we hear a lot of “No!” and “Sto-Puh it!” It’s usually directed at your sissy who absolutely loves you to death and can’t keep her hands off your squeezy little face. But for every scream in protest you have a thousand million watt smiles to match…you even just learned to say cheese when the camera is aimed at your sweet face, which makes me laugh and totally feeds my picture taking frenzy.

You LOVE. TO. SING. You will burst into song when “Let it Go” comes on the radio, always putting great emphasis on the last word of each phrase…”Gooooooo!”….”AnyyyyyMORE!”……You also love nursery rhymes. When you’re cranky I can ask “Ashlynne, do you wanna sing a song?” and you will usually stop mid cry and sweetly say “Yessss.” Itsy Bitsy Spider, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and You are my sunshine are some of your faves and you love the “Shh Shh Shh “part on the Wheels on the Bus.

You can count to 10 already! This kinda blows my mind, because you are still learning how to use a spoon correctly, but your sister’s influence (and warning counts) has you picking up all sorts of things that surprise us. You know some of your ABC’s and are obsessed with books! You absolutely love to be read to…you will either push the book across the floor or carry it over to us, then turn around and plop yourself on or against our legs until you are in our laps. Sometimes you will lie on your belly and flip through the pages yourself which is the cutest…you honestly look like a tiny tween. Oh, and that reminds me how much you like puzzles! In the last few weeks you’ve learned to match the color and shapes on your Melissa and Doug peg puzzle and once your finished you immediately dump it out and start again! You love to color and draw with chalk, especially if Sissy is joining in the fun…she is your best friend. You love Elmo and Yo Gabba Gabba and you get so excited and kick your feet when you see and hear them on the TV.

One of my favorite things is that you love to say “I love you” and point to your head, heart and out to us while you say it. You just started doing this on your own instead of just copying us and it’s THE BEST! You also like to give hugs by dive bombing your head into our shoulders, so this could still use a little work…but it’s so sweet nonetheless. You are an affectionate little snuggle bug who loves to get cozy under a blanket and cuddle with the cat, sissy and Mom and Dad. Since Austin has been away most of the summer you get so excited when he walks in the door and you will often raise your arms to be held by him which melts my heart.

You are a good eater and sleeper which I am so grateful for! You love blueberries (all fruits, really), pizza, hummus, cheese, beans, pancakes, yogurt and avocado. You typically take one nap a day now from about 1:00pm to 3:30 and sleep through the night from about 7:30-6:30.

Walking is finally your primary mode of transportation. You hardly crawl anymore, except for up the stairs, which you’d rather walk up anyway with the help of Mom and Dad. You ask to put shoes on all the time and once they’re on you want to go “Otside”, “Otside”. You are still pretty clumsy, but when you fall you will usually get up and try walking again with no fuss. My hope is that by Halloween you will be able to walk and hold your pumpkin all by yourself!

Ashlynne, you are truly the gift that keeps on giving. You are a blessing and a joy. I live for your smile every day and feel so lucky to call you my sunshine.

I love you so much, Mama

**See Harlie's 18 month letter here**

The Girls - December 2013

December was a huge month for our family. After moving into our new home and celebrating Harlie’s 5^th birthday, next on the agenda was our big Disneyland trip with Mom, Dan, Florence and Blair. It was exhausting and amazing, beautiful and chaotic, sunny and pleasant during the day and freeeeezing at night …. just a blast. We had surprised Harlie about the trip on her birthday with a recordable Teddy Bear who revealed the surprise with a few trial and error squeezes of his belly. Then leading up to the morning we left, Harlie opened a card hidden under her pillow each night with a note from Mom and Dad and a little gift for the trip ( a princess book, Mickey handwarmers, socks, etc.). It kept her excited without constantly asking  “Are we leaving today?” Then December 5^th at 4:30 am , we hit the road, stopping first at Florence’s to pick up Blair. Everyone did great in the car especially little Ashlynne, and it was fun running into Grandma and Papa on our first pit stop in Santa Nella.  We spent 2 1/2 days in the park and successfully fulfilled all of Harlie’s princess dreams, giving her a make-over at the Bippidi Boppidi Boutique and having lunch with all the Disney Princesses at Ariel’s Grotto. One of my favorite moments was watching Harlie meet Ariel. I got choked up as I saw the wonder in Harlie’s face and listened to her sweet conversation with her most favorite princess. Another highlight was taking both girls on It’s a Small World with Grandma and Papa for the first time. Harlie was so excited by everything she saw and Ashlynne was transfixed, staring at all the sights and kicking her feet.

 

I think my very favorite memory of the trip happened the first night we were there, though. We were watching the fireworks in Frontierland and as the fireworks ended the sweetest Christmas music started playing and snow started falling. As my eyes filled with tears, Ashlynne stuck her little tongue out to taste the sweet “snow” and Harlie danced around, her eyes shining with excitement and wonder. It was absolute magic. It would not have been nearly as special without the wonderful company, support and  love of the grandparents. They are THE best. XOXO

 

As soon as we got home it was time to cut down a tree and get ready for Christmas. The girls and Scott and I had a wonderful time at Billy’s farm. Being the second weekend in December, we about had the place to ourselves and the weather was gorgeous. We got a late start, arriving about an hour before sunset which it made for some pretty pictures with my new spiffy camera (Thank’s Ali!). It was a special day-- Ashlynne’s first tree hunt and she had a good time on Daddy’s shoulders, in the wagon with Sissy, and on the hayride through the farm.

 

Next up in our Whirlwind December was Santa’s Secret adventure. Papa Dan was so excited to treat us all to the experience and was thankfully sprung out of the hospital (where he had been treated for pneumonia for 3 days) just in time to join us! The kids met Mr. and Mrs. Claus and enjoyed the pony rides, carriage rides, petting zoo, hot chocolate by the bonfire and numerous carnival games.  We had cold hands, but very warm hearts! J

 

When Christmas finally arrived, it was a welcome relief. All the hurried preparation was done and it was time to enjoy our new home and awesome family. Christmas Eve was spent at Florence’s, where we feasted on lasagna and the ridiculous treat spread we can always count on her for. Everyone (ahem, the teenagers) miraculously had their phones away and I especially enjoyed relaxing and laughing and watching my kids and niece enjoy the holiday at Nana G’s.

 

Now, I’m not gonna lie, November and December have been extremely stressful months. There was so much good stuff but it was weighted down with the heavy burden of big decisions, huge responsibility and very little time. So waking up Christmas morning in a house we love, with the sun shining through all the windows and a real fire crackling in the fake fireplace was the best. It was the cherry on the sundae and the reward for all our hard work. Scott poured the egg nog, Austin and Killian cozied up on the loveseat and Ash and Harlie sat on the floor in their matching Santa jammies. I always wish Christmas morning could last just a little bit longer, but I guess I’ll just have to make due with the 80 billion photos I took. J

 

Last on the agenda was spending the rest of Christmas Day up the hill with Mom and Dan and the Creegers. It’s always a good time when we go up there and the kids had a blast! Dan made a delicious Crown Roast served with Mom’s scalloped potatoes…and lots of bread! Heavenly.

 

Aside from all the festivities, Ashlynne had a pretty big month developmentally. Her personality has just exploded. She is so vocal now, almost too much as she’s learned to shriek and scream her little heart out. She is saying dada all the time and loves to repeat “Uh Oh!” At the end of the month she started doing the army crawl and gets a little stronger with that every day. She still mostly rolls everywhere and has started exploring the kitchen cabinets and cat food bowl! She loves to bounce to the music of her toys, especially her little toy piano (we call her Linus!) and is obsessed with light switches and turning the fan off and on with Daddy’s help. Her appetitie for solid foods is off the charts and she has become more distracted during nursing sessions. She now weighs about 20 pounds and is chunkalicious!

 

She did fall ill in the middle of the month and ended up in the ER with pneumonia.  The antibiotics took care of it quickly and she was back to her energetic self again in no time. However, she did come down with hives from the Amoxicillin. Luckily her allergic reaction was no-where near as bad as Harlie’s had been and Benadryl got rid of the rash fast. Kids are so resilient.

 

My heart broke a little when an infant spot opened up at Sunshine and we decided to take Ashlynne out of Goddard. The brightside was that both girls could be together during the day and the cost savings would be HUGE, but I have loved Ashlynne’s teachers at Goddard and this change also meant an end to my lunchtime visits.

 

2013 was a pivotal year for us… beginning with new life, seeing us through big changes and ending with hope for an even brighter 2014.

Dance! Now Freeze!

Dance! Freeze! from Erin Wilson on Vimeo.

The Girls - August 2013

Harlie:

 

This was a big month for our big girl!!! A lot of firsts for her. She started the month out with her first time roller skating at cousin Mazzy’s 7^th birthday party! She had a great time and wanted to go FAST FAST FAST all the time. Even poor Maxie got run over by Auntie Erin as Harlie tried to race around the rink. *Note to self: Let go of Harlie’s hand next time* All the 2008 babies are getting so big it’s such fun to watch them run around in a pack doing all the big things now.

The day after the party was Harlie’s first trip to the dentist. I was so nervous about how her experience would go since she’s been afraid about getting her teeth drilled and not wanting it to hurt, but we assured her that she’d just be getting her teeth cleaned and counted, and so luckily there wasn’t any kicking and screaming to get her there. She was shy at first around the hygienist, Sue (a good friend of the Uncle Josh and Auntie Keri), but after some treats and jokes, she came around and was happily cheesing for the camera and handled the x-rays like a pro. We’re happy to report NO cavities and Sue and the dentist said her teeth look great! As we left, Harlie asked when we could come again! Yay!

Bathtime has turned officially changed to showertime for Harlie. We got her a hot pink loofah (ok I think technically it’s called a mesh sponge, but we all say loofah, right?) and Scott taught her how to set the water to the right temperature and wash her hair and body and she takes it all very seriously. Yesterday she was calling for me with concern in her voice and I was a little worried she had slipped, but when I got there she pleaded with me to help her close the shower curtain all the way (the rings stick to the rod sometimes), so she didn’t let the water out! J I can’t tell you how awesome it is to just send her off to take a shower and have her do it all herself!

Harlie has become increasingly interested in drawing and painting lately and creating little picture books. Just recently her drawings have started to become much more detailed and it’s fun to see her imagination come to life. She also enjoys completing her “homework” pages from a kindergarten prep workbook I bought her, which is encouraging. Lucky for us, she idolizes her big cousin Mazzy so if Harlie can do homework (or anything for that matter) like Mazzy does, she’s all over it! It’s hard to believe she’ll be starting school next year.

Ashlynne: 

Oh my sweet baby girl. She is getting so big and active. While she isn’t sitting up on her own yet, she loves to roll and roll all over the place. You can’t turn your head for a second before she’s rolled herself across the room and is chewing on the blinds or has her legs stuck under the couch. I think she may be close to sitting up, since she'll sometimes teeter for a couple seconds before eventually toppling over. I can't wait for that, because then maybe she'll stay put for a few minutes at a time. :-)

Knock on wood I think we may be lucky enough to have another little foodie on our hands. Ashlynne is enjoying solids and really loves bananas, applesauce, sweet potatoes and carrots.  She's not a big fan of avocados right now though, and I'm hoping it doesn't stick like with her brother! But she's continuing to grow at a steady pace. I just took her for her 7 mo. well baby appointment and she weighed in at 16.6 pounds (37th percentile) and is 26 inches (34th percentile)long. Since birth she's gained almost 10 pounds and grown 6 inches! I'm thrilled because her height and weight are still proportionate but her percentiles have increased about 10%, since her 5 mo appointment.

Ashlynne's sleep patterns remain about the same....waking usually at least once a night, but sometimes she'll surprise and sleep all the way through. Solids seem to be definitely helping, but we will probably need to start sleep training before it becomes a consistent thing. It's not ideal to do that right now with everyone's close sleeping quarters and besides, my heart's not in it anyway, but from experience, I know that's most likely the path we need to take when we're ready.

Little sissy continues to be a really happy and sweet baby, showing us her snow angel-jumping jack moves whenever she's happy to see us and flashing that million dollar smile of hers. She loves to talk and squawk and scream when she's excited. She can hold on to our arms now when being carried and gives the best hugs and open mouth kisses.

We're seven months in and  smack dab in the middle of magic baby bliss-land! I feel so lucky.

The Girls - July 2013

Harlie insisted on wearing her new princess jammies for this month's photo. I conceded because if anything is representative of who Harlie is right now, it's her wear-by-day-and-night princess jammies.

Harlie: Guess who's napping at daycare FINALLY!!! Woot Woot, this makes Scott and I so excited! Our evenings have been pretty delightful with a well rested Harlikins and it means we get to spend more time with her in the evenings which we all benefit from. Harlie has always been a great sleeper, but it's just not quite time to stop naps yet. She needs 'em.

Even though Harlie quit going to dance class last month, she's still a dancing queen, shakin' her stuff to Just Dance Kids on the Wii or teaching her sissy to "Dance! Now Freeze!" The profound impact that siblings can have on each other is so interesting. The fact that Ashlynne is already mimicking her sister is so cool as well as a little terrifying! ha!

Another passion of Harlie's has just emerged this month. We have on our hands a little wildlife enthusiast/explorer. :-) Come to find out, Harlie loves to watch survivalist shows and is obsessed with everything Shark! on Netflix. So yeah, not much My Little Pony this month. :-) Just this evening before bed she requested "the scariest one (shark show) Daddy."  She definitely doesn't get that from her sissy mama.

Some other relatively new things about Harlie:  Everything is "Awesome!"-- she only wants to wear seamless socks, if she wears them at all but usually she just wants to wear the same (sweaty, smelly) brown mary jane shoes to daycare everyday no matter what her outfit-- and she loves to randomly bust out singing "Every Rose Has It's Thorn" by Poison. The last time she did it, she and I were in Target. :-)


Ashlynne:
This has been a big month for little Ash. At the beginning of July, she started sitting up at the baby table at daycare and we got her a Bumbo for home. At first she would slouch over most of the time, but now she’s able to sit up in it with no problem. I think in the next couple of weeks she may be able to sit up unassisted. Her back is getting stronger everyday! At dinnertime, she’ll sit in her Bumbo on the table with us and tries to play skee ball with her toys as she launches them towards our plates. J
When she’s not causing a ruckus at the table, she’s actually eating with us now! Ash started solids on the 28th, just one day shy of her half birthday! We decided to have a picnic at the park across the street and thought it would be fun to let Ashlynne get her first bite there. She liked it, but was definitely a little skeptical about the mush on her tongue. It takes her a while to get it down, so we make it pretty thin for her. I think she likes being included though at dinnertime! I’m getting impatient because I want her to try ALL THE THINGS! . But for now we’re waiting several days between new foods, which is probably best anyway until she starts gaining confidence and gobbling it all down.
Ashlynne’s sleep schedule is RIDICULOUS right now. Swizzles goes down around 7:30, might wake up an hour or two later, and then definitely is up 3 more times (about every 2 hours) after that. Growth Spurt? Boredom? Separation Anxiety? Reflux? Gas? Got me!!!!!! J We recently switched back to the swaddle from first a sleepsack and then only her sleeper and it does seem to be helping her sleep longer the first stretch, and she’ll sleep about 4 hours before her first wake-up. Knock on wood, this becomes the trend. It is hard for me, especially since I should be pumping at 2:00am, and so most of the time she wakes and wants to eat, or she’s eaten an hour before and I don’t have much to pump! One thing that has been helping me save milk is nursing her at daycare when I drop her off. She consistently wakes up for the day around 5:30!, so the timing works out that I can feed her at drop off which often leaves me with an unused bottle of milk to take home. They are probably so sick of me at daycare because the last few days I’ve been feeding her 3 times a day there. At drop off, at lunch and at pick up. It’s SO much easier to feed her after work there, instead of at home, because there is a quiet corner I can sit with her in and then when we get home she’s not fussing and hungry while I unpack all of her stuff! Anyway, it’s working for us, so I’m going with it! J
I’d like to say Ashlynne is great at tummy time now and she would be if she wasn’t rolling onto her back all the time! Our little roly poly prefers to play on her side or back and has started rolling off her playmat, or getting blocked by the bendy poles that the toys hang from. It’s probably time to take those poles off, but since she likes to end up on her back anyway, they still give her something to look at and play with. Dilemma! J It’s so fun seeing her become much more active. She loves to kick her feet with the music, play the dancy freeze game with Harlie and dance with Daddy. Ah, it’s the best ever. She has also started doing this growl when she’s excited and it’s so cute. I wish I could get it on video but she never wants to perform when I have the camera ready.
This little girl puts a big smile on all of our faces. It’s amazing to see how much she has changed in six months. Time is flying way too fast for me.

The Girls - June 2013

 

Ashlynne: Oh my goodness, the 5th month with little sissy has been so much fun. She is so much fun to be around, you can't help but smile whenever she's near. Mostly because she's so full of smiles now. She'll notice us from across the room and smile, smile when Harlie comes over to say hi, and get distracted while nursing because she hears our voices. She'll unlatch, look up at me or over at whoever is talking and give a big old grin. Love it!  Changing diapers in one of my favorite things to do nowadays, because girlfriend loves the changing table. She loves the interaction with us and thinks it's playtime which it often turns into. Oh and the feet!!! She has recently discovered her feet and her not so little rump comes up as she grabs her feet and often pulls them to her mouth and it's just the cutest thing ever. EVER!  She loves to suck on everything, her toes included!

Our little baby is not so little anymore! Ashlynne had her 5 mo. well baby appt. and weighed in at 14 lbs, 1 oz. (25%) and 24.5 inches long (27%). This is a big jump from her weight at 3 mos. She's gained 4 lbs and 2.5 inches and I think most of it can be attributed to her pretty strict feeding schedule at daycare, her midnight feedings, and comfort nursing habits. I'll take the chub all day long though! she's even starting to get a little double chin! :-) Yesterday I packed up all of her 3 mos clothing...I just can't believe how fast time is flying. I feel like I blink and she grows an inch. Not fair!

Speaking of sleeping habits, Ashlynne is still waking 1-2 times per night but can be rocked back to sleep 50% of the time. She now goes down at home in a sleepsack but is swaddled at daycare which helps her nap longer.  She is a terrible crib napper and often ends up in the swing. These days at home it's so hard to put her down for a nap in her crib, she almost always wakes up the second we put her down. I have a suspicion she's starting to develop some separation anxiety which may be a contributing factor and I'll be interested to see how I report on that next month.

At the doc appt, Ashlynne received four shots and although she initially recovered quickly from the pokes, she was feverish and cranky for almost 48 hours afterwards. Note to self: do not schedule shots right before a holiday! Dr. Wang also said that her neck looked great and tested her range of motion. This was very encouraging. She's getting so much stronger on her belly and pushing herself up higher on her elbows.

In a couple more weeks we can start giving her cereal and boy is she ready. She is mesmerized by food, watching intently as it goes from our plates to our mouths. It actually makes us feel bad to eat in front of her, because you just know she wants what you have, She's so curious! I am hoping that a pre- bedtime snack might help her sleep through the night too but we will see.

And last but not least, I am very sad to say that Ashlynne got her first sunburn while in Tahoe last week. We had a great time and she was an absolute angel the whole time, but we underestimated the strength of the sun and patchy tree cover, which left her little face red and swollen for the last 2 days of trip. I think it hurt my heart more than it hurt her, which is a blessing...lesson learned for sure! Lucky for me her hair had just started to fall out at 4 1/2 weeks, so her scalp didn't get too red, but it wasn't fun sending her daycare with peeling cheeks. :-(

Harlie: Feisty, defiant and impatient would best sum up this last month with Harlie. She has really been enjoying her summer, but seems to be asserting her independence and fighting for control more than ever. Not sure how much of this is her four-ness and how much of it has to do with adjusting to the new daycare and sharing attention with Ashlynne. She still seems to enjoy her days at preschool and for the most part behaves while she is there, so I'm counting my blessings. We're trying to help her find a balance between following the rules and showing respect while being able to make some of her own choices. Mom's a control freak too, so it's been a struggle to say the least.

This is one of the reasons that she's taking a break from dance class right now. Hopefully, in a couple  months she'll be ready for it again. I do love to watch her get her groove on!

Some things she loved this month were: painting, singing the same verse from 22 by Taylor Swift and Call me Maybe by Carly Ray Jepsen over and over and over again (I think this is influenced by some top 40 exposure at daycare), wearing skirts, wearing shirts as skirts, decorating every room in the house with random toys, crepe paper and precious treasures (i.e. garbage - wrappers, weeds, dead flowers :-) ), wearing Mama's jewlery, and making Ashlynne smile.

The Girls - May 2013

Ashlynne: Strength development has been a little slow moving. I think the torticollis provides some obstacles but regardless, everyday Ash gets stronger and will play on her tummy a little bit longer.  At about 3 1/2 months we had a setback with her neck. Two weeks before, you could hardly tell that she favored her right side at all, and so I think we dropped the ball and got a little lax on her exercises. It was frustrating because she was about to start daycare where there was no way to make sure they took care with her positioning etc. It's doing much better now, but we continue to work with her and encourage her to use those muscles. Slow and steady wins the race, I guess.

Speaking of development, Ashlynne's sleep schedule has gone completely haywire -- I clearly didn't knock on enough wood since last month. Our once sleep-through-the-night-baby woke up 3 times before morning last night. This new trend started a couple weeks ago when I found her chatting and smiling one morning while on her belly in her Woombie. After smiling back at her I quickly sighed "Oh no". I knew the end of the Woombie magic had come....and way too soon! It is impossible for her to get her arms out of that thing so if she needed to push her self up from the mattress and her hands were down by her side, it could be bad news.  Since then she's been in a swaddle that helps her fall into a deep sleep, but she often has broken out of it a few hours later.  I don't know if it is a milestone (rolling), growing (chub a wub eats constantly), no more Woombie or a combination of all three that has contributed to the craptastic sleep schedule, but it's no bueno, man. She is usually up no less than twice in the night now. I think we'll be trying out the sleep sack soon and just maybe she'll find her way to her side or tummy because it's more comfortable and we'll all sleep a little bit better. Fingers crossed!

Some fun developments happened this month though that make all the sleep deprivation worth it. Ashlynne laughs now which is the cutest thing ever in the history of the world, no universe!  Especially the spontaneous laughs, where she'll just be chillin' and then burst into laughter at who knows what. That's the best! And when we can make her laugh, boy is that immensely gratifying.  I don't know if there is a greater reward than a baby laugh. Love love love.

She reaches for and holds toys now! Which is especially helpful when I leave her at daycare, so that I can set her down and distract her with a toy, instead of just watching her watch me walk out the door.  At home it's been fun watching her get to now her toys too. Her faves are Mr. Moosey and the monkey that hangs from her play gym. She loves to chew and suck on everything so it's about time to get her some teethers and other gnaw-friendly trinkets.

As I mentioned, Ash started daycare at 16 weeks old.  It's going well and her teachers seem to really care about her. She's also sleeping well there now, although half of the time it's in a swing. As long as she's sleeping I'm happy---just mind her neck please! Blessed with a cold after her first week there, I'm just glad she started daycare in May and not in the fall or winter.  I'm hoping she stays relatively healthy during the summer months, but we'll just have to see...it's a spit swap fest for sure. Keeping up with her bottle demand has been a challenge. I'm just keeping up with the amount of milk she drinks, but creating a frozen stash has been difficult. I just hope we can make it to six months and then once she's on solids I should be able to save up a lot more for the freezer. I've been able to visit on my lunch hour everyday which is the best thing ever. I wonder how long I will be able to do that before she starts crying when I leave. I love it so much, I hope that day doesn't come soon.

Ashlynne has really filled out this month. I think she's in the middle of a growth spurt and her cheeks and thighs have really plumped up, and she's just the squeeziest! I can wait to see how much she weighs next month, I think she's growing at a faster pace than Harlie did at this age which in interesting. Soon she'll be out of her 0-3 month clothes.

Harlie: Currently obsessed with Jake and the Neverland Pirates (also a fave of cousin Max), I'm wondering if there is a Peter Pan trend happening. Last month it was Tinkerbell, now it's Jake. :-) Although she still loves mermaids and princesses too. Gosh I can't wait to to take her to Disneyland. CANNOT WAIT!!!

Harlie is doing well at daycare. Some mornings she is sad to see daddy go but recovers quickly and enjoys playing with her new buddies. Jennifer says she is well behaved  and although she is not regularly napping, she'll stay quiet. It's difficult for me not knowing all about her day. She doesn't come home with a daily report like she did at Jessica's. The control freak in me still wants to know every single thing she eats and what activities she's done that day, but I supposed this is only preparing me for when school starts, and the loss of control that comes with that.

I've been especially nostalgic with Harlie these days. I miss her littleness and have been giving her more squeezes, breathing in sweat and sunscreen while telling her I love her and hoping to hear back "I love you too, Mama."

News alert: Harlie likes chicken again! Scott bbq'd some chicken thighs last night and Harlie just raved about how it was SO good! She had two pieces even. She's a funny one...keeps us on our toes. She is  hungry all the time as well (even daycare made a comment about how much she eats) and always wants MORE FOOD! Guess she must be going through a growth spurt too. In fact we're all ravenous in my house these days....this isn't so good for my grocery budget. :-)

Harlie started a new dance class with her pal Elinor. I like this one better because the parents can actually sit in class and watch instead of peer through the window. She has a recital next month which should be hilarious to watch. Gosh they are just so cute at this age...when having fun is the most important thing above everything else, like technique! :-)

What a week!

It's day one of my four day weekend and boy do I need it. Both girls started daycare this week....and luckily Harlie loves her new place, which makes me so happy and relieved. Scott drops her off and picks her up each day and says he's really pleased with the environment there. Oh, thank God. Ashlynne's first day at Baby Club Med (thanks Jessica for the analogy) was Monday and after 4 weeks at home with Scott, I was nervous about being prepared, but grateful I wouldn't be starting back to work the same day. I had become accustomed to being away from her  for 4 hours at a time, so now I just had to handle handing her off to PERFECT STRANGERS. But wouldn't you know as I fumbled my way around the infant room I totally started to lose it. I felt anxious as I put her milk away and stuffed her bibs and crib sheets into her cubby, cutely decorated with a big strawberry and "Ashlynne" written in Sharpie.  And then, as I bent down to take Ashlynne out of her carseat, my eyes filled with tears. Big juicy ones that I couldn't keep in by tilting my head back and taking a deep breath. I pulled Ashlynne out and hugged her tight, burying my face in her hair and then the ugly cry hit. Oh freakin' no! I was so embarrassed and sad and wanted to run back home with her. Luckily one of the girls was very sweet and reassured me that she knows it's hard and that they feel like crying for us when parents have to leave them for the first time (I can't imagine this is true but it did make me feel better). The best part of that day and every day since has been making my visit during lunch time-- to nurse and cuddle Ashlynne and witness a small piece of what it's like for her while I'm a work just around the corner.

Luckily her sleep improved as the week went on...

Each subsequent day has brought challenges, one of them being on day two when I sent 3 bottles of milk and was told at lunch time that they wouldn't be enough to last the day. Ashlynne hadn't been napping well and had been acting hungry so down the hatch all that hard earned liquid gold went. Not a great time for a growth spurt Ash. For real. This stuh-ressed me out so much that I had my mom pick Ash up early from daycare and had to come up with a strategy to boost my supply stat. Adding nightly pump sessions was obvious, and then dear Melanie gave me a ton of advice that I'll be using as well. Which leads me to today and the nursing vacation Mel suggested. Aside from helping Scott take the Toyota into the car shop, Ashlynne and I stayed in bed all day long...eating, playing, eating, eating, sleeping, and eating.

 Harlie joined us for a couple hours to watch Brave and snuggle. Then she and Scott spent the afternoon together having lunch and experiencing Glow Bounce at Bounce U. She had a great time and I was so glad they were able to have some quality time together, which can be hard to come by these days. Life is CHAAAAAOS lately. This video of the two of them makes my heart smile.


Glow Bounce - Scott and Harlie from Erin Wilson on Vimeo.

Tears

I have a vivid memory of one of the last times Harlie fell asleep on my chest. I was sitting on my bed most likely watching Bravo DVR'd while I nursed her. When she had finished I laid her on my shoulder and she fell asleep. As I felt her sweet warm breath on my neck I told myself not to forget that moment, for it might be the last. For several minutes I just closed my eyes and kissed her head breathing in that intoxicating new baby smell, wanting to stop time.

Today, as I sit with the heft of my precious Ashlynne on my chest, the first tears since being back to work are rolling down my face. Lazy mornings like this will be few and far between now, and Ash is growing so fast that I fear moments like this will be fading fast too.

 A few minutes ago, I took a picture and sent this text to Scott (afraid that my voice would wake her up):

"I have so much to do but I don't want to get up. I keep thinking it could be the last time she sleeps on me like this.😥"

He looked up at me with a pout then said , "It's ok, we have all day..."

So yeah, I guess I'm not moving. Packing up those newborn clothes can definitely wait.

Just the way it goes...

Sweet Ashlynne,

It is terribly unfair that I have to go back to work in eleven days when we've just gotten to know each other. I can finally tell when you are tired, pissed off, or need a change of scenery. I know what things might keep you occupied for just 10 more minutes while I make Harlie her lunch, how to coax you into letting your stubborn eye lids give into sleep, where to tickle to get the biggest smiles and what songs will distract you while "we" do your exercises. 

Daddy gets to take over soon and while I wish I could be home too, I'm so happy he gets to have this time with you. I know it won't be easy, life has been pretty hectic these days....but just like all big changes, when journeyed through together, the bond grows stronger.  You are going to love being home with him. He's way more fun than I am. And he loves you something fierce.

Wish me luck Butter Cup. I miss you already.

Mama

The Girls - March 2013

 

Harlie: Picky McPickertons! Someone's tastebuds must be changing and Mama's not happy.  My eat anything try anything gal has been refusing certain food lately. Some of which used to be her favorite as a babe (sniff sniff).  She no longer wants to eat tomatoes, blueberries, frozen strawberries - "Warm please!" (fresh), strawberry yogurt, bananas (this one has been on the outs for awhile now) and chicken on the bone (Austin predicts she will become vegetarian).  However, she will go to town on some marshmallow chicks or pee pees as she calls them. "The Easter Bunny gave me chocolate PEE PEES!" :-)

This reminds me of some other words she mispronounces which make Scott and I smile like wisgusting, blueblerries and adocado.

Some of Harlie's favorite things this month are Austin's track meets, Star Wars, My Little Pony, taking care of her babies, eating ALL THE CANDY, picking out her own ensemble (and mom's too tired to care how eclectic it is) and refusing to do most things that are asked of her. She has her own agenda and wants to do it all her way.  Ballet starts on Friday and explaining to her that there are certain dress requirements has been a challenge.  She would gladly go dressed as a disco ball if allowed. But I guess honestly I would too if I was four.

 Ashlynne: Last week I took Ash to see Dr. Wang, and aside from learning that she now weighs a hefty 8 1/2 pounds (3.6 percentile -just like sissy at that age), we also confirmed that she has a condition called Torticollis ("twisted neck"). She's most likely had it since birth from being stuck in the same position in-utero. Basically it means that the muscles on the right side of her neck are shortened and so she tilts her head towards her right shoulder most of the time. Dr. Wang said that it will go away as long as we work to correct it. This means stretching and strengthening exercises 4-5 times a day, lots of tummy time and constant re-positioning.  We'll have her re-assessed at her well baby appointment. If she hasn't made progress, we'll have to start physical therapy.

In happier news, she is smiling a lot and is becoming more talkative with squeals and coos.  Her awake and alert periods are getting longer and longer and will tolerate playtime much more now. However her favorite activity is still nursing and she is a serious sleep fighter. She doesn't go down without a fight!  Last week this made bed time a big challenge. SO tired but she just doesn't want to give in to it.

However, best news of all is that once she's down, anywhere between 8:30 (yay) and 10:00 (boo), she now sleeps through the night until 6:30am!  It's pretty awesome. I really should be getting up to pump around 2:00am, but I have been enjoying my sleep!  

Ashlynne has really been enjoying bathtime and since she has some cradle cap we have been treating that with olive oil during each bath. It's working well and will hopefully keep it at bay.

Ashlynne's first Easter was yesterday and we all had a lot of fun eating and hunting and eating and eating!

Ashlynne Marie

Here's our brand new baby girl who arrived 4 weeks ago, on January 29th at 8:58 am. She was 6 lbs, 12 oz, 20 inches long with a full head of light brown hair.

So in love....

Birth story details to come later. But I thought I should announce her birth on here before posting her 1 month photo! :-)

39 Weeks

How far along are you?: 39 Weeks

Total weight gain: 29 pounds. Well, I think this week on maternity leave actually reduced my water retention (no more swollen ankles!), so that probably accounts for the 1 lb. drop.  Interesting that I gained exactly 29 pounds when I was pregnant with Harlie too. Hmmm, we'll see if I make it another week to weigh myself again....uh, I HOPE NOT!

How big is the baby?: 7 pounds and 20 inches. Aye aye aye!!! Already bigger than H was!

Maternity clothes: I have been in yoga pants for a week straight now and it's been awesome.

Stretch marks?: They better not come now!

Sleep: I pee every hour now...the awesomeness abounds!

Best moment this week: Being able to relax at home while Harlie has been at daycare or napping has been a huge luxury....it's been so fun! I feel like I'm playing hooky, but I don't feel guilty about it, because I'm still in nesting mode. This basically means my house isn't a complete disaster and that makes me feel productive, because normally I hate to clean. I totally wish I had a cook though.....that part I could do without right now!

Movement: Much more active this week, so my fears are gone about that.

Food cravings: Coke, salmon, chocolate

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: I have been crazy with anticipation since the 38 week mark and it means I'm over-analyzing every little sensation.  This week I've had quite a bit of tightening (Braxton Hicks), cramping and lower back pain. I also keep losing bits of my MP (I'll use an acronym, so as not to gross all  5 of you out), and have been nauseous the last couple of days.  Signs point to early labor but as everyone knows these symptoms could last for weeks still!

Belly button in or out: Still in.

What I'm looking forward to: The sign that it's time to to GO!!!! I just want to be sitting in my hospital bed ready for Ashlynne's arrival. Pain-free please!

Again

Yesterday, I watched Harlie's 1st Year slideshow (twice) and bawled my eyes out. For this slideshow I had included video clips ( I should do this more!) and it really helped bring back those memories, those precious moments. Becoming a mother to a teeny tiny newborn was an awe inspiring, joyful and humbling experience. One I didn't think I'd get to live through again, which made me sad. I thought Harlie was truly the last one because it just wasn't possible to have another baby-- not at this time, not in my world, not now after everything that had happened. And yet.  And YET. Here we are, awaiting little Ashlynne Marie.

  

I was bawling yesterday because I get to do it all over again and they were tears of joy and anticipation. Scott and I and the miracle maker made it happen somehow and everything is gonna be ok. We're ready. The time is right. We just didn't know it before.

Harlie Shavonne, my heart feels like it might burst with how much love I have for you.

But little Ashlynne Marie, it's managed to grow twice as big now that you are in our lives and I can't wait to fill it up...all over again.

38 Weeks

How far along are you?: 38 weeks, 1 day

Total weight gain: 30 pounds

How big is the baby?: Almost 6.8 lbs and 19.5 inches long.

Maternity clothes: I've started to grow out of some of them!

Stretch marks?: They better not come now!

Sleep: All I do is have baby dreams all night long.....

Best moment this week: On my last day of work before maternity leave, I was let off early, so I scooped Harlie up from daycare and headed to Faith Nails for a pedicure. It was Harlie's first time getting her nails done and she was super excited. I was in desperate need of a pedicure (my feet were frightening) and was even more in need of some pampering. I thought it would be fun to have a little Mommy and Me date with H before Ashlynne came and I'm so glad we did. The pedicure felt soooooooo good and Harlie was loving every moment getting her nails and toes painted.

Movement: Oh Boy! Well I had a little freakout on Saturday because Ashlynne hadn't been very active and I was afraid something was wrong.  So I drank some juice, laid on my side, and 15 minutes and a pep talk (text) from Melanie later I started to feel her kick. After downloading a kick count app (iPhones are awesome), I was reassured that she was ok and calmed down. But then I had my OB appt on Monday and just mentioned to her that she had been a little less active lately. Not trying to make a big deal out of of it, but wanting to let her know. Being cautious Dr. Juhn suggested I head over to Mercy on my way home to have the baby monitored, just to make sure. She was pretty confident everything was fine and that I'd be in and out in 30 minutes. Better safe than sorry!  I head over there around noon (starving) with Keri at home with 3 kids expecting me soon so she can help me put some baby stuff put away. Well, 5 hours later after pulling Scott away from his golf game --I've been monitored for 3 hours, then a false alarm sends me to have an ultrasound done to check amniotic fluid levels and all kinds of other stuff--we find out everything is just fine and I get to finally go home.  The bright side is that we'll know our way to Labor and Delivery now, since they've had a renovation since Harlie was born and I got totally lost on my way in yesterday (that would be no good if I was in actual labor) AND we got another confirmation that our little peanut is still a girl!!!  Yay, since I took the tags off all the clothes already. :-) Also, another funny thing.... I've been avoided and craving deli meat my entire pregnancy, being super cautious about BACTERIA, OH NO! And then yesterday, after mentioning that I should have stopped for lunch had I known I'd be at the hospital so long, the nice nurse brings me a sandwich, a turkey sandwich!  I just had to laugh, and it was GOOD!

Food cravings: Sushi and OJ

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: I'm still 3 cm dilated and 50% effaced. Doctor Juhn says that is normal for a second pregnancy and says my body is ready whenever baby decides to come.  She actually told me she thinks my labor will last about 4 hours. 4 HOURS?! Holy crap. I'm legitimately freaked about getting my epidural in time.  But she did say as soon as my contraction are 10 minutes apart to come right in and if my water breaks first, to head to the hospital within an hour at the latest. So we'll see. It'll be interesting to see if her prediction holds true.

Belly button in or out: It wants to pop out, but it's pretty flat.

What I'm looking forward to: Enjoying maternity leave but also I can't to hold my new baby girl.  It's not a bad place to be in right now....filled with anticipation and being able to focus 100% on her arrival.  Baby is on the brain 24/7 now and I like it.

It was cute, Scott actually suggested that we take another progress picture given that she might come any day. AND he told me to wear this sweater because it makes my belly pop. :-)

Also, here are some photos of baby Ashlynne's space in our bedroom. Thanks to Melanie and Keri, we were able to make it special with their custom-made shower decorations. I love it.

37 weeks

Gosh I just looked back at my 36 week update from when I was pregnant with Harlie and I really am carrying so similarly. It's kinda trippy looking back.  Seems so long ago, but the memories are so clear. 

How far along are you?: 37 weeks, 3 days

Total weight gain: 30 pounds

How big is the baby?: Almost 6 1/3 lbs and 19 inches long.

Maternity clothes: Glad to almost be out of them!!!

Stretch marks?: No, but super itchy belly!

Sleep: I've noticed a pattern the last few nights. I'll wake up to go pee about 4 times before 1:00am and then twice again before I magically wake-up 2 minutes before my alarm goes off at 6.

Best moment this week: My super intimate and totally awesome baby shower that Autumn threw for me with the help of Melanie and Keri.  So much love and laughter in that room...All of these women are the best friends and mamas a girl could ask for. I'm so so lucky to have them in my life.

Movement: Way active today!!! She had slowed down a little earlier this week, but has been goin' gangbusters all day.

Food cravings: Fruit and cake

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: Well....at my 37 week appointment I measured 2-3 cm dilated and 50% effaced. For comparison's sake, at 37 weeks with Harlie I was 3 cm dilated and 70% effaced, and had her one week later. My Braxton Hicks contractions have been off the hook today and I've been having some cramping.  My body feels like it's getting ready, but I'd still like more time!

Belly button in or out: Innie for life.

What I'm looking forward to: Tomorrow, which is my last day of work before maternity leave...will be so nice not to have work on my mind as well as everything else!

This girl is my lifesaver...always there for me with a solution and a "snacky" when I need them most. She is the yin to my yang, and I love her so.

Autumn's beautiful home showcases Mel's thoughtful and absolutely perfect decorations, which made me freakin' cry.

Mel, the third twin sister or "thwista". She just gets me...the good the bad and everything in between. That we get to have baby girls together is one of the biggest blessings in my life.

My big sis who's been my protector and my advocate, my playmate and confidante, my accomplice and sounding board, really just my everything...I think I'm the luckiest girl in the world to be able to walk through life with her...womb to tomb, baby!

The best Mama's ever!  I seriously struck gold in this department. And both are the most caring grandmothers to my children which makes my heart sing. I know what it's like to have an amazing grandmother, and I'm so happy that Austin and my girls will be just as fortunate.

Da girls!

36 Weeks

How far along are you?: 36 weeks, 2 days

Total weight gain: 29 pounds

How big is the baby?: Almost 6 lbs and 18.5 inches long - wow

Maternity clothes: I wish I could live in yoga pants and tank tops.

Stretch marks?: Nope

Sleep: I want to say I'm sleeping a teensy bit better...still up a gazillion times a night to pee but the insomnia has subsided a bit the last few days.

Best moment this week: Scott and I took Harlie to Target so she could pick out a toy and outfit for her little sister. That was pretty fun. Here's a look at what she picked:

Movement: Still very active...super alien belly.

Food cravings: Grapefruit Juice

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: I think she's dropped because I can feel the weight of her down really low and my belly looks different. It's not as high and sticks out more. This has helped my heartburn too.  Also at my 36 weeks appointment my doc did a cervical check and I'm dilated to a "wiggly 1 cm" or 1.5cms.  My cervix is still nice and long though so I think I still have at least a couple weeks to go, but hoping for 3!  We have made progress on our baby to do list (rearranged furniture in bedroom to make room for pack and play, cleaned car seat cover, bought snacks, gas up truck...) but this weekend we need to pack our bags, get carseat in truck, clean the house, wash 0-3 month clothes, buy baby toiletries/medicine, and make a plan for Harlie and Austin.

Belly button in or out: In

What I'm looking forward to: Being ready!!!! So I can relax and enjoy the last few days with Harlie before little sister comes and let the excitement take over. I cannot wait to see what Ashlynne looks like, just cant wait to meet her!

Looking down...

 

35 Weeks

How far along are you?: 35 Weeks, 1 day

Total weight gain: 27 pounds

How big is the baby?: 5 1/4 lbs and 18 inches long - just about baby size...OMG!

Maternity clothes: Over them already.

Stretch marks?: Not yeeeeeet. Fingers crossed.

Sleep: I am officially couch bound now as it's the only place that I can get comfortable and sleep for any period of time.

Best moment this week: Aside from all the Christmas festivities which were fun, meeting baby Everleigh was a pretty awesome moment. Can't believe Scott and I will have our own little one very soon.  I'm a leetle freaked because H was 2 weeks early and the thought of A coming in 3 weeks is freaking me out. I hope she wants to stay put just a little bit longer so we can get everything ready!

Movement: The doc confirmed that our Peanut is head down, with her back primarily positioned on my right side, making my belly lopsided.  But she still moves a lot and will swing over to the left side sometimes, but not for very long. She feels very low.

Food cravings: Orange Juice again.

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: Braxton Hicks contractions have increased this past month. Usually when I stand up from a seated position and start walking.

Belly button in or out: In

What I'm looking forward to: My mini shower in a couple weeks. Love my friends.
 

32 Weeks

How far along are you?: 32 Weeks

Total weight gain: 25 pounds

How big is the baby?: 3 3/4 lbs. and 16.7 inches long

Maternity clothes: I really need some maternity leggings and tights, I just don't think I'll ever get around to getting some, so I have a 5 day rotation going on. Stylin' ova here.

Stretch marks?: I was marveling at just how many I got the first time around...man are they PRONOUNCED now. So attractive.

Sleep: I just came down with a cold so sleeping should be even awesomer than normal! Super sarcastic today, huh.

Best moment this week: Being able to spend most of the weekend vegging and not having to do anything I didn't want to do because Austin was with Jenny and Harlie was with Grandma and Nana nearly the whole time. Also, Indian take-out and Creeger holiday parties. Also, also, Scott crashed at Keri's on Friday night and I got the WHOLE bed to myself. YES!

Movement: This little peanut has started sucker punching my guts. Harlie never did this. I'm wondering if this might be a personality trait...Oh wait, Harlie does this now, so maybe the in-utero boxing is a sign that she's getting it out of her system now.

Food cravings: Holiday cocktails. Do they make N/A Baileys?

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: Measuring 31 weeks today at my doc appointment.

Belly button in or out: In

What I'm looking forward to: Getting over the cold!

KC photo again!

31 Weeks and The Polar Express

How far along are you?: 31 Weeks, 2 days

Total weight gain: 24 pounds

How big is the baby?: 3 lbs. and 16 inches long

Maternity clothes: Yes everything is.

Stretch marks?: I think the one I thought I saw was a false alarm. No marks yet.

Sleep: Not so good...insomnia is kicking in and sucks a big one!!!

Movement: Hiccups! And movement all the time. Everyone keep telling me how small I look, but feeling her move like crazy all day long reassures me that she's growing just fine.

Food cravings: Chocolate chip cookies! Thanks Keri.

Food aversions: None

Labor signs: None.

Belly button in or out: In

Best moment this week and what I'm looking forward to:  I'm combining these two because they are related this week. Experiencing the Polar Express train ride in Old Sac with my family was magic for me. I love Christmas. I love it so much, I want to kiss it on the mouth and make it pancakes for breakfast. And the absolute BEST thing about having children is just being in their presence when they experience new things, and find the magic in everything around them. Harlie is in love with Christmas too like most little kids are and hunting for trees, putting up decorations, pouring a glass of egg nog and seeing Santa Claus are just MORE fun with her around. It was fun with Austin too when he was little, but now that he's older, it's different of course. The smile of a small child that believes could mend any broken heart, I tell ya.  When the train pulled up to the "North Pole" and Harlie was waving at Santa through that train window, I just didn't want to be anywhere else.**

Anyway, this brings me to what I'm looking forward too, which is experiencing these first moments of awe and wonder all over again with Ashlynne. Harlie still has many years left of being a little girl and that make me happy, especially since she'll have a baby sister to pal around with. But I just cherished those first years with Harlie so much...where everything was new and the joy so pure and sweet. Getting a chance to do that twice is a huge gift and I don't take it for granted.

**And also, just as a side note...Old Sac is so lovely and charming during the holidays...in a Christmas Carol kind of way without all the sad Tiny Tim business.