Squooshi

We've been on a baby food making journey for years! With little Tux things got a whole lot more convenient and even more affordable with the $20 purchase of these Squooshi pouches. The pouches are refill-able and make baby food feeding on-the-go a whole lot less messy.

Squooshi aren't without their flaws though. Don't zip the ziplock all the way and you have what we call a big fat mess. And let's not miss the Made in China printed on the bottom. Wonh-wonh. So, forgive the manufacturer and make sure the top and bottom closures are secure and you are good. to. go.

The picture above is like many I've taken while we enjoy snacks after mommy's workout. This day in particular, Tucker said "nums" for roasted acorn squash, organic peas, wild rice/lentil mix and organic apples. Fruit, fiber, protein and vegetable? And I made it myself? Win-win-win-win-winning.

Hey! Hey! Looky here! $5 off coupon expires March 15. Worth it!

Mattress rodeo

Sophie is going to have a pretty sweet suite in a few days: mostly hand made, thrifted, low-VOC, and organic. I socked away the bedding a few weeks back, material for the curtains (still to-be-sewn) and just now purchased the long-awaited mattress. We have a really easy homemade headboard waiting to be attached to the wall (courtesy Aunt Nancy), and she'll be getting the thrifted dresser that I purchased and painted for Tucker's nursery. While she doesn't have 100% organic bedding and we won't be springing for the untreated natural wood box spring, we are still making big strides in lowering the chemical load of this house one purchase at a time.

Here is the mattress round up. It's a rodeo out there of information, mis-information, "green-ing" of things are not even close to "green," and extreme over-use of the word "eco." Don't get me wrong, there is a plethora of options - and good ones, too. Simply depends on your budget. Here was the list of budget friendly options that I pulled from.

I turned to the master of all things inexpensive, European and "home," and wound up with my first option, the Ikea Sultan Edsele. The comfort is firm and it's the most natural of the mattress they offer. The inside is composed of seven inches of 85% natural latex and 15% synthetic latex. Just like every other mattress in the US, they must meet flame retardant safety standard, yet there is no information on non-toxic flame retardants... so it is safe to assume they are of the toxic variety. However, a mommy group friend told me that she actually cut open the mattress exposing the inside and was able to simply remove the layer that Ikea inserts for US customers that is treated with the flame retardant chemicals. And she told me that natural latex is so comfortable. So, this one stayed on my list. Ultimately I decided I would rather not spend this amount of money to dismantle a brand new product. I'll wait until I see a how-to on Ikea Hackers. $929

Another mattress I took great interest in for it's cool design and awesome marketing: the Nook Sleep System Full size Pebble. The middle of this mattress is made with a non-toxic foam core (read: certipur, a certified manufactured foam, not a natural product) and then topped with one inch of natural latex foam. What's on the outside of this mattress is what makes it different than the rest. The cover is removable and washable! Pretty cool for potty training and every-day kid accidents. Here is a link to their education section. Nook mattresses are made in North America. The rise is six inches and it's compression rolled to ship, no coils in this bad boy. Alas, it's not organic and for that price, I can still get organic. $995

Last but not least, and the winner of the Mattress rodeo: The Naturepedic No-Compromises Organic 2 in 1 Ultra kids mattress. Packed with 528 coils and 100% organic cotton, the comfort is medium-firm. Three sides are water and dust mite proof (great for potty training/food/spills) and the other is a quilted, more plush side you can flip to later when kids are heavier/bigger. The 100% cotton makes it hypo-allergenic with no wool or latex. It is also naturally dust-mite proof with it's polyethylene barrier (no PVC or vinyl here!). It's non-toxic flame retardant is composed of hydrated silica, baking soda and cellulose. NO phthalates (chemicals that act like hormones/endocrine disruptors). Here is a link to their education section. $999 directly from the manufacturer, but I purchased it from one of their preferred vendors (call to make sure) through Amazon for $899 and free shipping.

While you can easily spend $1300 to well over $2000 for an organic, natural latex full-size mattress for your kiddo, that just wasn't in our budget. There are other really great options if you pocket is a little deeper. If these price points are still out of reach, there is another way, too. My fellow green-mom Meagan told me how to take a conventional mattress and make it better:

Purchase the No-chem mattress wrap made of Polyethylene for $28.00 (non-toxic plastic wrap that doesn't allow off-gasses to escape into breathing space) and wrap those chemicals up tight! Now that you've created a noisy, plastic-y sleeping foundation, purchase an organic cotton or wool mattress topper, wrap it with a protective cover and slap on your fitted sheet. Then pray to God that you don't go flying across the room when all of the elastic gives way and the covers lose their grip :) (Organic cotton or wool mattress toppers go for $200-$400.)

Like I said before, when we considered what was in a conventional mattress, there was no looking back. We had to jump in with both feet and do a lot of reading and asking questions. Hope this was helpful... to at least one of the two people reading it. 

Sleep on it

We've had a successful run at the BGB experiment (Big Girl Bed) with the crib/toddler conversion and Sophie is ready for a real bed. The honest truth is that Tucker is officially ready for Sophie's sturdy crib that won't fall down as he rocks and rolls and bounces off the sides.

First day in big girl bed. I was nervous. She did great, per the usual.

But I had no idea that shopping for a mattress was going to be, um, horrifying. {Shakes fist at Google.} Before I continue, in full disclosure, all of the mattresses that currently reside in our home are of the regular store-bought variety (i.e. the carcinogenic, toxic kind), and it makes me ill.

There are no labeling requirements for mattress manufacturers. So unless you do some due-diligence research, you have no idea what you're spending a third of your life lying on - and breathing in. My kids have spent more than half their lives in bed (hands in the air for good sleepers!) and sleeping on these toxic little packages. Traditional mattresses are made with synthetic materials, Arsenic, Boric Acid, Formaldehyde, PVC, vinyl, Polyurethane, PBDE... known carcinogens that are banned in many parts of the world. These chemicals have been linked to skin irritation, respiratory problems, hormone disruption, fertility problems, learning disabilities, thyroid problems and even cancer. They can be traced in our breastmilk and in cord blood from newborns. Poison!

Mattresses made or sold in the USA are pumped full of poisons in order to meet fire "safety" requirements - they must resist open flames. Why? Because people died from fires that started as a result of smoking in bed.

As a mattress ages, it gets worse. The chemicals and compounds off-gas (that's the "new" smell) and create a cloud of hazardous fog in our breathing space adding to our already full chemical load.

Here is a really good FAQ on why you should buy an organic mattress.

Organic mattresses are made with organic cotton, wool, sustainably sourced natural latex, or a combination of these materials. With springs and untreated wood frame, or not. And the natural flame retardants (again - thanks for the frivolous requirements) are commonly made of natural wool or hydrated silica - or sand - that will melt instead of ignite.

So, to go organic or not? We vote yes. While I'm on the quest to lower the amount of toxic products in our home, we can only afford to do so one thing at a time. Now that it's time for this purchase, we're going organic for Sophie's new bed. Only the best for my best girl. But honestly, it's not even a question when we considered what is in a conventional mattress. 

There has been a significant amount of hand-wringing and hair-twisting when it comes to which mattress we would spring for. Organic mattresses can quickly jump to more than three times to cost of a traditional mattress and there are lots of options. Next up, the final selection!

Been a long time

I've missed you! Yes. I clicked on the "New Post" button. I've been thinking about this moment (and maybe even dreaming about it) for months. I have a lot of catching up to do. Since I am terrible at keeping baby books for my kids, this will have to suffice. And although I may not write often, I'm going to make a point to check in from time to time.

So, this isn't a promise-I'm-going-to-write-more and tell-you-wonderful-organic-products post,  it's more of a warning-I-might-be-writing-and-post-dating-some-things and who-knows-when-I'll-get-around-to-it.

Why today was so notable:

Sophie's use of the word "Scrubbly." I don't know what it means, but when I tried to use it in the context of "get your scrubbly little toes in these here socks," she was really offended.

Had a delicious hot meal for lunch that someone else made for me (hands in the air!). That's right, a delicious pear and goat cheese sandwich and homemade soup with my MIL.

I tried to take a nap today. Sophie dodged a nap today. Hubs worked from home and then wanted to chat/paint the new office. Dogs jumped up in the bed. All of these things equals no nap - a sign of the times to come.

Today I learned that paraffin candles are toxic. And that I can hand-make wool dryer balls with essential oils (coach me, Margaret!) that are safe and effective and they're going to kick the box of dryer sheets straight to the curb!

The last time Tucker was given a bottle was on Sunday. Today (Wednesday - four days later) he chugged his almond and rice milk combo from a sippy cup three times. THREE times in one day. Small victories.

And speaking of victories, dinner was a champion. Sophie was coaxed into eating, and Tucker had two helpings of: organic chicken, organic spinach, organic quinoa, garlic and crushed tomatoes - and each had a giant helping of organic kiwi. Hubby and I had the same, plus sauteed shredded Brussels sprouts (yes, you can buy them shredded, who knew) with balsamic vinegar.

So, in the mean time, between these insightful posts (which, you're on the edge of your seat for the next one, right?) if you don't already, you can keep up to date with me on Instagram: amybb80 Thanks for hanging in, checking in, leaving comments, and drinking wine. Mmm.

Sibling love

We stopped to take a few pictures in the pretty leaves before the raking madness began. Love my little blue-eyed beauties. Sophie's teachers were really impressed by her picture taking ability on school picture day. I wonder where she got all that practice :)

Mwah!

Superman.

Ma, check out this hair I've finally started growing!

No words, just love :)

Road trip!

Alternatively titled, All I need to know I learned from 22 hours in the car with my kids
Or, I used to hate road trips

There's nothing quite like a booster shot of super-mommy-ness to my ego other than two - count 'em, two - successful 11 hour road trip journeys with my two kids. Now I'm not suggesting that anyone else channel their inner mommy diva by hopping in the car and driving 600+ miles, but it worked for me.

Maybe a time or two I've doubted my mommy instinct, and doubted my children's ability to bounce back from a routine change (late naps or bedtime) or dietary indiscretion (processed food). I was so afraid they may melt down into a weeping pile of toddler-infant-babyGap-drool-and-snot on the floor. Rational me knows that is not going to happen.* Irrational me watches the clock and has more than once removed forks from hands mid-bite when we are approaching bedtime and are away from home. (Tell me I'm not the only one...)

Dear Self, doubt no more!

We got back from vacation number one: Lake Michigan (where it's like the beach but better - fresh water, little waves and no crabs, stingrays, sharks or other digit/limb removing creatures) and I had been thinking about driving the kids down to see my parents in Florida. With clean laundry, beach accessories, snacks and the double BOB already packed, we hit the road. Once we were on our way at 6:30am I knew we were locked in. I tried to quiet that little voice of doubt in the back of my mind; and quiet it did.

It was the perfect age for both of them. Sophie is so dialed into tv and movies that she had zero qualms about watching the screen for an entire day. Tucker is no longer nursing, so bottles were really easy to mix and administer. He's also just starting to worm around on the floor, so he isn't an anxious-I-want-to-run-everywhere toddler yet. (Although he is a oh-you-thought-your-floors-were-clean-watch-me-worm-around-and-then-check-my-onesie type of kid these days.)

All of our food and drink was packed for the day, so stops were mainly about gas, bottles, diapers and stretching our legs (as if we needed yet another great reason to delay potty training until 13 years old). We played on QSR playgrounds and rocked on the porch at Cracker Barrel and stopped about every three hours.

Our road trip was SO uneventful. Blissful, even. Tucker might make a peep every so often, but Sophie was quick to make a funny face or "speak whale" to make him giggle. Sophie watched Finding Nemo FOUR times on our return trip (where she learned to speak whale). Three stops on our way down south and two stops on the way back to KY.

Speaking of the return trip... I have a family member that once told me she used her daughters diapers to thwart extra stops if baby was sleeping but el baño was calling. Let me just tell you that a size four diaper does not accommodate the bladder of a 31 year old adult.

And that's all you need to know about 22 hours in the car with my kids.

*I'll still defend my nap/sleep/dietary choices as the number one reason why I have happy children 95% of the day.

Photos from our Florida trip. Not pictured: Tucker's first tooth, delicious, fresh shrimp and oysters, yummy burgers, Peg Leg Pete grouper sandwiches, infamous Brussells sprouts, a trip to the children's museum and six days of shake-the-house thunder, lightening and rain.

Girl loves some bubbles.

I really just take pictures of this swim suit
because I think it's so cute.
Going to sell it soon though :(

Happiest Baby on the Block.

Yaya and her babies.

Sophie and her Avengers "swim-a-ring"

Girl's got some hops.

Sweet thing.

I mean, this is not an act.
90% of her day is spent loving Tucker.

Beach bum.

Yes, the sun actually came out.

Sir splash-a-lot and Yaya.

Case and point.

Tucker's model face. Those lips!

"You would have more fun with
wet sand on your face."

New towel from Yaya's friend, Peggy!
(Her handmade creations are adorable, yall.)

Weekend in review, or, the crappity-crap-crap-crappiest weekend ever

I've been neglectful, friends. I've been meaning to write about Sophie's new phrases that drive me bananas are SO adorable:

Watch me do dis, mommy!
No, I can do it all.by.myself.
Mommy, look at me!
But, why?
Why?
Why?
But WHY?

And I've been meaning to tell you about this new venture if you haven't already heard: Bluegrass Bebe photography in Louisville (go on over and 'like' my page if you have a minute, it would mean a lot to me).

Also been meaning to write about Tucker (aka Super Baby) and just post some sweet pictures in general.

And finally to tell you about my furbaby Maddox who has officially torn her other ACL. My first born... its been really tough to see her age, but she is a champ. Still happy and still wagging that awesome boxer nubbin (or her "kickstand" as we like to call it).

But, I've just been a little busy.

We had an awesome weekend planned of good food, some outdoor adventures, a party to celebrate the engagement of sweet cousin Lindy, and probably some good drinks going down like water - you know how we like to do it on the weekends.

Instead, Sophie had some firsts that were probably inevitable for a toddler, but still unexpected. Her first big fat bloody event: landed face first into our brick fireplace, first trip to the emergency room and first stitches. It happened so fast I am not 100% sure how she fell. Daddy rushed her to the emergency room where she remembers nothing of the experience with the exception of Dora, stickers, slushies and two balloons. Phew. She has three stitches between her eyes and almost her entire nose is skinned and raw. I'm so super thankful that she still has all of her teeth and that her eye didn't catch the brick. That said, I'm still a mom and am concerned about scars on her face. We will be following doctors orders to a "T" to care for and protect the new skin that will grow back.

Not to be outdone, Tucker had a temperature that kept going up and down from a normal 98 up to 101.5 for more than 24 hours. Sophie was settled down watching a movie Saturday night (and still acting like a little drunk person from the meds) and I decided to take Tucker's temp one more time before he went down for bed. And the battery in the thermometer died. Which part of the plan, obv. Shakes fists to the heavens.

Two different stores and no replacement battery, I finally just bought a new thermometer. Back home, his temp registered at 103 which was the highest I've ever seen. Off to our second trip ever - and in the same day - to the emergency room where he rang in at 103.5 degrees. Thank heavens it was an ear infection (never thought I'd say that). And let me tell you how much fun it is to try and administer amoxicillian through a dropper to an infant. I kid. It is the opposite of fun.

Everyone slept through the night, but Sunday started at 5am with my early bird Tucker. When Sophie finally woke up around 8am she said, "Mommy, my face is coming off." I die. One of the bandages that Bryan taped her up with had peeled loose, and with no memory of her injury, of course she thought the bandage was her face coming off. I mean, who wouldn't?

Mommy and Daddy are exhausted - physically, mentally and emotionally. We all survived and everyone is generally happy. Just hoping that the week ahead is a little less eventful. And hoping Sophie leaves her stitches alone in bed tonight. So while we enjoy some Copper Cupcakes and a bottle of wine, we raise a glass to Lindy and Tim and to the close of this crappy weekend from the comfort of our cozy sofa. Salud!

These are the moments

I'm kind of obsessed with this picture. And I'm kind of obsessed with holding my baby boy whenever he wants me to right now. Because he won't be small forever. And he won't want his mama forever. These sweet, intimate moments are fleeting. And damn am I glad hubby got an iPhone and Instagram.

Tuesday thoughts

Can we first talk about this picture? Braided bangs, color blocking and a tiny guitar print jumper. I felt a lot more stylish than I think I actually looked... forgetting that I ditched the strapless bra for my oh-so-matronly nursing bra after lunch and a trip to the splash pad. Let's not miss that super sexy black thumbnail that is threatening to hang around, like, forever. Add to the fact that Bryan snapped this picture while he was putting together his own Father's Day present and I am the picture of a stylish, helpful, mother of the year... yeah, not so much.

Sometimes I look at pictures of my babes sitting in my lap like this and think, that kid used to be inside of my body. Now that is crazy.

Pouring one out today for our old Black and Decker blender. It was a wedding gift and I used it to make all of Sophie's baby food, some healthy toddler and mommy smoothies and a few batches of Tucker baby food, and it finally bit the dust on Monday (that sent butternut squash sailing across my kitchen, I might add). Currently in search of the next best thing that won't break the bank.

My hair is falling out in mass quantity again. I forget this fun part of post-partum.

I made my Change Your Life Brussels Sprouts yesterday and grabbed the 400 degree pan with bare fingers.

Sophie finally said "I want you to hold me" today instead of my favorite Sophie-ism ever: "I wanna hold you." Wahhhh. Stop growing up, already.

Finally, school is out for summer and I have yet to make any sort of weekly plans for the kids because I can't stop reading these damn Hunger Games books.

As she grows

My sweet, spunky, smart darling of a two year old is finished with her first year of preschool. She has changed in so many ways, made some new friends and has learned so many things under the careful watch and guidance of her dear teachers.

Will you stay this young, sweet and innocent forever, dear Sophie? Will you please always be my baby? I don't care right now if you always eat your peas, but I do want you to stay hopeful and energetic and curious and happy - always. I love you!

First day of school. 

Last day of school.

My sweet girl.

Six months old

We are over the moon excited that the "weight issue" is past us, at least for now. At Tucker's six month well baby visit today, he rang in at 14lb 7oz, which is in the 4th percentile. Watch out, we're climbing the charts! This is largely due to supplementing breast milk with some formula and adding in solids at least twice a day. His palate is ever-expanding and so far includes:

Green beans

Sweet potato

Carrots

Avocado

Banana

Pears

Apples

Brown rice

Mango

He is sitting up for short periods of time and pushing up with strong arms when he's on his belly. He's started with "ba-ba-ba" and other short syllable sounds in just the last few days. He loves watching Sophie run around and dance and jump for him - she even helps sing him to sleep with her favorite Twinkle Stars. He's just a little love bug all around and I'm lucky to be his Mom. I love you, Buddy!

Some pictures from last weekend for your viewing pleasure.

Shop til you drop

I love a good consignment sale. 

Back in Charlotte, I went to all of the consignment sales at the beginning of the season to shop for Sophie. Here in Louisville I'm still learning which ones are worth my time, since my time is a little less these days. Little Treasures is my running favorite. Even though I really prefer girls clothing options to boys, I was still able to find some really cute jumpers for the little dude. I spent a grand total of $72 and walked away with all of this loot! We have anchors, watermelons, giraffe and smocks... all gently used (but already awash in Dreft and hanging to dry in my laundry room!) and all for the price of one brand new smocked dress.

Not only do I revel in the thrill of the hunt and being frugal, I'm also happy to lend a hand to the environment. According to this lady, it takes 1/3 pound of synthetic fertilizer to grow enough cotton to make ONE new cotton t-shirt.

Snow day

It's a brilliant 65 degrees outside right now. Yesterday... 4 inches of snow. "What the what?" you say? I know. I layered up myself first, then Sophie, then Tucker. Then Tucker thought it would be a good time to fill his pants. So, mommy is already sweating and Sophie is starting to get ants in her pants, but Tux needed a diaper change. Off with the fleece jumper, and the cotton jumper, then do over. Then fun doesn't stop there. We spent more time getting dressed for the snow than we actually spent outside enjoying the snow. 

Later in the day, we Skyped with Yaya. Sophie needed some sympathy since her mean mommy made her go out and play in the snow. She told Yaya (and anyone else that asked), "It's cold out in the snow." And it sort of sounds like this, "Mommy made me go outside in my shorts and I was freezing! Someone help me!"

"It's cold out in the snow."

She was infinitely happier the next day in the sunshine with her pahcorns (popcorn).

And the award goes to...

It is award season, folks. That seems to be all I hear about on television these days. (Well, I lie: political debates, the Super Bowl and whatever is going on in My Little Ponies. But, back to the awards.) I started to wonder if nominated, what awards would I win?

The first one that immediately came to mind was Most Locations for Stashing Diapers. What a prestigious award. I'd like to thank the academy... With one child I thought having diapers in one unmistakable place was the best way to go. With two children, I've changed my mind. We have diapers in: 1. master bedroom 2. Sophie's bedroom 3. Tucker's bedroom 4. downstairs family room 5. my car 6. the jogging stroller (only takes one ill-fated trip to the park to come up with that one) and 7. my purse. My Coach purse. My prized Coach purse that Bryan gave me as an anniversary gift (the year for 'leather') that now doubles as a diaper bag. Oh, motherhood. So humbling.

The second award I'd be a shoo-in for would be Persevering the Picky Eater. I wrote earlier about a dinner time meltdown and having to cover food with multi-colored sprinkles to get them in Sophie's belly. But serve a meal created with love, a dash of patience, some creativity and kindness and you might find as I did that they'll try just about anything. I also try to remember that everything is cyclical. Something she loved yesterday might disgust her tomorrow. Try again. And again. I actually read one time that you have to offer something 20-25 times before a child might agree to eat it. We've come to a new understanding that she has to try at least one bite before she gets the food she knows and wants.

Our latest creation was a hit. Fruit and Nut Bites, adapted from this recipe. I didn't invent this gem of a snack, but I made it bigger and better for Sophie.

Mom, take the picture so that I can devour
my special snack!

Fruit and Nut Bites.

Sophie's Fruit and Nut Bites
1 Cups dried organic figs
1/2 Cup dried dates
1/2 Cup walnut pieces
1/2 Cup whole raw almonds
2 Tablespoons ground flax seed
1/4 Cup water
1 Cup shredded coconut (we used sweetened)

Blend in food processor until everything comes together in an almost-smooth consistency. Form small balls - teaspoon or tablespoon size - and roll in coconut. Refrigerate and serve cold. They're a little gritty in consistency because of the figs (which is why I didn't hesitate to add the ground flax). And by gritty - think Fig Newton gritty, just the nature of the fruit.

The final award I think I have already won: Marrying Into the Best Family Possible. My in-laws and extended family have made me really happy to call our new town "home." They have been so supportive, helpful and generous. They have taken me in as their own and I couldn't be more grateful. Did you know that I am even getting one morning a week totally to myself to exercise? Brilliant. Sophie goes to school and my MIL watches Tucker. I know that my immediate family would love to be the ones sweeping up Sophie from preschool and giving Tucker his first bottle. But while we live 600 miles away, I rest assured they are happy knowing how well we are all cared for here in KY.

TGIFF

Thank Goodness It's Freaking Friday

This Friday the 13th has been peachy, thus far. (Yes, Mom, I'm about to start bragging again. May the force be with me for the rest of the day!)

Sophie is actually eating food - she's even asking for it.

Tucker is napping in his crib.

That's a win-win, folks.

We've had a mess of food battles lately. In fact, a serious toddler meltdown that ended with throw-up actually occurred on Tuesday. Yes, she pitched a fit over orange slices, cucumber and an almond butter and jelly sandwich. WTF? I can't help but take some of the blame looking back on the situation. 20/20, right? I gave her too many choices and offered to make Sophie her own meal - different from what I was going to eat. Tisk, tisk mommy.

At her two year appointment, the doctor said she wants to check her weight again in a few months since she hasn't gained anything since the fall. So now I'm obsessing over her food again since we kind of let things slide over the holidays.

We have some new winning recipes!

Spinach cake muffins (yes, cake, they are very dense). I didn't have sugar-free applesauce, so I made my own by steaming an apple and pureeing in the blender. Easy peasy.

Granola bars. My version included ground flax seed, dried organic black mission figs and chocolate chips.

Sophie's Favorite Chicken Nuggets
1 organic chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
1 egg, whisked
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon garlic salt

Dip chicken bites into the egg, then dredge through the panko and garlic salt mixture. Pan fry in oil (or bake, if you must, but this kid needs the extra fat right now). Sophie LOVES them. Like, she knows when I'm making them by the smell and runs around screaming "Chicken Nuggets!" For the nugget connoisseur, these are even better than Chic Fil A (which, for the record, she has never had).

Hope you have a lovely weekend ahead!

Reasons Tucker rocks

At seven weeks (where does the time go?), all the reasons Tucker James rocks my world:

Aced his first test with a 9 on his APGAR
Eats like a champ
Eats SO good in fact that mama is back in her pre-preggo pants already!
Smiling more and more
Almost never cries
Takes all the love and kisses his sister doles out
Eyes are starting to look blue
Approaching 11lbs
Mama can eat dairy and he doesn't protest

PS: Oh, and let's not forget to add that he only nursed twice last night, which probably has something to do with my chipper mood this morning.

PSS: And the fact that we are supposed to see the sun ALL day and see a temperature in the 60's.

PSSS: Or we can chalk up this mood to the girl's wine night with my awesome Sister in Law!

The photo I took for Tucker's birth announcement.

Hello, world!

Baby Birth Day

Well, we left off at 4am on baby's birth day with my big bottle of water and two granola bars. I tried to keep really busy before we were to report to Labor and Delivery. We took Sophie to school and came home to (finally) pack my hospital bag. 

Fast forward to 12:30pm and we were checking into the hospital. Insurance, bracelets, medical history, monitors, an IV and one last ultra sound. Oh, and a few spontaneous tears. Originally scheduled for a 2:30pm procedure, my physician was called into two emergency Cesareans and two other mothers were ready to push before my elective surgery took priority. So, now we're talking more than 12 hours with no food and not a drop of water. And, I was actually in labor.

Although the baby was breech and hiding up in my ribcage, I was banging out contractions every minute and a half. We called in the anesthesiologist to see if I had any pain management options. I could have gotten an epidural, but he said that it in no way would block the pain for surgery like the spinal would - and I had to wait until in the OR for the spinal.

Finally we were up. I thought I might vomit I was so nervous, anxious, excited, scared. The absolute worst part of the day was walking into that OR without my husband and dragging my little IV stand behind me. There were a lot of tears at this point, I won't pretend otherwise. I am a big baby.

"And curl over around your baby, hold my shoulders and we're going to stick a giant needle in your back." At least, this is how I remember it. In all seriousness, I had the best nurses caring for me, calming me and reassuring me. After the "bee sting" needle in my spine, I felt something drip all the way down my back and I became acutely aware of how cold it was in the OR.

Everything happened really fast after the spinal was done. I kept my eyes on my L&D nurse as they prepped me, put up the drape and called in my baby daddy. From the first incision to the last stitch closed, it was a total of 21 minutes and we had ourselves a little baby BOY! 

7lb 13oz, 20in, 4:49pm on November 16, 2011. He didn't have a name until we were in the recovery room and had a few minutes to process BOY. I could not have been more thrilled with our decision to wait on finding out the sex. I'll never ever forget watching Bryan and waiting for him to announce the sex as he watched Dr. Case deliver baby Barber. The name Tucker was on our short list of favorites and James is both our father's first names, so we introduced our immediate family to Tucker James Barber about an hour after he was born.

We were transferred to our Mother Child room where I swear it was 95 degrees (they keep it warm to give baby first bath) and it almost made me sick to be that hot. And the morphine was wearing off - let me tell you how that itches. I am getting itchy thinking about it, literally, just had to stop and scratch my arms! My hunger pangs were gone, I just wanted to snuggle on my sweet baby boy. I was already so smitten.

Here are a few pictures of Tucker's first few days.

My smile in no way reflects my real attitude at this point.
Apparently I have a really good "fake smile."
And, that big bump is the fetal monitor (as if I needed anything to make me look bigger!).

Proud Papa ready to meet baby.

And it's a BOY! Dr. Case - love her.

Blissful first mommy moment.

Daddy and Baby Tucker.

Sweet sleepy snuggles.

Getting to know you... getting to know all about you.

Sophie meeting "Baby Brudder Tucker."
She kisses him all on her own, we didn't even have to ask.

G-Daddy having a celebratory bourbon with his first grandson.

Bryan and his boy.

Grandpa and Tucker getting some vitamin D.

True love.