Thursday, March 31, 2011
retroactive 3/24/11- WALKING!!
Sweet baby boy got up the courage to finally walk several steps unassisted this morning. Here's the play-by-play: after breakfast and before getting dressed time Gavin had his lovey stuffed in his mouth (as is normal position for Lion lovey), was about 4 feet from the couch and took off VERY QUICKLY- crashing in to the couch. He was excited and Mommy was OVERLY excited! Lots of squeals and hugs and kisses ensued. :) It is amazing to see his little personality unfold before my eyes. I think he carefully thought out his plan for trying out this walking thing- smart boy! Speed forward to today: Thurs., 3/31/11- a week after his first steps he continues to toddle around the house and at daycare- walking several steps (more steps as each day goes by) and plopping on his butt when he gets off balance- OR safely to his destination (ie. couch, chair, entertainment center, etc.) So darn cute. I did get some walking from one of the first days on camera- yay! However, with independence---less dependence on Mommy...:( So many exciting things going on but certainly bittersweet to say goodbye to a baby who would sit or lay still wherever I placed him! Love my boy!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Sweetest thing EVER (so far)...
My sweeeet baby boy was giving me kisses (kisses are wide open mouth leaning towards me) and on the third kiss- grabbed my face with both hands for the kiss! :) This sweetness will make me smile for a LONG time! :) These are those moments that make every other whiney moment completely fade away.
I need to post an updated picture- handsome got another hair cut Saturday.
I need to post an updated picture- handsome got another hair cut Saturday.
Monday, February 21, 2011
gaining confidence...
This morning while enjoying some waffle together, Gavin amazed both of us with standing straight up (slowwwly) from squatting to standing...several times! I was overjoyed to see his own reaction to doing this. He was fully aware of trying something new; gaining confidence.
What a great start to the day!
What a great start to the day!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Made it through a year! :)
How is my baby now a one year old?! According to my updates from babycenter.com, he's now a "toddler." Nah...still a baby to me.
We celebrated Gavin's first birthday Sesame Street style. We had it at a clubhouse that we were lucky enough to have connections to reserve--however, even with it being covered on three sides- Mommy needs to realize that an outdoor party in early February (even in Florida) is probably not the best idea! It was cold, windy and damp- and..of course, Gavin ended up getting a cold (at least one other child did, too). So, next year- indoors.
It's amazing to reflect back on the past 52 (54 weeks now) weeks. I can remember when I referred to Gavin as X number of "weeks" old; then at some point it went to X number of months old. I am forever thankful that the first couple months of being a first time Mom are FOREVER OVER. There is no sugar-coating that while it was wonderful to look at my precious baby- the majority of my thoughts were on how dang tired and desperate I was; wondering if it would ever get better.
Life will not. ever. be the same (for like another decade or so--ahhh). But, life is richer every day having a family; being a Mom. Growing independence of my "toddler" is at times trying (God's grace with growing my patience is unbelievable) but also wonderful to experience. It's so nice that I can now sit Gavin down in the morning after our cuddles with a sippy of milk, some cheerios/toast/waffle in the living room and put on a baby einstein/veggie tales DVD and finish getting myself ready for work (Note: Dogs must be either outside or in another room with door closed or they WILL steal cheerios/toast/waffle).
Changing a diaper is an acrobatic feat for Gavin and a major obstacle course for Mommy or Daddy. Restraining my child on the changing table is an every day occurrence at this point. He's got SO to much else to do rather than lay down; but is instantly happy once that pee or poo diaper is changed and he's on his merry way.
NINE teeth and counting...a molar has arrived and brought the worst diaper rash thus far. Brushing teeth: another time of minor baby/toddler restraint. I let him "brush" his own teeth with a baby toothbrush for a minute or two, then get in there for a few real brushes...heaven forbid Mommy try to protect those gorgeous little teeth---enter a crying, writhing of the body moment- both in the morning and after bath at night. I've got to get smart share some of the tooth brushing fun with Daddy. Daddy's current status is WAY to fun/painless.
Combining words: yesterday Gavin said "dadda momma" in a row while we were all at the dinner table. He also said something that sounded like "amen" after our dinner prayer! On another note: spaghetti dinner ended up everywhere other than in Gavin's mouth/stomach (except for some bread). Our strategy for dinner: don't stress about it- he's a big breakfast and lunch eater- usually could care less about consuming much at dinner. Apparently this is "normal," babies/toddlers consume most of their calories before dinner time. He also gets a bottle of milk before bed (then rudely has his teeth wiped by Mommy to prevent bottle decay).
Gavin is taking his time with walking; as he has with other gross motor developments :) In observing my child thus far with this type of developmental milestone, with new toys and with new people/situations; he likes to observe first/take his time and then go for it. Smart boy! :) He's walking along everything he can; pulling Mommy's pants/shorts, etc. down as he pulls himself up on me and standing unassisted for short periods of time.
In closing, today is St. Valentine's Day. Any chance to acknowledge those I love is welcomed. It's also important for me to acknowledge the ONE who shows me how to love and loves more perfectly that I could ever be capable of- God.
Mommyhood continues....
We celebrated Gavin's first birthday Sesame Street style. We had it at a clubhouse that we were lucky enough to have connections to reserve--however, even with it being covered on three sides- Mommy needs to realize that an outdoor party in early February (even in Florida) is probably not the best idea! It was cold, windy and damp- and..of course, Gavin ended up getting a cold (at least one other child did, too). So, next year- indoors.
It's amazing to reflect back on the past 52 (54 weeks now) weeks. I can remember when I referred to Gavin as X number of "weeks" old; then at some point it went to X number of months old. I am forever thankful that the first couple months of being a first time Mom are FOREVER OVER. There is no sugar-coating that while it was wonderful to look at my precious baby- the majority of my thoughts were on how dang tired and desperate I was; wondering if it would ever get better.
Life will not. ever. be the same (for like another decade or so--ahhh). But, life is richer every day having a family; being a Mom. Growing independence of my "toddler" is at times trying (God's grace with growing my patience is unbelievable) but also wonderful to experience. It's so nice that I can now sit Gavin down in the morning after our cuddles with a sippy of milk, some cheerios/toast/waffle in the living room and put on a baby einstein/veggie tales DVD and finish getting myself ready for work (Note: Dogs must be either outside or in another room with door closed or they WILL steal cheerios/toast/waffle).
Changing a diaper is an acrobatic feat for Gavin and a major obstacle course for Mommy or Daddy. Restraining my child on the changing table is an every day occurrence at this point. He's got SO to much else to do rather than lay down; but is instantly happy once that pee or poo diaper is changed and he's on his merry way.
NINE teeth and counting...a molar has arrived and brought the worst diaper rash thus far. Brushing teeth: another time of minor baby/toddler restraint. I let him "brush" his own teeth with a baby toothbrush for a minute or two, then get in there for a few real brushes...heaven forbid Mommy try to protect those gorgeous little teeth---enter a crying, writhing of the body moment- both in the morning and after bath at night. I've got to get smart share some of the tooth brushing fun with Daddy. Daddy's current status is WAY to fun/painless.
Combining words: yesterday Gavin said "dadda momma" in a row while we were all at the dinner table. He also said something that sounded like "amen" after our dinner prayer! On another note: spaghetti dinner ended up everywhere other than in Gavin's mouth/stomach (except for some bread). Our strategy for dinner: don't stress about it- he's a big breakfast and lunch eater- usually could care less about consuming much at dinner. Apparently this is "normal," babies/toddlers consume most of their calories before dinner time. He also gets a bottle of milk before bed (then rudely has his teeth wiped by Mommy to prevent bottle decay).
Gavin is taking his time with walking; as he has with other gross motor developments :) In observing my child thus far with this type of developmental milestone, with new toys and with new people/situations; he likes to observe first/take his time and then go for it. Smart boy! :) He's walking along everything he can; pulling Mommy's pants/shorts, etc. down as he pulls himself up on me and standing unassisted for short periods of time.
In closing, today is St. Valentine's Day. Any chance to acknowledge those I love is welcomed. It's also important for me to acknowledge the ONE who shows me how to love and loves more perfectly that I could ever be capable of- God.
Mommyhood continues....
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Closing in on a year
Planning Gavin's 1st birthday has me thinking back on what has almost been 365 days of being a Mom in "my path in Mommyhood." Thankfully some memories are far enough away that they don't immediately evoke some anxiety, ie. the horrendous sleep deprivation of those first few weeks. You can just not compare it to anything--that much lack of sleep and learning how to be a Mom! Once again- nothing short of God's position in my life could have gotten me through that with (most of) my sanity. Hopefully in the FUTURE (not near future), the 2nd go-round will not be as traumatizing. :)
So, Gavin's recent developments:
1. I keep forgetting to say that he helps me put on his clothes; he's helped by putting his arms through arm holes for a month or so now. He recently will stick his foot out when I'm holding him to put shoes, socks or slippers on. :) So cute. Good thing there are ways to cover those fat yummy baby toes or I'd gnaw on them all the time!! :)
2. Dude has 8 teeth and LOVES to bite in to apples- yes, apples with them. This we have to watch closely because if he's eating anything thicker than stage 3 baby food, he's most likely chip-munking it in his cheeks. (For those unfamiliar with this made-up phrase: he stockpiles food in his cheeks for hours on end, if left alone). This also poses another hazard---check baby's mouth/cheeks before nap time!
**Note: Gavin stole an apple yesterday from Stephanie's son (daycare provider)! :)
3. Standing- buggy boy is standing unassisted for a few seconds at a time. Also transferring in standing position from one toy to the next or from one chair or from one part of the counter---anything he can balance himself on!
4. Dog bowls (food and water): Gavin's obsession. He run-crawls (very fast crawling) towards them if left in his eye sight. He's soaked himself and the surrounding floor a couple times now. Fun times with baby!
Ok, so there's so much more that is uber-interesting about my little guy but it's SO LATE---8:37pm----and I'm tired and recovering from a cold this sweet baby gave me this past weekend! :)
More exciting adventures to come. :)
So, Gavin's recent developments:
1. I keep forgetting to say that he helps me put on his clothes; he's helped by putting his arms through arm holes for a month or so now. He recently will stick his foot out when I'm holding him to put shoes, socks or slippers on. :) So cute. Good thing there are ways to cover those fat yummy baby toes or I'd gnaw on them all the time!! :)
2. Dude has 8 teeth and LOVES to bite in to apples- yes, apples with them. This we have to watch closely because if he's eating anything thicker than stage 3 baby food, he's most likely chip-munking it in his cheeks. (For those unfamiliar with this made-up phrase: he stockpiles food in his cheeks for hours on end, if left alone). This also poses another hazard---check baby's mouth/cheeks before nap time!
**Note: Gavin stole an apple yesterday from Stephanie's son (daycare provider)! :)
3. Standing- buggy boy is standing unassisted for a few seconds at a time. Also transferring in standing position from one toy to the next or from one chair or from one part of the counter---anything he can balance himself on!
4. Dog bowls (food and water): Gavin's obsession. He run-crawls (very fast crawling) towards them if left in his eye sight. He's soaked himself and the surrounding floor a couple times now. Fun times with baby!
Ok, so there's so much more that is uber-interesting about my little guy but it's SO LATE---8:37pm----and I'm tired and recovering from a cold this sweet baby gave me this past weekend! :)
More exciting adventures to come. :)
Saturday, December 25, 2010
yes, two posts in one day!
He loves the vacuum cleaner
such a good helper- thanks Uncle Matt for the closet organizer!
good oral hygiene!
On our way to Amber's wedding, 11/20/10
Blessings of Christmas
It's Christmas today! I haven't blogged (again) in several weeks. We have been very blessed this year and above all else- we are thankful for our Savior, Jesus Christ: His birth, His life here on Earth, His sacrifice and blood shed on the cross and God's faithfulness of his ascent to Heaven for our sins. Grace= unmerited mercy; I am so thankful for God's grace in my life- being a Mom bears (bares?) a whole new meaning for this grace.
Happenings in DePaola-ville:
Gavin met Santa and did not cry---see photo---he did have his fly- trap mouth pose on! haha. He also enjoyed the boxes and gift bags much more than the toys themselves at first today.
Gavin is crawling EVERYWHERE and...pulling UP on everything! He's stood unassisted three times (that I've seen) for a couple seconds before plopping on his hiney! He also has developed a bit of shy/coyness around people- he'll lay his head down on your chest and play shy for a few minutes until he warms up to the new person. So cute! TEETH- HE HAS 8 OF THEM! And yes, I'm still braving breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding: at almost 11 months, it is certainly winding down. Gavin can now take a whole bottle of formula. He nurses with me morning and night and takes two bottles of a mixture of b.milk and formula (during the work week); I'll nurse him throughout the day when we're together on the weekends. Certainly it is clear that nursing at this point is at least half for comfort. While I enjoy our special time together, I'm tiring of pumping during the day. I think we'll transition very shortly to no more pumping during the day so when Gavin is with me, he'll have bottles during the day and nurse morning and night as usual.
Illness: Gavin had a pretty bad cold towards the end of November. We ended up having to take him to the after hours' peds. clinic (around 7pm) because he was wheezing and had shallow, labored breathing. We were there until about 8:30pm, he was still in a pretty good mood through all of it! He was not happy when we nebulized him for the first time. I was singing as many songs as I could think of to try to keep him calm. He did 72 more hours of neb. treatments and was fine after that. Scarey to have a sick baby, though! We are praying he does not inherit Mommy's asthma.
I talked to Gavin today about his "Grammy," the name I gave my Mom for him. I often mention her in whispers during prayer while he is nursing at night so I can hide any choking up. :) Today I talked about her during his lunch and found myself really missing her and imagining just how wonderful she would be with him. I show her his pictures and tell him she is his guardian angel. It is bittersweet to try to figure out how best to talk to Gavin about her. Being a motherless mother sucks but having been blessed with the 20 years I had with her is priceless.
Gavin has so many people who love him! John's Mom- Mimi had us over (as a tradition) Christmas Eve for baking cookies and opening gifts with the cousins (and Aunts and Uncles). Gavin didn't do any cookie cutting but I'm sure he'll be up at the table next year. :) We got to see Popsy (John's Dad) today for dinner; it's also his birthday. We'll see Grandpa Larry and Grandma Robbie (my Dad and Stepmom) tomorrow. Gavin will meet his Uncle John for the first time in early January- lot's going on!
We're also anxiously awaiting the arrival of George- he continues to grow healthier and is now 38weeks gestation! Prayers for Aunt Tootie that he has smaller head and shoulders for as smooth a delivery as possible. :)
More pics to come soon!
Merry Christmas,
Lauren
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