Dino Lingo

WOW! So as some of you may know, I am very active on this awesome review website called Influenster! Basically it is a site where I go and write reviews on products I like or don't like, and if I am lucky they will send me products to try.

This time they introduced me to a "language learning program for kids" called Dino Lingo. It is a cartoon program that uses dinosaurs to teach children a variety of languages!!

They also have some samples on YouTube!!

I am contemplating purchasing a video for Cote for $22.95, but maybe I will get lucky and recieve a free DVD from Influenster! Fingers Crossed!!

Here is a sample video for you all to check out! I know you will love it!

Let me know what you think in the comments below!

:) Stay Connected

First Halloween

On October 20, 2012 Grandpa and Mommy took Cote bear to a fall festival in the neighborhood to het her very first pumpkins. We got three baby pumpkins for a dollar!! What a deal!! We also got to see Katie and Kathy Egan. It was their first time to meet Miss Cote!

Today (Halloween) has been rather uneventful. We just got dressed up, took pictures, and handed out candy!

Not much to blog about, but I wanted to mark the day!!

:) Stay Connected

What to Expect: Month Five

This month has been full of excitement, to me anyways. I feel like my little girl is just springing up! It seems like yesterday that I was holding her in my arms for the very first time, and I'm sure I will say that same thing for the rest of my life but still..

Something big this month that happened was that we started cereal. Due to Cote's persistent refusal of the bottle, we have begun giving her cereal which she eats mainly at daycare. She will eat it for them without much fuss, and it is not nearly the same kind of headache for her teachers. ;) The video of her first taste will be below!

Anyways...

By five months, your baby:

...should be able to:

hold head steady when upright [check]

on stomach, raise chest, supported by arms [check]

pay attention to an object as small as a raisin [check]

squeal in delight [check]

reach for an object [check]

smile spontaneously [check]

grasp a rattle held to back or tips of fingers [check]

keep head level with body when pulled to sitting [check]

...will probably be able to:

roll over (one way) [she can roll to the right]

bear some weight on legs [check]

say "ah-goo" or similar vowel consonant combinations [she can. but she seems to prefer loud squeals and growls]

razz (make a wet razzing sound) [check]

turn in the direction of a voice [check]

...may possibly be able to:
sit without support [we are working on this. she tends to lean into her feet if left for longer than a couple of seconds without support.]

...may even be able to:

pull up to standing position from sitting [not yet]

stand holding on to someone or something [she can, but I think this is meaning that she is standing on purpose rather than because I am making her, which she cannot do yet.]

object if you try to take a toy away [not yet]

work to get a toy out of reach [sometimes. but not far out of reach]

pass a cube or other object from one hand to the other [not yet]

look for dropped object [not yet]

rake with fingers a tiny object and pick it up in fist [not yet]

babble, combining vowels and consonants such as ga-ga-ga, ba-ba-ba, ma-ma-ma, da-da-da [she made a "ma" sound for the first time a couple of days ago. but she sticks mainly to sounds that start with vowels]

As you can see, her progress seems to have slowed a little from previous months. Her doctor had mentioned that her fine motor skills needed improvement, so that has been my focus this month. I put her in her play place a lot to work on reaching and grabbing. She lays on her play may to do the same as well as practice her rolling over. Recently I bought her an infant key board to also get her moving and grooving. And it all seems to be paying off. She really has started doing a lot more with her upper body.

It seems now that we need to work on sitting and speaking. Sometimes she will go most of the day without saying much of anything, and some days she will not be quiet. I think it is just a baby thing. Hopefully by next month she will be all caught up!!

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_PBwbOP0uRc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/AMdWlPIj2MM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

:) Stay Connected

Total Hip Perfection

So sorry that I have been slacking on my blogging everyone! I'm having a difficult time balancing school and baby and everything else!! Anyways...

This week, Tuesday to be exact, was Cote's "last" hip check-up! And all went well!! Her doctor said everything looks great!! And we shouldn't have anything to worry about!

While we were there the Doctors asked me if I would allow them to include Cote in a study they are performing on 5,000 girls born breech! They are trying to track the problems that they are finding in these girls as they grow to try to diagnose when and where the problems arise, if they do. A greed to allow her participation, so every year I will be taking Cote back to have her hips checked.

The benefit of this is that if down the road she shows signs of hip problems the doctors will catch it before it effects her... At least that's the plan!

:) Stay Connected

Four Month Well Visit

I apologize for my delay in posting this, but we have just been rather busy lately.

Last Friday Cote had her four month well visit, and all went well. We had to get there early because I did not have a copy of the questionnaire, and it has to be completed before the appointment. It is simply a way for the doctor to assess Cote's abilities and such.

This time we did not have to wait long! They got us back to our room to get Cote weighed and measured!! She was 16lbs and 25 inches long!! She has grown so much!! She is now in the 73% in height, jumping from the 40s. And her weight and head circumference are somewhere in the 80th %! Little Miss is catching up fast!

While we waited for the Doc to come in we had out usual photo shoot! (See Below!)

The Doctor was very impressed with how much Cote has grown and how well she is doing, but she said that we need to work on her fine motor skills according to my answers on that durn questionnaire. But that's okay! Now we know where she needs to improve, and we can work on those things before she falls behind. ;)

The shots were the last thing on the to-do list. She had the one orally and the three in her legs. Poor thing! She did great through the oral, but after that first shot went in her leg she broke into hysterics! But the nurse was quick, so I got to scoop her up and nurse away the pain!! Missy only cried for maybe a minute.

And she did pretty good the rest of the day and the days that followed. She was a little grumpy and feverish, but she took it like a champ!

Then Saturday night she stayed with Ya Ya from 8-3 while Mommy went to the Pistol Annies concert (which was awesome btw!) And on Sunday, Cote had her first bowl of cereal!!!!!!!!! Now she can eat that at daycare, and her poor teachers wont have to battle her with the bottle!! YAY!!

Till next time...



:) Stay Connected

What To Expect: Month Four

Well the day has come and gone, and my Cote bear is officially another month older! It is hard for me to believe, especially because this month is has been so full of milestones and growth!! She is just growing up so fast! I want to freeze her in time or at least slow down time. I feel like I'm missing out. And since she is in daycare, I am struggling even more with her growing up... Her big milestone recently was rolling over, and she has only done it at daycare so far. :(

But oh well... onto the list::

By four month, your baby...

... should be able to:

On stomach, lift head 90 degrees [can definitely do]

Laugh out loud [can do, but doesn't do it often]

Follow an object in an arc about 6 inches above the face for 180 degrees (from one side to the other) [can do]

...will probably be able to:

Hold head steady when upright [can definitely do]

On stomach, raise chest, supported by arms [can do, but doesn't like to]

Grasp a rattle held to backs or tips of fingers [can do]

Pay attention to an object as small as a raisin (but keep such objects out of baby's reach) [can do]

Reach for an object [does sometimes when playing]

Squeal in delight [can do, and its a beautiful sound]

...may possible be able to:

Keep head level with body when pulled to sitting [can do]

Roll over (one way) [has done three times at daycare]

Turn in the direction of a voice, particularly mommy's [can definitely do]

Say "ah-goo" or similar vowel consonant combinations [OH YA!]

Razz (make a wet razzing sound) [figure out how to do this today]

...may even be able to:

Bear some weight on legs when held upright [can definitely do]

Sit without support [can do in short spurts]

Object if you try to take a toy away [confession: mommy doesn't take away many toys]

Turn in the direction of a voice [can do]

It is interesting to look at this list of expectations and how many things that Cote can do because at her appointment they said she may be slightly delayed in her fine motor skills. (More on that to come in the well visit post.)

At the end of the day, I think my baby girl is perfect! And that's what counts!!... To me...

:) Stay Connected

Description of Progress

Today when I arrived to pick up Cote I was surprised with a lovely gift from the daycare center!! Her teachers had been taking pictures of her and put them together in a frame for me!! It was such a lovely surprise! Especially on her 4 month birthday today!!!!!!

Here she is being held by Mrs. Vicky

The caption for this picture is:

"I learned to sit in the excersaucer and to hold my head up so I can see around the room.

This is a large muscle skill."

This Picture is my Favorite!

The caption for this picture is:

"I learned that my friends will crawl over to me and play with me - it makes me happy to see the other childrem in to room - this is social/emotional development."

:) Stay Connected

Last Week or So...

Last weekend was Cote's second trip down to the ranch in Brownwood, and it was a doozy!! Due to traffic, the drive down there took five hours when it should have taken three. This did not please by sugar, so she cried for about two of those five hours. (And by cry I mean scream at the top of her voice.)

When we finally arrived at the ranch, it was around ten on Friday night. Cote was still pretty grouchy. So much so in fact that every time she saw Papa Ray's face she cried! Poor thing was rather distraught. I felt terrible for Papa, but he was understanding.

Saturday was a little bit better. We did not do much because I had a lot of homework, but we did go to town for our meals. Each time we were at a restaurant Cote sure perked up. Acting like a little ham, Cote gabbed away the whole time, making all kinds of noises. Everyone seemed to love it!! She also made progress with Papa. On that day she let him pick her up, but he could not walk out of range of Mommy or risk upsetting her!!

However Miss Cote got on quite well with Uncle Chase! Every time she saw him she smiled a big 'ol gummy smile!! The two of them would talk and giggle!! In the car, Cote would not take her eyes of him!! I'd say she was rather smitten by Uncle Chasey!! It was amazing, and I think it made Chase feel pretty special which is great!!

Sunday morning we went to town for breakfast before heading back home. Before we left we took some pictures together! When Dad joined me, Cote and Chase for a picture, Cote squealed with excitement when she saw him!! It was priceless! And she let Papa hold her and love on her without any fussing!! They made great progress, and the trip ended happily!!

This week was also pretty full of excitement!! Grandpa left for the week for work, so it was just Cote and Mommy all week. She still fights the bottle, but Cote hit a milestone a daycare this week!!

Monday night she was trying really hard to roll over, and at day care on Tuesday she did it!! TWICE!! Her teachers said she tried so hard to get to her belly, but once she made it she completely panicked!! They said that was odd because usually a baby rolls over because they want to be on their tummy. Oh well!

So i had hoped that she would roll over again at home, but that did not happen. She did at daycare though on Thursday. Then, when we were at Ya-Ya's house on Thursday afternoon, I was trying to get her to roll over by singing the "roll over" song. (You know.. there were ten in the bed, and the little one said roll over. roll over. so they all rolled over, and one fell out. there were nine in the bed...) But instead of rolling over she started to sing along! Truly! By the time I got to five she was singing roll over (without her lips or tongue.) It was the most amazing thing!!

When we finally made it home, she conked out!! Little Miss Marie slept from 5:30 pm to 8:30 am, waking only to eat. And we have been taking it easy ever since!!

:) Stay Connected

First Week of Daycare

I am sorry I have taken so long to post this, but I have been rather busy with homework and such. (I shall explain the "such" later...) 

Anyways... Monday was Labor Day, so Cote did not begin daycare until Tuesday. And as previously mentioned I switched her day care at the last minute, so we did not get to have a practice day before beginning. I was terribly nervous, but I have to go to school to ensure both of our futures. 

To start the morning, we were running behind because I had not prepared well. We had to stop at Kroger and get diapers, wipes, and a money order. When we finally got there, they had a cute little sign on the door welcoming us!

 

We went in and visited with the teachers. I gave them everything I had brought, but I was not ready to hand over my baby... I snuggled with her a little and eventually handed her over. As soon as the door closed behind me, I started sobbing!! It killed me to be leaving her, especially with strangers!

I called Mom and Dad on the drive to school to try to soothe myself. As soon as I got to my classroom, I began the process of signing up to be able to watch the video feed from her class. An hour later I had access which made the day a little easier. I called between classes, and they said she was doing good. She had a feeding and was napping... Whew! 

I hardly payed attention in my second class because I was watching her on my iPad! Then on my phone on the way to get her!! I was SO happy when I got to pick her up, and she seemed happy to see me too! We went home where I fed her, and she slept for hours!

before we left on Wed. mommy forgot to take a pic the first day :(

Wednesday was a little easier for me, but harder for Cote! She cried when I left her which absolutely broke my heart, but watching her all day made the time pass quicker.

When I picked her up, the teacher asked how I can deal with her screaming!? I was very confused, but apparently my precious angel was rather upset all day. I felt awful for my sugar, but I later found out that they only gave her one bottle. (umm perhaps she was crying because she was hungry..?)

Thursday was much better for everyone! I spoke with the lead teacher about the bottle situation from the day before, and she was rather displeased as well! Good thing! And Cote smiled when she saw the woman. (I should probably learn her name..) All parties were smiles, so it wasn't as hard for me to leave.

However, Cote had an off day. Our usual routine begins by waking up around 8:30 or 9 and her going back to sleep at around 10:30 for a quick nap. Then its off to day care with naps between the hour of one and four. But on Thursday she slept most of the morning, so the didn't sleep but 30 minutes at daycare. Poor girl!!

When I picked her up, the lead teacher was trying to sing her to sleep with a bottle too. Both looked completely exhausted!! As I took Cote off her hands, the teacher and I had a good chat about my fears of daycare and how pleased I was with how the week had gone. She is such a sweet woman! I am very happy with my choice to switch to The Children's Courtyard!!

Anywho, I hope next week continues to improve! Maybe she will even latch on a bottle!! Fingers Crossed!!

Till then...

:) Stay Connected

Nursery Room

Today we finished hanging all of the decorations in Miss Cote's new bedroom, so here is the video tour I promised!! Hope you like it!!



:) Stay Connected

P.S. Don't forget to check out the other videos of Cote on my YouTube channel!! because I do not post them all here.

Quick Life Update

Last weekend Cote and I moved into the new house with my Dad (ie. Grandpa) which was exciting because Cote got her own room!! It is absolutely adorable!! I will be doing a video tour as soon as I get all of the wall decorations hung up.

She doesn't sleep in her room yet. I have put her down for a couple of naps in her crib, but I am not ready to stop co-sleeping. I feel it is the best arrangement for us right now.

Also, Monday I started back to school, so Cote stayed with her Ya Ya during the day. They worked on the bottle thing, but Mom said that she still shows no interest. This is something I need to keep working on with her because she starts going to day care on Tuesday!!!

I am so nervous to send her to daycare. We did a practice day at the Xplor daycare, and I was rather disappointed. It was not at all the same set-up that I had been sold on originally, so I have decided to send her to my first choice which was The Children's Courtyard. We got her all signed up today, and I am much more confident in this decision. Hopefully she will agree!

Anyway... that is just a brief blurb. Sorry I have not been posting much, but there has been so much going on!! Keep your eyes peeled for the "August 2012" album on Shutterfly! And if you haven't seen it yet, I created a Facebook for Cote Marie! I think it will be a great way to funnel all of the information into a central location!! It is linked in the tab above! Be sure to "Like" it to stay informed!!

Love y'all!!

:) Stay Connected

What to Expect: Month Three

Wow! Today my baby girl is three months old, and everything about our lives has changed. This weekend we moved to the new house, and today I started back to school which means a lot of time away from my baby girl. :( I am not excited about it (especially since she still refuses the bottle), but it is all going to be worth it in our future..

Enough about me.. On to Miss Cote Marie::

By three months your baby...

...should be able to:

On stomach, lift head 45 degrees [check]

...will probably be able to:

Laugh out loud [only twice on purpose. but laughs a lot while falling asleep]

On stomach, lift head up 90 degrees [check]

Squeal in delight [sometimes]

Being both heads together [check]

Smile spontaneously [check]

Follow an object held about 6 inches above baby's face and moved 180 degrees–from one side to the other, with baby watching all the way [check]

...may possibly be able to:

Hold head steady when upright [check]

On stomach, raise chest, supported by arms [not so much... mommy needs to encourage more tummy time to practice this]

Roll over (one way) [sometimes]

Grasp a rattle held to backs or tips of fingers [I don't know about a rattle, but she holds onto her "Ziggy"]

Pay attention to an object as small as a raisin [check]

...may even be able to:

Bear some weight on legs when held upright [most definitely]

Reach for an object [not yet]

Keep head level with body when pulled to sitting [sometimes]

Turn in the direction of a voice, particularly mommy's [check]

Say "ah-goo" or similar vowel. consonant combination [check]

Razz (make a wet razzing sound) [I have NO idea what this is :/]

So it looks like she is progressing wonderfully. I looked back at her two month entry, and it seems she has improved in some area. There are still things she doesn't have much interest in such as the rattle or reaching for things, but I wonder if that is my fault. I do not really expose her to many opportunities to try such things.

Therefore, the mommy to-do list is work on more tummy time and expose her to more toys.

:) Stay Connected

SEA LIFE Aquarium

On Thursday, Cote and I went to the SEA LIFE Aquarium in Grapevine Mills Mall with Alberto for his birthday. I wore her in the Moby Wrap because I figured it would be easier, and she would be able to see things better than in her stroller.

I must admit... I was weary of this place because it was in a mall, and when we first walked in there were just tanks of small fish. As we got deeper in the zig-zag of aquarium, there were some pretty cool tanks! There was a round tank that was open at the top containing different breeds of sting ray. There was a ledge where you could walk up to look in or crawl under. Neat!

Next was an octopus cave... And an aquarium you could crawl under and look up through... And the best part... A 360 SHARK TUNNEL!!!

It was crazy business!! There were some pretty neat exhibits at this place! I highly recommend checking it out!! It's $20 a person which is a little pricey for the experience, but I enjoyed it! They also offer some games for kids and a chance to touch some starfish!! Fun fun!

The trip wore Miss Cote out because she fell asleep in her Moby when we were walking back to the car... Poor thing...

*****insert pic

We drove out to Brownwood afterwards. I'll tell that story next!!

:) Stay Connected

Hip Perfection

Today was Cote's follow-up appointment for her hip examination at Scottish Rite!

When we got there, things happened really fast. We checked in, and before we could sit down Cote was called back to get weighed and measured. The nurse said she weighs 6.1 kg and 24 inches. I think the length measurement has got to be off becuase she was 22 inches at her two month, but oh well...

As we got back to the waiting room, it was off to the sonogram area for us. Cote was so good for the technician that they even let a trainee practice on her. They could not give me much information about what they saw, but they implied all was well.

Then we went to see the doctor...

waiting...

waiting...

waiting...

PERFECTION!

The nurse practioner came in, and after a quick examination issued a clean bill of health! Then the doctor came in (also training) to tell us the same thing! They want us to come in again in a month to double check, but he expects her to continue to grow and develop perfectly!!

YAY!! and thank you for all  your prayers!!

:) Stay Connected

First Mathers Family Reunion

The first Saturday in August every year is the Mathers' Family Reunion. And I am sad to say that I have not made it as often as I should, but this year Cote and I attended. It was her very first reunion.

The original plan was to fly out to Roswell with Mom, Rob and Chase on Thursday, but at the last minute I decided to drive to Tatum with Wade and Sydnee on Tuesday night. We left at around 9:30 pm and arrived at the ranch at around 4:30am. It was definitely the best way to travel with Cote. She slept almost the whole way!

On Wednesday all of us girls plus Morgan just lounged around the house. We drove to town for a little bit, but basically we all just hung out at Caprock. Then we left bright and early on Thursday to drive to Ruidossa. Cote and I rode with Mimi and Dolly. It was another relaxed day! Mimi bought Sydnee and I a massage for our 21st birthday!! It was magnificent!! Then Mom, Rob and Chase got in, and The Conley's drove us also. It was the first time in forever that every member of the family was together. We cooked dinner at the cabin and spent some great quality time together.

Friday was golf day! All of the adults played golf while Cote and I hung out with the grand kids. That evening was the seafood buffet at the country club!! It was another great dinner spent as a family!! Afterwards we went to Tyna and Gale's cabin to meet up with the rest of the family. We spent a little time there, letting Cote be introduced to everyone. She was quite the bell of the ball!! Everyone loved her!! (Of Course!) Then we went home to put Cote to bed. Mimi watched her while me, Mom, Rob, Joey, Rusty, and Sydnee went to the casino. We had a blast, but it was the first time I had been away from Cote for longer than an hour. We had a couple drinks and played video poker and were home about three and a half hours later.

Then Saturday was the real family reunion. We all met at the community center, hung out, ate, and played cards. After the lunch we had the family picture and meeting. Then all of us "Hilburns" went to race go-carts! I don't know who won, but I know it wasn't me. Haha. We spent the rest of the night just spending time together. Cote and I retired early because we had to be up bright and early to catch a ride home with Wade.

Sunday morning we left at around 7:30am our time and got home about 4:30pm. It was a pretty quick ride with some interesting experiences along the way. The most entertaining was when Cote had her morning poo explosion! Poor thing had leaks coming out all sides. I had to change both her clothes and her diaper while she laid in my lap. It was exciting to say the least!!

Anyways... Cote was quite a champ through the whole thing. She spent half of her time being manhandled and the the other half being strapped in a car seat. My little angel was a trooper!!

I am so grateful I got to share her with the ones I love, and I look forward to continuing to share her life and growth!!

:) Stay Connected

P.S. The pics are posted in the "Family Reunion 2012" folder on Shutterfly. Simply click the tab above to see them all!!

Baby Tag!

Lately I have been watching a ridiculous amount of YouTube videos, and I have decided that I want to join in on the fun!!!

1. baby's height and weight at birth? at two months?
2. how many newborn diapers did you use? 1 month? brand?
3. how long in newborn clothes? 0-3 months?
4. what size diaper bag would you recommend? brand?
5. did you use your swing?
6. would you recommend buying a play mat?
7. would you recommend buying a bouncy seat?
8. would you recommend buying a bassinet and pack & play?
9. did your child use soothies? brand?
10. one must have item?
11. item you would not have bought?
12. advice for breastfeeding/bottle feeding?
13. what is your bedtime routine?
14. partner's hair and eye color? baby's?
15. any last advice?

:) Stay Connected

What to Expect: Month Two

Hard to believe, but here we are at month TWO!! It is absolutely amazing at this month's developments. This little girl amazes me with something new every day which I am sure will only continue as she continues to grow.

But here is her "What To Expect" abilities and such for month two:

By month two, your baby...

...should be able to:

smile in response to your smile [sometimes]

respond to a bell in some way, such as startling, quieting, crying [check]

...will probably be able to:

vocalize in ways other than crying (e.g. cooing) [check]

on stomach, lift head 45 degrees [check]

...may even be able to:

hold head steady when upright [pretty much]

on stomach, raise chest, supported by arms [check]

roll over (one way) [check]

grasp a rattle held to back or tips of fingers [not yet]

pay attention to an abject as small as a raisin [check]

reach for an object [not yet]

say "Ah-goo" or similar vowel-consonant combinations [check]

...may possibly be able to:

smile spontaneously [check]

bring both hands together [check]

on stomach, lift head 90 degrees [check]

laugh out loud [sometimes in her sleep]

squeal in delight [sometimes]

follow an object held about 6 inches above the baby's face and moved 180 degrees (from one side to the other), with baby watching all the way [check]

Pretty impressive right!?! My baby has super powers! ;) But her growth has also enhanced her attitude. Miss Cote now has decided the she absolutely positively will not take a bottle or pacifier, so that is the current challenge at hand. We have to get this bottle situation figured out before day care begins. Fingers Crossed!!

Her personal task this month has been trying to find her thumb! She sucks on her knuckles and her arm, but she has only managed to find the thumb once since we left the hospital. Maybe she will figure it out... ;)

:) Stay Connected

Two Month Well Visit

Yesterday was Cote's two month well visit appointment. I was not looking forward to it because I knew what was in store, but we had to go anyways. :(

Cote weighed in at 12 lbs 1 oz which put her in the 73%. She is 22 1/4 inches tall which puts her in the 45%, and her head measured at 15 1/4 inches putting her in the 73% as well.

After all of her measurements were taken, Cote and I had to wait almost an hour to see the Doctor.

When the Doctor finally came in, it was not even her doctor. Apparently she was out, so another doc had to fill in. He said that my baby girl is perfect!! There is nothing at all wrong with her, and he thinks her hips are looking great!! Everything about her is amazingly superb!! :)

Cote is in perfect health, but she still had to get her vaccines. One was orally, and the other three were in her legs. Luckily the nurse was very efficient and quick, but it still hurt. :( And because the nurse did not know if Cote was a boy or girl before she came in, Little Miss got band aids with super heroes...

My baby was so upset after her shots, but nursing seemed to be the perfect cure. :) She ate and passed out. She slept the whole way home and seemed to be okay for awhile when we got home. We played a little and she slept a lot. But when I tried to put her down all hell broke loose. She cried and screamed for at least an hour. Grandpa went to get her "Little Fevers" which helped eventually. Then she just cried whenever I moved. Slowly but surely I was able to get her into bed.

It broke my heart to see her so upset. I wish I could have taken her pain away. The medicine helps her, but twice in twenty-four hours she has thrown up after I gave her the medicine.

She seems to be feeling better today. I am making sure she is getting a lot of TLC and rest.

Hopefully all will be better by the time for the family reunion.

:) Stay Connected

Trip to the Dallas Aquarium

On Saturday we decided to go to the Dallas Aquarium with Cote. It sounded like such a great idea to get out of the house. But when we got there we were instantly proven wrong. There was a line that wrapped around the aquarium, and it was hot as hell outside.

We waited in line for about an hour. Cote was such a trooper. She was just chilling in her car seat/stroller. I tried to fan her to keep her cool, but the weather did not seem to be phasing her.

When we finally got inside I took her out of her stroller to try to get some pictures with her.

Because it was so warm and crowded inside, I decided to put her back in her stroller. We were moving so slowly, and I did not want her to get too hot with me. When we got to the restaurant we decided to all take a break. Maybe this was the crowd would clear a little, and I could feed Cote.

Everything seemed to be going smoothly until she began to choke. Poor baby spit up everything she had eaten and was very upset. She cried and cried and cried. The crying turned to screaming, and nothing seemed to be soothing her. I tried changed her, tried nursing again, and nothing. Finally I just tucked into a corner and bounced her steadily until she passed out. My little girl was exhausted!!

She pretty much slept through the rest of the aquarium tour, not that I blame her. Her tour was restful! ;)

When we finally got home, she played with mommy for a little bit, and then she passed smooth out! And pretty much slept the rest of the night (with the exception of feedings).

:) Stay Connected



The End of the Search

Step 4 Continued:

On Monday I visited the daycare that I had previously mentioned. And I was quite impressed! They offer a great plan that is personalized to each child. The teach signing and eventually Spanish. She would be able to attend the center till she turned 12. It is a great facility with friendly instructors. The only thing it lacks is the in-class cameras.

Step 5: Decide

So I narrowed my choices down to Xplor and The Children's Courtyard. Though I would prefer to send her to the Courtyard, I am going to have to choose Xplor because of its convenient location.

Now all that is left is to file the paperwork to reserve her spot!!

:) Stay Connected

The Search Continues

Step 4: Ask & Eliminate

Over the last couple of days I have been visiting day cared, and may I just say that this step can be quite exhausting. On Thursday before Cote's appointment we went to visit Childtime Learning Center. Because this was the first day care that I had ever visited I was not sure what to expect, but I knew when I walked in that I was not impressed. The facility and program were not bad, but the Assistant Director was the driving force behind my decision to to RUN out of the center.

This lady was in NO way making me comfortable about leaving my child with her. After she explained each rule she basically told me that they do not enfore it. For example, I asked her about the security of the facility. She told me that each person has their own code to get in and out to pick up or drop off a child. She said that coded are not to be shared but then proceeded to tell me that if someone has a code they can pick up your kid. Ummm... so any random Joe with the right series of numbers can take me baby?? Oh Hells No!! NEXT!!!

The Children's Courtyard was next on my list. I surprised them on Friday after a miscommunciation in scheduling, but they were not even phased. This facility was emaculate! It is the training facility for all other Children's Courtyards in the area. It even allows TWU and UNT to do observation courses in their facility. The teachers are "master" teachers ie. older women who live to care for babies. There was not one bad side to this place!! It was only $178 a week, and they even offer the online nanny cams for the parents!! Oh, and the teach sign language! I was beyond impressed with this place! It quickly became number one on my short list...

After that I went to Children's Lighthouse. I had really high expectations for this place because their website was a good sell. Too bad that was the only good quality. I was appaled with this place. To start, as I walked in for my appointment, the Assistant Director (who was to give me my tour) was walking out to go to Starbucks... Really!?.. Then I went to the infant room. It was pretty disgusting and had glued carpet (which Ive been infromed can never be truly cleaned.) There were all young girls working there which wouldnt have been bad if they didnt have their cell phones in their pockets. One of the girls was actually texting while I was in there!! No Lie! And they kept infacizing that half of the room was walking, but when I looked on that half every single child was awake in a play pen or crib. WTH!? Now you may be wondering what the price for such quality may be... $230!! HA!!

So.. since that day care was an epic fail I decided to just drive around and see what I see...

Back in Carrolton, I found a center called Xplor. I did not go in because I was not feeling well, but I plan to go back and visit it this week. It is in a great location in accordance to Mom's house and Dad's soon-to-be house, and I have heard only good things about it!

After I visit Xplor I will have to make my decision. At the moment I think it is between The Children's Courtyard and Xplor. I need to make a choice this week so that I can reserve a spot for my girl!!

To Be Continued... (again)...

:) Stay Connected

Hip Update

After Cote's sonogram of her hips the doctor's office called on Monday to inform me that the screening yielded results that needed to be observed further, so I was set up to make an appointment at Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. The nurse did not give me much information except that the hospital would be calling to set an appointment.

About 20 minutes later the hospital called and set the appointment for Thursday at 2:00 PM. This nurse also did not give me any information about what was going on with Cote's hips. All she did was make the arrangements and inform me that I would be receiving a packet in the mail.

...... I needed some information about what was going on with my baby girl!! So, me being a concerned mother, I researched for three days to try to understand what could possibly be going on with Cote. The hospital website was my best source because it narrowed my options to basically hip displasia. This apparently means that the hip socket is not formed correctly, and it is most common in first-born, Caucasian daughter. Perfect. Cote fulfills that criteria.

The treatments for hip displasia range from braces to surgery and everything in between. Everything simply depends on the severity of the case.

At the appointment on Thursday, the doctor began by examining Cote's hips by simply moving them around gently. She told me that she was listening for any popping and feeling if the hips came out of socket. Because she was unable to feel or hear any problems the doctor ordered another sonogram.

This sonogram went much more smoothly. The nurse performing it had a totally different approach which was much more effective. She allowed Cote to lay on her back instead of her side, and she only restrained her as necessary allowing Cote to rest between images. The room was also very dimply lit with a TV attached to the bed playing Clifford the Big Red Dog.

When the sonogram was over we went back to see the doctor. This time there was a male doctor who joined us. He examined Cote as well. Apparently the new sonogram showed a vast improvement in both of Cote's hip sockets, but her left hip still needs to be watched. The ball of her hip is not sitting well in the socket. The doctor said it could be something that will fix itself, but if not, now is the time to catch the problem.

Her next appointment is after the family reunion. At that time the doctor will decide if a brace is necessary. If so, we will defiantly be continuing treatment. The alternative down the road is a body cast which would be no fun for anyone involved.

My Cote-Bear was such a trooper through her entire appointment. The doctor's were very impressed! It was pretty amazing. At one point the nurse tried to give her a pacifier with sugar water on it (since she wont usually take it) in an effort to centralize Cote's energy. (She was being quiet but very fidgety.) The nurse quickly found out how smart my baby is! Cote would not open her mouth to take the pacifier, but she licked off all of that sugar water! It was quite entertaining!!

Now I ask that you please pray the Little Missy's hips shape up in the next couple weeks so she doesn't have to endure the hastle of wearing a brace... Please and Thank You!!

:) Stay Connected

My Search for a Day Care (Part One)

I return to school on August 27, and I will need to find a place for Miss Cote to stay. I'm looking for day cares, so I have decided to share my search. :)

Step 1: Location, Location, Location!

Deciding on the city I want her to be in is proving to be quite a challenge. Do I place her in a day care near where we live? If I do that she will not have to ride very far, and if there is ever an emergency Mom and Dad will be near by. OR Do I place her in a day care near school? If I do that then she will have to endure a car ride every day, but she would also be near me and wouldn't have to stay as long.

Right now I am considering all places along my travel route. Denton... Corinth... Lewisville...

Step 2: The Age Dilemma

As I search day cares I am finding that not all of them take babies. Actually many of them do not. So, my next step has been to find the few centers in each city that offer infant care.

Denton:

Exclusively Babies

Corinth:

Children's Lighthouse

Alpha Academy at Oakmont

Lewisville:

The Children's Courtyard

Childtime Learning Center

Step 3: Schedule Visitations & Tours

I have been going through the process of scheduling meet and greets with three of the above five. I have eliminated the Denton center due to sketchiness and the Alpha Academy due to prices. Tomorrow I am visiting the Lewisville locations and the Corinth location on Friday.

Step 4: Ask & Eliminate

My next step will be to ask all the questions I can think of and compare the three. If the results are good and the price is right, the decision should be easy. (I hope!)

Suggested Daycare checklist:


Availability
Questions to ask:
o What ages are accepted?
o What time can I drop my child off?
o What is the latest time that I can pick up my child?
o What holidays are you closed?
o Do you have space available for my child?
o Can I choose from a full-time or part-time schedule?
o If my child attends daycare part-time, do I need a set schedule?
o Can I visit the facility without an appointment?
o Do you have a list of references that I can call?
What to look for:
o Does someone answer phone calls promptly?
o Is a director conveniently available to answer questions?

Staff training and facility licensing
Questions to ask:
o Are you licensed and accredited?
o How long has your facility been providing daycare?
o What is the caregiver to child ratio?
o Does your staff have training in early childhood development?
o Are teachers trained in first aid and CPR?
o What is your staff turnover?
o Are background checks completed on staff members?
What to look for:
o Is there a certification license posted?
o Are there any state violations posted?

Daily activities and schedules
Questions to ask:
o Are nap times provided? What time and where?
o What activities will be available for my child?
o Will my child go on field trips outside the facility?
o Is there an education curriculum?
o How much time do they watch television during the day?
o Do you offer transportation? If so, from what schools or locations?
What to look for:
o What activities are children doing?

Meals
Questions to ask:
o Are meals provided by the daycare?
o Are snacks provided by the daycare?
o Are they nutritious meals and snacks?
o Do they allow for special needs diets?
o Are parents given a monthly menu?
o Do you have adequate storage for breast milk?
What to look for:
o Are the kitchen and eating areas clean?
o Is breast milk labeled?
o Are food allergies noted for teachers?

Care
Questions to ask:
o How are they disciplined?
o How do you handle toilet training?
What to look for:
o Are the children given lots of love and encouragement?
o How does staff interact with children?

Environment
Questions to ask:
o Do you have an outdoor playground?
o Are there personal cribs for each infant?
o Are there separate rooms for each age group?
o Is the staff allowed to smoke on facility premises?
o Are animals allowed on premise? (at-home day cares only)
o Are there provisions for children with special needs?
What to look for:
o What toys and activities are available?
o Does the center look well-kept?

Illness
Questions to ask:
o What is your sick policy?
o What do you do if my child becomes sick at daycare?
o What is your policy for handling falls or incidents?
o Are immunizations required?
o Do you dispense medication only with a parent or doctor’s signature?

Safety
Questions to ask:
o Is there a safety plan in place in case of an emergency?
o Are there restrictions on who may pick up my child?
o Are these restrictions confirmed?
o Are parents called when a child does not show up at the appropriate time?
o Does the playground equipment meet safety standards?
o Are hazardous materials kept out of reach of children?
o Is there a first aid kit?
o Do they have smoke detectors?
o Are fire exits marked and caregivers knowledgeable in a fire safety plan?
What to look for:
o Are safety gates working?
o Does the playground equipment look safe?
o Where are smoke detectors?
o Where are hazardous materials?
o Are fire exits marked?
o Are heating vents and radiators covered or inaccessible to children?

Sanitation
Questions to ask:
o How often are toys washed? What do you use to clean them?
o Do caregivers use gloves when handling food and when changing diapers?
o Are children taught to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet?
What to look for:
o Does the facility look clean and composed during an unexpected visit?
o Are toys and furniture in good condition and up-to-date?
o Are caregivers using gloves?
o Is soap and paper towels provided in each restroom?

Registration and fees
Questions to ask:
o How do I register my child?
o I am pregnant. How do I reserve a space for my infant?
o What are your daycare fees for full-time? Part-time?
o Do you accept any kind of financial aid?
o Is there a reduction in fees if my child takes vacation?
o Is there a sibling discount?
o What is the fee for picking up my child late?

Step 5: Decide!

I will be back on Friday for steps four and five!!

:) Stay Connected

Product Review: Desitin Rapid Relief Diaper Rash Cream

Recently I noticed that Cote had a slight diaper rash with what looked like a blister. It was a deep red spot between her cheeks, and it had me concerned. I was using the both of the Aveeno Diaper Rash Creams to try to get rid of it.

The Soothing Relief Cream was very thick and stayed on well. I had been using it as a preventative, and it was working very well. However when I stopped using it as religiously Cote did end up with the blister looking thing. When I began to apply it again I saw no change in the rash.

The Organic Harvest was very runny and chunky. The chunks were from the oatmeal that is in the cream, but to be honest the chunks bothered me. Also due to the consistancy, I felt like the cream had rubbed off before I even got the diaper back on, so I do not know if this cream had any effect during either stage of application. (I do not recomend this cream.)

Though the rash did not seem to be bothering Cote, I wanted to do away with the rash before it did. I went to Babies R' Us and purchased the Desitin Rapid Relief Diaper Rash Cream for just over $3.00. It has a thick and creamy consistancy and stays on well without being difficult to wipe off. I applied it to the afflicted area after each daiaper change, and within 36 hours the rash was completely healed! I am so beyond impressed with this product!!!! I highly recomend it!! A Strong Two Thumbs Up!!

Fun Time :)

Here are some short clips of Cote fun... Enjoy!!










:) Stay Connected

Vine Street Photography

Last Friday Cote and I had a photo shoot with Tom at Vine Street Photography!! We got the pics back this weekend, and I am in love! I am so happy to have pictures with my baby girl!

CLICK HERE TO SEE!!

(notice that the password is case sensitive and my last name)

I am trying to pick the 10-15 photos that I want professionally finished. It is a tough choice!!

Also, Tom has offered a wonderful deal for my family and friends. If anyone would like there own copies of a particular picture, there is a 40% discount! The price sheet is posted in the first image. Simply email him with your requests! His contact information is provided on the website.

If anyone has any favorites to help me decide which ones to get, comment below please!!

:) Stay Connected

Sonogram for Hip Displasia

Apparently when a baby is born breech they need to have their hips sonogramed to check for hip displasia. [click here for more info.] Today was Cote's appointment for exactly that. We had to go to Children's at 4 PM to get it done.

We got to the hospital at around 3:30 to get checked in and fill out the paper work. After about 10 minutes we were back in the room getting her sonogram done. And it took what seemed like forever. The guy was having a difficult time on the first side getting the pictures taken. Between holding her legs and doing the sonogram, it was hard to press the button for the pictures. It was a three armed job being done by a two armed man.

Before he could finish the first leg, Cote was hysterical. They nurse kept asking me to give her a pacifier even after I told him that she will not take one. Then he asked me to give her a bottle. He seemed disappointed when I told her I nurse. Its like I was disappointing him for my decisions. I was rather upset with the situation, but oh well!

By the time he finally finished the other leg, Miss Cote Marie was not a happy camper. But hopefully we will get the results back soon, and everything will be okay.

The one good thing I can say about the experience was how efficient everything was. Besides the seemingly forever process of the sonogram itself, I was back in my car by 4:05.

I will update everyone with the results when I get them...

:) Stay Connected

Urban Photography

When Cote was 10 days old, Mom and I took her to have her pictures taken by a waonderful photographer named Leslie Katz. Her studio is called Urban Photography, and she takes superb pictures of newborns. I was lucky enough to have a mom who planned ahead and arranged this amazing opportunity! (THANKS MOMMY!) I am so grateful fopr the outcome! Cote looks beautiful as ever, and now we have something we can cherish forever!

The photos are linked in a tab above, and to see the photographer's page click here!

Here is another temporary link to the photos. <3

Hope you enjoy!

:) Stay Connected

The Look of Colic

So if you watched the video, I assume you were able to figure out that the poor little baby was trying to go potty. By the way isnt she so expressive!?! I think it is adorable!! But, as you can see she was having a little trouble, poor thing, and at the end she started to cry. This has basically been the routine for a couple days. If she has not been asleep or eating, Cote has been fussily trying to potty or spitting up. Her stomach is clearly upset.

Diagnosis: Colic

At first I thought she just wanted to be held, so that was what I did. Then I realized she was only calm when I was patting her back or bouncing her. Slowly I noticed her struggled efforts to potty and her increased spit-up/burping. She also is constantly pulling her legs to her chest, bearing down, and passing gas when she cries. Thus the only conclusion I could come to is Colic.

I have been giving her these disolvable, homeopathic pills that Elizabeth gave me called "Hyland's Colic Tablets."

As far as I can tell, they are working. Mom gave me some other meds, but they are liquid. Since I have been having problems administering meds through a dropper I will be sticking with the tablets for now.

So far I feel like we have been very lucky that she has not cried incesently and been unbearable to live with. Cote has been rather soothable though she is in obvious discomfort. I wish there was more I could do for her, but sadly there is no cure! All I can do is try to make her more comfortable.

I am also doing my best to be informed:

Mayo Clinic

WebMD

Colic Calm

Baby Center

If anyone has any other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to offer them in the comments below!

Please and Thank you!!

:) Stay Connected



What to Expect: Month One

Today is the day my precious angel turns one month old to the date (31 days). It is crazy how much she has grown and changed already. The last couple weeks have been absolutely amazing. I am so beyond blessed to have such an amazing daughter. I thank the Lord every day! :)

But on to the topic of this blog...

I am sure many of you have heard of the book "What to Expect the First Year."

The book breaks down each month of the first year and explains what to expect (obviously). And at the front of each chapter there is a breakdown of things the baby could or should be able to do. Each month I want to compare Cote's progress to what the book recommends. I believe it will be a great way to share her growth with everyone, which by the way is incredible. She is growing every day! It’s a beautiful thing to watch!!

Anyways...

According to the book:

By month one, your baby...

...should be able to:

lift head briefly when on stomach and flat surface

focus on a face

...will probably be able to:

respond to a bell in some way, such as startling, crying, quieting

...may possibly be able to:

lift head 45 degrees when on stomach

vocalize in ways other that crying (e.g. cooing)

smile in response to your smile

...may even be able to:

lift head 90 degrees when on stomach

hold head steady when upright

bring both hands together

smile spontaneously

Well, I am very pleased to inform you that my Cote Bear can do ALL of those wonderful things. I am amazed every single day at how strong she has become and how alert and responsive that she is. She can even support herself on her legs with a lot of help of course. This little baby is beastly! ;)

She has also really begun to display her personality! When I first brought her home she was very calm all day. She slept a lot and was on a pretty regular schedule. However, this last week or so Oscar the Grouch has taken over. I believe it is a growth spurt, but Miss Cote only sleeps at night and mid-day and only with me holding her. If she is awake she wants to eat all the time. If she is not doing either of those things she has been pretty fussy. It’s slowly getting better, but things have been wild.

Actually, today had gone well. As long as she is not too hot, which has been hard in this weather, she is pretty much a happy camper. She smiles, makes sounds, stares out the windows, watches TV, and talks to mommy!! It’s hard to believe there is such personality in such a little person!

I cannot wait to continue to watch her grow and progress. Some more things that have been tried out this month were bathing, pacifiers, bottles, and vitamins.

When it comes to bathing... OMG! This little girl loves to have her hair washed. We haven't done a submersed bath yet, but when I hold her head under the faucet she seems completely at peace. I have never seen a face like hers. She seemed completely blissfully, happy!! It was amazing!!

As for pacifiers... let’s just say she does NOT like it!! I waited till about week three to give it to her because I did not want to mess with her nursing abilities. Every time I try to give it to her she gets a look of complete disgust and then gags herself. Secretly I have to say it makes me happy that she is not interested. I am pretty out on pacifiers while nursing due to my fear of nipple confusion which brings me to bottles.

I had to introduce her to bottles for a couple of reasons. One reason to introduce her to bottles now is so that she will accept them later on when I go back to school. The other reason I had to give her a bottle was because every time I tried to give Cote the vitamins she needs, she would choke. It was not pretty, so to kill two birds with one stone I put her vitamins in a bottle I pumped fresh each night. It was working beautiful, but I have stopped on the vitamins while we get through this slump.

Hopefully, things will all get better with tummy, and she will continue to blossom!!

:) Stay Connected

Battle of the Brands: Diapers

Ah the dreaded battle...

verses

To be honest, I do not really like either of them. For Huggies, I have been using the Pure & Natural line. This is the line that they offer that is hypoallergenic with aloe and vitamin E. For Pamper, I have been using the Swaddlers Sensitive line. This is their hypoallergenic line. I have chosen to try these particular lines just to be on the safe side due to my own personal skin sensitivity.

 I will start by discussing the Pampers because they were what was used in the hospital, although in the hospital they used the regular Swaddlers (which to be honest were much better than the Pampers that I will be talking about.) I have been using the newborn size. The box that I bought had 88 diapers in it for around $30. This comes out at about 34 cents per diaper.
The Swaddlers Senesitve have their good qualities and their bad. Starting with the positive: The line I use can be purchased in bulk. They have the wetness indicator line. They also have not caused Cote to have any kind of negative skin reaction. They have an interesting inside liner that does not seem to leak absorbency beads all over her, and I have had no leak problems. Finally, they conceal the potty smell well!

Sadly though, that is all the nice things I really have to say about these diapers. They are supposed to have the umbilical cord cutout, but they do not. The tabs on the side are too sticky, so they are hard to unfasten quickly. The leg holes are too small, and they cut into Cote's thighs. Due to the "breathability" quality, the diapers feel very thin. This feature causes the diapers to feel warm and wet when they are dirty. It is an unsettling feeling. All of these features together make me dislike this diaper!
In the Huggies, I have also been using the newborn size. These are purchased in packs of 30 for $12.99. This comes to about 43 cents per diaper, so already there is a down side to these diapers. They are more expensive and cannot be bought in bulk. I have also had problems with the absorbency beads sticking to Cote, and I have had one pretty bad lack while using Huggies. They also smell instantly of urine when they get wet.

However, the Huggies make up where the compared lack (and vice versa). For example, they have a great umbilical cord cutout. They fit Cote's body nicely. These diapers also have the wetness indicator and are very easy to get on and off. Cote has also not had any negative skin reaction to these diapers.
When compared, honestly I think that both brands have a lot of room for improvement. It seems as though you have to pick the qualities you like and decide because neither excel in the same areas. For that reason, I have to say that when forced to choose I choose Huggies. The fit around Cote's legs is my deciding factor. I cannot bear to see the red rings on her legs that the Pampers cause. I will probably try the Pampers again when she moves up in size just to see if there is any improvement.

For now, I’ll be sticking with the Pure & Natural.
Cross your fingers for no more leaks!!

:) Stay Connected