DaDaDaDaDa

I already knew that Tia loves her Daddy and now even more so. For the past month, all she has been chanting is DaDa DaDa. It is the cutest thing ever.  Chris even got it on audio and I am eagerly trying to convert it so I can post it here. She even says 'Hi Dada' on it, unintentionally of course. 

She's been great and so much fun. She is sitting up and playing away. Her cheeks have gotten bigger and she is sleeping great unswaddled in her crib all by herself.  Daycare says she is the happiest baby and it just seems like she is coming in to her own.  She's a little person and definitely has a personality too. Some times I see her act like me and sometimes like Chris. It is just an amazing thing when you see yourself in your child, isn't it. Crazy how it works and how a child can be blended with traits from two different people. 

We just love her so much and I can't wait to watch her grow up!

Sleeping Unswaddled

So we finally decided it was time to let her sleep unswaddled.  For the past few months, we've tried it here and there and she either never went to sleep or was super cranky the entire next day.  She is getting so big and we know we can't swaddle her forever.  So after she got over her virus, we decided to make her sleep by herself unswaddled the past week. Chris and I are taking turns with putting her to bed and sleeping in the spare room next to her to get her if she cries or loses her pacifier.  The first night, I hardly slept because she tossed and turned losing her pacifier and crying out for it. Every time she would fall asleep she would put her face straight down into the mattress. Of course that scared me to death and I would turn her head and she would get mad. I was a tired wreck at work the next day, but I was praying that this would be a week or less task at hand.  When Chris watched her through the night, he hardly slept because he was fearful since she was again putting her nose to the mattress and trying to sleep that way.  Last night was a huge accomplishment because she went right to bed and slept on her side. In the middle of night she woke up only one time and I put her on her back, gave her her pacifier, and she went straight back to sleep. In the morning, she was still out like a light and I was able to make her bottle, shower, and I still had to wake her up to feed her.  She slept great!  Let's pray this means she is getting used to it and it will be less work than we originally thought. After reading blogs and forums of other parents who were also trying to wean their babies off of swaddling, but weren't very successful.  They say it typically takes about 7 days to change the habit of a baby, but Tia has slept swaddled since birth.  Her crib is super comfortable and because she is so active, I think she tires herself out. I guess we'll see. She is super cute when she sleeps too. My favorite is when she is in the fetal position.

Tia's Monthly Pictures

I finally found a way to post all of Tia's pictures in batch format and have viewers have the option to download the ones they want in the printable format size.

Check out her pictures and note that you can view the slideshow in full screenview by clicking the double arrow in the right top corner, as well as change the settings for how fast the pictures transition among other things. Pretty cool.

http://angie5.magix.net/album

Stay tuned for more as she gets older!

Tia is all better!

Monday - Call from daycare that Tia had 4 loose stools
Tuesday - Mommy stayed home w/Tia while she had many loose stools and a sore bottom
Wednesday - repeat of Tuesday
Thursday - Daddy stayed home w/Tia while she had many loose stools (worse than Tuesday and Wednesday) and a very very sore bottom. Had a more solid stool just before bedtimej
Friday - Daddy stayed home but reported that Tia was feeling better and her stools were starting to be back to normal

It is so amazing how something so small can produce something so stinky and routine-changing. We let her go clothes-free for the past 4 days trying to air out her sore bottom and give it time to heal, we gave her soy formula to try to get her a little more stopped up, and we were continually doing laundry the past four days. BUT in all optimistic views - we both had so much quality time with Tia it was unreal. We got to witness her saying Dadadadada and Chris even caught a clip of her saying Hi dada although she didn't mean to - but it is super cute. In light of her ailment, she was happy the majority of the time and extremely playful. She was more needy in the sense that she wanted our attention more but as they say these moments go by so quickly! I'm glad baby girl is feeling better. She is definitely the light of my life and Chris is my savior! Yes, I'm in a philosophical mood and yes I love you all....okay, I'm having a dirty martini and I'm appreciating life at the moment, but that point is that babies are very precious and I am fortunate that Tia only has a virus and not something life threatening. It pains me to hear of stories of fellow mothers having to go through trying times with their babies. I just can not imagine and it causes me to tear up thinking about it. (sipping my martini) Okay, seriously though Thank you to all of your supporters and loved ones of Tia especially Katma who is our go-to parent to watch Tia.

Day 3 is with Daddy

Tia is still having signs of loose stools and a sore butt, so Daddy is staying home with Tia today.   I went up to Wal-greens this morning and got her some Soy for Diarrhea for her to take...doctor's orders.  But I can say that Tia is still happy as can be and although she was up a lot last night because she wanted to play (smiles when I'd look in on her), she was in a great mood again this morning. So hopefully her poopy diapers will start being more solid and we can get her back to daycare and on to a regular schedule!!!

Baby Girl is Sick Again

Tia's daycare had a whole infant room out late last week and now other babies are out this week with a virus that is going around. I will have to admit, even though she had diarrhea every time she goes and her bottom is in pain, she sure is a happy camper. She smiles as much as she did before and she seems to be taking it pretty well. Although, every time you change her she starts flipping out like she got a paper cut down there - I just hate seeing her in pain. I stayed home today with her to try to have some mommy-Tia time. Right now she's naked in her swing airing out so her bottom will heal. Doc says she'll have to be out tomorrow too and gave us some items to pick up from the store. I know her first year of daycare comes with lots of sickness including us getting sick too. I just hope she heals up and feels better soon.

Tia's First Cardinal's Game

We took Tia to her first Cardinal's game tonight on July 3rd, 2010. Luckily for us, my friend Cherri invited us into the Suite so we had some air conditioning, free food/drinks, and a great view of the game. Baby girl loved all the people and had a blast.

Tia's Elbows

So we were at my grandma's last weekend and a few times my aunts would say 'wow, look how far back her elbows extend...that is crazy. Then I showed them how I have double jointed elbows and how they extend pretty far back. When Tia would do it, I would do the same and they said 'yep, she has your elbows for sure'. It is just amazing when you see something on or in your child that takes after you. It hurts Chris to see my elbows in action because I can turn them in a weird way and almost hyper-extend them. I was showing him Tia's elbows in action and he said to stop because it hurt him to see it, then I did it myself and he doubled over in pain. It just cracks me up.

Tia's at Katma's Today

Kathi was off from work today through the 4th and wanted to watch Tia one of the days so we let her watch her today.  She smiled really big when she saw Katma this morning and seemed to be excited to spend the day with her grandma.  It is amazing how much stuff babies have when you take them places for the day.  With Tia, I usually bring as much stuff as I can because she is very active and requires a lot of attention and things to keep her busy.  Today, I brought her Swing (a requirment these days), boppy (for bottle feeding), bumbo (for solid foods feeding), her ginormous bag of supplies (diapers, wipes, rash creme, aspirator, clothes, bibs, burp cloths, food, bottles, etc etc), and some blankets.  When we went to my grandma's past weekend, she had the entire car full of stuff. I had a small bag and Chris had a small bag.  I know it will change as she gets older and I think we need to start investing in a second set of things that can stay over permanently at Katma's, since she seems to be the go-to sitter for us. All in all, I know Tia is having a blast with her grandma today.

Temper Tantrums

Up to this point, I have never seen Tia have any sort of temper tantrum and really not much fussiness.  She has been a really happy and good baby and we've been blessed.  However, after she got her 6 month shots, as well as had an ear infection, she has not been herself as much lately as she was before Friday.  If she gets mad now, she'll arch her back and start kicking her legs while screaming out.  Things like changing her clothes are now not her approved actions and she gets super mad.  This morning, in face, I was cleaning out her nose and she got so mad that she even started to cry with real tears. I seriously hardly ever see real tears and I just couldn't believe it. I know she is a bit under the weather, but I hate to see baby girl upset.  Of course, within a few minutes, she was her happy self again.  I really hope she snaps out of these temper tantrums though. Every time she has one, I say to Chris 'so how many kids do you want' and we both chuckle. We just love her so much and hate to see her under the weather.

Solid Foods

Alright Moms out there - I want to hear about what you are doing with your kids with solid foods for anyone who has had babies within the past 10 years. Now that they have all the formula, 1st foods, 2nd foods, and recommendations - I just want to hear how you started out your babies on solid foods.  Tia loves most of her solid foods, especially applesauce.  She opens her mouth super wide and chomps right down. It is so cute and I can't help but say 'you're such a big girl.'  She loves airplane when daddy does it, but knows mommy is more down to business, lol.  One thing is for sure - it definitely is a lot messier! 

6 Month Doc Appt

Tia had her 6 month doctor's appointment and yet again, another ear infection in one ear.  The poor thing to be back on antibiotics and also getting her 6 month shots.  She had four in the legs and luckily for me, I didn't witness it because I was just arriving via airplane into STL at the time of her appointment. I did however meet Chris and Tia at the doctor's office and when I arrived, Chris's face said it all - he was glazed over like he had witnessed the unspeakable. I just felt so bad for him to have to witness her pain.  Last time, he had to console not only Tia, but me also me - it is just heartbreaking.  She weighed almost 16 lbs and is about 26 inches long.  She is growing up fast, that's for sure.  When we got her home, she had a fever and that coupled with the ear infection left for an unhappy baby. I just felt so bad for our little girl. But I am happy to report that she is healthy and hitting many of her 6 month milestones.

Daddy & Tia All Week

Last week, I was out of town for work all week long from Monday through Friday.  I had a work trip to the Womens' Business Enterprise National Conference and Business Fair in Baltimore, Maryland.  Before last week, I had only spent 2 nights on 2 separate occasions away from Tia. I knew I'd be missing her and Chris so much.  It was actually the longest period of time I had been away from Chris since we've met.  I was really excited for him to have this bonding time with Tia and see how it would go. I did feel bad that he had to get up at 5:30am/6:00am every morning for an entire week for the first time since she was born.  We skyped the first night and I was able to see her via video feed and it was precious, but I think seeing her made me miss her even more. I felt like I was in the service overseas and having QT time with my family via video/phone. It really made me appreciate all of the armed men and women giving up much of their every day life to serve for our country away from their families. I know that I don't want to miss a beat with Tia and I can't imagine not being there for all of her milestones.  The week went well professionally and personally, I tried not to think much about baby girl except when I had to peak at her picture or I was showing her off to someone I was networking with.  I could not wait to see my baby girl and amazing husband.

Happy 6 Month Birthday to Baby Girl

Today, June 19th, Tia is 6 months old. She is getting so big! She gets to spend part of today with Katma because it was the first time Tia has spent the night somewhere other than home. We had an event last night and during the day today, so we let Katma keep Tia over night. Chris was super cute because when we got back late last night, he drove by there to peak in on her....he said he had to get his medicine that he had left, but I am pretty sure he just wanted to see his baby girl. She is just such a happy baby and I just love her so darn much. It just amazes me how she responds to Chris and me when we talk to her. Her face lights up, she talks and has conversations with us, and she gives us hugs and kisses. I just can't imagine my life without her. Happy Half Birthday baby girl - you mean the world to me and daddy!

Tia's a Ham

Belly Sleeper

We've swaddled Tia up until this point, but have been letting her sleep on her own lately. I was waiting for her to be confident in rolling from back to front then from front to back. She has finally gotten to the point where she doesn't struggle with it. So that is when I told Chris, we'd be ready let her sleep unswaddled. Of course, the first night, she would bang her legs and arms onto the bed and roll incessantly, but finally after about 1.5 hours, she finally fell asleep face down. I rolled her over onto her back and since she was so tired, she didn't fight it. She slept with her arms extended above her head almost the entire night. In the morning, when I was taking a shower, she must have rolled back over because this is how I found her. It just scares me to death. Daycare says she does the same thing and they will wait until she is asleep then turn her head more. I wish she would do it on her own, but she loves to bury her head into the sheets. It is going to take us some time to get her to go down on her own, but I'm confident she will soon enough. What a cutie.

A Cutie Pic from Mother's Day

Tia is the cutest! When she wakes up from a nap, she will whine until one of us comes to get her. The minute she sees you and knows you are coming to 'save her' - she smiles really big. On Mother's Day, I had taken care of Tia all morning and when Chris got home from some errands, I relaxed on the couch and was playing on the computer. Tia started to whimper and so we knew she wanted up. I kept saying 'Chris, do you mind grabbing her' and he didn't do anything but ignore me. I even made the comment - 'wow, it's Mother's Day hon, you mind' and nothing. Chris knows I can't stand to let her get to the crying point and so I run into the room to find not only my beautiful smiley daughter, but a card from her - isn't that precious. And yes, we still swaddle.

She is so Cute

I just had to post this picture because it is just so precious!

Graduating to Big Girl Diapers

We've graduated Tia to bigger diapers (2) because she has grown bigger than her normal diapers. Which was perfect timing because the last diaper I used became an explosion. She had poop all over her blanket, her onzie, up her back and she even pooped on her doll named Little Angie. So we are pretty happy to have bigger diapers to use now. Hopefully it will be awhile until any more explosions.

Solid Foods

We've been introducing solid foods to Tia for a couple months, but now we are a strict regimen of fruits twice a day. We have her 1st applesauce and 1st bananas supply ready to go. She gets half a container twice a day and she loves it. She gobbles it right down and opens her mouth for the next bite. It is super cute. I love seeing her in her bumbo sitting up like a big girl and eating her big girl food.

Happy Birthday Aunt Liza!

Tia loves her Aunt Liza and wants to wish her a very Happy Birthday today. She wishes she could have made it to her big birthday bash to have her first swim yesterday, but since the entire family is sick right now, we decided to stay in quarantine. She does hope to have her first swim very soon.

Another Ear Infection?

Tia went to the doctor yesterday because we saw signs of an other ear infection. She weighed 15.7 lbs. Doctor says as of now, it is just a common cold and since our entire family has been sick off and on the past few weeks, Doc says it is because we are also getting it from the daycare. Once a year has passed, we will all be more used to it and won't get as sick as often while going. I have a feeling that her common cold will turn into another ear infection, but we are hopeful that it won't. The poor thing has had her share of ear infections already!

She's Getting So Big

I seriously think Tia grew over night.  We have our morning play-time where I get some quality time just talking, laughing, smiling, and loving on Tia.  This morning, she seemed taller all of a sudden. It was the strangest feeling, but a good one, of course.  Then, when I took her to daycare, I was carrying her car seat in and it seemed so much heavier than yesterday.  I know babies can go through growth spurts, but wow - I didn't know I could actually tell a difference in just 12 hours.  She has always been in the higher percentiles for height and has been wearing 6 month clothes since she was 4 months.  Next week, she'll officially be 6 months and I am already digging into the 9 month clothes.  It is just crazy!  But thankfully we have soooo many clothes that it won't be a problem.

Tia's First Dolls

The past month we've introduced some baby dolls to Tia. We gave her a little plush baby doll that is super cute. She instantly grabbed the braids and hits the baby on the ground. When that baby doll got puked on, we went and grabbed another one out of her toy bin that was a bit bigger but had bigger, easier to grab, braids. She would grab this doll's braids by both hands and bang the baby on the ground. Then when that baby got puked on, we grabbed another one that looks like an Asian doll. Chris named her Little Angie or Little Mommy. Tia also loves holding onto her braids and throwing her around banging her down on the ground. Then one day we were driving and Tia had the medium sized baby doll and I said 'are you playing with Ginger' and Chris started laughing because he wanted to know where I came up with Ginger. I explained that I just threw it out there because her hair was a ginger color. Of course, Chris named the smaller baby doll Maryann because he thinks of Giligan's Island when he hears Ginger. So we have Little Angie, Maryann, and Ginger as her baby dolls. What I love is that she loves giving them kisses.

Thumb Sucker

So Tia has finally found her thumb and I am pretty sure she is going to be a thumb sucker. She just loves having her thumbs in her mouth. It is super cute too because her other fingers are still stretched out, so she hasn't learned how to curl her fingers into a fist yet. But we still try to get her to use her binkie or not suck on her thumb, but she seems pretty determined. I wasn't a finger sucker, but Chris was, so I guess we'll see how Tia turns out.

She Screams in Joy When She Sees Me

I love picking Tia up from daycare because she screams and smiles so big when she sees me. I just love it so much. Then when I pick her up, she squeezes me and just is so happy. I know she does the same for Chris too and it is super precious. I just wish I could play with her, but I have to put her in the car seat and get her home. But once we get home, we play and have a ball. She is so much fun and loves to show off, etc. Watching her grow up is one of the greatest gifts I could have ever asked for. She is darling!

Her Forehead Looks Horrible

Tia's forehead looks horrible. She has been scratching her forehead with he nails and Chris says it looks like we dragged her on the concrete. I hate that she looks like that and daycare says she does it when she is tired and cranky. We cut her nails constantly, but they are like daggers. I hope she cuts that out fast because I don't want her to see pictures of herself when she is older and think we were bad parents, lol. She is so darn strong and when she grabs our face or skin, she scratches us - but of course we withstand the pain because it is so darn sweet. But when she does it to herself, she breaks skin and leaves these horrible scratch marks. My poor baby.

Mommy's New Hobby

Most of you already know about my new hobby...being an independent consultant for Thirty-One Gifts. I've been spending any free time I have on this new venture which is usually after Tia goes to bed so I've been up late almost every night the past couple weeks. But I'm excited about my new venture and I decided to join because I love the products that Thirty-One has to offer. Many of you have received customized gifts from me, whether that be a customized frame, personalized calendar, personalized baby clothes, wine glasses that I glued swarovski crystals on, customized wine labels and the list goes on. So most people know that I love giving creative and personalized gifts. So when I saw the products that Thirty-One had to offer, I picked out a ton of items I had in mind for friends and loved ones...then I read up on how low the start-up cost was to sign up. $99 bucks and they had a new consultant special that if you sell $1000 worth of product in your first 30 days, you get your $99 back. Well, I signed up two weeks ago and I've already hit $1000 - which means I started for free. Well, technically I did pay the extra $50 to pick out the fabrics and embroidery of my choice. But heck, I'm already off to a great start and the best part is that I get a commission check! yay. I'm calling all friends, loved ones, family, and people I don't even know to help me launch my new venture by doing one of the following (applies to anyone - nationwide): (1) host a party at your home (2) host a catalog party at your work or social scene (3) let me know if you are interested in joining my team AND/OR (4) Check out the merchandise and buy something. I can guarantee you'll see at least one or two things you'll love and the best part is that you have the option to personalize! But my thing is not to pressure anyone into doing anything they are not comfortable with. So there is no pressure. I would like to thank all of my friends who have already hosted parties, have parties on the upcoming calendar or have let me know they want to have a party. Without you, I wouldn't be as excited as I am. So thanks for the support.

So check out what I'm talking about. I created a blog to educate people on what Thirty-One is all about, as well as keep people posted on any specials - www.31spot.com and from there you can access my shopping portal. For anyone who is already a Thirty-One consultant and you want to get or share ideas, check out my blog www.31obsessed.com.

Mommy Got a Flipcam

Thursday, May 27th, 2010



So I mentioned that I wanted a Flipcam for my upcoming birthday/Christmas present and Chris decides to find a great deal and purchase now. His thought was because moments with Tia now are so precious so why wait. Plus I didn't get anything last year because I couldn't decide what I wanted and I told Chris not to buy me anything until I thought of something I really wanted. So I'm excited because the ease of use is amazing. So compact, functional, user-friendly and just plain easy

She's Gonna be a Thumb Sucker

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010

She has discovered her thumbs and loves chewing on them. For a long time, she would just suck on her knuckles and sometimes her fingers...and I knew it was only a matter of time before she found her thumb. Well she has and she loves them. We try to pull them out and give her a binkie, but she knows and tries to get them back in her mouth. It is cute on one hand and then on the other we picture her with an overbite when she is older if she doesn't kick that habit. I can do what my mom did and put hot peppers on my thumb - From what she said - that cured me right away.

Ear Infections are Back

Tuesday, May 25th, 2010

Our poor baby Tia. She is having a hard time with these darn ear infections. She had two a couple months back and the amoxicilin cleared her up, but they are back. We took her to the doc and the left ear is sooo severe and the right is minor. Another batch of amoxicilin for her. They weighed her and she is at 14.6 lbs. The past week she has been coughing like an old man and boy is her nose runny. No temperature but she sounds congested again. Her diaper is a bit slimier and she is a bit crankier. The sure thing I noticed was that she'd cough while sleeping and her pacifier would shoot out and then she'd whine because she wanted it again. Let's just say that for a few nights - I didn't sleep much. My poor baby and I hope she gets better. However, I have a feeling this is going to be a pattern for her with possibly tubes put in later. I guess we'll see.

Tia Loves Daddy's Beard

Monday, May 24th, 2010

Tia just loves Chris's beard. She will grab it almost instantaneously when she gets close enough and often squeezes it like she would a teddy bear. Today she was drinking down her bottle and she'd put her hand on Chris's face, squeeze his beard 3 times, then let go, then she'd reach back up, put her hand back on his face, squeeze his beard 3 times and then let go. It was the cutest thing and very systematic. I love it. I know many kids have a fear of men with beards, but I don't Tia will fall into that category. I really do see why kids love teddy bears!

Tia's First Restaurant

Sunday, May 23rd, 2010

Today, we went to Hometown Buffet for my mom's 60th birthday lunch. She said she picked Hometown Buffet (She still calls it Old Country Buffet), because she wanted to get her Senior Citizen card, lol So, we brought Tia and she did really great. We brought her Bumbo and she sat in that for a while and was passed around a bit, and eventually fell asleep in her carseat. My brother, his wife and two girls were there and they got to play with Tia a bit too. We also went and watched my older sister Nan bowl in a Celebrity bowling tournament. We didn't stay long, but Tia did well there too. So I wasn't sure what to expect, but I have to admit it went very well. She was an Angel.

The Blog is Getting Neglected

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010

I apologize for the week of no blog posts. I've been really busy working on other things and have been neglecting the Baby Norris blog a bit. I think it is about time to stop posting every day and just post when I can. So please check back from time to time to see what is going on in the Norris Household! Thanks for those who have followed up to this point. Almost 400 posts - not bad!

Tia Got Lots of Attention

Sunday, May 16th, 2010 - Day 146

The past few days have been crazy with my sister's graduation and Steve/Ashley's wedding. Chris was a groomsman and he had the rehearsal dinner Friday night and the wedding pre-party starting at noon on Saturday. I had my sister's graduation on Friday and had to fulfill a favor for another friend during the day Saturday, then the wedding Saturday night. So Katma stepped up and babysat both days for us. It has been awhile since she had babysat. Chris and I haven't needed to get out for a while, and I know Katma was super excited to get some QT with her first grandbaby. Saturday, we loaded the car about 11ish and got on the road. I dropped Chris off down at the Grooms house and I went to meet my friend Leslie who made centerpieces for another one of my friends, Michelle's wedding that was also that day. So I picked up the centerpieces then headed from South City out to Chesterfield to drop them off. Dropped the beautiful centerpieces off to Michelle and Mike (Congrats on your nuptials!) Then I headed to Katma's house and dropped off Tia. The trip was about 2.5 hours long and baby girl was such a good girl. She didn't fuss at all. I got her all settled there and I headed home. I was literally on the road for over 3 hours by that point and by the time I got down to the wedding - I could have been almost to Chicago with the miles I put in, but all worth it!

At Katma's Aunt Amber (to Tia) and Uncle Brandon were already there waiting to see their niece. She was getting so much attention I could see she was eating it all up and of course hamming it up as much as she could. So cute. I love that she has so many people that love her!

Saturday, May 15th, 2010 - Day 145

Finally meeting some fellow bloggers. I'm sure many of you have read some of the comments from Jen Allen. Well, even though we've 'known' each other for over a year now, we had never met in person. We met through this blog and I've been blessed to have her comments, advice, and fellow baby stories. Our mutual friend Ashley Combs got married today and Jen and I were finally going to meet. It was so nice to put a face to a name and boy did we have fun! Congratulations Steve & Ashley on your wedding. We had a great time and I thought it was perfect. I truly saw how happy you two were last night - I'm not sure what it was - more of how you looked at each other. I got some great video of you two that I'll have to send over soon. Congrats and best wishes on a long and happy marriage. LOVE.HONOR.CHERISH.

Friday, May 14th, 2010 - Day 144

Speaking of babies, I remember when my little sister Sam was a baby. I used to carry her around and people, although I was only 16 would ask if it was my daughter. When she got to be 2+ she used to say 'mommy' to me on purpose. I knew at that moment that she was going to have a great sense of humor. It is amazing to me that she just turned 18 a few weeks ago. Boy does time fly. Tonight, I went to her high school graduation and I was so proud of her. It was the longest graduation I had ever been to, but I was so glad I was there. She graduated from Parkway South High School and she looked amazing...she had gotten all gussied up for Prom last week. I do admit I teared up a few times and when they called her name...my mom and I screamed at the top of our lungs. The lady in front of me said 'that was a good one'...but I wanted to Sam to know how proud we were of her. She deserved it! She will be attending Missouri State University in the fall and I am so glad she is starting that chapter of her life. I'm just a proud 'momma', even though I'm only her sister. I think having 15 years between us made me look out for her and I always will. Congrats Sam - you did it!

Miss Show-Off

Thursday, May 13th, 2010 - Day 143

Tia is getting to the point where she wants us to be watching her every minute and not because she is afraid to be alone, but more because she wants to show off her skills to us. We've gotten spoiled to the point where we really could leave the room to fix dinner or go to the bathroom and she was completely fine. Now, she seems to grunt and do these subtle screams to get our attention. We'll come to her aid to make sure she is okay and then she'll smile and carry on with her toy grabbing or rolling over. I personally think she is just showing off for us, which is adorable. Although, Chris and I were always athletes and quite competitive our whole lives. I wonder if she has a bit of our need to do well. She has been working on rolling back over from belly to back. She gets it once or twice a day, but she just doesn't do it confidently yet...she's almost there. But when she can't figure it out again, she gets so mad and some times to the point where she cries out of frustration. It is my hope that one day this will mean she'll be a star athlete or at least give it her best at sports to follow in the footsteps of her mommy and daddy...many years to find out!

Her Mom is El Presidente

Wednesday, May 12th, 2010 - Day 143

Before I had Tia, I used to envision myself as a stay at home mom. I knew I could never do it full time, but I always thought I'd love to stay home with the kids once I started having them. I've done well in my career up to this point and love what I do, so giving it up would have been a challenge. What I found out once I went on maternity leave is that I really don't think I could stay home with the kids. I loved it for the weeks during maternity leave, but I really realized how much I do love getting to the office, having daily social interaction, working hard on projects, and being accountable when working. I could not wait to go back to work and I didn't have any separation anxiety leaving Tia at daycare. Don't get me wrong, I thought about her every minute and worried like crazy, but I knew that I'd fall back into work life just fine. So since I've been back, I've decided to start buckling down and really making some headway into furthering my career. As part of my job, I was in charge of working on social media, and as part of that, I decided I needed to build my credibility. So I've been joining organizations, getting my own person social media sites up to speed like LinkedIn and Twitter. One organization I joined is called the National Association of Professional Women and I liked what this org was all about. It really helps empower women, especially working mothers. So I joined earlier this year and when I found that there was no existing St. Louis chapter, I decided to rise to the challenge and become the lead on getting a St. Louis chapter up and running. I submitted my request to become President and my request was granted this week. I have some work to do to getting the chapter up and running, but since I've planned over 500+ events with some having 500+ event-goers, I'm technologically savvy with web design/social media/blogs, and my 13 years of Corporate Experience will surely make this challenge a pretty easy feat. But we'll see. I'm excited about it and hope that it is a success.

My Biggest Loser Weigh-in was 146 which is down 14 lbs so I was pretty pleased. I was able to fit into a few more pairs of older pants - yay! I will have 11 lbs to get down to my ideal weight. So I'm going to keep trucking along.

She's Been Teething

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010 - Day 142

We've noticed for a while that she has been slobbing all the time, chewing on everything in sight, and we can feel something of a hard spot on her upper gum. But just the past week, she's been grinding down with her mouth while screaming out in pain. I can tell you, I'm not looking forward to seeing her pain, but I know it is all part of it. I hope we can give her a wet wash clothe to soothe the pain and use any other other remedies. I just hate seeing her cry out when we can't do much to help her. It is exciting that she is growing so fast and getting her first tooth already - just makes me all emotional thinking about how quickly she is accomplishing these milestones. Boy they do grow fast!

Introduction to Rice Cereal

Monday, May 10th, 2010 - Day 141

Yesterday, we decided to introduce Tia to rice cereal. Tia has always slept very well at night, so we've never had to introduce her to it any earlier. Doc gave us the go ahead and so we finally got her a baby spoon and bowl for the big day. I should have read up on introducing rice cereal, but I didn't and I didn't remember what the doctor said. So we made up a small batch of rice cereal and fed her 4 to 5 baby spoonfuls. She was all about it - wanting more and even opening her mouth real wide a couple times. It was literally all over the place including her face, hands, bib, bumbo, and outfit. I was pretty amazed how great it went. I then went and read up on introducing rice cereal and read you are only supposed to give 1 teaspoon to start - oops. So I guess since she took a liking to it, that is quite okay. Plus, I made it thicker than they had said - but again she seemed to like it. I'm excited for her to be introduced to solids!

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!

Sunday, May 9th, 2010 - Day 140

This is my official First Mother's Day and it is very excited when I really think about it. I've dreamed about being a mom my whole life and now that I am one, it is just serile. I wouldn't change a think either - everything has worked out perfectly and I love my baby girl so much - she's perfect. Tia was able to send out her own Mother's Day cards this year. We got some crayons and I helped her scribble on each card that was send to 4 Grandmothers and 4 Great Grandmothers. I also included some pictures for everyone too. They say Mother's Day is the 3rd largest card giving holiday and I can see why. I've been really bad about card giving the past several years when I used to be really good. It was when I got married that I decided to start it up again and be good at it. I haven't quite made it there, but I'm working on it. I have Mother's Day down though. I sent them on a Tuesday to give them plenty of time to get to their destinations and I was amazed that they got to some the very next day. I guess I'll have to time it a bit better next year. I just didn't want them to come after the holiday. Happy Mother's Day to all of you Mother's and Caregivers out there. I think Motherhood is taken for granted by many people in the world. It is not an easy job and I know it can go thankless from time to time, so enjoy your day and be pampered by your children and loved ones - you DESERVE IT!

Tia Peed on Mommy

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 - Day 139

We were getting Tia ready to give her a bath. I put her on my hip for a second after I took off her diaper and onzie. It was only moments away from her being put into the water, when I hear some splashing on the ground and then feel some warmth on my hip. It was a small drizzle either, she must have held it until that moment. Chris started laughing and when we looked at Tia's face, she sort of had a smirk that I could have sworn said 'ooops' with a giggle...but it might have been my imagination. So not only did we have to give Tia bath, mommy had to jump in the shower shortly after. I guess it being the first time in almost 5 months isn't a bad track record, since she has pooped on daddy before.

Last One at Daycare

Friday, May 7th, 2010 - Day 138

Poor Tia seems to be the last one picked up at daycare. With Chris and I both back at the gym and working out, we try to squeeze it in before we pick her up. The daycare is open until 6:30pm which is great. So we have a pretty good schedule: Mon-Wed I pick her up by 6:30pm and Tues-Thurs Chris picks Tia up by 6:30pm. Fridays, we take turns. On the days I pick up, I get to the park as quick as I can, do 3 or 4 miles, then get over to daycare to pick her up. When I get there, she is being held at the front by one of the directors. They don't seem to mind, so we will continue this routine so we can get our workouts in. I think Tia enjoys it and she is all smiley when she sees me. I hope Tia doesn't mind being the last kid to be picked up because for a while, that will be the way it is.

Daddy's Back to the Gym

Thursday, May 6th, 2010 - Day 137

Chris had a birthday last week and for his birthday a bunch of us went in on a gym membership to Gold's gym for him. He had been wanting to get back to the gym, but didn't want to pay the membership since we are saving for daycare/moving/etc. So I thought I'd surprise him and he was super excited. So this last week, he's been going to the gym on a regular basis and getting back into the swing of things. He is trying to get his knee back to 100% and he also wants to get back in shape. With me on a health kick the past month, it was appeasing to him to get on board as well. So now that we are both going to work out every day, Tia should be starting to keep us moving. Now we'll both be able to keep up!

Cuts and Marks

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010 - Day 136

So I hope my baby isn't the only one that gets little scratches and cuts from time to time. I'll see one on her nose, then on her leg. Today it was on the inside of one of her fingers. The other day, it was at the top of her forehead. Looks like her knees have taken a beating too. I know she is really active with rolling over and her nails are like knives, but I hate seeing her with these tiny marks all over. I am sure I'm not alone on this and other mothers see the same on their babies. I just wish I could ask 'how did you get that' and hear her say 'at school I rolled over' or something to the tune of what happened. But as we all know, I can't understand goos and gas yet. I just hope they stay tiny and small and I don't have to see anything major for a long while or hopefully never!


Biggest Loser weigh-in today was 151 which is 1 pound up from last week. I've been doing everything right and know that the short term ups and downs are okay because the longer term will result in a big loss. I may not have lost anything the past two weeks, but I can tell my pants are super baggy. Today, I had to keep pulling them up...an annoying, but great thing! So I know my efforts are working - yay!

All Bowed Up

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010 - Day 135

I've been really into bows lately. She got called a boy once and from then on, I wanted to make sure I dressed her in pink or purple. I have tried to get the mini bows to stick to her head, but could not get it to work. I tried everything. So I've invested in some bows that are headbands. She looks so cute in them. Chris makes fun of me because he noticed that she was wearing bows 24-7. When I take her to daycare in a bow, everyone goos and ga's over her. I try to space it out a bit because I don't want her to get a headache, but I do want her to look like the cutie she is.

Sleeping 10 Hours a Night

Monday, May 3rd, 2010 - Day 134

So we did the unswaddle thing for a few days but when I was only able to get a few hours a sleep a night, I was ready to go back to swaddling. So, the past week, we've found a way to swaddle her, but keep her from getting out of it. I can say that she sleeps like a rock. She has been sleeping 10+ hours this past week, it's great. I think she has so much fun at daycare that she doesn't like to nap much during the day, so with her being ready for bed around 8ish and being swaddled still, she's sleeps like a rock! I've decided that until I see her rolling from front to back confidently, then I will keep swaddling her. Once she proves she's able to roll herself over, we'll start trying to put her down without it. I can tell she wants to be a belly sleeper, so I want to know she is going to know how to turn back over when she wants.

She's a Ham

Sunday, May 2nd, 2010 - Day 133

I have been dying to put her into this dress (thanks Cherri) and it is for a 6 month old, but since she is so long, she fits. I think she was having a blast too because she was hamming it up. Oh so cute!

Finally! Tia Seems Okay in her Carseat

Saturday, May 1st, 2010 - Day 132

The past two weeks, I haven't heard any crying in the backseat and honestly, Tia seems like she is doing just fine. I have her favorite chain links hanging down that she plays with and then when she's done, she'll just sit and stare out the window or go to sleep. When I get to daycare or get home, she has a smile on her face. So I think she is dealing with it although I still don't think she really likes feeling constricted. She still doesn't automatically go to sleep like other babies, at least she isn't fussy anymore. Sometimes she talks to me which is super cute. We'll have a long conversation talking back and forth and it really feels like she understands and is responding. She gets really animated and just blah blah blah the entire time. So cute. Let's just pray she stays this way!

Made in Cabo

Friday, April 30th, 2010 - Day 131

Two years ago today, Chris and I got married on the beach in Cabo. We had hoped to go back to Cabo and earn a onzie that says 'Made in Cabo' - but plans changed for us and baby girl was conceived a bit earlier than planned. I can't decide if it feels like 2 years has flown by or it feels like we should have more years under our belt, but either way, I can't explain how happy I am with my life. I wouldn't change a thing on how things turned out for me. I married my soul mate and every day I love Chris more and more, especially seeing him as a father - he's a natural. I love baby girl. She is a miracle that has forever changed my life. I just want nothing but the best for her and for her to have a couple siblings in the near future as well. Today is a great day to think back to the past couple years and smile.
"Someday, many years from now, we'll look back on this crazy time in our life together and wonder how we did it all... and then, those ordinary, everyday moments that we often take for granted will shimmer like stars as we recount them... I'll sit close beside you, you'll take my hand in yours. We'll look at each other and say 'I'd do it all again...and I wouldn't change a thing.' There's no one I'd rather go through life with than you. Happy Anniversary"

Tia's New ExerSaucer

Thursday, April 29th, 2010 - Day 130

At Tia's new daycare, she loves this exersaucer that they have, where she can spin around, put her feet on the floor, play with the toys, etc. So I went and researched some around town and found the perfect one for baby girl. We got it home tonight and daddy put it together. As soon as we put her in there, it was barely a few seconds and she already figured out how to play with some of the toys. She loved it and she got just looked like she was concentrating on everything. She looks so bored in her swing and when she is on the floor, she is constantly rolling over. So we wanted something where she can be more interactive, etc. I think she will love it.

I Think Tia Knows When We are Talking About Her

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010 - Day 129

Our little girl is a smart one. I can see the wheels turning in her head analyzing things, which is as it should be since Chris and I are both geeks w/Finance/Math & Engineering majors and both dealing with computers all the time. Lisa always says that Asians have super sonic hearing and when someone says their name at a distance, they can hear it. Well, it sure seems like that with Tia. I know I always hear when people are talking about me and even when they are far away. I notice that Chris and I will be in deep conversation about her and we'll look down and see she is staring right at us for awhile like she is intently listening to our every word. I caught her doing it at daycare too. I brought her in and put her in the bouncer she likes. I was over talking to the teacher and I looked over at Tia and she had that look on her face like 'I know you are talking about me'. It is so stinking cute. I really do wish I could know what she was thinking sometimes. I can tell she is going to be super analytical, which I hope means she'll do well in school. Chris and I both graduated from high school with perfect gpa's and both being top 10 in our high school classes (different high schools). But we both agree that we had to do the work to achieve the marks we did. A lot came easy, but it wasn't an easy A in any class by any means. So I do hope she has the aspiration to do well in school and of course we'll encourage her along the way. But for a 4 month old, I think she is too analytical for her own good already.

My Biggest Loser Weigh-in today was 150. Down 1 lb this week, down 10 lbs in three weeks! 15 lbs to go.

Our House is Like a Daycare

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010 - Day 128

How is it that no matter how much we tidy up our house, it looks like a daycare. Every corner you look, there is something of Tia's...her swing, her bouncer, her floor gym, her diaper changing supplies, toys, bumbo, boppy, blankets and a couple bibs here or there. I feel like we just cleaned yesterday, oh wait, we did just clean yesterday and already it is starting to have that daycare look and feel. I guess we better get used to it if we plan on having more too. Soon, we'll have the high chair out and be using that daily. It is amazing how much stuff a baby can have, but for us, it is all needed!

Gotta Love Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts(FSA)

Monday, April 26th, 2010 - Day 127

Before I had Tia, I barely knew what a dependent care FSA was, but as some coworkers filled me in, I realize you'd be crazy not to enroll in it. It is almost like a savings account because you put money in and you get it back later, but what is nice is that you don't have to pay taxes. That's right, it comes out pre-taxed into the flexible spending account. Then when we have expenses like daycare, diapers, etc. - we get reimbursed with the funds. We just got our first check and it was a big one because I back paid all the months I was on maternity leave so we had a nice cushion for our first month at daycare. Basically, we'll save $1375 this year by enrolling in the FSA. I would say that is pretty good!

Sleeping with One Eye Open

Sunday, April 25th, 2010 - Day 126

I love how Tia has learned to roll over, but what I'm not so sure I'm ready for is when she rolls over while sleeping. Since Friday, we've taken her swaddler off and she is in her crib all on her own. She seems restless and tosses and turns a lot, which is understandable since all she knows is that she's usually mummified. But I can already tell that her position of choice will be on her tummy or side. She gets all the way over onto her tummy and places her head on the blanket. She doesn't have it turned all the way, which is what is scaring me the most. I did try to move her head so her cheek is flat, but she caught on and buried her face in the blanket even more so. I just wasn't sure if I was going to be able to sleep. Needless to say, I didn't sleep much. We brought her fold-a-way crib into our room so I can watch her. She is only a few feet away and I will check up on her about every 20 minutes or so. I'm obsessed and it scares me to death when I can't see her face and worse yet her body breathing in and out. I know all mothers go through this, but I don't like the worry and paranoia. I know she is getting bigger and she needs to learn these things, but gosh I am just so scared of SIDS that I just error on the side of caution when it comes to any suffocation possibilities. If she had been sleeping on her belly this whole time, that would be one thing, but she hasn't. So I guess it is another thing we'll have to watch her grow into. So if you see me walking around this week like a zombie - you'll know why!

No More Swaddling

Saturday, April 24th, 2010 - Day 127

We asked the doctor yesterday about her rolling over in her sleep and how Tia is strong enough to get her arms out most of the time, as well as kick her legs out of her swaddler. Doc says it is time to let her sleep without it...no swaddler, no position, nothing. I must have been wide eyed the rest of the visit, because the Doc laughed at me saying my wheels were turning with worry about her sleeping. She was absolutely right...I was scared. Tia has been rolling over a lot and she doesn't know what to do with herself quite yet. She looks at you like - help me! And she has never turned her head when she gets tired, she puts her face directly on the ground. So last night, we put her pack-n-play in our room, I put her in a sleeper, and put her in for the night. She looked around not really knowing what to do either. I was laying on the bed looking down at her. She would look at me, look around, and then wonder 'well this isn't how it usually is'. I knew she was tired, because she kept rubbing her eyes and sometimes ripping out her pacifier. So I would put it back in, give her a few pats and then let her do her thing. She then gave me a big smile, which I knew she wanted to play. So I brought her up with me onto the bed. We laid there and played for a while and until she finally closed her eyes. I carried her over to the pack-n-play and put her in. She woke up and looked at me again wondering why she could move her arms. She looked around and rubbed her eyes a lot. Finally, after a while she dozed offed. I literally slept with one eye open wondering if she'd try to roll over. It wasn't until about 3am when she decided to roll over, but she seemed just too tired to make the effort, so she rolled on her side which is how I sleep. She did pretty well her first night. I fed her about 6am and then put her down for a nap in her crib. She did pretty good too - so maybe this won't be as bad a I thought. She is such an adaptable baby and learn so quickly. Gotta love her.

4 Month Doctor's Appointment

Friday, April 23rd, 2010 - Day 126

I was both excited and afraid of today's doctor's appointment. I love hearing how much she has grown, but I hate watching my baby girl get shots. She weighs 13.5 lbs which is at the 45th percentile. Her height is 25.25 inches, which is at the 85th percentile (no wonder why she wears 6 mo clothes now). Her head is 42', which is at the 75th percentile - all those brains she has. Doctor says she is doing well. We gave her our concerns about her allergies. What doc said was that babies can't get allergies and that there must be something else. She found that Tia has two ear infections and gave us some meds for her. She does have eczema which means she is prone to being allergic to things, but it is too early to tell if she has allergies like her daddy. But overall, she is doing very well and her motor skills are ranked in the 5-6 month group.

I warned Chris about the shots beforehand so he could prepare himself. What he didn't know is that he'd have two girls to console, me and Tia. I swear I am such a softy now - I cry at everything. I just hate seeing her in pain, especially when she looks at you first with that 'wtf' look before she screams out in pain...and 4 times at that. Ugh! But you know, she is such a trooper. Daddy calmed her down pretty quickly and he even smiled. The medicine conked her out and she slept on the way back to daycare. She's been her typically happy self all night, so I think she has a pretty good pain threshold. I still hate the darn shot, but I know she has to have them.

She's Even Cute When She's Mad

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010 - Day 125

This picture cracks me up. She is such a great baby that when she gets mad, it is so cute. She barely fusses and when she does, you know she wants something and you can quickly determine what that is. I've heard from many that she barely cries. I know I've babied her when she's sleeping running to her aid when she makes a peep. Because of this, she doesn't cry - she'll howl because she knows I'm coming and will smile the minute she sees me - I love it. With daddy, she is a stinker. She knows how to work him so well and will make a fuss so he'll play with her and hold her. It cracks me up. She definitely has daddy wrapped around her little finger. It is amazing how smart she is and how she knows what things to do to get her way. But she doesn't try those things with me. I have seriously only seen a few tears from her and I hope she continues to be a happy baby. I just hate seeing her cry although I do know that some crying is very healthy and so we do let her fuss a bit before giving in sometimes. I went with the whole notion that you can't spoil them under 6 months old and so I do. What is funny is that Chris and I are super disciplinarians and will most likely be good at keeping our kids in check, but for some reason when they are babies, it is just too hard to be that way. So until they get older, we want them to be babied! 'Don't make me call Grandma'

So Much Fun Watching Her Grow

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010 - Day 124

Tia is so much fun to watch when she is playing and showing off. I can see a bit competitive side to her and she sure loves showing off too. It doesn't surprise me because both Chris and I are competitive, athletic people. She has had a lot of tummy time lately, both on the floor and her boppy pillow. Now that she is rolling over to her belly, we want her to be able to know what to do when she is on her belly. Right now, she grunts in frustration wondering how to roll back over. But regardless of her grunting, smiling, laughing, or just showing off, he is so much fun to watch. She's is getting so big so fast!

My Biggest Loser Weigh-in today was 151. Down 4 lbs this week, down 9 lbs in two weeks - yay! I've been working my booty off, literally! Only 16 lbs to go.

Great time in Ste Genevieve

Tuesday, April 20th, 2010 - Day 123

We had a great weekend in Ste Genevieve visiting Chris's dad and step-mom. Marsha's parents also came down to see their new great grand baby for the first time. Tia got to play a lot and show off a lot of her new skills like rolling over, grabbing things, holding her own bottle, and many more. She was a ham for sure. We wanted to take her on the boat, but just didn't have a life jacket small enough for her, so we'll have to wait until next time. Chris got to go out on the boat. I got to walk around the lake, which is 4 mile of hills, both Saturday with dad-n-law and Sunday with step-mom-n-law. So I got my workout in. It was a lot of fun.

Happy 4 Month Birthday!

Monday, April 19th, 2010 - Day 122

It is amazing how quickly time flies. We are already at her 4 month birthday. She has been achieving so many milestones the past month, it's crazy. Today, she also started her new daycare. I think she adjusted quite well because there were new surrounding and new toys. I was excited on the way to the daycare and couldn't wait to get her started at her new school. My biggest fear was that she had started rolling over while sleeping and the new teachers wouldn't know how she is and wouldn't keep an eye to make sure she was okay. I got her all settled in her classroom, went over all the new routines I'll have to learn with the teachers and the director, and off I went back to work. I called Chris and when he answered, he asked 'how did it go'...then when there was a long pause, he said 'are you okay, are you crying'. And I was. I didn't cry the first time I dropped her off at daycare, but for some reason I was a mess this time. I think she has grown so much and I was so afraid that they didn't know thing things to watch for and especially with her rolling over while sleeping, I was afraid. I definitely don't want anything happening to my baby girl and I think I was a bit apprehensive. Chris thought it was the cutest thing and consoled me saying he'd go check on her at lunch. He called after he did and told me that Tia was smiling away and had napped just fine earlier. He also ran into a few coworkers who had their children there. I felt so much better! It is amazing how much love we have for our children. It is an unexplainable love that know one can ever realize until they have that too. I would do anything for her and I only want the best for her needs. Needless to say, I'm fine now and I'm happy she has adjusted well. I can tell she is a very social-able girl who will get along in whatever surroundings she is in...just like her momma!

Grandpa Nooner and Grandma Noonette

Sunday, April 18th, 2010 - Day 121

Tia is pretty lucky to have as many grandparents as she does. Chris and I, being in our 30s when we had Tia, are both really happy that all of our parents are still living (minus my beloved step-dad Ron who passed away in 1998). Tia is actually luckier than most because not only does she have 7 grandparents, but she also has 5 great grandparents too. This past weekend we went down to Ste Genevieve where Chris's dad & step-mom live. Chris's step-mom Marsha's parents Ruie & Jim also came to meet Tia and I know they are proud Great Grandparents because they were super excited. It was a great weekend and I think Tia had a great time!

My New Workout Routine

Saturday, April 17th, 2010 - Day 120

So I started the Biggest Loser challenge on Wednesday, April 7th and so far I've been doing great. When I weighed in on that first day, I weighed 160 lbs. This week on Wednesday, my weight at weigh in was 155. So 5 lbs down - yay! I worked my butt off that first week and hope to keep it up. I calculated it up and I did over 12 miles of walking, jogging and running. Not bad considering I don't even think I was averaging a mile a week before. Besides going to Fenton Park and doing their path as much as I can, I've been to Bee Tree Park to hike. I've also watched what I ate the past weeks too. I have really never been on a diet, but I'm using the weigh watchers points as my guide. I'm not being religious to that program or anything, but more using it as a tool to know when I'm in the ballpark of foods I'm eating. I have 4 other friends doing the Biggest Loser with me and so far all the people who have weighed in this week have lost at least a few lbs. So stay tuned to my progress and see if I get down to my goal weight of 135, which was my weight prior to becoming pregnant. I am determined to get my body back at least a few months before we start trying again for baby #2!

Last Day at Goddard

Friday, April 16th, 2010 - Day 119

Today is Tia's last day at the Goddard School. It was a shame she was out yesterday from allergies, but at least we found out from the doctor that she just has allergies and she's not sick. The poor thing sounds so congested like it is in her chest - ugh! I know Tia loves all of her teachers at Goddard from Ms. Tomieka to Ms. Jesica to Ms. Colleen to all of the other teachers. I know she'll know something is different not seeing her other classmates, teachers, crib, and other surroundings. But she is starting on Monday at First Academy in Fenton and I know she'll grow to love her new teachers and school. First Academy will be much more convenient for both of us and we'll be able to put the cost savings towards our future down payment of our new house (when we move). I am sure there will be many things I miss about Goddard, but for our family, we have to stay within our budget, think about our future children, and do what is best for our current needs. Having the daycare literally a rock's throw away, will be so nice in case Tia needs anything and Chris can run over there and check on her. I still plan to drop off for the time being, but it will be convenient for both Chris and I to pick her up to take her home. I'm excited to get her going there and see how she does.

Had to Post this for You Gamblers

Thursday, April 15th, 2010 - Day 118

So for all you gamblers out there, namely Lisa and Charlotte, here is your good luck charm! Isn't she cute!!!! These were the tickets Lisa and I had and did pretty darn well too. Now that I'm in the Biggest Looser for Gamblers which basically means you play to win lottery tickets instead of money, she is definitely my good luck charm.

Sent Home from Daycare

Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 - Day 117

We remember when Tia's pediatrician told us as soon as she starts daycare that she'd probably get a cold. I was wondering when that would happen and it happened today. She's been super congested and I just hate it. She sounds like an old man with bad allergies and it just seems to be getting worse. I clean her nose out three times a day with the 'bulb' as I like to call it, but it just doesn't get the stuff way down there. I could tell she had a bit of a runny nose beyond her normal congestion but she was still her happy self. Daycare called about 1:30pm to tell me she had two diapers of diarrhea and if she has another one, she'll have to be picked up. I had a bunch of meetings all day and still had an interview coming in and another meeting, so I talked to Chris to see if he could pick her up if they called. I got a text from him about 3:30pm saying he was on his way home with Tia. We took her temperature, but she was fine. Hopefully she is gets better soon.

Gee Gee and Tia

Tuesday, April 13th, 2010 - Day 116

I love this picture of Grandma Stella and Tia. We call Grandma Stella, Gee Gee, because she is Great Grandma to Tia. I think it is wonderful that Tia has a few great grandparents alive to get to know. Grandma Stella has a picture at home of Chris and Jeremy as babies laying in her arms and all three of them are asleep. So this picture will go very nicely next to that one on her mantle. While house/dog sitting for Aunt Jenny and Uncle Dave, Grandma Stella got a lot of quality time with Tia. I loved every minute that Tia got to share with her Gee Gee.

Extra Time with Daddy

Monday, April 12th, 2010 - Day 115

Today is the Cardinal's Home Opener and as most people who know me would know that I have attended the home opener over 8 years in a row. Luckily for me, I have a wonderful friend Cherri who invites me to her tickets each year. This year, Cherri not only asked me to the game, but also said she got an almost free deal on a hotel room at the Hilton that is next door to the stadium. Since the suite we'll be in will have food and drinks included, I really wanted to take advantage of my big night out with the girls and not worry about driving home to Arnold. So I proposed the idea to Chris and he was extremely supportive saying "I deserve it". I was so excited and I am so looking forward to it. The kicker is, that Chris will have Tia over night by himself. This wouldn't be a big deal, BUT he has never had to get up with Tia for her first feeding of the day, which is between 5:30am and 6:00am. So not only does he have to worry about that first feeding, but he has to get her dressed, himself dressed, her to daycare, and then himself to work by 8:00am. I personally feel that this will be a great chance for him to see what it entails because he'll have to do it for 5 days in June while I'm on a work trip to Maryland. I have been really trying to butter him up the past week because I know it is somewhat of an inconvenience to change his normal routine. I volunteered to get her up, feed her and get her to daycare every morning, while starting next week, when she goes to her new daycare, he volunteered to pick her up every day. So we've become accustomed to our routine and I do feel bad he has to get up almost 2 hours earlier than he's used to. (shhhh, he's not a morning person) But I will appreciate him for giving me a night out with the girls that is worry free, and he'll appreciate how early I get up. Can't wait until tonight!!!!

Got the Stroller Out Finally

Sunday, April 11th, 2010 - Day 114

Yes, I know I've been a bad mom because I haven't pushed Tia around in the stroller, but finding the time has been pretty difficult. After work, we don't get home until 6:15 or 6:30ish and after we feed and change her, it is dark outside. But today, we were able to get the jogger stroller out and assembled. I got to push her around the neighborhood which was pretty nice. She seemed to do pretty well in it and looked around and enjoyed the sunshine. I had walked Bee Tree Park trails with Lisa earlier, so my calves had already taken a beating...then the hills in my subdivision reminded me how sore they were - but that's a great thing.

I'm excited that now with the time change it is lighter longer so we can take her on some nightly walks. I love the jogger stroller too. It has a hook-up for your ipod and is pretty nice to maneuver around. She barely fits in the harness, but as long as she is safe, then we are happy.

Recommended Product: Soothe & Glow Seahorse

Saturday, April 10th, 2010 - Day 113

The Ocean Wonders Soothe & Glow Seahorse is my all time favorite toy of hers (at the moment). It is super cute and when you press its belly, it turns on and plays gentle music. The music is comprised of 8 gentle lullabies and classical selections, along with soothing sounds of the sea (2 ocean tracks). After 5 minutes, the sounds and lights will gently fade out so as not to disturb baby. Perfectly sized for baby to hug, the Soothe & Glow seahorse is a soft & cuddly addition to any crib. Mom can choose low or high volume or turn off altogether. What I will do is play the seahorse while I rock her to bed and once she closes her eyes, I know she is down for the count. Sometimes if she isn't ready for bed, I can play one or two songs and press the belly for a couple seconds and it turns off - pretty neat. The songs are cute including some wedding music. Lately, I can put her in her crib awake, turn on the seahorse and out she goes. I'd recommend it to anyone.

Sleeping on her Side

Friday, April 9th, 2010 - Day 112

The past week, we've been letting Tia 'air out' a bit after we get her home and feed her. She has had a bad diaper rash and we were told to let her go diaper free a small time every night and it will heal faster. They were right too, it totally works. Tonight, it was the cutest thing in the world. She was under her play gym when she decided to roll over on her side and go to sleep. What is crazy is she was sleeping exactly how I do. Partly on my side, partly on my belly, one leg extended all the way down, the other one bent and all the way up into my chest. She looked like a mini-me...and she was naked so it was even cuter, because I love her little butt. I wanted to take a picture, but I know that posting naked pictures of your children online is super taboo. So I'll wait until she does it again, but clothed.

Daddy Got a Chuckle

Thursday, April 8th, 2010 - Day 111

Every since Great Grandma (to Tia) Stella made Tia chuckle, Chris has been determined to get Tia to laugh with the belly chuckle. She laughs all the time, but they are more like squeals and hee hee's. She doesn't have many belly chuckles that we heard when she was a month or so younger as she fell asleep. I had Chris pick up Tia so I could walk right after work and when I got home, he has this look of glee in his eyes. I knew something big happened. He got down and kissed Tia on the neck while rubbing his whiskers a tad and there it was, the cutest belly chuckle. Gosh we love that sound. I got her to belly chuckle a time or two by doing silly stuff, but now Daddy has a sure fire way to get her to laugh out loud. Love it.

Biggest Loser (for Gamblers)

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010 - Day 110

By this time after pregnancy, I had hoped to lose most of the baby weight I had gained. However, I never found the time to exercise or keep to my workout video routine. Once I went back to work, it was work, feed & play with Tia, sleep. Now that she is switching day cares, I will have more time after work to get some walking or running in. At work, they all are doing the Biggest Loser Office challenge and it is amazing to see at least 5 people who lost an average of 25 lbs. They all look fantastic. Last time I had weighed myself was weeks ago and I weighed 150. Today, in the lunch room at work, I decided to jump on the scale they are using for the office challenge and see what I weigh...OMG, I have gained 10 lbs since I weighed myself last. I shouldn't have been surprised, because the fat pants I bought to hold me over were getting tighter by the day. My pre-pregnancy weight was 140 and I had hoped to be closer to that number. Ideally, I'd like to be at 135 which is what I was at 28 years old or 130 which is what I was at 25, but I'll settle for somewhere between 135 and 140.

I know Lisa was also wanting to start a weight loss program and so when we were turning in our winning tickets this past weekend, I proposed a contest with lottery tickets as our motivation. She was up for the challenge and when I got to work and they had lost more weight over the weekend, I decided to create a Biggest Loser for Gamblers edition just for me and Lisa.

BIGGEST LOSER FOR GAMBLERS RULES:
1. “HAVE FUN”, Eat healthy, and exercise.
2. The first weigh in will be on Wed, April 7th at 5:30pm
3. The final weigh in will be on Wed, Jul 21th at 5:30pm (15 WEEKS)
4. Weigh-in’s will occur every Wednesday at 5:30pm.
5. There is a $5 in lottery tickets (per week) registration fee which “MUST” be paid at each weigh in.
6. (Others may join at any time during the first three weeks but the longer you wait the harder it will be to win)
7. All monies owing to the pot should be paid during the time of weigh in or prior to the following weigh in.(So if you have a bad week, be prepared break out the spare change for lottery tickets)
8. There will be a penalty fee of $1 lottery ticket owed if your weight stays the same.
9. There will be a penalty fee of $1 lottery ticket owed for each pound gained. (i.e. Gain 3 pounds, you owe $3 in lottery tickets)
10. The same scale will be brought to each weigh-in and used to ensure consistency.
11. Only weights recorded on the Biggest Loser for Gamblers approved scales on will be recognized.
12. You can quit the competition at anytime and the lottery tickets you have given to the pot will be awarded to the winner of those left in the competition, given they continue through the remaining weeks.
13. The winner will be the person who loses the largest percentage of body weight. (start at 200 pounds and lose 10 pounds and you have lost 5%)…[(Start weight - Finish Weight) X 100 / Start weight = percentage lost.]
14. At the end of the contest the winner will be awarded “ALL” lottery tickets collected by the pot.
15. “Challenge your friends and LOSE WEIGHT”

So wish me and Lisa luck in achieving as close to our goal of losing some poundage and getting as close to our idea weights as we can. Besides this program, we are going to meet as much as we humanly can to walk/run and be accountable for each other. You guys have permission to kick me in the butt if I don't get close to my goal or I quit at any point!!! (Charlotte, you can kick Lisa's butt if she quits or fails)

Tia is Still Our Good Luck Charm

Tuesday, April 6th, 2010 - Day 109

This weekend Lisa came over with a pile of lottery tickets she had purchased with winning tickets she bought previously. I knew she was bringing these over, so I also bought $15 in lottery tickets to add to the mix. I saw some Cardinals $5 lottery tickets and thought they would be fun. So before we scratched off all of the tickets, we put all of the tickets around and on Tia. We did take a picture that I'll post shortly. Low and behold, we won $131! Woo Hoo So she is our good luck charm, although she'll always be mine.

Switching Daycares

Monday, April 5th, 2010 - Day 108

As much as we love the Goddard School, we received the call letting us know that our waiting list application was ready to be honored. First Academy in Fenton is located a rock's throw from Fabick, where Chris works. We had a great feeling when we walked in and many fellow colleagues of Chris have their children there. We put our name on the waiting list, but were expecting to wait for several months until they had an opening. We were pleasantly surprised when they called to let us know there was a spot for Tia. So Tia is staring at her new school/daycare on Monday, April 19th. Not only is it nicer on the checkbook, but the location is extremely ideal so that both Chris and I have easy access to picking up and dropping off. Our decision to leave was absolutely no negative reflection on the Goddard School. We love them and loved all of Tia's teachers as well. There were several reasons that made sense for us to go ahead and move her over to First Academy. We are very excited and pray that Tia makes the transition well.

Tia's First Easter

Sunday, April 4th, 2010 - Day 107

Today is Tia's first Easter. She received a basket & bunny along with a card w/money from her Grandma Wandee & Grandpa Ray, a big fluffy bunny with a card w/money from her Great Grandma Stella, and a fun personalize puppy (usb) w/basket full of candy, and cute outfit from her Grandma Kathi. I think she made out like a bandit! We had her in a few outfits, but didn't get any photos of her. Chris's family are Italians and she was a bit shy to the loudness of their voices. Sometime this week, I hope to put her back in her Easter dress and put her next to all of her Easter toys. She looked so adorable!

A Big Chuckle

Saturday, April 3rd, 2010 - Day 106

I was walking around the house when I heard Tia give out a big chuckle. I then hear Grandma Stella say 'did you hear that' and I said 'yes'...she then said 'has she chucked like that before'. She had chuckled before but only when falling asleep. She had yet to do it as a reaction to a person. But Grandma Stella was doing an animated goo-chee-goo-chee-goo with her hair, hands and body flaring towards Tia. It worked because Tia let out some big belly laughs. Everyone was jealous because we've been trying for weeks. She still will only do it for Stella. I did get some of it on video which I know Tia will cherish when she's older.

Off for Good Friday

Friday, April 2nd, 2010 - Day 105

Tia's daycare has a holiday today on Good Friday, so after Chris and I talked, we decided that I would take the day off to be with her. We played all morning and she is taking a nap right now. She is getting so fun where she acts all giddy when I talk to her and will shy away like she's bashful. We are house/dog sitting for Aunt Jenny & Uncle Dave while they are in Hilton Head. They have a beautiful home and we get to hang out with Grandma Stella who we call GG for Great Grandma (to Tia).

We've Really Got to Watch Her

Thursday, April 1st, 2010 - Day 104

Now that Tia has figured out how to roll over, we've really had to watch her. We used to be able to put her down for floor time and walk out of the room for a few minutes. Now that she is rolling over, we really have to watch her. We have been giving her tummy time, but we thought we'd have at least two more months until she was rolling all the way over. Last weekend, she rolled from back to tummy and back to her back. She gets stuck though, and it scares us because she doesn't turn her head when she's face down. She just grunts like she is mad and tries to push herself, but sometimes is unsuccessful. We were laughing because, she seemed to roll over when we weren't looking. Chris and I were talking to each other and pretending not to look at her and there she goes rolling over, but when we'd look at her - she'd stop. Chris was laughing at her because she rolled over so quickly one time that she rolled onto her buddha belly and instantly rolled back onto her back. I think it knocked the wind out of her and she got upset. Chris was just laughing away and it was really cute because she just bounced off her belly. So now, we are keeping our eyes peeled and paying attention to make sure she is supervised. We don't want her rolling over thinking we are going to come to her rescue and we aren't there.

Pack-n-Play is My New Fav

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010 - Day 103

Katma got Tia the pack-n-play that we hadn't used until this past weekend. We really haven't taken her many places for extended periods of time and until last weekend, she hasn't stayed the night any place except our house. We took the boxed pack-n-play and opened it for the very first time. We didn't use the bassinet or diaper changing station feature, because we only needed it for her to sleep in. It was set up right next to the bed we were staying in and it was really nice having her so close. If she woke up, I'd just lean over and pop her pacifier back in and go back to bed. I've had to get her up by 6:00am when I have to go to work that I've hadn't had much chance to see how long she could sleep in. Last weekend, she left from 9ish until 8:30am - I was so excited. Then on Sunday morning, she slept in until 8. Now, keep in mind, she did wake up here and there, but I was easily able to get her to fall back asleep. We are house sitting for Tia's Great Aunt Jenny, and the pack-n-play is perfect! So easy to pack up and so easy to carry around. Love it! Thanks Katma.

Weening Her From Being Swaddled

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 - Day 102

We have swaddled Tia every time she goes to sleep and for naps. It has helped because if she didn't, her hands would wake her up or she'd have that falling sensation. She will stay asleep most of the night. She's getting bigger now and we need to start weening her from being swaddled to go to sleep. Last weekend, I was able to put her down for a couple naps but I had to hold her tightly and keep her hands from moving much. The first time, she slept for a few hours. The second time, she would wake up from time to time. But at least we are working on it. I also enjoy rocking her and will soon really need to get her to fall asleep on her own. I know I have spoiled her, but being my first child, I just love watching her fall asleep. It is always hard though because we seem to have little time from the time we get home until we go to bed and I know it will be a time investment to get her to fall asleep without being swaddled and on her own. We'll get there and I know it will be really good for all of us.

Her Poor Little Booty

Monday, March 29th, 2010 - Day 101

She's gone 3 months without getting diaper rash and on Friday when I went to daycare to pick her up, they were changing her. She screamed out in pain and I looked at her butt and it was so red and looked awful. I had never heard her cry when she got her diaper changed until that moment. I know that the daycare changes her every hour no matter if she needs it or not. I think they change her as quickly as possible because they have a ton of other kids to watch and sometimes they wipe too hard too quickly. The poor thing has had a sore rump the whole weekend. We are lubing her up with diaper creme, but I just feel so bad for her. I know all babies get it, but I hate to see her in pain.

Grabbing Things Pretty Well

Sunday, March 28th, 2010 - Day 100

For a few weeks, she's been really using her hands, but she hadn't quite learned how to grab things. However, now she brings her hands together and grabs onto things pretty well. Only a few times she's grabbed people's hair, but I can tell that it is going to happen more and more often now that she knows how to do it. We brought out some toys finally that she can grab onto and hold...and bring to her mouth to slobber all over. We have a little birdie that hangs from her car seat handle. When you pull the feet down, it vibrates. When we got it, I never thought she'd be able to pull them down on her own. The past couple weeks when she would be fussy in the car, when I'd come to a stoplight, I'd turn around and put her hand on the birdie's legs. I'd pull it down and she'd feel the legs rise back up and vibrate at the same time. One time, when the light turned green, I took off and it wasn't but a few seconds later, I hard the birdie vibrating. I looked in the mirror and there she was pulling the birdies legs all on her own. So proud of my baby girl!

She's a Piggie

Saturday, March 27th, 2010 - Day 99

It is amazing to me to me how much this little thing can eat. Our doctor tells us to feed her half her body weight. A month ago she weighed in at 10 lbs 4 ozs and I'm sure by now, she's is nearing 12 lbs. We've been feeding her 6 ozs for a few weeks now, but it doesn't seem like it is enough...she is still hungry. This weekend, we fed her 6 lbs and she cried for more, so I made another 3 ozs and she gulped that down. 9 ozs - that is so much for this tiny little body. Yes, she has a buddha belly but I know she doesn't weigh 18 lbs. The other thing she does is eat two quick meals in a row around dinner time. Daycare will feed her between 4 and 5 and then we'll get home around 6ish and she's hungry. The kicker is that she'll eat 6 full ozs two times in a row. So we'll bump it up to 7 ozs and see how she does. So sometimes I'll find myself calling her my little piggie. I think she has an amazing metabolism which would be great as she gets older. There's no doubt she's growing fast.

Going to See Grandpa

Friday, March 26th, 2010 - Day 98

We drove up to Springfield, IL tonight to stay with my dad, step-mom, brother, sister-n-law and my nieces. I have a bowling tournament this weekend and what a great chance for them to spend some time with Tia. We drove up two months ago for Janelle's birthday so they haven't seen her in a while. They'll have all day Saturday and Sunday to spend while I go bowl. The girls are excited and think she has gotten bigger, but they still don't know why she can't walk, talk and play. Janelle said she looks like a boy because she has no hair, lol. My dad is getting his fill in of Tia. He was recently diagnosed with an illness that has given him a short sentence on life and so he is going to take advantage of all the moments he can with his grand-daughters.