Exclusively Pumping Update.

I am still pumping on folks.

I'm not going to lie, it sucks (literally). I pump 4 times a day, and have to take the time out of my schedule to do so. But I have to say, I have a great supply. I can't argue that. I've donated thousands of ounces to mamas in need, and it's perfect.

Babywearing.

I've fallen in love with babywearing.

I wasn't a huge fan of the Moby, which is what I first used when Natalie was born. She wasn't a big fan either - she doesn't like to be confined.

But then I discovered Tulas. I learned about them from a friend, and then a baby blog I read, and then facebook. They're basically awesome. It's a SSC (soft structured carrier), so it has a buckle and forms to Natalie. It's like wearing her as a backpack (or front pack). I bought one with my birthday money, and it might be the best thing I've bought yet. It's so comfortable, and Natalie loves it - she can see what's going on, she's held, she can sleep there, and she can play with my necklace.

 (back carry)

We took it to Denver with us, and seriously only used the stroller once.  She was in the Tula the rest of the time. I almost feel guilty, because we have a ridiculously awesome (and expensive) stroller. But I know that Natalie will ride in the stroller when she's older, and right now is prime time for tula-ing. It was perfect in the airport (TSA can't force you to remove the baby, so I didn't get a pat down or xray or anything - just a hand swab), and I swear this thing has sleepy dust - PERFECT for a first flight.

(front carry - Mt. Evans summit at over 14,000 ft!)

Plus, I have the Eiko Quilt, which is ADORABLE. I'd love to eventually upgrade to a half wrap conversion, but they're expensive. Totally worth it, I hear, but expensive nonetheless. Maybe I'll start saving now. :) It turns out there's a whole world of Tula crazy moms, which blows my mind. But I'm thinking I might have to order a cute hood or other accessories for my Tula.

(stock photo of my carrier)

I don't foresee us stopping anytime soon - it's just easy. Maybe when bits is walking. The standard Tula has a weight limit of 45 lb (and there's a size above it!). But for now, we're loving babywearing. 

Natalie - Month Six.

Natalie! 

You are growing up too fast! I realize I'll be saying this for the rest of my life, but geez. This month was just as busy as all the previous - it's a good thing you're so easy going. Six months is a pretty big number - you're 1/2 a year old. It's amazing that you've been here this long, and yet, not long at all. 

You've started sitting up, and can even stand for a few seconds without help now. Necklaces and glasses and hair have been discovered. Pulling and tinkering with them? It's your favorite. I have a necklace with 4 charms, and you separate them out and inspect each one of them. Daddy loses his glasses to your sneaky little hands at least once a day - you always come in for kisses, and leave with glasses. You can roll both ways now, but generally don't. You just don't seem to care. You also love paper and plastic bags. You shake them around and make all sorts of noise with them! 

We've started with solids too! You've had avocado, asparagus, and strawberries in real food, and carrots and pears/cherries in purée form. Breast milk is still your main form of nutrition, and yes, mama is still pumping on. 

You had your first trip to the zoo (the waterfalls were your favorite), and we went to Aunt Katie's wedding this month. You were very excited to welcome uncle Nick into the family! At the Fourth of July, you giggled right through even the biggest booms. Adorable doesn't even begin to describe it! 

That's it for the half year mark kiddo - I still can't believe we're here. It's amazing having you in our life. Simply amazing. 

Love, 

Mama

Natalie's Baptism

Over Memorial Day weekend, Natalie was baptized. 

The Catholic Church does the whole baptism thing a bit differently - some religions say that baptism is all about accepting Christ into your life and recognizing that you're a Christian. For us, though, that's Confirmation (and it's done around 8th grade - or later). For us, baptism is more for the parents. Yes, it's the "washing away" of original sin, but it's so the parents and godparents can raise their child in the Catholic church and as a follower of Christ. 

Sean and I are pretty lax Catholics, but we still believe in God and all that jazz. And honestly? It's way easier if Natalie gets baptized now. What's the worst that happens? She grows up an atheist or agnostic? Pretty sure a sprinkling of water and oil isn't going to scar her for life (and she didn't burst into flames...)

Anyway. 

My brother is Natalie's godfather, and Sean's sister is her godmother. Both were pretty excited, and it was AWESOME to get the whole family out here to KC. 

Here are some photos from the day!

 

 

Natalie - Month Five.

(yeah, this one is a little late...)

Little bits,

You've hit 5 months! I really love this stage - it's wonderful. You've learned to roll over (just tummy to back), and still look a little frightened each time. It's not a regular thing though. You're also learning to sit up! I can't wait for that.

You were baptized this month. We had it at St. Elizabeth's, where we're parishoners (albeit bad ones). Kevin and Katie are your godparents, and we had all of the family out to celebrate. It was a great time! 

You've been to 6 weddings this year, and you've been great at all of them. Our nights out have become shorter, due to your bedtime being around 7:30 pm, but that's fine with us. You sit quietly each time through the ceremony, and dance away with us throughout the night!

Your first plane ride happened this month, and you couldn't have been more perfect. You rode in the Tula, and fell asleep during take off and landing - both flights! I couldn't believe it. I had toys and a bottle ready to go, but none of it was necessary. You continue to amaze me with your easy going nature baby girl.

Your favorite toy right now is the saucer. Grandma Byrne got it for you, and you love it. You also really dig the bumbo that Grandma Sue got - you can sit and watch while I cook dinner or prep bottles for you.

You've discovered so much this month. You've started blowing bubbles regularly and making other noises with your mouth. You can give high fives too! You've been playing with your hands and discovering those as well. And if we lay you down? Your feet are in the air (or your mouth)!

Over the next month we're going to one more wedding, the 4th of July, and starting you on solid foods! It'll be a big month for sure!

Love you lots baby girl,

Mama