Lil P Update

So I feel like my last post was a little dramatic and probably made me sound like I was barely surviving. The good news is that I have gone dairy free and it seems to be helping. I think the combination of my new diet and Paisley taking medicine for the last week has helped a lot. She still has pretty bad reflux, but the discomfort seems to be better. I am hopeful that I can keep up the diet since I feel like I am starving myself. At least I'll lose those few extra pounds that are lingering this time around. I do need to be better about researching some recipes and substitutes that I can eat. For the last 3 days, Paisley has been much more happy and calm. She still gets a little fired up at night, but that we can deal with.


I've been calling her "Chubbs" since she is so round and loving. I hope she doesn't mind. I can't believe how much she has grown in the last month.

Del Osso Farm

The day after Thanksgiving we decided to get out and do something as a family. I had heard about this Farm in Lathrop (past Tracy) that was festive for the holidays. We drove an hour and found ourselves in the middle of nowhere at this Farm. I would say that Osso Family Farm is part farm, but also part fairgrounds. We had a fun day and most importantly Roman had fun running around playing in the dirt. We wanted to go sledding, but after seeing the course decided that we should wait another year before Roman was ready. The tubes went pretty fast.


They had a zipline and Jay decided to try it out. I think he may have been one of the 1st people to try it out for the season. Thank goodness it didn't break.


Hi Jay!


They also had a giant jumping balloon. Roman loves bouncing around and had so much fun.


We got to meet a few of Santa's Reindeers.


Roman made sure to tell the Reindeer what he wanted for Christmas.


1st Pony Ride wasn't too ideal. When purchasing a ticket for this, I didn't realize you had to wear a helmet. Roman does not wear anything on his head, so after about 2 minutes on the horse, he had enough. We politely thanked the horse and decided to stop the ride before a temper tantrum took place. At least we got a cute photo.


Lastly, we got a family pic with Santa. Roman wasn't too sure about Santa until he gave him a candy cane. Santa definitely knows the way to my man's heart...food.

We can't wait for all the fun and traditions that happen with the holidays. This year, we are going to try and get our tree and decorations up by next weekend. I'll let you know if that happens.

The Return of the Reflux

I'm sad to report that my sweet chubby baby has reflux and it is making her very grumpy (just like Roman as an infant). I shouldn't be too surprised considering Paisley and Roman look like twins that they would both have the same stomach issues, but I was really hoping for an easy infant the 2nd time around. I think I tried to deny the problem for the past 3 weeks and now that I am worn out and exhausted I can admit that something isn't quite right. Her symptoms and issues are exactly the same as Roman...spitting up large amounts all day long (probably at least 20 times a day), general fussiness all day unless we are rocking her and moving around, agitated when breastfeeding, in pain after eating and inconsolable at night before she goes to bed. On the flip side, she is happy in the mornings, smiles a lot (and then one minute later is crying), likes laying on her back, likes the bathtub, sleeps in her carseat and is a good sleeper at night. Seriously...exactly like Roman. I think she may be his female clone.


It is harder and easier dealing with it this time around. Easier since I know this phase will end and that she will eventually be happy. Harder since I can understand the pain that she is in and feeling like there is something I should be doing as a mother to fix it. I think that is why I am not the biggest fan of the newborn phase. I hate seeing them in pain and it just breaks my heart not being able to help. During her 6 week appointment, her pediatrician (who I love) recommended I cut all dairy from my diet and see if that helps. I thought I could do it, but after about a week it seemed impossible (especially since I don't eat a lot of meats), so I felt like I was eating peanut butter all day long. With Thanksgiving and lots of parties these past 2 weeks, I totally cheated and was back to eating dairy in full force. Now I am contemplating what to do...either give the strict dairy free diet a try or start her on a hypoallergenic formula (which was the finally the solution for Roman at 6 months). She likely has a milk protein allergy, which means her little body can't process dairy through my breastmilk. Luckily most babies outgrow this around the age of one and can then process dairy.

I am really struggling with what to do since I don't want to give up breastfeeding, but also don't want her to be in pain. I do know all things will pass and in a few months I will look back on this post and smile. I always remind myself that Roman was a really hard baby, but is now such an easy toddler. I know that he has no memory of the pain that he was in for months and I'm sure Paisley will be exactly the same. I am so thankful that Roman has been so patient with this transition since it allows me to give Paisley the attention she needs right now.

This Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving I feel an overwhelming sense of joy and gratefulness. It is amazing how life can change from year to year and this holiday is always a reminder for us to reflect on our many blessings.

Jason

He has helped me out so much these past few weeks. Every night I pass out at about 9:00pm, which is so early for me. Each night, Jason cleans up the house, kitchen and does the laundry to help me out. He is such an awesome and loving Dad that gives 100% every night to Roman. I couldn't have found a better match and am always excited to think about all the fun and adventures that the future holds for us.

Roman

This little boy lights up my life. He is so special and my joy. Since the day he was born, Roman changed me forever. I have never been happier and he filled a place in my heart that I felt was missing. I am proud to be his Mom and so proud of him.

Paisley

This sweet girl has brought such love into our home. I never knew if I could love someone as much as Roman, but she allowed me to realize that my heart was big enough to share. Roman loves her so much and I realized that she is not only a gift to us, but also to him. She is so sweet and has started smiling this past week. I look forward to all the girly adventures with her and I know that we will have such a special relationship.

Our Family
We are so lucky to have such a close family. Our parents are both so generous. They are constantly helping us in any way needed and always make us feel like they are here for us. We are forever grateful for all their support, love and encouragement.

My Friends
As you become older, you realize how important your friendships are. I feel so lucky to have all kinds of friends in my life. I love meeting new people, while also catching up with friends that I've known forever. I miss my friends that live far away and cherish the time I get to spend with the friends that live close by. I have friends from all parts of my life...work, school, childhood, church and motherhood. I hope they all know how special they are to me. I love seeing them become mothers, get married, get promotions and most importantly be happy with their lives.

Also...
My Faith, Job with Temple Isaiah, Home, Marley, Serena, Going out to dinner, Cooking Club, A good glass of Chardonnay, Napa, Tahoe, swimming, Dr. Wells, Bible Study, Playgroup, Parks, Good weather, iPhone, kids that are good sleepers, shopping and my neighborhood.

This year has flown by and I am just so thankful for it all. So much of my happiness in my life comes from my strong faith. It is something that has brought me such peace and confidence. I no longer worry about the little things in life, but just concentrate on the positive. Here is the verse that within the past few years, has become the way I try and live my life. I think it is a perfect reflection this Thanksgiving.

Philippians 4:6-7
Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.

Wishing Everyone A Happy and Thankful Holiday!

Just Because...

So both little ones are sleeping and I was catching up on email. Thought I would do a post just because I had a moment of free time and had some cute new pics.


Look what Pop brought over, A Train Table for Roman. He loves it (and so does Pop). I love watching Roman play with it since he is so content just pushing around the little trains. It will be fun to watch him as he grows into playing with all the pieces.


We went to Super Franks yesterday with my parents and Scott. Roman loves this place and it is the perfect destination to bring a toddler. They can just run wild and explore.


My Lil Prince. He has been such a good boy lately and so patient with Paisley. I just can't get enough of him. He makes me laugh and is still a major character.


Miss P looking pretty in pink. This past week she has started to become fussy and all I want to do is help her feel better. This is the part of the newborn phase that I hate...feeling helpless as a mom. My heart just breaks when she cries and I can't figure out what to do to help her. I'm pretty sure her stomach is bugging her since she spits up A LOT, but I just need to remind myself that she is OK and it is just part of being a newborn.


I had to take a picture yesterday of the sky. Can you believe how blue and beautiful it was and it is the middle of November? This is why we live in California.

Happy 1st Month Paisley!

Our Lil P turned ONE Month this past weekend. I can't believe how fast this month has flown by.


Paisley has started liking the pacifier. I am a huge fan of binkies and feel that they help so much, especially at night. She is a big sucker, so it really calms her down. She is pretty content most of the day, but can get fired up at night. She spits up after each feeding, so really likes to be held upright with something pressing against her stomach (just like her brother). At 1 Month we feel like she is a pretty easy baby but does love to be held. But in reality, what baby doesn't prefer to be held? Luckily she likes the Ergo Carrier and I know that is going to be so helpful as she becomes more and more awake during the day.


She is starting to get chubby and a few rolls on her legs. It seemed like overnight that she packed on a few pounds and her face is so much rounder. I love chubby babies (especially since I was one myself).


She is becoming so much more aware of her surroundings. She is starting to respond when I talk to her and I really think she smiled at me. I started calling her Paze. Not my favorite nickname, but I somehow always use it.

This 1st Month you...
Like your swing, sleep a good portion of the day and night, are happy being held, are a loud eater, so cute, eyes are starting to turn blue, like being in the water during your bath and look a lot like Roman when he was 1 month but girlier and smaller features. We just think you are beautiful!


I don't want to jinx it, but she is an awesome sleeper. She is really good at eating, pooping then going back to sleep at night. I am so thankful for this, but I do also know this can change at any moment.


Happy 1st Month our sweet love! You have brought such joy, happiness, love and sweetness to our family. Roman just adores you and loves giving you kisses. We are so thankful to have you in our life and look forward to so many fun adventures ahead.

1st Month Survival

A lot of people have been asking how everything is going, so thought I would give an update on the true realities of life at home with 2 little ones under the age of 2.

My daily life during the week has been back to the basics. It is a successful day if everyone has a clean diaper (that means about 15 diaper changes for Paisley), is fed, gets a bath, gets a nap and is happy. If we get out and actually do something that is considered a REALLY good day. I am someone that loves to be out and about, so I've been trying to remind myself to slow down and put the kids first.


Today was a great example of the chaos and how you never really get a break...
I brought Roman to Gymboree for his 9:30am class. To be able to make it, I got up at 6:30 and started getting ready.
We were only 10 minutes late to his class due to feeding Paisley. Why do babies always need to eat right when you are ready to walk out the door? Paisley was pretty awake during the 1st half of the class, so most of the 1st 20 minutes was me running back and forth from Roman playing to Paisley crying in her carseat to stuff the pacifier back in her mouth. Then a quick trip to CVS and Noah's. I pushed Roman in the cart, while carrying Paisley's carseat. When we got home, Paisley had to eat again and Roman wanted to go outside. While I am feeding Paisley outside, Roman decides to get into the plastic pool that is filled with dirty rain water from the weekend. He is as happy as can be, soaking wet and splashing around in all his clothes and shoes. He plays in the pool for 20 minutes and I'm getting cold just watching him. Then he gets out of the pool and runs straight into the dirt. Paisley finishes eating and then proceeds to spit-up all over me and also needs a diaper change. Roman also needs a complete outfit and diaper change due to being soaking wet and cold. After everyone is changed, I look at the clock and can't believe it is only noon. I am exhausted.


While being outside, I remembered a good piece of advice. All that matters is that your kids are happy. It drove me crazy that Roman was wet, cold, dirty and had snot running down his nose but he had the biggest smile on his face playing in the water. Paisley and I were both covered in spit-up, but she was so content being held. It was a good reality check that nothing will ever be perfect, but really all that matters is that everyone had a smile on their face. I learned to let go and just be in the moment. The kids were happy and so should I. I've realized that within the next year my house will probably never be totally clean, I won't be doing a lot of elaborate cooking or entertaining, laundry will pile up and I will be lucky if Roman and Paisley nap at the same time. Among all the chaos, lack of sleep and being a little homebound, I truly am happy. I remind myself daily what a huge blessing these 2 children are in my life. The role of being a mom is so hard and one that you really can't understand until you are in it yourself. But it is the most rewarding, fulfilling, wonderful job too! The payoffs are huge when you see how wonderful your children turn out and I am constantly reminded every day when Roman smiles at me. So when the stress levels get high and I start to feel a little crazy, I am reminding myself...Thank you God. You have blessed me so much with these 2 children and this wonderful life. Life is good and I should be so thankful.


Lastly...I have never been more in love with my husband. He has (and always is) such a huge help. We have a great routine, especially at night and he never hesitates to help in any way needed...cleaning, rocking Paisley to sleep, diaper changes, playing with Roman and walking Marley. Now, if he could just learn to cook. Thank you Jay for all that you do. You always help keep me positive.

Trick or Treat

Our Halloween Festivities seemed to go on all week and I loved each and every celebration. It was so much fun to see Roman running around in his Caveman costume and he just made me smile. By the end of the week, he was getting pretty sick of putting the costume on, but it never got old with me seeing him in it.

Here are some pics from the week...

Roman's Itsy Bitsy Playgroup Halloween Party


Love this group of kids and their parents too!


Dana is expecting a lil girl in February. So excited for her!




Our Pumpkin, doesn't she looked so excited?


Brobee from Yo Gabba Gabba!




Paige "Lil Bo Peep" and her twin brother was the lost sheep.


Our Special Guest, Nolan! He borrowed Roman's koala costume from last year and looked adorable. All the kids thought he was a live stuffed animal. It was pretty cute.


Lil P striking a pose in one of her many Halloween outfits.

2nd Trip to the Pumpkin Patch
We went on another trip to the Pumpkin Patch with my parents and Scott and Tyler.

Roman loved the pumpkin seeds.


So did Scott.


Roman and Jay riding the train.


So many pumpkins to choose from.

Indian Valley School Parade


We went to Grammy's school Halloween parade. I don't think Roman recongnized Grammy "Brian Wilson".


We loved watching all the kid's costumes in the parade. Roman loved the sumo wrestler.


The caveman coming out of his den.

Halloween Night


A huge Thank You to Nana and Pop for taking care of Paisley while we went Trick or Treating.


Ellie "Tinkerbell". I just love this sweet girl so much.


The other sweetest girl, Hunter Rae. Roman is so lucky to always be surrounded by such loving girls.


The crew was ready with their cars.


This was the 1st house that Roman went to. He attempted to enter into the house, but was quickly distracted with the candy.


Our favorite stop, The Honeys. Love having them as our neighbors. Don't worry...they were only passing out beers to the adults.


The ladies at one of our pitstops.


Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween! Until next year...I can't wait!