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Thursday, December 17, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
4th tooth
Geoffrey's 4th tooth officially came out today! This is the top tooth on his right! All day yesterday you could see it, ready to bust out - but you couldn't feel it until today! What a tough little guy!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Veteren's Day at Irvine Park
This year, Veteren's Day fell on a Wednesday, so I had the day off. Grant, Geoffrey, and I headed up to Irvine Regional Park for the afternoon.
First, we had a picnic lunch in the park. Grant and I enjoyed our Subway and Pirates Booty while Geoff played on the grass. He loved picking up the crunchy leaves, and feeling the different texture of the grass.
Next, we went to the Orange County zoo. The weather was nice, kind of cool, so some of the animals were pretty active. Geoff liked watching the bobcat pace back and forth in the cave, and the bear came right out in the middle of his enclosure. Grant thought it was funny that the zoo had coyotes and raccoons. Geoff only really noticed the more active animals, of course, but seemed to really like walking around.
After the zoo, we went over to the duck pond. Geoff liked watching the ducks swim on the lake. Grant and I saw a kid across the way roll right into the duck pond! Gross! Grant thought it was hilarious - he had just been wondering how often people fall in!
We walked over to the train station and then around the lake and back to our car. We drove to another section of the park where Geoffrey got to play on the swings - his favorite!
Once it started to get dark we left the park and went to The Counter for dinner. All in all, it was a beautiful day!
First, we had a picnic lunch in the park. Grant and I enjoyed our Subway and Pirates Booty while Geoff played on the grass. He loved picking up the crunchy leaves, and feeling the different texture of the grass.
Next, we went to the Orange County zoo. The weather was nice, kind of cool, so some of the animals were pretty active. Geoff liked watching the bobcat pace back and forth in the cave, and the bear came right out in the middle of his enclosure. Grant thought it was funny that the zoo had coyotes and raccoons. Geoff only really noticed the more active animals, of course, but seemed to really like walking around.
After the zoo, we went over to the duck pond. Geoff liked watching the ducks swim on the lake. Grant and I saw a kid across the way roll right into the duck pond! Gross! Grant thought it was hilarious - he had just been wondering how often people fall in!
We walked over to the train station and then around the lake and back to our car. We drove to another section of the park where Geoffrey got to play on the swings - his favorite!
Once it started to get dark we left the park and went to The Counter for dinner. All in all, it was a beautiful day!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Temporarily Standing
Geoff can balance for a few seconds while standing now. Of course, this is a very gradual thing - (is he actually balancing himself or just put there by momentum?)
What's good, though, is that he will usually sort of squat slowly down into a sitting position instead of just fall over. He's good at keeping his balance!
What's good, though, is that he will usually sort of squat slowly down into a sitting position instead of just fall over. He's good at keeping his balance!
Sneezing
Geoffrey is SO CUTE when he sneezes. Have I mentioned this before? He's done this since he was only a couple of moths old. Whenever he sneezes, he looks up at you with a big smile on his face, like sneezing is the funniest surprise in the world.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Diaper CHanges
Diaper changes have become such... fun.
Geoffrey does NOT like to stay on his back - and he rolls over the second you put him down.
Today I decided to change him on the floor. The second I got the diaper off he rolled over and started crawling into the bathoom naked except for his socks. I though, "This is so cute! I should video tape this!" SO he crawls into the bathroom and stands up holding on to the cupboard - and proceeds to pee - right there - on the bathroom floor.
Heh Heh
Well, at least he knows where to go when he has to pee!
Geoffrey does NOT like to stay on his back - and he rolls over the second you put him down.
Today I decided to change him on the floor. The second I got the diaper off he rolled over and started crawling into the bathoom naked except for his socks. I though, "This is so cute! I should video tape this!" SO he crawls into the bathroom and stands up holding on to the cupboard - and proceeds to pee - right there - on the bathroom floor.
Heh Heh
Well, at least he knows where to go when he has to pee!
Geoffrey's First Halloween
For Geoffrey's first Halloween, he dressed as Tigger. We thought that this was an appropriate costume since Geoffrey loves to go "bouncy bouncy!" In fact, we sing the Tigger song for Geoffrey - with a few altered lyrics
The wonderful thing about Geoffrey,
is Geoffrey's a wonderful thing!
His top is made out of rubber,
his bottom is made out of spring!
He's bouncy trouncy bouncy trouncy
fun fun fun fun fun!
And the most wonderful thing about Geoffrey is he's the cutest one!
Heeeeeeeeee's the cutest one!
Geoffrey came to my school on Friday to meet my students. He looked so cute in his costume! My students sang him the firetruck song and take turns looking at him - some of them even held him!
On Saturday, Geoffrey woke up from his nap in time to help us greet some trick or treaters. Everyone thought he was SO CUTE!
Then we went over to Nonna and Grandpa Gary's and Uncle Blake's house. Geoff helped Nonna pass out candy, and Angie came by with Andrew dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow and Cori dressed as Tinkerbell.
Finally, we went over to Grandpa Bob and Grandma DeeDee's house to play some more!
You had lots of fun on your first Halloween!
The wonderful thing about Geoffrey,
is Geoffrey's a wonderful thing!
His top is made out of rubber,
his bottom is made out of spring!
He's bouncy trouncy bouncy trouncy
fun fun fun fun fun!
And the most wonderful thing about Geoffrey is he's the cutest one!
Heeeeeeeeee's the cutest one!
Geoffrey came to my school on Friday to meet my students. He looked so cute in his costume! My students sang him the firetruck song and take turns looking at him - some of them even held him!
On Saturday, Geoffrey woke up from his nap in time to help us greet some trick or treaters. Everyone thought he was SO CUTE!
Then we went over to Nonna and Grandpa Gary's and Uncle Blake's house. Geoff helped Nonna pass out candy, and Angie came by with Andrew dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow and Cori dressed as Tinkerbell.
Finally, we went over to Grandpa Bob and Grandma DeeDee's house to play some more!
You had lots of fun on your first Halloween!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Geoffrey's first cold
So Geoffrey got his first cold last week. He started with a runny nose, and being more tired then usual. Then last Monday, Oct. 5th, he got a fever. The highest it got was 101.5 and it lasted for two days. Now he is fine again - except for that snotty nose!!! Overall, though, he seemed in a really good mood - he handled it very well! When he felt really bad, be would want to be held, of course, and be a little needier then usual, but in general, his mood didn't change a whole lot. What a happy boy!
So behind 7 1/2 monts
I am so behind on Geoff's blog! He is 7 1/2 months now. He is still crawling around everywhere, and loves to pull himself up to standing anywhere and everywhere. He loves to explore. He is not quite cruising yet.
His sleep is doing well, overall. He is sleeping most nights from about midnight to about 11 AM on average. However, he seems to wake up once or twice a night and cry for about 30 minutes or so. He still has trouble calming himself back to sleep. We think this is related to his changing positions at night. He will roll into a sit up position and sort of get "stuck," because he is too tired to really remember how to lay back down. Sometimes, if we catch it quickly, he'll go right back to sleep, but many nights it is enough to wake him enough that he has trouble settling back into sleep.
His napping is sort of better. It is now really obvious when it is time for him to nap. In fact, on weekdays, he'll be playing happily and then when he's ready for a nap, he climbs up onto Grant's lap to tell him he is ready for his nap. Grant will read to him, sing to him, and then put him in his crib and he'll fall right asleep. Some naps aren't quite as easy, but he usually goes to sleep within 15 minutes now. His naps are still super short - 45 minutes is average - although the other day he took a 3 hour nap - VERY unusual for him! He usually naps about 3 hours after he last woke up - and still takes that third nap many days. Sometimes he sneaks in a cap nap while I am feeding him and that sort of recharges him for the evening.
He is still not very interested in solids. We try feeding him 2 or 3 times a day. He usually has a bite or two and then he is over it. He has had bananas, pears, apples, oranges, broccolli, squash, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, mangoes, avocado... but he doesn't show interest in anything, really. We put a scoop of cereal in each of his bottles so he gets some iron that way. We'll keep trying!
Geoff had his last Dr.s appointment on Sep. 17th. He had 3 shots this time, Including a flu shot. He weighed 18 pounds, one ounce (50th percentile), and was 28 1/4 inches long (90th percentile).
His napping is sort of better. It is now really obvious when it is time for him to nap. In fact, on weekdays, he'll be playing happily and then when he's ready for a nap, he climbs up onto Grant's lap to tell him he is ready for his nap. Grant will read to him, sing to him, and then put him in his crib and he'll fall right asleep. Some naps aren't quite as easy, but he usually goes to sleep within 15 minutes now. His naps are still super short - 45 minutes is average - although the other day he took a 3 hour nap - VERY unusual for him! He usually naps about 3 hours after he last woke up - and still takes that third nap many days. Sometimes he sneaks in a cap nap while I am feeding him and that sort of recharges him for the evening.
He is still not very interested in solids. We try feeding him 2 or 3 times a day. He usually has a bite or two and then he is over it. He has had bananas, pears, apples, oranges, broccolli, squash, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, mangoes, avocado... but he doesn't show interest in anything, really. We put a scoop of cereal in each of his bottles so he gets some iron that way. We'll keep trying!
Geoff had his last Dr.s appointment on Sep. 17th. He had 3 shots this time, Including a flu shot. He weighed 18 pounds, one ounce (50th percentile), and was 28 1/4 inches long (90th percentile).
Thursday, September 17, 2009
6 months old!!!!
Geoffrey Geoffrey Geoffrey - what a month it has been!!!! Where to start with all of your changes???
Development:
When we left on vacation in August, you could barely sit up - and only if I put you in the sitting position. Now you are the sitting up pro! In Florida, you learned how to sit yourself up. You learned how to get pretty much anywhere you wanted to go by rolling over, sitting up, laying back down, and rolling some more. Very creative! All of a sudden, we needed to figure out where you were going next!
By the time we were home, you had become an expert at the whole sitting up thing - you didn't even need to support yourself with your hands - you could sit up and play with toys and keep your balance - most of the time! And within two days of getting home - you were crawling! We knew it was coming soon, they way you'd rock back and forth on your hands and knees - you just needed to figure out how to get them to move in opposite motions. The first time you crawled it was a total accident - I had left the room and you were upset. When I came back in, I said, "Geoff! What is wrong? I am right here!" And in a fit of tears you storm - crawled across the floor to get to me. I don't think you quite realized you had even done it! Now, of course, you are an expert at crawling - maing it necessary for us to get a gate to avoid you eating all of the tv wires or getting into other unintentional trouble. You are so amazing with how fast you are learning!
Teeth
Also, unbelievably - you got two teeth on the cruise! I remember that first tooth - I put my finger in your mouth and felt that little white bump and thought - oh, wow, my little boy is getting so big! And you were so brave, too. You had a couple of periods where you would cry and scream, but only for a little bit - sometimes we gave you tylenol and sometimes we just let you work it out - but you did so well. I was very proud of you. When that 2nd tooth popped up only two days later I was surprised. Although you had the screaming period again, all in all, it wasn't that bad - you certainly weren't fussy for hours and hours. Now you have two sharp little teeth - please don't bite mommy with them!
Sounds and Speech
You are doing well with your babbling - you love to say dadadadadada - and you throw other consonants in there as well, but /d/ is still your favorite. You also have the cutest laugh and giggle. But you have another sound right now that you like a lot - it is sort of a tongue clicking sound - you sort of smack your tongue off of the top of your mouth over and over again - sort of like you're practicing that chewing motion. You also like to roll the spit in your mouth - sort of like rolling an /r/ sound. Another sound you like to make is an exaggerated, quick, inhale - silly boy! Finally you still like to do that gentle, hissing /th/ sound, especially in the morning when I'm changing your first diaper.
Sleep
On vacation, you got totally spoiled. At WDW, we were so tired, that I fed you just to help you go back to sleep quickly - not good, because I was interrupting your sleep and not letting you learn to fall asleep on your own. By the cruise, all bets were off, and you were finishing each night in bed with us, snacking whenever you wanted.
Needless to say, I was a little worried about when we got home - having to sleep train you all over again- but you adjusted very quickly! The first few ights it took you about a hlf an hour to fall back asleep when you woke up, but after only a few nights you were quickly soothing yourself to sleep. Also, you delayed your night feeding quickly and in less then a week you were down to one feeding, again. Now, you have even gone a few nights with no feedings at all!!!!
Your daytime naps are still pretty bad though - you have never been good at sleeping during the day - it takes you forever to fall asleep - and sometime you cry and cry. You like to sneak in cat naps whie you're eating - and they'll energize you enough to not want to take a real nap.
Eating
Your spitting up is pretty much all done! Yeah! You still have no interest in solids. You tolerate it for a few bites, but you're great at clamping that mouth closed when you're over it - which is usually pretty quickly. You have tried peas, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples, bananas, and avocado, along with rice cereal and mixed cereal. You have shown interest in citrus, however - pineapple, oranges.... we discovered this while you were teething - sucking on citrus fruits seemed to calm / distract you.
Well, Mr. Geofferson, you sure are growing up quickly. We love you so much. I treasure every moment I have with you, my beautiful, silly, amazing, wonderful boy!
Development:
When we left on vacation in August, you could barely sit up - and only if I put you in the sitting position. Now you are the sitting up pro! In Florida, you learned how to sit yourself up. You learned how to get pretty much anywhere you wanted to go by rolling over, sitting up, laying back down, and rolling some more. Very creative! All of a sudden, we needed to figure out where you were going next!
By the time we were home, you had become an expert at the whole sitting up thing - you didn't even need to support yourself with your hands - you could sit up and play with toys and keep your balance - most of the time! And within two days of getting home - you were crawling! We knew it was coming soon, they way you'd rock back and forth on your hands and knees - you just needed to figure out how to get them to move in opposite motions. The first time you crawled it was a total accident - I had left the room and you were upset. When I came back in, I said, "Geoff! What is wrong? I am right here!" And in a fit of tears you storm - crawled across the floor to get to me. I don't think you quite realized you had even done it! Now, of course, you are an expert at crawling - maing it necessary for us to get a gate to avoid you eating all of the tv wires or getting into other unintentional trouble. You are so amazing with how fast you are learning!
Teeth
Also, unbelievably - you got two teeth on the cruise! I remember that first tooth - I put my finger in your mouth and felt that little white bump and thought - oh, wow, my little boy is getting so big! And you were so brave, too. You had a couple of periods where you would cry and scream, but only for a little bit - sometimes we gave you tylenol and sometimes we just let you work it out - but you did so well. I was very proud of you. When that 2nd tooth popped up only two days later I was surprised. Although you had the screaming period again, all in all, it wasn't that bad - you certainly weren't fussy for hours and hours. Now you have two sharp little teeth - please don't bite mommy with them!
Sounds and Speech
You are doing well with your babbling - you love to say dadadadadada - and you throw other consonants in there as well, but /d/ is still your favorite. You also have the cutest laugh and giggle. But you have another sound right now that you like a lot - it is sort of a tongue clicking sound - you sort of smack your tongue off of the top of your mouth over and over again - sort of like you're practicing that chewing motion. You also like to roll the spit in your mouth - sort of like rolling an /r/ sound. Another sound you like to make is an exaggerated, quick, inhale - silly boy! Finally you still like to do that gentle, hissing /th/ sound, especially in the morning when I'm changing your first diaper.
Sleep
On vacation, you got totally spoiled. At WDW, we were so tired, that I fed you just to help you go back to sleep quickly - not good, because I was interrupting your sleep and not letting you learn to fall asleep on your own. By the cruise, all bets were off, and you were finishing each night in bed with us, snacking whenever you wanted.
Needless to say, I was a little worried about when we got home - having to sleep train you all over again- but you adjusted very quickly! The first few ights it took you about a hlf an hour to fall back asleep when you woke up, but after only a few nights you were quickly soothing yourself to sleep. Also, you delayed your night feeding quickly and in less then a week you were down to one feeding, again. Now, you have even gone a few nights with no feedings at all!!!!
Your daytime naps are still pretty bad though - you have never been good at sleeping during the day - it takes you forever to fall asleep - and sometime you cry and cry. You like to sneak in cat naps whie you're eating - and they'll energize you enough to not want to take a real nap.
Eating
Your spitting up is pretty much all done! Yeah! You still have no interest in solids. You tolerate it for a few bites, but you're great at clamping that mouth closed when you're over it - which is usually pretty quickly. You have tried peas, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples, bananas, and avocado, along with rice cereal and mixed cereal. You have shown interest in citrus, however - pineapple, oranges.... we discovered this while you were teething - sucking on citrus fruits seemed to calm / distract you.
Well, Mr. Geofferson, you sure are growing up quickly. We love you so much. I treasure every moment I have with you, my beautiful, silly, amazing, wonderful boy!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Geoffrey in Florida
Geoffrey is doing so well in Florida! The first night, he woke up a few times - none of us slept very well. However, the next two nights he slept from midnight until 6:30 (waking once but falling asleep within 15 minutes) eating at 6:30, and then sleeping until 10:30 - 11:00. What a good boy!
He is getting much better with his sitting up! He can start to correct himself if he begins to lose his balance sometimes!
We lucked out on our first day because we found a lady on craig's list who is moving. We bought a play mat/gym, an exersaucer, and a shopping cart cover for $35. This is nice because Geoff can play and stretch after long days in his stroller!
He is getting much better with his sitting up! He can start to correct himself if he begins to lose his balance sometimes!
We lucked out on our first day because we found a lady on craig's list who is moving. We bought a play mat/gym, an exersaucer, and a shopping cart cover for $35. This is nice because Geoff can play and stretch after long days in his stroller!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Last Night
Last night went so much better!!!
Yesterday, I made an extra concentrated effort to feed Geoffrey enough. When he stopped, I didn't give up (most of the time.) Also, he seemed tired a lot, and I took advantage of his more tired, down times, to feed him. Finally, I just settled in for an hour of feeding most times to combat his activity.
I fed him solids twice, sweet potatoes in the morning and apples in the afternoon. He still does not seem to like apples, even mixed with rice cereal. It is the only different reaction I've seen to feeding him any kind of food - he sticks out his tongue and lets it drip out - he doesn't even try to eat it. (Yet, the other day he grabbed a lemon out of my water, and as we waited and watched for what we were sure would be an amusing reaction, he just happily licked it / put it in his mouth, with no sour face at all!)
For his last feeding, we were going to try a bottle mixed with rice cereal (1 tablespoon of cereal to 8 ounces of milk). He was so hyper and so full of energy, he would not sit still for the bottle. He wasn't fussy or hungry (in which case I think he would have taken the bottle). He had just nursed for an hour and had some solids. I was just trying to cluster feed / tank him up. He was at that last big burst of energy before bedtime. So, he wouldn't take the bottle, but he would nurse from me (it helped him calm down), so I went ahead and nursed him.
He fell asleep and woke up 7 1/2 hours later to eat! Huzzah!!! Then he slept for two more hours. So hopefully think means my hunch was correct, and he was not eating enough during the day. Hopefully this plan continues to work!
At WDW - we can spend lots of time in the baby care center, or we can do lots of smaller feeds more often (15 minute feeds every 2 hours or so). This has worked for us in the past, and can work well if we're, say, watching shows at the parks.
I feel better. I know it is only one day - but it is amazing what a nice long chunk of sleep will do for you!!!!
*´¨)
¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´*Bobbi Jo*
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Yesterday, I made an extra concentrated effort to feed Geoffrey enough. When he stopped, I didn't give up (most of the time.) Also, he seemed tired a lot, and I took advantage of his more tired, down times, to feed him. Finally, I just settled in for an hour of feeding most times to combat his activity.
I fed him solids twice, sweet potatoes in the morning and apples in the afternoon. He still does not seem to like apples, even mixed with rice cereal. It is the only different reaction I've seen to feeding him any kind of food - he sticks out his tongue and lets it drip out - he doesn't even try to eat it. (Yet, the other day he grabbed a lemon out of my water, and as we waited and watched for what we were sure would be an amusing reaction, he just happily licked it / put it in his mouth, with no sour face at all!)
For his last feeding, we were going to try a bottle mixed with rice cereal (1 tablespoon of cereal to 8 ounces of milk). He was so hyper and so full of energy, he would not sit still for the bottle. He wasn't fussy or hungry (in which case I think he would have taken the bottle). He had just nursed for an hour and had some solids. I was just trying to cluster feed / tank him up. He was at that last big burst of energy before bedtime. So, he wouldn't take the bottle, but he would nurse from me (it helped him calm down), so I went ahead and nursed him.
He fell asleep and woke up 7 1/2 hours later to eat! Huzzah!!! Then he slept for two more hours. So hopefully think means my hunch was correct, and he was not eating enough during the day. Hopefully this plan continues to work!
At WDW - we can spend lots of time in the baby care center, or we can do lots of smaller feeds more often (15 minute feeds every 2 hours or so). This has worked for us in the past, and can work well if we're, say, watching shows at the parks.
I feel better. I know it is only one day - but it is amazing what a nice long chunk of sleep will do for you!!!!
*´¨)
¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´*Bobbi Jo*
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Saturday, August 8, 2009
Tough Night
Geoff is still not doing well at night. He has been waking up 3 times for the last week or so. Ferberizing doesn't seem to help. Pushing off feedings doesn't seem to help. Last night, I fed him twice. Bad mommy? Maybe - but it is not like we haven't tried the other methods for a week. I am just too tired today.
I think I am going to start over, from the beginning, with ferberizing. 5 minutes, then increase. 3 hours between meals, then increase.
And I HAVE to find a way to get this kid to focus and eat more during the day. He did awful yesterday with his feedings.
For the most part, though, I am not stressed about Florida. We have a condo at WDW, so his crying won't wake anyone up, and we can continue working on the problem. WE don't need to go to the parks all day, so if we're tired and go just for the afternoon / evening, then that is fine. The cruise is a little worrisome - he can't just cry at night there (thank goodness mom and bobby are on one side of us!) but that is still weeks away, so who knows what will be happening then. With any kind of luck, the motion of the ocean will help him sleep, as many others have reported.
I think I am going to start over, from the beginning, with ferberizing. 5 minutes, then increase. 3 hours between meals, then increase.
And I HAVE to find a way to get this kid to focus and eat more during the day. He did awful yesterday with his feedings.
For the most part, though, I am not stressed about Florida. We have a condo at WDW, so his crying won't wake anyone up, and we can continue working on the problem. WE don't need to go to the parks all day, so if we're tired and go just for the afternoon / evening, then that is fine. The cruise is a little worrisome - he can't just cry at night there (thank goodness mom and bobby are on one side of us!) but that is still weeks away, so who knows what will be happening then. With any kind of luck, the motion of the ocean will help him sleep, as many others have reported.
Friday, August 7, 2009
5 1/2 Month Dr. Visit
On Tuesday, Geoffrey had his 5 1/2 month doctor visit. Geoffrey looks healthy and is doing well. Dr. Chang said that if he rolls over at night and we see when we check on him, then we should put him back, but it is ok if he rolls back over again.
He grew an inch - and is now 27 1/2 inches long (90th percentile), but he only gained 2 1/2 ounces (16 11 1/2) which puts him at the 50th percentile for his weight. This was a little concerning, but I know he hasn't been eating well since he gets so distracted lately. This is similar to what happened 2 months ago. I just need to make sure Geoffrey eats for a good 10 minutes on each side - which is proving to be easier said then done, but it's our goal.
Geoffrey had two shots today. They were given by a new nurse who is training. WHen it was time to get ready for the first one, I had his hands, Grant was dangling a toy, and Nurse Florence, who was supervising the new nurse, was making funny noises. Geoff thought all of this attention was great! When the nurse put his shot in, Geoffrey looked down at it, and smiled. SMILED! What? We all busted out laughing! Nurse Florence was like, "Geoffrey! You never do that for me! My ego is hurt!" Shot number two didn't earn a smile - in fact a look like he was going to cry passed over his face for a brief instant - but all of our attention kept him happy. It was the best shot experience ever! Nurse Florence was laughing about this 10 minutes later while we were checking out!!!
His next visit will be Sep. 17th - he'll be almost 7 months, and that's when he'll get his 6 month vaccinations.
He grew an inch - and is now 27 1/2 inches long (90th percentile), but he only gained 2 1/2 ounces (16 11 1/2) which puts him at the 50th percentile for his weight. This was a little concerning, but I know he hasn't been eating well since he gets so distracted lately. This is similar to what happened 2 months ago. I just need to make sure Geoffrey eats for a good 10 minutes on each side - which is proving to be easier said then done, but it's our goal.
Geoffrey had two shots today. They were given by a new nurse who is training. WHen it was time to get ready for the first one, I had his hands, Grant was dangling a toy, and Nurse Florence, who was supervising the new nurse, was making funny noises. Geoff thought all of this attention was great! When the nurse put his shot in, Geoffrey looked down at it, and smiled. SMILED! What? We all busted out laughing! Nurse Florence was like, "Geoffrey! You never do that for me! My ego is hurt!" Shot number two didn't earn a smile - in fact a look like he was going to cry passed over his face for a brief instant - but all of our attention kept him happy. It was the best shot experience ever! Nurse Florence was laughing about this 10 minutes later while we were checking out!!!
His next visit will be Sep. 17th - he'll be almost 7 months, and that's when he'll get his 6 month vaccinations.
New Stuff
Geoffrey tried applesauce yesterday - He didn't seem to like it at all. It was not mixed with rice cereal, so the flavor was probably very strong for him. He certainly does not seem to love solids at this point. He is pretty much indifferent.
Today, we introduced water in a sippy cup. Of course, he just sort of looked at me like I was odd while water dribbled out of the side of his mouth (o:
For now, when I am giving it to him, I take the valve out so the water comes out easier - but then I just leave it with his toys so he can play and then I put the valve in. Fun times!
Today, we introduced water in a sippy cup. Of course, he just sort of looked at me like I was odd while water dribbled out of the side of his mouth (o:
For now, when I am giving it to him, I take the valve out so the water comes out easier - but then I just leave it with his toys so he can play and then I put the valve in. Fun times!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Camping
We just returned from a camping trip at Lake Edison.
On Sunday, Angie, Andrew, Cori, and Andrew's friend AJ, and Grant, Geoffrey, and I drove to Fresno. We ate at John's Incredible Pizza, and then spent the night at a Marriott Residence Inn. The next day, we drove up to the campground. The last 18 miles heads up over the Kaiser Pass on a one lane road that I thought was pretty scary. It took an hour and a half to travel those last 18 miles. Poor Geoffrey's ears hurt!
The campground was beautiful. They had two sites reserved for us (Gary and Belle drove up on Monday and met us at the Marriott.) The sites were both in a small valley, so it was like we had one big campsite.
We spent our days walking around, playing, and relaxing. We found two geocaches - one at our camp site and one across the lake. We went swimming in the lake (which we estimated to be high 50s/low 60s). Angie brought a telescope and we went down to the lake to stargaze.
Geoff did very well - as Grandpa Gary said, he was a happy camper! He slept in his pack n play for most of the night, but once the sun came up, he slept with mommy and daddy under the sleeping bag. He loved being in the carrier and walking around!
Of course - there was the bear visit! A bear broke the window on our van and got away with some of our dry food goods! I didn't hear it, but poor Angie did - didn't exactly make for a good night's sleep!
Camping dinners are, of course, yummy. We had hamburgers and hotdogs, beef stew, chicken and dumplings, and pot roast. We also had campfire pie, finally, which everyone agreed was a hit! (We used apples and blueberries.)
We camped for five nights, and drove home on Saturday. We followed eachother down the mountain, and then separated. Grant and I had to stop a few times to adjust the tarp that was covering the back broken window, and to feed Geoffrey. We ate at The Elephant Bar - so yummy! I would LOVE if they opened one closer to us!
All in all, we had a great vacation! I love summer! I love Grant! I love Geoff! I love Belle!
On Sunday, Angie, Andrew, Cori, and Andrew's friend AJ, and Grant, Geoffrey, and I drove to Fresno. We ate at John's Incredible Pizza, and then spent the night at a Marriott Residence Inn. The next day, we drove up to the campground. The last 18 miles heads up over the Kaiser Pass on a one lane road that I thought was pretty scary. It took an hour and a half to travel those last 18 miles. Poor Geoffrey's ears hurt!
The campground was beautiful. They had two sites reserved for us (Gary and Belle drove up on Monday and met us at the Marriott.) The sites were both in a small valley, so it was like we had one big campsite.
We spent our days walking around, playing, and relaxing. We found two geocaches - one at our camp site and one across the lake. We went swimming in the lake (which we estimated to be high 50s/low 60s). Angie brought a telescope and we went down to the lake to stargaze.
Geoff did very well - as Grandpa Gary said, he was a happy camper! He slept in his pack n play for most of the night, but once the sun came up, he slept with mommy and daddy under the sleeping bag. He loved being in the carrier and walking around!
Of course - there was the bear visit! A bear broke the window on our van and got away with some of our dry food goods! I didn't hear it, but poor Angie did - didn't exactly make for a good night's sleep!
Camping dinners are, of course, yummy. We had hamburgers and hotdogs, beef stew, chicken and dumplings, and pot roast. We also had campfire pie, finally, which everyone agreed was a hit! (We used apples and blueberries.)
We camped for five nights, and drove home on Saturday. We followed eachother down the mountain, and then separated. Grant and I had to stop a few times to adjust the tarp that was covering the back broken window, and to feed Geoffrey. We ate at The Elephant Bar - so yummy! I would LOVE if they opened one closer to us!
All in all, we had a great vacation! I love summer! I love Grant! I love Geoff! I love Belle!
More Geoffrey Updates / Disneyland
Feeding: Geoffrey can pretty much feed himself a bottle. So cute! As for solids, he has now had bananas (on the camping trip and then on the Sunday we got back) and he had peas on Friday. He pretty much treats all solids the same - he doesn't love them or hate them. I guess he shows a slight preference to bananas - but he really doesn't seem to dislike the peas or anything.
As far as feeding on our upcoming vacation, we're going to continue feeding him just once a day, so that we can continue to introduce new foods, but not to feed him so much that his poop really changes too much, or that he starts to "need" the solids. This way, though, we'll have more foods that we've tried and know that he can tolerate when the time comes that he DOES need solids.
Babbling: After three days of babbling, he's sort of use to his new skill, and it isn't constant now. It has been very hard to catch on video tape. As always, when he sees the camera he just stares at it!
We went to DIsneyland last Wednesday evening. Geoff had his first "aware - scare." We were walking be the matterhorn when the monorail came by and blew its horn - it scared me - made me jump, and I looked down and saw Geoffrey startle, and then look around, and be aware that the horn scared him - so he started to cry. Poor guy!
Sleep! Well, things have been much better in the sleep department. We started delaying that first feeding by 30 miuntes each night. If he wakes up before his feeding time, we ferberize. Lately, he has been waking up once too early and falling back to sleep in 10 - 30 minutes later (the first night it took an hour and a half!) Then he wakes up a 2nd time to eat, and sleeps a total of 11 - 13 hours. Last night, for example, he went to bed at 10, woke up at 2:30, fell asleep at 2:45, woke up at 7 to eat, and then woke up at 10, happily, ready to start the day,
When he sleeps at least 11 hours at night, he does better during the day, too - napping for longer and napping only twice. He is also much happier and much less fussy. We feel really good about the way things are going now!!!!
I know I need to just trust my instincts with this stuff, but it is so hard when I am tired!!!! When I am tired, I doubt myself the most. But Geoff does well on long night sleep, and even his daytime sleep is better!
His schedule is something like this:
10: Wake Up
11: Eat
1: Nap
2: Eat
4: Nap
5: Eat
8:Eat
10: Eat
10:30 Bed
2: Wake up for 20 minutes
AM Feeding (4 - 7 - very variable for now)
As far as feeding on our upcoming vacation, we're going to continue feeding him just once a day, so that we can continue to introduce new foods, but not to feed him so much that his poop really changes too much, or that he starts to "need" the solids. This way, though, we'll have more foods that we've tried and know that he can tolerate when the time comes that he DOES need solids.
Babbling: After three days of babbling, he's sort of use to his new skill, and it isn't constant now. It has been very hard to catch on video tape. As always, when he sees the camera he just stares at it!
We went to DIsneyland last Wednesday evening. Geoff had his first "aware - scare." We were walking be the matterhorn when the monorail came by and blew its horn - it scared me - made me jump, and I looked down and saw Geoffrey startle, and then look around, and be aware that the horn scared him - so he started to cry. Poor guy!
Sleep! Well, things have been much better in the sleep department. We started delaying that first feeding by 30 miuntes each night. If he wakes up before his feeding time, we ferberize. Lately, he has been waking up once too early and falling back to sleep in 10 - 30 minutes later (the first night it took an hour and a half!) Then he wakes up a 2nd time to eat, and sleeps a total of 11 - 13 hours. Last night, for example, he went to bed at 10, woke up at 2:30, fell asleep at 2:45, woke up at 7 to eat, and then woke up at 10, happily, ready to start the day,
When he sleeps at least 11 hours at night, he does better during the day, too - napping for longer and napping only twice. He is also much happier and much less fussy. We feel really good about the way things are going now!!!!
I know I need to just trust my instincts with this stuff, but it is so hard when I am tired!!!! When I am tired, I doubt myself the most. But Geoff does well on long night sleep, and even his daytime sleep is better!
His schedule is something like this:
10: Wake Up
11: Eat
1: Nap
2: Eat
4: Nap
5: Eat
8:Eat
10: Eat
10:30 Bed
2: Wake up for 20 minutes
AM Feeding (4 - 7 - very variable for now)
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Development Update - 5 Months
Last week during our camping trip, Geoff turned 5 months old!
Sleep: Well, sleep is sort of a prickly issue right now. Prior to our camping trip, we were trying to to cut down on Geoff's night feedings. Since Geoff sleeps around 11 hours at night, we decided that one feeding, at this age, was not unreasonable, but two feedings was a bit much. We started by pushing the first feeding back by 30 minutes each night - but he was very ready for it and it was rarely a problem. He was going to bed at around midnight, waking around 7 or 8 to eat, and then sleeping until 10 or 11.
As the camping trip approached, we started putting him to bed a half an hour earlier each night. During the camping trip, he would go to bed at around 10, wake up around 2 to eat, and wake up around 5 again when the sun started coming up. At that point, I'd bring him into bed with me and he'd sleep/nurse until around 7:30 - 8.
Now that we're back, things have been wacky. I knew that it would take some adjustment, of course - but he's been waking 2 or sometimes 3 times a night. Some wakings are not food related at all - I mean, waking up two hours after his last feeding? Part of it is me - I thought if I got him out of bed after the 2nd time he woke up, he would eventually start stretching out his sleep - you know, he'd get tired and sleep longer. It is always that debate for me - if he wakes up after, say, 9 hours of sleep, do I keep the room dark, feed him, and put him back down knowing he'll sleep more? Or do I start his day then? Well, big mistake on my part - he definately needs to go back down. The two days I got him up, he was cranky all day. So now, I am back to making sure he sleeps at LEAST 10 hours, and I am just going to work on pushing that first feeding back in 30 minute increments like I did before the camping trip. It worked well, so I don;t know why I didn't do that this time - except that the "average" 5 month old sleeps about 9 1/2 hours at night and I was afraid I was being selfish by putting him back down so that I could get more sleep, too. Turns out, my kid just does better with night time sleep. Well - look at his parents.... (o:
So, I'll update you on the sleep situation later. FOr now, the plan is to aim for a 9 AM wake up time, to move to an 8 AM wake up time next week so that our travel day to Florida won't be to off schedule for him (and then he'll adjust easier to waking up at 10 on Eastern time, too.) IN addition, I plan to push back his first feeding by 30 minutes each night in an effort to get back down to one feeding.
Motor Development: Geoffrey is quite the wiggle butt. He LOVES kicking those legs, and he's quite good at rolling over and roating on his blanket to get new toys. He LOVES his exersaucer now and can balance in it quite well, as well as purposefully use the toys on it. He is sometimes quite focused and intent on what he is doing. He is getting good at turning the pages of the little electronic book on his exersaucer, and tries this skill with his board books, too. He can sit by himself for short periods when you prop him into the tripod sitting position (with his arms on the ground in front of him.) He did this for the first time on the campout. Also, since we've been back, he's become quite the crib gymnast - when we put him down for a nap, if he's overtired (which happened often between my dumb-ass getting him up earlier and adjusting to being home from the camping trip) he'll cry a lot and when we check on him, he'll be on his stomach, rotated 180 degrees, etc. etc. Fun fun fun (cute and funny, as long as I don't worry about his little hands and feet getting caught between the crib bars!!!!)
Speech: This has been the biggest thing... all of a sudden (literally, overnight) Geoff has started babbling with consonants! We drove home from camping on Saturday, and nothing. On Sunday, it is bababadadadablablabla all the time! He is so enamored with his new ability that he does it when he's happy and when he's sad - instead of just crying, he'll cry and babble at the same time! For three days, it was almost constant babbling (unless, of course, I pulled out the video camera). He even wakes himself up at night babbling - practicing in his sleep (which also probably contributes to the new sleep problems. Now that he is more use to it, he doesn't do it quite as often - but it is so cute!
I can tell we're gearing up for the next 6 months - sitting, crawling, standing, walking.... he is developing so quickly!!!!
Sleep: Well, sleep is sort of a prickly issue right now. Prior to our camping trip, we were trying to to cut down on Geoff's night feedings. Since Geoff sleeps around 11 hours at night, we decided that one feeding, at this age, was not unreasonable, but two feedings was a bit much. We started by pushing the first feeding back by 30 minutes each night - but he was very ready for it and it was rarely a problem. He was going to bed at around midnight, waking around 7 or 8 to eat, and then sleeping until 10 or 11.
As the camping trip approached, we started putting him to bed a half an hour earlier each night. During the camping trip, he would go to bed at around 10, wake up around 2 to eat, and wake up around 5 again when the sun started coming up. At that point, I'd bring him into bed with me and he'd sleep/nurse until around 7:30 - 8.
Now that we're back, things have been wacky. I knew that it would take some adjustment, of course - but he's been waking 2 or sometimes 3 times a night. Some wakings are not food related at all - I mean, waking up two hours after his last feeding? Part of it is me - I thought if I got him out of bed after the 2nd time he woke up, he would eventually start stretching out his sleep - you know, he'd get tired and sleep longer. It is always that debate for me - if he wakes up after, say, 9 hours of sleep, do I keep the room dark, feed him, and put him back down knowing he'll sleep more? Or do I start his day then? Well, big mistake on my part - he definately needs to go back down. The two days I got him up, he was cranky all day. So now, I am back to making sure he sleeps at LEAST 10 hours, and I am just going to work on pushing that first feeding back in 30 minute increments like I did before the camping trip. It worked well, so I don;t know why I didn't do that this time - except that the "average" 5 month old sleeps about 9 1/2 hours at night and I was afraid I was being selfish by putting him back down so that I could get more sleep, too. Turns out, my kid just does better with night time sleep. Well - look at his parents.... (o:
So, I'll update you on the sleep situation later. FOr now, the plan is to aim for a 9 AM wake up time, to move to an 8 AM wake up time next week so that our travel day to Florida won't be to off schedule for him (and then he'll adjust easier to waking up at 10 on Eastern time, too.) IN addition, I plan to push back his first feeding by 30 minutes each night in an effort to get back down to one feeding.
Motor Development: Geoffrey is quite the wiggle butt. He LOVES kicking those legs, and he's quite good at rolling over and roating on his blanket to get new toys. He LOVES his exersaucer now and can balance in it quite well, as well as purposefully use the toys on it. He is sometimes quite focused and intent on what he is doing. He is getting good at turning the pages of the little electronic book on his exersaucer, and tries this skill with his board books, too. He can sit by himself for short periods when you prop him into the tripod sitting position (with his arms on the ground in front of him.) He did this for the first time on the campout. Also, since we've been back, he's become quite the crib gymnast - when we put him down for a nap, if he's overtired (which happened often between my dumb-ass getting him up earlier and adjusting to being home from the camping trip) he'll cry a lot and when we check on him, he'll be on his stomach, rotated 180 degrees, etc. etc. Fun fun fun (cute and funny, as long as I don't worry about his little hands and feet getting caught between the crib bars!!!!)
Speech: This has been the biggest thing... all of a sudden (literally, overnight) Geoff has started babbling with consonants! We drove home from camping on Saturday, and nothing. On Sunday, it is bababadadadablablabla all the time! He is so enamored with his new ability that he does it when he's happy and when he's sad - instead of just crying, he'll cry and babble at the same time! For three days, it was almost constant babbling (unless, of course, I pulled out the video camera). He even wakes himself up at night babbling - practicing in his sleep (which also probably contributes to the new sleep problems. Now that he is more use to it, he doesn't do it quite as often - but it is so cute!
I can tell we're gearing up for the next 6 months - sitting, crawling, standing, walking.... he is developing so quickly!!!!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Babbling
I know I am behind on blogging but I just have to tell you - recently - like yeaterda, Geoffrey has discovered how to make babbling sounds with consonants - ma - du - da - ba ba ba - and today, he is obsessed with this new skill! Whether he is happy or sad, he is babbling!
When he went down for his nap, he cried for five minutes - but cried and bablled at the same time.... "waaaa ba ba ba waaaaaaa ba da da..... cry cry cry wail ....ba ba aaaa" so cute!!!!
When he went down for his nap, he cried for five minutes - but cried and bablled at the same time.... "waaaa ba ba ba waaaaaaa ba da da..... cry cry cry wail ....ba ba aaaa" so cute!!!!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sleep
Ok - The real Ferberizing begins!
Naps - So Geoff is now pretty good about taking naps in his crib. We are out and about a lot, so our goal is one nap a day in his crib, which seems to work well. The other naps he takes in his stroller or car seal, unless we are home.
Night - He's always been really good about falling asleep at night, so no issue there. His current routine is a feeding at 11:30, followed by a book and a song, and then in bed by around 12:15. He usually sleeps until about 10:30 - 11:30 the following day.
Middle of the Night - So here is the new part. Geoff can go 9 - 10 hours without eating, so he only needs to wake up once to eat (if at all.) At this point, I am ok, with one night feeding, but I'd ideally like to eliminate it by Disney World - we'll see though.
So what we're doing is extending the time between feedings - I know he can go 8 hours, he's done it before - but we started with 5 hours. So the first night, I fed him at 11:30, and was not going to feed him again until 4:30. He woke up at 2:30 (He must have known something was up because he never wakes up at 2:30!) So we used the progressive wait approach (Ferberize). We started with 15 minutes, because that's what we're up to a nap time. He cried for 15 minutes - so I went in to tell him I loved him, but I didn't pick him up and I didn't feed him. Next, Grant took the monitor down stairs with him (he was still awake) and came up at 3:05. Geoff was still crying while Grant walked up the stairs, but when Grant reached the door... silence - Geoff had fallen asleep! Grant waited 10 minutes to be sure, but indeed, Geoffrey was asleep. He didn't wake up to eat until 7:00!
Last night, I pushed back the waiting until 5:00 - and he woke up to eat at 5:30. Although we probably could have used the progressive wait method again, and not fed him until later, I didn't because I am ok with feeding him once at this point (and he didn't wake up again until 11:30) and beause I am going to keep pushing it out - tonight, I won't feed him until 5:30 (if he wakes up earlier, etc.)
Camping may throw a kink in it - we certainly can't let him cry at the camp ground in the middle of the night! But once we're back from camping, I'll start again with this and see how far we get by Florida. Since we'll most likely have a condo in Florida, I can still do this and not worry about his crying waking the neighbors (if it gets to that! Last night, we didn't have a middle of the night crying session, so you never know!) Hopefully by the cruise, he'll be sleeping all night - or up for just one feeding!
Naps - So Geoff is now pretty good about taking naps in his crib. We are out and about a lot, so our goal is one nap a day in his crib, which seems to work well. The other naps he takes in his stroller or car seal, unless we are home.
Night - He's always been really good about falling asleep at night, so no issue there. His current routine is a feeding at 11:30, followed by a book and a song, and then in bed by around 12:15. He usually sleeps until about 10:30 - 11:30 the following day.
Middle of the Night - So here is the new part. Geoff can go 9 - 10 hours without eating, so he only needs to wake up once to eat (if at all.) At this point, I am ok, with one night feeding, but I'd ideally like to eliminate it by Disney World - we'll see though.
So what we're doing is extending the time between feedings - I know he can go 8 hours, he's done it before - but we started with 5 hours. So the first night, I fed him at 11:30, and was not going to feed him again until 4:30. He woke up at 2:30 (He must have known something was up because he never wakes up at 2:30!) So we used the progressive wait approach (Ferberize). We started with 15 minutes, because that's what we're up to a nap time. He cried for 15 minutes - so I went in to tell him I loved him, but I didn't pick him up and I didn't feed him. Next, Grant took the monitor down stairs with him (he was still awake) and came up at 3:05. Geoff was still crying while Grant walked up the stairs, but when Grant reached the door... silence - Geoff had fallen asleep! Grant waited 10 minutes to be sure, but indeed, Geoffrey was asleep. He didn't wake up to eat until 7:00!
Last night, I pushed back the waiting until 5:00 - and he woke up to eat at 5:30. Although we probably could have used the progressive wait method again, and not fed him until later, I didn't because I am ok with feeding him once at this point (and he didn't wake up again until 11:30) and beause I am going to keep pushing it out - tonight, I won't feed him until 5:30 (if he wakes up earlier, etc.)
Camping may throw a kink in it - we certainly can't let him cry at the camp ground in the middle of the night! But once we're back from camping, I'll start again with this and see how far we get by Florida. Since we'll most likely have a condo in Florida, I can still do this and not worry about his crying waking the neighbors (if it gets to that! Last night, we didn't have a middle of the night crying session, so you never know!) Hopefully by the cruise, he'll be sleeping all night - or up for just one feeding!
Sweet Potatoes
On Friday, July 10th, Geoffrey started Sweet Potatoes. We mix it in with his rice cereal, for now. He treats it pretty much the same as the rice cereal. He either lets it sit in his mouth, or chews it a bit, before eventually swallowing it. he doesn't spit it out, for the most part, but he does lose interest pretty quickly.
After Geoffrey's appointment we went on bought a food processor and some ice cube trays so we can make our own baby food. We now have 64 frozen cubed portions of sweet potatoes ready for Mr. Geofferson. Thanks, Daddy!
After Geoffrey's appointment we went on bought a food processor and some ice cube trays so we can make our own baby food. We now have 64 frozen cubed portions of sweet potatoes ready for Mr. Geofferson. Thanks, Daddy!
4 1/2 month Doctor Visit
On Thursday, Geoffrey had his next Doctor's visit with Dr. Chang. He did really well. It was nap time, so he fell asleep in the waiting room. For once, we didn't mind a long wait (there were a few newborns who always get priority after lunch) because it enabled Geoff to sleep for about a half an hour. When Dr. Chang came in, he was just ready to wake up, but still dazed enough to not resist too much when she checked his ears and mouth and everything.
He now weighs 16 pounds, 9 ounces, (75th percentile) and he is 26 1/2 inches long (90th percentile). So he is doing really well. Geoffrey's new suggested diet consists of fruits and veggies twice a day, however, this is still just practice. We're supposed to introduce a new fruit or veggie every week so that we can watch for allergies. It is also ok if we choose to skip a day because we're out because he really is not gaining nutrition from it yet.
Also, she says that Geoffrey can certainly go 10 hours without needed to eat now, so I need to get better about letting him go back to sleep without feeding him.
At the end of the visit, Geoffrey got a few more vaccines. Again, having just woken from a nap helped because he was in a pretty good mood. First he had his oral rotovirus vaccine - which he treated like he pretty much treats his food - he let it sit in his mouth without too much swallowing. But it eventually went down. Then he got two shots - PCV and DTAP (which can be painful). He handled these shots well - not getting too too upset. He cried after the first one but was easily distracted from his cries. The second one he cried more, but we could then pick him up right away, so daddy made him feel much better.
This round of vaccines were the same as the vaccines he got 2 months ago at his 2 1/2 month visit. This time, he did seem to have less of an appetite and he slept a lot more for about 2 days, but otherwise he seemed fine.
He now weighs 16 pounds, 9 ounces, (75th percentile) and he is 26 1/2 inches long (90th percentile). So he is doing really well. Geoffrey's new suggested diet consists of fruits and veggies twice a day, however, this is still just practice. We're supposed to introduce a new fruit or veggie every week so that we can watch for allergies. It is also ok if we choose to skip a day because we're out because he really is not gaining nutrition from it yet.
Also, she says that Geoffrey can certainly go 10 hours without needed to eat now, so I need to get better about letting him go back to sleep without feeding him.
At the end of the visit, Geoffrey got a few more vaccines. Again, having just woken from a nap helped because he was in a pretty good mood. First he had his oral rotovirus vaccine - which he treated like he pretty much treats his food - he let it sit in his mouth without too much swallowing. But it eventually went down. Then he got two shots - PCV and DTAP (which can be painful). He handled these shots well - not getting too too upset. He cried after the first one but was easily distracted from his cries. The second one he cried more, but we could then pick him up right away, so daddy made him feel much better.
This round of vaccines were the same as the vaccines he got 2 months ago at his 2 1/2 month visit. This time, he did seem to have less of an appetite and he slept a lot more for about 2 days, but otherwise he seemed fine.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Chip
When we were at Goofy's Kitchen, Chip came up to Geoff and tried to engage him. Geoff had looked at most of the characters with fascination, but this time, h just wouldn't look at Chip. He was too busy staring and smiling... at me! After a few minutes, CHip shrugged and took a pen and wrote on our table cloth "He only has eyes for you...."
Ah... I love my boy.
Ah... I love my boy.
Starting Solids
At Geoff's last visit, Dr. Chang told us to start feeding him rice cereal once he turned four months. She said it was important that he start learning how to eat solids because some babies will get so accustomed to drinking their meals that they won't adjust well when they nutritionally need solids. (I have also read somewhere that at 4 months, babies are still pretty malleable, but that the older they get, the harder it is to change routines.) Basically, solids right now or "dessert" - they are not for nutrition, but for practice.
For some reason that I have not been able to explain clearly, I was resistant to the idea of starting solids yet. I'm sure these contribute - but I don't know if they really explain it: I love breastfeeding, and do not look forward to the day when he won't need it anymore... right now, I know he is getting healthy food, but once he starts eating solids, you never know... the practicality of it - his diapers are easy to deal with and don't smell bad (and, weird as this sounds - I think I am going to miss his newborn - exclusively breastfed diapers...) ... I feel proud of myself that he is so healthy and thriving because of me, and I think in my brain I connected his lower (percentile) weight at his last doctor's visit to the fact that he is only breastfed and she wants him to start solids - so I feel like maybe I am not adequate and he needs more now (instead of at 6 months.) I know many of those reasons are silly, but it was just how I was feeling. (Grant says it is his first step towards moving out and that is why I am so resistant... hee hee)
Anyway, we decided to star solids on July 4th. The main reason was because we have a Doctor's appointment today (July 9) and I figured it was best that we at least attempted it before the doctor visit so we could discuss any issues with Dr. Chang (rather then start after and have to wait a whole month to see Dr. Chang if there ARE issues. Of course, she is great about returning calls, but still. It was a good kick in the pants for me!
We are starting Geoff on rice cereal, and he has had it on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday so far. Even on day one, he didn't spit it out - but he did make the cutest faces and sort of work it around in his mouth before swallowing. He definitely needs to learn how to swallow - I guess that's what this practice is for - but I do think the majority of it ended up in his tummy. (I guess I was thinking he might just spit it out completely, showing that he wasn't ready for solids yet - but alas - he did not.) On Sunday he started crying after about two bites, but the rest of the time he ate more.
We are starting out with 2 tablespoons of rice cereal mixed with an ounce of breast milk once a day, and he eats about half of it. We'll see what Dr. Chang says, but after about a week, we'll probably up it to twice a day.
My little boy is growing up!
For some reason that I have not been able to explain clearly, I was resistant to the idea of starting solids yet. I'm sure these contribute - but I don't know if they really explain it: I love breastfeeding, and do not look forward to the day when he won't need it anymore... right now, I know he is getting healthy food, but once he starts eating solids, you never know... the practicality of it - his diapers are easy to deal with and don't smell bad (and, weird as this sounds - I think I am going to miss his newborn - exclusively breastfed diapers...) ... I feel proud of myself that he is so healthy and thriving because of me, and I think in my brain I connected his lower (percentile) weight at his last doctor's visit to the fact that he is only breastfed and she wants him to start solids - so I feel like maybe I am not adequate and he needs more now (instead of at 6 months.) I know many of those reasons are silly, but it was just how I was feeling. (Grant says it is his first step towards moving out and that is why I am so resistant... hee hee)
Anyway, we decided to star solids on July 4th. The main reason was because we have a Doctor's appointment today (July 9) and I figured it was best that we at least attempted it before the doctor visit so we could discuss any issues with Dr. Chang (rather then start after and have to wait a whole month to see Dr. Chang if there ARE issues. Of course, she is great about returning calls, but still. It was a good kick in the pants for me!
We are starting Geoff on rice cereal, and he has had it on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday so far. Even on day one, he didn't spit it out - but he did make the cutest faces and sort of work it around in his mouth before swallowing. He definitely needs to learn how to swallow - I guess that's what this practice is for - but I do think the majority of it ended up in his tummy. (I guess I was thinking he might just spit it out completely, showing that he wasn't ready for solids yet - but alas - he did not.) On Sunday he started crying after about two bites, but the rest of the time he ate more.
We are starting out with 2 tablespoons of rice cereal mixed with an ounce of breast milk once a day, and he eats about half of it. We'll see what Dr. Chang says, but after about a week, we'll probably up it to twice a day.
My little boy is growing up!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
20 week thoughts
On Friday, Geoff will be 20 weeks old.
Although he can roll over, he doesn't do it often. He has started playing in his exersaucer for short periods. He loves the toys, but he gets frustrated because he can't balance very well yet.
He works hard to scoot his knees under his body - he might be crawling before we know it! He also likes to "walk" when you hold his hands.
He loves to hold his feet now (and sometimes chew on them) - especially when you are trying to change his diaper.
He laughs a lot now - sometimes you can make him laugh when you tickle him or make silly noises.
He also started this silly slouching trick - when you try to hook him into his car seat - he slouches and scoots down way low - and laughs... It is both annoying and cute - I think he is trying to be funny.
Sleep - his sleep is variable. When he first got back from Vegas, he continued waking up twice at night. Then, he moved to waking up only once - sleeping 5 - 7 hours between feedings. However, this is not consistent - as the last few night he's started waking up again twice.
Although he can roll over, he doesn't do it often. He has started playing in his exersaucer for short periods. He loves the toys, but he gets frustrated because he can't balance very well yet.
He works hard to scoot his knees under his body - he might be crawling before we know it! He also likes to "walk" when you hold his hands.
He loves to hold his feet now (and sometimes chew on them) - especially when you are trying to change his diaper.
He laughs a lot now - sometimes you can make him laugh when you tickle him or make silly noises.
He also started this silly slouching trick - when you try to hook him into his car seat - he slouches and scoots down way low - and laughs... It is both annoying and cute - I think he is trying to be funny.
Sleep - his sleep is variable. When he first got back from Vegas, he continued waking up twice at night. Then, he moved to waking up only once - sleeping 5 - 7 hours between feedings. However, this is not consistent - as the last few night he's started waking up again twice.
Disneyland Trips #8 & #9
Tuesday, June 30th
Grant, Geoff, and I went to Disneyland last Tuesday. It wasn't too crowded. We got there in the afternoon. WE started out at Disneyland, riding Pirates, The Haunted Mansion, and Winnie the Pooh, before heading over to DCA to watch the Electrical Parade. Geoff LOVED the parade. He fell asleep while waiting for it, but woke up to watch it and couldn't stop staring at the bright lights. After the parade, we went back to Disneyland and rode its a small world. On our way out, we hopped on the Flying Dumbos for Geoffrey's first "flight," since there was no line. (I remember repeating my story to Grant about seeing Michael Jackson on the flying dumbos. I'm watching Micheal's memorial as I type this.)
Tuesday, July 7th
We went to Disneyland with Angela, Andrew, and Cori to celebrate Andrew's 10th birthday. We met at Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel and had a yummy buffet brunch. While there, we were visited by Pluto, Fairy Godmother, Chip, Dale, Belle, Balloo, and, of course, Goofy. After lunch, we went over to Disneyland via the monorail. Once there, Angie sat with Geoff while Grant, Cori, Andrew, and I rode Star Tours. After that, Andrew tried to get into Jedi training. Unfortunately, it was VERY crowded and he didn't get picked. He was pretty bummed, so we quickly moved on - after a spin on Buzz Lightyear, Andrew was happy again.
We headed over to DCA so that Andrew could ride Tower of Terror. He rode with Grant while Angie, Cori, Geoffrey and I rode Monster's Inc. Next, we headed over to California Screamin'. Andrew and I rode (and sat in the front!) while Cori and Angie rode the carousel and Grant sat with Geoffers. Then Andrew rode the Maliboomer as a single rider. We all saw It's Tough to be a Bug, next. Then, Grant, Cori, and Geoff went to stake out a bench for the parade while Andrew, Angie, and I went on Tower of Terror.
While we waited for the parade, Angie and Grant went to get dinner (soup in bread bowls) while Cori and Andrew played in the SS Rustworthy. We ate dinner and then watched the Electric Parade. Geoff was so cute. He stared in awe again at the entire parade. When it ended, I handed him to Grant and he fell asleep within a minute. SO CUTE!
We headed back to Disneyland again. Cori slept in the stroller and I carried Geoff in his carrier. Andrew finally got to ride Indiana Jones with Angie and Grant while I sat aith Geoffrey and Cori. Then, Angie, Geoff, Drew, and I rode the Haunted Mansion while Grant sat with Cori and watched Fantasmic. We exited Haunted Mansion just as Fantasmic ended, so instead of dealing with the crowds - Angie and I sat with Geoff and Cori while Grant and Andrew went and rode Splash Mountain and Winnie the Pooh.
All in all, it was a great day. I think Andrew had an awesome birthday!
Grant, Geoff, and I went to Disneyland last Tuesday. It wasn't too crowded. We got there in the afternoon. WE started out at Disneyland, riding Pirates, The Haunted Mansion, and Winnie the Pooh, before heading over to DCA to watch the Electrical Parade. Geoff LOVED the parade. He fell asleep while waiting for it, but woke up to watch it and couldn't stop staring at the bright lights. After the parade, we went back to Disneyland and rode its a small world. On our way out, we hopped on the Flying Dumbos for Geoffrey's first "flight," since there was no line. (I remember repeating my story to Grant about seeing Michael Jackson on the flying dumbos. I'm watching Micheal's memorial as I type this.)
Tuesday, July 7th
We went to Disneyland with Angela, Andrew, and Cori to celebrate Andrew's 10th birthday. We met at Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel and had a yummy buffet brunch. While there, we were visited by Pluto, Fairy Godmother, Chip, Dale, Belle, Balloo, and, of course, Goofy. After lunch, we went over to Disneyland via the monorail. Once there, Angie sat with Geoff while Grant, Cori, Andrew, and I rode Star Tours. After that, Andrew tried to get into Jedi training. Unfortunately, it was VERY crowded and he didn't get picked. He was pretty bummed, so we quickly moved on - after a spin on Buzz Lightyear, Andrew was happy again.
We headed over to DCA so that Andrew could ride Tower of Terror. He rode with Grant while Angie, Cori, Geoffrey and I rode Monster's Inc. Next, we headed over to California Screamin'. Andrew and I rode (and sat in the front!) while Cori and Angie rode the carousel and Grant sat with Geoffers. Then Andrew rode the Maliboomer as a single rider. We all saw It's Tough to be a Bug, next. Then, Grant, Cori, and Geoff went to stake out a bench for the parade while Andrew, Angie, and I went on Tower of Terror.
While we waited for the parade, Angie and Grant went to get dinner (soup in bread bowls) while Cori and Andrew played in the SS Rustworthy. We ate dinner and then watched the Electric Parade. Geoff was so cute. He stared in awe again at the entire parade. When it ended, I handed him to Grant and he fell asleep within a minute. SO CUTE!
We headed back to Disneyland again. Cori slept in the stroller and I carried Geoff in his carrier. Andrew finally got to ride Indiana Jones with Angie and Grant while I sat aith Geoffrey and Cori. Then, Angie, Geoff, Drew, and I rode the Haunted Mansion while Grant sat with Cori and watched Fantasmic. We exited Haunted Mansion just as Fantasmic ended, so instead of dealing with the crowds - Angie and I sat with Geoff and Cori while Grant and Andrew went and rode Splash Mountain and Winnie the Pooh.
All in all, it was a great day. I think Andrew had an awesome birthday!
Monday, July 6, 2009
4th of July
What a fun day we had! Geoff, Grant, Gary, Belle, Lyon and I attended the Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade! We stopped by to see the Mosich's and sat in front of the hotel on PCH and 8th and watched the parade go by. It was a nice spot because it was shady and on the grass - which was good for us and the dogs. True, we didn't have the clearest vantage point of the parade, but I really enjoyed it!
That afternoon, we went over to DOnna and Gary's and had a yummy hot dog bbq followed by some wii. Poor Belle was wigging out from the fireworks (although Lyon couldn't care less!) At nine, we went home and headed up on the roof to watch the fireworks (last year of that for a while - I don't see myself taking a toddler up there!)
After the fireworks, we went back downstairs and watched the Macy's fireworks and Geoffrey played in his exercauser for the first time! Fun! He really liked it!
All in all, it was a very fun day - with lots of first for Geoffrey!
That afternoon, we went over to DOnna and Gary's and had a yummy hot dog bbq followed by some wii. Poor Belle was wigging out from the fireworks (although Lyon couldn't care less!) At nine, we went home and headed up on the roof to watch the fireworks (last year of that for a while - I don't see myself taking a toddler up there!)
After the fireworks, we went back downstairs and watched the Macy's fireworks and Geoffrey played in his exercauser for the first time! Fun! He really liked it!
All in all, it was a very fun day - with lots of first for Geoffrey!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Las Vegas Friday/Sasturday - Heading Home.
This morning we mostly focused on moving. Mom and Bobby went early to check in to the MGM Signature. Grant and I called the bell men and we were assured that they were able to deliver our bags to the Signature for us. (We were checking out of MGM because our deal was over, and the room would be $300 if we wanted to stay one more night.)
Once we checked out, we drove over to Mandalay Bay to try their new buffet - which was really good. They had a diverse offering, and the setting was very tropical. After lunch, we took turns playing in the casino a bit and sitting with Geoffrey in the shopping area. Then we headed up to Lush where we bought incredibly expensive bath bombs to use in the jacuzzi tub that night.
Back at the Signature, we checked in and headed up to our room to await the arrival of our luggage so we could go swimming one more time. Unfortunately, our luggage arrived 3 hours later, and we were unable to swim. Oh well. It was nice just relaxing and spending time with Mom and Bobby. While watching tv, we saw an add for Outback Steakhouse and decided to go there for dinner - we found one off the strip so it wasn't crowded.
Back at the hotel, we said goodnight. Grant, Geoff, and I took a bath in our huge jacuzzi bath tub using one of the bath bombs. Geoffrey LOVES the water, so he enjoyed it!
The next morning, Grant and I checked our stuff with the bellmen and packed up Mom and Bobby's stuff. We went to breakfast at IHOP. As we were pulling in I noticed that if you presented a receipt from the outlet mall across the parking lot from that day, you would get 20% off of the bill. So we sent Grant and Bobby to Carter's to get a $4 clearance onesie for Mr. Geofferson which ended up getting us $8 off our bill.
After breakfast, we went back over to Carter's and did a little more shopping. Then we drove Mom and Bobby to the airport and said goodbye :o(
Grant, Geoff, and I went back to the hotel and got our stuff and headed home. Geoffrey did well for the first two hours, but then he started wailing. I got in the back wit him and fed him a bottle. Between that and me playing with him, he was pretty much fine for the rest of the trip home. We made it back in four hours (only stopping once at a rest stop and once for me to get in the back) and we returned the rental car with time to spare. Mom and Bobby got home at almost the same time we did!
Our first vacation with Geoffrey was awesome! Things I learned:
1) Vegas is not exactly baby friendly. Not all restrooms had changing tables and it was hard to find places to nurse. However, it can be done, and I would do it again.
2) Help is always wonderful!
Once we checked out, we drove over to Mandalay Bay to try their new buffet - which was really good. They had a diverse offering, and the setting was very tropical. After lunch, we took turns playing in the casino a bit and sitting with Geoffrey in the shopping area. Then we headed up to Lush where we bought incredibly expensive bath bombs to use in the jacuzzi tub that night.
Back at the Signature, we checked in and headed up to our room to await the arrival of our luggage so we could go swimming one more time. Unfortunately, our luggage arrived 3 hours later, and we were unable to swim. Oh well. It was nice just relaxing and spending time with Mom and Bobby. While watching tv, we saw an add for Outback Steakhouse and decided to go there for dinner - we found one off the strip so it wasn't crowded.
Back at the hotel, we said goodnight. Grant, Geoff, and I took a bath in our huge jacuzzi bath tub using one of the bath bombs. Geoffrey LOVES the water, so he enjoyed it!
The next morning, Grant and I checked our stuff with the bellmen and packed up Mom and Bobby's stuff. We went to breakfast at IHOP. As we were pulling in I noticed that if you presented a receipt from the outlet mall across the parking lot from that day, you would get 20% off of the bill. So we sent Grant and Bobby to Carter's to get a $4 clearance onesie for Mr. Geofferson which ended up getting us $8 off our bill.
After breakfast, we went back over to Carter's and did a little more shopping. Then we drove Mom and Bobby to the airport and said goodbye :o(
Grant, Geoff, and I went back to the hotel and got our stuff and headed home. Geoffrey did well for the first two hours, but then he started wailing. I got in the back wit him and fed him a bottle. Between that and me playing with him, he was pretty much fine for the rest of the trip home. We made it back in four hours (only stopping once at a rest stop and once for me to get in the back) and we returned the rental car with time to spare. Mom and Bobby got home at almost the same time we did!
Our first vacation with Geoffrey was awesome! Things I learned:
1) Vegas is not exactly baby friendly. Not all restrooms had changing tables and it was hard to find places to nurse. However, it can be done, and I would do it again.
2) Help is always wonderful!
Las Vegas - Thursday
Finally! A break from the MGM buffet. Today, we went to eat at Le Village Buffet at Paris. When we arrived, I tried to find a bathroom with a changing table (the one next to the lobby) while Mom, Bobby, and Grant paid. I got back just as we were seated.
Wile we were eating, Grant got the text that Michael Jackson had had a heart attack, and then that he died. I couldn't believe it! I was really in shock. Poor MJ. All the money in the world and he couldn't get the help he needed. Sounds like so many celebrities I know of...
After lunch, we headed back to the hotel, enjoying a stroll down the strip. It wasn't too hot most of the time. Back at the hotel, we watched some of the Michael Jackson footage, and Mom and Bobby got ready to see Ka. While they were at the show, we did some packing. We met them down in the casino after their show was over and we walked to Fat Burger for dinner, enjoying a nice evening on the strip, and taking some pictures. It was a pretty relaxing day.
Wile we were eating, Grant got the text that Michael Jackson had had a heart attack, and then that he died. I couldn't believe it! I was really in shock. Poor MJ. All the money in the world and he couldn't get the help he needed. Sounds like so many celebrities I know of...
After lunch, we headed back to the hotel, enjoying a stroll down the strip. It wasn't too hot most of the time. Back at the hotel, we watched some of the Michael Jackson footage, and Mom and Bobby got ready to see Ka. While they were at the show, we did some packing. We met them down in the casino after their show was over and we walked to Fat Burger for dinner, enjoying a nice evening on the strip, and taking some pictures. It was a pretty relaxing day.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Las Vegas - Wed. June 24
Wednesday June 24
Today, Grant and I woke up in time to get breakfast at the buffet. Hee hee. Mom and Bobby had already gone, so they spent the morning with a very happy Geoffrey while Grant and I had breakfast, and then drove over to the Venetian to exchange vouchers for their Phantom tickets.
After that, Mom and Bobby went to do the TV research thing they have at MGM. They watched an episode of CSI and then rated it. Mom. Because of her age, got asked to participate in a further study – which took her an extra hour and earned her $50! In the mean time, Grant and I hung out with Geoffrey and watched the wind and rain outside our windows, and then met Bobby to play slots. When it was my turn (while Grant walked around with Geoffers) I got a straight flush on one of the poker machines! Fun! I ended up walking away $10 richer. Hey big spender!
When Mom was finished, we had lunch before heading upstairs to get ready for the show.
While I was changing Geoffrey's diaper, I did a raspberry on his tummy and he started LAUGHING! It was so cute! I had given him raspberries before and he didn't really react, so this time it was adorable! So fun!
Geoffrey and I had a fun evening playing together. He even took a nap long enough for me to get a majority of this blogging finished! Meanwhile, Grant, Mom, and Bobby thoroughly enjoyed seeing Phantom of the Opera. It happened to be the 3 year anniversary of the show, so the guy who played the Phantom came out and spoke, and there was a big cake for the cast! This makes Phantom the longest running Las Vegas musical. They had great seats - 3rd row center or the mezzanine.
Geoff and I met them for dinner at – you guessed it – the MGM buffet. Yum. Did I mention that I've been eating a lot of sushi? Oh... and sugar free desserts... hee hee.
Vegas - Tuesday June 23
Tuesday June 23
We all slept in this morning, so we went to lunch together at the buffet. Most of the food was pretty similar to the day before, and the lines were still long. After lunch, we strolled down to the half price ticket booth to get a discount coupon for the Village buffet at Paris as well as Mom, Bobby, and Grant's tickets for Phantom.
Mom and Bobby walked over to New York New York to check out the new casino, while Grant, Geoff and I went to the pool. Geoff had fallen asleep but woke up early and cranky. He wasn't as happy in the water – it wasn't that he disliked the water, but he was still sleepy. I put him on my shoulder and we walked around the river, and Geoff fell asleep. He slept on my shoulder for about a half an hour as Grant and I went 'round and 'round the pool! When he did wake up, he was in a better mood. We went around a few more times before I got out to feed him.
We headed up to our room and met up with Mom and Bobby. After dinner at – you guessed it, the buffet – we went out for a walk. Geoff was so tired from swimming, that he napped for three hours – from 9:00 – 12:00! We were afraid that he wouldn't sleep at night, but he did! He fell asleep while we were finishing dinner, and slept as we walked over to New York New York (we were very disappointed in the new casino – very plain – it lost must of its character,) on to the Bellagio where we watched the fountain show at 10:45 and 11:00, and then walked back to the hotel. He finally woke up as we approached the hotel, so we took a few minutes to look at the Rain forest Cafe. We visited the aquarium (although Geoff was more interested in the bubbles) and the alligator. Back at the room, he ate and then went right to bed! What a good boy!
Las Vegas Monday 6/22
This morning, Mom and Bobby woke up before we did, so they headed down the the MGM buffet for breakfast. Then they played in the casino a bit while Grant and I had lunch with Geoffrey. The buffet had good food, but had a very poor lay out. I've eaten SO MUCH sushi at this buffet!
After lunch, we went out to the pool. We found a shady spot near the lazy river and settled in. Geoff was sound asleep, so Mom (Grandma) held him while Grant and I took a lap in the river. Then, Bobby and Grant took a lap while I sat with Mom and Geoff. Once Geoff woke up, we all went in the lazy river. He loved it! We started out in the shallow pool so he could get used to the water, and then we went to the river. Mom and Bobby had found an inner tube, so we took turns riding it with Geoff sitting on our lap. He was fine going under the waterfalls and everything! People kept commenting on how cute he looked with his swimming trunks, swim shirt, hat, and sun glasses. Mr. Cool.
After a while, we got out, and I fed Geoffrey. This was the easiest place (other than the hotel rooms, of course) to feed Geoffrey. He's been pretty good about sleeping when he needs to. He is talking lots of little naps throughout the day – and sleeping from about 1AM to about 10 or 11 AM, with one night feeding. He's doing really well!
After our day in the pool, we went down to dinner at the buffet. We were a little bummed that the food at dinner was almost identical to the food at lunch, with a few small exceptions (crab legs and shrimp, for example.) The lines were horrendous.
After dinner, we went up to the room and realized that we had left our diaper bag at the buffet. Bobby called down and they located it and gave it to the cashier. Meanwhile, Grant and I were talking to a manager. The manager checked his office but it wasn't there (because it was with the cashier). We tried to explain that to the manager, and although he was very friendly and was trying to be helpful, he was severely overwhelmed by the long lines – the buffet was not set up to handle the crowds there promotions were bringing in (besides the deal we had – free buffets included with the rooms) they also had an all day pass anyone could buy for $30. IN any case, Grant left to drop off Mom and Bobby for he Blue Man Group while I waited around for the manager to call me back to tell me he had located the bag.
Once I got the bag, I went upstairs and waited for Grant. We had a nice evening with Geoffrey. We went to pick up Mom and Bobby from their show, and then went to Wal-mart for drinks and moleskin for blisters. They had some adorable Disney onesies that we got for Mr. Geofferson!
June 21 - Father's Day
Sunday, June 21st.
Father's Day!
On Sunday, we packed up and moved to the MGM.
First, Geoff and I gave Grant his Father's day present – a picture frame with pictures of Grant and Geoff and a poem from Geoffrey. Then, Geoffrey wished Daddy a Happy Father's Day by spitting up all over Daddy's shorts. With only about 30 minuted left until check out, Grant decided to throw his shorts in the washer and at least get them washed – figuring they could hang dry at the MGM. Unfortunately, he forgot to take his iphone out of his pocket – so he washed his phone too! Of course, it was completely ruined – but at least he still had the accidental insurance, so he was able to get it replaced.
Bobby and Grant loaded the car up with all of our bags and drove over to the MGM, while Mom, Geoff, and I walked and met them there. There was no way we'd all fit in the car with all of our stuff!
We checked into the MGM – one room was ready, so we brought all of our bags in the room. Our room faced South-east, with a view of the airport and Hooters hotel. The room was large and very nice – It has a couch, table, and chair, and a king bed – the room is split into a sitting area and a sleeping area by a large wardrobe / TV chest. The room also has a fridge, a shower with a tub, and a separate shower. We really like it! Mom and Bobby's room is directly across the hall (11306 / 11305). There room faced south west – you could see New York, New York, Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay from there room.
We had lunch to celebrate Grant's first Father's Day at Mon Ami Gabi, his favorite restaurant at the Paris hotel. We gave both Bobby and Grant Father's Day cards and enjoyed a lovely meal in the Atrium. Grant and I split the French Onion Soup and an Endive, Blue Cheese and melon salad, and we all split a Pate appetizer. For entrees, Mom had a Spinach salad with Salmon and blueberries, Grant and Bobby had steak and frittes, and I had a fried green tomato grilled cheese sandwich. Delicious!
After lunch, we walked back to MGM, stopping at the Half Price Ticket booth. They had Bette Middler tickets for $64! We didn't think we'd be able to get into the Colosseum for that price, so we decided to get tickets for Mom, Bobby, and me. Later in the week, Grant, Mom, and Bobby would be seeing Phantom, but we decided to get Bette tickets since we'd never seen them for such a reasonable price!
Once we got back to the hotel, Mom and Bobby's room was ready, so we took some time to unpack. Bobby and Grant went to exchange our vouchers for our Bette tickets at Ceasers Palace, and went to the Venetian to get Mom and Bobby's Blue Man Group tickets for Monday night (these are the tickets they got from Dr. Phil.) Then Grant went to replace his iphone.
That night, Daddy and Geoffrey got to spend the evening together, while Mom, Bobby, and I got to see the Divine Miss M in concert! What an amazing experience. Bette Middler! THE Bette Middler! The show was everything I expected – hilarious and beautiful, with great music, great dancing, and comedy in a beautiful theater.
The show started late, and didn't end until 9:30, so we couldn't make it back to our hotel in time for dinner at the buffet. Our package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the MGM buffet. However, since the buffet closed at 10, we ended up going to The Burger Bar for dinner. Geoff, again, was great, sleeping through most of the meal. He got fussy at the end, because he was pretty hungry, so I left while they paid the bill and fed Geoffrey in the car.
(As a side note – that is the only really difficult part about having Geoff here – it is not a friendly place for nursing at all – hot outside, smoky inside with not a lot of quiet places to sit. Not a surprise, and easy enough to work around – just a comment.)
We joked about what people must think of us walking through the casino at midnight with such a little baby! I am sure there were some that didn't approve. On the other hand, we did see other families out, too! How your perspective changes when you have kiddos of your own, huh?
Saturday, June 20
Saturday, June 20th
Geoffrey slept well in his pack and play. He did wake up for a night feeding, but considering the heat and how dry it is here in Vegas, I am actually glad he's eating at night to stay hydrated.
We picked up Mom and Bobby from the airport. It was so fun to watch Geoffrey play with Grandma and Grandpa! We went to the Mirage and had lunch at Cravings before heading back to the Marriott.
That night, Geoffrey got to spend the evening with Grandma and Grandpa, while Grant and I went to Bellagio to see Cirque Du Soleil "O," which we had not seen yet. This show is so cool – a traditional Cirque but with an amazing water stage! There were lots of excellent acts, including some great diving acts! We both really enjoyed it!
Geoff had a good time with Grandma and Grandpa. He ate almost 12 ounces when they fed him! He slept well again – waking up for one feeding.
Las Vegas - Geoffrey's First Vacation!
SO - I am way behind on my vacation blogging - 5 days in and I haven't even started! I must say, though, that it is harder now with Geoffrey to find time to sit down and blog. Typically I like to do a big chunk all at once - but I may just have to adjust to blogging about small bits here and there.... Hee hee -
Away we go!
Friday June 19
We left on Friday morning to drive to Vegas. We rented a car from LB airport and were on our way by noon. There was a lot of traffic until we got on the 15, and then it was smooth sailing. We stopped at Barstow for lunch, as well as at a rest stop for some stretching. Geoffrey did well for most of the ride - but towards the end, he couldn't sleep any more and was ready for a change from the car seat and some social time.
We checked into the Marriott Grand Chateau at about 6:00 PM, and we all enjoyed some stretch out time. The room we stayed in was a one bedroom – but it had a very odd lay out and was not an effective use of space. However, we certainly enjoyed the washer and dryer in our room!
After we settled in, we headed back out to dinner. We ate at Grand Lux at the Venetian. Geoff was very good – he slept through most of dinner and was pretty happy when he woke up.
We swung by Wal-mart to get some snackins before heading back to our hotel for the night.
Monday, June 15, 2009
16 week happenings! + rolling over!
Geoff sure had a busy week!
On Thursday night, Geoff came to our fifth grade wax museum and science fair! Everyone loved seeing him!
On Friday, he went to our Spring concert. Aunt Cathy Roh held him during the concert and he loved hearing the music!
On Saturday, he went to an Angels game! The Angels played the Padres and won - scoring nine runs - four of them home runs! It was so exciting! (Geoff, by the way, slept through the first 3 innings!)
Geoffers is such a good boy on all of these outings! He really travels well!
Plus, this weekend, Geoffrey rolled over! He rolled from his back to his stomach on Friday and again on Saturday! He likes to put his feet up. rolling into a ball, and then rolling over to one side... well now. a few times, he's managed to roll all the way!
On Thursday night, Geoff came to our fifth grade wax museum and science fair! Everyone loved seeing him!
On Friday, he went to our Spring concert. Aunt Cathy Roh held him during the concert and he loved hearing the music!
On Saturday, he went to an Angels game! The Angels played the Padres and won - scoring nine runs - four of them home runs! It was so exciting! (Geoff, by the way, slept through the first 3 innings!)
Geoffers is such a good boy on all of these outings! He really travels well!
Plus, this weekend, Geoffrey rolled over! He rolled from his back to his stomach on Friday and again on Saturday! He likes to put his feet up. rolling into a ball, and then rolling over to one side... well now. a few times, he's managed to roll all the way!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
15 1/2 week Pediatrician Visit
On Monday, Geoffrey went to visit Dr. Chang. He now weighs 15 pounds (which puts him in the top quarter) and 26 inches (still 90th percentile for length.) With Geoff spitting up so much, and starting to sleep longer at night, I was anxious to know that his weight was all right. So of course the fact that it proprtionally went down had me worried. However, Dr. Chang does not seem concerned. She said he looks healthy, strong, and happy, and that he is growing well. When I asked, she said that his length was great, and that he while not be a chunky baby, he is still doing very well. She seemed impressed that he was still exclusively on breast milk - no formula - and that I was pumping enough.
She also didn't seem concerned about Geoffrey's sleeping on daddy's schedule, which is good.
She wants us to start solids when he is 4 months. It is not for nutritional reasons at this point, but rather to get him used to eating solids so that when the time comes that he needs solids, he won't refuse food off of a spoon in preference to the nipple. At this point, just rice cereal. We haven't started yet - He won't be 4 months until June 20th. I asked her about delaying solids until he was 6 months - because I had really started thinking that I might want to do that. She said that if he refused the cereal or didn't seem interested, it was ok, and to try again in a few days or a week, but in general, she felt we should go ahead and start it.
I haven't really decided yet. His weight does concern me a bit and maybe a little rice cereal would help. Plus it is another source of iron. We'll see how the summer goes.
I am glad that summer starts for me when Geoffrey is turning 4 months. I feel like he is hitting a new developmental level at 4 months - new foods - new feeding patterns (the plan she gave us as a suggestion has him nursing 5 times a day, with rice cereal after the 2nd and 4th nursing), and new sleeping patterns (I can already tell that he can go 8 hours, sometimes longer, without a feeding at night for most nights... He's still sleeping now and he went down 8 1/2 hours ago.) I'll get to be home with him through this particular transitional time.
He also got two more immunizations - His HIB and Polio vaccines.
Neither of these are really known to cause reactions and just like last time, Geoffrey did just fine with them. When nurse Florence actually gave him the shots, it wasn't nearly as bad as last time... he didn't have any of those high pitched screams... just a pissed off cry and then he calmed down pretty quickly.
She also didn't seem concerned about Geoffrey's sleeping on daddy's schedule, which is good.
She wants us to start solids when he is 4 months. It is not for nutritional reasons at this point, but rather to get him used to eating solids so that when the time comes that he needs solids, he won't refuse food off of a spoon in preference to the nipple. At this point, just rice cereal. We haven't started yet - He won't be 4 months until June 20th. I asked her about delaying solids until he was 6 months - because I had really started thinking that I might want to do that. She said that if he refused the cereal or didn't seem interested, it was ok, and to try again in a few days or a week, but in general, she felt we should go ahead and start it.
I haven't really decided yet. His weight does concern me a bit and maybe a little rice cereal would help. Plus it is another source of iron. We'll see how the summer goes.
I am glad that summer starts for me when Geoffrey is turning 4 months. I feel like he is hitting a new developmental level at 4 months - new foods - new feeding patterns (the plan she gave us as a suggestion has him nursing 5 times a day, with rice cereal after the 2nd and 4th nursing), and new sleeping patterns (I can already tell that he can go 8 hours, sometimes longer, without a feeding at night for most nights... He's still sleeping now and he went down 8 1/2 hours ago.) I'll get to be home with him through this particular transitional time.
He also got two more immunizations - His HIB and Polio vaccines.
Neither of these are really known to cause reactions and just like last time, Geoffrey did just fine with them. When nurse Florence actually gave him the shots, it wasn't nearly as bad as last time... he didn't have any of those high pitched screams... just a pissed off cry and then he calmed down pretty quickly.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Geoffrey Update - 15 weeks
In this edition:
Sleep
New Developments
Geoffrey's 7th visit to Disneyland
Sleep:
Well, Geoffrey's cranky period really seems to have subsided. Was it a growth spurt? Probably. But we also did some research and we thought his crankiness might have been due to the fact that he was getting too much night sleep and not enough day time sleep. With him sleeping 12 hours at night (with feedings) he wasn't tired enough to nap too much during the day, and yet he was still tired and needed that day time sleep. We've been cutting back his night time sleep, aiming for 10 hours, and that seems to help a lot.
Now Geoffrey is napping in his crib. Sometimes he is able to go right to sleep, and other times he needs some crying time before he falls asleep, but his crib naps are now 45 minute naps, not 10 minute cat naps here and there. However, he is still flexible enough to sleep in his car seat if needed, or down stairs, or in the pack and play and Nonna and Grandpa's.
The last two nights (weekends) Geoff slept 8 hours and then 9 hours straight through! I still wake him up on work days at 6 to feed him before I leave, but in a week and a half, when summer hits, I think Mr. Geofferson will be able to go through some long stretches of sleep on his own!!!
New Developments:
Geoff is getting better and reaching and actually grabbing toys now in order to bring the to his mouth. Now that he can hold his head up well, he actually enjoys tummy time most of the time! He really is generally a happy, easygoing baby. He likes to make noise and can even laugh and giggle. So cute!!!
Disneyland
Last Thursday, Geoffrey went to DIsneyland for his 7th trip! We rode its a small world. His favorite part was the African scene because he loved looking at all the leaves and vines. We also rode the FInding Nemo Submarine Voyage and the new monorail. Fun!!!!
Sleep
New Developments
Geoffrey's 7th visit to Disneyland
Sleep:
Well, Geoffrey's cranky period really seems to have subsided. Was it a growth spurt? Probably. But we also did some research and we thought his crankiness might have been due to the fact that he was getting too much night sleep and not enough day time sleep. With him sleeping 12 hours at night (with feedings) he wasn't tired enough to nap too much during the day, and yet he was still tired and needed that day time sleep. We've been cutting back his night time sleep, aiming for 10 hours, and that seems to help a lot.
Now Geoffrey is napping in his crib. Sometimes he is able to go right to sleep, and other times he needs some crying time before he falls asleep, but his crib naps are now 45 minute naps, not 10 minute cat naps here and there. However, he is still flexible enough to sleep in his car seat if needed, or down stairs, or in the pack and play and Nonna and Grandpa's.
The last two nights (weekends) Geoff slept 8 hours and then 9 hours straight through! I still wake him up on work days at 6 to feed him before I leave, but in a week and a half, when summer hits, I think Mr. Geofferson will be able to go through some long stretches of sleep on his own!!!
New Developments:
Geoff is getting better and reaching and actually grabbing toys now in order to bring the to his mouth. Now that he can hold his head up well, he actually enjoys tummy time most of the time! He really is generally a happy, easygoing baby. He likes to make noise and can even laugh and giggle. So cute!!!
Disneyland
Last Thursday, Geoffrey went to DIsneyland for his 7th trip! We rode its a small world. His favorite part was the African scene because he loved looking at all the leaves and vines. We also rode the FInding Nemo Submarine Voyage and the new monorail. Fun!!!!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Nap Time
So we've been putting Geoffrey down for naps in his crib. We let him cry for a few minutes and then go in and reassure him. If we have to do that 3 times, we pick him up, but usually he falls asleep before that.
Usually Grant is here when I put him down. Today, though, I put him down on my own. He cried for five minutes. I know that's ok - that he needs to learn how to self soothe, how to fall asleep on his own - I am helping him be independent - but I felt like such a mean mommy.
So then I went in to reassure him, to tell him I loved him. I went in and touched his belly.... and said, "It is ok - it is just nap time..." and he takes a breat from crying and looks at me... and smiles. Smiles! My little boy who is so upset because he is tired and alone in his crib looks up at me, the person who puts him in that situation... and he SMILES... and it melts my heart... and I feel like crap because I am going to turn around and leave and he is going to be upset again.
I know, I am being dramatic. I know, he will be fine. Indeed, he falls asleep 10 minutes later and sleeps for 40 minutes in his crib. I am a swirl of feelings... pride in myself, pride in my little boy... sadness and nostalgia at how quickly he is already growing... doubt about if I'm doing everything right... intense, intense happiness and love. This was a moment. A mommy moment that feels so incredibly complex and so incredibly simple.
Usually Grant is here when I put him down. Today, though, I put him down on my own. He cried for five minutes. I know that's ok - that he needs to learn how to self soothe, how to fall asleep on his own - I am helping him be independent - but I felt like such a mean mommy.
So then I went in to reassure him, to tell him I loved him. I went in and touched his belly.... and said, "It is ok - it is just nap time..." and he takes a breat from crying and looks at me... and smiles. Smiles! My little boy who is so upset because he is tired and alone in his crib looks up at me, the person who puts him in that situation... and he SMILES... and it melts my heart... and I feel like crap because I am going to turn around and leave and he is going to be upset again.
I know, I am being dramatic. I know, he will be fine. Indeed, he falls asleep 10 minutes later and sleeps for 40 minutes in his crib. I am a swirl of feelings... pride in myself, pride in my little boy... sadness and nostalgia at how quickly he is already growing... doubt about if I'm doing everything right... intense, intense happiness and love. This was a moment. A mommy moment that feels so incredibly complex and so incredibly simple.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Development
Geoff can reach for toys now. He still bats at them, but he is also able to grab and hold links on his own.
Also, Geoff likes to chew on his burp cloths. At first, I think he was just bringing it up by default when he brought his hands up around his face to stretch. (He always did like his arms and hands up around his face - even in his 3d ultrasound pictures!) But now, he grabs the cloth and brings it up towards his mouth to chew on!
Although he does not love Tummy Time, he is still developing. He has now rolled several times from his back to his side, and today his legs were completely flipped - if he could have figured out how to get that arm under him, he would have made the back to tummy roll!!!
He also had a good tummy time today - he kept his head up for about 5 minutes and even reached for a toy while on his belly!
I don't know if I mentioned it, but he's still been somewhat fussy at times, but not too bad. He also started waking up at 4 AM, when he used to make it until from 1 - 6:30.
Also, Geoff likes to chew on his burp cloths. At first, I think he was just bringing it up by default when he brought his hands up around his face to stretch. (He always did like his arms and hands up around his face - even in his 3d ultrasound pictures!) But now, he grabs the cloth and brings it up towards his mouth to chew on!
Although he does not love Tummy Time, he is still developing. He has now rolled several times from his back to his side, and today his legs were completely flipped - if he could have figured out how to get that arm under him, he would have made the back to tummy roll!!!
He also had a good tummy time today - he kept his head up for about 5 minutes and even reached for a toy while on his belly!
I don't know if I mentioned it, but he's still been somewhat fussy at times, but not too bad. He also started waking up at 4 AM, when he used to make it until from 1 - 6:30.
lately
Geoffrey has woken up at 4AM for the past two days (as opposed to his traditional eat at 1, eat at 7 schedule he's been keeping pretty much nightly since I've been back to work.)
It is so cute to watch him dream. I wonder what a three month old dreams about...
It is so cute to watch him dream. I wonder what a three month old dreams about...
Sunday, May 24, 2009
tidbits
Geoff went swimming in the big pool for the first time yesterday. He's been in the jacuzzi several times and seems to like it a lot. We were not sure how he would handle the colder pool, but we didn't get a chance to find out - Danny and Grant inadvertently heated the pool to 92 degrees! He had fun and enjoyed it for about a half an hour!
Geoffrey has added a high pitched squeal/scream to his repertoire of sounds. He uses it when he plays with his toys, squealing happily. He also uses it when he's really worked up in a crying fit - when it escalates to that scream, daddy and I give each other a look. Daddy thinks it is funny. Mommy has premonitions of three year old temper tantrums, but right now still jumps at the sound of it to try to solve the problem.
One thing that is more related to pregnancy recovery - I have been losing my hair. Gobs of it. I know it is normal - but man, I can't believe that I am not bald!!!!
Geoffrey has added a high pitched squeal/scream to his repertoire of sounds. He uses it when he plays with his toys, squealing happily. He also uses it when he's really worked up in a crying fit - when it escalates to that scream, daddy and I give each other a look. Daddy thinks it is funny. Mommy has premonitions of three year old temper tantrums, but right now still jumps at the sound of it to try to solve the problem.
One thing that is more related to pregnancy recovery - I have been losing my hair. Gobs of it. I know it is normal - but man, I can't believe that I am not bald!!!!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
3 months - observations
Geoffrey's Likes:
He loves Mommy and Daddy an Uncle Danny and Belle-dog.
He likes to laugh, and squeal, but his favorite noise to make right now is gurgling. He likes to get some saliva or milk pooled in his mouth and then smile and gurgle. He does this a LOT!
He loves his toys. He mostly still looks at them and bats at them, but he can start to hold some of the rings/links on his own. He can look at them for long periods and be amused, talking and laughing. He really is aware of them and interacts with them now! We use the toy bar on his swing, his rain forest mat, and now we bought a toy bar that can attach to different things, such as his car seat. He really enjoys these! It is quite cool to see how his interaction with them has developed!
He loves to suck on/chew his arms! He is really good at grabbing one hand or arm with the other now.
He loves baths/jacuzzis/warm water. I've been bringing his baby bath in the big bath so that he can take baths with me- that is a lot of fun! This weekend, we might go in the big pool - it was up to 85 degrees yesterday!
Being outside.
When Mommy sings to him.
Dislikes:
Sleeping in his crib during the day.
Shots (duh.)
(I am trying to think here - there was a reason I started a dislikes list and I can't remember what it was... ) He's actually a pretty happy baby - and the last few weeks of fussiness weren't a direct effect of something he didn't like. Hmmm.... maybe I'll come back to this.
Oh!!! Duh!!!! He still hates Tummy Time! I worry a bit about this - as I feel like he should be stronger with his tummy skills at this point - being able to hold himself up with his arms a little bit, but I know he'll catch up with this... but still - nothing will entice him - not mommy or daddy, not his toys. Most of the time he just cries! Poor guy. It makes mommy sad when he has tears!
Other Observations:
He is starting to sit upright with support. He uses his Bumpo for short periods. Sometimes we put his swing in the upright position, but lately he seems to be too excited and will sometimes tilt too far forward and then be leaning in front of the support pillows. He can also sit propped up on the couch or bed with blankets and pillows. He seems to like the view this way. We have started to take him in his stroller without the car seat attachment, too, once or twice.
Outings:
Geoff has been to DIsney two more times. His 5th visit was a short one on Thursday, May 7th. We just did the Sleeping Beauty walk through, Mommy did Matterhorn, and we did Buzz Lightyear. His 6th visit was on Friday, May 15th. We went with angie, Andrew, and Cori. It was crowded - but the big people rode California Screamin', and we all rode on Mickey's Fun Wheel (formerly the Sun Wheel). Then we rode Tower of Terror before closing down DCA with 3 rides in a row on Monster's Inc. all together! Cori and Andrew came home with us. Andrew was a big help getting everything to the car. On the way home, Geoff was gurgling, and Andrew said, "I think he tried to say my name!" Cori flipped out and got mad because Geoff wasn't trying to say her name. Hee hee. She was pretty tired! It was kind of funny.
Geoff also takes lots of walks with Dad and Belle at night. He loves these and often stays awake looking around at everything!
He is also great about running errands to stores with us. He's also been to Round Table twice this week since Daddy discovered a new Round Table buffet in Fountain Valley!
He also enjoys visits from Nonna, and going over to Nonna and Grandpa's house, as well as Grandpa and Grandma DeeDee. He loves being a ham for the web cam when he talks to Grandma and Grandpa Bobby on Skype, too.
He's a busy boy! And he is truly loved - he brightens our days more then we could ever imagine!
He loves Mommy and Daddy an Uncle Danny and Belle-dog.
He likes to laugh, and squeal, but his favorite noise to make right now is gurgling. He likes to get some saliva or milk pooled in his mouth and then smile and gurgle. He does this a LOT!
He loves his toys. He mostly still looks at them and bats at them, but he can start to hold some of the rings/links on his own. He can look at them for long periods and be amused, talking and laughing. He really is aware of them and interacts with them now! We use the toy bar on his swing, his rain forest mat, and now we bought a toy bar that can attach to different things, such as his car seat. He really enjoys these! It is quite cool to see how his interaction with them has developed!
He loves to suck on/chew his arms! He is really good at grabbing one hand or arm with the other now.
He loves baths/jacuzzis/warm water. I've been bringing his baby bath in the big bath so that he can take baths with me- that is a lot of fun! This weekend, we might go in the big pool - it was up to 85 degrees yesterday!
Being outside.
When Mommy sings to him.
Dislikes:
Sleeping in his crib during the day.
Shots (duh.)
(I am trying to think here - there was a reason I started a dislikes list and I can't remember what it was... ) He's actually a pretty happy baby - and the last few weeks of fussiness weren't a direct effect of something he didn't like. Hmmm.... maybe I'll come back to this.
Oh!!! Duh!!!! He still hates Tummy Time! I worry a bit about this - as I feel like he should be stronger with his tummy skills at this point - being able to hold himself up with his arms a little bit, but I know he'll catch up with this... but still - nothing will entice him - not mommy or daddy, not his toys. Most of the time he just cries! Poor guy. It makes mommy sad when he has tears!
Other Observations:
He is starting to sit upright with support. He uses his Bumpo for short periods. Sometimes we put his swing in the upright position, but lately he seems to be too excited and will sometimes tilt too far forward and then be leaning in front of the support pillows. He can also sit propped up on the couch or bed with blankets and pillows. He seems to like the view this way. We have started to take him in his stroller without the car seat attachment, too, once or twice.
Outings:
Geoff has been to DIsney two more times. His 5th visit was a short one on Thursday, May 7th. We just did the Sleeping Beauty walk through, Mommy did Matterhorn, and we did Buzz Lightyear. His 6th visit was on Friday, May 15th. We went with angie, Andrew, and Cori. It was crowded - but the big people rode California Screamin', and we all rode on Mickey's Fun Wheel (formerly the Sun Wheel). Then we rode Tower of Terror before closing down DCA with 3 rides in a row on Monster's Inc. all together! Cori and Andrew came home with us. Andrew was a big help getting everything to the car. On the way home, Geoff was gurgling, and Andrew said, "I think he tried to say my name!" Cori flipped out and got mad because Geoff wasn't trying to say her name. Hee hee. She was pretty tired! It was kind of funny.
Geoff also takes lots of walks with Dad and Belle at night. He loves these and often stays awake looking around at everything!
He is also great about running errands to stores with us. He's also been to Round Table twice this week since Daddy discovered a new Round Table buffet in Fountain Valley!
He also enjoys visits from Nonna, and going over to Nonna and Grandpa's house, as well as Grandpa and Grandma DeeDee. He loves being a ham for the web cam when he talks to Grandma and Grandpa Bobby on Skype, too.
He's a busy boy! And he is truly loved - he brightens our days more then we could ever imagine!
3 months - Growth Spurt?
Geoffrey Walter is 3 months old. Dios Mio. He has grown and changed so much already!
I haven't blogged lately because the last two weeks were a little more difficult then usual. Nothing major, but for the most part, Mr. Geofferson was extra fussy. In the afternoons/evenings he would have very little content time, and would mostly cry or fuss or need to be held when he wasn't sleeping.
Daddy and I were perplexed. Did Geoff need a nap schedule? Although his night time sleep was fairly consistent, he had no schedule for day time sleep - he just snoozed when he was tired. It worked for daddy and I - and was really no big deal to us when Geoff slept. Could that be the problem? We started keeping track of is naps to see if we could develop a schedule, and tried to put him down for some. However, he cried most of the time we put him down, and seeing that he is still a bit young to Ferberize, that didn't go to well.
I started doing some research, and remembered that babies often have a major growth spurt around 3 months. Perhaps we were gearing up for that? '
In the meantime, we just cuddled and loved - and gave him lots of baths since he likes those. Lately, I've been getting in the big bath tub with him, and putting his baby bath in there with us.
On Thursday night, Geoff was like a new kid - he was happy and giggly and talky all night, with very few fussy periods! Friday night was pretty good, too!
Was that the growth spurt? Was that it? I was waiting for something worse, but he seems much happier again! We'll observe the next few days and see!
I haven't blogged lately because the last two weeks were a little more difficult then usual. Nothing major, but for the most part, Mr. Geofferson was extra fussy. In the afternoons/evenings he would have very little content time, and would mostly cry or fuss or need to be held when he wasn't sleeping.
Daddy and I were perplexed. Did Geoff need a nap schedule? Although his night time sleep was fairly consistent, he had no schedule for day time sleep - he just snoozed when he was tired. It worked for daddy and I - and was really no big deal to us when Geoff slept. Could that be the problem? We started keeping track of is naps to see if we could develop a schedule, and tried to put him down for some. However, he cried most of the time we put him down, and seeing that he is still a bit young to Ferberize, that didn't go to well.
I started doing some research, and remembered that babies often have a major growth spurt around 3 months. Perhaps we were gearing up for that? '
In the meantime, we just cuddled and loved - and gave him lots of baths since he likes those. Lately, I've been getting in the big bath tub with him, and putting his baby bath in there with us.
On Thursday night, Geoff was like a new kid - he was happy and giggly and talky all night, with very few fussy periods! Friday night was pretty good, too!
Was that the growth spurt? Was that it? I was waiting for something worse, but he seems much happier again! We'll observe the next few days and see!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Mother's Day
On Sunday, May 10th, I celebrated my very first Mother's Day with my wonderful family! I wanted to spend the day with Geoffrey and Grant - so we decided to drive down to San Diego for the day. We visited Balboa Park - Geoff slept almost the whole time. In retrospect, we probably should have woken him up at the park - because on the drive home he wasn't sleepy at all and cried for a large part of it - poor boy - at that point he wanted to play and stretch! Anyways, before the drive home, we went back to Kafe Yen in Pacific Beach - this Asian Fusion restaurant we had found by chance a few years ago. It was very yummy! It was a t dinner when Geoff first got a little fussy. Really over all, though, he did well. I loved being with my boys, and I couldn't think of a better way to spend my very first Mother's Day, then with Grant and Geoff!
Grant and Geoff also gave me the most amazing Mother's Day gift. We now are members of the Disney Vacation Club! We own at Saratoga Springs! I am so excited for the family vacations and traditions we'll be able to develop at Disney World!
Grant and Geoff also gave me the most amazing Mother's Day gift. We now are members of the Disney Vacation Club! We own at Saratoga Springs! I am so excited for the family vacations and traditions we'll be able to develop at Disney World!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Overwhelming
Sometimes the feelings of love are so strong and deep, it is overwhelming. How did we create such a perfect, lovely creature? And everything works! His big blue eyes, his cute little stuffy nose, his tiny mouth that laughs and cries and eats and coughs and sneezes, his little ears with the tiny ear wax, his arms, his hands that hold and grasp and wave, his strong legs, his cute little butt - he poops, he pees, he farts... his stomach digests, his heart beats - his lungs breathe.... so ordinary, common, everyday, expected - and yet so miraculous and amazing.
Wow
Wow
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Daddy's Story
Grant wanted me to share this story:
The other day, Grant was feeding Geoff a bottle. Geoffrey was flailing his arms around accidentally hit himself in the face, which made him cry.
Grant found this very amusing.
(chuckle...)
The other day, Grant was feeding Geoff a bottle. Geoffrey was flailing his arms around accidentally hit himself in the face, which made him cry.
Grant found this very amusing.
(chuckle...)
2 1/2 month pediatrician visit
On Monday, May 4, Geoff had a visit with Dr. Chang. Geoffrey is now 25 inches long and weighs 14 pounds! Dr. Chang says that he is doing very well - everything she checked - eyes, abs, back, ears, etc. looked good. He is tracking well with his eyes, and his neck is strong.
He got two shots - DTAP and PCV, and an oral rotovirus vaccine. Poor guy - he was already getting fussy before nurse Florence came back in, and he was crying through the oral vaccine. By the time he got the first shot, he was wailing, and the 2nd one brought a full blown, high pitched screech. Poor guy! I was holding him and Grant was holding me. He didn't have much reaction to the vaccine - no fever or anything - but he was definately fussier then usual on Tuesday.
He got two shots - DTAP and PCV, and an oral rotovirus vaccine. Poor guy - he was already getting fussy before nurse Florence came back in, and he was crying through the oral vaccine. By the time he got the first shot, he was wailing, and the 2nd one brought a full blown, high pitched screech. Poor guy! I was holding him and Grant was holding me. He didn't have much reaction to the vaccine - no fever or anything - but he was definately fussier then usual on Tuesday.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
10 weeks - 2 1/2 months!
Geoffrey is ten weeks old now - or 2 1/2 months. I guess I need to start talking in months now - but I am not ready for him to be old enough to start talking about him in months!
This week was sort of erratic as far as his sleep is concerned. One morning he woke up at 8:45, and another morning he woke up at 11:30! Still, the other three days were his normal 10 - 10:30 ish wake ups. However, this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) he has spent a LOT of time sleeping. Another growth spurt, perhaps?
On Thursday, Geoffrey made his 4th trip to Disneyland, and had his first park hopping experience! We started out at DCA and had dinner - it is the beginning of the food and wine festival. Then we went over to Disneyland. I fed Geoffrey in the baby care center, while daddy found a place to sit and check his email. Daddy texted us a picture and when we were done, Geoff and I tried to find him based on the pic he sent us. It was fun! After, we rode The Jungle Cruise, and then Grant rode Splash Mountain single rider. Next we went on Winnie the Pooh, which Geoff really seemed to enjoy - his eyes were huge as he took everything in! Daddy took Geoff on Winnie the Pooh again while Mommy rode Splash Mountain, and then we were able to jum in the line for Haunted Mansion in the very last group before the park closed!
This morning (Sunday) Geoffrey got his picture taken. Kelly, a music teacher at my district, came over and took some beautiful shots of him. We'll probably have Kelly come over and take shots every few months. Geoff was a very good boy for all of his pictures!
This afternoon, we went to a BBQ at Grandpa and Grandma Dee Dee's house. Aunt Tammy, Uncle Dave, Lexi, Aunt Darci, Uncle Scott, Drew, Parker, and Karson were there. What fun! Your cousins loved seeing you, and everyone else loved holding you!
Tomorrow we have a doctor's appointment for Geoff. I'll blog more then...
This week was sort of erratic as far as his sleep is concerned. One morning he woke up at 8:45, and another morning he woke up at 11:30! Still, the other three days were his normal 10 - 10:30 ish wake ups. However, this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) he has spent a LOT of time sleeping. Another growth spurt, perhaps?
On Thursday, Geoffrey made his 4th trip to Disneyland, and had his first park hopping experience! We started out at DCA and had dinner - it is the beginning of the food and wine festival. Then we went over to Disneyland. I fed Geoffrey in the baby care center, while daddy found a place to sit and check his email. Daddy texted us a picture and when we were done, Geoff and I tried to find him based on the pic he sent us. It was fun! After, we rode The Jungle Cruise, and then Grant rode Splash Mountain single rider. Next we went on Winnie the Pooh, which Geoff really seemed to enjoy - his eyes were huge as he took everything in! Daddy took Geoff on Winnie the Pooh again while Mommy rode Splash Mountain, and then we were able to jum in the line for Haunted Mansion in the very last group before the park closed!
This morning (Sunday) Geoffrey got his picture taken. Kelly, a music teacher at my district, came over and took some beautiful shots of him. We'll probably have Kelly come over and take shots every few months. Geoff was a very good boy for all of his pictures!
This afternoon, we went to a BBQ at Grandpa and Grandma Dee Dee's house. Aunt Tammy, Uncle Dave, Lexi, Aunt Darci, Uncle Scott, Drew, Parker, and Karson were there. What fun! Your cousins loved seeing you, and everyone else loved holding you!
Tomorrow we have a doctor's appointment for Geoff. I'll blog more then...
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Wallpaper border
The wallpaper border that we chose for Geoff's room is Mickey at the Circus. It is bright with primary colors and very busy - one of the reasons we chose it was because we thought it would be stimulating for him.
We put it up midway around the room - I believe it is called a chair rail or something? In any case, it happened to align perfectly with the top of Geoffrey's changing table - just at his eye level. One of the things he loves to do when we change him is stare at his border - it is so cool! He really loves to look at it! We really made a good choice with it!
We put it up midway around the room - I believe it is called a chair rail or something? In any case, it happened to align perfectly with the top of Geoffrey's changing table - just at his eye level. One of the things he loves to do when we change him is stare at his border - it is so cool! He really loves to look at it! We really made a good choice with it!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
9 weeks
A couple of anecdotes and updates:
On Thursday we went to Disneyland after I got off of work. We did the Sleeping Beauty Walkthrough (My first time since it had reopened!), Mr. Toad's Wild Ride its a small world, Tiki Room, Pirates, and Haunted Mansion. Geoff was MUCH more alert this time, and stayed awake the whole time we were there! He is such a good baby! While we were in line to get Dole Whip, the lady asked if this was Geoff's first visit to DIsneyland - Grant and I, laughing and looking kind of sheepish, said, "Actually, it is his third!" Yes Geoff, you are one lucky boy!
In the mornings, Grant usually wakes up with Geoff, plays with him for a bit, and then feeds him. After his feeding, he sits in his bouncer in the bathroom while Grant takes his shower. SOmetimes he dozes, and other times he stays awake. On Friday, he fell asleep, so Grant carried a basket of laundry downstairs. When he came back up to get Geoffrey, he found Belle laying down on the floor in the bathroom, keeping Geoffrey company! Belle rarely goes into the bathroom, and never lays down in there! Sweet Puppy!
On Saturday, we went to main PLace Mall to watch the GATE chorus perform (I have 5 kids in the GATE chorus this year!) Afterwards, we did some shopping and had lunch. Geoff was such a good baby the whole time! While at Mainplace, I needed to change Geoff's diaper, so I took him into the bathrooms at the food court - but there was no changing table. I was sort of irritated until Grant discovered the Family Lounge on the otherside of the food court - sort of like the baby care center at Disney, with changing stations (Just indents in the counter, but still...) a toddler potty, and two nursing rooms with curtains, plus a soft rugged area with a tv for older kids. It was very nice because dads could use it, and there was a comfortable place to nurse privately. I was very impressed!!!! Geoffrey was so excited, he peed all over, twice, while we were changing him! hee hee....
On Thursday we went to Disneyland after I got off of work. We did the Sleeping Beauty Walkthrough (My first time since it had reopened!), Mr. Toad's Wild Ride its a small world, Tiki Room, Pirates, and Haunted Mansion. Geoff was MUCH more alert this time, and stayed awake the whole time we were there! He is such a good baby! While we were in line to get Dole Whip, the lady asked if this was Geoff's first visit to DIsneyland - Grant and I, laughing and looking kind of sheepish, said, "Actually, it is his third!" Yes Geoff, you are one lucky boy!
In the mornings, Grant usually wakes up with Geoff, plays with him for a bit, and then feeds him. After his feeding, he sits in his bouncer in the bathroom while Grant takes his shower. SOmetimes he dozes, and other times he stays awake. On Friday, he fell asleep, so Grant carried a basket of laundry downstairs. When he came back up to get Geoffrey, he found Belle laying down on the floor in the bathroom, keeping Geoffrey company! Belle rarely goes into the bathroom, and never lays down in there! Sweet Puppy!
On Saturday, we went to main PLace Mall to watch the GATE chorus perform (I have 5 kids in the GATE chorus this year!) Afterwards, we did some shopping and had lunch. Geoff was such a good baby the whole time! While at Mainplace, I needed to change Geoff's diaper, so I took him into the bathrooms at the food court - but there was no changing table. I was sort of irritated until Grant discovered the Family Lounge on the otherside of the food court - sort of like the baby care center at Disney, with changing stations (Just indents in the counter, but still...) a toddler potty, and two nursing rooms with curtains, plus a soft rugged area with a tv for older kids. It was very nice because dads could use it, and there was a comfortable place to nurse privately. I was very impressed!!!! Geoffrey was so excited, he peed all over, twice, while we were changing him! hee hee....
Monday, April 20, 2009
8 weeks
Mr. Geofferson is 8 weeks old now. He is so adorable! He is such a smiley boy. He is especially cute in the morning. First, he starts making noises. We go in and open the blinds, and then unswaddle him. Geogg starts to stretch and then opens his eyes, and then when he sees us, he gets a big, happy smile on his face!
Seriously, his stretches are just the cutest! Mommy and Daddy want to always remember them!
He is starting to exercize his vocal cords with babbles and coos and giggles.
He makes cute little milk-spit bubbles.
He farts a lot. He still loves the changing table, too. Sometimes, he'll stretch and fart and then get this goofy grin on his face.
He is such a good boy. He is mostly very chill andeasy to please. Yesterday, we went to California Adventure and it was 100 degrees! He was so good. He went on It's Tough to be a Bug, twice, to nurse (the termite "sqirting" startled him the first time, so Daddy shielded him with a burp cloth the 2nd time). He also did Monster's Inc, and looked at the Blue Sky Celler with us. We had dinner at Story Teller's Cafe, and he was such a good boy. He spend most of it laughing and cooing and talking to himself. Then he got a little tired and we held him until he fell asleep. Really, such a good boy!
Oh - for the past few days, he has had some green gunk in his right eye, and it has been a bit teary. It started on Friday and Saturday. Possibly a clogged tear duct - because his eye isn't red and he doesn't seem to have a cold or anything. We were going to call Dr. CHang, but he only had a little gunk yesterday (Sunday) and none today (Monday), so we're just going to watch it for now.
Seriously, his stretches are just the cutest! Mommy and Daddy want to always remember them!
He is starting to exercize his vocal cords with babbles and coos and giggles.
He makes cute little milk-spit bubbles.
He farts a lot. He still loves the changing table, too. Sometimes, he'll stretch and fart and then get this goofy grin on his face.
He is such a good boy. He is mostly very chill andeasy to please. Yesterday, we went to California Adventure and it was 100 degrees! He was so good. He went on It's Tough to be a Bug, twice, to nurse (the termite "sqirting" startled him the first time, so Daddy shielded him with a burp cloth the 2nd time). He also did Monster's Inc, and looked at the Blue Sky Celler with us. We had dinner at Story Teller's Cafe, and he was such a good boy. He spend most of it laughing and cooing and talking to himself. Then he got a little tired and we held him until he fell asleep. Really, such a good boy!
Oh - for the past few days, he has had some green gunk in his right eye, and it has been a bit teary. It started on Friday and Saturday. Possibly a clogged tear duct - because his eye isn't red and he doesn't seem to have a cold or anything. We were going to call Dr. CHang, but he only had a little gunk yesterday (Sunday) and none today (Monday), so we're just going to watch it for now.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Little things
Geoffrey doesn't use a pacifier. He doesn't like it and always spits it out if we try to give it to him. However, he does like to suck on the back of his fist - both to self soothe and to show he is hungry. So cute!
Also, my students say that Geoffrey looks like Bugsy from "Bedtime Stories" because of his big eyes. I must admit, I thought the same thing when I saw the movie last week.
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¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´*Bobbi Jo*
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Also, my students say that Geoffrey looks like Bugsy from "Bedtime Stories" because of his big eyes. I must admit, I thought the same thing when I saw the movie last week.
*´¨)
¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·´*Bobbi Jo*
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Sunday, April 12, 2009
7 weeks
Geoff is doing well! He is becoming more predictable.He is such a good baby! He is very adaptable during the day - whether we go out or stay home. He likes being out, though. He lets people hold him, and he simply sleeps when he is tired.
He has a pattern developing at night - although he is probably still too young for us to depend on it. In general, he goes to sleep at around eats between 10 - 11 and goes to sleep about 30 minutes later. He eats again around 3 AM, and again around 6:30 AM, and then sleeps. At around 10:00 Am, he wakes up to start his day. This has been working out well - as I can do the 10:30 feeding and then sleep until about 6:30. Grant does the early morning feeding and then sleeps in. Geoff is also really good about falling asleep in his crib on his own - 90% of the time, he is put in the crib awake and doesn't need comforting to fall asleep after his night time feedings.
When you put toys in his hands, like those plastic rings, he can hold on to them for short periods.
He is still not a fan of tummy time.
He smiles in response to things now. He smiles at Mommy and Daddy, Belle-dog, his goofy faces in the mirror above his swing, and some of his toys, such as the toys in his rainforest gym.
Mommy goes back to work tomorrow. It doesn't really feel real - like I don't really believe it. I think I will sort of be in automatic pilot at first - just sort of going through the motions, tomorrow. I don't know if that really makes sense at all. I mean, normally at this time, going back after Spring Break, I would be thinking about school, lesson planning in my head, feeling nervous about going back - but I haven't really had any of those feeling yet - barely even a dream - it just feels more like school/work is a numb, hazy feeling. Sigh. Summer will come quickly, I know. Geoff is home with his daddy, safe and loved. I have a good job - I can come home quickly most days. I am sure, someday, I will be able to find a balance between a teacher and a Mommy - Of course, being a mommy will always trump - but for now, being a teacher feels more like a job then ever - more like something I just have to do, as opposed to a deeper calling. Like I said, I know that will come back - that I can be both - but right now - I am a Mommy, it my only priority (not just my most significant priority).
He has a pattern developing at night - although he is probably still too young for us to depend on it. In general, he goes to sleep at around eats between 10 - 11 and goes to sleep about 30 minutes later. He eats again around 3 AM, and again around 6:30 AM, and then sleeps. At around 10:00 Am, he wakes up to start his day. This has been working out well - as I can do the 10:30 feeding and then sleep until about 6:30. Grant does the early morning feeding and then sleeps in. Geoff is also really good about falling asleep in his crib on his own - 90% of the time, he is put in the crib awake and doesn't need comforting to fall asleep after his night time feedings.
When you put toys in his hands, like those plastic rings, he can hold on to them for short periods.
He is still not a fan of tummy time.
He smiles in response to things now. He smiles at Mommy and Daddy, Belle-dog, his goofy faces in the mirror above his swing, and some of his toys, such as the toys in his rainforest gym.
Mommy goes back to work tomorrow. It doesn't really feel real - like I don't really believe it. I think I will sort of be in automatic pilot at first - just sort of going through the motions, tomorrow. I don't know if that really makes sense at all. I mean, normally at this time, going back after Spring Break, I would be thinking about school, lesson planning in my head, feeling nervous about going back - but I haven't really had any of those feeling yet - barely even a dream - it just feels more like school/work is a numb, hazy feeling. Sigh. Summer will come quickly, I know. Geoff is home with his daddy, safe and loved. I have a good job - I can come home quickly most days. I am sure, someday, I will be able to find a balance between a teacher and a Mommy - Of course, being a mommy will always trump - but for now, being a teacher feels more like a job then ever - more like something I just have to do, as opposed to a deeper calling. Like I said, I know that will come back - that I can be both - but right now - I am a Mommy, it my only priority (not just my most significant priority).
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