tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6265617042013524312023-11-16T05:58:58.778-05:002moms2dogs2babiesThe story of two moms, our two Wheaten Terriers and our twin girlsAshleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.comBlogger477125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-32031760797403997162018-02-21T13:42:00.000-05:002018-02-21T13:42:56.194-05:00In the OR (Take II)The long-awaited surgery happened last week. Logan received his cochlear implant. He was initially scheduled for surgery at the end of November but ended up coming down with a cold. Nothing big but unfortunately, too risky for surgery.<br />
<br />
In hindsight, rescheduling the surgery was the best thing that could have happened. I was a nervous wreck. So anxious that I was unable to calm myself at times. Panic attacks, I guess. Everything happens for a reason. After his initial surgery date came and went, I dug deep and found calm. Yes, I was still anxious about the surgery but it seemed to be a more normal vs. the "wake in the night unable to sleep" kind of anxiety. One that any parent would have if their child was going under. As the date approached, I held onto two things; faith that everything would be ok (Dandy, my grandmother, would watch over him) and that he was going to be in the hands of one of the best surgeons for this procedure.<br />
<br />
He was given the 2:30pm surgery spot. He was not allowed to eat after midnight the night before. However, he was allowed to have breastmilk up until 10:30am and water up until 11:30am. Thank God for breastmilk! I fed him in the morning, but don't make a ton of milk anymore. I asked my sister-in-law who gave birth to my second niece a few weeks ago (update post needed!) if she would consider pumping a bottle for Logan. She was happy to help so the morning of his surgery, he got to enjoy almost 5oz of fatty newborn breastmilk! It was a lifesaver. He was comfortably satiated up until surgery. My Dad (and Logan's best friend!) came over that morning to help keep him occupied. My Dad also has this incredible ability to get Logan to sleep without issue. He napped for a little over an hour that morning before we woke him up to head to the hospital. After we checked in, we headed upstairs where Logan was given hospital pants and a shirt to put on. At this point, he lost it. Sobbing and reaching for his regular clothes, I did everything that I could to distract him. Having been changed into those clothes for a previous surgery and an MRI, I am convinced that he remembers being put under. Luckily, I was able to distract him with a large car track so that the nurse could check his temperature and O2 levels.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighMnpj5WAtTJmviFHQ28IqXigcvHHj-DjCTgtSzeuxMrO7nLyvoOPHF6adX_GoDi8Bf2U4kaffovnU9_SyBd43r8HTVt3ueEBgzlRaYieEbfUKQ_Pw3wlAz38asgVAvwrOIKpd-QmXAeM/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighMnpj5WAtTJmviFHQ28IqXigcvHHj-DjCTgtSzeuxMrO7nLyvoOPHF6adX_GoDi8Bf2U4kaffovnU9_SyBd43r8HTVt3ueEBgzlRaYieEbfUKQ_Pw3wlAz38asgVAvwrOIKpd-QmXAeM/s320/IMG_2051.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1FilPujBMXY_uVQqLYylnG0WjrpqyYRdAcqbmB-lRCOR1rfWi6EdBE2eNfDJd_8yrviQ1KKoueNJ6BWzPMwq4XK5159UPMWKRNY5zuG9sqxAWzKcbgkn-doBykx7gA_jexJVp0j6Qnr4/s1600/IMG_2054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1FilPujBMXY_uVQqLYylnG0WjrpqyYRdAcqbmB-lRCOR1rfWi6EdBE2eNfDJd_8yrviQ1KKoueNJ6BWzPMwq4XK5159UPMWKRNY5zuG9sqxAWzKcbgkn-doBykx7gA_jexJVp0j6Qnr4/s320/IMG_2054.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcWD-GmyRm8icQokW74RAqyKH1UT6DElS5t9_Yhua_Hg6EpaBy6ZeC9o6L340R9HvtJ3J0iji0ZW_CdY0exNhpwNwOYQNzyzPWmZ8Z4PCWkYfxbMGYL1Btpx9_10mhTxeXw_9WAtyBulc/s1600/IMG_2056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcWD-GmyRm8icQokW74RAqyKH1UT6DElS5t9_Yhua_Hg6EpaBy6ZeC9o6L340R9HvtJ3J0iji0ZW_CdY0exNhpwNwOYQNzyzPWmZ8Z4PCWkYfxbMGYL1Btpx9_10mhTxeXw_9WAtyBulc/s320/IMG_2056.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The surgery waiting room was quiet that afternoon, with just a few other kids and parents waiting anxiously. His audiologist, social worker, nurses, anesthesiologist and surgeon all came by to see us. The surgeon marked the left ear/shoulder, as we requested, so that there was no confusion on which side of the head to cut (he was going to do it anyways).<br />
<br />
We opted to lightly sedate him ahead of him. He was given a very small dose of pain reliever with a sedative about 30 minutes before surgery time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2p_rg7QBI3AM9yurQAYcQX8LeLB_I7qF-1XGHyFdJTDCEgAVEAT-bCY021MEkd6YnLi0pt6o3zRoeWWC5OVPs6_8UPQEHUX5K_4jwpSdAjFxCFuJN-E7dwbKDXRaVYyY3yQ_DAPw7Qwbj/s1600/IMG_2062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2p_rg7QBI3AM9yurQAYcQX8LeLB_I7qF-1XGHyFdJTDCEgAVEAT-bCY021MEkd6YnLi0pt6o3zRoeWWC5OVPs6_8UPQEHUX5K_4jwpSdAjFxCFuJN-E7dwbKDXRaVYyY3yQ_DAPw7Qwbj/s320/IMG_2062.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">15 minutes into the sedation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I changed into what looked like a painter's outfit so that I could take him into the OR. At 2:25pm, we were called. Logan gave Jenn a kiss and a wave as we walked away. He looked up at me and started to laugh at the goofy hair net on my head. As we rounded the corner, the surgeon called to someone to take a look at his adorable next patient. We walked into the brightly lit OR where I was immediately met by his incredibly kind, grandfatherly anesthesiologist. He asked me how I felt being in the OR. I said that I was grateful to be next to him. I lay him down on the bed while the anesthesiologist prepped the tiny mask that smelled strongly of oranges (my choice for Logan). He carefully placed it on Logan's face. Logan started to scream, throwing his head back and forth. He asked that I hold the mask on Logan's face so that he could feel my hands on his cheeks. His wide, terrified, little eyes stared into mine as he squeezed my hand as tightly as he could. I put my face close to his right ear and told him that everything will be ok. It likely only took 10 seconds for him to doze off, but it felt like ages. I kissed him on his forehead and cheeks and walked out of the OR with a nurse. I immediately broke down. The surgeon looked at me and said, "We will take good care of him. Don't worry." I walked out to where Jenn was waiting wiping the tears from my eyes. After a good hug, we checked in with the volunteers in the surgery waiting room and headed downstairs to eat.<br />
<br />
Jenn and I sat eating and drinking coffee mostly in silence. Every so often, tears welled up in my eyes as I pictured our little boy on that table. I reminded myself over and over again that he was in the hands of the best.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tAmHeLT-ydoonHcfaHPifxBOPHHThpDh3QF7-rk0F7yZdEhYRmTdaQZ5X6BfOuDHA_dkU5w9GsfuF65Xq84pRxLeaf0bi7-zO4an7w9DzeTFW_3gXslxTuGbF-sDToQa6O4q5SbGdfsQ/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1015" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tAmHeLT-ydoonHcfaHPifxBOPHHThpDh3QF7-rk0F7yZdEhYRmTdaQZ5X6BfOuDHA_dkU5w9GsfuF65Xq84pRxLeaf0bi7-zO4an7w9DzeTFW_3gXslxTuGbF-sDToQa6O4q5SbGdfsQ/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="203" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">"OR Nurses Care"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We headed back to the waiting room. I started at the screen stating that Logan was <i>"In the OR"</i> willing it to change to <i>"In Recovery"</i>. A high school friend is a doctor at the hospital so she came by to say hello and take our minds off of things. While we were chatting, the surgeon walked in (at the two hour mark). We jumped up and headed into one of the small rooms off of the main waiting room. <i>It went well. A few minor things that were expected. After testing the processor and taking an x-ray to ensure that it is in the correct place, he will be moved to recovery.</i> Three hours after I took him into the OR, we were allowed to see him.<br />
<br />
He was in the nurse's arms when we walked in. He was angry about the O2 monitor and the IV. They quickly grabbed me a chair so that I could breastfeed him. His heart rate was high and he seemed unsettled and possibly in pain so he was given a dose of morphine through the IV. He settled within minutes and slept peacefully in my arms. Jenn gathered our things from the car and met us in his room a short while later. His surgeon came to check on him in PACU (post-anesthesia care unit) and said that he would be by in the morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWH-Jv3NGz5PfzshidNefcVZgIVNqzpTB0W-VzBzYOXGCc1SvIjmISLBdUbfZdxzXasJQIT7MDW512OeqhK4zh9pt0og8aYNaNJU4krS7MV1i9Vinyt2ESXOHe-843M5BdrCrwRmxsPJOQ/s1600/IMG_2064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWH-Jv3NGz5PfzshidNefcVZgIVNqzpTB0W-VzBzYOXGCc1SvIjmISLBdUbfZdxzXasJQIT7MDW512OeqhK4zh9pt0og8aYNaNJU4krS7MV1i9Vinyt2ESXOHe-843M5BdrCrwRmxsPJOQ/s320/IMG_2064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXpjne1y51IH0L-XHhtOnk0OAf6OH-XnAtuc4WP3-5N-aYVTFQR41TlkeBP26qehRd6I7MnMs5cU7xGsfaszIac3Vi10sMRX2QNfJ68Adga5izGC641jLF_HqBwzKqfN_Qd8byz48ysjh/s1600/IMG_2066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXpjne1y51IH0L-XHhtOnk0OAf6OH-XnAtuc4WP3-5N-aYVTFQR41TlkeBP26qehRd6I7MnMs5cU7xGsfaszIac3Vi10sMRX2QNfJ68Adga5izGC641jLF_HqBwzKqfN_Qd8byz48ysjh/s320/IMG_2066.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiwFZ-wUS2ZRpXFIy6yvmv0R5lSkOTo0Xlr23qO3kY15lyMzq8z5JaXb_uaz0uPB2KftHdafM0_0xSnvURi7qur4VA23egXakD6Uhnmxmkb8Pol5sy4-GB_SY2hHe3zBVWunz7cvDjKuo/s1600/IMG_2067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiwFZ-wUS2ZRpXFIy6yvmv0R5lSkOTo0Xlr23qO3kY15lyMzq8z5JaXb_uaz0uPB2KftHdafM0_0xSnvURi7qur4VA23egXakD6Uhnmxmkb8Pol5sy4-GB_SY2hHe3zBVWunz7cvDjKuo/s320/IMG_2067.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
He immediately downed the smoothie that I brought for him and watched a little bit of Elmo on Jenn's phone. We needed to keep him distracted so that he would stop grabbing his IV. After a little while, Jenn headed home to be with the girls for the night. A friend brought me dinner -- delicious! Logan and I settled in for a loooong night of hourly nurse check-ins. He breastfed a lot and spent most of the night sleeping on me. At midnight, he was given one more dose of morphine because it was tough to tell if he was in pain or just unsettled. I managed to get him to sleep in the crib for about two hours, but during that time, he let out several screams so I didn't get any sleep. It was also during that time that what the surgeon said hit me.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Cochlear abnormalities.</i><br />
<i>Gusher. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Wait. We weren't told that he had cochlear abnormalities. Googling "gusher in cochlear implant surgery" at 1am is NOT a good move.<br />
<br />
I mentally listed my questions in preparation for the next morning's visit by the surgeon.<br />
_________________<br />
<i>You said that he has a cochlear abnormality and had a gusher during surgery. What type of abnormality? Was it a CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) gusher? What are the chances of a fluid leak in the future? .....</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Logan has Mondini malformation (IP-II (incomplete partition)) in <b>BOTH</b> ears (this was a shock as we assumed that his right ear was anatomically normal). The term "Mondini dyslasia" was used as an umbrella term for many years and often used incorrectly, so a lot of what's on the internet is incorrect. Both cochleae are abnormal, but at this point, I do not know why he can hear in the right but not the left.<br />
<br />
He did not believe that the gusher was CSF. Gushers are common and expected with Mondini malformation, so this was completely routine and not risky for a surgeon of his expertise (despite the scary stuff I read at 1am). He packed the gusher well (with Logan's own tissue) and then waited to ensure it wasn't going to leak again. He felt quite confident that a future leak will not happen, but admitted that there is always a chance.<br />
__________________<br />
<br />
Logie was back to normal, so to speak, by the next morning. He wanted to walk around, wanted out of the hospital room. He was still hooked up to the IV for prophylactic antibiotics and fluids. His first smile post-surgery was the result of seeing his sisters' faces on FaceTime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXI0OHkQyDjGHmBGcGZymb2xMciusnS4ifBN_Q9N7-Ex5LrnM0jVu6t2BlxBGEU-rIlBbnxGwfJib66hPH7VWk7-EbJcAWCmH6RCBNK69zswLQ48wvE1tMAJcmPaAAkMRB6muFGWWaMEAx/s1600/IMG_2073.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXI0OHkQyDjGHmBGcGZymb2xMciusnS4ifBN_Q9N7-Ex5LrnM0jVu6t2BlxBGEU-rIlBbnxGwfJib66hPH7VWk7-EbJcAWCmH6RCBNK69zswLQ48wvE1tMAJcmPaAAkMRB6muFGWWaMEAx/s320/IMG_2073.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfobglNMbfPXq9fGpQhfTWvzfI2JztG7pOk1a6bROsGsSaTZyRN_U9EYjGCernX9pBkEyABQ1I5KoP2_bCPBfFrWQvtJpa9_CbSxiKiDET7-3V4DFfYDA2TOGHsttww5x_BA76piNv1SN/s1600/IMG_2079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfobglNMbfPXq9fGpQhfTWvzfI2JztG7pOk1a6bROsGsSaTZyRN_U9EYjGCernX9pBkEyABQ1I5KoP2_bCPBfFrWQvtJpa9_CbSxiKiDET7-3V4DFfYDA2TOGHsttww5x_BA76piNv1SN/s320/IMG_2079.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr26ffFNl93XJGUfgBCjqvkDMXGvuU6Nlaj0tIwPz0_lqb3ptEbtEsRvITLN5LmfXHzVfNqUaOMdVFL4kD-78w6U4bJt6DFw2V3IAHrGT45V6MrJI96qPtGvCZ30W2vZluzN46zmJ3WJ2_/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr26ffFNl93XJGUfgBCjqvkDMXGvuU6Nlaj0tIwPz0_lqb3ptEbtEsRvITLN5LmfXHzVfNqUaOMdVFL4kD-78w6U4bJt6DFw2V3IAHrGT45V6MrJI96qPtGvCZ30W2vZluzN46zmJ3WJ2_/s320/IMG_2077.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Taken at 7am the morning after surgery!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />They disconnected his IV so that he could watch the trucks from his hospital window.<br />
<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jKhFmbhdod1ZCeee9C3P-9Z1p9vakpfhJwDGEl7MIrJ-Oh6XbA3ifNfKOSzLyeoC1qdB-wVAZZfnY5Ub8kfo5rgiAr4b19YZOCvcDmBmsMf4cFyYk9kiU7P3uT-vbyhNwEFTzebTyDbq/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jKhFmbhdod1ZCeee9C3P-9Z1p9vakpfhJwDGEl7MIrJ-Oh6XbA3ifNfKOSzLyeoC1qdB-wVAZZfnY5Ub8kfo5rgiAr4b19YZOCvcDmBmsMf4cFyYk9kiU7P3uT-vbyhNwEFTzebTyDbq/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Logie and his best buddy were reunited that morning. His IV was taken out and he was allowed to get dressed. I was able to take a much-needed coffee break. Thank you, Papa!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyPsUsuzToR0G69dejK8BIotf_jLBPjprrssc4JCRFKs34kX0m0HaBZzKudKJpvGvuiH78HLb9lYuARpqWRY8gdwCZ63_sz3zRqjS-5Bx-jBV00ytmT_jfMrDyzRFyVz-0W6lOzq0xTon/s1600/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyPsUsuzToR0G69dejK8BIotf_jLBPjprrssc4JCRFKs34kX0m0HaBZzKudKJpvGvuiH78HLb9lYuARpqWRY8gdwCZ63_sz3zRqjS-5Bx-jBV00ytmT_jfMrDyzRFyVz-0W6lOzq0xTon/s320/FullSizeRender_1.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Jenn arrived after dropping the girls at school and then we were discharged. We headed home so that Logan and I could get some sleep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Over the next few days, I started reading. I needed to understand Logan's condition. I wondered why we weren't told about this after his MRI last April. After an email on Wednesday evening to the surgeon's administrator, I received a call at 7:30am on Thursday from the surgeon himself. I wasn't expecting the call and the timing wasn't exactly ideal, but I needed answers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Logan has a Mondini malformation in both ears. Mondini malformations include enlarged vestibular aquaducts (EVA). The vestibular aquaducts are the small, bony canals that lead from the inner ear deep into the brain. His are prominent. Due to this, Logan is at risk for losing hearing in his right ear. A bad fall could knock out his hearing in the blink of an eye. MM's also puts him at a higher risk for recurrent meningitis. This can be caused by a number of things, including several genetic disorders. Blood was taken during surgery and is being tested for these genetic disorders. I am trying hard to focus on what we know and not what could be. I am hoping that the results will be given at his post-op appointment so that I can cross that off my worry list. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Up until last week, Logan's cochlear implant was a luxury for us. We wavered on the decision for many months assuming that his right ear had typical hearing and normal anatomy. Had we known last April that he is at risk for losing hearing in his right ear too, it would have been a no-brainer. Get him a CI. I do believe that it was an honest oversight. Their focus is on determining CI candidacy. If he has an auditory nerve, he is a candidate. His surgeon is also so good at what he does that this was a completely routine procedure for him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I have many more questions to be asked at his post-op appointment. The questions will keep coming as I learn more. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
In the meantime, I'm trying to stay focused on Logan's physical and emotional healing from the surgery. The former has be quick and easy. Emotionally, he still seems to have some struggles. He is quite attached to me and has been sleeping terribly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
On another note, I did a homeopathic protocol with him before the surgery to help his tiny body manage the post-anesthesia symptoms. Not only did he bounce back quickly, his swelling was minimal. 5 pellets of each were dissolved in a small amount of water. I gave them to him the night before, the morning of and at the "water cut off" (11:30am) and immediately after surgery. I continued arnica for five days (once per day) post-surgery. Homeopathics should be given away from food and drink.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The four remedies in purple bottles are good overall remedy for surgery. The top remedy was given because his surgery involved nerves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrvtmDl77DLayvAdmPqdOy0Z3asEhz35YJ92fOMp3hRUvUbgKlNajz-j_zpBvDnvLkQFhMwW8dxZiNpUe5tb8sokkpEYwyiP2TOCwklG4MFwbCl1LGefyjstngUMdyLuAHeOdYP2K2wwU/s1600/IMG_2113+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrvtmDl77DLayvAdmPqdOy0Z3asEhz35YJ92fOMp3hRUvUbgKlNajz-j_zpBvDnvLkQFhMwW8dxZiNpUe5tb8sokkpEYwyiP2TOCwklG4MFwbCl1LGefyjstngUMdyLuAHeOdYP2K2wwU/s320/IMG_2113+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
In a few weeks, his implant will be activated. Since he can already hear, we aren't anticipating a big reaction. Many kids cry and some have no reaction at all. Stay tuned!</div>
</div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-12943613020018563512017-10-02T20:27:00.001-04:002018-03-17T11:40:41.538-04:00Decision Made.It's been far too long. Only appropriate that I follow my last post was about the decision as to whether we should get Logan a cochlear implant with this...decision made.<br />
<br />
Logan is getting a cochlear implant. It took us 15 months to make the decision. Surgery is scheduled for November.<br />
<br />
We met with the surgeon for the pre-op appointment last week. When he asked if I had questions, I broke down. The tears started to fall. <i>I am anxious</i>, I told him. Jokingly, he said that he won't charge us for the $50,000 device that Logan is going to get, but for Kleenex, I'll have to pay. (We actually don't pay a cent for all of this.) He reminded me that some anxiety is normal. I know this. He stared me in the eyes and said, <i>"I'm not anxious about this at all."</i> That made me smile. He explained that this is a study and as a result, surgery must be done perfectly with minimal risk. He performs four cochlear implant surgeries per week and has been doing them for twenty years. It's going to be ok and I'm just trying to breathe.<br />
<br />
When we received Logan's diagnosis, I immediately went into research mode. I was determined to learn as much as I could and speak to as many people as possible so that we could make the best choice for our child. I don't think I truly let myself grieve his hearing loss. I just wanted to <i>fix</i> it, knowing full well that hearing loss can't truly be fixed. After 15 months of it being a <i>maybe</i>, it became a <i>definite</i>. A <i>definite</i> with a date for a life-changing surgery on my baby boy's brain. It completely overwhelms me. The tears fall often and without warning. Thoughts and worries fly through my head in the middle of the night. I know in my heart that we've made the right decision but that doesn't make the next few months any easier. It's all coming out now. <br />
<br />
So, why? How? What was it that helped us make our decision? Right after Logan's diagnosis, I was in touch with a mom of a boy who is about four now. He is unilaterally deaf, although I don't think his is quite as severe as Logan's. He does not have a cochlear implant, but his mom and I chatted about hearing loss and its challenges. We've been in touch and I recently wrote her to let her know that we are going ahead with a CI. She asked if I would mind sharing our decision making process. This is what I wrote:<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>We both walked out of our first appointment at Sick Kids saying 'no' to a cochlear implant. After a couple weeks of processing it all, I realized that I needed to learn more so that, in the future, I could explain to Logan why we made the decision that we did. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>I went to the Bob Rumball Centre (for the Deaf) and met individuals in the deaf community. I requested to speak to parents who have a child with SSD (single-sided deafness) and went ahead with a CI at Sick Kids. I joined Facebook groups from all over the world -- parents of children with CIs, parents of children with SSD, adults with SSD....I posed questions to these groups and scoured past posts. It was here that I started warming up to the idea of a CI for Logan. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>We all seem to know at least one adult who is deaf or partially deaf in one ear. I started speaking to those people too. They've lived happy and productive lives for sure, but it has not been without its challenges. One of my brother's best friends is completely deaf in one ear, like Logan. We spoke extensively. He explained the challenges of going to restaurants, work events, riding in a car, the fatigue etc. He is managing but it can be tiring and frustrating.This was a story that I heard over and over again from individuals with SSD. In adulthood, my brother's friend had an MRI to see if he was a candidate for a CI. Sadly, he was not. He said that if this had been available to him as a baby, he would have wanted his parents to go ahead with it. Most of the adults I spoke with said that the challenges of SSD started presenting themselves once they started school. This was a big one for me, as Logan's speech and language is currently on par or better than his peers. For the most part, he seems like any other child who has bilateral hearing. However, I have noticed the difficulty he has in localizing sound. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>I've spoken with three parents of toddlers who received cochlear implants as part of this study. Two of them are nearly 2 years post activation. One of them was activated in January. All three parents said, without a doubt, that it was the best decision they could have made for their child. Testing is showing that their child's deaf ear is now hearing within "normal" ranges. This happened in less than 6 months post activation. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>In the future, he can choose to take the device off whenever he wants. Even though we are making this life-changing decision for him, we are ultimately giving him the choice to hear or not out of that left ear. That was the only thing that the two of us could agree on for months!</i> </div>
<br />
I spoke to the mom of a 22-month old boy, who received his cochlear implant earlier this year. The conversation with her couldn't have come at a more perfect time. While my anxiety and worries are still there, she has given me an idea of what to expect. It feels all-consuming right now, but she assured me that it is just a regular part of their daily routine now. She was me a year ago, breaking down in front of the surgeon. She gets it and that's more comforting than anything else. Within months of her son's surgery, he was hearing within a normal range in his CI ear. That is truly amazing to me. We are meeting up with this little boy and his family very soon.<br />
<br />
We were born with two ears. We are meant to hear with two ears.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-20AzpWbHCAr00E1QHMCKqIftvZLqt3Q8bAepG6TDp9_KFUYvWSprgOSato13g3nQiHxEzWmTA6NUjfEnCzx9jkrsTpryx8jqE8YBSjOxgF50GQ-bRt1UeSJQm3wsUBujjSzcJ3F2Mr0V/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-20AzpWbHCAr00E1QHMCKqIftvZLqt3Q8bAepG6TDp9_KFUYvWSprgOSato13g3nQiHxEzWmTA6NUjfEnCzx9jkrsTpryx8jqE8YBSjOxgF50GQ-bRt1UeSJQm3wsUBujjSzcJ3F2Mr0V/s320/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logan and Finn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRA_ANPtUbVSmFw1gGDhMYYYusDuZC0PaF-Qq3n2NSr6IVa9vRzbZRL_j969tSgODefruw-xiKPvpyG_t-13mjPI69VsZRw66k_6120B_MCqiq-Ij_z_2at1ZiV-Pqt15wBHXSb1ZKtkjb/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="845" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRA_ANPtUbVSmFw1gGDhMYYYusDuZC0PaF-Qq3n2NSr6IVa9vRzbZRL_j969tSgODefruw-xiKPvpyG_t-13mjPI69VsZRw66k_6120B_MCqiq-Ij_z_2at1ZiV-Pqt15wBHXSb1ZKtkjb/s320/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" width="169" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With his beloved "ba-pa"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQt0n3eTEhcJgVmVM7H1v4lBrBNPo2BXaVBQSo0npfMNaUUc_W7f30P_kMWvLFjkI4uxe5NyoX5IWCp2U9NNsyxkImzYMVLEvq2u5-fIyWJbTnNBsRD9778DT_vD1BBiV2O5ZgcV_Yral/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1097" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQt0n3eTEhcJgVmVM7H1v4lBrBNPo2BXaVBQSo0npfMNaUUc_W7f30P_kMWvLFjkI4uxe5NyoX5IWCp2U9NNsyxkImzYMVLEvq2u5-fIyWJbTnNBsRD9778DT_vD1BBiV2O5ZgcV_Yral/s320/FullSizeRender+%25285%2529.jpg" width="219" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On their first day of grade one</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb1czcpaksdAsWS1d7JbJnjoG73Zz7i2P4esBrXCR5f0Ze5kn_ZLPCixFAdl3pY8MZaeucVd4TCC88qLg17FdHutDOZ9rJKRfoRAfOf4UKoiKImXEk8PfpuxWAGK8RcIRQmBRl81OrOzf/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1600" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb1czcpaksdAsWS1d7JbJnjoG73Zz7i2P4esBrXCR5f0Ze5kn_ZLPCixFAdl3pY8MZaeucVd4TCC88qLg17FdHutDOZ9rJKRfoRAfOf4UKoiKImXEk8PfpuxWAGK8RcIRQmBRl81OrOzf/s320/FullSizeRender+%25286%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A trip to the zoo with their cousin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wRs-bjbIDb2VTN_Niu81ZHXzw47MVqL5FOVsNGp68aWOsSzSn__s85cU5u-pke0OxNcB6ZkY4w8kmWfrErYo5uaMJYKlp9ajnPfF36llJmtym1xSYOsTZZ3vw2jyU0MADOQ4NDgYBOv5/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wRs-bjbIDb2VTN_Niu81ZHXzw47MVqL5FOVsNGp68aWOsSzSn__s85cU5u-pke0OxNcB6ZkY4w8kmWfrErYo5uaMJYKlp9ajnPfF36llJmtym1xSYOsTZZ3vw2jyU0MADOQ4NDgYBOv5/s320/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking in Portugal. General update post to come :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-11768406081991726202017-04-28T13:41:00.002-04:002017-04-28T13:41:25.355-04:00Decision?Decision time?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We waited for nearly a year (from finding out about his UHL*) to find out whether Logan would be a candidate for a cochlear implant. There were many appointments and tests. Countless hours spent in sound proof audiology rooms. It was the MRI that would determine whether we would have options to help his hearing loss. If the MRI showed that he had some cochlear nerve in his left ear, he would be a candidate. If not, he would learn to adapt to hearing </div>
<div>
*unilateral hearing loss</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A few weeks ago, Logan underwent an MRI under general anesthetic. I was anxious, but I wasn't the wreck that I was on surgery day. I set my alarm for 3:30am to breastfeed. 4am was the breast milk cut off for his 8am ultrasound. I woke early to force myself to eat breakfast. Logan woke around 6am. We arrived at the hospital for 7am and immediately changed him into his tiny hospital gown. We walked around, played with toys and sang songs. At 7:30, the nurse came in to ask a few questions, take his temperature and check his vitals. I met the radiology tech and the anesthesiologist. Logan quickly won the hearts of all of the nurses with his smiles and waves. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XLXpZDBmU-iFbQcNBT9NCnNYlo_G4OIZJHO4FdOLc2WQxtJC7sL-PamwMLPqyCmDU20-xY3u4NniCe5Ae677Vj3G03xbDpe_-mIVhm8B3TPynS7whp4-RHH7OeT_G0sKgls5I6tG8K-v/s1600/IMG_5134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XLXpZDBmU-iFbQcNBT9NCnNYlo_G4OIZJHO4FdOLc2WQxtJC7sL-PamwMLPqyCmDU20-xY3u4NniCe5Ae677Vj3G03xbDpe_-mIVhm8B3TPynS7whp4-RHH7OeT_G0sKgls5I6tG8K-v/s320/IMG_5134.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEJFHKqklL3STrnKuNs-5AkfENOfYpd7RWFHXPBBG7b71w4uz5b1YBSLpqy3p7bCLs-kuXPJ6zuZBYcH8SeM4vgmhlHvB7kqhkkzd7mgiIZMlfxHMxlYjFq6BCEGLUNK4AWoYQrEPquZ5/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEJFHKqklL3STrnKuNs-5AkfENOfYpd7RWFHXPBBG7b71w4uz5b1YBSLpqy3p7bCLs-kuXPJ6zuZBYcH8SeM4vgmhlHvB7kqhkkzd7mgiIZMlfxHMxlYjFq6BCEGLUNK4AWoYQrEPquZ5/s320/IMG_5140.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jqeO10jhTXUY9hFpxhDlcaP1DR0Mwh1ErTJC7iR0YfhuhLUNAZQNrZyVY_vOgJhkKrat-vMRqtVwhENmWxNuU2fKB5XgdXjCxH-yNAh-4W0hlkPYfCP2fUIuqxHT1n5NUBPpzawHUtZO/s1600/IMG_5142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jqeO10jhTXUY9hFpxhDlcaP1DR0Mwh1ErTJC7iR0YfhuhLUNAZQNrZyVY_vOgJhkKrat-vMRqtVwhENmWxNuU2fKB5XgdXjCxH-yNAh-4W0hlkPYfCP2fUIuqxHT1n5NUBPpzawHUtZO/s320/IMG_5142.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At 8am on the nose, I lay my sweet boy on the table and told him that I loved him while the anesthesiologist held the mask over his tiny face. Logan was screaming, with a terrified look in his eyes. I stroked his head and I told him that everything would be ok. Within 10 seconds or so, his eyes started to flutter. A few more seconds passed and he went limp. They promptly booted me out (as they told me they would), so that they could insert the IV and wheel him into the MRI room. They prepared me for what it would look like as he was put to sleep. They even offered to take him from me if I thought that it would be too difficult to watch. Not a chance. It wasn't about me. It was about Logan. Of course it was difficult, but I wanted my baby to see my face and hear my voice as he was put to sleep. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It took longer than expected. But man, that place is awesome. If your child needs to be in the hospital, Sick Kids is the place. The nurse came out right at the 45 minute mark to tell me that he was doing great and breathing on his own, but there was still some imaging to do. I had been told that it would take about 60 minutes. I was updated when the test was complete (it took nearly 1.5 hours) by the radiology tech who gave me a big thumbs up. Logan was in recovery and I was allowed to go in as soon as he started to wake. It took another half hour at least before he woke.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The kid is a force. When I went into recovery, he was in the nurse's arms. He woke and immediately tried to climb out of the crib! I breastfed him, hung out in recovery for another 30 minutes and was then given the go ahead to head home. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Right after the test began, I went to grab some tea. As I sat in the hospital's atrium, I looked up at this poster:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMD1giXJnl6tosFwjRiOPMJPoPih6H8H7aCps4ruXyo9RQuhQYFFsZ_3FcrALfvmM4NiLM8hK2N-fcwPNhW8KX8xnhyphenhyphenyQTi8bvmuHmUbFizZpPNMvnQdSim7MV0JTDGU-AGx1k-w1uepw/s1600/IMG_5144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMD1giXJnl6tosFwjRiOPMJPoPih6H8H7aCps4ruXyo9RQuhQYFFsZ_3FcrALfvmM4NiLM8hK2N-fcwPNhW8KX8xnhyphenhyphenyQTi8bvmuHmUbFizZpPNMvnQdSim7MV0JTDGU-AGx1k-w1uepw/s320/IMG_5144.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's massive. Obviously. I thought about how lucky I am. It's incredibly nerve-wracking to see my baby put to sleep for an MRI, but I got to take him home a few hours later. My healthy baby boy and I went about our day. After sitting in the atrium for a little while, I went back to the MRI waiting room. A very sick young child was wheeled in, attached to multiple machines, with two exhausted and worried parents following shortly behind. Have you seen <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2017/04/07/sick-kids-mom-strong_n_15859172.html">Sick Kids' Mother's Day ad</a>?<br />
<br />
Last week, I received the call that Logan is a candidate for a cochlear implant. We have options and for that I'm grateful. Jenn and I now have a big decision to make. I'll leave it at that for now :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-51338820035187987502017-03-30T10:02:00.000-04:002017-03-30T10:02:01.977-04:00Logan is ONE!Our sweet Logie Bear is one. Really 13 months and 13 days-ish. Oops. The year flew by in some ways, but then also felt long, particularly because of all of our sleep challenges.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfQL_Cg5egf8gIhJPIGv-vjjErMx-Rt5WmVrHDGfWrvA6NaHD4fir1VXlUda5swUbzu28J-kjM6q6zWkYMwtVE3MDIrvcBjMv8wzOlC8LVBOukOKTA0wpv6KI_8bgvn6kzyrYIEkJ6zewl/s1600/2017-02-10+07.22.03-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfQL_Cg5egf8gIhJPIGv-vjjErMx-Rt5WmVrHDGfWrvA6NaHD4fir1VXlUda5swUbzu28J-kjM6q6zWkYMwtVE3MDIrvcBjMv8wzOlC8LVBOukOKTA0wpv6KI_8bgvn6kzyrYIEkJ6zewl/s320/2017-02-10+07.22.03-2.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I AM ONE!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was extremely nostalgic leading up to his first birthday. Mainly because of <a href="http://www.2moms2dogs2babies.com/2016/03/so-we-had-baby-and-this-is-how-he-came.html">the way that he journeyed earthside</a>. As much as I've processed my labour and delivery, I'm not over it. I probably never will be. I guess I'll just eventually be able to be with it. But, this isn't about me. This post is about Logan turning one!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzGlWK50uoWpRuOIPlQ-Z4Uo5qBDE3Tfeq-CkwijIamQFu-b9Ntk_0pIwPZVLMCk0VRbH8szBEL1e307REpXmPVVp31rzfc4EwlCI_RDOr96E6X8q8dtScohHlqqogtgozzgnT7gDuSBJ/s1600/2017-02-09+18.26.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzGlWK50uoWpRuOIPlQ-Z4Uo5qBDE3Tfeq-CkwijIamQFu-b9Ntk_0pIwPZVLMCk0VRbH8szBEL1e307REpXmPVVp31rzfc4EwlCI_RDOr96E6X8q8dtScohHlqqogtgozzgnT7gDuSBJ/s320/2017-02-09+18.26.20.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the eve of his first birthday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdKY2iNzBDj7OZtv_pOAz04OWO3VSVwBr2hzvrY2i_x5aOSGS_eIS77XB6g3URRL9Vp9ZnWduX-xDpAJQ9DU97Sh8ey7onWjugPTkYRKI69gq9OBbJveC8hQf4ImvlhupSaVe2iBA98_r/s1600/2017-02-10+07.00.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdKY2iNzBDj7OZtv_pOAz04OWO3VSVwBr2hzvrY2i_x5aOSGS_eIS77XB6g3URRL9Vp9ZnWduX-xDpAJQ9DU97Sh8ey7onWjugPTkYRKI69gq9OBbJveC8hQf4ImvlhupSaVe2iBA98_r/s320/2017-02-10+07.00.59.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVtA75I8Ue6fQOg5xpp1zKJi5gBjEBDEQqmR2biNNTczCrAZjcqM3_szvAYRHyhNJt-EuCpbCBQ4_PBrZsrsFg734tWdDJNWzJBN7GBtnI7Ap371w0TsugNYgLpXY2TPv3Jg7WHekjDTLI/s1600/2017-02-10+07.12.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVtA75I8Ue6fQOg5xpp1zKJi5gBjEBDEQqmR2biNNTczCrAZjcqM3_szvAYRHyhNJt-EuCpbCBQ4_PBrZsrsFg734tWdDJNWzJBN7GBtnI7Ap371w0TsugNYgLpXY2TPv3Jg7WHekjDTLI/s320/2017-02-10+07.12.20.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">We celebrated our sweet boy with a small family dog-themed party. We ate delicious middle eastern food and enjoyed a tasty cake. The kids played and Logie happily crawled around amidst his favourite people. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvatzpGi0oeYseuK4zhTcD68SWSkWseN4zGQCwhwZ80krScgR5du_jzkxUkqcFOCK_lRKoq1niKO9y9pGz-mlSFBiQEOHkEUB34wbO9rV2sDLuwCeJW7KWZ2FZRSUym1TYFfivibGBhpG/s1600/2017-02-12+11.19.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvatzpGi0oeYseuK4zhTcD68SWSkWseN4zGQCwhwZ80krScgR5du_jzkxUkqcFOCK_lRKoq1niKO9y9pGz-mlSFBiQEOHkEUB34wbO9rV2sDLuwCeJW7KWZ2FZRSUym1TYFfivibGBhpG/s320/2017-02-12+11.19.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIldNbcuZ6FaAKJ0c2ya9piHtCuY-3M30d_f9io4I5m_hEyPPjN6hWza4ikIQutzTw_R8ErigRYGU5zbs8V-eQy8HykwAu2HCjp0ho5f5E2Zo-l55-tuzM9uutWq8dgRJePW8v_FQ9CSq6/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIldNbcuZ6FaAKJ0c2ya9piHtCuY-3M30d_f9io4I5m_hEyPPjN6hWza4ikIQutzTw_R8ErigRYGU5zbs8V-eQy8HykwAu2HCjp0ho5f5E2Zo-l55-tuzM9uutWq8dgRJePW8v_FQ9CSq6/s320/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92AUCe-ugg5RUHZNQ6p7DZwTpXz3qMfBrY7gsLXmXrO0HDC2LG1eZJIXhH39yL1MSMbuHFxMF4ojVyEeWkSU-3P8LAmlUkXSzkbtxQuY_woYvFqXoKuGFcCJO23ssaXyUoVLQFp0McNKF/s1600/2017-02-12+14.19.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92AUCe-ugg5RUHZNQ6p7DZwTpXz3qMfBrY7gsLXmXrO0HDC2LG1eZJIXhH39yL1MSMbuHFxMF4ojVyEeWkSU-3P8LAmlUkXSzkbtxQuY_woYvFqXoKuGFcCJO23ssaXyUoVLQFp0McNKF/s320/2017-02-12+14.19.05.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
His party ended up being right in the middle of a snow storm. We decided to head out for a little walk once everyone had left. He absolutely loved his first ride on the sled!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1EM-c0O975vXWcH9r0SnVf3mvts94s8eLJjUp7PpXNoPV5T6n_e5lu2hwCqjhxGnviWs1qkl9uvnHhxAVF8-uYQEVXeY13b2GdrWXdqWyU0ucGfu0R5Y3sATpBtTkFw9nJzycSntqQ86/s1600/IMG_4402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1EM-c0O975vXWcH9r0SnVf3mvts94s8eLJjUp7PpXNoPV5T6n_e5lu2hwCqjhxGnviWs1qkl9uvnHhxAVF8-uYQEVXeY13b2GdrWXdqWyU0ucGfu0R5Y3sATpBtTkFw9nJzycSntqQ86/s320/IMG_4402.JPG" width="254" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>He is constantly babbling. He also says a few words, "da" (dog), "bye-bye" (with a wave!), "Pa pa" (Grandpa), "Mama" (for Mommy or Mama), "hi" or "halla" (hello). He will repeat quite a few sounds too. While I do worry about certain sounds not developing due to his hearing loss, he appears to be right on track from a speech and language perspective.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He will be having his MRI to determine whether he is a candidate for a cochlear implant in early April. The thought of him going under general anesthetic again makes me anxious, but I know he will be ok. We will receive the results of the MRI within days and then a decision will be made by the cochlear team. I've done quite a bit of research, including speaking to parents of children who have been implanted for unilateral deafness. I'm leaning towards wanting to do it, if he is a candidate. Jenn isn't sold on it yet. This deserves a post of its own!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Food! The kid is becoming a tiny foodie. He loves flavourful and healthy food. One of his favourites is my chickpea curry. He also loves my homemade tomato sauce that I pack with veggies and meat. He tends to prefer savoury foods, over sweet. I'll spice up his food with curry, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and lots of garlic! He loves to feed himself, but will also let me feed him some of the messier foods. For breakfast, he eats toast with nut or seed butter, banana pancakes (literally just egg, banana and cinnamon), sheep yogurt with fruit and hemp hearts, homemade muffins, smoothies, eggs with fruit. He isn't keen on scrambled eggs, but I keep trying. He eats three meals per day and one or two snacks. He still breastfeeds about 4-5 times per day and drinks quite a bit. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Sleep is slowly starting to normalize. He FINALLY goes through the night without breastfeeding. I had to cut the cord. The sleep deprivation was awful. He still wakes in the night, but typically settles himself in a matter of minutes. He is waking very early in the mornings, but hopefully in time, we can push that too!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>4 teeth! </i>His top teeth finally made their appearance. It has made eating much easier for him. He's a giant suck when it comes to teething and doesn't handle it very well. The poor guy seems to be working on a fifth tooth. He's congested overnight and has a bit of a rash on his bum. During the day, he's generally happy and unaffected by teething. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Playing with his sisters is likely his favourite thing to do. It warms my heart to see them play well together. He gets himself right in there and they always happily include him in their games. He is constantly being lifted, rolled, hugged, squeezed and carried. He usually doesn't seem to mind too much. The girls will put him in his play tunnel and pull him around the house or push him around on his little motorcycle (a favourite for all - thanks <a href="http://2momstobe.blogspot.ca/">Allison</a>!) We've purchased a few large items recently...which means large boxes! The girls have been in heaven, turning therm into dog houses and castles. Logan LOVES these box houses and will sit in them on his own when they are at school. He will chat to himself happily. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He loves being outside. He is quite happy in the stroller, especially since I turned his seat to face out. We walk the girls to and from school each day and are often out at other times as well. We live in a very walkable neighbourhood, so I often run errands on foot. He also loves being in the carrier so we do quite a bit of that too. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He participates in two gymnastics-style classes each week and LOVES both. He crawls, climbs, slides, explores and bounces for 45 minutes straight. We also do a music class once per week. He adores music and often bops his head and waves his arms. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_QCxcgEKHvTdAuoD7Bu_Dl7JQeZP71alXB0MslMBDTkW1CXcYI5cXtVeW0DY9NNdDK_egP1PkbCk5YPwEvw4ZzD7tgEY1eG7qsqPsTWFhTdsVkffuokQzPEeugyEXDRBnCzmAas2qxs7s/s1600/2017-01-18+06.43.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_QCxcgEKHvTdAuoD7Bu_Dl7JQeZP71alXB0MslMBDTkW1CXcYI5cXtVeW0DY9NNdDK_egP1PkbCk5YPwEvw4ZzD7tgEY1eG7qsqPsTWFhTdsVkffuokQzPEeugyEXDRBnCzmAas2qxs7s/s320/2017-01-18+06.43.20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui8XGYJRWZGrvrmOiqH4PdX1IT1B1_RBTKvRsihZVAVEENVSGo7iJcwdGRlMOwgMo1dU5m4jvSWYbvroKB6m-Hvyxqm0NRz0mJrSuMpblX19v-2CSHoMGroVibv-kHN17VeIZHMnWDDmI/s1600/2017-01-18+10.42.26+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui8XGYJRWZGrvrmOiqH4PdX1IT1B1_RBTKvRsihZVAVEENVSGo7iJcwdGRlMOwgMo1dU5m4jvSWYbvroKB6m-Hvyxqm0NRz0mJrSuMpblX19v-2CSHoMGroVibv-kHN17VeIZHMnWDDmI/s320/2017-01-18+10.42.26+HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Canadian boy and his Grandpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUn1UR8ihxhWBJrRdCiD4Ln3i8DUxpP9UMzveuDAMBhCIR9GBCFsmdL8Dq9YvEyq-8vwkP4Z1S2nw8xGY-kmeQWqfYABS3dNfWvsQMOgHG1tcORSHf3JZ5PyOqCS4DBfRmwf97so2Z8yJ/s1600/2017-01-24+14.16.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUn1UR8ihxhWBJrRdCiD4Ln3i8DUxpP9UMzveuDAMBhCIR9GBCFsmdL8Dq9YvEyq-8vwkP4Z1S2nw8xGY-kmeQWqfYABS3dNfWvsQMOgHG1tcORSHf3JZ5PyOqCS4DBfRmwf97so2Z8yJ/s320/2017-01-24+14.16.54.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWkz6p2B4pKiDFTVDnE4Dr46yHNnfLL97bW1YhrMl-oEGys6BfhIKkPU_qlgGzFqZe7jN4PTyaR9xHA3kyjOrQHeGJLqxoVYX_yvo0dL0HKS_hmWEOElMH8OmZJPZlIjDlkhYiIFZw4oO/s1600/2017-01-27+15.43.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWkz6p2B4pKiDFTVDnE4Dr46yHNnfLL97bW1YhrMl-oEGys6BfhIKkPU_qlgGzFqZe7jN4PTyaR9xHA3kyjOrQHeGJLqxoVYX_yvo0dL0HKS_hmWEOElMH8OmZJPZlIjDlkhYiIFZw4oO/s320/2017-01-27+15.43.52.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPTECHo7DWFnp1VktBmrq3ImSgepVfepVawUaDCZqA2F168WwVeIO5rYbEjWQ7RJ8juvWW1LZSV-sfvf8hJNEHOJ1Jgy8qYVyMKM3kXzuIJhuXtNkXTVo0aDUxJi3n2lqs_v5YFwzz-kP/s1600/2017-01-27+15.51.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPTECHo7DWFnp1VktBmrq3ImSgepVfepVawUaDCZqA2F168WwVeIO5rYbEjWQ7RJ8juvWW1LZSV-sfvf8hJNEHOJ1Jgy8qYVyMKM3kXzuIJhuXtNkXTVo0aDUxJi3n2lqs_v5YFwzz-kP/s320/2017-01-27+15.51.27.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP4w1sa-ydL8CTv6Bro3nRvGS6_bliiFe3aNLOw06nsSxBAb9WwHvZE_8aO_3IMBXe94s3TnLwc3_GOG1GkXRwzNUt06ttQxOPU6pPvMo-oB99F_9ll_q6OeyCeiNvp8bNT-X1q4XM_GRW/s1600/2017-01-31+12.55.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP4w1sa-ydL8CTv6Bro3nRvGS6_bliiFe3aNLOw06nsSxBAb9WwHvZE_8aO_3IMBXe94s3TnLwc3_GOG1GkXRwzNUt06ttQxOPU6pPvMo-oB99F_9ll_q6OeyCeiNvp8bNT-X1q4XM_GRW/s320/2017-01-31+12.55.41.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdgvLC2lndzqbzAROzQWxEs9LfxMErmRhizQ1WBsN4oZ7vYpEpspdNoZB2m4rwuev6xR3FiFpb_ESdCZ9cYt8SLCvIL0EfRvEEKLD3VThvkebLtNHBQglkBKcle0Om3lgxV3ne8zq9U52/s1600/2017-02-04+12.30.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdgvLC2lndzqbzAROzQWxEs9LfxMErmRhizQ1WBsN4oZ7vYpEpspdNoZB2m4rwuev6xR3FiFpb_ESdCZ9cYt8SLCvIL0EfRvEEKLD3VThvkebLtNHBQglkBKcle0Om3lgxV3ne8zq9U52/s320/2017-02-04+12.30.28.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeIl65YmXPri2qEASgsTKqgZEGwtplo0SmdFGsAthCcSwxfMdUNEjH72aMXGIqT81tx3-1rz3fAdN-1OAd2puZ7jKLNu4kRcFp5BT0ome0gO5EGiipaSOkzoGGF8aUkqTVb4Ba2vJnnVT/s1600/2017-02-07+07.03.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeIl65YmXPri2qEASgsTKqgZEGwtplo0SmdFGsAthCcSwxfMdUNEjH72aMXGIqT81tx3-1rz3fAdN-1OAd2puZ7jKLNu4kRcFp5BT0ome0gO5EGiipaSOkzoGGF8aUkqTVb4Ba2vJnnVT/s320/2017-02-07+07.03.37.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c2OvEQjS-qK75QFi3hCGsOgN95mVA1BC08Rn4Nb2zdOnqNrWUNeD9PjTIdNpSKwKAflFy0E1K8sDANSixPt5kkQFquWNUjdTM7pL6SgQTeyXJLtInBZGBym1ZOdKAJhvvcJExAmeWwXV/s1600/2017-02-17+11.00.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c2OvEQjS-qK75QFi3hCGsOgN95mVA1BC08Rn4Nb2zdOnqNrWUNeD9PjTIdNpSKwKAflFy0E1K8sDANSixPt5kkQFquWNUjdTM7pL6SgQTeyXJLtInBZGBym1ZOdKAJhvvcJExAmeWwXV/s320/2017-02-17+11.00.21.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCAaoLK5j51G6tKu6gBXzVCoBEj96qS8sngNTc92sJU9Teqk2eZw5u1gtjTS_q1uu4_28A5Go9zY_RImmmm91VKxAvDehzQz8tLtjp1Vp8NCuDGvrCZa-OwQIU93rxbJoOsgQ7iRB1DQF/s1600/2017-02-18+09.58.17+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCAaoLK5j51G6tKu6gBXzVCoBEj96qS8sngNTc92sJU9Teqk2eZw5u1gtjTS_q1uu4_28A5Go9zY_RImmmm91VKxAvDehzQz8tLtjp1Vp8NCuDGvrCZa-OwQIU93rxbJoOsgQ7iRB1DQF/s320/2017-02-18+09.58.17+HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most of our family pictures these days are selfies...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvGWEMm4kyfOR6ptUMQgk2lX2dULrVCXYlQW5JbyO7_vjPLgmTk70YPLzTxrCSQ3wlf5XLGUDAVBVxq0Nbq9gvMB6WF40AKWIUpcdy8E2wnkHJXk2fS0ATrcw5iwVMKwa5WkocuD9mraO/s1600/2017-02-20+09.45.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvGWEMm4kyfOR6ptUMQgk2lX2dULrVCXYlQW5JbyO7_vjPLgmTk70YPLzTxrCSQ3wlf5XLGUDAVBVxq0Nbq9gvMB6WF40AKWIUpcdy8E2wnkHJXk2fS0ATrcw5iwVMKwa5WkocuD9mraO/s320/2017-02-20+09.45.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUYwTZmBOW3BtdqLi0whFGDk4aU_jqo9MMJNRDz_Xge2lCQlNQu_I-WcnlTkeMEhjyJ5rDGBCb0bmV3_IBcZ1kyzrhpq5WE6vi_j1XoCna5DPDx5h8cWDwOJ2bQfb6UnwF_68AAszpkMV/s1600/2017-02-23+12.54.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUYwTZmBOW3BtdqLi0whFGDk4aU_jqo9MMJNRDz_Xge2lCQlNQu_I-WcnlTkeMEhjyJ5rDGBCb0bmV3_IBcZ1kyzrhpq5WE6vi_j1XoCna5DPDx5h8cWDwOJ2bQfb6UnwF_68AAszpkMV/s320/2017-02-23+12.54.41.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyOnI5Eez410640gwgxnwL-blvE5nVHKwtRZ_cEw_-aldFHK-G0Mx7bacJwv1vfTWZCcV8n4ApkveZdUmLVWt6lYNx1vwlimKb-7DwsyGyjfA45ry_zhZhzvpN0Ubjl2sC7h7EL8t7jfr/s1600/2017-03-02+10.09.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyOnI5Eez410640gwgxnwL-blvE5nVHKwtRZ_cEw_-aldFHK-G0Mx7bacJwv1vfTWZCcV8n4ApkveZdUmLVWt6lYNx1vwlimKb-7DwsyGyjfA45ry_zhZhzvpN0Ubjl2sC7h7EL8t7jfr/s320/2017-03-02+10.09.49.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIf6M6efy6rDLKstR9PkZUr_0VlToGnHkbTK0BMbeRNEezSSqZFPv065t2puNijPNDO7EiT0DPDWq_M2CmNkosmzzjokV2PUGSur9uJFHawck8SssLATDq9K0bu0bN9-WqlS6z3_bcYU5d/s1600/2017-03-03+10.59.15+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIf6M6efy6rDLKstR9PkZUr_0VlToGnHkbTK0BMbeRNEezSSqZFPv065t2puNijPNDO7EiT0DPDWq_M2CmNkosmzzjokV2PUGSur9uJFHawck8SssLATDq9K0bu0bN9-WqlS6z3_bcYU5d/s320/2017-03-03+10.59.15+HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His light coloured eyes need to be protected,<br />so says the eye doc.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7XTv2LL3bDduVy4g-MLe1HwzBCnVuJctqoF1MxhOnw7IC3NeWOtfL-96atliAacIXFiIwudd05dSbjFksTLliHrb04NO9dIiuPAAHPP8DDvSsrRGI1JDf2cbScpJ6KQmoKRaj3e3vLv2/s1600/2017-03-06+14.20.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7XTv2LL3bDduVy4g-MLe1HwzBCnVuJctqoF1MxhOnw7IC3NeWOtfL-96atliAacIXFiIwudd05dSbjFksTLliHrb04NO9dIiuPAAHPP8DDvSsrRGI1JDf2cbScpJ6KQmoKRaj3e3vLv2/s320/2017-03-06+14.20.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Yqwgs-SjikOEBxt32In4QMe5z2OiiQRc4ISKWUAKkNn8DSjfIJE9uU6iQEdCnlkIaYqMSFWNyNTz0gFNXhMBx_fgP4G0Yuq3sPjUPIK7168Z9It9xKoC9MIPeEXF1_iHMEqboScp8ofH/s1600/2017-03-07+08.09.53-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Yqwgs-SjikOEBxt32In4QMe5z2OiiQRc4ISKWUAKkNn8DSjfIJE9uU6iQEdCnlkIaYqMSFWNyNTz0gFNXhMBx_fgP4G0Yuq3sPjUPIK7168Z9It9xKoC9MIPeEXF1_iHMEqboScp8ofH/s320/2017-03-07+08.09.53-1.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tolerant big sister</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZB0KfLVUr4CtsMYG_CgpF8RATM5-lLfq3KXV8CVw0SUp2R1qwTcITy-DguqZ9x1Dc2coZuvDCHfRdAUwxy3s1NwpA_0L1HoeenzIVBYqTHDv6EoJOVtddBVqf9D_EFHloGL1ItW6n9VB/s1600/2017-03-15+14.56.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZB0KfLVUr4CtsMYG_CgpF8RATM5-lLfq3KXV8CVw0SUp2R1qwTcITy-DguqZ9x1Dc2coZuvDCHfRdAUwxy3s1NwpA_0L1HoeenzIVBYqTHDv6EoJOVtddBVqf9D_EFHloGL1ItW6n9VB/s320/2017-03-15+14.56.40.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kid climbs everything! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
His birthday present finally arrived and he is thrilled!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eLfrbj1vJzHSIl28bcHOWzT5pX8lBzU0bil543yDzgT4qR6j_2Bu7OsGeDpkqhHQbJIMHypEu5p5NxABAN-DwM8xDY_mJRG4jiLijxpXH76FolaqArNGZaLDaySS2s5bFJXMfsuEO-m-/s1600/2017-03-17+14.04.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eLfrbj1vJzHSIl28bcHOWzT5pX8lBzU0bil543yDzgT4qR6j_2Bu7OsGeDpkqhHQbJIMHypEu5p5NxABAN-DwM8xDY_mJRG4jiLijxpXH76FolaqArNGZaLDaySS2s5bFJXMfsuEO-m-/s320/2017-03-17+14.04.47.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFw1RIO1XyOH6lM-ervIR2EpaEN_C9ROeLLUquwTSUQXIJmxSfn6iWWv7wYobDheskIf3AOvpUcXMX2CMFSlvfUG2cnexajncroeOYLJiBU325rV0G-6xTK7xRfg1DigQzPzPT0zLAzdgk/s1600/2017-03-17+14.10.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFw1RIO1XyOH6lM-ervIR2EpaEN_C9ROeLLUquwTSUQXIJmxSfn6iWWv7wYobDheskIf3AOvpUcXMX2CMFSlvfUG2cnexajncroeOYLJiBU325rV0G-6xTK7xRfg1DigQzPzPT0zLAzdgk/s320/2017-03-17+14.10.46.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyAnpKJXGbblAnvWsXNzQ1pVrmxjC6wXWABmod0qeftN15VUso-QLuQU037hJa9xEDYAOIZ1kwXagGr1paNHA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-48951711529099709132017-02-07T13:43:00.001-05:002017-02-07T13:43:29.463-05:00In the ORStaring at a screen with my baby's name and "In the OR" next to it for two and a half hours was one of the most emotionally difficult things that I've ever been through. Even harder than that was passing my baby over to a nurse and watching him walk into the OR.<br />
<br />
As I briefly mentioned in a previous post, Logan had surgery at <a href="https://www.sickkids.ca/">Sick Kids</a> last week. Thank God for the reputation of the hospital and the surgeon who operated on Logan. He truly is one of the best in his field. Every parent hopes to never set foot in a children's hospital, but since we had to, I'm incredibly grateful to have Sick Kids down the road.<br />
<br />
Before I go on, the surgery went perfectly and Logan is doing as well as can be expected.<br />
<br />
Shortly after birth, our midwife noticed that Logan had hypospadias. The hole of his pen*s wasn't in the correct spot and his urethra wasn't straight. He was peeing normally and otherwise fine, so there was no immediate action to be taken. While he could live normally with this condition, it would have affected him later in life, so on the recommendation of the surgeons at Sick Kids, we chose to go ahead with surgery. As it turns out, his condition was much more severe, so going ahead with surgery was definitely the best course of action.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeO09XJPlFv3W8QZao5NMP4cCcbdq8Ep5OHl1xQoXBOQmn-ulXbFVdLrX_pDHTM3iDDxK-pGfJPVpUFCdPOZSV0mw6IETknqhxdRapj6yW7hyOvfW6zPKOviOnOZCjT8OoiyRkzhuPn7fM/s1600/IMG_4211+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeO09XJPlFv3W8QZao5NMP4cCcbdq8Ep5OHl1xQoXBOQmn-ulXbFVdLrX_pDHTM3iDDxK-pGfJPVpUFCdPOZSV0mw6IETknqhxdRapj6yW7hyOvfW6zPKOviOnOZCjT8OoiyRkzhuPn7fM/s320/IMG_4211+%25283%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have that weird selfie look, but Logan looks<br />adorable!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5kEd0WzlxihOaXB2TwCtqHVdyCIfe4Tmsv_07uWicWMVxaNf_fmp3uTXIRuTRQuz77t5sGWlIRqzjGftV7R83uZShi7W2saheiBSIT42GrGAIADysBn8Sgvg-gw7SxXgWcEiZ6KCE9eUc/s1600/IMG_4293+%25283%2529.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5kEd0WzlxihOaXB2TwCtqHVdyCIfe4Tmsv_07uWicWMVxaNf_fmp3uTXIRuTRQuz77t5sGWlIRqzjGftV7R83uZShi7W2saheiBSIT42GrGAIADysBn8Sgvg-gw7SxXgWcEiZ6KCE9eUc/s320/IMG_4293+%25283%2529.JPEG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hopsital bracelet on a chubby little ankle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As with most surgeries, Logan was not allowed to eat after midnight. Fortunately, he was allowed to have breast milk that morning. I fed him at 6am. We dropped the girls off at a friend's house at 7:40 and then headed to the hospital for 8am. After checking in, we waited to see the nurse. She confirmed that Logan was healthy enough for surgery and then we changed him into a hospital gown. By 9:30, he was visibly tired. He normally goes down for his first nap by 9am. But, with all of the other kids, parents and things to look at, he was overstimulated. We watched doctors come out and talk to parents and patients. We watched babies and little kids walk or get carried into the OR. Anticipation built as we waited for that to be us. As his scheduled 11am surgery time approached, he was becoming cranky from fatigue and hunger. I walked him in the hall and kept him distracted as best I could. While speaking with one of the fellows, he went into full on hysterics. I took him into the hall so Jenn could finish listening to what the doctor was saying. The poor guy was a wreck and couldn't understand why I wouldn't feed him, so I eventually passed him over to Jenn. In a state of sheer exhaustion, he finally fell asleep. His surgery was running late. We spoke with the anesthesiologist and the OR nurse who would be by his side for the entire time. <i>"I have two children of my own. I will treat your son like he's one of my own." </i>Said the nurse. He had been doing this for 24 years and had a level of confidence about himself that was comforting. I wanted to take Logan into the OR myself (parents are allowed to do that at Sick Kids), but it was recommended that we pass him over to the nurse still sleeping. Hopefully, they would be able to gas him while he was still asleep. The transfer was made successfully and we watched the nurse walk through the doors to the OR with our sweet sleeping baby in his arms.<br />
<br />
I was desperate to keep it together. To stay positive in my own head. Jenn broke down in tears. That's usually me. I fought back the tears as best I could. We composed ourselves. Our little guy would be ok.<br />
<br />
After checking into the surgical waiting room, we were told to expect that he would be in surgery for 2.5 hours. It was suggested that we grab some lunch. I felt weak and exhausted from carrying Logan for hours. I didn't want to eat, but knew that I should get something down. Jenn and I mostly ate in silence. We both agreed that it had been one of the most emotionally difficult mornings of our life.<br />
<br />
We recognized that for all of the reasons parents bring their children to the hospital, this is nothing in comparison. The strength of those parents going through severe illness or injury with their children is truly incredible.<br />
<br />
After lunch, we sat in the waiting room. Jenn got some work done. I tried to read, but ended up on reading the same sentences over and over again. We watched surgeons come out and take parents into the back room to discuss their child's surgery. We watched "In the OR" change to "In Recovery". I heard the surgeon say Logan's name to the volunteer before we saw him. He called us into the back room to tell us that the surgery had been successful and Logan was on his way to recovery. He explained what had been done. He also said that Logan's condition was much more severe than we were initially told, so it was good that we had gone ahead with it. He said that the end result is perfect and talked about care for the next 10 days or so. He answered our questions and ended with <i>"thank you for letting me take care of your boy." </i>An even bigger 'thank you' for taking such good care of him!<br />
<br />
Logan had a general anesthetic and a local anesthetic (caudal block). The caudal block wore off about 6 hours after surgery. Despite the advil and tylenol that he had been given, he was in intense pain. He was screaming, kicking his legs and arching his back. We gave him a dose of morphine and helplessly waited for it to kick in. I held him, but was afraid that I was hurting him. I lay next to him on the bed. Tried desperately to nurse him for comfort. Eventually, he was given some relief from the morphine and fell asleep. He was unsettled though. I lay with him for a while. After an unsettled hour or so of sleep, he woke again, screaming in pain. We were not able to give him anymore pain killers, so I tried to soothe him in any way I could. I then opened the diaper to find that it was full of blood. Jenn and I were both startled and shocked. We carefully changed him and then decided to rush him back to the hospital. I rushed him to the ER and Jenn waited for my brother to come to our house to stay with the girls before coming down to join us.<br />
<br />
The ER was packed. Given our reason for being there, Logan was rushed past everyone waiting for the triage nurses and immediately given a room. Fortunately, the bleeding had stopped, but we couldn't figure out what had caused it. After seeing the doctors and speaking with urology, they decided to run some blood work to confirm that he didn't have a blood disorder. The results came back clear and he seemed to be more comfortable. In the early morning hours, we headed home.<br />
<br />
Logan came home with a stent (catheter) in. It is being removed 8 days after surgery. That's been the most interesting part of caring for him so far. He is double diapered. The catheter drains into the outer diaper because it is important that it stays clean. For the first several days, he needed to soak in warm water four times per day to help the bandage fall off on its own. After he poops, I gently hose him down in the sink (because he can't be wiped), then let him soak, air dry and finally put on his two diapers. It's a process that can take up to 30 minutes.<br />
<br />
Late last week, I discovered that his catheter was full of blood. When I was unable to get a hold of the Sick Kids nurse, I called my aunt, who just happens to be a urology nurse. She was completely calm and told me to get him to drink to see if the blood flushes through. Thank God for her! I was ready to rush back to the hospital. Fortunately, the Sick Kids nurse called me a short while later and said that a small amount of blood is normal, given the trauma that his body has been through, but a blood soaked diaper (like the first night) is not. After some water and breast milk, the blood flushed through. After that scare, I made sure to keep him well hydrated, which means that he's been sleeping with me and nursing like a newborn. His comfort has been my priority for the last week, so I'll deal with the sleep regression later!<br />
<br />
In addition to the pain killers, I started him on a homeopathic remedy, arnica, on the day before surgery. Arnica helps with pain, swelling and bruising and can expedite the healing process and the removal of the anesthetics from his system. We were told that day 2 would be far worse for Logan, but as it turns out, the swelling had significantly reduced and he was in good spirits. I do attribute some of this to the arnica. <br />
<br />
Kids are amazingly resilient. Jenn and I are both grateful that we dealt with this now. As a baby, he won't remember it and I would imagine that the healing process is easier and quicker that it would be with a toddler or an older child. We are also grateful that his birth defect was easily corrected and shouldn't cause him any more issues in the future.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGVhhprbqjsqlWkvY6ejaPAgL-LNBEzl95Ww2qk7SLMPWZrpk-pRcVawTBhwOen7J-cmB6a38PXmY38MnJaqIBgK5VP9U-keuL93mq_OPDdOvnj1nK1Zo_XODfEHRTGbrE0iXhLIubcCQ/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGVhhprbqjsqlWkvY6ejaPAgL-LNBEzl95Ww2qk7SLMPWZrpk-pRcVawTBhwOen7J-cmB6a38PXmY38MnJaqIBgK5VP9U-keuL93mq_OPDdOvnj1nK1Zo_XODfEHRTGbrE0iXhLIubcCQ/s320/image1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kYbUrxp-Z87Jo_kdGiin-HfZ0VKzdFjntyXms-_36vUImMnZ4Tw8p1eC5d4F3H9Pf6gcpfYXclNXn78uFDG7pKZj5tQSiSdXUZ1KK2gORK30ECbl7k59HHy3Npo2vOPc54DaoGo_2QI2/s1600/IMG_4229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kYbUrxp-Z87Jo_kdGiin-HfZ0VKzdFjntyXms-_36vUImMnZ4Tw8p1eC5d4F3H9Pf6gcpfYXclNXn78uFDG7pKZj5tQSiSdXUZ1KK2gORK30ECbl7k59HHy3Npo2vOPc54DaoGo_2QI2/s320/IMG_4229.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-86562808550793002022017-01-27T14:33:00.002-05:002017-01-27T14:33:28.891-05:009, 10 and 11 Months Old! Eeeep! Sorry Logan. Just like that you're nearly 1. This kid is such a bright light in all of our lives. Happy belated 9, 10 and 11 months little dude :)<br />
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWvCEBl6ds7iG3p7GkEmjoPUcgS8V4FLq9ecELy6eUf4emvqQ6keCBF5ncfIjDGI1H1Sl8JIemL-2VlheNhRWngZBAntKNfcBqwphP8io5IWrgohUUPVmT1ymahK8SNVPRKHVejUUYgUs/s1600/2016-11-10+17.58.40-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWvCEBl6ds7iG3p7GkEmjoPUcgS8V4FLq9ecELy6eUf4emvqQ6keCBF5ncfIjDGI1H1Sl8JIemL-2VlheNhRWngZBAntKNfcBqwphP8io5IWrgohUUPVmT1ymahK8SNVPRKHVejUUYgUs/s320/2016-11-10+17.58.40-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 10th, 2016</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyk_HQ_TOeP21WtqJ3uotTUBTMZSLYn5Gby2UdnO9-jPo4v8U2zSEHbaeqZCX1Dvij7iEODRnMCCPOb53Jw9c6NkMQKRfgOquCbnkNHzLvtMdKww1fXCaAyIOe5uMaq93Am5ATxarinvZ/s1600/2016-12-10+16.45.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyk_HQ_TOeP21WtqJ3uotTUBTMZSLYn5Gby2UdnO9-jPo4v8U2zSEHbaeqZCX1Dvij7iEODRnMCCPOb53Jw9c6NkMQKRfgOquCbnkNHzLvtMdKww1fXCaAyIOe5uMaq93Am5ATxarinvZ/s320/2016-12-10+16.45.52.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 10th, 2016</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5DwfXOfIlsYUY0omiz3v2Y6H_WtBmunUNxf26JQuyOLW-lU9JdPPS_Ux_q04II1u0jX3oHTfl0ZMrw20ySjDL2r6Cg3K4-Yqi_CQM2GnAmrzBalANB6SIgbCzNqVpf7CIpN1fciAvZ8Q/s1600/IMG_3735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5DwfXOfIlsYUY0omiz3v2Y6H_WtBmunUNxf26JQuyOLW-lU9JdPPS_Ux_q04II1u0jX3oHTfl0ZMrw20ySjDL2r6Cg3K4-Yqi_CQM2GnAmrzBalANB6SIgbCzNqVpf7CIpN1fciAvZ8Q/s320/IMG_3735.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January 10th, 2017</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>He's everywhere! He's been on the move for months now. He is a speedy little crawler and an expert cruiser. He loves using his walker as well. He gets around so well, so it will be interesting to see when he chooses to walk. He's extremely determined and will take risks (ie. climbing over stools/boxes, through tunnels, into laundry bins!) in order to explore something that he finds interesting. He never stops moving. Even when he's sitting on a lap, his legs are kicking away. Diaper changes cause me to break a sweat, as I try to distract him or hold him down and get the diaper on at the same time. He's strong and very solidly built. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> At this point, he has tried everything in the food department. I generally stick to nutrient dense fruit, veggies, legumes, meat and nuts/seeds. He has had some cow's dairy (grass-fed plain yogurt) and goat and sheep's dairy (yogurt and goat cheese), but as a household, we limit cow's dairy products. He loves almond butter and has tried peanut butter numerous times. I add grass fed butter or coconut oil to his food (the fat helps his body assimilate protein and absorb vitamins and minerals). He seems to like almost everything he tries and still prefers foods that are less sweet. I usually spice up his food quite a bit -- he loves curried lentils (mild curry powder, garlic, turmeric, onions and other veggies). I'm breastfeeding on demand, so it's tough to say how often or how much he is drinking. He absolutely loves his milk and still seems to prefer it over solids. Being #3 and not having time to worry about it, I'm just taking his lead with food. Stress-free for all of us! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's a chatterbox! He babbles and talks to us constantly. When he sees or hears me, he will now say "mamamama". He will point to Teagan, Quinn, the dogs, my Dad (Grandpa), my mom (Atty) and Jenn and I when asked. He also says "da" for the dogs and will point out dogs in a book. He shakes his head 'no', but at this point, he seems to do it because he loves the reaction that he gets from others. The girls tend to be quite loud with him (which he loves), so he frequently shrieks and (happily) screams. He does understand some simple commands (ie. "come here"), but clearly chooses to ignore it when he is doing something more fun! He will often wave to someone when I say, "say hi to __". He will also wave and point to things that interest or excite him. Given his hearing loss, language acquisition is on our radar and frequently discussed. At this point, he is hitting all of his milestones. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He usually gets upset when I come home because he realizes that I've been gone. He has started to develop separation anxiety when I'm around as well. He will often cry when he is passed over to someone he doesn't know or when he's tired and wants me. He is left with our babysitter twice per week for a couple hours when I take the girls to their hockey and swimming class, but is comfortable with her now. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Sleep, or lack thereof, is the reason that I haven't been writing. I've decided that he is just a sh*tty sleeper. We have tried it all. He's a good-sized baby (20lbs) so he should easily be able to sleep for 12 hours without a feed. I do still feed him when he wakes at about 3/4am. There is no consistency to his night wakings, despite a consistent bedtime and nap routine. Some nights he will wake just once around 3am and then again for the day between 5:30-6am. On many other nights, he will wake 2-4x between 8pm-4am. I do not feed him in the late evening hours and we only go in to briefly soothe him if he is hysterically crying (otherwise, we let him settle himself). The sleep deprivation is depressing quite honestly. He is a happy and healthy baby and there really isn't a reason for the wakings. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The testing to determine his candidacy for a cochlear implant is nearly complete. After his MRI, we will need to make a decision. He has a hearing aid that he never wears. It frequently fell off, got pulled off or got eaten. His hearing loss is also so severe that the aid is likely not helping very much. He is essentially deaf in his left ear. It is clear to me that he has trouble localizing sound, but other than that, you would never be able to tell that he can't hear out of one ear. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He has surgery scheduled next week to repair his hypospadias. The surgery will take about 2 hours. They will need to reconstruct his urethra with his own tissues and move the hole of his pen!s to the correct spot. I'm feeling anxious about it, but know that he is in very good hands at Sick Kids. I had a call with the pre-anesthesia nurse this week, who explained our options for putting him under. I will be happy once it is finished and Logan is on the mend. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginWdOwGvXd8Zbs07kVP1Fba-uJCZ14IYQ-MAO4EOS_M3a_2BXAjxr7BFh9MTenmAcyigEy4OWSGG2g-uyo-uVJiLuCYwQeElY0pGMj00I4kDtNGQ72n4JdXQM03jdS8z-cVO9gVl2CG0b/s1600/2016-11-12+15.40.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginWdOwGvXd8Zbs07kVP1Fba-uJCZ14IYQ-MAO4EOS_M3a_2BXAjxr7BFh9MTenmAcyigEy4OWSGG2g-uyo-uVJiLuCYwQeElY0pGMj00I4kDtNGQ72n4JdXQM03jdS8z-cVO9gVl2CG0b/s320/2016-11-12+15.40.28.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasuLf0lXYQIZorKPFBhl29OnvyiMiGtNsCFeXlIr1f_p1vJee7HrRfFL2D5lgNYz1I3huK2CQhwu-8pl5Ybsl_fItOF3w-aPxPaFkB9fqrvmtizmfqcSu1qaq3s3WDFkyw2grqYxS8bYi/s1600/2016-11-12+15.46.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasuLf0lXYQIZorKPFBhl29OnvyiMiGtNsCFeXlIr1f_p1vJee7HrRfFL2D5lgNYz1I3huK2CQhwu-8pl5Ybsl_fItOF3w-aPxPaFkB9fqrvmtizmfqcSu1qaq3s3WDFkyw2grqYxS8bYi/s320/2016-11-12+15.46.37.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjhNXy0eKQ5drpYbL8rcsGNASij7Wfdt9LtOq5KNU6BcD7SfCRE2b4fCcVAcixGpD1dEefJ_4CfQPvmFSet5oR-SRNHdW4sU3d6Qmkm3f-8fYXvkCsh8LXOVEx6ZyQPiP86j5rVav-gzh/s1600/2016-11-13+10.58.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjhNXy0eKQ5drpYbL8rcsGNASij7Wfdt9LtOq5KNU6BcD7SfCRE2b4fCcVAcixGpD1dEefJ_4CfQPvmFSet5oR-SRNHdW4sU3d6Qmkm3f-8fYXvkCsh8LXOVEx6ZyQPiP86j5rVav-gzh/s320/2016-11-13+10.58.26.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He is happiest when he is playing<br />with these two :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqR-JtuNSPTT4Kl1Dl9SgdEpGmnaEdk94PPvqtX3Oi2IUNv4CnNPbVMygFDSV9JnGsuckodlAewrclOCnsaWBz4hz2-q8LQkxzIf_-gHKywei23MrWHYvv1a1PBewE5bEXGNR9vu_v1VVs/s1600/2016-11-18+12.43.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqR-JtuNSPTT4Kl1Dl9SgdEpGmnaEdk94PPvqtX3Oi2IUNv4CnNPbVMygFDSV9JnGsuckodlAewrclOCnsaWBz4hz2-q8LQkxzIf_-gHKywei23MrWHYvv1a1PBewE5bEXGNR9vu_v1VVs/s320/2016-11-18+12.43.21.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He loves pure veggie juices -- I have to<br />fight him for my green juice!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2IVb4cNqIOR82T25wcX1PmJnClFt_LMiyUtxGKZSWPNJ6LolIgKMav6RLn1ZbqXtOK8kG7zh3bYBbwYT7PlyWE_yysWqH5FHEL6a29rrYhzu98o-nidWjrAcUjPp9mtdzOGutrTPoVYv/s1600/2016-11-20+08.20.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2IVb4cNqIOR82T25wcX1PmJnClFt_LMiyUtxGKZSWPNJ6LolIgKMav6RLn1ZbqXtOK8kG7zh3bYBbwYT7PlyWE_yysWqH5FHEL6a29rrYhzu98o-nidWjrAcUjPp9mtdzOGutrTPoVYv/s320/2016-11-20+08.20.55.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYX0BkTWzq7u-9oqzqds6cYSqMYbwB-42J71xw3k_8Gbf-4iJafumI0WRjlvJS9LISMWvbPKtFAFW5rhQ5ZG3lNsCkvVNZBmUIp9ga5BRh-4gKLp5RUK8iSRQB_wQW2mswD0dLOQNM_0y/s1600/2016-11-20+08.27.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYX0BkTWzq7u-9oqzqds6cYSqMYbwB-42J71xw3k_8Gbf-4iJafumI0WRjlvJS9LISMWvbPKtFAFW5rhQ5ZG3lNsCkvVNZBmUIp9ga5BRh-4gKLp5RUK8iSRQB_wQW2mswD0dLOQNM_0y/s320/2016-11-20+08.27.03.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excited to take Christmas photos!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXrICaEzTks6PODxHELny9EbRUjYetGvptG_68MgGhDa_9hbabEdOiXpLr-wqN1SmbT-s8BV8ZfCu6RhPeLB-pttJaFHNX1JuO-1SFF34SZkAjiiVkFN_ims7P-DwRSdO7BdVxgli1HhL/s1600/2016-11-23+13.04.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXrICaEzTks6PODxHELny9EbRUjYetGvptG_68MgGhDa_9hbabEdOiXpLr-wqN1SmbT-s8BV8ZfCu6RhPeLB-pttJaFHNX1JuO-1SFF34SZkAjiiVkFN_ims7P-DwRSdO7BdVxgli1HhL/s320/2016-11-23+13.04.44.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hRXweUKgIgdzNlptcGhIwJdLNQ9wiQH4Lc3Y7i2_SCCn-Lxj669c5jaFg3kROGoWc64xPoUCDb5vNPnhoZ3VVgLTrhlLJZd3WyVCfS1Mymx_zhZqgwmv90n4_Bz2CDVbHVkJGvOaPUWo/s1600/2016-11-27+12.33.04+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hRXweUKgIgdzNlptcGhIwJdLNQ9wiQH4Lc3Y7i2_SCCn-Lxj669c5jaFg3kROGoWc64xPoUCDb5vNPnhoZ3VVgLTrhlLJZd3WyVCfS1Mymx_zhZqgwmv90n4_Bz2CDVbHVkJGvOaPUWo/s320/2016-11-27+12.33.04+HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brunch with Grandpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTklv2ddmQ3pKPXEvI0mOXw-s_opmaZj0FhoEXxdX3Accu5BJ7fMuZ2sk9hDt-7iOB3219PSDCk5IdoPitTvAVgYhNA8iEcaNG8qpMmkU69gofFfGT4bLEvTlpkh7SkxInCOtSWvCIvtCS/s1600/2016-12-04+18.42.10-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTklv2ddmQ3pKPXEvI0mOXw-s_opmaZj0FhoEXxdX3Accu5BJ7fMuZ2sk9hDt-7iOB3219PSDCk5IdoPitTvAVgYhNA8iEcaNG8qpMmkU69gofFfGT4bLEvTlpkh7SkxInCOtSWvCIvtCS/s320/2016-12-04+18.42.10-1.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0BvaQanijNDZtsIZUR8K5r74JwGABNMe2rUq9ShLUpgfcRJOZrT_jCVRE0Iw3P1tBkOH5DxR9Dtn94AxCz8RB_tXszE5xskAo-xh6b1OUz-BuCMsL7efGUWcf0PqFz3wNQPd5Pchgg7c/s1600/2016-12-10+15.28.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0BvaQanijNDZtsIZUR8K5r74JwGABNMe2rUq9ShLUpgfcRJOZrT_jCVRE0Iw3P1tBkOH5DxR9Dtn94AxCz8RB_tXszE5xskAo-xh6b1OUz-BuCMsL7efGUWcf0PqFz3wNQPd5Pchgg7c/s320/2016-12-10+15.28.49.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Face off with Riley and his smelly licks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKGquCQPbU3R0rF1FEVgpCBgNNl9zslFuP8Nytl5FLMWcg_hYZpNlYeHwOwIdH-wsqyR6RTuc8Z2Ejh_LdPZ-nbTGoXGZmZriLgr60QnLeUIyosnmBFTaSWQO7Y8lsrdNuP8cHlaWtBpe/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKGquCQPbU3R0rF1FEVgpCBgNNl9zslFuP8Nytl5FLMWcg_hYZpNlYeHwOwIdH-wsqyR6RTuc8Z2Ejh_LdPZ-nbTGoXGZmZriLgr60QnLeUIyosnmBFTaSWQO7Y8lsrdNuP8cHlaWtBpe/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milk coma -- I will enjoy them for as long as I can</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7fIBfYryLMP_vP66p8DCaYwTQKxixnN1LKMro7DtvldW5WGbD0UkewtVpabVmpkkiHPc_TwjWXyUPDr0aDUnlZDc8WlJVQbgT7VwoUBJSdmSSOLIwDg1-qMNWed418IXjl-H4gzCWyz8/s1600/IMG_3250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7fIBfYryLMP_vP66p8DCaYwTQKxixnN1LKMro7DtvldW5WGbD0UkewtVpabVmpkkiHPc_TwjWXyUPDr0aDUnlZDc8WlJVQbgT7VwoUBJSdmSSOLIwDg1-qMNWed418IXjl-H4gzCWyz8/s320/IMG_3250.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of his favourite places is in our<br />front window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EfVabQVHKyGkxgEN4-sXVJ6rYhdyGX5latiGZ1HrNhnqH1Bp9qGfnQIE_VWqoWNuLHLG-MCEswQN6SylEm3Xdl922MTyoYCCMihDyjW-X_2PTcBxJpYfncqrCiiq8cGnYiEqiiiA9ga_/s1600/IMG_3262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EfVabQVHKyGkxgEN4-sXVJ6rYhdyGX5latiGZ1HrNhnqH1Bp9qGfnQIE_VWqoWNuLHLG-MCEswQN6SylEm3Xdl922MTyoYCCMihDyjW-X_2PTcBxJpYfncqrCiiq8cGnYiEqiiiA9ga_/s320/IMG_3262.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8OJygn23TlBa49jyy7A-sjcmv2Q4NE7MiHirJkcKIzhRY-7atfkiAm3ez7FG50vIsywUoZ5xqdqZfw4iqo59XlmFZ6BhGSVIsPO-hOMnZL6-GIcb3hEv5O2myrXOqp9x-gbEZ8emJrdB/s1600/IMG_3318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8OJygn23TlBa49jyy7A-sjcmv2Q4NE7MiHirJkcKIzhRY-7atfkiAm3ez7FG50vIsywUoZ5xqdqZfw4iqo59XlmFZ6BhGSVIsPO-hOMnZL6-GIcb3hEv5O2myrXOqp9x-gbEZ8emJrdB/s320/IMG_3318.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bFUQ3k_vr_qb0EoE5Miqx-GUKTasQlXZCTuLqjdyR2R7kgmrIuHOq0BUf_MzYNzo_5cCLoqCnwg3x9_CAxtPv4FDUfnFw3e8rEzFAgVmDtIqWY5pBrdmJORE_ad7SlbEoZAjD_Q9fTOS/s1600/IMG_3320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bFUQ3k_vr_qb0EoE5Miqx-GUKTasQlXZCTuLqjdyR2R7kgmrIuHOq0BUf_MzYNzo_5cCLoqCnwg3x9_CAxtPv4FDUfnFw3e8rEzFAgVmDtIqWY5pBrdmJORE_ad7SlbEoZAjD_Q9fTOS/s320/IMG_3320.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFeGlq-Ogi01eEOS1LD7Uz3_4Wv_Agxo43Al6ra2IuY9WK5jpGXtqgXlblYonoXgFcy4kOjoBtqTEAcSHNP0lX7IVo7a6_0j2Xw4gXo6tOS1Jf59h36w1t-gkYIn5cXAAglZf5_8ZYF04/s1600/IMG_3329.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFeGlq-Ogi01eEOS1LD7Uz3_4Wv_Agxo43Al6ra2IuY9WK5jpGXtqgXlblYonoXgFcy4kOjoBtqTEAcSHNP0lX7IVo7a6_0j2Xw4gXo6tOS1Jf59h36w1t-gkYIn5cXAAglZf5_8ZYF04/s320/IMG_3329.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nap? No nap.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KesjQ0rFiE6HtPdse74XUJvniqfFByiK_BnmpO5rtv_Htb4nUOIGlNDq8Y3lRYYeSL8F1kWSjlKfiiSOtwkT3Ac1G0z5tiSgj59KoMAcHBc202QlNKPkciL55pCO-hHx4EOv37ES41o1/s1600/IMG_3351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KesjQ0rFiE6HtPdse74XUJvniqfFByiK_BnmpO5rtv_Htb4nUOIGlNDq8Y3lRYYeSL8F1kWSjlKfiiSOtwkT3Ac1G0z5tiSgj59KoMAcHBc202QlNKPkciL55pCO-hHx4EOv37ES41o1/s320/IMG_3351.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for Santa on Christmas Eve</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSh5VYmI45zWNzASfc0vdINVnOhxmCj0TkpgS4tQlh1RlgBzQlrg3IlmjbJSlGfoXXFBKpgHjV1_4fV7DIfLij3ns99MBlPL7nTij8E4ID-hPjMlV_TAmqG2AFDfcPrPleyimPcw0dHCwl/s1600/IMG_3360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSh5VYmI45zWNzASfc0vdINVnOhxmCj0TkpgS4tQlh1RlgBzQlrg3IlmjbJSlGfoXXFBKpgHjV1_4fV7DIfLij3ns99MBlPL7nTij8E4ID-hPjMlV_TAmqG2AFDfcPrPleyimPcw0dHCwl/s320/IMG_3360.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas photos with my amazing friend and photographer,<br />Lauren.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8Vq3wlB3AEIgK0G1yCoPLHRmxayQCAoChl85ZU0NylOZFM2YYIECpHbbrz2p_xJaT8H-MkglC4f2Cz80Y9G1GqXmrHZ3niJ0cWu99IGborSo3dHYFAIlSopd22mrtxhqttWjWF4hZbVc/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8Vq3wlB3AEIgK0G1yCoPLHRmxayQCAoChl85ZU0NylOZFM2YYIECpHbbrz2p_xJaT8H-MkglC4f2Cz80Y9G1GqXmrHZ3niJ0cWu99IGborSo3dHYFAIlSopd22mrtxhqttWjWF4hZbVc/s320/IMG_3397.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crawling through his present from Santa!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWorysTnJc9XlVHkKUAOWwL8zOiIPeTLUBLsgaS9cjqqYS8cWznJie7tzkyKCAudGB0V4DZYjASA8yEjxzDc9rO70pOyn4YQQsPyO7VZST91tsdF-d4x2fZCuyCqOi_arNfx67Irumls-/s1600/IMG_3438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWorysTnJc9XlVHkKUAOWwL8zOiIPeTLUBLsgaS9cjqqYS8cWznJie7tzkyKCAudGB0V4DZYjASA8yEjxzDc9rO70pOyn4YQQsPyO7VZST91tsdF-d4x2fZCuyCqOi_arNfx67Irumls-/s320/IMG_3438.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Day with his cousin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbO9s6hmjV4B5ZjCZ3u4ht00xxywouEtANJy9ciE4HS3o2dGkIeGvvUHiYFibltlpb5tlT6Ne7l4Kf0-YBoFKGxZy1m4lw1tTeapGwajJESfMnTRWlI9jv-PMyKRV2SqFNmMwBssrISuo/s1600/IMG_3485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbO9s6hmjV4B5ZjCZ3u4ht00xxywouEtANJy9ciE4HS3o2dGkIeGvvUHiYFibltlpb5tlT6Ne7l4Kf0-YBoFKGxZy1m4lw1tTeapGwajJESfMnTRWlI9jv-PMyKRV2SqFNmMwBssrISuo/s320/IMG_3485.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4E2iuLo_yTfjgNtcvQt1CjV0IMeKWKJ5T4FjZch6r_ysdNuxcbFY6qiKVaQTga1OsumdkhRfrYYKyjy1lto7DIYRLPHxY9CgoY9COPfUbO5GLA0v8KaNoNGxlJ5hYix_xRYi8OE-gX22i/s1600/IMG_3487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4E2iuLo_yTfjgNtcvQt1CjV0IMeKWKJ5T4FjZch6r_ysdNuxcbFY6qiKVaQTga1OsumdkhRfrYYKyjy1lto7DIYRLPHxY9CgoY9COPfUbO5GLA0v8KaNoNGxlJ5hYix_xRYi8OE-gX22i/s320/IMG_3487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvU7SEcLjRL3l1d9gqCyOMiAhtrLWEAuRTE7ABnd6buhzxaUMJbW4xmb0BLlQ4-8xSmFlE0uPeCNLOuIc8q9fUAKVQ0MrtZZlEETB7mr8If9bUhswqLi2r7Z-5PABeCxhojrkBFUwYsSe/s1600/IMG_3512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvU7SEcLjRL3l1d9gqCyOMiAhtrLWEAuRTE7ABnd6buhzxaUMJbW4xmb0BLlQ4-8xSmFlE0uPeCNLOuIc8q9fUAKVQ0MrtZZlEETB7mr8If9bUhswqLi2r7Z-5PABeCxhojrkBFUwYsSe/s320/IMG_3512.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSZVPbvGFxh4L9GbFAVWzDMX6Fd8Bd0vf0S36z6gkSWeGqTFF44uuqKeYbVA_WAs_2_MoW5B9lBpayCl4-B1W_kAjBkECzpIOr4GrX09dd0gzwVs-0bY7WZ_RGgR76E8N58eAA5Rh9R-R/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSZVPbvGFxh4L9GbFAVWzDMX6Fd8Bd0vf0S36z6gkSWeGqTFF44uuqKeYbVA_WAs_2_MoW5B9lBpayCl4-B1W_kAjBkECzpIOr4GrX09dd0gzwVs-0bY7WZ_RGgR76E8N58eAA5Rh9R-R/s320/IMG_3521.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxshSMrFZYtlVs3Q7Mey-psHLnMZNxJORG2JtZFC2ylEkQLBABJ0fvfb1PH2D2GmR5VbT8E218I0q38d3Q0hRYgSJzwyQ3OGZMHtNr78cLDr25btrjBzXaaup-Gr0XS9POvV8tFYDSLGDA/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxshSMrFZYtlVs3Q7Mey-psHLnMZNxJORG2JtZFC2ylEkQLBABJ0fvfb1PH2D2GmR5VbT8E218I0q38d3Q0hRYgSJzwyQ3OGZMHtNr78cLDr25btrjBzXaaup-Gr0XS9POvV8tFYDSLGDA/s320/IMG_3562.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKq99GPlt1eG3eHKhRPgxhMrwCAXKh3A8yaEgMOCulChcl0gibAII7iGWFmsKiP26qK7hDzB7awYJt434VxC-1NV6Hopa-Ow1QKyEAGla3n4mO0f-KLS8GksNzZjvhRmSBFTZ8p0vVDDcF/s1600/IMG_3593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKq99GPlt1eG3eHKhRPgxhMrwCAXKh3A8yaEgMOCulChcl0gibAII7iGWFmsKiP26qK7hDzB7awYJt434VxC-1NV6Hopa-Ow1QKyEAGla3n4mO0f-KLS8GksNzZjvhRmSBFTZ8p0vVDDcF/s320/IMG_3593.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planes, trains and automobiles...prepping<br />for Florida.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOjjyhKjXjvu3H21cHpJk3Gtd3HkzUNccdB3MADqfgoJqT6wKFq_hWJBycq6rw3V6guqn9jXZO3FxMxNm6UHw3Bb2I4bmzWIYDekFIJwpSjwBeWxtNKDXN2q-Lkl8gGnh2hbYDf5PzGx6/s1600/IMG_3594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOjjyhKjXjvu3H21cHpJk3Gtd3HkzUNccdB3MADqfgoJqT6wKFq_hWJBycq6rw3V6guqn9jXZO3FxMxNm6UHw3Bb2I4bmzWIYDekFIJwpSjwBeWxtNKDXN2q-Lkl8gGnh2hbYDf5PzGx6/s320/IMG_3594.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how Logie went through<br />US Immigration</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXW_bkk0y7yDFKQ25ulaBzjqmGngEYuC_kQCemQzQQ0hhj6_vOsZCJDKDGl4-IoRzBPHXjOnSi39asdwdeBNLXo9yiWSZ3fv3L07qNR6wMt8ixbKsUwsFXv2lIekCiSvPlykp3hwTq34sv/s1600/IMG_3609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXW_bkk0y7yDFKQ25ulaBzjqmGngEYuC_kQCemQzQQ0hhj6_vOsZCJDKDGl4-IoRzBPHXjOnSi39asdwdeBNLXo9yiWSZ3fv3L07qNR6wMt8ixbKsUwsFXv2lIekCiSvPlykp3hwTq34sv/s320/IMG_3609.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are happy to be in Florida!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlN2qe3wOifXRWMMWFE41DKFsQbndGL3on7L4o6TNdd5woaBnDc3mGfRBjaKtlh8IFW-JlGZznDM3vRvVX9vY6_I0erZUMSs44S5ll_JT8Q4RY_eXzAzGOysmZYDJ-zUcxvjBSpNsjiTE/s1600/IMG_3632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlN2qe3wOifXRWMMWFE41DKFsQbndGL3on7L4o6TNdd5woaBnDc3mGfRBjaKtlh8IFW-JlGZznDM3vRvVX9vY6_I0erZUMSs44S5ll_JT8Q4RY_eXzAzGOysmZYDJ-zUcxvjBSpNsjiTE/s320/IMG_3632.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOauA504DCfbH-pg581jUyQhgKlzopgSbzk_e3mOLruTb09SASvIcxqhhATLDW34NH4NeVaLaS1nostlZetr-8PybE1lFTCS4mPVdIEXB_iZeWTagDkG4Q12pdz1YLEU6LA61ILLZisUY/s1600/IMG_3637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOauA504DCfbH-pg581jUyQhgKlzopgSbzk_e3mOLruTb09SASvIcxqhhATLDW34NH4NeVaLaS1nostlZetr-8PybE1lFTCS4mPVdIEXB_iZeWTagDkG4Q12pdz1YLEU6LA61ILLZisUY/s320/IMG_3637.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to board the Disney cruise ship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kRTEsH8YO_ASJ1UEOfn1MKmzNlwAJum-f9d5zPcXiLUICUkOA90dpy-CYB4_FWq_9AA0veTOQyxveHPB289wObjfsMSFBy8WLDbn5GRHpc8rMQ8TlWroLp8oaWbFo-v-yeDKwCd8E-Wk/s1600/IMG_3668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kRTEsH8YO_ASJ1UEOfn1MKmzNlwAJum-f9d5zPcXiLUICUkOA90dpy-CYB4_FWq_9AA0veTOQyxveHPB289wObjfsMSFBy8WLDbn5GRHpc8rMQ8TlWroLp8oaWbFo-v-yeDKwCd8E-Wk/s320/IMG_3668.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sailing away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXSYu1q5kPdHmINTn8ojA4NIWb3sIeaTRjSUG6_v74B3f2oEU0o_mKOoLnYoFo9le4YrKTXh-TSiTdsFYkGFMNDvKBPZjSVofhg5MYmLbMZBckXg4E5Dg__GYOcK3oRXRJ55GturX_TM7/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXSYu1q5kPdHmINTn8ojA4NIWb3sIeaTRjSUG6_v74B3f2oEU0o_mKOoLnYoFo9le4YrKTXh-TSiTdsFYkGFMNDvKBPZjSVofhg5MYmLbMZBckXg4E5Dg__GYOcK3oRXRJ55GturX_TM7/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water baby in the Bahamas!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzBUkDFwaZzuo8apDfXmXxY_WlmDbN2DLdD3rppJM1ow2LOWjc_m5EF1Z6sahGcXDe6i_Mt7NAUzqkEGTgHTNXuJbS6-GdUJlWaofJsW6AHMbKLcxcffy8Q_6z0EsHBh7z3dpRbYrZSBc/s1600/IMG_3764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzBUkDFwaZzuo8apDfXmXxY_WlmDbN2DLdD3rppJM1ow2LOWjc_m5EF1Z6sahGcXDe6i_Mt7NAUzqkEGTgHTNXuJbS6-GdUJlWaofJsW6AHMbKLcxcffy8Q_6z0EsHBh7z3dpRbYrZSBc/s320/IMG_3764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopbuBweTez7_go3WNvKhbJrdL6J-apx6k_Etvu1dVFOg3PUwKXvfkHXEffJh2O_7OKwMMtztb_8md2dC5XYdOLO1bPFq4zYOpf3-_wGxM7V66uqI6SZ3ZcR21onbz0mcGxF8qAB975o8p/s1600/IMG_3815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopbuBweTez7_go3WNvKhbJrdL6J-apx6k_Etvu1dVFOg3PUwKXvfkHXEffJh2O_7OKwMMtztb_8md2dC5XYdOLO1bPFq4zYOpf3-_wGxM7V66uqI6SZ3ZcR21onbz0mcGxF8qAB975o8p/s320/IMG_3815.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLe8Owf7LjlWZq7LHpe1iyP66JOHAE6dbZ_dyafoycy7RFXP2c7Iid1KFB4eGkI36PAghS1zcnxB8yeIvX0zr6kTTKZ0xBkIZsYczAtHfAr3bC4ioDyWkiJpwVhsD42wBK58h2Xnd5KT3G/s1600/IMG_3867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLe8Owf7LjlWZq7LHpe1iyP66JOHAE6dbZ_dyafoycy7RFXP2c7Iid1KFB4eGkI36PAghS1zcnxB8yeIvX0zr6kTTKZ0xBkIZsYczAtHfAr3bC4ioDyWkiJpwVhsD42wBK58h2Xnd5KT3G/s320/IMG_3867.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final night of the cruise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEM88modkmHTgi500h3kKKpec3w2VYqrR2DXmAq5Ir7z6E6DJggEJYaqBN5KTxpoWdhQQnuBYHjNSmQ5zLSafN0dpJtWYgh6EP3hrfE9XlD0atnxHhqd_RfwWvkLlpPgec5YFqRJZAMcv/s1600/IMG_3889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEM88modkmHTgi500h3kKKpec3w2VYqrR2DXmAq5Ir7z6E6DJggEJYaqBN5KTxpoWdhQQnuBYHjNSmQ5zLSafN0dpJtWYgh6EP3hrfE9XlD0atnxHhqd_RfwWvkLlpPgec5YFqRJZAMcv/s320/IMG_3889.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWl1Dje2RAhsLr1Ohs_bZuIPT0QfwsQ3ogkQmPG8qpYBFhkv6ShHDZHdyEylBjuvMbW9NZaKlavl77SOteFD6sQwPkkmHH2gVuylCGSOVhthgKgmwHZzhnJov3Hp_8lukmp9f7l5I0e0I/s1600/IMG_3905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWl1Dje2RAhsLr1Ohs_bZuIPT0QfwsQ3ogkQmPG8qpYBFhkv6ShHDZHdyEylBjuvMbW9NZaKlavl77SOteFD6sQwPkkmHH2gVuylCGSOVhthgKgmwHZzhnJov3Hp_8lukmp9f7l5I0e0I/s320/IMG_3905.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hbeTXCGtQz7hPcYwBUlvHOaZdLwTvsF-egcnIvNKdzq5rQNU04T-aWmCcoqwJVeHDSvQ1E_-7draAbtnSqVqAgyLjFJ1PETr04VmKUQAtIcq4xDTi3kklUicPIeq76FIijXCg_S-TxH4/s1600/IMG_3913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hbeTXCGtQz7hPcYwBUlvHOaZdLwTvsF-egcnIvNKdzq5rQNU04T-aWmCcoqwJVeHDSvQ1E_-7draAbtnSqVqAgyLjFJ1PETr04VmKUQAtIcq4xDTi3kklUicPIeq76FIijXCg_S-TxH4/s320/IMG_3913.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He figured this one out on his own</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoFE8W8eQ9q7yhxSNq0Xuol-JUcdnFQcMF46jl1yR48o0hfzL1aHEy_W7b04aXGmpsYIDXFJ1G7z2GmEMXHqSJQwuCRao8fUfOeTenCMFKR_RxsuJnzT8UHlqBWffGIzr2KUIM60y3mw6f/s1600/IMG_3916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoFE8W8eQ9q7yhxSNq0Xuol-JUcdnFQcMF46jl1yR48o0hfzL1aHEy_W7b04aXGmpsYIDXFJ1G7z2GmEMXHqSJQwuCRao8fUfOeTenCMFKR_RxsuJnzT8UHlqBWffGIzr2KUIM60y3mw6f/s320/IMG_3916.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sumo squats with Atty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKuZJIMFJ1kFDVxd592amzLLukIyUGrJ5fJHG-gOZkKhnliGMwLSRI8BU1djaUgzAnB-gFQcE9wxq2-ND9wRLw5RL1J2cEgzbLFWXP1amf8RmXDEdVIcy9IKB1rLzHHtxpFSqKcJXd-X8/s1600/IMG_3931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKuZJIMFJ1kFDVxd592amzLLukIyUGrJ5fJHG-gOZkKhnliGMwLSRI8BU1djaUgzAnB-gFQcE9wxq2-ND9wRLw5RL1J2cEgzbLFWXP1amf8RmXDEdVIcy9IKB1rLzHHtxpFSqKcJXd-X8/s320/IMG_3931.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLZEupOJ98izSROki3OLZ582emtbNIb8I8RDaz_VGqp6Jch_05QqDJx8BmRtDHlM_LHiY5loUG4Ta0D4JhTQTmZXpr6ob0Fnaz59qRq1BjHpSScMLVADz4Eq9j2QCJsiiy_Ai7WZ02pmO/s1600/IMG_3936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLZEupOJ98izSROki3OLZ582emtbNIb8I8RDaz_VGqp6Jch_05QqDJx8BmRtDHlM_LHiY5loUG4Ta0D4JhTQTmZXpr6ob0Fnaz59qRq1BjHpSScMLVADz4Eq9j2QCJsiiy_Ai7WZ02pmO/s320/IMG_3936.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-69A1EcGMmHArYlwSJVWH2D13p9Kou5XUG6nmKky8nNy4KdmDdKZCRP5dbI177ne3waOKLCa-zYXTVAp5vM-dMJjt9KzPEqAtqFaXmUYdeqQzWZ9XBhYQA4SQbzFHXnThKbyWTnQjmG_W/s1600/IMG_4005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-69A1EcGMmHArYlwSJVWH2D13p9Kou5XUG6nmKky8nNy4KdmDdKZCRP5dbI177ne3waOKLCa-zYXTVAp5vM-dMJjt9KzPEqAtqFaXmUYdeqQzWZ9XBhYQA4SQbzFHXnThKbyWTnQjmG_W/s320/IMG_4005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1PkSqYZHeMqJKUEHVCt5qWgblmpU4JaygTVGBscLk6IF8AjAN4ahnEMmsWD-FxvjRZGWy5Ki1-mFiwQ2596JaRSpIE15ISkzpjDegYHeyaWFF0ddkrg3xcvVpsrGU_c4VRdRhSstz_eN/s1600/IMG_4007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1PkSqYZHeMqJKUEHVCt5qWgblmpU4JaygTVGBscLk6IF8AjAN4ahnEMmsWD-FxvjRZGWy5Ki1-mFiwQ2596JaRSpIE15ISkzpjDegYHeyaWFF0ddkrg3xcvVpsrGU_c4VRdRhSstz_eN/s320/IMG_4007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7B1C9FqiUmPKbcxpaFoVQD2ZPGiVtfQNQ0pVJVDYAdVPiwFrkFjR7roi4gMU5M2WJpjYoy8BHU9ZAL4n3Ufm9rfSlehLad1MqkgCw8ikvcwsj3goma3q2kCvZ368RAIbUdnnrFU1kRUnq/s1600/IMG_4016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7B1C9FqiUmPKbcxpaFoVQD2ZPGiVtfQNQ0pVJVDYAdVPiwFrkFjR7roi4gMU5M2WJpjYoy8BHU9ZAL4n3Ufm9rfSlehLad1MqkgCw8ikvcwsj3goma3q2kCvZ368RAIbUdnnrFU1kRUnq/s320/IMG_4016.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-21476872945913068652016-10-13T13:37:00.001-04:002016-10-13T13:37:37.971-04:008 Months Old!Our little man is 8 months old! This past month has seen quite a few changes in Logan.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEintCbSlCA2h8xthOI69cwIw776bxKFPPTuIHU5iBc3kC_TPB297_tK13-kcey4M2TBPQj-gdvHKYcOIBXlSSC30ctf_5m5X5DTVFXw0E1mdLm3YNy1HPhq2__drjnJWLGKL_HzxauMsc/s1600/IMG_2185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEintCbSlCA2h8xthOI69cwIw776bxKFPPTuIHU5iBc3kC_TPB297_tK13-kcey4M2TBPQj-gdvHKYcOIBXlSSC30ctf_5m5X5DTVFXw0E1mdLm3YNy1HPhq2__drjnJWLGKL_HzxauMsc/s320/IMG_2185.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>He's on the verge of crawling. He is up on his hands and knees constantly. He rocks back and forth and tries to take a step forward. He hasn't quite figured out the coordination of his arms and legs. His determination is shining through though, as he is not easily frustrated. He can also now get himself up to sitting and is incredibly proud of himself for doing so! He's a rolling and scooting machine. He manages to get himself across the floor quickly and is motivated by a toy that is just out of his reach. He's been trying hard to pull himself up and will grab onto anything in sight. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We've been battling sleep for a while, as I've mentioned in previous posts. Things got progressively worse from about 4 months onward. For a while we were co-sleeping. Part of me loved it, but eventually, I wasn't getting any sleep and I became his soother all night long. We moved him into his own room and things improved slightly, but then got worse again. In the last 6 weeks or so, there were nights when he would be up every 1-2 hours -- worse than a newborn! On a "good" night, he would be up 3 times. We hit the sleep deprivation wall and spoke with a sleep consultant/doula last week. After a lengthy chat, she created a plan for us and sleep training commenced on Friday night. Things improved fast! My boobs are slowly adjusting to not feeding him through the night. We still go in and soothe him very briefly. Last night saw only one waking. We're on the road to more sleep and a happier Mommy! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's extremely alert and always watching what people are doing, particularly his sisters! He find the girls to be hilarious. They will make him smile or laugh when others can't. He will try to imitate sounds and actions -- he loves to bang his hands on his high chair or the floor. He will also mimic us when we stick out our tongues at him. The girls are convinced that he can say words. While this is not true, he will try to repeat sounds that they say -- "ma", "goo", "ba". When the dogs are around, he is usually fixated on them, finding the most random things hilarious. He broke out in the most fantastic belly laugh when the pups were running back and forth across the house. I'm trying to teach him how to pet the dogs gently. It is extremely important to me that my kids understand how to respect animals and read their body language. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He seems to really like music. We did a music class with some friends for over the summer and are currently doing a music class that is strictly for deaf and hearing impaired children. He is usually fixated on the instructors, who will often play the guitar. He loves banging on the drums or tambourines. Our current music teacher always incorporates bubbles, which are a huge hit. I've started singing to him before bed each night. He absolutely loves it, resting his head on my shoulder and doesn't seem to care that I don't have the best voice.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He is enjoying food a little bit more. I've forced him to eat some purees and now he will sit and let me feed him a few bites. He still prefers to feed himself. While baby-led weaning is easier, it's far messier. So far, his favourites seem to be sweet potato, broccoli and pears. He absolutely loved <a href="http://lovechildorganics.com/product/ratatouille-lentils-white-beans/">Love Child</a>'s ratatouille, which has lentils and beans in it. I gave him a taste of my homemade butternut squash soup the other day and he enjoyed that quite a bit. Interestingly, he was indifferent to an apple-blueberry puree. He usually eats twice a day, but is still a much bigger fan of his mommy milk.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNetXKjaZ0PFbvmQe0NK3KvhjZdngkkrGPcNzwHDHRwtF4LFmOP-FCzCCZN_ko8Mx67tAHjy2kW23HAEoiPs7g4s5ZqXviQAVaCGmMiNCI4eMzqBFzLgyRUCIuP4im-1F2huWMPKHn2FPE/s1600/IMG_1717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNetXKjaZ0PFbvmQe0NK3KvhjZdngkkrGPcNzwHDHRwtF4LFmOP-FCzCCZN_ko8Mx67tAHjy2kW23HAEoiPs7g4s5ZqXviQAVaCGmMiNCI4eMzqBFzLgyRUCIuP4im-1F2huWMPKHn2FPE/s320/IMG_1717.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
A chat with his best buddy...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7KeJi0IcAM9rq6JUQBcYLLUzj-KbzgL11PMvxcfQbpXgA654UMz6yv0jOYMBdRXUTLyV9VqUjQiGUHc3wq_rw29voHM6-4mU0aFe4RKd_ZhZDs9KxrHUZb7mahHesDgesoIX1OasS5An/s1600/IMG_1722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7KeJi0IcAM9rq6JUQBcYLLUzj-KbzgL11PMvxcfQbpXgA654UMz6yv0jOYMBdRXUTLyV9VqUjQiGUHc3wq_rw29voHM6-4mU0aFe4RKd_ZhZDs9KxrHUZb7mahHesDgesoIX1OasS5An/s320/IMG_1722.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCzwt_-1eYQ0vForqNQc6O5-1qrXhGLlPm0K-OyNbdLRUI00fC7Ra5eB-HWQNZyCIL21A6KSLe3crmybmbYXVoFq4wQkpk_yb9yzXI9S5N28_dmongo6A5ad_VWEROUz7TElK5Xl-Nyxw/s1600/IMG_1737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCzwt_-1eYQ0vForqNQc6O5-1qrXhGLlPm0K-OyNbdLRUI00fC7Ra5eB-HWQNZyCIL21A6KSLe3crmybmbYXVoFq4wQkpk_yb9yzXI9S5N28_dmongo6A5ad_VWEROUz7TElK5Xl-Nyxw/s320/IMG_1737.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0kw_qq8n6nMuFn9q08u9TCfrPonW5kxORlJunUPDky0eFs-rQKE2eiYzZXKZhHZP8OPNOZ_r7x9yrStOfwX5WFcBYL1ql7FbLWP6fA4aQL3do4j40na0YYDV52ym-HSRnnu5n50L4_aD/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0kw_qq8n6nMuFn9q08u9TCfrPonW5kxORlJunUPDky0eFs-rQKE2eiYzZXKZhHZP8OPNOZ_r7x9yrStOfwX5WFcBYL1ql7FbLWP6fA4aQL3do4j40na0YYDV52ym-HSRnnu5n50L4_aD/s320/IMG_1764.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugovAbh-cgkFFuBtzfaLg4op-mUySGPgC_IbarW2reV9N9iA4vP2fImffLSb36L50hSneD6zFuKqShjLqVexO2MHvdF_LOD4XN2BcOGHK3TIuHnOiORlanBcV9VKSydFdGfhmiKxGwH-f/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugovAbh-cgkFFuBtzfaLg4op-mUySGPgC_IbarW2reV9N9iA4vP2fImffLSb36L50hSneD6zFuKqShjLqVexO2MHvdF_LOD4XN2BcOGHK3TIuHnOiORlanBcV9VKSydFdGfhmiKxGwH-f/s320/IMG_1784.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2F6wERfaThC9tQyXqIr4AAScffDN3AsHKDmi6no9pMzIOMzL-Y5vIVu0X4gRkDvp5_FnmHQ0LrlNcLX4Zm7Dqm4VV_HfHay0PsFVRekysdoIMa7cbAgJfPLD8aXzhtccUXLp28a25Ha2/s1600/IMG_1788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2F6wERfaThC9tQyXqIr4AAScffDN3AsHKDmi6no9pMzIOMzL-Y5vIVu0X4gRkDvp5_FnmHQ0LrlNcLX4Zm7Dqm4VV_HfHay0PsFVRekysdoIMa7cbAgJfPLD8aXzhtccUXLp28a25Ha2/s320/IMG_1788.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUYfrsVOA3Jtvq1ZSE_oLgEHex5sZe2u7s_o6m5L6PZiB1ieLPpEkawG2ZKnaxL9WW8XqHdr7qp0jUwpC32hFnKX16mqCjic5wXyq_610T4kZjC1wCpT1cIFssPYlbZuTPPwchhJLtuEf/s1600/IMG_1796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUYfrsVOA3Jtvq1ZSE_oLgEHex5sZe2u7s_o6m5L6PZiB1ieLPpEkawG2ZKnaxL9WW8XqHdr7qp0jUwpC32hFnKX16mqCjic5wXyq_610T4kZjC1wCpT1cIFssPYlbZuTPPwchhJLtuEf/s320/IMG_1796.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7WxOcJ0-Ym9uNAQeufIJeab8wyvyUdLh4uyOkSCdCyki0Mxt-q5j7hNip08T4fxco5OHJRzGk1mDHy1eRnITGYnUNRu0Mg-SQK8JPcUWDviFAFBNW2KMEyTH4myNJhzKGfEV9r5qAgcp/s1600/IMG_1806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7WxOcJ0-Ym9uNAQeufIJeab8wyvyUdLh4uyOkSCdCyki0Mxt-q5j7hNip08T4fxco5OHJRzGk1mDHy1eRnITGYnUNRu0Mg-SQK8JPcUWDviFAFBNW2KMEyTH4myNJhzKGfEV9r5qAgcp/s320/IMG_1806.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Logan and his cousin enjoy some play time at yoga! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8AOvwhWuQ4B71GDAE8M2gOdN4GBf5_GJDwrEc5wCLG8dTx31kQDDYUekvNQT130Y5RUOzoIcoOaQv-M0UEfFbPLmqE9K1BL3M9OqYMqkH60u6CAQb9XT7FAqhcWV4BFSBe-aCb1K6q8BR/s1600/IMG_1830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8AOvwhWuQ4B71GDAE8M2gOdN4GBf5_GJDwrEc5wCLG8dTx31kQDDYUekvNQT130Y5RUOzoIcoOaQv-M0UEfFbPLmqE9K1BL3M9OqYMqkH60u6CAQb9XT7FAqhcWV4BFSBe-aCb1K6q8BR/s320/IMG_1830.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr7eO43oIfHbwsM6oOv1DdwSJnWdWPo5Zg3v1Ru7oLLrpbZ9IN8_kuVpRp6EdaE7zwCWTZ6_XdTwlgffmjQRJTAfr7_phgLtJPtyQScQNB5GLdOk-ptcOdxxFnjjnatb9Eb8aJr0BkSMI/s1600/IMG_1847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr7eO43oIfHbwsM6oOv1DdwSJnWdWPo5Zg3v1Ru7oLLrpbZ9IN8_kuVpRp6EdaE7zwCWTZ6_XdTwlgffmjQRJTAfr7_phgLtJPtyQScQNB5GLdOk-ptcOdxxFnjjnatb9Eb8aJr0BkSMI/s320/IMG_1847.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnFnM4Bcy6lKgCEl8RZ5eBDGp8TZzN-S4riJtYoIKhMP-rpbP2HwEh6noLWqxMf494IFC0yXmMsAqQcegGWgsvNncuwj0icV-1EwtepVaTZp-icyq9_pxnBhQ_DmFO-r4kAUW4xiY_YMe/s1600/IMG_1869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnFnM4Bcy6lKgCEl8RZ5eBDGp8TZzN-S4riJtYoIKhMP-rpbP2HwEh6noLWqxMf494IFC0yXmMsAqQcegGWgsvNncuwj0icV-1EwtepVaTZp-icyq9_pxnBhQ_DmFO-r4kAUW4xiY_YMe/s320/IMG_1869.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The dogs have been spending most of their time at my parents' house. We all miss them, but the help from my mom with the dog walking has been huge. He adores the dogs when they're around!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYFMV15F5fNusZphdhMRlJosble79NOzsqlQpZw6c5isBZHYWnlvFPISpKR56pvcTPOzjvqOl2uq_j7ut7Np8-OXnoAncS0J2Imzsl3a994noMKW7aQSw3ne8be6gSreBTZyDkmrS_ocY/s1600/IMG_1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYFMV15F5fNusZphdhMRlJosble79NOzsqlQpZw6c5isBZHYWnlvFPISpKR56pvcTPOzjvqOl2uq_j7ut7Np8-OXnoAncS0J2Imzsl3a994noMKW7aQSw3ne8be6gSreBTZyDkmrS_ocY/s320/IMG_1889.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidMshSNDWz5WUBzmKnD42_QH5vtBiEMSw92N3jQUDZRjdIUtReOGN8QMNHBouIQ-PpfKo-YG9Dz4Yg9ASEsKsBi1lKTefkPaNA9kdvO6qBAxQNH3I_4I8BYijT3Kcu2hwKJ3KMIO2gl8CE/s1600/IMG_1892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidMshSNDWz5WUBzmKnD42_QH5vtBiEMSw92N3jQUDZRjdIUtReOGN8QMNHBouIQ-PpfKo-YG9Dz4Yg9ASEsKsBi1lKTefkPaNA9kdvO6qBAxQNH3I_4I8BYijT3Kcu2hwKJ3KMIO2gl8CE/s320/IMG_1892.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSDmcPA3LkXlOKEhnXaPJA5qfyQbxaVnsDs1eRGmFo6_p0ERJsFaTitpUtWKmVFXzKyzPj1NOMZJ_e04uMHrp2GwfefBVGN8dGfbzLu0Zmp1om1bR-Ho6EtDF4e-UJLAxKzXmdsF5nVLL/s1600/IMG_1895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSDmcPA3LkXlOKEhnXaPJA5qfyQbxaVnsDs1eRGmFo6_p0ERJsFaTitpUtWKmVFXzKyzPj1NOMZJ_e04uMHrp2GwfefBVGN8dGfbzLu0Zmp1om1bR-Ho6EtDF4e-UJLAxKzXmdsF5nVLL/s320/IMG_1895.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Wjn1OA1J-lQKhQV_QCh_cresdJ82ZvwQxoCmU4hhC96vioExQ00aRD6q3AdkqUP4zsPlGpja_wj4QcZOS0DZZqAO7Jjw7Ag-TiWwNBEldWh7H3Z9RFIQWnEHnhPoo8YtfW_tvwYUKdw/s1600/IMG_1910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Wjn1OA1J-lQKhQV_QCh_cresdJ82ZvwQxoCmU4hhC96vioExQ00aRD6q3AdkqUP4zsPlGpja_wj4QcZOS0DZZqAO7Jjw7Ag-TiWwNBEldWh7H3Z9RFIQWnEHnhPoo8YtfW_tvwYUKdw/s320/IMG_1910.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
He enjoyed munching on an apple at the farm a few weeks back and hung out in the hay while the girls went down the slides. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgM8iFqSRqmrzo2vKMJQFLcw4D0LUUQxsAyPgbtuz6KYee2w6s0SJZ9FOO9JV0cY8Xi4yn3kk3HX1Jw3pTC3vuPxD_AkF-HRQGb-JJ3ataQpwEgwmNu97s3F7Dlek4OTNtzhtby-NBsEq/s1600/IMG_1918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgM8iFqSRqmrzo2vKMJQFLcw4D0LUUQxsAyPgbtuz6KYee2w6s0SJZ9FOO9JV0cY8Xi4yn3kk3HX1Jw3pTC3vuPxD_AkF-HRQGb-JJ3ataQpwEgwmNu97s3F7Dlek4OTNtzhtby-NBsEq/s320/IMG_1918.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmK5wQefL6NPcWVXZbFM-8sr6qq1NMfKJQ0Kd7CHgM90L0ILOoKxyFCGFDjEL-J9CHrR12IbkjEoB9w8zlA7rvHSPbdYwB2MDk8rPNEaOgN6iyIcPK8HAlgSGfNnS9vMQ05fHMdQB1d7Ma/s1600/IMG_1927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmK5wQefL6NPcWVXZbFM-8sr6qq1NMfKJQ0Kd7CHgM90L0ILOoKxyFCGFDjEL-J9CHrR12IbkjEoB9w8zlA7rvHSPbdYwB2MDk8rPNEaOgN6iyIcPK8HAlgSGfNnS9vMQ05fHMdQB1d7Ma/s320/IMG_1927.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDY2IK67ItRTdANHkbTVgud7bDucbnSLSeG1zPL2ElBXh7rjRkXlf7bsdIY_y-CNVpBRoNzZTVl5qoT0hWGC6XmeB9K9ivRe8GLTS3aNLSyDSE7WpNLcIKxcOcS0qbMiTActinrg1LmMvN/s1600/IMG_1928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDY2IK67ItRTdANHkbTVgud7bDucbnSLSeG1zPL2ElBXh7rjRkXlf7bsdIY_y-CNVpBRoNzZTVl5qoT0hWGC6XmeB9K9ivRe8GLTS3aNLSyDSE7WpNLcIKxcOcS0qbMiTActinrg1LmMvN/s320/IMG_1928.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
From May until just last week, we would spend one afternoon/early evening with friends hanging out at the farmers' market. The kids would eat delicious popsicles and play in the park and Logan would happily roll around on a blanket while watching the kids and the trees. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8VvadHReoHvYyG8FVXmtcfFX1VhPFZQUM7JVYfXVGAm9UMYxUtrkwkksnVFrCzNMWwx7hxFSjSCctmpd_KqaqIYPPsyybUodJQOKPfWt6OUtRYWsrPdIC0WPFBFGEzDw3LlhixoeXQXH/s1600/IMG_1950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8VvadHReoHvYyG8FVXmtcfFX1VhPFZQUM7JVYfXVGAm9UMYxUtrkwkksnVFrCzNMWwx7hxFSjSCctmpd_KqaqIYPPsyybUodJQOKPfWt6OUtRYWsrPdIC0WPFBFGEzDw3LlhixoeXQXH/s320/IMG_1950.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-62936247958510523122016-09-22T13:50:00.000-04:002016-09-22T13:50:04.206-04:00Food Before 1 Is Just For Fun (Round 2...)...or is it round 3?<br />
<br />
Logan has been eating solid foods for about a month now. Initially, I had planned to puree a few different fruits and veggies for the first couple of weeks, like I did with the girls. Then, I planned to move on to chunkier mixes and large pieces (baby-led feeding style). Logan had other plans.<br />
<br />
After weeks of watching us eat, I assumed that he would go nuts for solid food. I roasted and pureed some organic butternut squash. He opened his mouth, took in the tiniest bit of squash, gagged and then spit it out. He then acted grossed out and disinterested!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxGqHWmZSn-CiYt4RRfIqT1F3zqKiFIZspSk_pofOHsxPeKLDByRcZsIZTLCUjntjQ0XFH6j0c_mEfGmWlCdDLamtCq-GlqTrKcIcaaIo2yxdmnzflptz_qapyTALcZ7nmMmTu1g68Uiw/s1600/IMG_1023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxGqHWmZSn-CiYt4RRfIqT1F3zqKiFIZspSk_pofOHsxPeKLDByRcZsIZTLCUjntjQ0XFH6j0c_mEfGmWlCdDLamtCq-GlqTrKcIcaaIo2yxdmnzflptz_qapyTALcZ7nmMmTu1g68Uiw/s320/IMG_1023.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV9eJUxA4ru9I8zqpOvZ3wLCr8k9FQSoZrYU7sgKj8Rkl8xNFQDgFJHe03j6y0JXGtbm3tIpJwLvlbCrV6To0OHZwlmnI4SQsOfsDezja7qrygRaIb02lK7tMQ1LHmQaxnRTGvzt4xIMI/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV9eJUxA4ru9I8zqpOvZ3wLCr8k9FQSoZrYU7sgKj8Rkl8xNFQDgFJHe03j6y0JXGtbm3tIpJwLvlbCrV6To0OHZwlmnI4SQsOfsDezja7qrygRaIb02lK7tMQ1LHmQaxnRTGvzt4xIMI/s320/IMG_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After trying him with the squash for a few more days, I decided to hold off for another week or so.<br />
<br />
I quickly realized that the kid has no interest in being spoon fed (by me)! I've always loved Baby Led Weaning's motto, <i>"Food before one is just for fun"</i>, however I prefer to call it <i>'baby-led feeding'</i> because I have no interest in weaning him at this stage. <br />
<br />
He's a good-sized baby who is getting everything he needs from breast milk, so I decided to take a very laid-back approach to food. It's very messy. Sometimes he eats a little bit of food. Sometimes a lot. He's happy and loving it though. And messes can be cleaned up (I remind myself over and over again) :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEfdpFyygivn6ymcwLM8jF_xHqZmSNfBQWbiJafl_9X0lH_YIjwnWYmN3xVD6TKZIc4Q61Kx61tDfhpS1h3wT_bqACDvU-fwmX9aPlloMkHZw9T8_V8Uo2HWuLCB9sCuz1E6DIAVORojm/s1600/IMG_1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEfdpFyygivn6ymcwLM8jF_xHqZmSNfBQWbiJafl_9X0lH_YIjwnWYmN3xVD6TKZIc4Q61Kx61tDfhpS1h3wT_bqACDvU-fwmX9aPlloMkHZw9T8_V8Uo2HWuLCB9sCuz1E6DIAVORojm/s320/IMG_1203.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeding himself mashed avocado</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNmlxLT0IlhP3vXjt7hLvzWHBKKBZKY-Yn9C6LGiQPjhGHTPMmVbivcBpfDtOTbcjVekVoQQGcEc6PE5Br4S8956zFFSc65xFpXnizhfFmiRnXopfLkBwe53ERv28AAICxUT-1CXp807H/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNmlxLT0IlhP3vXjt7hLvzWHBKKBZKY-Yn9C6LGiQPjhGHTPMmVbivcBpfDtOTbcjVekVoQQGcEc6PE5Br4S8956zFFSc65xFpXnizhfFmiRnXopfLkBwe53ERv28AAICxUT-1CXp807H/s320/IMG_1233.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing with a carrot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNZkTWjkO8Ymz2h97EO31cdoYeBK_85a46aFqREw6n0L3RvEFu9ybHeaExTYes4MGSSAw8_hdHfjhFevvt2OcVqy5wR9PHzXCMgdZWIW0YCwlmJRI-oskj7PVGGzZ5bTjMTgir_H3aY7K/s1600/IMG_1328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNZkTWjkO8Ymz2h97EO31cdoYeBK_85a46aFqREw6n0L3RvEFu9ybHeaExTYes4MGSSAw8_hdHfjhFevvt2OcVqy5wR9PHzXCMgdZWIW0YCwlmJRI-oskj7PVGGzZ5bTjMTgir_H3aY7K/s320/IMG_1328.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold (peeled) apples for teething gums</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After a few weeks of mostly playing with different fruits and veggies, he figured out a way to grip the food and gnaw pieces off. It really has been a fascinating process to watch. He's a determined little guy. He did a great job of holding onto the peaches (pic below) in order to suck the juices out and even pull off little pieces. He only recently got a tooth (in the last few days) so he is completely toothless in all of the pictures in this post.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67Ig4a9N8op1RIf4-FlkvgXUB9c45Lb8ExZ2wETeHx8zpsU8JBcsmf9vnaUJt5ZBaCzT3snbPvytFsQVEuP8xJo28aElJahQx-JOlIGOVrOsFOHFkwbIiNGL2RBl0Lrkz1DmUT0xjqhx-/s1600/IMG_1510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67Ig4a9N8op1RIf4-FlkvgXUB9c45Lb8ExZ2wETeHx8zpsU8JBcsmf9vnaUJt5ZBaCzT3snbPvytFsQVEuP8xJo28aElJahQx-JOlIGOVrOsFOHFkwbIiNGL2RBl0Lrkz1DmUT0xjqhx-/s320/IMG_1510.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love this series from his first experience with broccoli. Clearly unsure, he decides to try it anyways and ends up loving it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qyto9JHw-WCuxOxfdI3iMWoVgpR7g6fhmSnTTiX8Xt7IqDr0TwF0mwU_oFyMsdgSPKL4aCxb4OSoaP-UoihlOS0sscC7Cx4ipaRyECBQZqwro_IMFe1ImxghT8E_wvwd4SM0oB-r3ej8/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qyto9JHw-WCuxOxfdI3iMWoVgpR7g6fhmSnTTiX8Xt7IqDr0TwF0mwU_oFyMsdgSPKL4aCxb4OSoaP-UoihlOS0sscC7Cx4ipaRyECBQZqwro_IMFe1ImxghT8E_wvwd4SM0oB-r3ej8/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGNQyiX9zU_seVtLetj9MxT9zGnJOofy1n_dUWTu2a_0nVbVo-c52P4oxkpllZfa2GQ3E6gMShxDCdJfpXlJ4MJHZZGk9lyoWJ6XQSkVjW04_CKxn-6AyAA2x05bLrbtGDAOD7j0XmyPy/s1600/IMG_1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGNQyiX9zU_seVtLetj9MxT9zGnJOofy1n_dUWTu2a_0nVbVo-c52P4oxkpllZfa2GQ3E6gMShxDCdJfpXlJ4MJHZZGk9lyoWJ6XQSkVjW04_CKxn-6AyAA2x05bLrbtGDAOD7j0XmyPy/s320/IMG_1544.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzlFRwZd2imZxPjakg727YpYHbAfDNlmAQ-WFzZzLzlwhGUa6wApjQfC8j8yqRApuoJEJ8DiTwOyR_SXdA5okAZd2yLRrI2wnayDqrYKE1QpoyigAKnalbciHDD06Du28Aba745n076OX/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzlFRwZd2imZxPjakg727YpYHbAfDNlmAQ-WFzZzLzlwhGUa6wApjQfC8j8yqRApuoJEJ8DiTwOyR_SXdA5okAZd2yLRrI2wnayDqrYKE1QpoyigAKnalbciHDD06Du28Aba745n076OX/s320/IMG_1548.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy0dqb4GAL9FUA-_eCatrwxZO_NyfyLW_IBQQRnJZ9ze5LwUdT1zPD1Ua2jjf1UI14uJiwNAfPoxBj8XmK94w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Despite what some people might say, my personal and professional belief is that sweet fruits and veggies don't need to be given after those that are less sweet. Breast milk is incredibly sweet itself, so babies are used to that. Logan happily devoured broccoli (above) and a pea and mint puree (below) after trying apples, bananas and peaches.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwVXrAl78dVyJPs3rMRUqWyFntoZ2Qdb02SuOWw6j7YbsrJeIcbUjbv8yS3Mghl1W2ZqQI9DcKdgMBU5QOLBw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span id="goog_1202742980"></span><span id="goog_1202742981"></span><br />
When I introduced solids to the girls in 2012, it was advised to wait and introduce certain high allergen foods (like nuts, eggs, fish) closer to one year. Now, in 2016, allergens should be introduced ASAP. What? Confusing, I know.<br />
<br />
My unsolicited advice (because we all love that!) and approach with my own kid...do some reading. Talk to a few trusted friends. Talk to a nutritionist or a naturopathic doc. Then, decide on an approach that works for you and your baby. I've decided to start with fruits and veggies. Plant-based proteins next. Logan tried some homemade chickpea burgers the other night and some lentils as well. He has also had some butternut squash soup that I made with homemade chicken broth. I will likely give him some meat in the next week or two.<br />
<br />
I did introduce him to eggs the other day. This was a biggie since we recently discovered that my niece is allergic to eggs. Fortunately, Logan had no reaction, but wasn't all that interested in the eggs. I'll probably make some a scramble with veggies next. Peanuts are also a biggie because my brother is allergic to them. I will most likely give him tree nuts around 9 months and then peanuts shortly thereafter.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ86Fg0SUZn4BSac6JwKI6jdwD33woCtjrx0zDewDVRPzkIo0ime89ZnvSTVIfBwyu3DmR8THyJa60ABkY1TzppHVVkhk97dUbJkwu9uR8mvRaTTqBiSNs5h-3bpyBPMvAJdBNY7JnnfpD/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ86Fg0SUZn4BSac6JwKI6jdwD33woCtjrx0zDewDVRPzkIo0ime89ZnvSTVIfBwyu3DmR8THyJa60ABkY1TzppHVVkhk97dUbJkwu9uR8mvRaTTqBiSNs5h-3bpyBPMvAJdBNY7JnnfpD/s320/IMG_1590.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He thinks the dogs are fantastic and they love him for the<br />extra snacks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpwSlE7zklJjClLNlUx8Se05D-3hBy61__02cOshJvSJV9dc1VclN79JIeDUZySi6dn5K6g2zCbWRCoAUsCZjzFIxZ7dv4sp_pcG-8Aiwkpeg6KoLvBLwIpQnylmEpGPZn5UIv77hyfGo/s1600/IMG_1593+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpwSlE7zklJjClLNlUx8Se05D-3hBy61__02cOshJvSJV9dc1VclN79JIeDUZySi6dn5K6g2zCbWRCoAUsCZjzFIxZ7dv4sp_pcG-8Aiwkpeg6KoLvBLwIpQnylmEpGPZn5UIv77hyfGo/s320/IMG_1593+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think he was eating avocado</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAQFt726wo_lIjObfqXRYmZSX5HrdpJ79bBm3S17iPn-PiE4uRNdEwGEEakRPb2ma64VaepNYdEkGZOYJzURiu_c5JMg02sLdabJyMk4UEHR-1ONuE_Ww7yN2nyZDIU2cyvA6QKChyqZN/s1600/IMG_1727+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAQFt726wo_lIjObfqXRYmZSX5HrdpJ79bBm3S17iPn-PiE4uRNdEwGEEakRPb2ma64VaepNYdEkGZOYJzURiu_c5JMg02sLdabJyMk4UEHR-1ONuE_Ww7yN2nyZDIU2cyvA6QKChyqZN/s320/IMG_1727+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow carrot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncyJlgJ2MA-nu93OHspAEPDAr8pw_juu3y1OjXiHKrOM8_WpJZAyWlZ0EnXAKc6YCvSj71_1jxiryloIMxC3o0fwxMret-uK5Y7Oi_4Qay59hy2UbO_C11tXPjvnGKq7AxNQ-HKyhHxFy/s1600/IMG_1752+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncyJlgJ2MA-nu93OHspAEPDAr8pw_juu3y1OjXiHKrOM8_WpJZAyWlZ0EnXAKc6YCvSj71_1jxiryloIMxC3o0fwxMret-uK5Y7Oi_4Qay59hy2UbO_C11tXPjvnGKq7AxNQ-HKyhHxFy/s320/IMG_1752+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mashed blueberries!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know that choking is a concern for many with this approach to food. It's a valid concern! Admittedly, I feel a little bit nervous about it too. But, I'm prepared. I'm always close by when he's eating. I give him very large pieces of raw fruits or veggies. I've taken an infant CPR course should it ever come to that. It's good to remember that gagging is completely normal when food is being introduced for the first time. Babies are learning how to move their jaws and tongues. After six months or more of only consuming liquid, something chunky is often going to cause a baby to gag. This is the only way for the gag reflex to develop. Logan has reminded me of Teagan. She used to gag/choke all the time. Outwardly, I always stayed very calm with Teagan. I would unbuckle her, but never touched her if she was coughing or making noise. She always managed to cough up or swallow whatever had gagged her. Then, she would go right back to eating. Logan has had similar gagging incidents and has always managed to work it out on his own.<br />
<br />
The nutritionist in me has absolutely loved watching him experience food for the first time! Now that we are doing it his way, he seems to love it too. Stay tuned for more food posts!<br />
<br />
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-63936445724331752292016-09-12T14:08:00.001-04:002016-09-12T14:08:34.630-04:006 Months & 7 Months Old!Sorry, Logan. August was a wildly busy month for our family, so poor Logan's 6 month post didn't make it to the blog. It was celebrated though! And, just like that our not-so-little guy is 7 months old (+a few days)!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozPpiL0nHQHq3e_28hqz_cbjz96orl3fsHDrqGsPsVztZ1xzFflJfmu8AVyCI3LtEasb2-HazHuFcH06dP9eGJehRr16TFQA_V3CGMMWHSz-mylQCAH5B6McTdrU1ZcCM94gcmNwSPUR2/s1600/IMG_1107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozPpiL0nHQHq3e_28hqz_cbjz96orl3fsHDrqGsPsVztZ1xzFflJfmu8AVyCI3LtEasb2-HazHuFcH06dP9eGJehRr16TFQA_V3CGMMWHSz-mylQCAH5B6McTdrU1ZcCM94gcmNwSPUR2/s320/IMG_1107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrigBDxstpVBoWhC_O3aPzPw1Ry5jc6znWHpQALz4fFJB97DLC5Nf7pOAhG1l7Ago6XA98gzHX5HiaifjpV_9zWH6dzMbpCEDCHycKieFgaVdPoR6U3d-Mtn70d3VHrFBlqvP5Hk6yPZ8/s1600/IMG_1658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrigBDxstpVBoWhC_O3aPzPw1Ry5jc6znWHpQALz4fFJB97DLC5Nf7pOAhG1l7Ago6XA98gzHX5HiaifjpV_9zWH6dzMbpCEDCHycKieFgaVdPoR6U3d-Mtn70d3VHrFBlqvP5Hk6yPZ8/s320/IMG_1658.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>He gets himself around! He rolls, scoots backwards and somehow manages to always get himself to whatever has grabbed his attention. Our days of lying him on the bed unattended are long gone. While he does have a designated, matted space on the family room floor, he very quickly ends up in another part of the room. I love watching him manoeuvre himself in a circle in order to reach toys. He is a determined little guy, who lets his frustrations be known when he can't quite figure things out on his own. We just had baby gates being installed this week for his impending crawling! He has recently started sitting on his own, but does topple over, so we usually put pillows around him. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's a jumper! He still loves the Jolly Jumper and the jumperoo. When he is held, he tries to jump on a lap/table/couch at any opportunity. He's a big guy now, so I definitely feel like I get a workout!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Logan loves to talk! He seems to be putting two sounds/letters together quite often now. "Mamamamama" is said frequently. Teagan has nicknamed Logan, "Gaga"-- I'm sure you can guess why! When we talk to him, he babbles right back. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's a goofball! He happily shrieks when he's amused and loves it when we smile and laugh at something he is doing. He will continue to do it for a reaction. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>After weeks of watching us eat, I started him on solid food at about 6 months old. I roasted a butternut squash and pureed it, expecting him to devour it. When it touched his lips, his disgusted reaction was both hilarious and surprising. I quickly realized that he did not want to be spoon fed. Since then, he has been all about feeding himself. I'll post more on that soon, but current faves include sweet potato, broccoli, peas with mint and peaches.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We have been going to regular appointments at Sick Kids and will continue to do so for the next several months. We had him fitted for a hearing aid in July and has been excellent about keeping it on. For the most part, he doesn't bother with it. He has already grown out of the mold though, which was resulting in the hearing aid falling out frequently. With the craziness around our move, I haven't had a chance to get his new mold made so he hasn't worn his hearing aid in a few weeks. Once we get the mold this week, he will be wearing it regularly again. We waver on whether a cochlear implant is best for him. We still do not know whether he is a candidate, so it could be a moot point. After an MRI in the next few months, we will know for certain whether he is a candidate and will take it from there. From a hearing perspective, he is doing fairly well. It's clear that he doesn't always know where sound is coming from and does seem to get overwhelmed in loud, busy settings. We are starting a music class for deaf and hearing impaired children next week. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He absolutely adores these two! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutyn0V2RCcBO1BE3KoMmGuGgLBTV_VAQ8Ykeg0nxopdkGMrX8kPhi68Pt2-juwiaXcmDCb2snPupN-8gaWVbLj2PL3Qn2QRqEE0KwTXutsUnD3N6CnYVs0IdNK9wqCaKXxXs1X5Eoq3cf/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutyn0V2RCcBO1BE3KoMmGuGgLBTV_VAQ8Ykeg0nxopdkGMrX8kPhi68Pt2-juwiaXcmDCb2snPupN-8gaWVbLj2PL3Qn2QRqEE0KwTXutsUnD3N6CnYVs0IdNK9wqCaKXxXs1X5Eoq3cf/s320/IMG_1678.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZ2NupiwM2hL985_butWlt8eEIsrRMvKVeqml6L9eMGI-rBXuJSR91YwCsiLFgAlh1QHc6Aj5IRzgbryRf6YzBf5Gu8xr1ZyqSK4gRQZ5ROkd0kqOxvbQ8-qUXExn9NOezV_3a639ORC0/s1600/IMG_1693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZ2NupiwM2hL985_butWlt8eEIsrRMvKVeqml6L9eMGI-rBXuJSR91YwCsiLFgAlh1QHc6Aj5IRzgbryRf6YzBf5Gu8xr1ZyqSK4gRQZ5ROkd0kqOxvbQ8-qUXExn9NOezV_3a639ORC0/s320/IMG_1693.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitfWIKayrQqEQ3XmWXir5Dhs38bmMg83Lmft4MQzCF6-zawrRudwvNGhNSCcw1084rBSR81DoKaKX6DCX9VDp1O-ecqGB3CJsydoXvjhbNyArlxO60sPEkNz09o3eBxQdYgNDJiOs21-D/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitfWIKayrQqEQ3XmWXir5Dhs38bmMg83Lmft4MQzCF6-zawrRudwvNGhNSCcw1084rBSR81DoKaKX6DCX9VDp1O-ecqGB3CJsydoXvjhbNyArlxO60sPEkNz09o3eBxQdYgNDJiOs21-D/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seriously, this kid smiles 90% of the time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljnsWTTXIeYlIzyH0zIAEznuIYXX_2DEuMgJ8NfNPAeDvqMRL0g-pmk-ykMiF4w0vmzVdjhdQtCxt77AxgVV9Hld4hvPVL1qppwl-Ln7kvw2peuD-l-JQTXRoO1KnncYjPtxw84C9c8fB/s1600/IMG_1129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljnsWTTXIeYlIzyH0zIAEznuIYXX_2DEuMgJ8NfNPAeDvqMRL0g-pmk-ykMiF4w0vmzVdjhdQtCxt77AxgVV9Hld4hvPVL1qppwl-Ln7kvw2peuD-l-JQTXRoO1KnncYjPtxw84C9c8fB/s320/IMG_1129.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing off an item on the girls bucket list- riding scooters on<br />Toronto Island.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJbGg9BuSHO7FOy66_nJkZaU-bW0ZxaIlsqK9a_T-Qan2_GdAYNODepfb_ji1uU9MOqJqPJDbBPri8X6RB83thTO16vmAhoiaj3fBcQQIyXAhVYDyfaj3GB-daj1-yGgN-hPjayl2mqcS/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJbGg9BuSHO7FOy66_nJkZaU-bW0ZxaIlsqK9a_T-Qan2_GdAYNODepfb_ji1uU9MOqJqPJDbBPri8X6RB83thTO16vmAhoiaj3fBcQQIyXAhVYDyfaj3GB-daj1-yGgN-hPjayl2mqcS/s320/IMG_1153.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the best shot, but he did like having his<br />feet in the water!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstF3qW0o46GWn3Jao5dtEByFa4jPO69i1G0-mDpnNSZa60_c9UDDG2IF4CovpCyIIxWPrQ1SuitF9xpTk7aFqj9D-xCOCJoe6p2YQI2B7ovrXJrQ6ZYQ5uoITEVYcVjLGroIY8fNDqMUk/s1600/IMG_1248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstF3qW0o46GWn3Jao5dtEByFa4jPO69i1G0-mDpnNSZa60_c9UDDG2IF4CovpCyIIxWPrQ1SuitF9xpTk7aFqj9D-xCOCJoe6p2YQI2B7ovrXJrQ6ZYQ5uoITEVYcVjLGroIY8fNDqMUk/s320/IMG_1248.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and Logan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFI8LVyh_9gWHjOE7PzJwMhPq8AquKBPo_QfVZU32shWLTYNmlrW9IiNCBD58LhfJYw3acIUMMJci944ub2fVvy0MYUaFh8mdYW06FI9JPgSaNxuxvBkEMqPUp-aFgiGT70UElzJaaYd_/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFI8LVyh_9gWHjOE7PzJwMhPq8AquKBPo_QfVZU32shWLTYNmlrW9IiNCBD58LhfJYw3acIUMMJci944ub2fVvy0MYUaFh8mdYW06FI9JPgSaNxuxvBkEMqPUp-aFgiGT70UElzJaaYd_/s320/IMG_1320.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The post-milk coma!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJvBwsmf96lZbeKeoqTpzA0HwdyJ3oH-E-4y2I4Y61vlQnZY3HHZ2RxfQiOUqjjnfR5INtOnIxnHzkCXjbjj-2Efoh9a1pPEPid3bDTcr72PeZsUkbTnHuWyCxE07lFa2Sah3KGsBlX6n/s1600/IMG_1382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJvBwsmf96lZbeKeoqTpzA0HwdyJ3oH-E-4y2I4Y61vlQnZY3HHZ2RxfQiOUqjjnfR5INtOnIxnHzkCXjbjj-2Efoh9a1pPEPid3bDTcr72PeZsUkbTnHuWyCxE07lFa2Sah3KGsBlX6n/s320/IMG_1382.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Uncle Rob</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhpnNtix971zvd-7b3gRmstvxPzXYc9TyX0lf8ImZaPftz4QjG5-wcfBPwnSDNEfRTUD4ni_axM4L5GdrfbhaHWblKv3IuFPpFaluUaHwj5To8S5M06VHaxcWimnU_RTnTEm2RqAd5SPZ/s1600/IMG_1417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhpnNtix971zvd-7b3gRmstvxPzXYc9TyX0lf8ImZaPftz4QjG5-wcfBPwnSDNEfRTUD4ni_axM4L5GdrfbhaHWblKv3IuFPpFaluUaHwj5To8S5M06VHaxcWimnU_RTnTEm2RqAd5SPZ/s320/IMG_1417.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tY9xJWo9Bj5l3n4PlMRwWo0FJzTQvU00jMckki_TqN4cDcezcheDLprbm9_aS5AM3ip0HrE7VhtvKKa_HG79NvXSh3MFHWZGTmsMwapWFuilNBCcS8nbR2Q5NnSsj7rwaJCtd0opllI1/s1600/IMG_1441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tY9xJWo9Bj5l3n4PlMRwWo0FJzTQvU00jMckki_TqN4cDcezcheDLprbm9_aS5AM3ip0HrE7VhtvKKa_HG79NvXSh3MFHWZGTmsMwapWFuilNBCcS8nbR2Q5NnSsj7rwaJCtd0opllI1/s320/IMG_1441.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV85a7xLL2pcJyk1K9dcKidQ6kKzgdLuCmegou4eDdi1ET6hsOuAq-npL8qkzgzdxcnBsF7AoI5U0mRFIvlezx4V4LxIIT-U-YxC_faNR-LJViQ4W-cMeHQoClPcNS5_6BxUs0RjGrzSx/s1600/IMG_1511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV85a7xLL2pcJyk1K9dcKidQ6kKzgdLuCmegou4eDdi1ET6hsOuAq-npL8qkzgzdxcnBsF7AoI5U0mRFIvlezx4V4LxIIT-U-YxC_faNR-LJViQ4W-cMeHQoClPcNS5_6BxUs0RjGrzSx/s320/IMG_1511.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No teeth, slipper peaches. No problem.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWelNAWD5C2EWV3T13vXhrDx9tdkSNThcqFeG5wJ5shKK62VjVKuFOeuUV_O8QWeGIbfV3ghWI7i-Ha4v-uFI3jMc3ONI2AfYqUZ7yADBU4WFbDe2WObNvFqbSRRTw2nlGerSsUYGLA8k/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWelNAWD5C2EWV3T13vXhrDx9tdkSNThcqFeG5wJ5shKK62VjVKuFOeuUV_O8QWeGIbfV3ghWI7i-Ha4v-uFI3jMc3ONI2AfYqUZ7yADBU4WFbDe2WObNvFqbSRRTw2nlGerSsUYGLA8k/s320/IMG_1547.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attacking broccoli!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiup-pSJsOlXZoLmAyEcnPVBHXNYL0KpTzUxMHMv23uD9lJ7uWWAEZitMwhGbnlwolByQIDwyxmi5KpGbm10eGs9jfB8rvm3Cz9620bIL1EKoFOBU-5OV4tDeCk9RoBP6wBsIeRPPzC3Os-/s1600/IMG_1571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiup-pSJsOlXZoLmAyEcnPVBHXNYL0KpTzUxMHMv23uD9lJ7uWWAEZitMwhGbnlwolByQIDwyxmi5KpGbm10eGs9jfB8rvm3Cz9620bIL1EKoFOBU-5OV4tDeCk9RoBP6wBsIeRPPzC3Os-/s320/IMG_1571.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh hey, Handsome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasqBipTM_bux0fHnsvNT-ofZ3se_XGiX8QGggJPOQIKyi_KIwLul-FAHjbvmRActCttVzIuCPTCEshMmJxw_EluUfTqY3PknR3CEX4e4qKh6hRVWyq1Y8N9qvCpM14-s_h9YWd6W2UkAz/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasqBipTM_bux0fHnsvNT-ofZ3se_XGiX8QGggJPOQIKyi_KIwLul-FAHjbvmRActCttVzIuCPTCEshMmJxw_EluUfTqY3PknR3CEX4e4qKh6hRVWyq1Y8N9qvCpM14-s_h9YWd6W2UkAz/s320/IMG_1590.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He adores the pups!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCfVsA6PJH6LURVE6DcaYQEKqoVrK9RTrWWdP9wB9q-AEcq7Y6GOkYmVL27LzQcfAHFA3ptdNljK1ma32A_KrXsFIGzBlSt1LuI3dlH0G0z0xbOEZUId9YBUvRUuF3KBNDX7ETPQK5xhYK/s1600/IMG_1604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCfVsA6PJH6LURVE6DcaYQEKqoVrK9RTrWWdP9wB9q-AEcq7Y6GOkYmVL27LzQcfAHFA3ptdNljK1ma32A_KrXsFIGzBlSt1LuI3dlH0G0z0xbOEZUId9YBUvRUuF3KBNDX7ETPQK5xhYK/s320/IMG_1604.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQFlWNEXiIxyi24ybYl0QU1d1BHIN3IxpzGhSHJtPCvL4QywZmWKYmLNa8fiUDQU0nvbNItxrtsOlBU8Y13QSd87O9cm0G67MYX4k9ICoF37cX4EzPZNR1RnQB4aen8z8cnQldO-9uEQW/s1600/IMG_1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQFlWNEXiIxyi24ybYl0QU1d1BHIN3IxpzGhSHJtPCvL4QywZmWKYmLNa8fiUDQU0nvbNItxrtsOlBU8Y13QSd87O9cm0G67MYX4k9ICoF37cX4EzPZNR1RnQB4aen8z8cnQldO-9uEQW/s320/IMG_1618.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He looks like this after every meal! (The OCD neat freak in me<br />goes a little nuts, but then I remind myself that it gets cleaned<br />up easily.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-63026666896893056532016-09-09T10:57:00.003-04:002016-09-09T10:57:50.872-04:00Moving!It's been a busy few weeks. We moved a week and a half ago, but feel like we've been going non-stop for several weeks now. As almost everyone knows, moving is a pain in the butt. Moving with kids though....oye. Jenn took the last two weeks off so we could divide and conquer. It was busy, but it went very well. We are into the new house and actually have pictures on the wall! Jenn is nuts about unpacking quickly and I love it. It has made me equally nuts, but as a result, less than 24 hours after moving in, the kitchen was set up.<br />
<br />
When we moved into our previous house, we had plans to renovate. We hired an architect and a design-build firm and spent months working through plans. Then, Jenn started a new role at work that required more hours and more travel. With Logan's arrival in February and Jenn's new position, we made the difficult decision to change our plans from reno to move. It was just going to be too much.<br />
<br />
We live in a very high demand area of Toronto. Houses don't go for sale often and when they do, they are snatched up in a heartbeat for well-above the asking price. Obviously great if you're a seller. Not so great, not to mention stressful, if you're a buyer. We were lucky to do well on the sale of our house and even luckier that a new home that matched our criteria came up for sale.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlzLins1AotjbH0DdD6fQUR7rSmkWYJXe28bHErq94ecIZ1Wm3RvqRMUlKcS2h_KkZ7w1bhmOAU6Gy4ic4auJO58XfHhZ_8EcAxE8XFMXXX8W02VOpkoAX6z0zrjk5iSWsDZUy9SUMTkt/s1600/IMG_1392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlzLins1AotjbH0DdD6fQUR7rSmkWYJXe28bHErq94ecIZ1Wm3RvqRMUlKcS2h_KkZ7w1bhmOAU6Gy4ic4auJO58XfHhZ_8EcAxE8XFMXXX8W02VOpkoAX6z0zrjk5iSWsDZUy9SUMTkt/s320/IMG_1392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtP0DoZkqgECNqyqMkspuoWmRdoCczo-A5NaXzIgXGQnS-oYEg-p3uvIQJGNOLRB67hbqQKALgMzO273Kb5oM-cD0h5HlpPJIckl5O0bvcsf04Mt7Wa-yY6uGzwOr6Y7XP_5aUAyYXFV5/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtP0DoZkqgECNqyqMkspuoWmRdoCczo-A5NaXzIgXGQnS-oYEg-p3uvIQJGNOLRB67hbqQKALgMzO273Kb5oM-cD0h5HlpPJIckl5O0bvcsf04Mt7Wa-yY6uGzwOr6Y7XP_5aUAyYXFV5/s320/IMG_1393.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8yB4upi7-szVcgd4MJ3sJmXXHDiTGCxIivTFD4a2FI667FL7dld-JbOMpBwgQie77EYYK16g-ZplcUACEl2MkTBJAti8vNZB4bkfvHLIYKwqPPqAwdtG5-g9fzc6Fb6AlO5bfm3vAjUW/s1600/IMG_1396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8yB4upi7-szVcgd4MJ3sJmXXHDiTGCxIivTFD4a2FI667FL7dld-JbOMpBwgQie77EYYK16g-ZplcUACEl2MkTBJAti8vNZB4bkfvHLIYKwqPPqAwdtG5-g9fzc6Fb6AlO5bfm3vAjUW/s320/IMG_1396.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztR7XCz06HGzZNS3bRT2Qa-z73KqybMZuG7VZIoJ8oIkSwKQpAFV-NIW1VTZsPSNXyz74nIW8iTqR1ksER2ZUbNkw3wVonmkPUBJghTT8UgZjoUbi6FMX192O8k52va9ICS_-jQYPGdGP/s1600/IMG_1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztR7XCz06HGzZNS3bRT2Qa-z73KqybMZuG7VZIoJ8oIkSwKQpAFV-NIW1VTZsPSNXyz74nIW8iTqR1ksER2ZUbNkw3wVonmkPUBJghTT8UgZjoUbi6FMX192O8k52va9ICS_-jQYPGdGP/s320/IMG_1398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaASoQF0kKnFaEAAkY8oYI6Sx7MGnhJPp4GG5sLKe8SBfaEtjlpreMkRD-1qy9VYBjBHPmg0qFx8L5916XqYrz0dPAH95IaJHAx9zRSiLkKWRsjF2ErggVDwoTy2pdGw-HLPH6Lda5ZW6a/s1600/IMG_1399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaASoQF0kKnFaEAAkY8oYI6Sx7MGnhJPp4GG5sLKe8SBfaEtjlpreMkRD-1qy9VYBjBHPmg0qFx8L5916XqYrz0dPAH95IaJHAx9zRSiLkKWRsjF2ErggVDwoTy2pdGw-HLPH6Lda5ZW6a/s320/IMG_1399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the reasons that we decided to move was the need for an additional bedroom. We felt that it was time for the girls to each have their own space. They've been sharing a room since day one and spend pretty much every waking minute together. Teagan was excited about the idea of her own room. Quinn wasn't so sure. We let them pick out their wall colours (within reason!). Teagan had initially chosen the brightest colour of fuschia. Quinn wavered between a fluorescent turquoise and a sunny yellow. We gently persuaded them to go with light pink (Teagan) and a more subtle tuquoise (Quinn). Teagan's room is covered in dogs. Dog artwork. A comforter covered in dogs. She loves it! A Lightning McQueen lamp completes her room. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the most part, they've adjusted well to their own spaces. We have caught Quinn sneaking into Teagan's room a couple of times pre-6am because she "has to tell her something." Quinn also isn't keen on giving Teagan privacy when she would like to close her door. It's a work in progress! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBV2dh2gvcmHfMzTHW20gW9LHd9X7N_0CLIdIYDRKKIQtL8gaDd5xmgF5GJC3HmjemWXnbBlYRKpT46oQbpF23nKvkK_eHR09qgKimqp4BYUBpYt2K5PKULBVR9G7icJ4YGtr_szu0YhR/s1600/IMG_1394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBV2dh2gvcmHfMzTHW20gW9LHd9X7N_0CLIdIYDRKKIQtL8gaDd5xmgF5GJC3HmjemWXnbBlYRKpT46oQbpF23nKvkK_eHR09qgKimqp4BYUBpYt2K5PKULBVR9G7icJ4YGtr_szu0YhR/s320/IMG_1394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVsLF3oBMZWeoZ29Bfd5UQocXD7Wo2qfxsw2eUgzYG6WtK9mMFcgu3cjj6isoo1_3vlJfkAoYRLtUHMXzbYTFxwqNtpiwAJ3YJrsL5SNBMAgPA-MxVogi41V7e3oRvuOBh1Z8_WmJGivG/s1600/IMG_1395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVsLF3oBMZWeoZ29Bfd5UQocXD7Wo2qfxsw2eUgzYG6WtK9mMFcgu3cjj6isoo1_3vlJfkAoYRLtUHMXzbYTFxwqNtpiwAJ3YJrsL5SNBMAgPA-MxVogi41V7e3oRvuOBh1Z8_WmJGivG/s320/IMG_1395.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnFLpPl7lvTiIAe0pq_EQ2LK-v-XyFLp1TdtT2TvIwFNWLVd3o-YM-ZyLhLWrEJKiLCWZcesmpgbhUik1xOhR7SspS_z_IFVi3MvNmkScrOuZcm7EJtbIcuRWnhk8J1sADUCcJ5DONpKX/s1600/IMG_1397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnFLpPl7lvTiIAe0pq_EQ2LK-v-XyFLp1TdtT2TvIwFNWLVd3o-YM-ZyLhLWrEJKiLCWZcesmpgbhUik1xOhR7SspS_z_IFVi3MvNmkScrOuZcm7EJtbIcuRWnhk8J1sADUCcJ5DONpKX/s320/IMG_1397.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Jenn took a few weeks off around the closing date of our new place. Moving is always an ordeal, but it was especially nuts with three small children in tow. But, we did it! We are settling in and it feels more and more like home every day.Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-39532330701505823642016-07-31T11:16:00.003-04:002016-07-31T11:16:47.006-04:00Auntie WendyToday would have been Auntie Wendy's birthday. She died on May 22nd. I've wanted to write a post for a while now. I've started and stopped several times. Maybe I wasn't in the right mindset. Maybe I just didn't quite have the words.<br />
<br />
Auntie Wendy was like a second mother to me. She was my mom's oldest sister. She was my godmother. When I was born, she told my mom, "she's my baby too." When my parents would travel, she would take care of my brothers and me. I'll never forget taking a road trip with my mom and Auntie Wendy one summer. She taught us a "game" -- find a bad word for every letter of the alphabet. As kids, we thought that this was awesome and hilarious! She was that kind of aunt. We got to do all those things with her that parents never allow. Before moving to Boston, she drove with me down to Niagara Falls (USA) to get my social security card. While I was pregnant with the twins, she and I drove all the way down to Rochester to pick up a few items at our friends' house. I loved and cherished our chats on those long drives. She always offered me such a unique perspective on things. She lived about 45 minutes outside of Toronto. I frequently met her half way at Whole Foods for coffee or lunch. I'll never forget arranging lunch so that I could show her the ultrasound photo of my two perfect little twin gummy bears. I was as excited to show her to photo as she was to hear the news.<br />
<br />
Every time I've pressed publish on my blog since May 22nd, a sadness has washed over me. My aunt read every single one of my blog posts. She would often send me emails after reading them. She wrote the best emails (and cards). She selected her words perfectly and always made me feel special.<br />
<br />
A couple weeks before she died, my mom and I took the kids to see her. She got to meet Logan for the first and only time. Despite her weakened state, she smiled lots. Cancer sucks, as do its treatments. She had to have a chair installed so that she could get up the stairs. I want to remember that day from these two photos:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-Owizi7a47Ua0zg-VTlphx6d-O_gduef3ZTLEO9KOjSGkoMw28o_kltkPgaBUpQhrrWBRZj2r7sUMhhLQFVhb8QfGPTh0NHQ2Plg4wj1qvKXNrgD0XD41XwJI7eyuNQ-SWyH0urxY9t3/s1600/image+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-Owizi7a47Ua0zg-VTlphx6d-O_gduef3ZTLEO9KOjSGkoMw28o_kltkPgaBUpQhrrWBRZj2r7sUMhhLQFVhb8QfGPTh0NHQ2Plg4wj1qvKXNrgD0XD41XwJI7eyuNQ-SWyH0urxY9t3/s320/image+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMT6GiMkzRUcs13kRnTvPQENPUFVdEumn5PkppECdHR0eYmJdjQC-X6twKYhNGosgYjaJAopRJm83HIheF4le1hdmUfhGzuvyd4mxpsG08McX_NLIUN0kRxJ6d66N7GUDtCIjHFJmBPP6/s1600/image+%25282%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMT6GiMkzRUcs13kRnTvPQENPUFVdEumn5PkppECdHR0eYmJdjQC-X6twKYhNGosgYjaJAopRJm83HIheF4le1hdmUfhGzuvyd4mxpsG08McX_NLIUN0kRxJ6d66N7GUDtCIjHFJmBPP6/s320/image+%25282%2529.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Auntie Wendy might have been exhausted, but she rode up and down those stairs over and over again, bringing huge smiles onto the faces of my little girls. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rest in peace, Auntie Wendy. I miss you terribly. RILY. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0dM2Pt4QUovG71Xyn2O3TJaCYVJ_oHCG_wrOrKfWf44aUi5A6UhX-s8zDj6ENlFGtsjQXHY-banfLgMVk3z4VMKG3jAHt0gPLZfkZsFrobOFWE4Ew_OWOEb7ailGs9v6dtxPfQ2t5tXm/s1600/IMG_5368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0dM2Pt4QUovG71Xyn2O3TJaCYVJ_oHCG_wrOrKfWf44aUi5A6UhX-s8zDj6ENlFGtsjQXHY-banfLgMVk3z4VMKG3jAHt0gPLZfkZsFrobOFWE4Ew_OWOEb7ailGs9v6dtxPfQ2t5tXm/s320/IMG_5368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-3221598171179918252016-07-21T08:36:00.000-04:002016-07-21T08:36:00.681-04:00Stormy Seas<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Parenting feels really hard right now. If you're a parent, you might get what I mean. While I would never say that parenting young kids is easy, there are times when we're in a groove and things are just flowing nicely along. Picture the ocean on a calm morning. Gentle waves that don't crash onto the shore. That's not us. The ocean is stormy right now. The waves are big and every single one crashes hard. Does that make any sense? In my sleep-deprived brain, it does. </span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
The girls are fighting like crazy these days. They wake up after sleeping for 12 hours and start fighting within a matter of minutes. They fight over everything and know how to push each others buttons. They're in a day camp right now. I thought that putting them in separate groups for the day would help matters. Their own counsellors, their own friends, their own space. They seem to like it and haven't complained. Strangely, it has made things worse at home. Between the fighting, crying, lack of listening and whining, I'm ready to run for the hills. I shouldn't complain since they're at camp during the day, but those few hours in the morning and after camp are rougher than ever. Add in Logan's poor sleep habits and his new hearing aid (which is taking some mental and emotional adjustment for me). This too shall pass. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
I hit a low last night when the baby was screaming (overtired), Quinn was whining at me and the dogs started fighting (in the way that sibling dogs do), which resulted in Riley getting injured. I've never heard him yelp and cry like that. Logan was in a safe space so Riley won. He needed my attention the most. With three individuals loudly demanding my attention, plus one more concerned child and two concerned dogs hovering over my head, I was completely overwhelmed.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
I'm generally good at dealing with the chaos that is our house. I can usually multitask well and respond to everyone's needs in a timely manner. I'm not sure why or how I feel out of my groove. So, it leads me to wonder if the ocean really is that stormy or is it me? Either way, I know it's a phase. It will shift. </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
End vent. </div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-26318759411949063542016-07-17T20:42:00.002-04:002016-07-17T20:42:31.309-04:005 Months Old!Our not-so-little guy is 5 months old (as of July 10th)! It's hard to imagine how life was without him. He has seamlessly joined our family and provides so much joy to everyone he meets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIYAztKST0YFQ47rmAPl_7WeaOdcEA4J_JyZwPEFSPUsMyCyk-ZqjN1jJ1E8Mt-XYomzhSNQC1KPAMmAf28LVS5O4WwDi6doy7aevaEAq87pl5rvPJ9FxTC5_aeFRh7iMGn8vAB8frdgr/s1600/13652963_10102593377951727_4990302469514911533_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIYAztKST0YFQ47rmAPl_7WeaOdcEA4J_JyZwPEFSPUsMyCyk-ZqjN1jJ1E8Mt-XYomzhSNQC1KPAMmAf28LVS5O4WwDi6doy7aevaEAq87pl5rvPJ9FxTC5_aeFRh7iMGn8vAB8frdgr/s320/13652963_10102593377951727_4990302469514911533_o.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Logan is extremely active! He rolls from front-back and back-front, but is still perfecting his technique. Given how big he is, I had expected it to take him longer to roll. His legs and arms are constantly moving. He loves the Jolly Jumper and the jumperoo, especially if someone is willing to watch and cheer him on. If I'm holding him, his legs are usually kicking, especially if his sisters are in sight. And, if he's on my lap, he's jumping. My arms have gotten quite the work out in the last five months. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He has majorly regressed in the sleep department. Admittedly, it is a little depressing since he was sleeping for 7-8 straight hours at just 4 weeks old. He goes to bed easily around 7pm, but usually wakes within an hour. I settle him, but then he often wakes again a short while later. He began waking several times per night a few weeks ago (maybe "the" 4 month sleep regression?). Exhausted, I started bringing him into bed with me. He ended up attached to the boob, using me as his soother all night long. While he is still in bed with me for the majority of the night, I'm trying to not let him use me as his soother. His sleep has actually improved in the last several nights. Last night, he didn't come into bed with me until about midnight -- an improvement from us both getting tucked in at 8pm. Some form of sleep training is likely going to be necessary, but we need to figure out the best timing for that. Nap-wise, he's doing fairly well. He goes down for his first nap around 8 and sleeps for about an hour. He is ready for nap #2 around 10:30. While he needs a third and fourth nap, I can usually only get one more one hour nap out of him. As a result, he's a bit of a wreck by 6pm, so if I'm able, I get him down early.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He is so in love with his sisters. I comment on this every month (I think!), but the bond and love is only growing. This was one of the many reasons why I wanted a third child! When the girls get home from camp, the hugest smile comes across his face. One minute, he will be lying on his mat crying and the next, his eyes are locked on one of his sisters who moves whatever she is doing to be next to him.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The girls love talking about all of the "words" that he can say. He is mostly saying "mmm", "goo", "ahhh", "eh" (like a good Canadian!). He loves to chat, especially to the girls. He is also a big shrieker. He sits on the table in his bumbo during meals and happily shrieks at his sisters. We have also started a music class, which he clearly loves because he shrieks through that too!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's nearly ready for food. He has recently started watching me eat. He will follow food from fork to mouth. I plan to start him on solids at some point around 6 months. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>While he's generally very happy, he knows what he wants and is quite stubborn. He can be extremely difficult to soothe for anyone besides me. This can be stressful for all of us. If he doesn't get what he wants, he lets out very angry cries/screams. It's been far easier to cater to him than it was with the girls since I "just" have him. He requires far more attention than the girls ever did. He frequently lets it be known that he wants me attention and when he gets it, he gives me the biggest smile. We call him the prince and he totally is. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He LOVES bath time! He happily kicks and flails his arms sending water everywhere. He has nearly outgrown his little baby tub, so I just picked him up <a href="http://www.kushiesonline.ca/Aqua-Splash-Bath-Mat-Bubbly-Whale-p/ez6001.htm">this mat</a> on sale. It's the safer version of those bath rings. </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszpRVZkBTaKCzY_6F93g-_C93zHEFhkTlgKVfCp5h7vHZw7jYOg5oECk8bwR6D9qQUJNTbhKrFzqrk3Y3whc16CcHU93FU4ZYn2wq00ab8G4w4Hso3SHmqP1uPMR0wBf1T5sF4ir7334u/s1600/13528243_10102571961216037_5676964155373353297_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszpRVZkBTaKCzY_6F93g-_C93zHEFhkTlgKVfCp5h7vHZw7jYOg5oECk8bwR6D9qQUJNTbhKrFzqrk3Y3whc16CcHU93FU4ZYn2wq00ab8G4w4Hso3SHmqP1uPMR0wBf1T5sF4ir7334u/s320/13528243_10102571961216037_5676964155373353297_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy, even in his sleep.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nskKkShscqTyHYFk5n_HZ-OmCosmvCzHmPPB312STvYUyInmK0GkeNWgeyDN8pL64ojxQ1Nyo32fm96UKwC5gAuotta9glJhjSRsAa5t-ko1DihHPG6TE_n4I3RX4GymU2aryFVGmNxT/s1600/13575737_10102577218495407_6108079172420872262_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nskKkShscqTyHYFk5n_HZ-OmCosmvCzHmPPB312STvYUyInmK0GkeNWgeyDN8pL64ojxQ1Nyo32fm96UKwC5gAuotta9glJhjSRsAa5t-ko1DihHPG6TE_n4I3RX4GymU2aryFVGmNxT/s320/13575737_10102577218495407_6108079172420872262_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn turns him into a "beautiful princess"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVON6agV-QxBLItCLvELQElAfbnfhCdB6JOnxxEPmmUrX-cbGQIP9KzP_q-X5xdXIrsejcSW9qJyj2glrhuo4llYLuZKMxsYgI6ifVqnochXun0sG5hJlqzCyF0Jrcr3AglHUE1p1PJajs/s1600/13584764_10102589997665847_4044225493748051649_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVON6agV-QxBLItCLvELQElAfbnfhCdB6JOnxxEPmmUrX-cbGQIP9KzP_q-X5xdXIrsejcSW9qJyj2glrhuo4llYLuZKMxsYgI6ifVqnochXun0sG5hJlqzCyF0Jrcr3AglHUE1p1PJajs/s320/13584764_10102589997665847_4044225493748051649_o.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home is Canada <3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURBn04OkCCB6kYo0NyvHTVkuCIgxbQ4GCuXtGXo7ejkmJ_NuJQUbKU0RrKEACesIFl-ffOdqNkgVJrZ99AGqHnvKJ5Fh_lD5-CUTA158ZXsuB98BLyiGtsDt96oCEfXoOXM2By0OG97u2/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURBn04OkCCB6kYo0NyvHTVkuCIgxbQ4GCuXtGXo7ejkmJ_NuJQUbKU0RrKEACesIFl-ffOdqNkgVJrZ99AGqHnvKJ5Fh_lD5-CUTA158ZXsuB98BLyiGtsDt96oCEfXoOXM2By0OG97u2/s320/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very happy in the carrier!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpsbdl_I5t6JicIXhCupzXhZs2DMAx5LYocMeIWcDPE2ADny_KudnxPxpUKwhRnbmtaLLLoeflVvCe_M4pUhbegCulkXltSKjOi6XBhCGKUNkimOsoN7gamrY0Bc6afiUWVz-n5IYt1tY/s1600/IMG_0366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpsbdl_I5t6JicIXhCupzXhZs2DMAx5LYocMeIWcDPE2ADny_KudnxPxpUKwhRnbmtaLLLoeflVvCe_M4pUhbegCulkXltSKjOi6XBhCGKUNkimOsoN7gamrY0Bc6afiUWVz-n5IYt1tY/s320/IMG_0366.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chatting with Grandpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJPWJcRjFMvUpn7yBtGQ-rrHn2lzr156Z40RpY6XNQTwxzJ1_hdhqYEX_-sojxWFVZAiR79DFXm3rfIjMk2L7Xo6l-E_mBPo_1BwCSJGHNBQBTsOhxQmMGHRnLTVckNK7LmjnhyphenhyphenZbiG2h/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJPWJcRjFMvUpn7yBtGQ-rrHn2lzr156Z40RpY6XNQTwxzJ1_hdhqYEX_-sojxWFVZAiR79DFXm3rfIjMk2L7Xo6l-E_mBPo_1BwCSJGHNBQBTsOhxQmMGHRnLTVckNK7LmjnhyphenhyphenZbiG2h/s320/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 little monkeys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtVBUAEid1mUP3au7qgTQE2kCyUGyg81_5Ts89MPWSZB3qBf8IpNlNjCtVCaOIzQjR1oKgbUt52832OZB3WfAkxp7klPT1nG1Y89NnbpOey8bBHmhvqZaPHtKrJaF54-tnlHFuLJR-6-g/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtVBUAEid1mUP3au7qgTQE2kCyUGyg81_5Ts89MPWSZB3qBf8IpNlNjCtVCaOIzQjR1oKgbUt52832OZB3WfAkxp7klPT1nG1Y89NnbpOey8bBHmhvqZaPHtKrJaF54-tnlHFuLJR-6-g/s320/IMG_0296.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink "marshmallow suit", pink bed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPiIbVUGk0qp11exfGbd3d_2wJnXSR58KhYe5h_o3vqtFgbtT_ZZuZ5AnMgNpE-G6Xjr-IJfJk1Xpgn67KqaQI7EmKFoNat881sj5YwRjl3OcmqaXB7SbfXODa7v9p-WYfTxzOtkMlO9W/s1600/IMG_0503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPiIbVUGk0qp11exfGbd3d_2wJnXSR58KhYe5h_o3vqtFgbtT_ZZuZ5AnMgNpE-G6Xjr-IJfJk1Xpgn67KqaQI7EmKFoNat881sj5YwRjl3OcmqaXB7SbfXODa7v9p-WYfTxzOtkMlO9W/s320/IMG_0503.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loving his Mama</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGz48f2fQaTT24uI_C_MFpgu3ydwpWSbhoBJM0ZLZuH4vFqw3IJaRnJWI5yuNihDn3asDa-zjnkVKOzjlqJdVcSLJxe2OgcFCW8RWvlG4qKwGyeFK_FPTEXQz-D3EMFROwWg4SRuJfotR/s1600/IMG_0589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGz48f2fQaTT24uI_C_MFpgu3ydwpWSbhoBJM0ZLZuH4vFqw3IJaRnJWI5yuNihDn3asDa-zjnkVKOzjlqJdVcSLJxe2OgcFCW8RWvlG4qKwGyeFK_FPTEXQz-D3EMFROwWg4SRuJfotR/s320/IMG_0589.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muscles is out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx208u5R9mvbcVb9vEjA6f9WSPnthYiSz71hviNr88N6j4D5v_v_qTi1ADCv5K4dt7NI0E-0DuUSK3lmiorVu1IwjmHwjUH8iYLxQeGDCIRSnbous5h_JV3nMn_gs3NCJwiaBjZq5Npwlg/s1600/IMG_0623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx208u5R9mvbcVb9vEjA6f9WSPnthYiSz71hviNr88N6j4D5v_v_qTi1ADCv5K4dt7NI0E-0DuUSK3lmiorVu1IwjmHwjUH8iYLxQeGDCIRSnbous5h_JV3nMn_gs3NCJwiaBjZq5Npwlg/s320/IMG_0623.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His happy place! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TcajR4Tf2CKQviCk2bSgvFrdfTr5WdmOiDeX1Vj2lW8qTlL0eVhUcwfTzzrCw7sj0-kxDWyG_FiPaCWhSVlkDRKTAPpzETKpVk_ck7h2Vz1kZNYUjN64X8Kh5jcTIBaOIQa-TmwXdaRt/s1600/IMG_0647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TcajR4Tf2CKQviCk2bSgvFrdfTr5WdmOiDeX1Vj2lW8qTlL0eVhUcwfTzzrCw7sj0-kxDWyG_FiPaCWhSVlkDRKTAPpzETKpVk_ck7h2Vz1kZNYUjN64X8Kh5jcTIBaOIQa-TmwXdaRt/s320/IMG_0647.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I feel so lucky to spend my day with this :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMD5jxxR9XiKtYZW0-KAxMufypStjf0PmY0-PJLeJqbr4cRTrVTRiewthE_KqHqlvXsEXCt2LejoKO8YLlweQPclUoSL3Kh7g5iYKxTyh-N50ZUzA8E-9PLR1e8Iw2vWAk3of4ld4_-bCu/s1600/IMG_0683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMD5jxxR9XiKtYZW0-KAxMufypStjf0PmY0-PJLeJqbr4cRTrVTRiewthE_KqHqlvXsEXCt2LejoKO8YLlweQPclUoSL3Kh7g5iYKxTyh-N50ZUzA8E-9PLR1e8Iw2vWAk3of4ld4_-bCu/s320/IMG_0683.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out that thigh.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEzHmGeHwFWg9xV5O6dljob6aQYSC7k7IHNApK7boUu3BIrJy47scbp-2vDBMzGwqjqJBe-lnDhz6csh9AIHKRNjU8FqnblVKtJC4S3jxEf4agO3gxeECFSxpWYSX9dW0OYWD3OeE8Wml/s1600/IMG_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEzHmGeHwFWg9xV5O6dljob6aQYSC7k7IHNApK7boUu3BIrJy47scbp-2vDBMzGwqjqJBe-lnDhz6csh9AIHKRNjU8FqnblVKtJC4S3jxEf4agO3gxeECFSxpWYSX9dW0OYWD3OeE8Wml/s320/IMG_0699.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outtakes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPph68Sk7LTSm2U9LFDnzwncj8EOYdb8nXR1jQSn0HBI7TrWIIS-W56NdNiliZ3R49zIqBHPOKw7FnndmFcf7ancbkNBu6Gtwg_WI7IMQ1GtN7JSrj0g8dAcmkk487iIwT0swjs8xK3dj/s1600/IMG_0716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPph68Sk7LTSm2U9LFDnzwncj8EOYdb8nXR1jQSn0HBI7TrWIIS-W56NdNiliZ3R49zIqBHPOKw7FnndmFcf7ancbkNBu6Gtwg_WI7IMQ1GtN7JSrj0g8dAcmkk487iIwT0swjs8xK3dj/s320/IMG_0716.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe if I suck hard enough, I'll get milk from T's head?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzbqK1CSxulu7VzfsCozfxR4Gfe_vjejSiEpVCTLRIQ4FA_Qm0y53ZejE_8KqXDZht8fG-eWncg9kbixQVn7Uz9_5QwI0MHEFVL3P8Lao8gD4oqdxChMkiF6aASMM0E70Igx-Bw3Oh7QI/s1600/IMG_0740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzbqK1CSxulu7VzfsCozfxR4Gfe_vjejSiEpVCTLRIQ4FA_Qm0y53ZejE_8KqXDZht8fG-eWncg9kbixQVn7Uz9_5QwI0MHEFVL3P8Lao8gD4oqdxChMkiF6aASMM0E70Igx-Bw3Oh7QI/s320/IMG_0740.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jumping on Grandpa's birthday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4m989VbqOFJsp2NbS1wB9eZU7W1ZhxUi6O2cY9rvNnVyUQ2_1At9XcXHQDPc7Icvc4_DGPgss_4-VdepBYjLB6qwFJ1QsSsc2aAigWxPDUu3EMMLPkz3Aj93iRFMeiEwGG6pU1vyp9_65/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4m989VbqOFJsp2NbS1wB9eZU7W1ZhxUi6O2cY9rvNnVyUQ2_1At9XcXHQDPc7Icvc4_DGPgss_4-VdepBYjLB6qwFJ1QsSsc2aAigWxPDUu3EMMLPkz3Aj93iRFMeiEwGG6pU1vyp9_65/s320/IMG_0745.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Discovering Riley's paw</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_30jE0KgrY4Sfq2QZdG55TfFoBO0wWVV6Rl07TjTjmEsAdaqBRPEOyJon6Ze2vuiuqsqs4TyUQ87u_1Rnjsq3qnqNkjJibfhN7_S6xfKpgvuo0605kfIB96rWwM3K2sqXZdnx7hLa2fKu/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_30jE0KgrY4Sfq2QZdG55TfFoBO0wWVV6Rl07TjTjmEsAdaqBRPEOyJon6Ze2vuiuqsqs4TyUQ87u_1Rnjsq3qnqNkjJibfhN7_S6xfKpgvuo0605kfIB96rWwM3K2sqXZdnx7hLa2fKu/s320/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bedtime can be a gong show when I'm solo. On a<br />particularly bad night, this is how the four of us ended up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-38403820599378943442016-06-28T13:20:00.001-04:002016-06-28T13:20:41.436-04:00A Hearing UpdateAfter two standard newborn hearing screens and two rounds of much more involved testing, Logan has been diagnosed with profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in his left ear.<br />
<br />
From my understanding, this means that the nerves that transmit sound from his ear to his brain didn't fully develop. During the testing process, they would send sounds into his ear to watch for the brain's response. The frequency had to be increased significantly (up to the level of a jet engine) in order to see a <i>possible</i> slight response from his left ear. So, his hearing loss has been deemed profound meaning there is little to no hearing in that ear. As a result of such extreme hearing loss, there are going to be several options available to Logan. More testing will need to be done in order to figure out what is going to work best.<br />
<br />
When some people find out about Logan's hearing loss, they ask about the other ear. Once I say that the right ear currently hears normally, the response is often, "Oh well, at least he has one good ear." Yes, we are definitely lucky that he has "one good ear", but he is going to be faced with many challenges that most people would never consider. Our bodies were designed to have two ears that work together. During my research, I came across this, which I found interesting:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">To your brain, one ear + one ear = three! A sound that is barely audible at 20 feet away with only </span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">one ear is easily audible at 30 feet when two ears are listening. This is called the binaural </span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">summation </span></i></span><i style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">effect and is the result of the two hearing nerves crossing many hundreds </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">of times </span></i><i style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">before the information reaches the cortex.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
Logan doesn't simply hear half as well as the rest of us. From the time he was born, I noticed that he seemed to get overwhelmed and upset in noisy or chaotic environments. For those of us with two hearing ears, we can take in all the sounds that we hear and easily filter out what isn't important to us at the time. For Logan, all of the sounds and speech in a loud environment overload his right ear, making it difficult for him to filter out what he doesn't need to hear. There are times when I feel overwhelmed in a chaotic environment, so I can't imagine how he must feel. It can also be difficult for him to determine where sounds and speech are coming from, which is why he might not look at someone immediately if they speak to him. Listening with just one ear can be tiring and can require much more effort. These are the challenges that he is being faced with at just 4 months old. As he gets older and eventually goes to school, the challenges will only increase. It's hard to not think about the future and how he will do in school, sports, activities, social settings and from a safety perspective. <br />
<br />
We are extremely fortunate to live in Toronto, the home of a world renowned children's hospital, <a href="http://www.sickkids.ca/">Sick Kids</a>. They are currently doing a study on cochlear implants for unilateral hearing loss in babies. This work is only being done in a couple places around the world and the doctor we were lucky enough to see last week, is at the forefront of cochlear implant research. We had met with an audiologist before our appointment with the doctor. By the time he came in, I was feeling a little overwhelmed and didn't think to ask several of the questions running through my head. We are heading back there in the next few weeks because we have decided to start out by getting Logan fitted for a hearing aid. While this likely won't help him much, because his hearing loss is so severe, it will be a chance for him to get used to wearing something on his ear/head. More testing will be required to see if Logan is a candidate for an implant. From the sounds of it, early intervention is key. Implanting as a baby will have a dramatic effect on the way his brain will develop.<br />
<br />
For now, I'm in information gathering mode, trying hard not to get too overwhelmed. I definitely do feel sad when I think of the challenges that are ahead. It could be worse though. So much worse. I can certainly put things in perspective, especially when we walk into Sick Kids.<br />
<br />
Slight segue....I've been doing a spin class (babies allowed!) to kick my butt back into shape. I've been told repeatedly that I need to protect his good ear, so he wears his ear muffs and looks ridiculously adorable in them! I love them, Logan does not. He figured out quite quickly how to knock them off. The lucky little dude usually gets to leave the room and hang out with one of the people who works at the studio! Spoiled guy ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOcfI_f8BBaeg2aaTaGJxg6uczLiCQvNbbO9a-Y5AWVIf6QThx4eNf3nMjRMKHhFFbN7eA7azJWauiaauRUPh3EYHMHlzzJHV43zwaFJTV3APNCXNi3C7p8y7sR2zxtr8HpOX99bZG7JG/s1600/IMG_0456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOcfI_f8BBaeg2aaTaGJxg6uczLiCQvNbbO9a-Y5AWVIf6QThx4eNf3nMjRMKHhFFbN7eA7azJWauiaauRUPh3EYHMHlzzJHV43zwaFJTV3APNCXNi3C7p8y7sR2zxtr8HpOX99bZG7JG/s320/IMG_0456.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24Vs0jS9yqP9hE4Oy05PzJg8VcGAsIhvxuHIn1VEexLTZRCZEbr2a6SqC-LrDIKlCvRfo3aw1ZQkYkmvuafTwZm08HhyphenhyphenM-2x8-RnVbBn1PpQ49BU4Yui5Iu4GwuYLQ21Vvraim5nITzd-/s1600/IMG_0457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24Vs0jS9yqP9hE4Oy05PzJg8VcGAsIhvxuHIn1VEexLTZRCZEbr2a6SqC-LrDIKlCvRfo3aw1ZQkYkmvuafTwZm08HhyphenhyphenM-2x8-RnVbBn1PpQ49BU4Yui5Iu4GwuYLQ21Vvraim5nITzd-/s320/IMG_0457.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-36144885891983766672016-06-18T14:06:00.002-04:002016-06-18T14:06:43.002-04:004 Months Old!Mr. Happy turned 4 months old on June 10th! He truly is such a happy guy, a drastic change from his first 8 weeks!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCvauRqjBbUzujZRPydskhmHUMO1ie6Tyg4jODQMWbcVJPQ2UR0edf4pVhDbcsau_X47oXlL0I0vlRyCaXOG70M-OxmNTcfa12j3oyO9PGfjqcxn3XXGhlVQg5x4jKAJ-rzhWVuZ8dm6W/s1600/IMG_0251+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCvauRqjBbUzujZRPydskhmHUMO1ie6Tyg4jODQMWbcVJPQ2UR0edf4pVhDbcsau_X47oXlL0I0vlRyCaXOG70M-OxmNTcfa12j3oyO9PGfjqcxn3XXGhlVQg5x4jKAJ-rzhWVuZ8dm6W/s320/IMG_0251+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I feel like his happiness deserves a bullet point of its own. I'm relieved that he is out of his newborn grump stage. Like most babies, he usually only cries when he's tired, hungry or uncomfortable. He is not a fan of the car, so it has become inevitable that he will cry, even on the shortest of trips. He has the most infectious smile. He smiles with his eyes. His adoration of his sisters continues to grow and the feeling appears to be mutual. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Unfortunately, he did regress in the sleep department. He went from consistently feeding only once in a 12 hour period to being up multiple times. Exhausting. For the most part, I've just been going with the flow, as much as it sucks. For several nights, I caved and just brought him into bed with me. We have a king-sized bed, so luckily there is plenty of room. I'm not trying to get him sleeping on his own again. The transition hasn't been too bad, but he is still up more than I'd like (2-3x per night). Things are really improving on the nap front. He is getting down in his crib at least once per day for a 1 hour nap. His other naps are either in the carrier or car seat. His most consistent nap is first thing in the morning, so once school finishes and I don't have to drop off the girls, I'll get him taking that nap in the crib. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I've given up on pumping and bottles. He consistently refused the bottle which resulted in me dumping liquid gold down the drain. While it is somewhat limiting, it is only temporary. We did go out for dinner -- the little punk waited for me for five hours and then happily guzzled a boob full of milk. It's tough because it makes it harder on the person who is watching him. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He has found his jumping legs! He absolutely loves the Jolly Jumper. I will never forget the look on his face when I put him in it for the first time. Priceless. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He's chomping on his hands like crazy. He's drooling as well, so clearly teeth are coming in. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He loves to chat. He babbles often and loves it when someone talks to him. He seems to imitate the girls when they make specific noises. Quinn will often tell him to "say 'oh'". </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduMbV74gclSrBbVH2kiBpq4GIU83wdmhs8wy1OnR_h-CtBCCTDcW5tpheEidj0N98gd6NunqDC4wS6t6SEjZygUsC_FlY0L5XtU5KJt7BQZJ9l4A8HaFh7J5gxIElMZ6uQUJfegm1ZX3d/s1600/IMG_0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduMbV74gclSrBbVH2kiBpq4GIU83wdmhs8wy1OnR_h-CtBCCTDcW5tpheEidj0N98gd6NunqDC4wS6t6SEjZygUsC_FlY0L5XtU5KJt7BQZJ9l4A8HaFh7J5gxIElMZ6uQUJfegm1ZX3d/s320/IMG_0129.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby's first jump!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94YuCwwgJhGyR6Vv4WCjOxCWsxEVXJgyrGf0TKhGe-jC0Lhy2PfmKPlUDx0Y3Qm34WAdK3qlpHPl6luGPYZLXm0lCfOk3jgaLpPNwi3fvFdxAecOtfKWOKaslrblQysuVVTYa785ot7p8/s1600/IMG_0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94YuCwwgJhGyR6Vv4WCjOxCWsxEVXJgyrGf0TKhGe-jC0Lhy2PfmKPlUDx0Y3Qm34WAdK3qlpHPl6luGPYZLXm0lCfOk3jgaLpPNwi3fvFdxAecOtfKWOKaslrblQysuVVTYa785ot7p8/s320/IMG_0191.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are constantly on the go with the girls,<br />so he settles in in the carrier.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XYZlCNkI-RPajZ0w_SqWX1UV2KOxAjEe7RhshTGcHL5mH-Va2zYVAJSwVY_ywkrizHLiV1mRSREZxhor4Amr-LIwNrrRGSza-8iBfhWcY6F_maxjP41pwJwZPKuFuwbKH2Y3fcldwhC3/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XYZlCNkI-RPajZ0w_SqWX1UV2KOxAjEe7RhshTGcHL5mH-Va2zYVAJSwVY_ywkrizHLiV1mRSREZxhor4Amr-LIwNrrRGSza-8iBfhWcY6F_maxjP41pwJwZPKuFuwbKH2Y3fcldwhC3/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Real men wear baby pink sleep suits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideFtaW-4rESJh7egKK49cMTyMp3gb3QLyiZd1NDUt4r1bx2VlOLD_yMlH0_kADTVr3qiLTdSrIV_tu_OQ1OSMOZ-SLsyJ6I53t2i5rEZ4lMKTw4ZbStg89K9iJYJqcmyPu5XZRzp0bisl/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideFtaW-4rESJh7egKK49cMTyMp3gb3QLyiZd1NDUt4r1bx2VlOLD_yMlH0_kADTVr3qiLTdSrIV_tu_OQ1OSMOZ-SLsyJ6I53t2i5rEZ4lMKTw4ZbStg89K9iJYJqcmyPu5XZRzp0bisl/s320/IMG_0001.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out on the mat at Taekwondo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGx8X5xmRbY6RpWF808dSdVbEjBeHblzKPzjK74US1_RnaGAytsD62_ARRK7TukTPf6zN7DIJXDLHu8f-OcKOU8a9qDhM0KgigelmhYsxtba0PifUgdqt8cW-qkhvmT1lw4RX2fNdDoqxi/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGx8X5xmRbY6RpWF808dSdVbEjBeHblzKPzjK74US1_RnaGAytsD62_ARRK7TukTPf6zN7DIJXDLHu8f-OcKOU8a9qDhM0KgigelmhYsxtba0PifUgdqt8cW-qkhvmT1lw4RX2fNdDoqxi/s320/IMG_0006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying out the bumbo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4p4mVMiQUsFN9QaMOt7eGVxJwqCepuYJpEFReRoBQnXNJDHkrkMsuksSkfWa-q9sDj8L0M5AgMcmfotYKb0_gn2okG7MayJBUps00QnKkAnGlyueM3Q6hC_tbkCnDEtUaYb5bGUmFVIQK/s1600/IMG_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4p4mVMiQUsFN9QaMOt7eGVxJwqCepuYJpEFReRoBQnXNJDHkrkMsuksSkfWa-q9sDj8L0M5AgMcmfotYKb0_gn2okG7MayJBUps00QnKkAnGlyueM3Q6hC_tbkCnDEtUaYb5bGUmFVIQK/s320/IMG_0053.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Michael returns from California!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLKtJD7_ipEvAHjX4amo5EAt2DiteGc-nIaOsJTzkOlhobkCq63jvoE6ICcUgXSpWmza2xAUty9GsmGL50T7dAiWJdZ57wzm3XUgw3zzKrxfv-4Hwl0TLrkFOMXhcqhoSuYIeh97isCgx/s1600/IMG_0616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLKtJD7_ipEvAHjX4amo5EAt2DiteGc-nIaOsJTzkOlhobkCq63jvoE6ICcUgXSpWmza2xAUty9GsmGL50T7dAiWJdZ57wzm3XUgw3zzKrxfv-4Hwl0TLrkFOMXhcqhoSuYIeh97isCgx/s320/IMG_0616.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auntie Paige is back too! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LtxqnZyi9FGZX_xxXJA5DYD87CPG4qDbLJxcVLgUHpT-J5-nO5vLitbxImi4dg8_4tVoJpfXM6HKTlTx4fQZlmTB5-MiKqx8XXyhLFH9TG7pF1Cwy9Cf8Cm6Y3RPVLNL24sArLU1CTNI/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LtxqnZyi9FGZX_xxXJA5DYD87CPG4qDbLJxcVLgUHpT-J5-nO5vLitbxImi4dg8_4tVoJpfXM6HKTlTx4fQZlmTB5-MiKqx8XXyhLFH9TG7pF1Cwy9Cf8Cm6Y3RPVLNL24sArLU1CTNI/s320/IMG_0162.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teagan brushes her "pony" while telling him that<br />he is "going to win first prize."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKo8ncGzxVxsJBXZxend9mcg-g7Vbr1-83Af4y9XzKL-5mJCWHlRoKs6Jrty53ay6tiH99Vjc_rXLlvu1oHzBG5ZiYhAZ8NbXEWVNfq4c4MXUHxpDe3NzBYPXH_9z_kSdUTR6kX0ye5cz/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKo8ncGzxVxsJBXZxend9mcg-g7Vbr1-83Af4y9XzKL-5mJCWHlRoKs6Jrty53ay6tiH99Vjc_rXLlvu1oHzBG5ZiYhAZ8NbXEWVNfq4c4MXUHxpDe3NzBYPXH_9z_kSdUTR6kX0ye5cz/s320/IMG_0219.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the wrist creases and giant fingers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkOs5RQ-lt6pDM1mA_WnqTjcQEscTRdSbSz_A62EqzzFB-eDfyOtak-_xz2m2SKwRmfo_Dp4IHLhxIdtWdOl_2y9fSBdgTvCaVr52mJNpKdJLrFmE6sAvmCsWN15Y64jBJfiG7MggjrLI/s1600/IMG_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkOs5RQ-lt6pDM1mA_WnqTjcQEscTRdSbSz_A62EqzzFB-eDfyOtak-_xz2m2SKwRmfo_Dp4IHLhxIdtWdOl_2y9fSBdgTvCaVr52mJNpKdJLrFmE6sAvmCsWN15Y64jBJfiG7MggjrLI/s320/IMG_0231.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such goofballs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU-uPETT7Jo6h_Ok53I4iHWwSRV3-KUSLBU0MA04WeO61Yul9-UMjsDCj8P4dz6eK1sIoJvJuDfKZ5XP9gCG85wM3hpiox5d0UfZAybplddCnnH7pfZKHLZweUNE1nlBtK5ETuVegs1Q1/s1600/IMG_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU-uPETT7Jo6h_Ok53I4iHWwSRV3-KUSLBU0MA04WeO61Yul9-UMjsDCj8P4dz6eK1sIoJvJuDfKZ5XP9gCG85wM3hpiox5d0UfZAybplddCnnH7pfZKHLZweUNE1nlBtK5ETuVegs1Q1/s320/IMG_0299.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handsome brothers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLQ5WxcDAuDcyqnPSwydFp5qL40Y4o59scGEg5K6kWQOzL7Y-85A6g-kSkGWq2ped0xDIW_1lSJCrrsKw8VnlQHF0aNiQVvHZI69mDxv9-__Lyn2Tqx2QUbpEdPyc1T4ww9C_ejLyhDxH/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLQ5WxcDAuDcyqnPSwydFp5qL40Y4o59scGEg5K6kWQOzL7Y-85A6g-kSkGWq2ped0xDIW_1lSJCrrsKw8VnlQHF0aNiQVvHZI69mDxv9-__Lyn2Tqx2QUbpEdPyc1T4ww9C_ejLyhDxH/s320/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most adorable site from my rearview mirror (not taken<br />while driving!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5IDCxTxXOdB5QNR5h8LAQJha0gjwESOKUbYMV6OGXScjECvxBsFMe7olf8vJWK2-dXTUIbcKd_OJ0M4pYFZqILJg3dpNZ4tCT7tQIhZgK27ry4w2GuQsrtjXWf9TRkwsZtOxGoMmSHLU/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5IDCxTxXOdB5QNR5h8LAQJha0gjwESOKUbYMV6OGXScjECvxBsFMe7olf8vJWK2-dXTUIbcKd_OJ0M4pYFZqILJg3dpNZ4tCT7tQIhZgK27ry4w2GuQsrtjXWf9TRkwsZtOxGoMmSHLU/s320/IMG_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They clean up well :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8H9Lm4sDvvoC9h61HuBRKB2RcQaagLH-wbaMEPkWd-iMkoUFtFBKs33-2Ous7vqk9CL6EbkHm6LnpxE-rTwSHoG60RZAIYcZ835qeJslaIHV0brQeEalgkbBc6tRDQ3gb78nagk18Kk3/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8H9Lm4sDvvoC9h61HuBRKB2RcQaagLH-wbaMEPkWd-iMkoUFtFBKs33-2Ous7vqk9CL6EbkHm6LnpxE-rTwSHoG60RZAIYcZ835qeJslaIHV0brQeEalgkbBc6tRDQ3gb78nagk18Kk3/s320/IMG_0167.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lounging while his sisters play</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span id="goog_1731957825"></span><span id="goog_1731957826"></span><br />
<br />
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-25898705895246553892016-06-10T15:13:00.001-04:002016-06-10T15:13:11.948-04:005 Years Old!I have two 5-year olds (as of May 29th!). Kids, not toddlers. I've been particularly nostalgic this year as I watch Logan and am reminded of the girls at this stage.<br />
<br />
Teagan and Quinn were extremely excited to turn 5 this year. These days, there is a big focus on who is what age. They were given a hard time by their friends who turned 5 late last year or early this year. Not surprisingly, they quickly forgot how much it bothered them and immediately started talking about how their friend, H, was "only" 4. I asked them how it had made them feel a few months ago when their friends did the same thing. "Sad", was the reply. They quickly stopped.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>On the morning of their 5th birthday...almost to the exact time of birth :) 7:28am and 7:41am respectively. </i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIMiNzDIoUjDWfazGpfXvzF1ZXyM9M8JtvjN_ZnmW8dcFsQFFwFcMYheOz16T30ZWcq_fHiBckzUDGE1sok4MCr76p82tm8J1Ff2NopSafXxVzeRKvwWTfk79p84VyjB4Gl08GEubKx87/s1600/IMG_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIMiNzDIoUjDWfazGpfXvzF1ZXyM9M8JtvjN_ZnmW8dcFsQFFwFcMYheOz16T30ZWcq_fHiBckzUDGE1sok4MCr76p82tm8J1Ff2NopSafXxVzeRKvwWTfk79p84VyjB4Gl08GEubKx87/s320/IMG_0096.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBkrdFAPYBXNQ1c_3FboaKZU2g38NIXPcTRWpnlWKUazqdDo0Zb_6mU4PJoXJb1-sYKRzFnQSg3I8c265GXHkCNsN770UJR3pZ6qknxVQySOY5boBOOQVhGPq133ghxVC9Oy3p9SXPHW3/s1600/IMG_0098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBkrdFAPYBXNQ1c_3FboaKZU2g38NIXPcTRWpnlWKUazqdDo0Zb_6mU4PJoXJb1-sYKRzFnQSg3I8c265GXHkCNsN770UJR3pZ6qknxVQySOY5boBOOQVhGPq133ghxVC9Oy3p9SXPHW3/s320/IMG_0098.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>The school year is coming to an end and so (almost) completes their first year of Kindergarten. They have both loved and thrived in JK. I couldn't be happier with their school, teacher and program. I love that they're rarely sitting still. They spend their day moving about the classroom to different centres, going to gym class, drama, music and receives tons of outside time, including lots of free play. Both girls really improved in the reading and writing departments. Teagan has an incredible memory and can easily recall words and even books after just reading them once or twice. Quinn seems to really enjoy math and art. She's incredibly creative and often adds a unique spin to art projects. The girls have made some great friends (who have very nice moms - lucky me!), so it's nice to see them thriving socially too. They seem to have a group who they spend most of their time with, but do frequently branch out and play with other kids too. We have had lots of conversations about being kind and inclusive. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Throughout this school year, the girls participated in a variety of sports; skating, hockey, gymnastics, taekwondo, swimming and soccer. They've seemed to really enjoy it all. Swimming has been the only requirement in my book. It's a life skill that is absolutely necessary until they prove to be solid swimmers. The rest of the activities are up to them. Quinn's skating improved a ton this year. She flies around the ice now. She's as fearless as ever - amazing and terrifying for Mommy! Teagan gained quite a bit of confidence throughout the year and is skating much better. They got to play hockey with their two good friends so that was a huge hit. For part of the year, they had a incredible instructor, so getting them off the ice was often tough. Taekwondo was a new addition in the new year. They had seen a karate class and asked me for months if they could try it too. Their class is close by and the instructor is phenomenal -- a lot of fun, but very firm at the same time. The kids really respect him and I love the discipline that martial arts teaches. They're slowly working their way towards the next belt. The girls asked to play soccer this year, but so far, it doesn't seem to be a huge hit. We had to have a talk about trying our best and listening to the instructor at the last class. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The girls have the most incredible imaginations. They rarely play with toys anymore. If they do, the toys are used for something else (ie. dog food at their imaginary pet store). I am loving this age for their imaginations -- they will get lost in their own little world for ages. One day they are acrobats and the next they are chiropractors adjusting their animals. When they have friends over, they often play "family" or "school". Teagan tells me that she is often the dog! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Their energy still remains endless. They can play for hours, ride scooters, hike 5K and still have energy to spare. They love to wrestle and can be pretty rough with each other. People used to tell me that I was in for it while pregnant with a boy. Poor Logan is going to have to keep up with his sisters! My mom jokes, half-seriously, that their energy comes from being such healthy eaters. Thankfully, they generally are. Quinn has become somewhat picky in the last year or so. She can be quite unpredictable -- liking chicken one day and hating it the next for example. Typical kid, I know. She almost always eats, but sometimes does so reluctantly. She has gone to bed a handful of times not having eaten dinner. Teagan has always been a solid eater. She gravitates towards healthy, nutrient-dense foods. She devours meals and often tells me how delicious they are :)</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmaoTW5r04Mgdr1xfTsUEGuL27HjWHha7s-4gOcyCo-pGlcFjfCFOp6NvY_W9915rcqf-9QxIDB-eMkeQ-UzG2G9vI4K-nT8r2RAhSGENHuJ7qHQg-ccAJlu03E2FBDaEF-gyN8cM7BgF/s1600/2016-01-07+15.58.29-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmaoTW5r04Mgdr1xfTsUEGuL27HjWHha7s-4gOcyCo-pGlcFjfCFOp6NvY_W9915rcqf-9QxIDB-eMkeQ-UzG2G9vI4K-nT8r2RAhSGENHuJ7qHQg-ccAJlu03E2FBDaEF-gyN8cM7BgF/s320/2016-01-07+15.58.29-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wouldn't want to cross them in a dark alley...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2iA0Lu9anHMpBnA5HalxvdxzgubD5SnMxwx_kihXgGoKnbeQuQpMEiw4e6ij0de44U-p00oa_F_sGIl3WSlhRcVd1CbZHwq9aNLwUhW6mVSPKZVxNuBS3uQOPDSycQVXY5vm_dzzFuMp/s1600/2016-02-19+17.09.59-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2iA0Lu9anHMpBnA5HalxvdxzgubD5SnMxwx_kihXgGoKnbeQuQpMEiw4e6ij0de44U-p00oa_F_sGIl3WSlhRcVd1CbZHwq9aNLwUhW6mVSPKZVxNuBS3uQOPDSycQVXY5vm_dzzFuMp/s320/2016-02-19+17.09.59-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She always wanted to try being a goalie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAhLIdfpa9cZj9w5ohjy-0-7plPRVllAV6c5Q-_vRnwbLQS_Fk51DN_gnnS6mmgpTXJgx2Qcknu9osljwLN6RuueDpFsxZF8MqQ522HzMxDfgPbdYTmxV9o3K3h1IxemSyeIXpUSomZs5/s1600/2016-04-05+16.06.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAhLIdfpa9cZj9w5ohjy-0-7plPRVllAV6c5Q-_vRnwbLQS_Fk51DN_gnnS6mmgpTXJgx2Qcknu9osljwLN6RuueDpFsxZF8MqQ522HzMxDfgPbdYTmxV9o3K3h1IxemSyeIXpUSomZs5/s320/2016-04-05+16.06.24.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working hard at taekwondo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbsJzLmnkI0SWnUt9t9j3KOVc_HPq_YausWJzaMjqHUMmhVa6tT47wqcRgMfZWg5WIVlru3MQ5DAapCNJMvUx0YPN2_PxPpoJL28NTE2Lb6PbJ9Y1JHd_BHFcDZ1XKB3rZxJ8AfXryMGS/s1600/2016-04-10+11.23.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbsJzLmnkI0SWnUt9t9j3KOVc_HPq_YausWJzaMjqHUMmhVa6tT47wqcRgMfZWg5WIVlru3MQ5DAapCNJMvUx0YPN2_PxPpoJL28NTE2Lb6PbJ9Y1JHd_BHFcDZ1XKB3rZxJ8AfXryMGS/s320/2016-04-10+11.23.29.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They tried climbing recently and loved it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfz8dVHfdJBcq2tauLS9kB9W7YZ4Xv7_8qq9QrDuffsPKq9YIPNHOZhiiI8RLMPbnNce5i61KT5U4JaOqRLB1NGyBOuxx7L3nLfVC0CJ7G6M418qPUgIy-QorT2fyA4QvUKCkfpHHBH7JM/s1600/2016-05-19+16.15.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfz8dVHfdJBcq2tauLS9kB9W7YZ4Xv7_8qq9QrDuffsPKq9YIPNHOZhiiI8RLMPbnNce5i61KT5U4JaOqRLB1NGyBOuxx7L3nLfVC0CJ7G6M418qPUgIy-QorT2fyA4QvUKCkfpHHBH7JM/s320/2016-05-19+16.15.55.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ladder practice at taekwondo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsUuIO7HWzBHLdhtyBNrBEJx9XsQodCG0UysnLzW6EBFASI-Ob0bVxDGG5jNS7oMNZG6y88u-UjHGyC4_DAzIy2wpyETy8ksTBtRo_V4jh1pJa1_rZ3aiImKy3ZE0glbhZmodlL6NVwmZ/s1600/2016-03-19+17.44.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsUuIO7HWzBHLdhtyBNrBEJx9XsQodCG0UysnLzW6EBFASI-Ob0bVxDGG5jNS7oMNZG6y88u-UjHGyC4_DAzIy2wpyETy8ksTBtRo_V4jh1pJa1_rZ3aiImKy3ZE0glbhZmodlL6NVwmZ/s320/2016-03-19+17.44.24.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marshall and Everest meet Marshall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJEMZzZrJG0wln9bKuWWbPQy7JjlPtpZQh_0RRkZQTJcAsDgGHUS3_egef0oO5lM-JW0tLBvOsebpRrNjRq771S5Q6QQJfQH53mWnf-FTWXz5nGO4mabZwnjEfJLXEWUsGc4Fw2g2fJBl/s1600/2016-03-27+13.17.14-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJEMZzZrJG0wln9bKuWWbPQy7JjlPtpZQh_0RRkZQTJcAsDgGHUS3_egef0oO5lM-JW0tLBvOsebpRrNjRq771S5Q6QQJfQH53mWnf-FTWXz5nGO4mabZwnjEfJLXEWUsGc4Fw2g2fJBl/s320/2016-03-27+13.17.14-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming with Grandpa in Florida</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzU2wvNxG73MOhx-igvOkfpYRg0LQ7Vxtiu_aY6IAwJRgXy742Dz2fY0C7RG4xU4xRT1EDbiAgUDVo55936RrYrvQjf7fnQvqmT19rDbdfOF0QJ6XYAmmpankycwVOHmAGAmEKaKeqEw9Q/s1600/2016-03-28+08.51.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzU2wvNxG73MOhx-igvOkfpYRg0LQ7Vxtiu_aY6IAwJRgXy742Dz2fY0C7RG4xU4xRT1EDbiAgUDVo55936RrYrvQjf7fnQvqmT19rDbdfOF0QJ6XYAmmpankycwVOHmAGAmEKaKeqEw9Q/s320/2016-03-28+08.51.04.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And swimming with Mama!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3S1vpqlVsmMPAnU5SSCYC0azLiP8cskXjccSCTP5wMnP_a6TyorXgq1-uUwbd26bO5qG68AKyl4tX59jqFUmy4CYafjP79d9t1sbhMkzYaR4OaJ4bTv5U7fxlfORU3DG21jXzAPEjLGT/s1600/2016-03-29+11.21.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3S1vpqlVsmMPAnU5SSCYC0azLiP8cskXjccSCTP5wMnP_a6TyorXgq1-uUwbd26bO5qG68AKyl4tX59jqFUmy4CYafjP79d9t1sbhMkzYaR4OaJ4bTv5U7fxlfORU3DG21jXzAPEjLGT/s320/2016-03-29+11.21.57.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiet time in Atty and Grandpa's bed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfS6VIhT7pBBjLzR7M08tTo2D7Pu4xzuGIOOzS_RxLjzo9j2K2QE3mVwa8wQjMZlKonwUoQdwG8llOBBia-8RzQl8RkjoFkYVfh0TFpqrlENqsAL7yF8kUWW6lnwlwOWxEYw84R1Fh7xN/s1600/2016-03-31+15.18.46-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfS6VIhT7pBBjLzR7M08tTo2D7Pu4xzuGIOOzS_RxLjzo9j2K2QE3mVwa8wQjMZlKonwUoQdwG8llOBBia-8RzQl8RkjoFkYVfh0TFpqrlENqsAL7yF8kUWW6lnwlwOWxEYw84R1Fh7xN/s320/2016-03-31+15.18.46-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 monkeys in Florida </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81gxM_V2bQVg5aRdEMkSXkheRnl9EfmZnv4Vk8A-nohu-ZJ9-9zXiU919LWh-yvPO8NiVF3q_LEh46OtRRD6FI0aGdycxrOUIgBwnq2L2YuxmejZvI1tqPSC7aGEZebRbG8e2GFE5vGSP/s1600/2016-04-01+10.51.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81gxM_V2bQVg5aRdEMkSXkheRnl9EfmZnv4Vk8A-nohu-ZJ9-9zXiU919LWh-yvPO8NiVF3q_LEh46OtRRD6FI0aGdycxrOUIgBwnq2L2YuxmejZvI1tqPSC7aGEZebRbG8e2GFE5vGSP/s320/2016-04-01+10.51.09.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach fun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmZhK7fa1lU-ukJrKaNJU5-Yafm_-u0KuJ7v8aDWt0cdLRb93FOREpM_YRzvkSxaKx52rpQe1i0RVoXTt2usVkt-togAiNBUJ5WkTflSoGljLThsG3yIG3IfPp4ESrFheR77kzsIbh6s9/s1600/2016-04-01+11.13.33-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmZhK7fa1lU-ukJrKaNJU5-Yafm_-u0KuJ7v8aDWt0cdLRb93FOREpM_YRzvkSxaKx52rpQe1i0RVoXTt2usVkt-togAiNBUJ5WkTflSoGljLThsG3yIG3IfPp4ESrFheR77kzsIbh6s9/s320/2016-04-01+11.13.33-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baywatch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-45398297920624103892016-05-18T15:25:00.001-04:002016-05-18T15:25:29.717-04:003 Months Old! (plus a few days!)Life's been a little nutty lately. The last few weeks have been busy as we prepped our house to sell. It was on the market last week and lucky for us, sold quickly. Despite the craziness, we did manage to Logan's 3 month picture taken! Our little man is officially out of the newborn stage!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhda9iJRbHnztzgi3Jcl6R5RHu7PUVd45WaRyFE5eogrI3zQ9AA0C8wIjR7xichXEXR7hNj1oZeNW-T8KAiIYdPH7WJqsqP3mreKUogh31PAuKkvW-cat4YbgCN36E0rDSPImNZFGDnNCx0/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhda9iJRbHnztzgi3Jcl6R5RHu7PUVd45WaRyFE5eogrI3zQ9AA0C8wIjR7xichXEXR7hNj1oZeNW-T8KAiIYdPH7WJqsqP3mreKUogh31PAuKkvW-cat4YbgCN36E0rDSPImNZFGDnNCx0/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34svOypEkEX5KL1mYkwgDQorxe88_dk13A_i6sr85aSsbRFJ-9iPNXOXDtNxsIaTB6okNfTcCg9YSvOiH83wKPqLH1IK5d5P6lhc9jPBViKJmzIHZgZmx9DcvzH27duB9DNNox7xbkJZm/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34svOypEkEX5KL1mYkwgDQorxe88_dk13A_i6sr85aSsbRFJ-9iPNXOXDtNxsIaTB6okNfTcCg9YSvOiH83wKPqLH1IK5d5P6lhc9jPBViKJmzIHZgZmx9DcvzH27duB9DNNox7xbkJZm/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcSyFpX5XDsA6jhpln84FjdDD1eTd6zLbdzb6CG8B-P-Mhol5dPmcP_Ew1XHU4UxHM3nz0HHCJeGKzPwAiKtHEGFu-qqujWQWKEYhx_Q7qNHytFsFT-otEinjRaNZi8xzgZwzWuR8Xqop/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcSyFpX5XDsA6jhpln84FjdDD1eTd6zLbdzb6CG8B-P-Mhol5dPmcP_Ew1XHU4UxHM3nz0HHCJeGKzPwAiKtHEGFu-qqujWQWKEYhx_Q7qNHytFsFT-otEinjRaNZi8xzgZwzWuR8Xqop/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are two pretty major updates on Logan from a health perspective. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>At birth, our midwife noticed that he has hypospadias. It is a condition where the opening of his urethra is in the wrong place. Fortunately, he was able to pee normally, so immediate action didn't need to be taken. We did need to see a paediatrician when he was 2 days old. She referred us to Sick Kids, the children's hospital in Toronto. We recently saw a paediatric urologist. His case is fairly straightforward, but will require surgery. They will need to reconstruct his urethra, using his own tissue. It is a 2-hour procedure that is best done when the baby is about 8-9 months old. While I'm grateful that it is straightforward, the thought of my little guy being put under scares me. Lucky for us, we have one of the best children's hospitals in the world. I've already looked the surgeon up and discovered that he is "the man" when it comes to this procedure. He will be in good hands. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He failed his initial hearing screening in his left ear. The nurse attempted two different tests, but his left ear failed both. His right ear passed immediately. As a result, we were referred to an audiologist at the hospital. The test that they run at the hospital is far more involved. The baby has to be completely asleep during the test. A tricky feat for Logan and I considering he isn't the best napper. I fed him, rocked him, bounced him, rocked the carseat and finally put him in the carrier. I eventually got him into a good sleep state for the test. His left ear was not responding, so she switched to the right. She managed to get the information she needed from the right ear in 5 minutes. She went back to the left ear and tried higher frequencies, but it still was not responding. He woke a few times during the test, so she wasn't able to get all of the information she needed. She was confident that he does have permanent hearing loss, but could not say how much. He will be going back for more tests. Thankfully, his speech and language should not be affected since he has perfect hearing in his right ear. While this was hard to hear, I'm trying to remain positive and put things into perspective. His right ear works well. Hearing aids are pretty incredible these days. It might be an inconvenience, but it won't stop him from living a normal life. We will have more answers in the next month or so. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Naturally, when I need him to be asleep, he stays awake chomping on his hands and giving me big smiles!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO65VBJJZVohMwwZPuSBu_SkUgGIZfMG1NMngypWrKGCFdDbFI8mIHHcdJne6XA1ESyou5emLWXfbVzwJND5NSD3pbOKOuaGryJ89UWd8OmsTSox4GQtWTuxivfIooUF624jeau45Vqql/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO65VBJJZVohMwwZPuSBu_SkUgGIZfMG1NMngypWrKGCFdDbFI8mIHHcdJne6XA1ESyou5emLWXfbVzwJND5NSD3pbOKOuaGryJ89UWd8OmsTSox4GQtWTuxivfIooUF624jeau45Vqql/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWjF71moTp92Uv3kFR8bEzIqPMXIJkb5KzowZCp9Y1Exq62wp149RvfFY-lBl2nBlyhTZqDJmGqM8ParFvDJhmAso6IWcy_9xmGtGusACvFcgIvkfRTjlylh0wcF-lHngDD34li17aYlH/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWjF71moTp92Uv3kFR8bEzIqPMXIJkb5KzowZCp9Y1Exq62wp149RvfFY-lBl2nBlyhTZqDJmGqM8ParFvDJhmAso6IWcy_9xmGtGusACvFcgIvkfRTjlylh0wcF-lHngDD34li17aYlH/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGORvieaXJxFS_PUvNjkw5ZBuEPGvQOXO8VayGd8UuvWWlYz8PjPRE6NYblDv6RT98Joh_Ta75myAqeuTNzcpmZ7QNoEHBTquRUdlIw3VdCsnGIttjh77TVeiQshEf9sOK1D3rsJPlhbc/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGORvieaXJxFS_PUvNjkw5ZBuEPGvQOXO8VayGd8UuvWWlYz8PjPRE6NYblDv6RT98Joh_Ta75myAqeuTNzcpmZ7QNoEHBTquRUdlIw3VdCsnGIttjh77TVeiQshEf9sOK1D3rsJPlhbc/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>In other (more fun) news, he is chatting like crazy! I need to get a video of it. He has been trying out all sorts of sounds, including shrieking. He thinks it's pretty fantastic. Quinn, in particular, talks to him often. He usually responds with various sounds and she adores him for it! He is super smiley now too, particularly with the people he knows well. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tummy time is a work in progress. He can't stand it, but really, what baby enjoys it at first. He has a pretty large head, so I can only imagine how tough it is for him to keep it up. He does manage to get his head up and is starting to prop himself up on his forearms. Admittedly, I need to get him on his tummy a little bit more often. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He has become more predictable with morning naps. He has set a routine for himself, falling asleep around 8/8:30 and will usually sleep for an hour. This falls right around the time when I need to take the girls to school, so this nap takes place in the carrier. He is usually ready for the next nap around 10:30am. This one is on the go, in the stroller or carrier. I haven't had great success getting him to nap in his crib yet. He usually wakes after about 20 minutes. Soon enough, I need to crack down and get him napping at least once per day in the crib. It would be nice to have a few minutes to get things done around the house. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He has discovered his hands! He loves to chew on them, play with his fingers and cross his hands. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I still haven't had much luck on the bottle front. It breaks my heart to throw milk down the drain. We went out for dinner the other night. The little monkey waited for me for nearly 5 hours. I really hope that he will start taking one to give me a little more freedom and make it easier on the person babysitting. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Look at these faces. How lucky am I?!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbJqUmp9qMGM5uDLT1hH6axQnMEoGS9m-S215s1glI-6OdrUVFMGiYxQIEM_eY28QPZgimU9FxshVIkxLWXEiVyhh0gqdOARxddVVSqUn9GpsaFK5cLcUWq4rA5wOTjPQZEp3SlxnHntE/s1600/photo-283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbJqUmp9qMGM5uDLT1hH6axQnMEoGS9m-S215s1glI-6OdrUVFMGiYxQIEM_eY28QPZgimU9FxshVIkxLWXEiVyhh0gqdOARxddVVSqUn9GpsaFK5cLcUWq4rA5wOTjPQZEp3SlxnHntE/s320/photo-283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-53508288333411538962016-04-24T19:16:00.002-04:002016-04-24T19:16:53.326-04:002 Months OldLogan turned 2 months old on April 10th. I'm embarrassingly late posting this, but I swear I started it on the 10th! At least I'm posting it before 3 months, right?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1mR04j0R62ZOr6mMmTmrbqwCh6XCe4oCPdvvfNydJT-e-4JyKChHhiuTyWl6-UHikWc62bZkKjnh0X-bdKSf1Wtf63tVpmp0MoQ0L0Nn1P768u4oYQl8ulMiXoPyS7ujk_TceeNHImHU/s1600/IMG_2164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1mR04j0R62ZOr6mMmTmrbqwCh6XCe4oCPdvvfNydJT-e-4JyKChHhiuTyWl6-UHikWc62bZkKjnh0X-bdKSf1Wtf63tVpmp0MoQ0L0Nn1P768u4oYQl8ulMiXoPyS7ujk_TceeNHImHU/s320/IMG_2164.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>He's a total meatball! We guess that he is weighing in at about 12lbs. At our 6-week midwife discharge appointment, he weighed 10lbs 15oz. Based on these stats, it probably isn't surprising to learn that the boy loves to eat! Currently he is eating every 1.5-3 hours during the day. On the flip side, he is consistently sleeping for a 7-8 hour stretch at night (followed by another 3ish hours after he eats). He has yet to take a bottle from Jenn, but I really want to keep trying. I had to throw out 4oz of milk yesterday after two failed attempts and a few days in the fridge. It was painful. I loved having the option of giving the girls a bottle so that we could go out to dinner/have a life outside of the kids and would like that to continue! It's tough though because he LOVES the boob. I've realized that it is less about the milk and more about the boob. Jenn would put drops of milk on his lip but he would spit it out! It is clearly his comfort. He refuses to take an actual soother, so he uses me instead!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Napping during the day is still not his strong suit. He does get a good nap each morning but it is always in the Moby wrap or the car seat. I end up wearing him a ton during the day because he will not sleep for long in his crib, bouncy chair etc. I love having him in the carrier, but my poor back is taking a beating because there are days when he will spend hours in it and I need to keep moving.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He started smiling at about 6 weeks old. I forgot how amazing it is when they first start "giving back". He doesn't give them out easily, so you have to work for it! It is well worth the effort though because he has the most adorable little smile. It melts my heart when he smiles at Teagan and Quinn. They get so excited and make sure that everyone in the vicinity knows about it!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He knows what he wants and will let you know! We have realized that he loves to face out when being held, especially with me. I don't think he wants to miss anything. I also find that when I hold him against my chest, he starts "hen-pecking" even if he's eaten already. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> He's strong! He has great head and neck control already and will even try to lift his head while sitting in his bouncy chair. He also tries to stand up when I hold him on my lap.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEkW9zRBHymAQQ96LLMP7Nkot_bHooH3Yqew_mBbvTDdYihyphenhyphene80sGm9Uxsg0mAcSjzBnqj7Bfi5nemmJS5WTgmzdV3q38gk16JyMeM5_rhsq44x94g0OeaNa22p14KkTY89o_U7Jl4CVBi/s1600/IMG_1926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEkW9zRBHymAQQ96LLMP7Nkot_bHooH3Yqew_mBbvTDdYihyphenhyphene80sGm9Uxsg0mAcSjzBnqj7Bfi5nemmJS5WTgmzdV3q38gk16JyMeM5_rhsq44x94g0OeaNa22p14KkTY89o_U7Jl4CVBi/s320/IMG_1926.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our trio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwDUUlTsCiaXZaOMX5yBp3tgUcynvHmpuXTIzfAXIJZPVLOnu-RDJey3ow1HCSLVhtr8x5BviqJQ_pERkAjOnPGiRuP-FnQJBHbaFn5ffMqrMzf2EUtpwBrnCkVhIpPHzfdSC2loXoCxU/s1600/IMG_1978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwDUUlTsCiaXZaOMX5yBp3tgUcynvHmpuXTIzfAXIJZPVLOnu-RDJey3ow1HCSLVhtr8x5BviqJQ_pERkAjOnPGiRuP-FnQJBHbaFn5ffMqrMzf2EUtpwBrnCkVhIpPHzfdSC2loXoCxU/s320/IMG_1978.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beanie twins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWVlyvi-Rac41Lv10MLtYYBa8n-7OZV6AZqmiIFy2uuMIoTryyQcS9vTKOxLzkovgn1jyX3IQOEbYrUMDQjG0Tv7w3jaiEmfFSTsls0gs-_hTRKv-udi2nW3fCnDyKhAQQLYc2UoggkwB/s1600/IMG_1983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWVlyvi-Rac41Lv10MLtYYBa8n-7OZV6AZqmiIFy2uuMIoTryyQcS9vTKOxLzkovgn1jyX3IQOEbYrUMDQjG0Tv7w3jaiEmfFSTsls0gs-_hTRKv-udi2nW3fCnDyKhAQQLYc2UoggkwB/s320/IMG_1983.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love from Riles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyHE9wHRngVx-nOpxj9vtDzNKg-iBqw_5_4P3dvkrq71IiJJBJ-Zx82-hJBaqoN4JHWi4Y0GADFR5-yzsdLBC41F40qOJ-IobuJyiTczM6jwthhIBRnteeVWhgKHKaq40Jf_N-rmTpbdU/s1600/IMG_1984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyHE9wHRngVx-nOpxj9vtDzNKg-iBqw_5_4P3dvkrq71IiJJBJ-Zx82-hJBaqoN4JHWi4Y0GADFR5-yzsdLBC41F40qOJ-IobuJyiTczM6jwthhIBRnteeVWhgKHKaq40Jf_N-rmTpbdU/s320/IMG_1984.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">…and Carlee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgnxLj0LCWnoBSo29Ssx5g0DMk_R6u9i9ms4gy1j_ZRbRbWhfVKdgbC9iByoF_WqBiI3vXZ3QCIn9QG9dKKYpzgrob58BQyK4ejUouE9BK47BbO3a_va2pRH1PqwhN9Sos92Scba70bqH/s1600/IMG_1990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgnxLj0LCWnoBSo29Ssx5g0DMk_R6u9i9ms4gy1j_ZRbRbWhfVKdgbC9iByoF_WqBiI3vXZ3QCIn9QG9dKKYpzgrob58BQyK4ejUouE9BK47BbO3a_va2pRH1PqwhN9Sos92Scba70bqH/s320/IMG_1990.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midwife discharge day (with Sarah)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyZHmAGNeEag03pt9ncp2KhFmrYma_tJ_cSd3GyoGwicmKGbmMvL5Q-Qg_fIw6_MIJ0o3KbnJM-8vZyX1sNGCdJiF-E5sFmany59iEtxYZ7H8fkfK6M60aybwUNupRSti7Us4stjX9Kqi/s1600/IMG_2028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyZHmAGNeEag03pt9ncp2KhFmrYma_tJ_cSd3GyoGwicmKGbmMvL5Q-Qg_fIw6_MIJ0o3KbnJM-8vZyX1sNGCdJiF-E5sFmany59iEtxYZ7H8fkfK6M60aybwUNupRSti7Us4stjX9Kqi/s320/IMG_2028.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First smiles caught on camera!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFTEbXYx0_0Av_Mu58j1OT2jYc98Mn8tIV6Qq4Ad_0bzJKqmMsN3DtZjQptD-KPQWrC5IgUUGunezVu9T3WvCzqqIqqPGAwYs3wkd6zAXjO59m0mWyHdG35mdyF9ZHzc66-9H0KOdIqjL/s1600/IMG_2029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFTEbXYx0_0Av_Mu58j1OT2jYc98Mn8tIV6Qq4Ad_0bzJKqmMsN3DtZjQptD-KPQWrC5IgUUGunezVu9T3WvCzqqIqqPGAwYs3wkd6zAXjO59m0mWyHdG35mdyF9ZHzc66-9H0KOdIqjL/s320/IMG_2029.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-46390934420512025902016-04-08T13:17:00.002-04:002016-04-08T13:17:37.715-04:00February 10thAs Wednesday approaches each week, I think about the day that Logan was born. I also think about the day <i>before</i> he was born - I went to acupuncture, to the midwife and then to the grocery store to stock up before going to pick up the girls for Teagan's appointment with the naturopath. On every Wednesday for the past 8 weeks, I would think back to what I was doing at a particular time. The afternoons are always the hardest when I think back to how much I was struggling physically, mentally and emotionally. And then 4:17pm hits. Sometimes I notice it on the clock and sometimes I don't because I'm too busy with the kids. That fateful Wednesday.<br />
<br />
I've said over and over again how grateful I am for <a href="http://www.callaevansphotography.com/">Calla</a>'s photos. I look at these photos and watch the incredible slideshow that she made for us (if you'd like to see it, let me know) and now think about that day in a much more positive light. Here are just a few of her photos...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxvifHVHH4THANJZZITdP3Mgg7Q62_OILwet1rQ_mE2f32aCanT3i3JYQ3WEWtP72webp9lwkGFjXGCM-xXhbwBBmxOhIn-hiaiUTYMwCc7AgSN6BOekP3B8g1f8kjHVUPC-VfhngDBXhr/s1600/Logan_0001-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxvifHVHH4THANJZZITdP3Mgg7Q62_OILwet1rQ_mE2f32aCanT3i3JYQ3WEWtP72webp9lwkGFjXGCM-xXhbwBBmxOhIn-hiaiUTYMwCc7AgSN6BOekP3B8g1f8kjHVUPC-VfhngDBXhr/s320/Logan_0001-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEJjJdnk8bg87rUz57GiJ1nQZmsH0FS_Iqu9ltXSBsT835yRZIldOr5nonIS-HKN0dDD0ttiIowm3G2ztA1IoKWCkStUDhmAUnvAwry5mlvGYMGarwCtFVw0tYygY-_Yk5aVtOH99OgA3/s1600/Logan_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEJjJdnk8bg87rUz57GiJ1nQZmsH0FS_Iqu9ltXSBsT835yRZIldOr5nonIS-HKN0dDD0ttiIowm3G2ztA1IoKWCkStUDhmAUnvAwry5mlvGYMGarwCtFVw0tYygY-_Yk5aVtOH99OgA3/s320/Logan_0055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xm49IXbdI33GSWAsOLC__TVaIsovSgJq8xOARpJlEpJiWE5cOe_8RKiWxZRNvQr2M-NfTi-UPZxtIE3MuNtOilyDuVW8uhJwRrzWPvc6yr1jlppJPum4pOAjbyoRm9fq5mmKz1gEH86c/s1600/Logan_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xm49IXbdI33GSWAsOLC__TVaIsovSgJq8xOARpJlEpJiWE5cOe_8RKiWxZRNvQr2M-NfTi-UPZxtIE3MuNtOilyDuVW8uhJwRrzWPvc6yr1jlppJPum4pOAjbyoRm9fq5mmKz1gEH86c/s320/Logan_0057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Calla said that she asked the girls if they were allowed to do this. I'm sure you know that they replied...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfvNOwy1UGCSgkxqeRzfXuxscrMvLz4_VXCpo6li3e-oQgDX9SL428HGnLYIAvtcKgwWl8m9ZRM6PLcMeBsBpEgS5a845IiTURvyrrYsGl7Ro0Gr3iEKTElWCkfc9RVC4ieXp_kXxHs5R/s1600/Logan_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfvNOwy1UGCSgkxqeRzfXuxscrMvLz4_VXCpo6li3e-oQgDX9SL428HGnLYIAvtcKgwWl8m9ZRM6PLcMeBsBpEgS5a845IiTURvyrrYsGl7Ro0Gr3iEKTElWCkfc9RVC4ieXp_kXxHs5R/s320/Logan_0061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxK3EQZkdFUyi7UTNI_W8t6iGQmhE-ExA3qxJp9NvRVvs1ss8snwgVWJWU-0IM-ytFN-ZR6xdYkzLl3X8xV5DAnKEP9dCc1oNoMbHokQoUF2OQ-oybnE7qbzrqTV9HD6WNDsIjVfrQyTrV/s1600/Logan_0065-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxK3EQZkdFUyi7UTNI_W8t6iGQmhE-ExA3qxJp9NvRVvs1ss8snwgVWJWU-0IM-ytFN-ZR6xdYkzLl3X8xV5DAnKEP9dCc1oNoMbHokQoUF2OQ-oybnE7qbzrqTV9HD6WNDsIjVfrQyTrV/s320/Logan_0065-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKkwRHDD3aY1rUj42s9uAtttJ6AKhkgVHCv6QfKgEmLKNu65cf6yM568HG0h3IRkN7f5YVuUdnUF0gM96-_xxKHRJvg82xvTw0_ztYAethj0y6zH0k8lw36lLWjfWUH9YPCtBYYPoNq1s/s1600/Logan_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKkwRHDD3aY1rUj42s9uAtttJ6AKhkgVHCv6QfKgEmLKNu65cf6yM568HG0h3IRkN7f5YVuUdnUF0gM96-_xxKHRJvg82xvTw0_ztYAethj0y6zH0k8lw36lLWjfWUH9YPCtBYYPoNq1s/s320/Logan_0066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Teagan, Quinn, Calla, Adrienne and I were all fascinated by the placenta. The girls put on gloves and got right in there. (Skip over these photos if blood and placentas make you squeamish!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyfYG30oQKl08hqw2zno5rSHwKLup-osg594w5nm7tq2XiZLJOKZQHaSKGNdkkG0y4pTrgBUQS7so67V_MhSobzomdUsLabB7ilqNvdboozjPZJnsAkYNGrkxLSwOVhYV38rHqFCImVRG/s1600/Logan_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyfYG30oQKl08hqw2zno5rSHwKLup-osg594w5nm7tq2XiZLJOKZQHaSKGNdkkG0y4pTrgBUQS7so67V_MhSobzomdUsLabB7ilqNvdboozjPZJnsAkYNGrkxLSwOVhYV38rHqFCImVRG/s320/Logan_0084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmmSO7uWaVOI7i1J4TxOuIhA1mYMjfZFqq9IaODChPaG94jL-zBszmO-D6yxjYzONYUiGedPCivoLkyxot7d9lySqUXrYPJWsh2O7KznuYi1bDKTUCtKn6DeB1TWSpMrVhI582J1w0Yp4/s1600/Logan_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmmSO7uWaVOI7i1J4TxOuIhA1mYMjfZFqq9IaODChPaG94jL-zBszmO-D6yxjYzONYUiGedPCivoLkyxot7d9lySqUXrYPJWsh2O7KznuYi1bDKTUCtKn6DeB1TWSpMrVhI582J1w0Yp4/s320/Logan_0104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtyCU1JvzZbCzIgfRrfu-fHFsJ7rbBdap0K8hLUBOoN5euNnO5QppcXAlxbFQ-G5dAh2gHV45Ojw0wbJUBBUCCPmjchcKhw_Sx1S0QoZb5Kp2ici8U3lTI6HDs-OmFFe-yPFB18EKfvEM5/s1600/Logan_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtyCU1JvzZbCzIgfRrfu-fHFsJ7rbBdap0K8hLUBOoN5euNnO5QppcXAlxbFQ-G5dAh2gHV45Ojw0wbJUBBUCCPmjchcKhw_Sx1S0QoZb5Kp2ici8U3lTI6HDs-OmFFe-yPFB18EKfvEM5/s320/Logan_0108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNTaxMB_il2IihD1uMooWtOq2vZObwj8CJ4hHk2s3dRDLTggVZuZHpuYICOvPnBQWzDOPMMrzMS-cGN0cvin-9c65E8EYDaz5oIojiyhq-lkcmteEXVMijh-tjlMAGDp2nAsX6YBfA92K/s1600/Logan_0112-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNTaxMB_il2IihD1uMooWtOq2vZObwj8CJ4hHk2s3dRDLTggVZuZHpuYICOvPnBQWzDOPMMrzMS-cGN0cvin-9c65E8EYDaz5oIojiyhq-lkcmteEXVMijh-tjlMAGDp2nAsX6YBfA92K/s320/Logan_0112-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-JO8iBH1KuHYAfbKH__6XJxTKyN9WnLcfg5niS6dWzlFlhNp7DhDTQIMkG-lvTz5pBupBR8D2-5QBXbBUQgr3anI2gkzHWpBOdgRE9emAOZXTx4KERvi00_ftk_MuZRtQHnu5fSvVg6o/s1600/Logan_0115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-JO8iBH1KuHYAfbKH__6XJxTKyN9WnLcfg5niS6dWzlFlhNp7DhDTQIMkG-lvTz5pBupBR8D2-5QBXbBUQgr3anI2gkzHWpBOdgRE9emAOZXTx4KERvi00_ftk_MuZRtQHnu5fSvVg6o/s320/Logan_0115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7EvJOmKkvu_9g5_hNL6rYzubqa5dGA2-t13MeMUItvRtr9hx-Ermi93xl60wenrVY4oZnvGYCswzTbN88viwuR55pm90POiKqxiFUHcVp7vjp3RupzHBCZ0p_A3qaO3JmN64Q7UEzSKT/s1600/Logan_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7EvJOmKkvu_9g5_hNL6rYzubqa5dGA2-t13MeMUItvRtr9hx-Ermi93xl60wenrVY4oZnvGYCswzTbN88viwuR55pm90POiKqxiFUHcVp7vjp3RupzHBCZ0p_A3qaO3JmN64Q7UEzSKT/s320/Logan_0117.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a artificial knot in the cord. I can't remember the name<br />for it, but it didn't cause problems for Logan's growth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYRYvrJoviv0_1gfxtJk4jVjLWo-4iNzRNxNpj326O-KPWZ3O4lM1pxH-2rk_MgaGpGjWSZgKGFafMk0GAI_DzqcZBiKwWyRlrMpxyBt99yXXmpmpRpZArOsx01P-Zg3wGtNmRUCyyqqTA/s1600/Logan_0119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYRYvrJoviv0_1gfxtJk4jVjLWo-4iNzRNxNpj326O-KPWZ3O4lM1pxH-2rk_MgaGpGjWSZgKGFafMk0GAI_DzqcZBiKwWyRlrMpxyBt99yXXmpmpRpZArOsx01P-Zg3wGtNmRUCyyqqTA/s320/Logan_0119.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Atty and her grandson. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8o0b-tfpL-z_FeUmVR4vmyLKwwu1ylFVdOgRWHvdAJ0DGmZST3jTNq-2ObzQqyemhegEl97h-LBbbjdIhAgUIu-gPuw6XY3J9NVlSJeXzW2B0szFuv7VlZZTaOG0zTcohwI73bJ6h_4s2/s1600/Logan_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8o0b-tfpL-z_FeUmVR4vmyLKwwu1ylFVdOgRWHvdAJ0DGmZST3jTNq-2ObzQqyemhegEl97h-LBbbjdIhAgUIu-gPuw6XY3J9NVlSJeXzW2B0szFuv7VlZZTaOG0zTcohwI73bJ6h_4s2/s320/Logan_0131.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-r_yJLhaGOaErMml4vRnSQHxHuxeH5VO4oKcIKcW5ISwvSE05FlM-tGzrrGfq8WNjRMQn9Q9n_l9ISr0I3wTwt7tPZ1O8ZmVsZox4OWToTho0fA16VqZEisyAxjN2WyA7-yO2M4NSQvEL/s1600/Logan_0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-r_yJLhaGOaErMml4vRnSQHxHuxeH5VO4oKcIKcW5ISwvSE05FlM-tGzrrGfq8WNjRMQn9Q9n_l9ISr0I3wTwt7tPZ1O8ZmVsZox4OWToTho0fA16VqZEisyAxjN2WyA7-yO2M4NSQvEL/s320/Logan_0145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Logan's first chiropractic adjustment!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-fd2XvVWY-IRafXVKPMSNj271FKpPT7YOpRIgi3LCe3Sk2vL1wqgTtDYpRCDxJuLC_3qSqBXLPuFLEG9Np0osKZV3ukdyFwFP6zeAvDH9OmbYPxTJB8rdvx7kVAcF2NJfoQzCUACqSnZ/s1600/Logan_0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-fd2XvVWY-IRafXVKPMSNj271FKpPT7YOpRIgi3LCe3Sk2vL1wqgTtDYpRCDxJuLC_3qSqBXLPuFLEG9Np0osKZV3ukdyFwFP6zeAvDH9OmbYPxTJB8rdvx7kVAcF2NJfoQzCUACqSnZ/s320/Logan_0200.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4FeufSAEXkBKCEMQCSrgaIyG6RAJxiY8wOtI-rap_uGu4VZ9a3xuydQNIxYNUlH7UpeA5PbalToJLmR5XypSgD9LmOkRwocldBGvD99aNei_-zeospGS-qthPiNruse54pUhd_ZuYZMo/s1600/Logan_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4FeufSAEXkBKCEMQCSrgaIyG6RAJxiY8wOtI-rap_uGu4VZ9a3xuydQNIxYNUlH7UpeA5PbalToJLmR5XypSgD9LmOkRwocldBGvD99aNei_-zeospGS-qthPiNruse54pUhd_ZuYZMo/s320/Logan_0231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh532zBnjO4aZSlmQel9hUFDvapLokXUc_ZcwYaFDrus8E5m0eXeRmfWQ5C1eJohNC-g5eapmOHBp8LCX1p3xoX_p8xEGnmZHrH9MF0us2Tifweprx6yD7WEv6BoXSHBUz0v5k1RfAkA4V0/s1600/Logan_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh532zBnjO4aZSlmQel9hUFDvapLokXUc_ZcwYaFDrus8E5m0eXeRmfWQ5C1eJohNC-g5eapmOHBp8LCX1p3xoX_p8xEGnmZHrH9MF0us2Tifweprx6yD7WEv6BoXSHBUz0v5k1RfAkA4V0/s320/Logan_0059.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNEyLWqCmv9cskATo5zuUZP-WhY19OTIfR51yJY6MrqLbJehNHMMwsGPZZwiqYnJTkKCF_1zxoGHMsXgdJD9OPoayBu6z5sguAK-IB-tIhvMTePXCftalvNf5UG55xSOZsaK9MdlZ_uyN/s1600/Logan_0227-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNEyLWqCmv9cskATo5zuUZP-WhY19OTIfR51yJY6MrqLbJehNHMMwsGPZZwiqYnJTkKCF_1zxoGHMsXgdJD9OPoayBu6z5sguAK-IB-tIhvMTePXCftalvNf5UG55xSOZsaK9MdlZ_uyN/s320/Logan_0227-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtJp3OYdLbDDAD5YNUGNtcuqpkFNHXNYYujKb17NIIf_0_e6oimsuweHXP4549PaF8rxB8nRhyphenhyphenpjTclBF9IfAfN6_gTCyBC41kB-gxdT4HCne7Vn2Zrz_z5Xg6PzqBULvKDxaTF6TDtA6/s1600/Logan_0240-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtJp3OYdLbDDAD5YNUGNtcuqpkFNHXNYYujKb17NIIf_0_e6oimsuweHXP4549PaF8rxB8nRhyphenhyphenpjTclBF9IfAfN6_gTCyBC41kB-gxdT4HCne7Vn2Zrz_z5Xg6PzqBULvKDxaTF6TDtA6/s320/Logan_0240-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiWJSb_4TGS8e_rA3Cr8KWmPY7qyyL1RvM_Wno96hrwZq-Pww94uaD23zyEMOpg2MXXTKoH-cV3BXSN6IQVDqZ6tSXrn7dfNRkffP6mJF91YhQ9KMcN4i50xVHRe1sJyDkT-oru1WcKmr/s1600/Logan_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiWJSb_4TGS8e_rA3Cr8KWmPY7qyyL1RvM_Wno96hrwZq-Pww94uaD23zyEMOpg2MXXTKoH-cV3BXSN6IQVDqZ6tSXrn7dfNRkffP6mJF91YhQ9KMcN4i50xVHRe1sJyDkT-oru1WcKmr/s320/Logan_0246.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cousins!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjp7Rfq6iUi-x8sGrUj1BlH-A0SJvV97rleakuC_NbVs6wSik_M-9xAyBfOwii-lRjUuWclWbNTkpxV72QRI7q90yPtHvbLE2LmwtbL3TseeWOV35zJlAFb2G39mo7xvuriL922FuRd7Xk/s1600/Logan_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjp7Rfq6iUi-x8sGrUj1BlH-A0SJvV97rleakuC_NbVs6wSik_M-9xAyBfOwii-lRjUuWclWbNTkpxV72QRI7q90yPtHvbLE2LmwtbL3TseeWOV35zJlAFb2G39mo7xvuriL922FuRd7Xk/s320/Logan_0320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHI9-NFuaFNsX-OT0u25U379tg9h1cIug1rWbjQqO1pcsGYmFXnZQyKx8ZCKcLUbGfO8I723jnkb1NM-JtZf5z0vQs9Y8yj2-DlHZ1cPhCyvsJhPKvdP_zwa7E6BCVmb2ER1XNEm2HlHWj/s1600/Logan_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHI9-NFuaFNsX-OT0u25U379tg9h1cIug1rWbjQqO1pcsGYmFXnZQyKx8ZCKcLUbGfO8I723jnkb1NM-JtZf5z0vQs9Y8yj2-DlHZ1cPhCyvsJhPKvdP_zwa7E6BCVmb2ER1XNEm2HlHWj/s320/Logan_0299.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-36692784711901676372016-03-17T14:52:00.000-04:002016-03-17T14:52:01.214-04:00One Month Old (+ one week)!The fact that I'm getting two blog posts in for the month of March is a win in my book! Forget the fact that I'm a week late on Logan's one month birthday!<br />
<br />
In some ways, the month has flown by, but in others it seems like it has taken forever. When you're in the thick of the newborn stage, it can feel like it will never end. But then I look at my two 4-year olds and am reminded that time can fly by.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLMCYUt2OdSPFv9t1TYmjUGHni_sCDDjLf8Vkn94FIb9HgRFYkEIgC3MiC-WCxi5mpFvVvxyBRDJDVydq9WLJt_55l0NLZjBEvnVKhJ1p1KEhX7zXJd8JWrI2NeEltE6_r3wow_hCm2u8/s1600/2016-03-10+18.15.12-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLMCYUt2OdSPFv9t1TYmjUGHni_sCDDjLf8Vkn94FIb9HgRFYkEIgC3MiC-WCxi5mpFvVvxyBRDJDVydq9WLJt_55l0NLZjBEvnVKhJ1p1KEhX7zXJd8JWrI2NeEltE6_r3wow_hCm2u8/s320/2016-03-10+18.15.12-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>At one month exactly, Logan weighed 9lbs 11.5oz (birth weight was 7lbs 8oz). He barely lost weight after birth and surpassed his birth weight after just five days. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He eats like a champ! (If you hadn't guessed!) Breastfeeding has gone extremely well. He slept for the first day, but after that developed quite the appetite. We did have to do some work on his latch, as he wouldn't open his mouth very wide, which caused him to bite me. It's been an adjustment for me to feed on demand after feeding the girls on a strict schedule from the beginning. During the day, he eats every hour and a half on average. I can stretch it to 2 hours if we are out and he's sleeping. But, when he wants to eat, there is no holding him off. He loses his mind quickly and cries like someone is hurting him. This dude knows what he wants!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>He figured out night and day very quickly! From about a week old, he started going to bed easily at 9pm and sleeping until 1-3am. He then goes back to sleep for another 4ish hours. He usually wakes around 5-6am. I feed him and then hope and pray he will sleep until after I've fed the girls breakfast and gotten them ready for school. When that happens, our chaotic morning is that much more manageable. Unfortunately, daytime sleep is non-existent unless we are out and he's moving. I've been trying hard to get him to sleep at home. He will fall asleep while nursing, but if I attempt to move him, he's usually awake within minutes. I did get him down twice in his crib yesterday. Those naps lasted for 25 minutes each. Gotta start somewhere! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Overall, Logan has been far more high maintenance than the twins were combined. He can be quite fussy and isn't soothed by anything but the boob. He LOVES breastfeeding and comfort nursing. He doesn't actually need to be drinking milk, he will happily use me as his pacifier. And yes, we have tried soothers! He will not take one for me (big surprise) and has taken one for Jenn less than a handful of times. He is also not a fan of the swing. The horror! The girls adored it and would sleep in it happily. He will tolerate it for 15 minutes at a time. Same goes for a bouncy seat. He likes to be carried, so I often wear him. I love wearing him, but like having a few minutes in the day when he's not attached to me via carrier or boob! In the evenings, he cluster feeds so I often eat dinner with him on my lap. This too shall pass! I realized today that the daytime fussiness is likely due to him being overtired. The four of us were out all morning and he slept way more than he usually does. When he was awake he was happy. He also fell asleep much easier. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>When he's awake and happy, he is extremely alert. He really likes it when the girls are close to him. Teagan will sit in front of him and read books. I've noticed that he will be content as long as she's sitting there. If she gets up, he gets upset quickly. While life with three kids is busy, the girls have been amazing. They are incredibly helpful and absolutely adore their baby brother. In the mornings, they will hold him for me while I run around packing things up. I can't wait until he starts to smile at them! </li>
</ul>
<div>
When Logan was just a few days old, we did a photo shoot with my amazing friend <a href="http://www.laurenlawrencephotography.com/">Lauren</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil22uyVmUQOp-7bZftjvue-BRfX20qNLTpT_MmXjYGwVewlRr02aHB3bN8smJf1pMFcuqocQcAIKXP64MiQUcOPln3rVBDg0kZq9AOSiI1z3JVWR5snrwNgyM0_m811RGnTy4w63TCqtzk/s1600/Logan-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil22uyVmUQOp-7bZftjvue-BRfX20qNLTpT_MmXjYGwVewlRr02aHB3bN8smJf1pMFcuqocQcAIKXP64MiQUcOPln3rVBDg0kZq9AOSiI1z3JVWR5snrwNgyM0_m811RGnTy4w63TCqtzk/s320/Logan-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoaYJIn4jkLIozPJ3pBi5_WlwpwuhON3muXQ1_gKT4ekX1RUHhLDvSHfLvHRrDxTKJaXNqt8g6YpPtZjSNEjPwXkF6rBiXRCUrj9Uj6caJb_a9NpK7j7XsNBsNGWBUwbrOb61REZTTZy-/s1600/Logan-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoaYJIn4jkLIozPJ3pBi5_WlwpwuhON3muXQ1_gKT4ekX1RUHhLDvSHfLvHRrDxTKJaXNqt8g6YpPtZjSNEjPwXkF6rBiXRCUrj9Uj6caJb_a9NpK7j7XsNBsNGWBUwbrOb61REZTTZy-/s320/Logan-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKaydPsO7wlylQhVnUiCfGNdm4AQS4J0SS5qZI26zyiASaR_69Ap20fzj25vuGoSdNNVAEJqdAMiciWujjTfYoFlCKbUnA1qj4-LOWr5TklkKOavScuyxeJC5IHgH_x2_CJEtAQuHfwz4/s1600/Logan-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKaydPsO7wlylQhVnUiCfGNdm4AQS4J0SS5qZI26zyiASaR_69Ap20fzj25vuGoSdNNVAEJqdAMiciWujjTfYoFlCKbUnA1qj4-LOWr5TklkKOavScuyxeJC5IHgH_x2_CJEtAQuHfwz4/s320/Logan-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh373GUD1yRagFynfvZtpXLHIzKWxYbtt0845-3GR2xAxx38hdXp-QMBWSjKA-5P_AIy0UrSEfp4HyogmFw8aYA-DpMe7MsSjBVgp5NbS2PzO1r7xvFmmS1B7Qp1tjLpvlHiB5nU9LxZIPi/s1600/Logan-4V.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh373GUD1yRagFynfvZtpXLHIzKWxYbtt0845-3GR2xAxx38hdXp-QMBWSjKA-5P_AIy0UrSEfp4HyogmFw8aYA-DpMe7MsSjBVgp5NbS2PzO1r7xvFmmS1B7Qp1tjLpvlHiB5nU9LxZIPi/s320/Logan-4V.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho71Tg8Q-lQSfvGpQLYps2X_KcMQiAov4lGSv0UvBFR-3rCQNBE9igNiO1cEzJcS17HFoCC5Nm0BR29PzonQHLynKFJzgIzAogVIocYU504oK2ELSmILSiyhBi9Y7jYRlZ548jbuwg0Jn2/s1600/Logan-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho71Tg8Q-lQSfvGpQLYps2X_KcMQiAov4lGSv0UvBFR-3rCQNBE9igNiO1cEzJcS17HFoCC5Nm0BR29PzonQHLynKFJzgIzAogVIocYU504oK2ELSmILSiyhBi9Y7jYRlZ548jbuwg0Jn2/s320/Logan-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJICF38HHhsdExVRZ4eI4nHR2Ub5sSwi49iYaH_pil764kA9AO5Rd5ZPej18KxK-dylrywcfnIUwBXEf9fht_wfaobecx4BaLILMgOHiM3K8Af_rqORPMNhzXBynrUbPIo-jasH02nC1O5/s1600/Logan-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJICF38HHhsdExVRZ4eI4nHR2Ub5sSwi49iYaH_pil764kA9AO5Rd5ZPej18KxK-dylrywcfnIUwBXEf9fht_wfaobecx4BaLILMgOHiM3K8Af_rqORPMNhzXBynrUbPIo-jasH02nC1O5/s320/Logan-10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjItT9iWtZ1ClOVD852kYn-9T4UWBC-KdXCNXo1KVy5CAekugKn0GFWoRxCKdFVJ37f7BIHuz_wUgO9RG0IkOZpOJkMoqsFNkMjlNan6uQFAM9eI_kOAhQGAAdfmKx0wKvgTjr6YOAzmsoU/s1600/Logan-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjItT9iWtZ1ClOVD852kYn-9T4UWBC-KdXCNXo1KVy5CAekugKn0GFWoRxCKdFVJ37f7BIHuz_wUgO9RG0IkOZpOJkMoqsFNkMjlNan6uQFAM9eI_kOAhQGAAdfmKx0wKvgTjr6YOAzmsoU/s320/Logan-14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODgOs0l3FSwIU_ck7_Dyzm22IweMtdHKpQ046GxUUhBIO4bpCxlSuwxYAzPX3AZPUiUSqsvZk4RB7iK3NBGNsl8IeY3_OeMvdG0709CHadKph-hPawlSLEQX8yFFa83tyMMMUXTfYUj5O/s1600/Logan-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODgOs0l3FSwIU_ck7_Dyzm22IweMtdHKpQ046GxUUhBIO4bpCxlSuwxYAzPX3AZPUiUSqsvZk4RB7iK3NBGNsl8IeY3_OeMvdG0709CHadKph-hPawlSLEQX8yFFa83tyMMMUXTfYUj5O/s320/Logan-15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNzOO5UQWJ6yvZVtMmokoFslqNmIq8XEHg7kHZbkvPZ9OSP-wITbruEihNcwQ5oWpoPHCxD0p5p7zT8CNFFo7Lbtc6iu-cJUIG6JSb_gC9QFtxKpqN7uGsX0gnP4C9LrFeqSuNQAm8spu/s1600/Logan-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNzOO5UQWJ6yvZVtMmokoFslqNmIq8XEHg7kHZbkvPZ9OSP-wITbruEihNcwQ5oWpoPHCxD0p5p7zT8CNFFo7Lbtc6iu-cJUIG6JSb_gC9QFtxKpqN7uGsX0gnP4C9LrFeqSuNQAm8spu/s320/Logan-27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WhsPCeNFzW2L2OYHDIQcOPZdDR8DDj37Tb2bnEF4-WlrHDHHR7gOQc_u908FH40SKf5DHuYK-rlLkndtj0A-f3zcCC_dhN4Wc7NH_D6sbRh-hZMVk5_Vv5dmWBuXvJ-cPlSm7j4H4WcR/s1600/Logan-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WhsPCeNFzW2L2OYHDIQcOPZdDR8DDj37Tb2bnEF4-WlrHDHHR7gOQc_u908FH40SKf5DHuYK-rlLkndtj0A-f3zcCC_dhN4Wc7NH_D6sbRh-hZMVk5_Vv5dmWBuXvJ-cPlSm7j4H4WcR/s320/Logan-28.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLceWjHTM_4knoboeZAZ6e_SSnzqgNJYfq4J15kYrmaKYtNkS9KLW58d8wOU4fQJfRSe_0PlHoGLO3DguhKkiW06C95PZdFo9dPOs7Sqr89WxC6r5m6TjPlPWsndwkuMCArYTtZBcjCoha/s1600/Logan-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLceWjHTM_4knoboeZAZ6e_SSnzqgNJYfq4J15kYrmaKYtNkS9KLW58d8wOU4fQJfRSe_0PlHoGLO3DguhKkiW06C95PZdFo9dPOs7Sqr89WxC6r5m6TjPlPWsndwkuMCArYTtZBcjCoha/s320/Logan-30.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-82486779851156640652016-03-01T19:18:00.000-05:002016-03-04T13:54:33.492-05:00So, we had a baby and this is how he came into the world! Logan arrived on Wednesday, February 10th at 4:17pm, weighing 7lbs 8oz. and 20 inches long.<br />
<br />
I'm going to be writing his birth story in two parts; the reality of what actually happened and then my experience. Bear with me!<br />
<br />
Jenn came to bed at midnight as Tuesday rolled into Wednesday. I woke up enough to notice the cramping and slight backache. I tried to shift positions. I got up to use the washroom. Nothing seemed to alleviate it, so after an hour, I went downstairs. I wanted Jenn to get some sleep because I somehow knew that the mild cramps were the start of labour. At 1am, I decided to make the girls' lunches so that it would be finished if things progressed quickly. I then decided to lay on the couch and try to get a bit of rest. I drifted in and out of sleep as the cramps and back pain would came and went. At about 6:30am, I went upstairs to let Jenn know what was going on. With nervous excitement, we talked about how today might just be our son's birthday.<br />
<br />
The girls woke minutes later and we continued on with our morning as usual. I texted my doula, Adrienne, and <a href="http://www.callaevansphotography.com/">our birth photographer, Calla</a>, to let them know that it looked like things were starting. Adrienne suggested a hot bath -- if it was real labour, she said, the bath wouldn't stop it. The back pain and cramping continued when I got out of the bath. Jenn asked if she should stay home. I felt like I was probably ok, but asked her to hang around through breakfast. I ate despite not feeling like it. I knew that as labour progressed I would probably not want to eat. Periodically, I would have to lean over the counter to stretch out my back. The back labour had become uncomfortable, but was still totally manageable. I ended up telling Jenn that she could head to work and I would call when things started ramping up.<br />
<br />
After dropping the girls at school, I came home feeling quite tired. I went back to bed hoping that I could get a little bit more rest. About 45 minutes later, contractions started in the way that I had expected. It would begin in my back and then wrap around to my abdomen. I tried lying down through the first one, which was tough. When the second one hit 10 minutes later, I got up and walked through it. They were quite uncomfortable, but manageable. After five more contractions that all came about 10 minutes apart, I texted Jenn and asked her to come home. It seemed like things were progressing. And then, just like that, the contractions were gone. However, the back labour remained constant.<br />
<br />
My sister-in-law, Kelly, came by with my niece at about 11. Adrienne had suggested that I alternate rest and movement, so Kelly and I went out for a walk. Prior to heading out, I froze while on the stairs during a contraction. Jenn looked at me and said, "I think we should call Sarah." I quickly told her that I was ok. "I don't want to be delivering this baby!" She replied. Jenn and Kelly then joked about that happening. Kelly and I headed out to walk and she kept me distracted by talking to me about a variety of things. Once we were home, I tried to rest again. I remained in contact with Adrienne through the morning. She told me that she would come my way midday. At that point, I thought that I was doing ok and likely wasn't too far along since labour had not progressed as I would have hoped (despite being noticeably more uncomfortable). There was still no pattern to the contractions and they weren't lasting for longer. By 1pm or so, my mood had shifted and I was feeling quite down because labour didn't seem to be progressing. I was feeling frustrated, tired and uncomfortable. By 2pm, I started doubting my ability to handle natural childbirth, however, I never verbalized that to anyone. As the back pain intensified, walking through it became tough. I started leaning over our dresser breathing through the pain as best as I could. I remember Adrienne talking about relaxing my entire body through contractions. She had said that it is tough to dilate if your body is completely tensed up. Doing this is damn hard and requires a lot of focus. I did text my midwife, Sarah, around this time. However, I apparently downplayed things by starting the text with, "just wanted to give you the heads up that I'm having some mild contractions…" But, because I couldn't identify a pattern to the contractions and they weren't lasting for longer periods (and I was able to talk through it), she didn't think I was very far along either.<br />
<br />
At around 2:45, Jenn came up to check on me just as I was throwing up everything in my stomach. This made me feel even more discouraged because I had done a good job of drinking a ton of liquids and I had eaten some food, in order to keep my energy up for active labour and birth. Jenn then went to pick up the girls from school. When they got back, she came to check on me around 3:45. At this point, the pain was extremely intense. Jenn could see it in my face and demanded that we page everyone immediately. She called my mom to come for the girls. She called Adrienne, who was going to come ASAP. I paged Sarah, the midwife, who called back immediately. At 3:57pm (according to my phone!), while talking to Sarah and standing in our bedroom, I could no longer talk through the pain/contractions and then without warning, the urge to push came on. Sarah told me to get Jenn. I yelled for her and Sarah quickly told her to see if she could see the baby's head. She couldn't at that moment. I remember freaking out because I felt like I was bleeding a lot. Fortunately, I wasn't. Sarah insisted that Jenn get me on the bed immediately. I remember yelling that I didn't want to lay down, but understood that it was best given the situation. I told Jenn that we needed towels on the bed so she threw some down quickly. I'm not sure what happened at this point, but we got off the phone with Sarah. She must have been running to get into her car. She had been at the hospital, which is a 15 minute drive in good traffic.<br />
<br />
Once Jenn helped me lie down, I asked her to give me my phone. <i>"WHY?!"</i> She asked. <i>"I need to write to Calla!"</i> (our birth photographer) I knew that if I didn't, I would regret it.<br />
<br />
<i>"Can you come to my house?"</i><br />
<i>"Things moved quickly"</i><br />
<i>"I think baby is coming."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Calla also jumped in her car and headed over immediately.<br />
<br />
Sarah must have called back right when she got in her car because the next thing I remember was hearing her on speaker phone. I was told not to push but the urge was far too strong. The contractions were painful, intense and coming one after another without breaks. I remember feeling panicked with how quick things were moving. Especially with just Jenn and I (and the girls, who were downstairs). Jenn remained focused and incredibly strong for all of us. According to Sarah's notes, I was distressed! I definitely was, given that the baby was coming and she wasn't there. After a few minutes of pushing, my mom came running into the room just as the baby's head was crowning. Sarah told Jenn that she wasn't going to make it before the baby arrives. She told her to grab a ton of receiving blankets. She also told her that they would have to call 911. My mom called immediately. Around this time, Quinn came running upstairs in tears. The sight of the blood and seeing me in pain was clearly upsetting to her. Jenn ran out into the hall and reassured her that I was ok, but the baby was coming soon. She asked (begged!) Quinn to go downstairs and watch TV with Teagan. Thankfully Quinn agreed. Jenn ran back to my side and held my hand through contraction after contraction. I pushed with frantic determination, knowing that immense relief was coming as soon as he was out. Moments later, the baby's head was out and again, according to Sarah's notes, his body was out less than a minute later. Jenn stood waiting with a receiving blanket in her hands. Logan was born right into his Mama's arms! Thankfully, he screamed immediately and his body was pink. Sarah said to put him on my chest, skin-to-skin, and cover him in blankets. Pushing a baby out is the most painful, intense and amazing thing I've ever experienced. The relief once he was laid on my chest was equally overwhelming. In those seconds after birth, I remember looking down at him in complete shock over what had just happened. While I realize now that he was completely fine, I started to panic because it sounded like he was having trouble breathing. Sarah told us that we should get a clean cloth and wipe out his mouth, but she seemed to know that he was ok based on how he sounded over the phone. The 911 operator told my mom that she needed to find string to tie the cord. Sarah overheard my mom say this and yelled, <i>"No! Don't tie the cord!"</i> I wouldn't have let them given that I wanted to delay cord clamping. I don't recall much else, until Sarah came running in just minutes after he was born. Then came the fire department. Then the paramedics. Then came Adrienne, Tracy, my second midwife, and Calla. Calla immediately started snapping photos, pausing briefly to smile and say, "I knew it!" She then told me that I texted her exactly 10 minutes before he was born! I joked that she should have told me it was going to happen like this! The firemen respectfully stayed out in the hall since it was clear that things were under control. Before leaving, they fixed one of our smoke detectors that was hanging from the ceiling and wrote us up for not having a carbon monoxide detector (which we actually do have, but they didn't see because it was in our bedroom).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39PmkiD2T_R3jgIgLcZS9pGjFcWSgNUR81apowINUQfPQ78YVJU9E4FonnQL9-Y6zJjw0_HsCueqIShfj2bLStKTEACcBU7LxjtbMjTDV_MEEqb7V2dytgLFnLlx5PsE2CYsMMQtuyTZN/s1600/Logan_003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39PmkiD2T_R3jgIgLcZS9pGjFcWSgNUR81apowINUQfPQ78YVJU9E4FonnQL9-Y6zJjw0_HsCueqIShfj2bLStKTEACcBU7LxjtbMjTDV_MEEqb7V2dytgLFnLlx5PsE2CYsMMQtuyTZN/s320/Logan_003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXECy837LfLAS8X96ae4suXs4houx-02eroxkaWXxW_6USOJ6ktWNgiKO1VtybYvXDLIKYshxq2kZlu_5-0CzxEGCdE4V8yWv8T4G-5mvj6ohUR2ksxhOwCsMccTqiEvUax4ahJpUZGfR/s1600/Logan_004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXECy837LfLAS8X96ae4suXs4houx-02eroxkaWXxW_6USOJ6ktWNgiKO1VtybYvXDLIKYshxq2kZlu_5-0CzxEGCdE4V8yWv8T4G-5mvj6ohUR2ksxhOwCsMccTqiEvUax4ahJpUZGfR/s320/Logan_004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MRhbjj2TgDikNxtiRM3_o_xkMp1yFzWAC71Qv4O6lH11PYpy9ahG0BbRDidG1xzx9BQHzgifvkNqUbNqxgSx9aHwxCjtIKsfsNMiVi2JLK19gCPrms20RiWjKn-eCE3ommzpsIFP-Nei/s1600/Logan_005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MRhbjj2TgDikNxtiRM3_o_xkMp1yFzWAC71Qv4O6lH11PYpy9ahG0BbRDidG1xzx9BQHzgifvkNqUbNqxgSx9aHwxCjtIKsfsNMiVi2JLK19gCPrms20RiWjKn-eCE3ommzpsIFP-Nei/s320/Logan_005.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was incredibly grateful that Sarah was the first to arrive because she was able to jump in and take care of Logan and me. Sarah clamped the cord and let Jenn cut it. The paramedics didn't try to take over (Thank God!), but did take my blood pressure and check my heart rate. At this point, my legs were shaking uncontrollably, which I was assured is completely normal post-birth. Sarah, then had me deliver the placenta, and told me that my bleeding was completely normal. After freaking out numerous times over thinking that I was bleeding too much, that was a relief to hear.<br />
<br />
At this point, I think I asked my Mom and the girls to come back up to meet the little guy. The girls got up on the bed next to me and gently and lovingly gave their new baby brother some kisses.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiCphHbGt6xLKqBZRjSJBLrfPZ_A9c6puTXx6XKFD0rQ5VS_c_fT1oSvZ8y6SJhXyCpZh4b6cKopvCURf12DC_etlrHK9Cqm5N-duT3lnqVjUcD-xGnfHq3DyCS7WT5rkUf3g9q-muee-/s1600/Logan_001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiCphHbGt6xLKqBZRjSJBLrfPZ_A9c6puTXx6XKFD0rQ5VS_c_fT1oSvZ8y6SJhXyCpZh4b6cKopvCURf12DC_etlrHK9Cqm5N-duT3lnqVjUcD-xGnfHq3DyCS7WT5rkUf3g9q-muee-/s320/Logan_001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I did end up tearing while pushing him out, so Sarah froze the area and stitched me up. She suggested that the girls leave the room at this point, but could come back in afterwards.<br />
<br />
Everyone was strongly suggesting that I drink something with some sugar in it, so Adrienne brought me a glass of juice. It was also suggested that I eat. I really wasn't hungry, but knew that I should eat something. Lucky for me, my mom had made me some homemade, organic chicken soup. It was the perfect post-birth meal.<br />
<br />
Logan lay covered and skin-to-skin with me for quite a while. He was sleepy but did manage to latch and breastfeed for a little while. Eventually Adrienne checked him out and give him his first adjustment (Adrienne is also our chiropractor).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh-ltxdtPUlI94U5bvZd4bW8KSYkaT487O_O8AwWv3Gob-NHpsUU3v7-B8iJ_iUwN1xtKleVMJ6m59CicSSYwN9DhZXpf4EmiWucP-C56WSseXgdnOjNmLsfUf6CmEpr-Py-84pVN6JYC/s1600/Logan_013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh-ltxdtPUlI94U5bvZd4bW8KSYkaT487O_O8AwWv3Gob-NHpsUU3v7-B8iJ_iUwN1xtKleVMJ6m59CicSSYwN9DhZXpf4EmiWucP-C56WSseXgdnOjNmLsfUf6CmEpr-Py-84pVN6JYC/s320/Logan_013.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And Sarah did his newborn exam and weighed him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoH7g1J3LYx7Ev8h0kVd_FfBliTJvF-Uh7x3dZkG2dRYcjKLV6ty0P7F5OcTZxXHja8OrDnRafj-CNVCLjpnvO-g9vxsjm_Optt8phOqOPMhG4BBIgJCULZC4JgqwLQOTCc-9tN_fZupq/s1600/Logan_009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoH7g1J3LYx7Ev8h0kVd_FfBliTJvF-Uh7x3dZkG2dRYcjKLV6ty0P7F5OcTZxXHja8OrDnRafj-CNVCLjpnvO-g9vxsjm_Optt8phOqOPMhG4BBIgJCULZC4JgqwLQOTCc-9tN_fZupq/s320/Logan_009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMCEKE-owhce7ICgFnbdPkAIIhlTV8yrhxdnM0H139FNP7UxjRM0Hr_xECpshPLu-PLAlOQh-Tn7KVACRAnVgrH_e6jiXl-lUu0ToE6YOUDahfTg-U8PbfVHLZq2-2My-QM9CVdTYQT8F/s1600/Logan_015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMCEKE-owhce7ICgFnbdPkAIIhlTV8yrhxdnM0H139FNP7UxjRM0Hr_xECpshPLu-PLAlOQh-Tn7KVACRAnVgrH_e6jiXl-lUu0ToE6YOUDahfTg-U8PbfVHLZq2-2My-QM9CVdTYQT8F/s320/Logan_015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKunXqhPb0JSaJ2gvOYHxz6f1KbJy9WIcj-VuLdc24RDni97wP0rtVA9uQ2cbKAwvj6xS5mporrTsTOG94dlWz9CHZf56WbUd6GJifouPC6OIF4PRXiRMYzTHDitUmt0wpS1EzlftLUk3Z/s1600/Logan_016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKunXqhPb0JSaJ2gvOYHxz6f1KbJy9WIcj-VuLdc24RDni97wP0rtVA9uQ2cbKAwvj6xS5mporrTsTOG94dlWz9CHZf56WbUd6GJifouPC6OIF4PRXiRMYzTHDitUmt0wpS1EzlftLUk3Z/s320/Logan_016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV3EJQRCq5BnxCgtfJpKP4_S2Cf2HS0SW7sisFxyJSBCFMh3KV92Waw6D3mMgoVrOdtO-yQN8rtfuql4rGKRDJuCCB6WFnOdZo2toEeaMvgU9-T9Rb1BdbkV2hFfOdgKgHeaPCy7spe2o/s1600/Logan_017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV3EJQRCq5BnxCgtfJpKP4_S2Cf2HS0SW7sisFxyJSBCFMh3KV92Waw6D3mMgoVrOdtO-yQN8rtfuql4rGKRDJuCCB6WFnOdZo2toEeaMvgU9-T9Rb1BdbkV2hFfOdgKgHeaPCy7spe2o/s320/Logan_017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfLNuOBD8pMnJ3fIO8uRC4igjwSYO6FJ2icS3Ui0rRPl4yv9IjmC5oFh1oKJwZjsnDomae0t9G0SFce_DYeCzlv_kKtfOMrX6KRAHQWxf1uPNuLxcd_jmbkT60FJAfvZA-qk02O9PKu1r/s1600/Logan_018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfLNuOBD8pMnJ3fIO8uRC4igjwSYO6FJ2icS3Ui0rRPl4yv9IjmC5oFh1oKJwZjsnDomae0t9G0SFce_DYeCzlv_kKtfOMrX6KRAHQWxf1uPNuLxcd_jmbkT60FJAfvZA-qk02O9PKu1r/s320/Logan_018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBkeZIdWgGbgPOBds8bvH8iPyKYCo_9NvAxxvj5N7hM4aXyXLOftD_mq6LmAmeYmtScnt9Rhv_wIObxX7P-n3etxg4z6qerKVWY86pz7VPmZWkEebypuQJIPVgrFg3h_flY6jdTU30hDF/s1600/Logan_020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBkeZIdWgGbgPOBds8bvH8iPyKYCo_9NvAxxvj5N7hM4aXyXLOftD_mq6LmAmeYmtScnt9Rhv_wIObxX7P-n3etxg4z6qerKVWY86pz7VPmZWkEebypuQJIPVgrFg3h_flY6jdTU30hDF/s320/Logan_020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
His temperature had dropped slightly so the midwives wanted him skin-to-skin with me again. They covered him with blankets and put a heating pad in between some of the layers. He warmed up in no time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sarah asked if we wanted a tour of the placenta. I didn't end up seeing the girls' placentas last time because I was feeling quite nauseous during and after delivery. I definitely wanted to see it this time. The girls were into it as well. Sarah set everything up next to me on the bed and gave each of the girls a glove so that they could touch the placenta if they wanted. We only have this picture right now, but as soon as Calla sends the rest, I will definitely add more!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcu6t-eEFYspY61zRAm7QAx0XttplcayGVCo3z_DrjkcQf-QcfYe8N7Kw-mpv74WOcprybsaiMZQwHLQLhXJcajQhT8_V1L_h5PgzdU2g2zz6JuzucYZyiw81BhDHlXoaiCpIwefb9F0DF/s1600/Logan_007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcu6t-eEFYspY61zRAm7QAx0XttplcayGVCo3z_DrjkcQf-QcfYe8N7Kw-mpv74WOcprybsaiMZQwHLQLhXJcajQhT8_V1L_h5PgzdU2g2zz6JuzucYZyiw81BhDHlXoaiCpIwefb9F0DF/s320/Logan_007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span id="goog_1602953432"></span><span id="goog_1602953433"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Eventually, he was bundled up so that he could be cuddled…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYnM876KE0NOmADby1pfteu5q8EZKtiZ_gU1kkwOOUj5_kKuArN-rkG2omZ6964wxlKyZR1lCIihCGhURg7O2V6NwJXONOtLt4MfP7-ElUUFBhj3m8_Bk6XVa2DVcZv16hDlQ75hR3odR/s1600/Logan_025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYnM876KE0NOmADby1pfteu5q8EZKtiZ_gU1kkwOOUj5_kKuArN-rkG2omZ6964wxlKyZR1lCIihCGhURg7O2V6NwJXONOtLt4MfP7-ElUUFBhj3m8_Bk6XVa2DVcZv16hDlQ75hR3odR/s320/Logan_025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6_OGcp5OQxpqUC5S1bGpdrA-2XLPFBsALgBsyQFrnMT2j7GDD6VJxatj-_qksrKukRMuBnGu6tlT2pdoc4024YbLTHlMnAnk1AIe09T6GKd9yBsEn63ES6So77yle4vfYKFiGWb6kUrQ/s1600/Logan_008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6_OGcp5OQxpqUC5S1bGpdrA-2XLPFBsALgBsyQFrnMT2j7GDD6VJxatj-_qksrKukRMuBnGu6tlT2pdoc4024YbLTHlMnAnk1AIe09T6GKd9yBsEn63ES6So77yle4vfYKFiGWb6kUrQ/s320/Logan_008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyXk1FRh0ppo5Ox4wY-VECcf6DozPAyDSyKHF5hkm_lsMsJVPP8mtGGs5mwSCJyPuGldTya4iYzVhoUwzLSZwQLS2YYG8lVULDEXCU541BHUHRiqpfrPYxzGhA0LbJg8cG-XpA7qKfmEc/s1600/Logan_022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyXk1FRh0ppo5Ox4wY-VECcf6DozPAyDSyKHF5hkm_lsMsJVPP8mtGGs5mwSCJyPuGldTya4iYzVhoUwzLSZwQLS2YYG8lVULDEXCU541BHUHRiqpfrPYxzGhA0LbJg8cG-XpA7qKfmEc/s320/Logan_022.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
…and meet his aunt, uncle and future partner in crime!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXTNoYxSezfWditiF0sTG2E2L91jTzGstSLBxFbxr5uByUoYSuqMrCJusdt1cRZzwilo3HfeugHuY2NHv5_HtQeKxtMn0jA54lcxb3laHyEtBZnkdl5zkm3E93UXiFx6MdEFguPCuJ3rf/s1600/Logan_028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjXTNoYxSezfWditiF0sTG2E2L91jTzGstSLBxFbxr5uByUoYSuqMrCJusdt1cRZzwilo3HfeugHuY2NHv5_HtQeKxtMn0jA54lcxb3laHyEtBZnkdl5zkm3E93UXiFx6MdEFguPCuJ3rf/s320/Logan_028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Mom headed off to her place with the girls. They were going to feed them dinner and take them in for a sleepover. It was nice for us all. Jenn and I were able to get to know our newest addition and the girls were able to have my parents' undivided attention. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple hours after Logan was born, Tracy helped me get up to use the washroom. You've gotta go pee before the midwives can leave after birth! I felt like I had been hit by a truck walking to the washroom that first time. However, the discomfort wasn't as bad as it was with the twins. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I was in the washroom, everyone stripped the bed. Our fitted sheet was immediately thrown into a garbage bag. We were all amazed and impressed to see that our awesome mattress cover completely protected our new memory foam mattress from the mess of birth. I haven't written to the company yet, but plan to! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once I was back in bed, the little man was laid back on my chest to attempt nursing once more. He ate a little but mostly snoozed. The midwives, Adrienne and Calla headed out after an eventful few hours. Rob and Kelly had brought over food for us. Rob and Jenn ate downstairs, while Kelly and I (and the babies) chatted upstairs. My Dad also came down to meet his first grandson that evening. Once they headed home, Jenn and I turned off the light for our first night with Logan. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
________________<br />
<br />
Coulda…shoulda…woulda. It's hard not to let your mind go there when something doesn't go as you planned and hoped. It's pointless and frustrating, I know. It all becomes so clear when you're out of the situation, sitting in silence. Looking back to February 10th and writing my birth story has been incredibly helpful and therapeutic. All the signs of labour progressing were actually there when I reread it (I'm sure you thought the same -- <i>why did she not call for help sooner??</i>). When you're in it, tired and in pain, nothing in clear. I think we've all been there, but my story is just a bit more dramatic than most.<br />
<br />
Giving birth completely naturally (drug-free) was something that I always wanted to do for myself. When I found out that I was pregnant with the twins, I had to let some of my birth plan go. I was lucky enough to have a midwife, but had to deliver in the hospital. Finding out that I was pregnant with a singleton this time allowed me the chance to have the natural birth that I always wanted. Jenn and I decided that I would give birth at the new <a href="http://www.torontobirthcentre.ca/">Toronto Birth Centre</a>.<br />
<br />
I tried to prepare myself well. We already had the midwives. We hired Adrienne as our doula. I listened to the hypnobirthing CDs that she gave me every night for the last several weeks of the pregnancy. I thoughtfully wrote a birth plan. I'm not naive enough to think that doing all of this and visualizing my ideal birth would actually make it come to be. I know that things change and baby calls the shots, but I never would have guessed that things would happen the way they did. I was completely caught off guard, which is why I'm having such a hard time processing my labour and delivery.<br />
<br />
It's a great story. A story that everyone wants to hear. A story that will still be amazing to tell many years from now. I get that. For me though, it is way more than just a great story. As Adrienne pointed out to me, to most people that's all it will ever be because that's what I'll share. The wild story of an unplanned, unassisted home birth that ended with mom and baby being healthy. Grounds for a TLC show, eh?! Sharing my experience and my feelings is not something that I want to talk to everyone about. (Although I realize that if I do publish this post, you are reading it now. I feel ok with that though.) Once the shock wore off a few days after the birth, I realized how upsetting it was for me. It took me several more days to actually start putting what I was feeling into words. I cried frequently as I was sorting out my emotions. People called and texted their congratulatory messages. They asked how the baby was doing. They wanted to hear the whole story and sat there in front of me or on the phone with jaws dropped, exclaiming, <i>"what a great story!"</i>, at the end of it. No one asked how I was doing. Like really doing, until Sarah came by a few days after his birth for our check up. <i>"How are you?"</i> She asked in such a way that I immediately knew what she meant. It was then that I realized that I actually <i>needed</i> someone to ask that. I'm not sure how I didn't burst into tears. I needed to talk about what had happened. I needed to process it now so I could move on. Sarah used the word <i>traumatic</i> to describe what I went through. It was to an extent. She assured me that it would take time, but it would be ok. Adrienne came by a few days after the birth as well. We spent 2.5 hours talking and processing, which she also needed to do too. I hadn't realized that our support team might need to process what had happened also. This was, by far, the most helpful talk that I've had. I'm incredibly grateful for Adrienne and her support through this process. I'm not sure that I would have spent the many hours writing all of this if it wasn't for her.<br />
<br />
One of the hardest parts of all of this has been the fact that I went through my entire labour alone. I feel upset and even angry with myself for preparing so well and putting together a great support team, only to go it alone. Looking back to that day now, I should have had Adrienne come over at 1pm, when she said that she would. (shoulda…useless now, I know) At the time, I remember thinking that I was likely not very far along because I felt like I was physically able to handle the pain. So, I told Adrienne that I was ok. What was difficult for me to realize while I was in it, was that I needed the support emotionally. I know that I handle physical pain quite well, so I likely was further along than I realized then. I am also the type to not verbalize physical pain because I feel like makes it that much more difficult to manage. I dig deep and push through. This was labour though and not sports, so I probably should have changed my tactics. Labour and delivery is a completely different breed of pain. Throughout this process, I've tried to find the positives. I'm proud of myself for going through labour and delivery naturally. I'm proud of myself for actually handling the pain of labour so well, despite my intense self-doubts during that afternoon. Asking for help has never been my strong suit. Treat everything as a learning experience. I've certainly been reminded to ask for help and to do so even when I don't think that I need it. <br />
<br />
As I said earlier, it has been tough to write this and clearly see the signs that <i>should</i> have triggered me to ask Adrienne to come over much sooner. Had she been there, she <i>could</i> have helped me through that emotional low and provided support and reassurance. She definitely <i>would</i> have known when to call Sarah. Shoulda, coulda, woulda...useless, but deserves acknowledgement. So, what are the positives. In our prenatal visits, we talked about how to physically and mentally handle contractions. Adrienne also gave me a hypnobirthing CD, which I listened to every single night for weeks leading up to Logan's birth. The techniques Adrienne taught me and the positive affirmations from the CDs, helped me get through the contractions quite well apparently.<br />
<br />
The urge to push came on suddenly and (at the time) seemingly out of the blue. It was initially terrifying. I kept saying, "I don't know what's happening." I also felt like I was bleeding excessively. I realize now that some of that fear was due to the fact that two friends of mine who gave birth recently hemorrhaged and bled quite a lot. I'm grateful that it happened when I was on the phone with Sarah. I wasn't thinking clearly and was panicked and distressed. She got me to call for Jenn immediately. Having Jenn next to me and Sarah on the phone helped, despite how I might have sounded at the time. I was terrified but deep down knew that everything would be ok with Sarah guiding us through what we needed to do. But, given the speed at which everything happened, I really wish I had had Sarah and Adrienne there. While my body knew what it had to do, I know that things would have gone more smoothly and I wouldn't have been so frantic had they been there to reassure me and help me breathe properly. But, on the positive side of things, everything turned out perfectly, all things considered -- Logan came out easily, there were no issues with the cord around his neck (another fear I had), he was screaming and pink and I was physically ok. And, Sarah arrived in time to deliver the placenta -- for that, Jenn is forever grateful!<br />
<br />
I have several other positive reflections from that day.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>While seeing and hearing me give birth was scary for Teagan and Quinn, the excitement (for all of us!) of meeting their baby brother minutes after birth overshadowed the fear. I had wanted them to meet him shortly after birth and for that to be captured in Calla's photos.</li>
<li>I had also wanted my Mom to be at the birth. I know that it was somewhat traumatizing for her to come in and see me like that just as the baby's head was crowning, but I'm still grateful that she was there. </li>
<li>Giving birth at home was convenient! I didn't have to leave the comfort of my bed. We didn't have to bundle our newborn up just hours after birth and head home. I highly recommend it -- WITH a midwife present, of course. </li>
<li>Jenn and I shared something so unique and special that we will forever cherish. Having your partner deliver your child is not something that too many people have experienced. </li>
<li>I am incredibly lucky to have Jenn. She was terrified on that afternoon as well, but she stayed strong and focused for me (and the girls). She managed to calm a scared Quinn in the midst of it all. She was truly my rock on that day. </li>
</ul>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-39632997891117441142016-02-03T13:58:00.003-05:002016-02-03T13:58:39.963-05:00Nesting...or maybe just tired. In the last week, I've slowed down. It was actually forced on me. I'm a firm believer in listening to one's body. I'm a believer in it, but don't always do it.<br />
<br />
About a week and a half ago, I got really sick. Sicker than I've ever been in my life. I was in bed for three days straight. It was awful. My body had sent me warning signs before that, telling me to move a bit slower and pack less into my day. I didn't listen so it shut things down. Well played body, but did you have to go so extreme?! It took me over a week to get my energy back and even now, a week and a half later, I still have some mild congestion.<br />
<br />
On Monday, despite feeling exhausted, I had this intense urge to get my labour bag packed. I also wanted to get the girls' bags packed and their 'gifts from baby' prepped (tote bags that say 'big sister' and are full of fun items). I did a mountain of laundry as well. I hadn't slept well the night before but adrenaline took over and I was surprisingly productive for being 38 weeks pregnant. When I went to bed (at 8pm!) that night, I felt "weird", the only way to describe it really. I had this unusual pressure, as if baby was dropping even lower into my pelvis. It was the first time I wondered if maybe something was going to happen soon. Obviously, it didn't. I'm grateful. I would like him to cook for just a little longer. Come the weekend, I'm good to go though!<br />
<br />
A week ago, my midwives came for a home visit. The student midwife took my blood pressure and it was high. Too high for comfort. The midwife was surprised and took it herself with her own blood pressure cuff. It was lower. She said that the student's cuff was likely not calibrated correctly. I was still concerned. My blood pressure had spiked on the day that I was induced with the twins, likely because my body was done with carrying 12lbs of baby, so it wasn't completely out of the ordinary. Nothing like a minor blood pressure scare late in pregnancy to put things into perspective. I was back at the midwife clinic today and fortunately, my blood pressure was normal.<br />
<br />
I've been booking less into my days now. I physically can't run around and be on my feet constantly like I was before. Nor do I want to. I actually want to stay home. I actually want to do laundry! I want to rest when my back starts aching. I want to lie on the couch and cuddle with the girls.<br />
<br />
It kind of feels like nesting, but could also just be my body placing a limitation on what it can do at this stage. Either way, I'm ok with it!Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-50720538394861612612016-01-17T16:31:00.000-05:002016-01-17T16:31:45.717-05:00Tales from a Coconut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a while, I know. I seem to start every post like that now. Fortunately (and sadly for the blog), this pregnancy has been uneventful. My twin pregnancy was too, but with the constant monitoring and the fact that it was a first pregnancy, there as always lots to report. </div>
<br />
I feel incredibly fortunate that things have gone smoothly so far. The little dude always has a nice heart rate and is perfectly sized for his gestational age at each midwife appointment. He's a mover. Clearly, his sisters stretched out his digs because he was constantly doing flips until recently. Now, at nearly 36 weeks, his quarters have become tight so movements are quite as drastic. I'm grateful though because as of Thursday, he was head down. He's strong though. His kicks and stretches are forceful. He lets me know when I'm in a position that he doesn't like. The girls did the same but I think because there were two of them and they were smaller, their kicks didn't stop me in my tracks. According to my weekly email, he's somewhere in the 4.2 - 5.8lbs range and is likely around 18". He is going to fatten up quite a bit before birth, but won't grow much longer.<br />
<br />
Overall, I've been feeling pretty good. My sleep wasn't great in the first trimester, but once the fatigue subsided and I started exercising more, it improved. I still have nights where I'll wake and have trouble falling back to sleep, but it doesn't happen more than once or twice per week. I've stayed active with bootcamp twice per week, yoga and dog walking (and the general running around that comes with having two 4-year olds). As a result, the common pregnancy aches and pains have been kept at a minimum. Recently, my lower back has started to get sore when I'm on my feet all day and don't take time to rest (don't tell my Mom!). Once I lie down, the soreness subsides. He is also lying extremely low in my belly, so the pelvic pressure can be intense at times. Changing positions usually alleviates it. I've been getting Braxton Hicks contractions for quite a while now, but they really aren't bothersome.<br />
<br />
While I can't wait to meet this little guy, I'm also trying hard to enjoy the last few weeks of pregnancy knowing that it will be my last. I love feeling him kick and watching the waves across my belly. I love the way the girls give him kisses, hugs and constantly ask me how the baby is doing today. At just 4, they take such good care of me. They can tell when I need to rest and will set up the pillows on the couch for me. The three (or four, I should say!) of us have found a position that works so that we can all have a cuddle. When the kicks to my pelvis are particularly strong and stop me in my tracks, I love how Teagan will say, "I know, Mommy. The baby kicks you hard." I'll miss all of that. I'll also miss it being the three of us. Being home with the girls for the past 4.5 years has been a roller coaster. It's been wonderful and I'm so grateful for the time we've had. From the day trips to the quiet afternoons reading and doing crafts to the classes, activities and park visits to cooking and baking to finding new ways to manage fights and tantrums, it's been adventure! In a way, I think I'm also mourning my babies, as the girls become kids who recently started kindergarten. But, that's how life goes and we're onto a new adventure!<br />
<br />
The girls' playroom has been turned into the baby's room and the basement has now become their playroom. The baby is becoming more of a focus in our house as his due date approaches. The girls have been incredible with it all so far. No doubt that the tough part is yet to come, but so far, they're been great. As excited as they are for his arrival, it has got to be hard for them. I do feel anxious about how they'll do when he is finally here, but know that we are going to do everything we can too make sure they feel loved. They are going to love helping out and at 4.5 years old, there's a lot they can do. It makes me grateful for the age gap.<br />
<br />
Embarrassingly, I haven't taken any bump photos during this pregnancy, apart from one at 22 weeks. A pregnant friend of mine asked me for a picture the other day, so I snapped a quick selfie. And then for fun, compared it to my twin bump…such a difference! I'm grateful that I was pregnant with twins first!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSvYFZnrY-IwZzsjyCE8nsrz1yFlt_Tr1qyQDrBG_BaoT-ZWsZrwfkGCx9DMa4oZeNh-YEj1V86bEV99i5dreZkmykWEF_rl0fz1-KtdpDED00OcxC3QbkS9KAcFQEwF8SCuw-aqqllf9/s1600/photo-280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSvYFZnrY-IwZzsjyCE8nsrz1yFlt_Tr1qyQDrBG_BaoT-ZWsZrwfkGCx9DMa4oZeNh-YEj1V86bEV99i5dreZkmykWEF_rl0fz1-KtdpDED00OcxC3QbkS9KAcFQEwF8SCuw-aqqllf9/s200/photo-280.JPG" width="155" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">35 week singleton bump</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqJ9jpm-EaFLRBCTRKvHKZGDDBlUpe9hyrkQO_e1nzZcX9C5DX18DHYHzCnZUQHpgE1nezKhJmvMQhZMVAX3WsmYv5vodVyx4eZJU7yVOp8Z1A91fOO6-wzAKgokOi1Y6Rzj9TxGQ7HSu/s1600/photo-24.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqJ9jpm-EaFLRBCTRKvHKZGDDBlUpe9hyrkQO_e1nzZcX9C5DX18DHYHzCnZUQHpgE1nezKhJmvMQhZMVAX3WsmYv5vodVyx4eZJU7yVOp8Z1A91fOO6-wzAKgokOi1Y6Rzj9TxGQ7HSu/s200/photo-24.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">36 week twin bump</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />We recently did a maternity/family photo shoot with my amazing photographer (and childhood!) friend, <a href="http://www.laurenlawrencephotography.com/">Lauren</a>. She's been doing photo shoots for our family for the last few years. Her work is amazing and we couldn't be happier with the most recent photos. We'll be back in her studio for a newborn shoot soon!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRod-iJZM02DhpYDHljQmPvNtt5379l72bjua0EMVq-3WZRNlfYAMpSdU0aA89d8VAgwxWWRjjgw9X4duUGoyRPAjFORlYosLU4E1LBcMFz9qVus-YIJPLEDQy-KImg4L6L-emhfED7LHj/s1600/MaternityAC-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRod-iJZM02DhpYDHljQmPvNtt5379l72bjua0EMVq-3WZRNlfYAMpSdU0aA89d8VAgwxWWRjjgw9X4duUGoyRPAjFORlYosLU4E1LBcMFz9qVus-YIJPLEDQy-KImg4L6L-emhfED7LHj/s320/MaternityAC-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5bxLXRBID4nlxkmp7f37MKcdPqL08ChNJI89-hQEA3xPtb0pOPxbrz-24sBj4EP76eAeafcrTZenh3EVecP2LVn3Zmx4Mh7eNt9Q8cI7HLMuCZGI06BPZnOrs5aMfmgIguePEWx55nJY/s1600/MaternityAC-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5bxLXRBID4nlxkmp7f37MKcdPqL08ChNJI89-hQEA3xPtb0pOPxbrz-24sBj4EP76eAeafcrTZenh3EVecP2LVn3Zmx4Mh7eNt9Q8cI7HLMuCZGI06BPZnOrs5aMfmgIguePEWx55nJY/s320/MaternityAC-7.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVV8-vayF_FdptRJlkhzoD8LQes2klEFJ-jAMb6n3ezDrhTuCRBMr79Ua-jaaxXjT9o1_x39yczbj5YUnY8UlD6Td5xNyDTsRSfpEBAFXuinMQAtlbFuanvrrtf4IDyrgUYYWD1Mj8VN-K/s1600/MaternityAC-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVV8-vayF_FdptRJlkhzoD8LQes2klEFJ-jAMb6n3ezDrhTuCRBMr79Ua-jaaxXjT9o1_x39yczbj5YUnY8UlD6Td5xNyDTsRSfpEBAFXuinMQAtlbFuanvrrtf4IDyrgUYYWD1Mj8VN-K/s320/MaternityAC-11.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyozCZ_pdln4di3lfAOKk8DsWdbHfHPFa-ciKbFPAlPFawUXNeTlk9jcbfD6hVDqAFQ2ScP9GwhDc7qXfDdHRDJsqtN_cfU4YgrYDE4wfVpDFOn1NVERBuSNcobmQ7FLe1ATPBi3UyhiQ/s1600/MaternityAC-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyozCZ_pdln4di3lfAOKk8DsWdbHfHPFa-ciKbFPAlPFawUXNeTlk9jcbfD6hVDqAFQ2ScP9GwhDc7qXfDdHRDJsqtN_cfU4YgrYDE4wfVpDFOn1NVERBuSNcobmQ7FLe1ATPBi3UyhiQ/s320/MaternityAC-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzDKhrEkbmuhkc1pbt0kKjIa4vzTAlPLcT1ZAGutZHEf5JIqnCOOVPKDJ52VRqWHsVSWs9y5EGp7RCUqHKxHvMW5EUF-srqBdBch4MmqhRTEUa8X5HfOmgu3yszWKJsBSUJHHZH2bhoNl/s1600/MaternityAC-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzDKhrEkbmuhkc1pbt0kKjIa4vzTAlPLcT1ZAGutZHEf5JIqnCOOVPKDJ52VRqWHsVSWs9y5EGp7RCUqHKxHvMW5EUF-srqBdBch4MmqhRTEUa8X5HfOmgu3yszWKJsBSUJHHZH2bhoNl/s320/MaternityAC-16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6OO7CjljeKXvKFhk59M-Ktj8FhvAbIAEiMr-Wrwrjdx7XH3W3LtN_1DqUDyGfVMAnp30yzbFc4nx7ArZmLXwFTZXotQPlltuMzSqiF2R0D_lI-J4SggOIalcF7p6K7OouuNOAurzzUOZ/s1600/MaternityAC-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6OO7CjljeKXvKFhk59M-Ktj8FhvAbIAEiMr-Wrwrjdx7XH3W3LtN_1DqUDyGfVMAnp30yzbFc4nx7ArZmLXwFTZXotQPlltuMzSqiF2R0D_lI-J4SggOIalcF7p6K7OouuNOAurzzUOZ/s320/MaternityAC-17.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5VLwtLP_YzPBm9g3ww27MfUjqjREqP8uAhJr-g2cVlmvu6TNaflSnCYXyFqOof1zmuVGTu1fZYgOgUsQ7OKbVBr1Kzvdpxpr-SwiIE9CVSdRd2zQMSpcHB2sEavFUvM2frV_hoy_xKN3/s1600/MaternityAC-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5VLwtLP_YzPBm9g3ww27MfUjqjREqP8uAhJr-g2cVlmvu6TNaflSnCYXyFqOof1zmuVGTu1fZYgOgUsQ7OKbVBr1Kzvdpxpr-SwiIE9CVSdRd2zQMSpcHB2sEavFUvM2frV_hoy_xKN3/s320/MaternityAC-19.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Y9sXgdSxW5shDus5kIu_p6KRIPGhSAl7xbJsjNKvWDT8oMrHHT-vFBB1GTuZD5QXwzvwbX9cPpX9Cb105sfoC3MoPC9BOM2d8S9P3rI9NcvmSXNBiLoHvVajumSm2CzJ-KTEaBT_L5If/s1600/MaternityAC-21H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Y9sXgdSxW5shDus5kIu_p6KRIPGhSAl7xbJsjNKvWDT8oMrHHT-vFBB1GTuZD5QXwzvwbX9cPpX9Cb105sfoC3MoPC9BOM2d8S9P3rI9NcvmSXNBiLoHvVajumSm2CzJ-KTEaBT_L5If/s320/MaternityAC-21H.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidnzM46F0udjCRrkDgoUgsIymyR-jW0M4b6pMi80Btjf_3SIqn7BFgzsxzQYkIWoDkK-8PnnE3aMCHSs9DnTez2D_RL-lMcz0Ot6RTGUXG2DK9RroEkBgoxQ_V0qatcyrFNY5dBA01mqvd/s1600/MaternityAC-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidnzM46F0udjCRrkDgoUgsIymyR-jW0M4b6pMi80Btjf_3SIqn7BFgzsxzQYkIWoDkK-8PnnE3aMCHSs9DnTez2D_RL-lMcz0Ot6RTGUXG2DK9RroEkBgoxQ_V0qatcyrFNY5dBA01mqvd/s320/MaternityAC-25.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqqru0frNAt9G5k2hKpGDPUs5yd-yaT72fGR_QUqyTS7jVYGn9edEX17XBscSuIH0F9YgT0hyZha04I3OGNlSfyDRxiaU4rle-v5mdo0DcR8aAxMs9XgwfTpKLJDgj-nk6FZCBNEAmAm-/s1600/MaternityAC-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqqru0frNAt9G5k2hKpGDPUs5yd-yaT72fGR_QUqyTS7jVYGn9edEX17XBscSuIH0F9YgT0hyZha04I3OGNlSfyDRxiaU4rle-v5mdo0DcR8aAxMs9XgwfTpKLJDgj-nk6FZCBNEAmAm-/s320/MaternityAC-26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bkrI9cG0QK7LAiEoMLI8a_dy7jninKPy8DtZdbaPXTgbRLYnSfjz4CNdV0biV0eLNQmfIedUfMHUBDS0eE7qXIhWbUmnp4baZEH22ObkfFnLaVAoZ3XACpC3vcMneJlXSLgxf1Dq2PQZ/s1600/MaternityAC-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bkrI9cG0QK7LAiEoMLI8a_dy7jninKPy8DtZdbaPXTgbRLYnSfjz4CNdV0biV0eLNQmfIedUfMHUBDS0eE7qXIhWbUmnp4baZEH22ObkfFnLaVAoZ3XACpC3vcMneJlXSLgxf1Dq2PQZ/s320/MaternityAC-31.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll do my best to get another update in before the little man arrives. I'm hoping that I have a minimum of two more weeks! </div>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-53733842730339200072015-11-24T17:02:00.001-05:002015-11-24T17:02:58.198-05:00Update!Where o where has the time gone. October and nearly all of November are deserving of a blog post!<br />
<br />
The girls have adjusted very well to JK. For the most part, they are loving it. Their teacher and ECE seem fantastic -- very caring, but also extremely organized. The girls seem to know the day's structure well. It is also posted on the teacher's website, so I can always see what's going on. It's amazing to me that they've learned so much already. I expected the focus of JK to be on social and emotional development, which is for sure. It's great to also see that their writing and reading skills are improving quite a bit. They're constantly writing their names and asking me to help them spell different words. While reading books, they like me to point to each word as I say it.<br />
<br />
Teagan's separation anxiety has subsided for the most part. While she is reluctant to go into the kindergarten yard occasionally, she rarely cries and will leave me providing that the ECE is there. I acknowledge that it can be hard, but remind her of the fun that she has at school.<br />
<br />
The girls have made lots of new friends. Quinn and her preschool best friend have remained super close, which has been nice to see. It's been great to see them run around with new friends when we stay in the playground after school. I've driven by the playground during their lunchtime recess a few times and have seen them playing with many different kids. Teagan developed her first crush last week! She came out of school and begged me to wait. After a few moments, she ran over to this boy from their class. He is a head taller than she is, so she stood there look up at him. She was beaming and he was smiling down at her. After a little exchange, she came running back to me and he ran out to the soccer field with his friends. She then insisted that she had to say goodbye to him. She ran into the playground and looked around. When she eventually spotted him on the soccer field, she said that she had to give him a hug. She went running across the field. I did have a moment of worry, wondering if he would push her away or ignore her. When she got to him, he wrapped his arms around her and picked her up in a big bear hug. She came running back over to me with a HUGE smile on her face. It reminded me of that scene towards the end of Love Actually. If you've seen the movie, I'm sure you know the one! She talked about this boy for a few days and even said that she loved him. Her crush seems to have subsided now! 4-year olds move on easily!<br />
<br />
The girls' school is BIG on parent volunteerism, especially at the kindergarten level. I signed up to be a reader. This means that I go in once per week, if I can, and read with the kids individually. They each have a bag of three books of varying difficulties and choose which one they would like to read to me. I have to keep track of what they read, strengths and areas for improvement in a binder. I've really enjoyed it so far. Most of the kids were extremely keen on reading and wanted to read all three books multiple times.<br />
<br />
October also meant a trip to the pumpkin farm! Jenn and I made a last minute decision to go on Thanksgiving Sunday. We had a Thanksgiving dinner planned for Monday, so it worked out well.<br />
<br />
We took a wagon out into the pumpkin patch and the girls loved filling it up with pumpkins. We eventually made them each decide on just one!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoYUmdGmOD4Ssy9NwbPxhjdbRTobMNGTU3Npu_Ob3xCJmlw8T9pvSveM3hfqWDfXKkyTNfhIJjie8wtqpEyj_gg8cMu8gf5x1RZp2zY_p9cyeIS6QdBtBq3Gw91V45znjqH_OF9YVwRB6/s1600/2015-10-11+10.18.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoYUmdGmOD4Ssy9NwbPxhjdbRTobMNGTU3Npu_Ob3xCJmlw8T9pvSveM3hfqWDfXKkyTNfhIJjie8wtqpEyj_gg8cMu8gf5x1RZp2zY_p9cyeIS6QdBtBq3Gw91V45znjqH_OF9YVwRB6/s320/2015-10-11+10.18.05.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNzpekmKHzpzyavMkQn6QKwXZjBU_TW6di9q5t3mONXhOo_mJGAGdFYyTGZHcBwtLYxWUnLsJm0pEo5DramTAv3jQPbNEwf2iDbWSkl7HicxVeVaI86E6H9sHhsPdimkaEUBbtU70B1VJ/s1600/2015-10-11+10.19.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNzpekmKHzpzyavMkQn6QKwXZjBU_TW6di9q5t3mONXhOo_mJGAGdFYyTGZHcBwtLYxWUnLsJm0pEo5DramTAv3jQPbNEwf2iDbWSkl7HicxVeVaI86E6H9sHhsPdimkaEUBbtU70B1VJ/s320/2015-10-11+10.19.13.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXFksg1wRUvgw0bSHQSd7iOOf-g1cldywIKk-15bLdohvwfwIZxFgddx1fR0Lyd6b-xruEWrrIcacr-ta6gaEPLp1ivD-VRAiA3tKCvGWmi6GHVYti4LAdcAnRdz9OsgTdt36LllIdRWs/s1600/2015-10-11+10.20.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXFksg1wRUvgw0bSHQSd7iOOf-g1cldywIKk-15bLdohvwfwIZxFgddx1fR0Lyd6b-xruEWrrIcacr-ta6gaEPLp1ivD-VRAiA3tKCvGWmi6GHVYti4LAdcAnRdz9OsgTdt36LllIdRWs/s320/2015-10-11+10.20.41.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMP8DGcnQSoTdoqMPsxzu1ZxD-lJ6hqvocni3LKJAMgr882RHjnmtOEjK0BoTx5GZgEjSUT6ZmRzjWatAEvzDKzELxPiI4r97ejztwRCAaQ169gdERCSwtzGDSihBFMud_jmVfO306vTdG/s1600/2015-10-11+10.24.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMP8DGcnQSoTdoqMPsxzu1ZxD-lJ6hqvocni3LKJAMgr882RHjnmtOEjK0BoTx5GZgEjSUT6ZmRzjWatAEvzDKzELxPiI4r97ejztwRCAaQ169gdERCSwtzGDSihBFMud_jmVfO306vTdG/s320/2015-10-11+10.24.54.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CyGXayLpG5lnFvavqbwkM-ANtCvEQop5G8VBH42PPfWJfK5eaxRlj-S6QEV1onPbWqLgx7gIOhGrjG10lAVK59VPpQPoR_w52F1ud6xXrflYl3HPEF3MIrgDhGv2RLFxGu50LSICloBB/s1600/2015-10-11+10.59.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CyGXayLpG5lnFvavqbwkM-ANtCvEQop5G8VBH42PPfWJfK5eaxRlj-S6QEV1onPbWqLgx7gIOhGrjG10lAVK59VPpQPoR_w52F1ud6xXrflYl3HPEF3MIrgDhGv2RLFxGu50LSICloBB/s320/2015-10-11+10.59.38.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Monday, we did Thankgiving dinner at my parents place. The girls came home that weekend and proudly showed us their Thanksgiving project from school that week. Jenn didn't make Quinn's list, which was particularly funny to us given how much Quinn adores her! I found it equally funny that she is thankful for "Mommy makes pies" because I've never made a pie! Teagan apparently really enjoys the outdoors, particularly rocks and wood chips and loves sleepovers at Atty and Grandpa's, she explained to me afterwards. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzzranNlfj-ZcAsd3VH48D17d_kA3i1Ph8iK1qswdLsKV9YUnLheiFmPmJuORFHulfee3bMdNF0oU6VA48-ujYTe97LocqvYDEb2iKhVO8HERTtMCasEIcUjMR3syOa-NpHR2muC6f2dw/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzzranNlfj-ZcAsd3VH48D17d_kA3i1Ph8iK1qswdLsKV9YUnLheiFmPmJuORFHulfee3bMdNF0oU6VA48-ujYTe97LocqvYDEb2iKhVO8HERTtMCasEIcUjMR3syOa-NpHR2muC6f2dw/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeEo_3pWb3zUiu_1sUVh2xvObMLQ9iLXiZ1bSKn3ovdfkCAZdYnQlrh6p8BpQKkRIwslxezA8AZUqv2xb_6uiNXy1LxPd6y2qjNx45CBXoMGwkmcVM05dVfAqPa1RFOv7AclGoffxCiAb/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeEo_3pWb3zUiu_1sUVh2xvObMLQ9iLXiZ1bSKn3ovdfkCAZdYnQlrh6p8BpQKkRIwslxezA8AZUqv2xb_6uiNXy1LxPd6y2qjNx45CBXoMGwkmcVM05dVfAqPa1RFOv7AclGoffxCiAb/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jenn and I managed to escape for a night on our own towards the end of October. The break was much needed. We were both feeling tired and a little burnt out. Earlier in the year, we had done a great job of getting babysitters regularly so that we could go out to dinner alone or with friends, do something fun on a weekend afternoon, do ANYTHING kid-free! etc. So anyways, Jenn and I went down to one of our favourite quick getaway areas, had relaxing massages at a fantastic spa and ate some delicious meals. I also slept for almost 10 hours that night! It was so nice to have that time to reconnect and slow down. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
October ended with Halloween and two extremely excited little girls. Teagan counted down the days until she could trick or treat. By Halloween Day, she was asking every half hour if it was time yet. By 5:45, they were dressed and ready to go -- it was still light out. At the first house, we overheard the owner tell the girls the they were the first trick or treaters!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsdwq22bLqm8SEYarXiSGz3cU111dV9Du8XJ1GjQDedo8es55FoTBeUy3RKZrAUW5DwJYuKi63i5R1Sa-D_Qu9AuZ0ULxtnJ56W7WXaRc0IiAC-6tbJBDDsxy4fUwXJo8O5w_HIyRNVaT/s1600/2015-10-31+17.52.57-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsdwq22bLqm8SEYarXiSGz3cU111dV9Du8XJ1GjQDedo8es55FoTBeUy3RKZrAUW5DwJYuKi63i5R1Sa-D_Qu9AuZ0ULxtnJ56W7WXaRc0IiAC-6tbJBDDsxy4fUwXJo8O5w_HIyRNVaT/s320/2015-10-31+17.52.57-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Trick or treating is serious business...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0GPqp73hfT_tGF1kFJV2aYDEeamvYkexvyBfH9huSqNCDSZMDBZfZWL0D0UlghSWpch2_Ota1FVAYVeRMRrANaiMBeVJ_IlYkn_11wQLLelvud7TiMynbPBWTm51T2f3LJwUIDugVv2g/s1600/2015-10-31+18.27.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0GPqp73hfT_tGF1kFJV2aYDEeamvYkexvyBfH9huSqNCDSZMDBZfZWL0D0UlghSWpch2_Ota1FVAYVeRMRrANaiMBeVJ_IlYkn_11wQLLelvud7TiMynbPBWTm51T2f3LJwUIDugVv2g/s320/2015-10-31+18.27.58.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcP9qRjDh1uFtTma4GiGOfyhobKtokYPA9wXLZcI3lih5PpZOjsKbGrY1Avv1jqhaGuVxNGB4nwAelvtxqD4bp9IRZJG1CJHX2d7B7y-CQqSaw478vUY39RrxN9iFnkAaxpaYsKoChO3V/s1600/2015-10-31+18.28.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcP9qRjDh1uFtTma4GiGOfyhobKtokYPA9wXLZcI3lih5PpZOjsKbGrY1Avv1jqhaGuVxNGB4nwAelvtxqD4bp9IRZJG1CJHX2d7B7y-CQqSaw478vUY39RrxN9iFnkAaxpaYsKoChO3V/s320/2015-10-31+18.28.18.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the Friday before Halloween, there was a big kindergarten parade. Parents were invited to line the halls while the kids walked through the school. I was shocked to walk into the school to find the halls packed. Kindergarten parents are very supportive! It was clearly overwhelming for the little 4/5 year olds to walk out and see the crowds! The girls teacher had them lined up nicely and had reminded them to be quiet (hence the finger over the mouth!). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQc6mMqfwqrIsN7rplmvphyphenhyphenktjsHDL7aNs6L6vp-8EcQT4iErkjf4Mj298ReZm85rZ-YlUQN0DgjL7W0umHhSKirZy5mOkVHYhccw70EalWs-kGMLtDM3TvbZZBoh3CJkW2D7iYR-YcxHl/s1600/2015-10-30+09.29.36-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQc6mMqfwqrIsN7rplmvphyphenhyphenktjsHDL7aNs6L6vp-8EcQT4iErkjf4Mj298ReZm85rZ-YlUQN0DgjL7W0umHhSKirZy5mOkVHYhccw70EalWs-kGMLtDM3TvbZZBoh3CJkW2D7iYR-YcxHl/s320/2015-10-30+09.29.36-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPOru7miM5ukJIARYEQDz1S8KCoC_OQio_nzdG2f1m6jJBgWpKjnFlvJThc7AdJgBaeeOfwTLjZlsGeErRAe0zxT11zxLA5WE4gXwDO4P8xtVQ22qudwh86e9-7P4lXfRPEjQkCv3LwpK/s1600/2015-10-30+09.29.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPOru7miM5ukJIARYEQDz1S8KCoC_OQio_nzdG2f1m6jJBgWpKjnFlvJThc7AdJgBaeeOfwTLjZlsGeErRAe0zxT11zxLA5WE4gXwDO4P8xtVQ22qudwh86e9-7P4lXfRPEjQkCv3LwpK/s320/2015-10-30+09.29.11.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the day before Halloween, it was discovered that my pregnant sister-in-law, Kelly's baby was breech. As a result, a c-section was scheduled for the following Monday. They were both disappointed to find out that baby was breech, but after processing it, became excited to meet their little girl. After a very smooth and uneventful c-section, they welcomed their little one into the world on the afternoon of November 2nd! She is absolutely adorable. At just 6 days old, her cousins got to meet her. The girls can be a little bit wild, especially around my brother, but managed to understand the importance of being calm and gentle around Kelly and the baby. They both held her, with assistance, and gave her many kisses. It definitely made me feel more excited for their baby brother's arrival in February!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've been having some challenges at home with fighting. It amazes me how the two of them can be beating each other up one minute and then be best buddies the next. On one particular morning recently, I found the fluctuations completely exhausting. Two minutes before this picture was taken, they were yelling with tears streaming down their faces! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAKV9DHT08NHJLAfBhm7MsPNpmWKCYhhjqZ9frjWYXoXCyKLdpSGCj9G__MSA_9euoc2CzrQr57_pIUaig0ypi1KbwwIxA_hLdwMQurZz5tG8yw_9vR9-EF8bKzhIw5an_UpP6B5xRLvUm/s1600/2015-11-11+07.55.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAKV9DHT08NHJLAfBhm7MsPNpmWKCYhhjqZ9frjWYXoXCyKLdpSGCj9G__MSA_9euoc2CzrQr57_pIUaig0ypi1KbwwIxA_hLdwMQurZz5tG8yw_9vR9-EF8bKzhIw5an_UpP6B5xRLvUm/s320/2015-11-11+07.55.43.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then they walked to school like this!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMiRkgE8fPUGhEaMCQda1mbtokmhVvLw7hrMlQYeybNHFFlnT6lqjy7oOfVb8up789oN5Wm3CQqRPRyJp-fBD7H5QZec_RLaEK_b8LbS5f1eSN1by2io8peuPBtxkBSPx5AiYqZjWaKfvk/s1600/2015-11-11+08.40.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMiRkgE8fPUGhEaMCQda1mbtokmhVvLw7hrMlQYeybNHFFlnT6lqjy7oOfVb8up789oN5Wm3CQqRPRyJp-fBD7H5QZec_RLaEK_b8LbS5f1eSN1by2io8peuPBtxkBSPx5AiYqZjWaKfvk/s320/2015-11-11+08.40.44.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of the funnier moments recently…I hear Quinn tell T to be a horse and look over to see this! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaLpFs1twJW69KMuevjKZxy91jpIfPEZKGtVB_lUsbCrO5KBzHRafipEI1zZqsnAHgr5frNYBstIKtgh-U8cBnmcwygDNX3ds1g7MQ0W4xAGYB1A5Imw3Qvy06_4D7NZSRRqJX10nuGtl/s1600/photo-268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaLpFs1twJW69KMuevjKZxy91jpIfPEZKGtVB_lUsbCrO5KBzHRafipEI1zZqsnAHgr5frNYBstIKtgh-U8cBnmcwygDNX3ds1g7MQ0W4xAGYB1A5Imw3Qvy06_4D7NZSRRqJX10nuGtl/s320/photo-268.JPG" width="260" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I often try to think about what it would be like to be with one person 24/7. As twins, they know nothing else, but it still must be exhausting! Funny enough, when I try to separate them, they resist! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In early November, the girls and I met one of my old friends and her baby at the Royal Winter Fair. I've taken the girls to it for the last few years now. It's always a blast. We watched the Super Dogs perform. The impressive pups ran through various obstacle courses, which included leaping high over bars, running through tunnels and zig-zagging through thin pylons. It was quite entertaining to watch! Each year, the main attraction for the girls has been the petting zoo. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6AbWh3dx4LADMUrQ6_vNd6XwX_QLiruiTdv1L08B9LZzcLVe9KSavch12dlpNxN0W5s5xKxrowZqetZtDZ4wisooaMqbeJOPH2y2yzNL7ApFkfITltM1crcFzghm5TW1Nx2vAg2bLGEc/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6AbWh3dx4LADMUrQ6_vNd6XwX_QLiruiTdv1L08B9LZzcLVe9KSavch12dlpNxN0W5s5xKxrowZqetZtDZ4wisooaMqbeJOPH2y2yzNL7ApFkfITltM1crcFzghm5TW1Nx2vAg2bLGEc/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbabXwq9hfWKiqHbruLqw4uGJ0uFuHPwk9zpGXCFbk7Q_S9vq1taMtyFwMgVKgC9YFmrELMBJLjRPI5rR-bRw8Jk-3XK4qvY_-C5ezsaG8m21PmJFoaHl8Q60rC4Km_Ft2p06gvRr4YWL/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbabXwq9hfWKiqHbruLqw4uGJ0uFuHPwk9zpGXCFbk7Q_S9vq1taMtyFwMgVKgC9YFmrELMBJLjRPI5rR-bRw8Jk-3XK4qvY_-C5ezsaG8m21PmJFoaHl8Q60rC4Km_Ft2p06gvRr4YWL/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUHJCqZr0z6iyIBHy0fWEzH5eUxGU-hfaB-pos5ksVzvk4hhR7FO5ppGmw_yWG-Ji6I2En8EHGimItW99F6lc7rK8U2n5onP9Bk8jKiZVOCTcInMvCjD8xoo0lnTgZaHv81Mpa2yND7WH/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUHJCqZr0z6iyIBHy0fWEzH5eUxGU-hfaB-pos5ksVzvk4hhR7FO5ppGmw_yWG-Ji6I2En8EHGimItW99F6lc7rK8U2n5onP9Bk8jKiZVOCTcInMvCjD8xoo0lnTgZaHv81Mpa2yND7WH/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbFsoDHFSCnzlK_SXufnj_mxC2Pa5zxTu7LzybVLPk6RHSLHl7nJB-tD4_4q2qSc74maH6Px3lN36vDQa5v6zifJCz2dlSTwPJiKp7KhU7Q8pvBRjE_vMrnfEpozqB-jOqrlp3kf0LRFj/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbFsoDHFSCnzlK_SXufnj_mxC2Pa5zxTu7LzybVLPk6RHSLHl7nJB-tD4_4q2qSc74maH6Px3lN36vDQa5v6zifJCz2dlSTwPJiKp7KhU7Q8pvBRjE_vMrnfEpozqB-jOqrlp3kf0LRFj/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The girls watched several older kids riding the mechanical bull and decided that they wanted to try it. While waiting in line, Quinn backed out. Teagan was still determined to give it a try. She was by far the smallest kid in line, but did get onto the bull. I think that it was higher than she thought so she quickly slid off. Sadly, I wasn't able to capture a photo before that happened!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwJ3UT5hkwnNpQcXa4yTizDP4dvHYPd8m6swbT39umIb5QR9JbEjHVL3uYIuYDhyphenhyphenBSwEg_vAL7WFJRS4mOAI5cSdMTNdTpEwG_4rOAtBdnBVL0T7l29mkLHL_PkkZVQmoZdZhPG53rEAO/s1600/photo-270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwJ3UT5hkwnNpQcXa4yTizDP4dvHYPd8m6swbT39umIb5QR9JbEjHVL3uYIuYDhyphenhyphenBSwEg_vAL7WFJRS4mOAI5cSdMTNdTpEwG_4rOAtBdnBVL0T7l29mkLHL_PkkZVQmoZdZhPG53rEAO/s320/photo-270.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hockey is going extremely well for the girls. They are really enjoying it and improving quite a bit. Teagan was quite excited to shoot the puck for the first time a couple weeks ago! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsSWvhE4BMo0m1JmCJF2fqlPaROF4laSSs4fxgnk2-PtA-OSOA-mpRrM5jFf_TWWqXnnLIIhj_FI_W2Dw-HHd3VD08O0RZHGwOxfngfyhOXNhZ3fzssoJQiqPYQC2qehc4lxdmzDiYLYC/s1600/photo-271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsSWvhE4BMo0m1JmCJF2fqlPaROF4laSSs4fxgnk2-PtA-OSOA-mpRrM5jFf_TWWqXnnLIIhj_FI_W2Dw-HHd3VD08O0RZHGwOxfngfyhOXNhZ3fzssoJQiqPYQC2qehc4lxdmzDiYLYC/s320/photo-271.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As with anything that Quinn does, she likes to skate as fast as she can. She's working on stopping! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx8ruX2arHcFsusYgJvlVEp_sR5Wk15it9f7r3S9QCZCWT7mSxoUGBjMnxfgesbBvTiqRbxpqHiJhCGT4y8hw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were lucky enough to experience some unseasonably warm Fall weather (here and there!) in Toronto. This meant more time outside! A few Fridays ago, I got a call from school that Teagan wasn't feeling well. I went to pick her up after lunch and as suspected, Quinn came home too. I questioned the sickness since she was running around with friends collecting worms when I arrived. It was a gorgeous day so we decided to take the pups for a walk. I took photos of all 6 of my children. Note the "sick" one in photo one ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnaYdxkGgSAixTKBbpOOD7-lcYaHBKRptzNKt_c7-g5nilGyoWZN5yIDenX31mKiY2bmziTZStFQ5PIsuBvh_YxOQexfitKB29CnmkHQRtbf1OOm27ADWxYAfq-Of83GRNdWLWUjhwpix/s1600/photo-272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnaYdxkGgSAixTKBbpOOD7-lcYaHBKRptzNKt_c7-g5nilGyoWZN5yIDenX31mKiY2bmziTZStFQ5PIsuBvh_YxOQexfitKB29CnmkHQRtbf1OOm27ADWxYAfq-Of83GRNdWLWUjhwpix/s320/photo-272.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And of course, no update would be complete without talk of the littlest member of our family! See the bottom-middle photo above! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The little man is growing well. So far, I have been fortunate enough to experience an uneventful pregnancy. The third trimester is officially underway (28 weeks now). Overall, I'm feeling pretty good. My only complaints are some sleep disturbances (occasional insomnia) and occasional heartburn. I'm up a few times per night to go to the bathroom and sometimes have a lot of trouble falling back to sleep. If I'm awake for more than 30 minutes or so, I usually just get up and head downstairs. I accept it for what it is but am usually exhausted and slightly cranky the next day. The heartburn stays in check providing I avoid certain spices. I learned it the hard way! I'm starting to actually feel pregnant, despite looking pregnant for quite some time. The second trimester is truly blissful in the sense that I didn't have to slow down. Now, my growing belly forces me to take a step back. It's hard though because I generally move pretty quickly. I've experienced a few sharp, sudden pains that were a definite warning to slow down! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My anxiety during this pregnancy has been much higher than the last one. Surprising, I know. But, as I told my midwife yesterday, in my twin pregnancy, everyone did the worrying for me. I had constant monitoring so there was little room for something to go wrong without it being discovered quickly. As I mentioned, this pregnancy has been uneventful so far, so I feel extremely fortunate for that. I try hard to not worry and have faith in my body and the little baby growing inside me. His movements are incredibly reassuring. He favours my right side but is large enough now (around 14 inches long and roughly 2lbs) that he often stretches across the bottom of my belly too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've tried to keep active. I'm doing a prenatal bootcamp twice per week and yoga once. I would love to up the yoga, but at this point my schedule doesn't permit it. I also walk a lot during the week between the kids and the dog walking. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few weeks ago, we toured the new Toronto Birth Centre. I'm hoping to have the baby there. This does mean a natural labour and delivery with no pain relief. It's something that I feel like I can do and want to do for myself. We have hired a doula to help both Jenn and I during labour and will have our two midwives too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spending time with Rob and Kelly's little girl has made me very excited for the little man's arrival! The girls are excited too, particularly Teagan, who talks to him and kisses my belly constantly. I'll post some proper belly photos soon. I'm embarrassed to say that I've only taken one at 22 weeks! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-7598PTzIS21MVQUESl74yApQ0P6uTcg-TYIA3X9ClthnnzMS_XYlsIbX_TS2KmHhQ2yKf0zMSRRQ01nz9pIsEca33fVctJrIgDedGSLw9lnP46mmSFOIrRxbb5Be956jMUpY652JbO3/s1600/photo-273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-7598PTzIS21MVQUESl74yApQ0P6uTcg-TYIA3X9ClthnnzMS_XYlsIbX_TS2KmHhQ2yKf0zMSRRQ01nz9pIsEca33fVctJrIgDedGSLw9lnP46mmSFOIrRxbb5Be956jMUpY652JbO3/s320/photo-273.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-626561704201352431.post-75644485836609659422015-11-01T15:37:00.000-05:002015-11-01T15:37:15.506-05:00Lying<i>One afternoon last week, we hosted a play date. There were 6 kids aged 4 and under in the house. While all of the kids were playing upstairs, Quinn came down and asked me for crayons. I told her that if the kids wanted to colour, they would have to come downstairs and colour on the blue kids' table. She agreed, but then ran to the back room and a moment later ran by me looking guilty. I stopped her on the stairs and asked what was behind her back. "Nothing," she said. I asked her to show me both hands, so she sat down awkwardly and put her hands out in front. I asked if she was sitting on a crayon. "No, " she answered. I then told her that I was going to pick her up. She quickly shoved the offending item under a closed door. I opened the door and brought out the brown marker. "It wasn't me!" She yelled. "Someone else put it there!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
This is happening multiple times per day in our house. Quinn has taken to lying about big things and extremely small things. It seems to be her default. Even when I catch her in a lie, she will continue to lie to me.<br />
<br />
She understands what it means to tell the truth. I've tried to explain that not telling the truth is more upsetting than whatever she has actually done. I've tried to explain that trust comes from telling the truth, even when it is tough to do. I've bought books about lying/fibbing/telling the truth. We've read them and talked about them afterwards. After speaking to a few people, I've worked on removing the word <i>lie</i> from my vocabulary when speaking with her.<br />
<br />
I've read that lying is normal at this age. It doesn't make it any easier, especially to the extent that she is doing it. She's a smart kid who is always thinking. I do find it slightly concerning that she comes up with such elaborate lies and will continue to lie even after getting caught.<br />
<br />
Currently, I do not get angry with her if she has lied to me. I'm disappointed more than anything and let her know that. I'm reluctant to place negative consequences on lying as I've read that it can makes things worse. I did get quite frustrated with her this morning and slightly raised my voice. She locked herself in the bathroom and touched up her face paint (she was one of the Paw Patrol dogs for Halloween and we were going to a party). I didn't realized that that was what she was doing and asked her to unlock the door. She did and I said simply, "You fixed up your dog face paint." She proceeded to tell me that she hadn't. She clearly thought that I would be angry. I then said, "I'm not angry, Quinn. I can see that you fixed up your face paint." She continued to tell me that she hadn't. I don't get it. I got frustrated and made her sit on the stairs. We chatted a few minutes later and had the same conversation that we've had so many times.<br />
<br />
I'm jumping ahead, but this makes me fearful for the teenaged years. I do hope that this is a phase that we can get through (until the next one!). I absolutely hate not trusting her. I used to always be able to trust that she would tell me the truth.<br />
<br />
Any advice? Words of wisdom? Stories that support my hope that it is a phase?Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03053195426495332803noreply@blogger.com3