(don't) Say Cheese!

When Jay was young (like, 1 month old) he had weird splotches of eczema-like rash all over his trunk and arms. I took him to the doctor, they gave me some steroid cream. I wasn't too crazy about putting it on such a tiny baby, but hey, doctors know best, right?

Riiiight.

Jay also often had tummy trouble. He'd moan and groan through the night, and only slept well if he was laying on someone or on his tummy. (GASP! Tummy sleeping!??!) Jay was also full of it. Mucous, that is.

I did some reading of my own and realized Jay may have a milk allergy. I halfheartedly removed milk and milk products from my diet. Then one day I indulged (ice cream and a latte, tisk tisk!). The next had Jay was soooo cranky and had terrible bowel movements with blood spots. I then realized how serious this may be. So I've cut out all dairy from my diet. All.

People, that hasn't been easy!

Think: No milk, no cheese (GASP!), no butter, no cream, no butter milk, no cream cheese, no chocolate (GASP!), no modified milk ingredients (and they are in everything!), no cream of ____ (fill in the blank)... The list just goes on!

But Jay's skin cleared up within a week of my diet change, his mucous went away, his BMs have been the proper colour and consistency (most the time) and there hasn't been any blood spots. Tough? Yes. But definitely worth it.

Without thinking, one night we opted for Tom to use one of the (about 40ish) bags of pumped milk I had in the freezer to feed the baby. The next day, Jay was super ill to his stomach. A few terribly dirty diapers later we realized what the problem was: The pumped milk was from pre-diet change.

Can you imagine my disappointment!?!

1. We messed with his little guts again and
2. MY PUMPED MILK COULDN'T BE USED FOR JONATHAN!!
   

Thankfully I was able to donate it to a family that was in great need of it. I was super bummed we no longer had a 'just in case' freezer stash, but happy it didn't go to waste. (Liters and liters of pumped milk down the drain would have brought me to tears!)

If all goes well, he may out grow this by 1 or 2 years old. (It is my prayer that he WILL outgrow this!!!) Until then, we'll need to be diligent in label reading and ensuring no one innocently gives him milk and cookies because he has the best chance of avoiding long term allergies if it's completely removed from his diet for the next year or so.

Yeah, like that will be a piece of (dairy-free) cake!

a really big day

Jay had his first 'solid' food today.

Then this evening he refused to lay in his baby tub for bath time, he wanted to sit.

Oh my they grow fast!

Leeeaaaaviiiiiiiiiing in a Santa Fe...

Not sure when we'll be back again.

Oh, babe, just thought I'd let you know...

I'm no Chantal Kreviazuk and no jet plane will be involved (at least not in plan A, for now) but this little family of three is throwing caution to the wind, packing a whack load of stuff into the truck, and hitting the road this fall without a return date.

With a few not so hidden agendas, we have planned stops in Kingston, Cambridge, Kitchener, Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, Winkler, (Portage?!) and Saskatoon. With a few looong stop overs in Winnipeg and Dauphin! We'll definitely be there for harvest (which we're thrilled about!) and maybe even halloween... ? We have no set dates, just a plan to maximize our parental leaves and dream about our family's future. We've been granted this amazing opportunity to take this time so we're keeping our ear to the ground and our hearts aching to hear God's direction for our lives.

Wish us all the best.

And hey, we'll see ya soon.

Home and happy

We had a fantastic time in Detroit.

Considering I was picturing gang violence and burning buildings (why did I have this image of Detroit, I don't know...) the beauty if the city and friendliness of the people were a pleasant surprise!



I never once felt unsafe, even when Baby J and I were off trekking around on our own while daddy was at work. Things went rather smoothly for him, too, resulting in us having a surprisingly large amount of time together as a family during the day. We were sure to notify his work that we'd be up for this again!

Man, Jonathan is cuter than ever. Or maybe I'm just getting to know him more and as a result I'm digging him more and more. Not that I didn't before... Oh, you know what I mean! A girlfriend once told me that she found every stage to be better than the one before with her son. At the time I thought she was trying to sugar-coat the fact that her baby wasn't a baby anymore, but now that I'm a momma I know exactly what she was talking about. There are a number of things that I finally 'get' now that I'm a momma that I thought I got before... Am I the only person who totally knew all about this parenting gig until I actually had a child?




Jay Jay is almost able to sit on his own now. Especially when he's not paying attention. He also grabs at everything. Gone are the days he would sit still on my lap while I ate lunch! Now I have to make sure he doesn't start solids on his own! I'm very excited for him to be able to sit. Yes it will be exciting for him... But selfishly I'm looking forward to doing some photo shoots with a baby that's able to sit (and not crawl yet, lol)!

Jay Jay loves his Jolly Jumper. LOVES it. The day he finally 'got' how to do it was probably the best day of his life. Shrills of joy!! But no matter how much he loves it, I may love it more. People, I was able to make a meal with two hands today. TWO!

Practice, practice, practice...

Just like Plattsburgh was training ground for our road trip to Boston.

Detroit will be practice for something even bigger this fall.



Stay tuned.

Free travel? I'm in!!

Alternatively titled: My husband rocks.

As Tom becomes more of a senior man at work, they've been bugging him to start travelling to clients' sites. He hasn't obliged. He's not keen on being away from us. This past week when asked to take a coming trip (because the usual travel guys are on holidays), he plainly answered "Not without my wife and son."

Well, guess who all's got plane tickets!!??!

five months

I never knew

that a five month old

could have

so

much

character.

a wedding dress

About a year and a half ago, while in Costa Rica, we were involved in a community's effort to wed 3 couples. It was an incredible experience. Naturally, with all the wedding talk leading up the event we were asked to share photos of our wedding. The ladies oohed and awwed over my wedding gown. I found it rather interesting that 'the wedding dress' was so important in other cultures as well.

You see, I love my wedding dress. I love what it represents, who bought it for me, and who I wore it for.

I fondly remember the day we went searching for it. I was living in Winnipeg in an apartment on Stradbrook. My mom came into the city that day for one main purpose: To find the dress her only daughter would be married in. My two bridesmaids kindly joined us on the journey. I was ecstatic.

I quickly found out that there are A LOT of nice dresses out there. We found so many that I liked, it seemed the choice was going to be difficult. Until we found it. The One. I remember stepping out of the change room wearing what probably was the 30th dress of the day, and the room fell silent. I admit, I thought it was gorgeous too, but after seeing the price tag I wasn't planning on getting too attached. My mom got all teary, and I told her no, I wouldn't go for her spending more than what we agreed what was reasonable. The sales lady (witnessing this breath taking moment and a sale) quickly charmed in with a discount. I saw myself in the mirror, my mom's misty eyes, the looks on my bridesmaids' faces and knew. This was The One. Hands down. I loved it.

I still cherish pictures of when we went out and found it that day. Even more exciting was the dress fittings, and finally the day I got to take it home to my parents'. But, as we all know, the best day, the best day of my life, was when I wore it to marry Tom. I loved it.

Last year I traveled back to Costa Rica to visit some close friends. I was excited to learn that a granddaughter of Macha, our 'Costa Rican mother', was set to be married. I rejoiced with them. Then Macha, my beloved Costa Rican mother who I grew to love dearly, asked me one of the hardest questions I've ever had to answer. "Can we please use your dress for the wedding?"

You see, in Costa Rica, it's the family's responsibility to provide the wedding garments, food, decorations...The whole kit and caboodle for the wedding. And, not unlike here, it takes a lot of resources. Most families simply cannot afford to buy a wedding dress, so dresses are rented from families who could afford to purchase one. This family in particular, could not afford to purchase one. Even the cost of renting could be burdening.

"Can we please use your dress for the wedding?"

I must admit, a million excuses of why not ran through my mind. The cost of professional cleaning, the risk of shipping, potential problems at customs, the fact that it's in my parents' basement in another city (meaning I would have to ship it to Montreal first, then down to CR)... But I knew what the right, and only answer was. Because, seriously, it was sitting in my parent's basement, in another city. Surely, my beloved dress, purchased and worn in love, had a higher calling than THAT.

My mom brought it with her the next time she came to visit us in Montreal. And one day soon thereafter I finally mustered up the courage to walk it down to the post office. Not before taking a million pictures first, of course. Tears roll down my face as I boxed it up.

It was my prayer that the next bride (and every bride there after) would feel as beautiful in it as I did. May she be equally as blessed as I on her wedding day. And may my mother know in her heart that the dress she so sacrificially bought for me, not only made me feel like a princess on the best day of my life, but also gave that feeling to a young lady in Central America on her wedding day. I know this because the bride called me this afternoon (via Facetime of all things!) to tell me just that.

Recent happenings

We've been house sitting for the past while. Lovin' the AC and pool (it's been over 30 degrees for the past 2 weeks straight!) and extra room for visitors. My SIL and niece joined us here in Montreal for a week, and what a wonderful week it was! I love doing the tourist thing when friends and family come to town. I'm always blown away by how much Montreal has to offer. And the beauty of the city. Love it. Love visitors.

Jonathan is 4 and a half months old. Wow. He's mastered the art of rolling and starting to use it as a mode of transportation. This new mobileness has taken it's toll on our nighttimes. This too shall pass, right? ;) Looks like sitting may be next up on the milestone continuum!

There are some changes coming on the horizon of our lives. Nothing in stone yet, but Tom has taken the chisels out to put it there! If you're willing, please pray for guidance for us.

Also, it's Tom's birthday tomorrow :)

Babies make the world go'round

I heard some phenomenal news last week: A girlfriend of mine and her husband are expecting!!! I learned this around 10:00pm but couldn't fall asleep until well after 2:00... So many thoughts! So many memories of something we just experienced a few short months ago, yet at the same time forever ago.

Ah pregnancy... The nausea, the excitement, the unknown, the aches, the emotions, the experience of your clothes tightening around your belly. The comments from friends, the soft smiles from strangers. The 'overwhelmingness' of baby STUFF. There are s0 many unknowns (and the more you learn, the more you realize how much you don't know!)... But the one known, for sure, is that God entrusted you with a child. A teeny, tiny babe in your belly. And all you have to do is love, nourish, and protect it.

Some days

Some days, I am superwoman.

I am able to wake with a smile as I hear my little one stirring ready to start the day (even though I'm not quite as ready). I am able to balance the boy's needs with my wants of tangible domestic productivity. I am able to clean the apartment with an eco-friendly product I just whipped up, assist the boy with his naps, catch up with a girlfriend, and have a healthy meal on the table for when my hubby gets home from work. Some days.

Some days, I think I should resign.

I groan at the thought of getting out of bed, exhausted from the long night that just came to a close. I get frustrated when Johnny so desperately needs a nap but he's fighting sleep like there's no tomorrow. The tidiness of the apartment deteriorates as the day progresses. I look at the clock and realize my husband will be home from work in an hour and not only is there nothing to eat, I haven't even showered yet. Plus I missed 3 phone calls from my girlfirend. Some days.

Pea in a Pod

Birth story - choose your own adventure!

I figured I better write this out before I forget how it all went down.

CAUTION - the following contains details you may not want to know. Although this version is Rated E for Everyone, remember it's still a birth story.... However, for those of you comfortable reading about the dilation of 'lady-bits', click here for the Full-Fledged Version it's relatively the same script but has a few more details.


The following is rated E for Everyone...

Our baby's due date was March 8th, 2011, but as detailed here and here, in early February we learned that there wasn't a whole lot of amniotic fluid left for our sweet boy. We were teetering on inducing early due to the dry conditions. When we went in for a scheduled ultrasound on February 28th, again with our hospital bags in the car, we learned that although the amniotic fluid 'guadg' still wasn't yet on empty, the obstetrician on duty didn't understan what our doctor was waiting for... The baby was doing well and full term. It was time to get the party started before that situation changed!

I was in disbelief. Before texting my mom I asked the doctor 3 times for confirmation that we weren't leaving without first having a baby. She laughed and told me over and over again that yes, two were checking in but three will be leaving. Tom got the bags from the car and did the paper work to get me admitted. I called my mother and alerted the rest of the troops with this teaser.

In natural labour, the human body goes through a few changes before things really get rolling. In our case, because I was going to be induced, they first needed to help my body ready itself for the coming event. They have things for that, but this is the short story so the details are spared. We spent the remainder of the day playing cribbage, watching "Bringing Baby Home" a Quebec video for new parents (Tom told the nurse that we were 'cramming', she laughed so hard!) and making a few phone calls. We were told to head to bed early in case the initial steps taken that day induced labour during the night. Someone should have reminded me that this was also the last time in a looooong time I would have the opportunity to sleep for 10 hours straight.

I had so many emotions - excited, a bit nervous, anxious, a bit nervous, excited - I blogged from my hospital bed to help sort them out.

I was wondering how in the world I would get to sleep with so much to think about... But God granted me the sleep I desperately needed, even with the screaming labouring woman in the room next to me who arrived too late to get her planned epidural... And I was ale to sleep???? God is good!

In the morning I took a shower and brushed my teeth. I opted for breakfast but they needed to order it so it would take a few minutes... In the mean time they started me on an induction drip (8:00am) at the lowest possible level (we'll call it 1 unit per hour) which was going to be increased every 20 minutes as needed until things got rolling. They informed me it usually takes about 12 hours, so be in for a loooong day.

Immediately after they started the drip, the mild cramps I had the night before intensified. As a 'favor' the doctor on duty (who was finishing her final rounds before heading home) decided to break my water knowing that her colleague may not show up for a few hours and she didn't want me not progressing all that much until after he arrived and broke it...

Immediately after THAT, the intensified mild cramps started getting ugly... Just around this time the nurse upped my drip to 2 units per hour (8:20am). Things started to really get intense and tears started flowing. I wasn't exactly crying, but water was pretty much pouring out of my face. Breakfast arrived but I was in no mood for eating (and THAT says a lot). It was time to start implementing some of those pain management techniques we learned about... Tom was AMAZING. Strong, confident, and so supportive.

We swayed. We implemented counter pressure. I breathed. We coped. And, when we could, we texted our mothers to let them know how things were progressing.

I asked our nurse when I should thinking about using some of the fun stuff, like the whirl pool, to help ease the pain of labour. You see, I wanted to plan my 12 hour day accordingly. She looked at me and said "Now. If you'd like." It was only 9:30am, and I reminded her we may be at this for 12 hours and I wanted to wait as long as I could before using these tricks to help... She looked at me and said that based on the way I was progressing, this probably was not going to take 12 hours.

So in the jet tub I went. It was GLORIOUS! The warmth, vibrating massage, and loud hum drove out most the contraction pains. I was doing it! I was labouring!!

Unfortunately, the nurse then said to me "If you were also thinking of getting an epidural, now's the time."

Crap.

I hadn't even thought of that yet... But now it's all I could think about. Should I? Shouldn't I?? I told Tom that he was going to need a pretty big carrot (reward) to get me out of the tub...

Then the nurse came back to helpfully inform me "... That after you decide, I need time to call him and he needs time to get here."

Oh dear. Now the pressure was on.

I talked to Tom about it (in between contractions, that is) and although I was still coping really well (with his help) I was nervous about what was to come. There's this 'transition' part of labour that everyone talks about being so horrendous... I didn't want that! I had energy still, but was sure this was going to take a few more hours and I doubted I'd have energy left come the pushing part... So I decided to go for it and she made the call. I got out of the tub and headed back to my room.

Another nurse came in to my room and started giving me this awesome pep-talk about how far I'd made it already and that she thought I could do it! Really?!? I started to consider it... Then my original nurse informed me she had already made the call. Crap. I looked up to see a man standing in the doorway of my room. He had a bandana on his head and his arms were crossed. The slightly annoyed look on his face seemed to indicate that he was NOT going to come back - this is your chance, preggo, or you're on your own. Disappointedly, and under pressure, I said let's do it.

I must admit, sitting PERFECTLY still during excruciating contractions is not my cup of tea.

Then it was done, pain medication started and I was told it would take affect within a few contractions. Everyone left, except the nurse. She stayed to check how I was progressing and discovered I needed to get pushing!!

I kid you not, the epi didn't have time to fully take effect before Jonathan was even born.

The nurse called for the doctor and began scurrying around prepping the room for delivery. It was 10:50am. I was in disbelief. What happened to my 12 hour day I was planning? What if I wasn't exactly ready to become a mom?? Why are these people so convinced a baby was going to be arriving soon??!!?

In hindsight, the timing of the epidural was perfect - it took the edge off the pain of delivery but I still had feeling so I knew where/how to push. My nurse coached me through pushing (which is quite exhausting, really) and things - well, the baby, I guess - were moving along rather quickly. The doctor started to direct me on what to do but all I could think about what taking a little break. What's the darn rush about? It's only quarter after eleven!!

At 11:16am, Jonathan emerged from his mother and into this world.

4 months

Boston and Beyond

Last Wednesday after Tom came home from work, we packed up the car and headed out of town. He scored an extra day off for putting in some overtime a few weeks back and Friday (the 24th) was a holiday here in Quebec. So, yay for an extra long weekend!

First stop: Burlington, Vermont.

Burlington is only a short (2.5 hour) drive from Montreal and heading out in the evening meant we didn't have to drive through rush hour traffic in the morning or wait in line at the border with all the other Quebecers taking advantaged of the dollar at par and the long weekend. The evening went as planned, and we settled in to our first hotel room of the trip.

Thankfully, little Johnny is super cool and the change in sleep location didn't change his nightly wakings (read: still woke at 3:30am and 5:30am, sigh). I must say, having a king sized bed was awesome for co-sleeping! J's favorite place to sleep is nestled in beside me, which I try not to do too often. But for the sake of others in the hotel and to ease the transitions of traveling (yet again) I let the little guy stay after the 3:30am feed. I just love that kid.

Next Stop: Boston, Massachusetts

In the morning we had breakfast in bed, packed up the car and headed in to Boston (another 3ish hours of driving). We had heard from some of our favoritest friends in the world that Boston was a must see. And it was!

What a gorgeous city - super green - and it held some shops that were right up my alley.
The Diaper Lab was our first stop. What a find! The ladies there were super helpful and I scored big time on some slightly used cloth dipes that aren't available in Canada. I felt like a kid in a candy shop - I could hardly contain myself!! Tom got into it too... Showing me all sorts of finds around the store. He even exclaimed "This has got to be cutest diaper in the store!" (I love him so much ;)

When he was able to finally peel me away from there we were off to a children's consignemnt shop. Consignment shops for baby stuff is definitely one of my latest crazes. I'm telling you, these places are the best. Good condition, high quality products at a fraction of the price. We found a ring sling (something I was really hoping to come across!) for $15. I just love it. So does J. And so does Tom.

A baby wearing Tommy has got to be the sexiest thing ever.

Next up, Mexican for dinner and then checking into our downtown hotel... The Omni Parker House.

{Sidenote: Have you heard of hotwire? It's awesome. Great hotels for great prices. How else would we end up staying at a four start hotel for less than the price of a Super8? I must say, I also kind of dig the mystery aspect of it... You don't know which hotel you're getting until after you pay. Neat gig.}

We toured the downtown area during the evening and saw the harbour, the TD Garden (where the Boston Bruins play), Boston Common, the USS Constitution, and the beautiful downtown.

In the morning we took a walk to find a breakfast restaurant, saw some more of the city (including the Cheers bar!), then headed out of town to our next location: A major outlet mall.

We shopped for a few hours and after a late lunch, we took off to our furthest destination...

Next up: Cape Cod, Massachusetts!

After checking into our hotel, the Cape Codder Resort (another hotwire steal!) we headed off to Spanky's Clam Shack for some fresh lobster seaside! The place was crazy busy, and the lobster was fantastic.

I've never been to the north eastern seaboard before, and I must say, it was beautiful. The salty sea air, the ocean, the boats, the tourists... It was neat to see the blinking of the boats and flashing of the lighthouses across the dark harbour. Tres cool.

In the morning, Tom and I enjoyed a lovely breakfast via room service while Johnny surprised us by sleeping in.

It was L.O.V.E.L.Y! (Steal a date whenever you can!)

We toured the town and harbour some more then headed back north westerly, eventually making it to the state of New Hampshire, the home of Tom's cousin Allison.





She, and her family, are fantastic! I can't believe it's taken us nearly 4 years of living in Montreal to get our butts down there to see them (it's about a 3 hours' drive). We had a lovely evening with them and in the morning Allison made us a huge Scatliff breakfast spread (with fried tomatoes to boot!). Then we were off again, hitting up some consignment shops in Burlington before we, sadly, headed back over the border to home...

Neither Tom nor I wanted the trip to end (although both of us admittedly were ready to be home again ;).

road trip, in numbers

15 hundred kilometers

9 shopping centers

8 more cloth diapers

7 dining out experiences

6 historic landmarks

5 new relatives I now call friends

4 nights on the road

3 of the united states

2 breakfasts in bed via room service

1 fantastic family vacation to the eastern seaboard!

Pics and details to come!!!

First (official) Father's Day

Although last father's day we already had an inkling... This father's day was the first official one for Tom.

{Side note: Hard to believe this giggling, goofy 14 pound boy grew from two single cells over the past 12 month. God is amazing!}

Thank you Tom for being the incredible man you are.
I couldn't ask for a better husband and Jonathan couldn't possibly find a better daddy.

WE LOVE YOU!!

Dear ACS,

Dear Air Canada Stike,


I asked nicely, and you complied.

Thank you.






.

Dear Air Canada Strike

Dear Air Canada Strike,

Thank you for adding a little drama to our trip. Possibly not making it home for father's day is just the excitement I was looking for.

Now please exit promptly with a fair outcome for all.

I hope to not see you Saturday,
Candice (and Baby J)

Breast feeding

Breast feeding,

... In my mind, was the (only) ideal for us.

... Was researched and read about.

... Was the topic of numerous prenatal classes I attended. I wanted to be ready.

... For me, was the greatest source of apprehension surrounding childbirth and becoming a mother.

Breast feeding,

...Was disastrous at the beginning.

... And then got worse.

... Was the source of a lot of tears, a lot of challenges, a lot of frustration, and sadly, a lot of pain. For weeks.

Breast feeding,

... Was still my desire.

... Was something I never gave up on.

... Was something my husband fully supported me in.

... Was something we sought (a lot!) of help for.

... Was something we threw a lot of resources at.

... Was the topic of many of my prayers.

... Improved.

Breast feeding,

... Got easier.

... Is going well.

... Is bonding time with my baby, is total nourishment for his body, is comforting to my little guy, is perfectly designed, is amazing, and is so worth all of the challenges we went through.

We are now over the half way mark to 6 month of exclusive breast feeding!! I can now say with confidence that WE WILL MAKE IT. And that feels soooo good.

thrifty homemaking

A wise woman once told me that when she had small children at home, her husband's responsibility was to bring home the bacon and her responsibility was to stay home with the kids and ensure that the family didn't spend more than he made.

I think that's fantastic team work.

I was also warned on a blog once that cloth diapering may lead to crunchiness in other aspects of homemaking. And let me tell you, it does. In addition to cloth diapering, I also use reusable wipes (cheap face-clothes) with a homemade wipe solution. Both are super easy, environmentally friendly, and definitely cost effective.

Since I've been spending a lot more hours in the home lately, I've been thinking a lot more about the environmental (and, let's not kid ourselves, the economical) impact our everyday homemaking purchases have. These thoughts, coupled with my addition to being frugal when possible, have led to me brewing up all sorts of non-edible homemade goodies in the kitchen.

For example, I love my Swiffer Wet Jet, but when I was mopping the floor the other day, I cringed as I threw out yet another disposable (and costly) mop pad. I thought to meself: I wash diapers for crying out load! Certainly there's some way I can create a washable mop pad for this thing!

And so it started:

The quest for homemade cleaning products and supplies.


I've since made my own washing machine detergent, dishwasher detergent, and a tub scrub. Yay! I've also earmarked recipes for homemade Swiffer wet jet cleaner and an all purpose cleaning spray.

The joy? Most this stuff is made from the same basic (and super cheap!!) ingredients.

An added bonus? I find myself cleaning a lot more (and excited to do so).


Who would have thought!?!

3 Months

In 3 short months, you've made me a mom.






In 3 short months, you've smiled, cried, cooed, and giggled.





In 3 short months...






you've absolutely stolen my heart.

Leaps and bounds on the developmental landscape

It's been a big week for our little man. Lots of new baby tricks:

• He reached out and (intentionally!) grabbed something. Ever since, he's been having batting practice with anything remotely dangly and in reach.

• After much staring and contemplating, he's realized his feet are his.

• So now he's began kicking said dangly objects. So cute to see him line himself... then KICK!... then (as the object swings from impact) he squirms and wiggles in delight!! Between batting and kicking, he shows no mercy on his play mat.
  

• The little man is starting to use gravity and his heavy noggin to his advantage to turn from tummy to back. The little trickster!
  

It's been amazing to see all these little baby steps in such a short period of time. Seriously, he was knocking them down one a day!

The world is becoming a much more exciting place for him... Unfortunately (for mommy), that means he's finding sleeping to be a bit boring. I kissed my long (well, 6 hours of) uninterrupted sleep goodbye last Thursday with the start of a growth spurt. Maybe we should head back to Manitoba for some more slumber?!?

I think so!!

Jonathan and I will be in Winnipeg from June 5th to the 11th, and Dauphin from the 11th to 18th. Although we will both miss daddy like CRAZY, we're looking forward to the family seeing Jonathan again. And we will be sure to be back home for Daddy's Day ;)

Stateside

We celebrated Baby J receiving his first passport by heading to New York state this past weekend.

I just love shopping in the states, especially when sales are on, our dollar is above par, and the difference in gas prices nearly pays for the trip itself. The day trip went really well; Baby J is an excellent traveler... Which is fantastic because not only was this trip a fun outing, but also a practice run for a longer road trip we're planning to make later this spring.

Yay for being internationally mobile again!

OCDing

Obsessive Cloth Diapering, that is!!


I explained in this post how I was excited to try cloth, and I'm happy to report that I really am enjoying it! I'm not die-hard though, we do use disposables for overnight (the absorbancy is unbeatable!) and while visiting family (I can't bring myself to ask to put *that* in someone else' washing machine!), but during the day at home or out on short trips we opt for cloth, for longer-haul outings we go with the gDipaer system with biodegradable/disposible liners.

There are pros and cons to each type (gDiapers vs Flips! vs pocket diapers vs all-in-ones vs pre-folds, etc) and the cloth diapering world is unbelievably huge! So far my favorites are definitely the gDiapers with disposable inserts for outings and the Flip! system with microfiber inserts while at home.

Has is been a pain at all? Surprisingly, not really! At the beginning we struggled with leaks, but as my baby's bottom grew into them a bit better (and we learned how to put them on properly ;) it hasn't been an issue. The extra laundry to wash the diapers is barely noticed considering how much laundry babies create anyway, and I've even been so crunchy as to hang the diapers and liners to dry in the sunshine (not only save on drying cost but also to bust out stubborn stains).

I'm proud to report that I haven't paid full price for any of it either. Most everything has been pre-owned, some it is pre-used, but all of it steeply discounted. The problem? It's quite addicting!! I love hunting for bargains, bidding, bartering... This is where the 'OCDing' really comes in. I've come so many new styles and patterns I'd just love to try...

Yay for making diapering fun, cute, and cost-effective!

"Are you ever going to blog again?"

I suppose it was a pretty fair question, seeing as I've only posted once this month and twice last month... But YES, absolutely! (There's blog fodder everyday!) Just have patience, we're finding our new normal...

Best Mother's Day gift EVER!

And it came early... On April 22nd, to be exact. During the last night at my mom's house Jonathan slept through the night!!!!!!!!!!!

Although I loved it (even if I was shocked when I woke, looked at the clock and realized it had been over 5 hours since we went to sleep!) I didn't want to get too excited. It could have been a fluke. Or the excitement of the shower that day... But when he repeated the feat the following night (at Tom's parents'), and continued to do so the following night (back at our place in Montreal), I started to get excited!! Its now been a 10 day stretch... Involving 4 different beds, 2 time zones, and no real set schedule during the day. He's only woken one night and that was due to gas.

I realize this may not last, but I'm basking in it right now!!

Wordless Wednesday

Oh, so close!

In other news..

• Tom has been nominated and elected to the Leadership Board of our church. He gets a key and everything. Now we're somebodies! Or, at least, he is ;)
  
• I'm published again. The March issue of the quarterly Food and Nutrition Bulletin came out yesterday with some fine literature on pages 54-59. In the end, I'm pleased with how the topics of controversy were addressed and partially included. Yay for progress!
  
• We are jet-set in less than 2 weeks! I'm doubting we will be able to make it out to see everyone we'd like to (due to eating patterns, lack of sleep for mommy, and car-sharing car-seat constraints), but everyone is more than welcome to come see us while we are at either of the grandparents'.
• Speaking of grandparents, Tom's parents were in this past weekend and mine are set to arrive this weekend. Help from others who love our baby is LoVeLy!
  

4 weeks

A lot has happened this past month.
Some day I'll find 5 minutes and tell you all about it.
But right now I'm going to relish in the tiny little babe nestled up against me nursing.

Thank you for understanding.

Week One: A little (more) about Baby J

Born: March 1st, 2011, at 11:16am (birth story to come)

Full name: Jonathan Thomas

Also goes by: John, Johnny, J.T., and (his mama's favorite) Baby J

Weight at birth: 7.5 pounds

Length at birth: 50cm

Gestational age: Exactly 39 weeks

Temperament: Amazingly content for a newborn! Very patient with mom and dad.

Favorite pastimes: Sleeping, nursing, sleeping, nursing...

Thoroughly enjoys: When daddy talks or sings to him. He's captivated by Tom's voice!

Biggest pet-peeve: Being cold, and all activities that result in being cold (diaper changes, being removed from the bath, etc.)

First big outing: To Rockaberry Pie restaurant for lunch on March 5th. All it took was help from mommy, daddy, Baba, and Grandpa! Everyone was quite excited about the event, except Baby J, who slept right through it.

First photo shoot: At one week old.

How did he do?

Jonathan Thomas

For those of you not in contact with us over Facebook, here's a picture of our new little guy.

Birth story.

This is the full fledged version. If you aren't comfortable reading about lady-bit dialation, click here for the less elaborate story.

Our baby's due date was March 8th, 2011, but as detailed here and here, in early February we learned that there wasn't a whole lot of amniotic fluid left for our sweet boy. We were teetering on inducing early due to the dry conditions. When we went in for a scheduled ultrasound on Monday February 28th, again with our hospital bags in the car, we learned that although the amniotic fluid 'gauge' still wasn't yet on empty, the obstetrician on duty didn't understan what our doctor was waiting for... The baby was doing well and was full term. It was time to get the party started before that situation changes!

I was in disbelief. Before texting my mom I asked the doctor 3 times for confirmation that we weren't leaving without first having a baby. She laughed and told me over and over again that yes, two were checking in but three will be checking out. Tom got the bags from the car and did the paper work to get me admitted. I called my mother and alerted the rest of the troops with this teaser.

They gave me cervidil to help rippen my cervix before inducing labor (which we decided to wait until the next morning to do). We spent the remainder of the day playing cribbage, watching "Bringing Baby Home" a Quebec video for new parents (Tom told the nurse that we were 'cramming', she laughed so hard!) and making a few phone calls while the ripening procedure took place. We were told to head to bed early in case the cervidil triggered natural labor during the night. {Someone should have also reminded me that this was the last time in a looooong time that I would have the opportunity to sleep for 10 hours straight!}

I had so many emotions - excited, a bit nervous, anxious, a bit nervous, excited - I blogged from my hospital bed to help sort them out.

I was wondering how in the world I would get to sleep with so much to think about... But God granted me the sleep I desperately needed, even with the screaming labouring woman in the room next to me that arrived too late to get her planned epidural... And I was ale to sleep???? God is good!

In the morning they took the cervidil out and discovered I dilated to 2 cm over night - pretty good for having only mild cramps if you ask me! I took a shower and brushed my teeth. I opted for breakfast but they needed to order it so it would take a few minutes... In the mean time they started me on an induction drip (8:00am) at the lowest possible level (we'll call it 1 unit per hour) which was going to be increased every 20 minutes as needed until things got rolling. They informed me it usually takes about 12 hours, so be in for a loooong day.

Immediately after they started the drip, the mild cramps I had the night before intensified. As a 'favor' the doctor on duty (who was finishing her final rounds before heading home) decided to break my water knowing that her colleague may not show up for a few hours and she didn't want me to not progress much until after he arrived and broke it...

Immediately after THAT, the intensified mild cramps started getting ugly... Just around this time the nurse upped my drip to 2 units per hour (8:20am). Things started to really get intense and tears started flowing. I wasn't exactly crying, but water was pretty much pouring out of my face. Breakfast arrived but I was in no mood for eating (and THAT says a lot). It was time to start implementing some of those pain management techniques we learned about... Tom was AMAZING. Strong, confident, and so supportive.

We swayed. We implemented counter pressure. I breathed. We coped. And when we could, we texted our mothers to let them know how things were progressing.

My plan had always been to labour as long as possible without meds, but I knew that this particular hospital had a high epidural rate and that natural labours following inductions are even less common. Either way, I was all for walking, moaning, breathing, and counter pressure (WOW counter pressure worked wonders for me!) for as long as I could. My body started to take action to make way - voiding all that wasn't needed.

I asked our nurse when I should thinking about using some of the fun stuff, like the whirl pool, to help ease the pain of labour. I wanted to plan my 12 hour day accordingly and not use up the fun stuff too soon.. She looked at me and said "Now. If you'd like." It was only 9:30ish! I reminded her we may be at this for 12 hours and I wanted to wait as long as I could before using these tricks... She looked at me and said that based on the way I was progressing, this probably was not going to take 12 hours. I was 5.5 cms (3.5 progress in just over an hour!)

So in the jet tub I went. It was GLORIOUS! The warm, vibrating massaging, and loud hum drove out most the contraction pains. I was doing it! I was labouring!!

Unfortunately, the nurse then said to me "If you were also thinking of getting an epidural, now's the time."

Crap.

I hadn't even thought of that yet... But now it's all I could think about! Should I? Shouldn't I?? I told Tom that he was going to need a pretty big carrot (reward) to get me out of that tub...

Then the nurse came back to helpfully inform me "Remember, after you decide I need time to call him and he needs time to get here."

Oh dear.

Now the pressure was on. Wait a minute, it's only 10:00 AM! What happened to our 12 hour day? Why is she so sure this was going to happen sooner than later?

I talked to Tom about it (in between contractions, that is. There was NO talking during contractions, just deep breathing!) and although I was still coping really well I was nervous about what was to come. There's this 'transition' part of labour that everyone talks about being so horrendous... I didn't want that! I still had energy, but was sure this was going to take a few more hours and I doubted I'd have energy left come the pushing part... So I decided to go for it and she made the call. I got out of the tub and headed back to my room. By this point I had advanced to 7cms.

Another nurse came in to my room and started giving me this really awesome pep-talk about how far I'd made it already and that she thought I could do it med free! Really?!? I started to consider it... Then my original nurse informed me she had already made the call. Crap. I looked up to see a man standing in the doorway of my room. He had a bandana on his head and his arms were crossed. The slightly annoyed look on his face seemed to indicate that he was NOT going to come back - this is your chance, preggo, or you're on your own. Disappointedly, and under pressure, I said let's do it.

I must admit, sitting PERFECTLY still during excruciating contractions is not my cup of tea.

Then it was done, pain medication started and I was told it would take affect within a few contractions. Everyone left. Except the nurse. She checked me again - I was at a 9.5!

I kid you not. I seriously sat through getting a needle in the back during what would have been transition.

I kid you not, the epi didn't have time to fully take effect before Jonathan was even born.

The nurse asked for me to give a 'little push' to see how ready the baby and I were - she nearly freaked when I pushed, "Do NOT push again until told to do so, I need to go get the doctor!"

It was 10:50am. She called for the doctor... He had visited me earlier (you know, like an hour and a half earlier) and saw I was in early labour still so he thought he still had lots of time... The nurse was now scurrying around prepping the room for delivery. I was in disbelief. What happened to my 12 hour day I was planning? What if I wasn't exactly ready to become a mom yet?? Why are these people SO convinced a baby was going to be arriving soon??!!?

In hindsight, the timing of the epidural was perfect - it took the edge off the pain of delivery but I still had feeling so I knew where/how to push. My nurse coached me through pushing (which is quite exhausting, really) and Jonathan was descending quickly. The doctor started to direct me on what to do, but all I could think about what taking a little break! What's the darn rush about?! It's only quarter after eleven!!

At 11:16am, Jonathan emerged from me and into this world.

Homeward Bound

Earlier this evening we packed up Bay J and headed for home! It's sooo nice to be home. What a whirlwind!!

Also, my parents are here! Its fantastic (for us) to have a few extra pairs of hands on deck for a few days, but what I'm even more excited about is them being able to see their first grandchild at only 27 hours old -- not too bad for him arriving by 'surprise' and them living a few thousand kms away!!

I'll try to get a picture on here soon, but thought I'd share the update even without one :)

Welcome Jonathan!

Baby Jonathan Thomas Scatliff came flying into this world at 11:16 this morning!!

Praise God for our healthy baby boy and quick labor & delivery. And we thank all of you for your prayers and support.

We'll update as we can.

:)

Dear baby

Sweetheart, tonight is our last night together as one. I cherish these last few hours with you inside me, but look forward to meeting you face-to-face.

Be strong and get some rest, my son, for tomorrow is going to be a very big day for us.

I love you.

It's time

Update

On Friday we went to the hospital for our second scheduled non stress test (NST), with our hospital bags packed; we were told that if anything abnormal were to show up on the fetal strip, I'd be induced. However, according to the monitors, our little man is still doing well (praise God!)!! Interestingly though, our doctor moved our next test from Wednesday to this coming Monday. We are to return to the hospital first thing Monday morning for another NST and to check the amniotic fluid level. She told us that if it is less than 5, I'll be induced, so bring be prepared with all of our stuff again. If it's higher than 5, it may be enough to make it until spontaneous delivery occurs (although we'll probably be checking everything again on Wednesday) but I must be vigilant in monitoring fetal movement everyday.

Although it fills me with such joy to hear that our baby boy is still doing well, I must say it is very roller-coaster-ish emotionally looking to detect 'fetal distress' and hearing that it's a possibility to be 'induced today', reminded to be vigilant on paying attention to fetal movements, and taking our hospital bags in and out of the car...

I know that pretty much all women at this stage of pregnancy start to get a little anxious as to when their baby will arrive, but this has been a bit stressful! I can't help but feel that we're waiting for something to go wrong... But I sure don't want to start introducing interventions (such as an induction) needlessly...

I've been trying to stay occupied with readings and craft projects, going for walks with Tom, blogging more, and resting when I can (not easy to do when you're restless!).

Can you help a girl out?!? What did you do to stay sane during the last few weeks of a pregnancy?

Valentine's

I'll admit it, I'm usually not the romantic one in our relationship. But I think I may have scored a few points two Fridays ago when I surprised Tom with a gussied up wife, a candle lit dinner of homemade sushi (go me!), and my version of this sweet treat for dessert. I failed to remember to take a picture, so I'll use the one off the other blog to show you.



I used chocolate covered blueberries for garnish instead, and inside that box made of 3 wonderful types of chocolates laid a chocolate covered strawberry, cut in the shape of a heart. I followed with a sappy speech of 'no matter what comes, my heart is yours...'


I often wonder how a baby will change our relationship. I have no doubt it will, but I take solace in knowing that we are often at our best when we are working together on something. For two people who aren't the best 'team players', for some reason we rock at working together!

I thank God for the time He has given us to build our relationship before the arrival of offspring. We've had many amazing experiences and times together that I know will be an asset to draw upon come rough times in the future. Lord thank you for the past 4 years with Tom! May we never loose sight of each other and the love that bound us together during the coming challenges of parenthood!

A little preview of what's to come!

12 for 12

So, they tell me I'll miss being pregnant. They've been right so far, so I doubt they're off on this one.

They tell me to write down some memories so I won't forget. So here's 12, because the ticker says 12 today.

1. I was nauseous. I had morning sickness for 15 weeks straight. I don't know if I'll ever forget that. I got sick to my stomach every time I got the slightest bit hungry. On more than one occasion Tom had to find me something to eat in the middle of the night so I could ward off nausea long enough to get back to sleep. I would also get nauseous when exposed to humidity. Needed to shower with the bathroom door wide open, fans on, and hot-water turned down low... And I couldn't stand the smell of Tom's head for most of those 15 weeks. I don't know what it was, but it was horrible. The mix of Ecuadorian heat, his head, and the shampoo we had... BLACH!! Tom was such a good sport about it. He tried different shampoos and kept the top of his head away from my nose for a few months. God bless him.
   
2. While pregnant I've flown out to a remote Ecuadorian jungle-village, to Columbia, to Montreal, to Colorado, to Winnipeg, to Vancouver, back to Winnipeg, then back to Montreal, to Costa Rica, back to Montreal, then to Manitoba again, then back to Montreal. Then I was past the 'no-fly' time line for our insurance company. I've been grounded. Literally. And it's sure going to suck when the scientists discover flying isn't good for fetuses.
   
3. I've had gastric reflux for the past... oh... eternity. I can't remember the last time I bent over to pick something up without remnants of my last meal needing to be swallowed for a second time. Yup, gross!
4. Our little peanut dances around in the womb whenever he hears music, especially when it's live. He bounces and squirms right after it starts. So cute. A musician in the making?
   
5. He's facing my right. Pretty much always has. That side of my abdomen has been tenderized by baby feet over the past few months.
6. He often gets squirmy when he hears Tom talk. At Christmas his reaction was incredible to the sound of Tom talking to his dad!
   
7. Tom hums lullabies on my belly before bed. Most often the baby settles down to listen intently and squirms when the song is done. But there have been occasions when he's wound up and kicked daddy in the face.
   
8. I haven't had a lot of swelling. My cheeks are larger but that's, um, not swelling...
   
9. I've gained 36 pounds (and counting!) but haven't gotten any stretch marks (yet)
   
10. I get Braxton Hicks contractions whenever I walk outside into the cold, bend down for a period of time (cleaning up, shaving my legs, etc), when I stand up after laying down, and when someone I'm not close to touches my tummy.
11. I have been incredibly blessed from those near and far in preparing for this baby. I can't even list all of the generous things people have done for us! Our church's beautiful Jack & Jill shower, all you gals commiserating with me when I grip on the blog, Tom's cousin from Victoria sending a huge box of (really nice!) maternity clothes and a second box full of baby boy clothes for us, my mom coming out twice to help with the preparations... It's all been so amazing! The 'community raising the child' is already in full swing!
    
12. The emotions during these last few weeks. Wow. What a roller coaster! Anxiety, excitement, anticipation, worry, wonder, joy, concern, frustration, strength... But above all, LOVE, over someone we have never met!
    

'round these parts

Things have been exciting.

My mom was here for the weekend (Fri-Mon) and we had a blast. Dozens and dozens of homemade perogies, pots and pots of soups, plus 3 casseroles later... My freezer is *stocked* with homemade meals!!

We also put the finishing touches on the baby's room. I must say, I Love It!!!!


Sadly, I had to let her go home on Monday. But she'll be back when the babe is born.


Tuesday (yesterday) we had a doctor's appointment. We learned two weeks ago that I have low amniotic fluid levels. 'Low' as in my amniotic fluid index (AFI) was a 7.4 (the normal range is between 8-18). Anything under 6 is cause for hitting the ejection button. I was told to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and we'd measure again at yesterday's appointment. So I hydrated best I could, and yesterday we measured again: I came in at 6.2 with 'best case' scenario being 7.0. The tech sent us back to the doctor, the doctor sent us to the hospital for a non stress test (NST), which pretty much means slapping some monitors around my belly and see how the baby is doing.

Before leaving the clinic I asked what the procedures are based on results of the NST. My doc told us that if the baby was doing well, we'd go home and carry on as normal. If the baby was showing any signs of distress, I'd be induced. Immediately.



Oh boy, here we go again!



We put both sets of parents on standby, picked up our hospital bags (I'm sure glad I have those packed now!), and headed to the hospital. We were ready. But, our baby was not. According to the monitors, our Little Peanut was doing just fine. He doesn't seem to care too much that his swimming pool is dry.

We go in for another NST this Friday afternoon, with the same dichotomous outcomes. Then again next Wednesday...

From resting to nesting

The bed rest only lasted a few days... Thankfully. It's really hard on the body to not move about.

So yes, I'm back to being up and around. I've been spending my days prepping for the arrival of our babe: Some days I have lots of energy coupled with a relentless urge to clean (under the bed, the back of the walk-in closet, arrange the tupperware drawer...) other days I sit and eat bowl-full after bowl-full of whatever I've found in the fridge and wonder how I'm ever going to get the energy to put all my dishes into the dishwasher. Ain't pregnancy strange?

Overall, I'm very thankful for the events of the past weeks. If nothing else they've really put things into perspective for me. This baby can arrive at any time now, and it's high time to slow down for that. It's helped me grow a backbone and put my foot down about work. I'm not done-done, but rather more like on 'standby' if a crisis should arise when they are writing the final report (due at the end of the month) and at that point I'll step in and help (if there's no baby yet), but thankfully they have been very respectful of my situation and Tom and I's wishes regarding my work hours. So, for all intents and purposes I am done. So much so that we applied to start maternity leave from the Qc government and I WAS APPROVED!! Praise God. The only province in Canada that lets self-employed parents access parental leave just like everyone else. (However, the calculations are based off annual income, and it pretty much goes without saying that I didn't make a whole lot last year, but the way it calculates out we get a bit more than the $0 we were anticipating, and I am ssooooo thankful for that!) Another reminder that 'somebody' is watching over us, paving the way that leads to things much better than we ever anticipated (or even planned).

That said, I do get carried away some days wishing labour would start (my mom's coming in this weekend, wouldn't it be cool for her to arrive to a newborn?!?!) and need to constantly remind myself that the Lord has perfect timing in everything. So, this morning I've gained a new focus, taken from Psalm 118:24:

For this is the day the Lord has made, (I will) rejoice and be glad in it.

Yes, it's time to bask in this time we have been given! Time for us as a couple, time for taking care of myself, time for resting, time for preparing... And I am very thankful for this time.

Eviction notice

Dear Baby,

Just so you know, our hospital only lets babies go one week past their due date before intervening. That means, as of today, you have one month to exit the premises on your own terms. If not, you will be removed by force.

Eagerly and anxiously awaiting your arrival (!!!),

Mommy and Daddy

Under 30 to celebrate under 30!

1. My baby was transverse for nearly the entire pregnancy. Butt to the left, head on the right.
2. He flipped (down in front!) at 34 weeks. I was getting a little worried he wasn't going to, but one Friday night when we were walking to the store *THUMP* everything felt different...
   
3. Although he's head down, he still faces the right. He's going to be mighty proud of himself as to how many youth and young adults he's creeped out by trying to extend his foot through my abdominal wall!
   
4. After last week's jolt, we've gotten a bit more serious about preparing for the babe. We even have a bit of a hospital bag taking form... Although there's a number of things we need to purchase for it yet. And to find an actual bag for the stuff. What's wrong with me?
5. I couldn't sleep last night because I felt so unprepared. I shopped online for a few things... I can't decide if it's a good or bad thing that I did some mastercard damage at 2:30am.
   
6. The car seat arrived (YAY!) and I absolutely love it. It goes with the awesome used stroller system we bought but wanted an unused car seat.
   
7. The system also goes with the (e-bayed!) bassinet I got for my birthday. We went with the Orbit Baby system. Super awesome!! I want to take it for a walk (more than just around and around the house!!) but Tom won't let me. He thinks it will creep out the neighbors. Is a pregnant woman taking an empty stroller for a walk that creepy? Okay, so maybe I should wait then...
   
8. Tom set up the crib last night. That was pretty surreal... A crib is where a baby sleeps, you know. Why is it in our house??
9. A random lady (met through a conversation on Kijiji) gifted me 6 tiny gDiapers. How cool is that?!?!? She packed them in a gift bag and everything.
   
10. My mom is booked to come visit not this weekend but next. She wants to be here and see me ubber pregnant. She also wants to make a few meals for the freezer while here. How cool is THAT??!?!!
    
11. Yesterday the landlord, who was shouting so his comments could be heard over the snow blower he was pushing, told me "WOW, you sure are gaining weight!" I playfully responded "nooo..." to which he replied, "Well, you're fat!"
12. I don't think I will be paying the rent next month.
    
13. I think the baby loves music, especially if people are signing along to it. He kicks and squirms around...
    
14. Tom thinks the baby hates when people sign along to music. He kicks and squirms around...
15. I had such high hopes for all the projects I'd get done during the month of February. So far I've been banned to sitting on my tush for the most of it.
    
16. It's not like the baby will mind that the tupperware cupboard isn't organized, but for some reason I just need it to be!
17. Work isn't over with yet. Sigh. There seems to be a continual 'couple more hours left' and I have a feeling they won't truly end until the end of Feb when the project's due. It's probably a good thing to keep me occupied while on my tush. And it helps ease the 2:30am damage on the MC ;)
18. I've been feeling a lot better over the past few days, and have even been let out of the house a few times. Good thing too, because..
    
19. They're calling for a shower tonight ;) and I'm quite excited!!