Clemson vs Citadel

This past weekend we traveled to Clemson, South Carolina to watch Josh's Clemson Tigers take on the Citadel Bulldogs.  Josh went to grad school at Clemson and we were excited that being in North Carolina we were close enough to take in a game or two.

That morning we got up bright and early.  Thankfully Mara didn't wake up for her first feeding till our alarm clocks went off at 3 am.  5.5 hours of sleep for her.  Unusual and definitely an answered prayer.  The drive was supposed to take about 5 hours and we wanted to get there with some time to spare before the noon game to get Mara settled with Josh's parents.

Mara was a doll sleeping most of the drive only waking up once to feed (and taking a bottle!!) We got her settled, the gear unloaded (traveling with a baby requires a lot of stuff), and headed down to the game.  On the way down we took a quick pit stop to get me a Clemson shirt because I had absolutely no purple or orange in my wardrobe.  We also stopped at one of Josh's favorite pre-game hangouts, Essos.  Its an old gas station that has since been converted to a grill/bar.

At Essos for lunch

After a beer and some lunch it was game time!  Besides being the last home game of the season and Senior day, Clemson was also honoring the military.  They had tributes and honors presented during almost all the timeouts and between quarters.  The band even invited all active and retired military personnel to join them for a tribute featuring all the services songs at half-time.

The game itself was a blast.  Clemson crushed Citadel 52 to 6.  There were some amazing catches and great defense.  I just love the atmosphere inside a college stadium: the student section, traditional chants, the proud alumni.  It was great!

Waiting to go in

Afterwards Josh took me around the campus showing me some historical and meaningful spots to him.  We even tried to tour his old building but unfortunately all the doors were locked.  Its so nice to hear all the stories from his time there and I was so glad that I was able to share that with him.

Team running in

That night we met back up with his parents and had dinner at a little Persian place.  The food was decent just maybe lacking in the quantity given.  We all crashed early that night (or at least tried to).  Mara wasn't having the hotel room and was awake most of the night.  I must have managed to grab an hour or two at some point because I wasn't dead to the world the next day.

Go Clemson!

Sunday was a long day.  We headed out of town hoping to catch a few of Josh's friends on our way back to Fayetteville.  Although our stops along the way seemed to make the drive longer it was well worth it to reconnect with everyone.  Everyone was so kind and welcoming and loved seeing Mara.

After getting home at 9 we all crashed.  It was a long haul for a short weekend but I'm so glad we did it.  Josh was able to connect with some close friends and catch a football game.  We were also able to have some much needed couple time while Josh's parents watched Mara for the day.  So thankful that they were willing to come join us there!!  Overall it was a great weekend.  I'm already looking forward to the upcoming seasons and hope we can make it back down!

So excited for a little couple time

Mara-2 Months

Mara, at two months I think its hard to classify you as a newborn anymore.  Although I am sad to leave that stage behind us, I'm excited to enter the true baby stage.  I am constantly amazed at how much you change daily.  I have to remind myself to soak in every minute.

Love this little smile

Weight: I think you're probably a little over 12 pounds already (12.5 to be exact.  weighed you this morning).  Last week you were 11.5 and still continue to eat frequently.  I am already getting comments from people about how well fed you are.  Guess Mama's milk is high fat!

Mornings are the best for getting faces out of her

Health: I feel like a broken record here but the gas still plagues you girl.  I think we may have turned a corner this week though.  Mama discovered you aren't processing dairy very well.  Your aunts warned me that this may happen so we are on a mission to cut out all dairy from my diet.  It'll take a few weeks to get out of my system but hopefully once it does you'll feel better.  Besides the gas you are super healthy girl.  We go in for your two month well visit next week so we'll see what the doctor says.

Ready for daddy to be home

Social: You are mama's curious baby.  You love to just look around and are happiest when you can see your surroundings.  You still push out with your hands when you are in the Moby so you can crane your neck back.  Anything to see the world!  You have started to talk to Mommy and Daddy.  You don't coo as much as grunt and make noises.  You also flay your arms and legs to get your point across.

Look at those rolls

Diet: Breast milk!!  Mama has been pumping for our upcoming trip to Clemson though and hopes you will take a bottle for Nana and Papa.  We may have to practice a bit the next few nights.  

Clothes: You are mainly in 0-3 month clothing although you could use some extra length in the onesies.  This is solely because of your cloth diapers though.  For bottoms you are all over the place.  We have 0-3 month and 3 month ones in the drawer.  In fact I think the ones you have on today are 3-6 month.  The bigger sizes are too long but you need the extra space for the diapers.

I wonder what's going on in this little head

Mama's Favorites: I am all about my baby carriers this week.  You have been refusing to nap unless you are on Mama and girl you need your naps.  SO we have been sporting the Moby as usual and have recently broken out the Ergo.  I still think you are a bit small for the Ergo as I don't like how your feet are scrunched in the bottom.  Its also a bit harder to put on alone than the Moby.

Crying: You still only cry when you are hungry and have gas.  Mommy can tell the difference immediately.  You just scream when you want to nurse and don't stop till you are on.  In fact you have started crying a bit even when you are right at the breast.  I think its your way of saying, "Mom you waited too long!"  When its just gas you kind of whine while you cry.  I can tell you're in pain and we get you upright so you can get rid of that burp or gas.  

Sleep: Lately you have regressed in this department. We are back at 3 hour increments with the morning more like 1-2 hours.  I'm not sure if you are going through another growth spurt or its a factor of the gas.  I'm hesitant to try to get you on any kind of schedule but would GREATLY appreciate it if you decided you wanted to sleep longer stretches :) If I can get you down by 9:30ish then I count it a good night, but lately its been more like 11 or 12.  Somehow you still want to be up at 7 am every morning regardless.  Thankfully this is your happiest hour so its hard for mama to be mad about the lack of sleep.  Baby smiles cures everything!

This one make my heart melt

This Week: You and mama had a girl's week as Daddy was out in the field.  You are starting to be more responsive to the world around you and are interested in toys (although you don't reach for them yet).  You were great when we were at friends houses and let them hold you.  You can still be a bit of a mama's girl and that's ok :)

Baby Likes: You love your gym this week.  You have been kicking and swinging at the toys and I'm sure will reach for them soon.  You seem to like your sleep sheep that your great aunts got you too.  Mama sets it to the heartbeat sound and you seem to sleep a bit sounder.  I'm hoping that by starting this routine it now it will make bedtimes easier in the future.

When did my baby girl get this big?

Milestones: You are now smiling in response to Mommy and Daddy.  You know when we are being silly and bless us with one of those adorable smiles you have in there.  You are also talking more and as always love taking in the world around you.  I've started telling you about everything you're looking at too.  We have abandoned tummy time.  You don't really like it and your head support is amazing.  I figure you get enough tummy time when you are on either me or daddy.  I don't think you "should" be rolling anytime soon but you sure get to your side quickly when we lay you down.  You flail those arms and legs like you want to get over.  That right arm is really stopping you up!

I think you may have started teething.  Yes I know its crazy early for this but you seem to have all the signs.  You're fussy, drooling like its your job and shoving your fists into your mouth.  I can see two little white tooth buds in your bottom gum already.  Has anyone else experienced this?  Teething at 2 months?

Best of Times: Seeing Daddy after a long week without him.  His girls are happy to have him back!

Oh my the chubbs

Worst of Times: The night before Daddy came home you had a rough hour or so.  It wasn't long but girl you just screamed.  Mom didn't know what to do.  We walked and sung.  We changed your diaper and tried to nurse.  Finally you let out a little burp and stopped.  Seemed you had a bubble trapped.   You immediately went to bed but mama felt a little defeated.  

Happy 1 Year to Us

What can I say, its been a pretty amazing first year of marriage, Babe.  

We 

went paragliding in Uganda
 rafted the Nile
 found out we were expecting
 traveled to Morocco
 went 4-wheeling in the Sahara
 said good-bye to amazing friends and life in Kenya
 moved to North Carolina
you took command
 I adjusted to a life at home
 relaxed on the beach in Wilmington
 had a daughter :)

Not shabby for year one I'd say!  

Babe, I can't imagine going through this life without you.  You are my best friend and my rock.  Each and everyday I thank God He brought you into my life.  

  Home is where ever I'm with you!

It is really true what they say.

That the love you feel for your husband on your wedding day is the LEAST you will ever feel.

My love for you has only grown exponentially.

Supporting us in all the life changes this past year.

Supporting me during labor.

Becoming a father.

  

I love you, Babe.  And I can't wait to celebrate MANY MORE years with you.

Happy Anniversary!

Going Dairy Free

Recently I went dairy free after discovering Mara wasn't handling dairy in my breast milk.  (Curds in poop: for all those mothers out there who are curious)  Thankfully I have two wonderful sisters who experienced the same with all of their kids.  I immediately reached out to them for tips, reciepes and what to avoid.

Now when you think of dairy you of course think of milk.  Then there's cheese, yogurt, cream cheese, sour cream, butter.  Seems easy enough right?  Wrong.  Milk is in EVERYTHING.  Its there in the form of casein protein, lactose, whey....the list goes on.

I didn't realize exactly how much dairy I eat until I had to cut it out.  It was in my morning cereal and of course the milk I put into it.  It was in my granola bars and bread for my lunchtime sandwich.

Basically I'm sticking to vegetables, fruits and meat.  I have bought some coconut milk, almond milk and vegan butter for cooking but for the most part am not going to heavily explore dairy free substitutes for the staples (cheese, yogurt, etc)

My biggest test may be to come.  Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.  I love preparing the meal and getting together with family to enjoy it.  I'm now tasked with making my favorite holiday staples dairy free.  You'd be surprised how hard this is.  Think about all the little places dairy hides.  Milk and butter in the mashed potatoes.  Butter or heavy cream in the roles.  Lactose in the gravy.  Cream of Mushroom soup in the green bean casserole.  Luckily I've found this great website geared to help you make a dairy free Thanksgiving.  I was able to get a few good recipes and substitute ideas that should help me pull off our favorite dishes without a hitch.

I have been at this for about a week now and although its been hard, I know its going to be worth it.  Especially if it helps Mara.  (huge gas problems could be the dairy)  Right now my plan is a massive purge.  No dairy at all.  Once I get it all out of my system, usually 2-3 weeks, we'll see how she's doing.  If we see a difference I'll try to slowly add things back in.  Starting with milk in products (aka breads, granola, cereal).  From there if she's still doing ok maybe we'll try to add back in yogurt and cheese.

I'm not counting on it but its really just going to be a wait and see process.  We're praying that it helps our little girl's gassy stomach get better.  In the end it will be worth it.  And heck, I may just get a tad more healthy in the process!

Life Lately

I feel like I've been a little mia from the blog as of late.  Life has been in its own way a tad busy.  Josh headed out to the field a week ago leaving Mara and I on our own.  Even though I am with her by myself every day, it was a bit of an adjustment having him gone for a whole week.  You don't realize how much you look forward to that time in the evening when he gets home!!

We were really busy for being on our own though.  I felt incredibly blessed to have the friends we have here in North Carolina.  They invited us over for dinner, a chat on their sofa and came over bearing a whole box of donuts (Thank you Cathy!!) They kept the week moving for me and made the time go quicker.

Army explosion

On our slower days, Mara and I just went into survival mode.  She slept and played and peed.  When she slept I ran around the house like a mad woman straightening up, cleaning, doing laundry, etc.  Its really amazing how much you can get done in 20 minutes (why she thinks she only needs to sleep in 20 minute intervals I do not know).

Sporting her Daddy shirt and army bow

Needless to say we were really excited when Josh got back yesterday.  We headed into base to meet him for a quick lunch.  Even though it was quick, that time is so precious!  Last night was even better once he got home.  Mara has been less fussy at night so she got some much needed Daddy time while I fixed dinner and did the mountain of army laundry.

Night time was even better with Josh there.  Although she slept pretty poorly, having him there (although I don't normally wake him) just makes it better somehow :)

This weekend we are gearing up to head to Clemson to see the Clemson Tigers take on Citadel.  Clemson is Josh's alma mater and we are super excited to be close enough to catch a game. His parents are headed up to watch Mara for us and it'll be great to see them again too.

Next Monday is our anniversary.  I can't believe its been a year since our wedding.  Its crazy how time flies when life is sweet :) I don't know if we'll get to do anything special for it on the day but maybe the next weekend.

Thanksgiving is around the corner and I am getting really excited to cook my first Thanksgiving dinner.  Its going to be a bit interesting as I recently went dairy free for Mara (more on that later).  Josh's parents will be with us this year which will make things extra special.

Well I think that's enough rambling for one post....more coherent

thoughts to come!

A Day in the Life....(With a Newborn)

My daily life has changed a lot since Mara was born.  I used to make huge to do lists and feel so accomplished when I got most of it done.  When Josh first went back to work, I continued to write my list but found myself getting really discouraged.  Now a days my perspective is a little different.  If I can get a few things done then I'm looking good.

Here's a glimpse to our normal "schedule" (that word is a little loose with a newborn):

6-7 Mara wakes up.  We nurse and have a little Mommy and daughter time.  She's usually full of smiles in the morning and I love it!

8:30-9:30 Mara goes down for her morning nap.  This is when I jump in the shower.  I try not to have any other goals for this time because one her morning nap is short and two I just need some me time.

10 Hopefully by now I've eaten something.  Mara usually has some more awake time at this point.

11-12 Mara goes down for her noon nap.  I usually run around the house in a frenzy during this time.  I throw in a load of laundry, do a quick clean up, empty the dishwasher, clean the bathroom, etc.  Whatever really needs my attention.

1-2 Mara wakes up wanting to nurse.  We nurse and she usually falls back asleep again.  I try to do anything else that desperately needs my attention and then I try to just sit.  I blog, I cross stitch, I paint my nails.  Just little things for me.

3-4 Mara usually goes down for one more nap during this time.  By now I've done all I want to do around the house during the day.  I usually let her sleep on me during this time and just soak up her newness.

5-8 This used to be Mara's fussy time but the last few days she has been better.  We nurse non stop during this time.  She's a huge cluster feeder and just wants her Mommy.  I feel bad for Josh when he comes home because she isn't the happiest baby.

8-10 Mara falls asleep at some point during these hours.  I have been trying to go to bed when she does but I also want to spend some time with Josh.  Hopefully in the upcoming months her schedule will normalize a bit more and she'll be sleeping longer stretches.

During the night she sleeps anywhere from 3-5 hours straight.  Right now its more on the 3 to 4 end.  When she wakes we usually change her diaper, nurse and she's back to sleep within about 20 minutes.  She typically sleeps longer initially and the time between gets closer together towards the morning.

Why I Blog

Every blogger has their reason for getting started.  Something that sparked them to start their little part of the internet world.  Now a days blogging can be a full time job for some or a place where they visit only once a month.  Blogging is another aspect of our social media lifestyle and can be a way to share your life with those around you.  

I started blogging about three years ago as a way to keep in touch with my family when I was completing my master's thesis in Kenya.  Honestly I thought it would be a great way to share my adventures with them without having to tell the same story over and over again.  Life has changed a lot from 2010 and so is the reason why I blog.

I blog to have a record of our lives and adventures.  I want to remember each and every moment of this life we've made together.

I blog to share our life with our family and friends.  I know a ton of my family and friends who follow me on my blog so they can keep up with us.  I know it makes them feel like they are a bigger part of our lives.  

I blog to connect with other bloggers.  I love keeping up with my "blog friends".  I can't tell you how much of an encouragement it has been to read about other pregnancies and touch base with other mommies.  

I blog to be able to write.  Growing up writing was something I dreaded.  Now I love it.  There's something relaxing about opening up that fresh new post page and diving in.  

I blog to share our story.  Maybe, just maybe there's someone out there who is reading my little piece of the web and is encouraged by my post.  

I blog because I can't imagine not blogging.  Sure there may be some time in my life where I will choose not to blog but for now, I will continue to because I love doing so.  

Mara-6 Weeks

Mara you are growing so fast.  Mama is so afraid that she is going to miss something of this precious newborn stage.  We've had our rough nights but I wouldn't change a moment spent with you for anything.

Weight: You are probably around 11 lbs. by now the way you eat.  I got on the scale with you two weeks ago and you were ten.  You have been eating non stop so I'm pretty sure you have packed on some more pounds.  You have the cutest double chin and belly.

Health: You still have HUGE issues with gas.  Daddy and I burp you non stop and yet you wake up because of bubbles in your tummy.  It makes me feel so bad.  You have trouble getting it out too.  Your little face scrunches up as you try to push.  We finally got you in to see an ENT and you got your tongue fixed.  The doctor said it was minor but we wanted to do it to make nursing easier for mama.  You did great although mama cried.  I think you were more angry that they wouldn't let you eat till the procedure was done.

This little witch is tired

Social: You have more and more awake times during the day.  You still love to look around and are happiest when we will walk around with you (as long as you can see).  You met your grandma and aunt mary this past week and had some sweet momenst with them.

Diet: You are still only drinking breast milk.  We've tried to give you a bottle and haven't had much success with it.  You have taken it from daddy twice but wouldn't take it from grandma and aunt mary when we went out.  I hope this gets better in the next week!

The first time you took a bottle from Daddy

Clothes: I officially put away all of your newborn clothes.  It was really sad to pack away all those tiny clothes although we are loving putting you in your 0-3 month old clothes.  You already seem to be close to outgrowing them and I hope we can at least get you in everything once.  With starting cloth diapers we have moved up to 3 month pants to fit your big bottom!

Smiles from my "little deer"

Mama's Favorites: I am loving the boppy pillow this week as all we have been doing is nursing.  I don't think my arms could have handled all the nursing without it.  The moby wrap continues to be a lifesaver when you refuse to be put down.  I wore you for a few hours while we made cookies with grandma and aunt mary.  We tried the ergo but you just weren't ready for it.

Crying: We have regressed in this department but only because of the gas.  Poor girl it just hurts your tummy so bad.  We can tell when you are in pain versus when you just want to nurse.  We're praying the gas will pass soon!  (no pun intended) 

Changing our first cloth diaper

Sleep: You are getting better in this department.  Now you are typically going down for bed anywhere between 8:30-9:30pm.  Then you usually sleep 4 to 5 hours.  After nursing again you will sleep for about three hours.  The mornings are rough because the gas will wake you up every hour or so.  During the day naps are a dime a dozen.  You seem to think you will miss something and refuse to go down most days.  But today you have already had one short nap and is down for her second.

1 month 

This Week: You met your grandma and aunt mary.  We went shopping and baked for the unit bake sale. After a busy week I am looking forward to relaxing at home this week. We also started cloth diapering this week.  The diapers finally fit you although they look huge on your little bottom.  I think you're unsure about all the fabric between your legs but mama likes them already.  Your daddy is headed out to the field so it will be just you and me this week so that will be interesting.

Baby Likes: You still love your swing. I keep thinking we need to get you out of it to sleep before you are addicted.  You still love your gym.  The colors and toys make you smile and you have started following them with your eyes.  The rattling owl really gets your attention.  You are a mama's girl these past few weeks.  You want to nurse and be held by your mama.

Not so happy with mama

Milestones: You are still smiling and will give us those cute baby grins more and more.  Your neck support blows our minds.  You fully push off your arms and will kick and kick those little legs.  Now when we lay you down on your back you will roll to your side.  Its just a matter of time when you completely roll over!

Best of Times: Seeing my mom hold her first grandchild.  To say grandma is a little obsessed is an understatement.  Although you just wanted your mama when she was here I know in the future she may rank higher in your mind than me.

Mara and Grandma

 Worst of Times: The gas!!  Poor girl doesn't seem to be getting any better.  

Happy Veterans Day

Veterans Day was always a holiday I didn't really pay attention to (*hangs head in shame*) before I met Josh.  Although I am grateful for everything our veterans have done for our nation, I didn't personally know anyone serving or who had served.

Now I am so much more aware of the sacrifices these brave men and women AND their families make for our nation.  I am so proud of my husband and what he does on a daily basis to support his country and family.

This Veteran's Day we went out to eat (Josh got his free meal) and just relaxed as a family.  Fayetteville is home to so many active duty individuals and veterans that everywhere was packed but it was nice to see how local businesses are supporting the troops.

Happy Veteran's Day (a little late) especially to my favorite military man, my hubby!

Military Ball 2010