Mr. Manning

Jareth has a favorite toy. It is a bright blue elephant made by Bright Starts that makes a crinkle sound when you touch it and rattles when you shake it. It also has teethers for feet. His name is Manning and Jareth absolutely loves him. He has learned how to hold the elephant and chews on his trunk and ears and he smiles so big when I bring it to him. He has also started to "talk" to his new friend and he gets so excited that he shoves his face into it and squeals! It's adorable. Thanks to Erin and Mike who got it for him. I think every baby should have a Manning.

Three Months and Amazed

My little cricket has turned three months old today. I can't believe that at this very time three months ago I was waiting for the doctor to break my water and begin the labor process. I have found motherhood to be the most amazing experience I have ever had. Watching him grow is wonderful. He changes so much with each passing week and each tiny milestone absolutely facinates me. I never knew I would be so giddy about seeing my child discover his feet or hold his paci. I had no idea that my heart would explode with his gummy grins or that I would tear up just because he tangled his fingers in my hair while falling asleep on my shoulder. And its only been three months. He can't sit up on his own, crawl, talk, or much less walk and I'm already amazed by him. What's funny is that this is one of the most natural things there is. The birth and growth of a child is a natural process that occurs worldwide. It's hard to believe that Jareth isn't a phenomenon; I sure treat him like one!
Three months down and a thousand to go!

What I Couldn't Live Without

Someone asked me what items I have found to be essential for baby care. There are several things that have made my life easier when it comes to taking care of Jareth. Some I have used from the very first day and others I have picked up along the way.

1. The Boppy: It not only gives my arms a rest from holding Jareth while I nurse him but it came in handy when he had a viral infection and was spitting up mucus. He was able to sleep in bed with us, elevated on the boppy without fear of us rolling onto him. We also used it for tummy time so that he wouldn't face-plant the floor when he got tired of holding his head up.
2. The Nipple Shield: I desperately wanted to nurse Jareth but the first few days were a little rough. It took a little while for him to learn how to latch properly and before he did I became quite blistered.
3. Recieving Blankets: Jareth loves to be swaddled up and oftentimes he has trouble falling asleep with out it. I think there would have been many sleepless nights without them.
4. Basinette: There is no way I would have let Jareth sleep in his crib away from us for the first three months. My sister let us use her basinette. It comes right up to the bed and I can easily see the baby and reach into it to help him with his pacifier or blanket.
5. Pacifiers: I had said I wouldn't use them but the first day Jareth was home he was inconsolable and I gave in. Sometimes babies just need to suck even when they aren't hungry.
6. Light-up Toys: Great for distraction, toys that play music and light up have become very useful.
7. Chocolate: Okay, this one is for mommy. When Jareth just can't seem to be satisfied mommy eats a piece of chocolate. It makes me feel better at least. ; )