Surviving Sickies

We've been really blessed that Calvin has been such a healthy boy. Up until a couple months ago, he only had sniffles and teething symptoms. In May (the same week as my car accident, go figure) he got an awful stomach flu that lasted for a solid week. It was the first time we had ever seen him that sick, and it was super scary. We did end up taking him to the ER just to make sure it wasn't anything more than a virus. After a week he was himself again, but it was a rough week!

A couple weeks ago, he got another stomach virus which lasted 3-4 days and wasn't nearly as bad as the first one. The poop issues were the worst part, and his poor little bum was pretty sore. He had some more symptoms today which was not fun, but he already seems better and is sound asleep. I'm hoping it was just that nasty virus leaving his system-hopefully for good!

Here are my tips for surviving the sickies with a toddler!

-Put your game face on. Just face it that you're not going anywhere. Cancel plans, and put on your sweats.
-Toddlers really cannot tell you when they are going to throw up, so I prefer to leave Calvin in his diaper and just surround him with towels and cover the couch with sheets.
-If it's a really bad virus, camp out in the living room. We don't have a bathroom upstairs, so if we all sleep downstairs, we can throw him in the tub to clean up...even if it's 2am.
-Even if you don't cloth diaper or have no desire to, I strongly suggest buying one with some inserts just for times like these. It's easier to tell if they are having wet diapers (the tell tale sign that they are not dehydrated) and they are a life saver for a sore, raw bum! Poor Calvin's bum was so sore that he was crying really hard at diaper changes, and the cloth diapers made him so much more comfortable.
-For a raw, red, sore bum from what we call "hurty poopies" (WOW I am such a Mom) I used A&D ointment and a cornstarch baby powder. It did the trick!
-Clorox wipes are my best friend during times like this. They work wonders for cleaning up puke and sanitize at the same time!
-There's NOTHING you can give your child for a virus except lots of love, fluids, and rest. So keep the lights low, turn on cartoons, and pray. ;)
-If you are a nursing Mama, KEEP NURSING! Even if your little one is throwing up, nursing is comforting and a great way to make sure they are staying hydrated during an illness. The doctors and nurses at the hospital when Calvin was sick were so encouraging and told me that I was saving him from being sicker than he already was.
-Your child isn't going to starve. Even if you're inwardly-or outwardly- freaking out that your kid hasn't eaten in days, just remember this: As long as your baby or toddler is having wet diapers, they are fine. Their appetite will come back in time. Remember how horrible it feels the few days after you have the flu and even the sight of food makes you want to puke?? They feel the same way!
-Follow the BRAT diet- bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Calvin loves chicken soup, so we did that when his appetite came back too.
-Keep in  mind that this virus or illness is building an immunity in your child for future illnesses! Everything happens for a reason, even if it's making you insane.
-Clean, clean, clean! Kill those nasty germs and pray they never come back ;)

Calvin is such a healthy boy, and I know that these bumps in the road are all a part of parenting...I am glad I've learned these tips and I know it's not the last time I'll use them!

Summer & Almost 2!

A little disclaimer--my blog is under construction--but I could not bear to go any longer without at least posting a blog about our growing boy.

Well, our boy is almost TWO years old! He's officially 21 months, and I absolutely cannot believe that almost two years has passed since his birth.

Calvin is a running, talking, laughing, learning, silly little guy. He says SO many words, phrases, and literally learns something new each day. Calvin has always been the type of child that you only have to show him something one time, and he just "gets it". Everyone who meets him or interacts with him says this! This is good...and bad...because he repeats and will try to do pretty much whatever we do! It amazes me how established his personality is and how it feels like we have always known him. Here are some blurbs about our guy and what he's up to:

-Well, he's still a picky eater! He doesn't like veggies, so I am reading "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfield for some inspiration! He goes in stages where he will eat everything, and then refuse everything. We've sort of learned to just go with it, and we've realized that perhaps he's like a little bird who snacks on things and stocks up for later. ;) I always offer him food at every meal, and I try to the best of my ability to incorporate healthy options. If he throws it on the floor, well, then I clean it up with half a smile! He asks for his fork and spoon, and uses both very well. He is getting better about being neat during dinner time as well. He's a lot like his Mom and Dad who eat tons of our favorite foods and not so much of our least favorite foods. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree! (Pun intended)
-He LOVES TV. Which is both great for doing a load of laundry and horrible in that it causes children to become vegetables. (not the good kind) So..we try to limit it to a couple shows in the morning while we're getting ready, and then one favorite show at night during snacktime. Other than that, I try to have the TV off. (We have made an exception for the Olympics!) Some of his favorites are Little Bear, Blue's Clues, and Dora.
-Calvin could play with his "guys" (Jimmy & Logan) day and night. He LOVES playing...cars, trains, babydoll..you name it and he's there! He loves to play! I love it that he can interact with kids of all ages and is very social!
-Although he is social, he is quite the Mama's boy. He is pretty clingy lately, and I am sure it is a phase all toddlers go through. All this learning and growing is hard work!
-I'm not a huge fan of the heat, but we have been enjoying summer. Nightly walks are our favorite, and he LOVES pointing out everything he sees and talking about it! It amazes us that he recognizes everything and can verbalize how he is feeling.
-Calvin knows feelings and emotions. He tells me "I'm scared" when he is scared! Although it's so cute, it's also scary to know that my son knows what is feels like to be afraid. Can I wrap him in bubble wrap and never let him leave the house? No? ok...
-He sleeps like a rock...with us. Calvin has grown to be a good sleeper, which is a huge relief because I truly thought I would never see 8 hours of sleep again for the rest of my life. He sleeps in our bed, and I'm fine with it. You know why? Because 8 hours of sleep and sleeping in on Saturdays is TOTALLY worth it...thankyouverymuch. Also, that cute, sweaty toddler is just too darn well adjusted and healthy for me to give a darn about it.

Calvin really, truly, makes us laugh, shake our heads with wonder, and thank God every day that he's in our lives! Life has been crazy with hectic work schedules all around, family stresses and demands, our house literally falling apart all at once (I'm being dramatic), and pet issues...did I mention bills, laundry, yardwork, groceries, and trying to shower? God is always good, and for that, we cannot complain! We are healthy, happy, and I've somehow found myself getting ready to start a graduate program for a Masters of Education.

Another update will hopefully appear in less than 3 months. Until then, God bless from the Rossi's.

Toddler Love

Calvin is 18 months old! I have not blogged in so long it seems. Our life has been a little more hectic than usual, and this is just something that has not fit into our schedule. There have been so many things lately that I have said to myself "Oh...I really need to write a blog about this!" so if I happen to have some free time soon, get ready for blog overload!

In the meantime, here is what our toddler is up to. I have to say, having an 18 month old is very tiring but SO FUN. He is learning so much, talking so much more, and has turned into his own little person. I adore this age and stage. He LOVES being outside, playing with the "guys", and spending time with us. Calvin also has a special affection to the TV which I had hoped to avoid. Well, life happens. The fact is, if I want to do a load of laundry (or *gasp* actually shower uninterrupted) Nick Jr has become my new best friend. Hey, everything in moderation right? ;)

The best part of this age is that there are so many fun activities we can do. We love crafts, reading books in silly voices, singing songs, going to the park, and we hope to have a zoo trip soon. Calvin also loves playing. Just PLAYING. He always wants to play with the guys, play with his toys, play outside, play at the babysitters...I swear the boy never stops! I love it though that he has so much fun. He is also just doing so much on his own. He amazes us every day! He picked me a flower for the first time, and my heart just melted.

He's also talking so much more! He says so many words but some of my current favorites are:
Shoes (it sounds like "chews". so. cute.)
Pablo (his duck, from the Backyardigans)
Owl (his favorite stuffed animal)
Bobo (his monkey, which he named)
Potty, Pee Pee, and Butt. (Hmmm...maybe potty training is in my near future?)
He says so many more, and I love actually talking with our boy. Elio has been so wonderful, and it's great to see him be able to do guy stuff with Calvin.
                                                           We love our toddler!

Green(er)

I posted a while back about trying to be more eco-friendly. Well, I believe it's a process that can sometimes take a while so I wanted to write an update. We recycle now! I know, I know...please don't judge me for how long we weren't recycling We save so much waste it's unbelievable. I just bought a tall white garbage can that is specifically for recyclables. It's super easy, and the bins in my town are free. We have two of them that we have no problem filling completely up. I plan on teaching Calvin about it. He already knows how to throw things away and loves helping. I have been researching cloth diapers lately as well. It's been something I've thought about for a long time. I went to the Mothering By Nature Center in Valpo (on Indiana Ave, near downtown). They have a large selection there and the owner is very knowledgeable. My good friend Lisa is also giving me some tips. I work full time which is the main reason I've not tried it yet, but since Calvin doesn't need changed quite as often I am thinking of giving it a try! I'll keep you posted...
My next step in going green is doing away with plastic bags. I have saved and reused them around the house for years, but it's amazing how many get thrown away! I bought some reusable bags from my local grocery store, and I also bought some from Target. I prefer Target's (only .99) bags. They have a solid piece at the bottom to keep the bags steady. What I normally would need 4 or 5 plastic bags for I used 2. They were also much easier to carry!
I am also going to plant an herb garden sometime soon which I am super excited about. I've been lobbying to Elio that we should get a couple chickens for fresh eggs, but he's not quite convinced yet. Maybe it's because he knows I just want to play with fuzzy little chicks and that he will be the one taking care of them? Haha...he's right. ;)

I smell Spring!

Although we have not had a typical Indiana winter, our family has had some major cabin fever. It was SO nice to play at the park with the boys after church today! God is so good to us, and today I was just so aware and grateful for all He has given us. Calvin absolutely loved playing outside, and he thinks he's big like the other boys! It worries me because he wants to do everything they do, including play basketball and ride bikes! We had a great time, followed by good food and a long nap. What a perfect Sunday! Overall, it's been a great weekend. I took the time to download some new books for myself on my Kindle, and our family has had the TV off most of the weekend minus a date night movie last night for Mom and Dad. I had a really stressful week at work last week, so this family weekend was much needed. Here are some pictures from our afternoon:


First time down the slide!

He wanted to walk up the slide too...like a big boy!

Playing basketball!

I love this boy!

He LOVED playing basketball with Brandon and Daddy!

He just loved running around outside!

Boys will be boys! Playing with a stick.

" I wanna get on the bike"

Riding with Daddy!



Try, Try Again.

I have been asked questions by friends and acquaintances regarding breastfeeding on multiple occasions, and I must tell you that I love it! It's definitely a passion of mine, and I feel totally comfortable sharing information. While pregnant, I read a lot and the past 16 months I have read even more articles, research, books, and talked to other successful nursing Mothers for more information and advice. Let me just put it to you this way...I'm the girl in high school who liked research papers. I may have complained about them to fit in, but I liked them. I have blogged before about finding the right balance between research and common sense instinctual parenting. I can truly sit here today and tell you that I feel confident in my parenting, specifically with breastfeeding. Of course, I still have questions, sometimes daily! I am NOT perfect, and I am NOT always right. But I can tell you that there are some facts that I am sure of, because I have done the leg work. With that being said, here is some information, resources, websites, and my own advice for those who have tried and failed, those who are curious, or those who just want inside my brain for a while. (That's a scary thought...haha) Most specifically, this was inspired by a friend who has a few kiddos and breastfeeding did not work out as she had hoped. She asked for advice, and this blog was inspired by her. We all know the saying "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again". That's a great mantra for parenting and breastfeeding! Just keep going. Just keep trying. There's always a solution. This blog post will include lots of links. I highly recommend you take the time to read them! They will go along and support all I have to say, and provide you with excellent factual information as well as much needed support.


If you feel like a "breastfeeding failure" take the time to read this: ARTICLE


Before I begin, let me make something perfectly clear. If you formula fed your children, that is your choice to do so, and I by no means ever want to sound judgemental or offensive. It is a highly personal journey, and I respect all Mothers. Period. If you want to know exactly how I feel on the subject of navigating the territory of bottle feeding vs breastfeeding read: THIS.


Let's start with the facts. Read: THIS article on the amazing, wonderful facts and benefits of breast milk. Get inspired and excited! Breast milk has absolutely everything your child needs to not only survive, but THRIVE for the first year of life. They do not need any supplemental foods for the first year, only the "good stuff". The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first year of life, and beyond that if child and Mother mutually desire. Introducing solids is not recommended until six months of age. Formula cannot, and will not ever duplicate what God has made. Contrary to what many nurses and doctors will tell you, your newborn does NOT need to supplement. Here's the basic rule of thumb to repeat to yourself over, and over, and over again whenever you think that your newborn is not getting enough milk:
If they are eating a lot, pooping a lot, and peeing a lot: THEY ARE FINE. Even after birth in the hospital, regardless of what the crabby 70 year old nurses tell you, your child does NOT need formula. They have everything they need to survive and only need a tiny bit of your milk, which begins as colostrum. Their tummies are literally the size of a marble. There is a reason why newborns spit up constantly when immediately given a 4 ounce bottle! Their tummies simply cannot handle it. An absolute must read for any Mother who intends to breastfeed is:

I highly recommend reading this book, specifically for how to breastfeed immediately after birth. This will walk you through the importance of skin to skin contact immediately after birth, proper latch on, and it will reassure you that you, as Mommy have everything you need to sustain your child. Your milk will not "come in" for a couple days. That's fine! Your baby is fine. Just keep nursing. The colostrum provides all they need, and trust me...when your milk comes in, you'll know it! This book will guide you through the first few weeks, and then some. Just buy it. You'll need it time and time again. Also, read: THIS blog on the normal behaviors of a breastfeeding newborn. Actually, don't just read it. Print it out and tape it somewhere. You'll need it at 4am when you're frustrated. ;-) Also, in the hospital, make your wants known and remember, you are BOTH learning how to do this for the first time! It is a process, and will not happen right away. Don't give up. Calvin and I had a hard time figuring out how to get him to latch on, so a wonderful nurse helped me pump and put some colostrum in a syringe for him. By the next day, we got it! Nothing worth doing is easy, my friends.

I nursed Calvin about every two hours for the majority of his infancy. We didn't adhere to a "schedule", that's just how it worked for us. Most newborns do need to eat every couple of hours, and as most Moms know...they will wake you up and let you know! At night, just sleep. Sleep when baby sleeps, and feed when baby's up! Pump to avoid engorgement, and freeze or refrigerate the milk. Read THIS information on proper storage of breast milk. The reason why your baby wants to nurse so much is normal, and it's simple: they're hungry and they are fulfilling their instinctual desire to suckle. (Not to mention all the hormones that are released intended to relax, soothe, boost supply, and nurture your child!) The more you nurse, the more you will produce! Don't worry about low supply unless your child is losing weight. Unless you have a medical issue, if you nurse your baby often, and they are gaining weight, pooping and peeing well...you are on the road to success. Your baby doesn't need a bottle. I understand it's painful at first, TRUST ME. Just keep going. Bleeding, cracked, and painful nipples are normal for the first couple weeks. Just power through it. Nipple shields also help immensely to reduce pain, or if your baby will not latch on. Pure lanolin is a God-send. Use it liberally before and after nursing. Also, apply cool compress to ease discomfort. Use warm compress to help with painful engorgement. The solution for almost EVERY breastfeeding hurdle is: Nurse More, Nurse Often, and Just Keep Going. There IS a light at the end of the tunnel, the pain will go away. I promise! I also HIGHLY recommend meeting with a lactation consultant. Every hospital has one, and you can call them night and day for advice or questions. Do not let a little problem turn into a bigger one. Sleep deprivation makes everything worse, and you need to rely on the experts to help you navigate the tough times. Your OB and pediatrician are NOT lactation experts. For breastfeeding questions, you should rely on a lactation consultant. If it is a medical concern or issue, they will refer you to your doctor. Again, nothing worth doing comes easy, and several months from now, nipple pain will be the last thing on your mind. There's nothing wrong with pumping a bottle and letting Dad take a turn, either! Just make sure you nurse extra or pump to keep up your supply when baby has a bottle. My rule was always, if I'm physically here, I nurse him.

What If:

~You have to go to school, or work. It is Federal law that employers and schools provide nursing Mothers with a private space to pump that is not a restroom. I also recommend buying a high quality electric breast pump. Medela and Avent are the two best brands. Yes, the best ones are expensive. Think about it this way: What you will spend one time on a breast pump is what some people spend  for one month's worth (or less) of formula. You can also find them on Ebay, or collect coupons for Babies R Us or Target. I saved giftcards and coupons and got a great deal on mine. Also, pay extra for the warranty and buy a car adapter. I cannot even tell you how many times I have pumped in my car!

~ You're self conscious. Simple...buy a nursing cover. I use my cover all the time, usually for when I pump in the car. They are super cute and affordable. Go to Uddercovers.com for some great ones, or you can also find them at most baby product stores. Also, you don't have to explain what you're doing to anyone. If you're at someone's home, just ask for a private space to nurse or use your cover.

~You face criticism. Be confident, respectful, and polite. You'd be surprised at how many people act critical because they are truly ignorant and just lack information. Also, you don't have to explain anything if you choose. It's your body and it's your child.

~I'm so busy and on the go. Umm..have you met me? I work full time, and not at a bank, people...I drive all over the state, I have to testify at court hearings, and I also take care of my three nephews plus my own child. There's so much I could write on this, but I'll keep it simple. You will figure out what works best for you. I've found that nursing is easier for my lifestyle. I don't have to mix bottles, heat bottles, or worry about running out of formula. When I'm at work, I pump 2-3 times (it's slowing down now) and save the milk accordingly for the next day. I am also so grateful for the money I have saved my family. I've nursed or pumped for Calvin wherever we go and I'm still modest and private.

~I want to eat and drink whatever I want. I drink and eat pretty much whatever I want. Enough said. I limit caffeine to one cup of coffee per day, and of course you cannot consume alchohol in excess while nursing. When it comes to presriptions or over the counter meds, just look it up or ask your doctor if its safe while nursing.

Ok. That was a lot of information, but honestly I could write so much more! Now I'm going to talk about worst case scenario...for some reason, somehow, it's not working for you. You've tried what you feel is everything. You've come close to giving up, but you don't want to. You can pump, and feed your baby breastmilk in a bottle! I know Mothers who have done this, and are quite proud of it! You can also milkshare. You would be so surprised to see all the women willing to donate their milk to Mothers who are struggling. It is simply as easy as connecting with organizations online or on Facebook. Read Michelle's: blog about her journey. It is inspiring, and amazing.  Formula is an option, of course. You can combination feed, which is both formula and breastmilk. ANY breastmilk is good for your child. If you've decided to stop nursing altogether, that's ok too. Just be proud of what you HAVE done!

Although there are justified and valid reasons for not being able to breastfeed, I promise you that the average woman CAN do it. YOU can do it, you can power through the rough spots, and you can succeed! If it wasn't worth it, would I still be doing it at 16 months while working full time? It's an amazing experience and totally worth it. Dare I say it, but it's easy now! After you and your child learn how to do it, it becomes second nature. Did I mention we sleep well most nights and all I have to do is roll over and feed him? Calvin has never been seriously ill, thank GOD, and he is so happy with our life. I could type all day about why you should do it, and how you should do it, but it is up to you to determine what works best for you. My email address is amandaelio@comcast.net. I'd be happy to help or assist anyone who has questions, concerns, fears, doubts, or additional information.

I will leave you with some of the absolute best websites to bookmark on your computer:

www.kellymom.com [Reference this site for literally every question, concern, or fact. Managed by a lactation consultant, this site is excellent and accurate]

www.askdrsears.com

www.bestforbabes.org

www.breastfeeding-magazine.com

Watch, Wait, Listen.

Patience is not a virtue of mine, and I will be the first one to admit that. I am a "get it done right now, and fast" kind of person...very typical type A personality. Not only do I want it done right now, I want it done perfectly. WELL. This is not realistic, and I have gotten much better with letting some things go. Trust goes along with letting go, and it's something I honestly struggle with. As some of you are aware, the past several months I have heavily considered leaving my job. Actually, since Calvin was born I have wanted to do something that required less of my time away from home, not to mention less stressful. I had a plan, and I'll spare you the details but it had what I thought was a good "end date" attached to it. Well, we make plans and God laughs, right?


I've been praying, and praying, and praying for the right thing to do. I've applied to other positions elsewhere and I've been faithfully working my little "plan" to make it possible for me to quit entirely if I needed to. (It's not that I do not want or need to work. It's a lot more complicated than than. Insert long story about my 14 year old nephew slash brother living with me here) I've also researched graduate programs, and ways to turn my hobbies and passions into a career. Well, I've received a series of confirming signs that the answer is right in front of me:


God said Wait. He didn't say Yes, He didn't say No. Wait.


I let go of applying elsewhere for now. I let go of obsessively stocking up on laundry detergent in case I quit.


So now, I wait. I watch. I listen.


Easier said than done. So if you pray, I will accept yours wholeheartedly. In the meantime, I'm going to continue to work hard, love hard, and make it work!