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Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Fluffy Mail!!!
Just wanted to share that I got my flats from Granola Babies in the mail today!!! I have been fretting the whole week that I wouldn't get them in time for the flats challenge and was working out a back up (using receiving blankets was my next go to). But Canada Post came through so my prep in get under way....well almost....
Well I should get finished getting ready for work (oh my 5 minutes till I have to go whoops). Good luck to everyone that is taking the Flats Challenge and look for my posts at Granola Babies blog!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs
Cecette
Thursday, May 5, 2011
I became a midwife today...
Well sort of....
I got a call from my father-in-law this afternoon (just under an hour from when my daughter and I had to be at a meeting about my sister-in-law's wedding shower/tea). The conversation went basically like this (this is most of what I remembered. Also FYI some of this content may offend some people, we are talking about a birth here):
FIL (father-in-law): you busy?
me: not really I have a meeting at 2:30...
FIL: (pause) I have a sheep lambing and I think she is having some trouble
me: (pause) you know I have only watched my dad pull calves but never done it myself
FIL: yah, but I called your MIL (said her name but don't want to use it) and she figured you could help
me: oh?
FIL: plus your hands are smaller then mine...
So it was agreed that I would go out to the farm and see if I could help check the sheep to see what was taking so long for her to lamb. So I packed up my daughter and didn't bother changing because I figured it might get messy.
My in-laws only have a few sheep, more of a hobby then anything else. The farm is run more on grain. Now I am use to growing up with cattle they are big but quite brilliant animals and they herd quite well. All of the above, I found out is not the qualities of sheep (sorry if I offended people who love sheep but they really do not herd all that well).
So I showed up at the farm my FIL is in the barn waiting for me. We then managed to get the right ewe into the barn into the right stall. (again a warning to those who do not like to hear about a birth this is not the blog post for you).
My FIL then managed to get the ewe on her back so that I could see what the problem is, I could see a tiny little nose and two hoofs, it appeared that the head was trying to come out before the feet which is a no no in delivering of lambs. My FIL wanted to know if I could see if the the lamb was alive so I removed the sac from around its nose and mouth...and it licked! So it was still alive at this point.
So the next option was to see if we could get the legs "unstuck" you do this by slowly pulling on one leg of the lamb until you hear it release and then the other. It worked!!! The lamb came out quite easy after that and WOW was it ever a big lamb! Which according to my FIL was probably minutes away from dieing because the lamb was too big for this first time mom to deliver on her own.
We then trimmed the wool around the utter of the ewe so the lamb would be able to find a tit to drink from. Ewe and lamb were then united and she promptly started to lick her baby off. It was quite the sight too see (unfortunately I forgot my camera will try to take a picture of the lamb in the next few days).
So I wish everyone an early Happy Mother's day as I sit here in awe that I could help a first time mom deliver her lamb.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs
Cecette
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Flats and Handwashing Challenge - why??
She is the biggest reason I cloth diaper in the first place, she is one of the reasons I am taking the flats challenge. Most of what I do these days is for her.
The other major reason I joined this challenge was to prove to myself that even if I was less fortunate I would be able to provided this "luxury" for my baby. I know most moms in the cloth diapering world would not say that it is a luxury to cloth diaper. I agree with them cloth diapering is not a luxury, but affordable. However, this is something I hear more and more from people who say they can not afford to cloth diaper (usually followed by time constraints, and ease of use). Flats are affordable, and hopefully through this challenge I can prove they are not time consuming and easy to use even with hand washing (so would be cinch for anyone with a washer and dryer).
I am also excited that Granola Babies is sending me a dozen flats in exchange for a couple blog posts during the challenge. So watch for my posts at Granola Babies blog!
So now that you know why I am taking the flats challenge you probably want to know what the flats challenge is!
Kim Rosas from Dirty Diaper Laundry (my absolute favorite blog) is holding a flats challenge from May 23-May 30 where you use only flat diapers for one week.
What is a flat diaper??
It is basically a flat piece of cloth that is made out of a cotton material (birdseye is a popular weave). You then do different folds to come up with an absorbent diaper which you then place a waterproof cover over top. A plus to this system is that they are cheap ($29 US from Granola Babies) or you can use towels or flour sacks from walmart. If you are really up for a challenge you can by some material from any place that sells fabric. Also, flats are the easiest system to wash because they are cotton. I have rarely heard of detergent build up or other problems that come with synthetic diapers. Not to say that those don't have there place, but if you are in a pinch financially flats are just what you are looking for. Plus once you fit them with a cute cover you are set (who doesn't like putting cute things on their babies?!)
So back to the challenge...
I am also excited that Granola Babies is sending me a dozen flats in exchange for a couple blog posts during the challenge. So watch for my posts at Granola Babies blog!
So now that you know why I am taking the flats challenge you probably want to know what the flats challenge is!
Kim Rosas from Dirty Diaper Laundry (my absolute favorite blog) is holding a flats challenge from May 23-May 30 where you use only flat diapers for one week.
What is a flat diaper??
It is basically a flat piece of cloth that is made out of a cotton material (birdseye is a popular weave). You then do different folds to come up with an absorbent diaper which you then place a waterproof cover over top. A plus to this system is that they are cheap ($29 US from Granola Babies) or you can use towels or flour sacks from walmart. If you are really up for a challenge you can by some material from any place that sells fabric. Also, flats are the easiest system to wash because they are cotton. I have rarely heard of detergent build up or other problems that come with synthetic diapers. Not to say that those don't have there place, but if you are in a pinch financially flats are just what you are looking for. Plus once you fit them with a cute cover you are set (who doesn't like putting cute things on their babies?!)
So back to the challenge...
Here are the rules (straight from Dirty Diaper Laundry):
- You MUST use Flats.
- You MUST handwash them. How is up to you. (bathtub, sink, large wash tub, portable non electronic washing machine, or camp style washer (bucket and plunger- think churning butter)
- You MUST air dry them. (indoors or outdoors, makes no difference)
- You MUST limit your number of covers in rotation to 5 or less.
- You can use any detergent you want. (Keep in mind that you still want cloth safe detergents)
- You can still use your nighttime diapers but I ask that you try to make flats work. Maybe try a prefold wrapped in a flat.
- You can use disposable liners.
- You CAN’T use a diaper sprayer. I thought long and hard about this one, but at an average cost of 40.00 this is one diaper accessory that is out of range for many families. Dunk, swish, flush, or scrape!
- You MUST start the morning of May 23 and end the evening of May 30.
- You MUST fill out a completion survey about your experience. Results will be published here and can be republished on your own blog.
Lots of Bunny Hugs
(I can't seem to get the official logo working but I will update this as soon as I figure it out)
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Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Toddler wearing - the first couple weeks
Well I have had a couple weeks to work with my new carrier the Beco Gemini. And I have to say this is a pretty cool carrier!
Since the weather is warming up here I have been walking to go pick Hannah up from daycare after work. This has given me lots of practice of having to put on the carrier. I have used it in both the front and back position (not facing out as she is too heavy for that in the front position). So here are a few things that I found out.
The Good Stuff!
It feels very durable and I can cinch Hannah quite close so my center of gravity isn't shifted too much. If I don't feel like doing a back carrier that is fine cause it works just as well in the front position. Also found out back carrier is not as hard as it seemed...in fact I feel like quite a pro when other mom's see me swing Hannah on to my back with such ease (well, now isn't that just tooting my own horn :D...but with as much practice as I have been getting in I should be a pro at it lol)
My Not So Favorite Parts...
I am not in favor of the way the shoulder straps look when it is in back carry. I know this seems trivial but still a slight con for me. It seems to bulge a little and the outer edges seem to pop out (see the pictures I have attached). The other not so favorite part...the fact that I have to have it tight which causes some ummm fat distribution into some not so flattering ways. I have found that if she is in back carry I can pull a longer shirt out over top the waist band which hides some. After googling this topic it seems to be a consensus that most if not all soft structured carrier cause this "muffin top"/"fat redistribution" problem.
So here are some pictures from a recent walk over Easter weekend at the farm. Hope you enjoy!
Getting ready for the walk (I think I might need to cinch her in close...I think I did as the walk progressed)
Hannah is watching the farm dog jump into a Juniper bush...she thought it was quite funny.
If anyone has any tips on using the Beco Gemini I would really appreciate it! Especially if you see something in the pictures that could be improved by adjusting some straps etc.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Since the weather is warming up here I have been walking to go pick Hannah up from daycare after work. This has given me lots of practice of having to put on the carrier. I have used it in both the front and back position (not facing out as she is too heavy for that in the front position). So here are a few things that I found out.
The Good Stuff!
It feels very durable and I can cinch Hannah quite close so my center of gravity isn't shifted too much. If I don't feel like doing a back carrier that is fine cause it works just as well in the front position. Also found out back carrier is not as hard as it seemed...in fact I feel like quite a pro when other mom's see me swing Hannah on to my back with such ease (well, now isn't that just tooting my own horn :D...but with as much practice as I have been getting in I should be a pro at it lol)
My Not So Favorite Parts...
I am not in favor of the way the shoulder straps look when it is in back carry. I know this seems trivial but still a slight con for me. It seems to bulge a little and the outer edges seem to pop out (see the pictures I have attached). The other not so favorite part...the fact that I have to have it tight which causes some ummm fat distribution into some not so flattering ways. I have found that if she is in back carry I can pull a longer shirt out over top the waist band which hides some. After googling this topic it seems to be a consensus that most if not all soft structured carrier cause this "muffin top"/"fat redistribution" problem.
So here are some pictures from a recent walk over Easter weekend at the farm. Hope you enjoy!
Getting ready for the walk (I think I might need to cinch her in close...I think I did as the walk progressed)
Looking at the sheep and the new lambs!
Playing in a big puddle!
Hannah is watching the farm dog jump into a Juniper bush...she thought it was quite funny.
If anyone has any tips on using the Beco Gemini I would really appreciate it! Especially if you see something in the pictures that could be improved by adjusting some straps etc.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
toddler wearing - indepth pictures of my new beco gemini
Here are some pictures of my new carrier the Beco Gemini
Here is the box it came in with examples of the four types of carries.
Here is the colour I got!
So here are some shots of different parts of the carrier, I haven't been able to measure the different parts of the carrier but hope to post that soon.
Here it is with the "hood" up
The "hood" down.
With the waist snapped in (I believe this is used for forward front carry when the baby is small).
The inside of the carrier.
Another shot of the inside of the carrier
The front of the carrier with the straps unbuckled
Here is a close up of the waist band
Close up shot of the shoulder strap (gives you the great option of crossing the straps in the back when you want more support)
Close up shot of on side of the carrier.
Close up shot of the clip from the hood to the carrier.
Another picture of the clip from the hood to the carrier.
Close up shot of the buckle on the shoulder straps (note the button, this is a two handed system so the buckle can not be taken apart with one hand.)
Chest buckle.
How the chest buckle is attached to the shoulder straps (it is adjustable just by sliding in up and down).
The waist band buckle.
Here is a close up of part of the waist band.
And finally, the convenient little loops to roll ends of the straps into.
I hope you enjoyed the pictures of what the Beco Gemini carrier looks like! I have been able to use it a couple times (came in really handy when Hannah was sick and did not want to be put down). However, I haven't used it enough to give it a proper review. I hope to get a chance to soon, seeing as the weather is starting to get a little warmer here on the prairies. KMFX!!!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Here it is with the "hood" up
The "hood" down.
With the waist snapped in (I believe this is used for forward front carry when the baby is small).
The inside of the carrier.
Another shot of the inside of the carrier
The front of the carrier with the straps unbuckled
Here is a close up of the waist band
Close up shot of the shoulder strap (gives you the great option of crossing the straps in the back when you want more support)
Close up shot of on side of the carrier.
Close up shot of the clip from the hood to the carrier.
Another picture of the clip from the hood to the carrier.
Close up shot of the buckle on the shoulder straps (note the button, this is a two handed system so the buckle can not be taken apart with one hand.)
Chest buckle.
How the chest buckle is attached to the shoulder straps (it is adjustable just by sliding in up and down).
The waist band buckle.
Here is a close up of part of the waist band.
And finally, the convenient little loops to roll ends of the straps into.
I hope you enjoyed the pictures of what the Beco Gemini carrier looks like! I have been able to use it a couple times (came in really handy when Hannah was sick and did not want to be put down). However, I haven't used it enough to give it a proper review. I hope to get a chance to soon, seeing as the weather is starting to get a little warmer here on the prairies. KMFX!!!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Monday, March 28, 2011
toddler wearing - the shopping trip for my first SSC
Before I went shopping for a carrier there were a few suggestions that I picked up from thebabywearer.com.
First - take a happy baby (well fed and well rested)
Second - If it is not a floor model it may be stiff if you have to use it out of the box
Third - Yes some carriers have wonderful bells and whistles but the most important thing is the fit, if it doesn't feel right no amount of bells and whistles will help this.
Fourth and finally point if you don't like it take it back and find something that does work.
Now I tried my best to follow the wonderful advice they gave but the hardest was the first. I had to drive an hour and a half which made for one well rested baby (she slept the entire way) but then it was lunch so I had a well rested but very hungry baby, sigh. So we went for lunch (with one of my best friends that I haven't seen in a very long time...so that wasn't too bad). But when we were done I had a full but tired baby, sigh. But I drove 1 1/2hrs!! I really really need this baby carrier! So we went anyways and it was slightly successful...I did end up with a baby carrier but I am not sure if it is "the one". I managed to try on three, the Beco (butterfly II and gemini) and freehand. Hannah co-operated...mostly. I do feel quite happy with my choice but if it doesn't work out I do have 21 days to return it.
But drum roll please....I chose....
The Beco Gemini!!!
I had a really hard time choosing but I loved the fact that there were four ways to wear this carrier. That way if Hannah doesn't take to a certain carry I have several others to use!
So now I have a carrier the next step is to actually use it, keep your eyes open for a review soon!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs! Cecette
First - take a happy baby (well fed and well rested)
Second - If it is not a floor model it may be stiff if you have to use it out of the box
Third - Yes some carriers have wonderful bells and whistles but the most important thing is the fit, if it doesn't feel right no amount of bells and whistles will help this.
Fourth and finally point if you don't like it take it back and find something that does work.
Now I tried my best to follow the wonderful advice they gave but the hardest was the first. I had to drive an hour and a half which made for one well rested baby (she slept the entire way) but then it was lunch so I had a well rested but very hungry baby, sigh. So we went for lunch (with one of my best friends that I haven't seen in a very long time...so that wasn't too bad). But when we were done I had a full but tired baby, sigh. But I drove 1 1/2hrs!! I really really need this baby carrier! So we went anyways and it was slightly successful...I did end up with a baby carrier but I am not sure if it is "the one". I managed to try on three, the Beco (butterfly II and gemini) and freehand. Hannah co-operated...mostly. I do feel quite happy with my choice but if it doesn't work out I do have 21 days to return it.
But drum roll please....I chose....
The Beco Gemini!!!
I had a really hard time choosing but I loved the fact that there were four ways to wear this carrier. That way if Hannah doesn't take to a certain carry I have several others to use!
So now I have a carrier the next step is to actually use it, keep your eyes open for a review soon!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs! Cecette
Sunday, March 27, 2011
toddler wearing - a journey begins
Well I have finally joined in on the baby/toddler wearing...well I did have a wrap that my mother made for me (which I LOVED but since Hannah has gotten heavier I am finding that a wrap does not work for me...or my back).
I know that baby wearing (or toddler wearing) has many benefits (please visit thebabywearer.com they have great information plus explain all the benefits of baby wearing) but I have to say my initial reason to start toddler wearing was actually quite selfish.
It all started with a very unsuccessful trips to the grocery store. Hannah usually enjoys the grocery cart but since starting daycare she seems to wanted to spend every waking moment near or more specifically in my arms. So the entire trip consisted of placing baby in the cart, baby screams (making her most pitiful face possible...lip out and everything), mom tries to entertain baby with whatever possible (cause for some reason she forgot all the toys at home), baby is content for about 2 seconds and demands to be picked up, mom gives in because people are now staring (I live in a small rural town and I can guarantee that almost half the people there know my husband or his parents), mom carries baby on hip while trying to pick out groceries (lots of falling fruit and other food some because mom others do to the now longer reach of baby), so she circles back to placing baby in the cart and the baby meltdown cycle continues.
So after this trip to the grocery store it got me to seriously thinking about getting a baby carrier...the other benefits of toddler wearing is just icing on the cake!
So I started to look at thebabywearer.com and stumbled upon the soft structured carriers (SSC) forum and there I learned about the literally hundreds of SSC out there. For me I narrowed it down to the ones that I could go to a store and try on with my daughter. I thought this would be a safe place to start for my first SSC...maybe I will venture into other online carriers in the future...oooo like the Olives and Applesauce carrier (if you haven't seen these carriers you really need to google them cause they are soooo cute! But hopefully that will be another post kmfx!)
I narrowed it down to the Boba, Beco (butterfly II & gemini) and Freehand. So I found the carriers now it was just getting Hannah to try them out. I will let you know how it goes!!!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
I know that baby wearing (or toddler wearing) has many benefits (please visit thebabywearer.com they have great information plus explain all the benefits of baby wearing) but I have to say my initial reason to start toddler wearing was actually quite selfish.
It all started with a very unsuccessful trips to the grocery store. Hannah usually enjoys the grocery cart but since starting daycare she seems to wanted to spend every waking moment near or more specifically in my arms. So the entire trip consisted of placing baby in the cart, baby screams (making her most pitiful face possible...lip out and everything), mom tries to entertain baby with whatever possible (cause for some reason she forgot all the toys at home), baby is content for about 2 seconds and demands to be picked up, mom gives in because people are now staring (I live in a small rural town and I can guarantee that almost half the people there know my husband or his parents), mom carries baby on hip while trying to pick out groceries (lots of falling fruit and other food some because mom others do to the now longer reach of baby), so she circles back to placing baby in the cart and the baby meltdown cycle continues.
So after this trip to the grocery store it got me to seriously thinking about getting a baby carrier...the other benefits of toddler wearing is just icing on the cake!
So I started to look at thebabywearer.com and stumbled upon the soft structured carriers (SSC) forum and there I learned about the literally hundreds of SSC out there. For me I narrowed it down to the ones that I could go to a store and try on with my daughter. I thought this would be a safe place to start for my first SSC...maybe I will venture into other online carriers in the future...oooo like the Olives and Applesauce carrier (if you haven't seen these carriers you really need to google them cause they are soooo cute! But hopefully that will be another post kmfx!)
I narrowed it down to the Boba, Beco (butterfly II & gemini) and Freehand. So I found the carriers now it was just getting Hannah to try them out. I will let you know how it goes!!!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
hmmm MIA...again
WOW have I ever been MIA from here!!!
I feel so bad but I guess I do have a few excuses lol...
I started back at work (orientation to the health region was in December and orientation to the site was start of January) I am casual in Home Care and Part-time in a long term care unit. I have to say yes the orientation was quite good but I still feel a little like a fish out of water when it comes to some things. I think it has more to do with my confidence being away for so long. Though some things do return fast when you have stressful situation to deal with...found that the hard way on my second shift at the long term care. At least it was an orientation shift so there were two of us to deal with the "issue".
My little DD is happy and healthy attending her day home daycare. I am not sure if I posted about my daycare issue...it has been so long since I have posted. Well if I am repeating myself (which having a quick glance at the recent posts I don't think I mentioned it) please just skip this portion.
Back in September I found a wonderful daycare that was run by a very nice lady (they are funded I think provincially, and are considered to be a daycare not a home centre) the plan was for Hannah to go a few days before I started orientation in December to get to know the place and to be use to the place. The cost was $450.00 a month for going 4 days/week (and still that if I send her less), once she hits 18mos it decreased to $400.00. So I thought that was pretty reasonable. We went over what Hannah likes/dislikes etc. I stressed that it is very important to me that she stays in cloth diapers and that she gets two naps a day. Some people don't want there kids at 12mos to have two naps but I do...cause Hannah can be an absolute bear if she does not get those two naps. The lady running the place said yes she was fine with all that...I wanted to make sure because the closest kids to her age were 6mos older than her and were not on the same schedule. Well, when it came time to start her orientation days the lady actually looking after the Hannah was not to keen on changing the current schedule so that Hannah could have her two naps. The other babies went outside to play at 1030 (Hannah's first nap) and then had their one nap at 1230 (at the time that Hannah would be up) till 14:30 (the time Hannah would go down for her second nap). I could see that this would be an issue. I also came to the realization that at this point in Hannah's development she needed more babies her age and to be in a place that was able to give her the two naps she needed. Therefore, we found our perfect match day home daycare! When Hannah is a bit older I might consider taking her back to the daycare so that she is in an environment that is like preschool rather then a babysitter atmosphere; but at this point this is what Hannah needs.
So that was my daycare issue...it got worked out (but there were a few very stressful days).
As for my side job (the cottontail kisses boutique) it has been almost put on hold because of the increase in work load with Hannah and the new job. I hope to start back at it in February, but more than likely it will get pushed till March (when hubby is home with us and we are settled in the new house).
Well, I think it is bedtime...I work an evening tomorrow so should get some rest.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
p.s. As a side note I pay at the new home daycare $20 a day and it is not a set amount to bring her. So it can be 5 days or 1 day...which is nice for me seeing as I have shift work.
I feel so bad but I guess I do have a few excuses lol...
I started back at work (orientation to the health region was in December and orientation to the site was start of January) I am casual in Home Care and Part-time in a long term care unit. I have to say yes the orientation was quite good but I still feel a little like a fish out of water when it comes to some things. I think it has more to do with my confidence being away for so long. Though some things do return fast when you have stressful situation to deal with...found that the hard way on my second shift at the long term care. At least it was an orientation shift so there were two of us to deal with the "issue".
My little DD is happy and healthy attending her day home daycare. I am not sure if I posted about my daycare issue...it has been so long since I have posted. Well if I am repeating myself (which having a quick glance at the recent posts I don't think I mentioned it) please just skip this portion.
Back in September I found a wonderful daycare that was run by a very nice lady (they are funded I think provincially, and are considered to be a daycare not a home centre) the plan was for Hannah to go a few days before I started orientation in December to get to know the place and to be use to the place. The cost was $450.00 a month for going 4 days/week (and still that if I send her less), once she hits 18mos it decreased to $400.00. So I thought that was pretty reasonable. We went over what Hannah likes/dislikes etc. I stressed that it is very important to me that she stays in cloth diapers and that she gets two naps a day. Some people don't want there kids at 12mos to have two naps but I do...cause Hannah can be an absolute bear if she does not get those two naps. The lady running the place said yes she was fine with all that...I wanted to make sure because the closest kids to her age were 6mos older than her and were not on the same schedule. Well, when it came time to start her orientation days the lady actually looking after the Hannah was not to keen on changing the current schedule so that Hannah could have her two naps. The other babies went outside to play at 1030 (Hannah's first nap) and then had their one nap at 1230 (at the time that Hannah would be up) till 14:30 (the time Hannah would go down for her second nap). I could see that this would be an issue. I also came to the realization that at this point in Hannah's development she needed more babies her age and to be in a place that was able to give her the two naps she needed. Therefore, we found our perfect match day home daycare! When Hannah is a bit older I might consider taking her back to the daycare so that she is in an environment that is like preschool rather then a babysitter atmosphere; but at this point this is what Hannah needs.
So that was my daycare issue...it got worked out (but there were a few very stressful days).
As for my side job (the cottontail kisses boutique) it has been almost put on hold because of the increase in work load with Hannah and the new job. I hope to start back at it in February, but more than likely it will get pushed till March (when hubby is home with us and we are settled in the new house).
Well, I think it is bedtime...I work an evening tomorrow so should get some rest.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
p.s. As a side note I pay at the new home daycare $20 a day and it is not a set amount to bring her. So it can be 5 days or 1 day...which is nice for me seeing as I have shift work.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Almost One...and a little bit more
Well it is November and is almost a year since the birth of my daughter.
WOW! I can't believe that a year had gone by so fast. Looking back at the year I am really happy that I took the year off. Getting to spend all that time with Hannah was amazing! I wish I could spend more than a year at home. However, do to financial circumstance that is not possible...not to mention the health benefits are really hard to give up.
I do miss work a bit...don't get me wrong I love being an RN. I think maybe I haven't found my perfect position yet...which makes it harder. Hopefully a change of scenery will help.
The family is moving back to where my hubby grew-up. Still in the same province but quite a bit farther from my family. But I figured being close to some family members is better than none. Plus I can't wait to end up on the farm. Yup that is right, I am going to be a farmer's wife :D...and I am going to enjoy it! Some might think I am crazy but I am really excited. I grew up on a farm and really want to give that to my kids. Now enough of my other rambles...back to Hannah turning one!
So what should I do for her first birthday! Here are the plans so far (keep in mind that my niece will be celebrating with hannah this year...born three days apart. So what I do for hannah I will do for my niece.):
- cupcake banner with her name
- small personal cupcake (wilton cake pan)
- large cupcake (wilton cake pan)
- fabric cupcake placement (applique a candle every year)
So I better get started cause with christmas right after her birthday December is a busy month!
So those are my plans so far...if anyone has some suggestions on cupcake based decorations please leave a comment!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
WOW! I can't believe that a year had gone by so fast. Looking back at the year I am really happy that I took the year off. Getting to spend all that time with Hannah was amazing! I wish I could spend more than a year at home. However, do to financial circumstance that is not possible...not to mention the health benefits are really hard to give up.
I do miss work a bit...don't get me wrong I love being an RN. I think maybe I haven't found my perfect position yet...which makes it harder. Hopefully a change of scenery will help.
The family is moving back to where my hubby grew-up. Still in the same province but quite a bit farther from my family. But I figured being close to some family members is better than none. Plus I can't wait to end up on the farm. Yup that is right, I am going to be a farmer's wife :D...and I am going to enjoy it! Some might think I am crazy but I am really excited. I grew up on a farm and really want to give that to my kids. Now enough of my other rambles...back to Hannah turning one!
So what should I do for her first birthday! Here are the plans so far (keep in mind that my niece will be celebrating with hannah this year...born three days apart. So what I do for hannah I will do for my niece.):
- cupcake banner with her name
- small personal cupcake (wilton cake pan)
- large cupcake (wilton cake pan)
- fabric cupcake placement (applique a candle every year)
So I better get started cause with christmas right after her birthday December is a busy month!
So those are my plans so far...if anyone has some suggestions on cupcake based decorations please leave a comment!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
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Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Dilemma Of The Age Gap...
I mentioned in a previous post about how to decide how many kids is right (well what questions my husband and I have to answer to help us decide). I mentioned in that post that one of the biggest struggles was deciding what is the perfect age gap.
For me this will be the deciding factor on how many children we have (and also max age I want to be...but that can always be stretched). Now I use to think the best gap was two years...that is what is between me and my sister and that is what most people I know say is there "perfect" age gap. But is two years really the perfect age gap? Or has that just become the norm? Is the age gap getting larger over the years? I know a couple people who want large age gaps (to me that is over 5 years) or others that is just the way it worked out for their family. But if you had to choose and had total control (which is very unlikely but lets just go with it :D) over the age gap between your kids what would it be???
I found this article at THE TIMES it points to a three year age gap but states that what ever the age gap you have to make sure that you prepare the older child for a sibling. Also to make sure that you make each child feel special in their own way. But if you go here (to the writer's blog) you can see Sarah Ebner's full article including the missing case study.
Another one BabyCentre talks about the increase of premature birth rates are higher if become pregnant before 6 months and above 5 years. Also points out that with a smaller gap the expenses are closer together but you get the baby part over quicker. While with a larger gap expenses are over a larger time frame and you may feel like you can focus on each child more.
Below is my personal thoughts on choosing an age gap.
Diapers!
I personally wouldn't mind having two in diapers...I use cloth diapers so for me this would not be a major cost. I currently have all the newborn diapers that I would last through at least 2 if not 3 more children.
Potty training.
I really want to have a baby either before my older is being potty trained or has been potty trained for awhile. I have heard several hundred times of moms who said that they were some what potty trained and then regressed when baby came along. I think this is harder to pin point as every child potty trains at their own time.
Never get out of baby mode.
This can be a positive or a negative. One way you won't feel like you are starting all over again like you might if you wait 4+ years. On the other hand it feels like you always have a baby tied to your hip...you may feel like you don't get to enjoy the older child and their growing independence.
On maternity leave with your friends.
This seems like a very trivial way to base the age gap on but it can/could be important to some. So you want a friend to be off at the same time or go through pregnancy together. My sister-in-law was pregnant the same time as me and it was very fun! Especially if you are due as close as we were (my daughter born three days after my niece). We got to complain about morning sickness and heartburn together. It felt like you had someone who truly understood what you were going through...because they were!
University...
Having children closer means that you pay a larger amount at one time (or closer together). If they are farther apart there is breathing room to add to the savings. But this also means that you will be paying for University of a larger span which can be hard if you want to save up for retirement. With a smaller gap you can start on retirement savings sooner.
But I guess when it comes down to it as long as we give the same attention (as possible) to each child I think any age gap can work out. There are positives and negatives to any age gap. Also I think a small age gap is just as likely to give you close children as a larger age gap. Though I still think I would love a two year age gap...that is if everything goes as planned. :D
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
p.s. if you google "perfect age between kids" there are a lot of blogs, articles, and forums that bring up this topic.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Off To Work We Go...playing catch-up
Well not yet...but my maternity leave ends at the start of January 2011. This means I have to get ready and dust off my books to get reacquainted with nursing ones again. It will be 14 months since I have stepped inside a hospital or nursing home as an RN...which is a little overwhelming.
If everything works out I will be starting back in a .70 position...meaning I would be working 21 8 hour shifts every 6 weeks. This is more garunteed work then in my other position which is nice because I won't need to rely on picking up more shifts to make it to full time. This also means that Hannah will have a better routine and have less surprise trips to the daycare.
So how do I prepare to going back to work??
There is little to no information on returning to work as an RN from maternity leave. Which is odd because around 93% of RNs are female and in Saskatchewan you can take up to 18 months without losing seniority. So it is just natural that maybe your skills won't be as sharp as they were before the maternity leave started.
So what can I do so that I won't feel like a fish out of water? and how do I accomplish this while looking after a child???
Well, I think that the first question is going to be easier then the later. I still have my study book from when I was studying for my CRNE so that is a nice jumping point. Also I have a few other nursing pocket books that I think will be a big help, especially when it comes to pharmacology. For me this was the weakest point for my nursing career. I just was not very good at memorizing all the names. So I guess I will dig out my pharmacology book too.
So I know what books I should look at but what should I focus on??? It took four years to get through the RN program and that is a lot of information to get through.
Now when can I accomplish this "studying"? Well, I could do it while Hannah is having her nap...but I do like to save that for me time. Like checking my email, scanning facebook, and thinking up new blog posts (which I have several in the works...I just don't get around to posting them too often). But maybe I will have to give up some time in there if I want to feel safe and prepared when I go back to work. There is also the time after Hannah goes to bed.
So I have a plan...but will I go through with it??? Hopefully.
Lots of Bunny-Hugs
Cecette
p.s. if anyone has any tips on ways to organize a ton of information please let me know :D
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Fluffy Envy Giveaway!
I have been keeping my eye on the Fluffy Envy blog...a new to the blog world (started in July 2010). There is even a wonderful article on mama cloth! I have not been able to test out their store yet...but I hope to in the near future (my fluff money has run out for a bit...). I have heard great things about their costumer service.
First prize is an AppleCheeks Little Bundle - in your choice of size and colour
Second prize is a Weehuggers cover - in your choice of size and colour
I LOVE my AppleCheeks...that is no secret so I will jump on any contest that includes them.
I love the fact that they fit so snug around the thighs...preventing any blow-outs. I also love the arrangement of the snaps...and they have amazing inserts!!! Nothing can beat AppleCheeks bamboo inserts and they are sooooo soft. That is one insert I don't mind using next to my DD's skin.
Now on to my new obsession....Weehuggers!
I actually haven't received my fluff mail yet...they are suppose to be in the mail next Monday! So all I can really comment is what I see on their website and what others have said. They are soooo cute! Who could resist those little mittens??? I can not wait to try them out...and maybe even do a review on here. Please check out their website and their cool new video...it is sooo cute! Also, pass it on to your friends....it may just help spread the word about using cloth diapers (and it is quite a catchy tune too).
So if you want to get in on the action just head on over to the Fluff Envy Blog and follow the directions on how to enter.
Oh and don't forget to invite as many friends as possible to "like" them on their facebook page. They are only giving the prizes out if they reach 1,750 fans.
Good luck to everyone...and I am crossing my fingers that I win!!!
Lots of Bunny-Hugs!
Cecette
Saturday, August 14, 2010
How Many Is Just Right...
My little girl turns 8 months here in August and it is amazing how she has grown. She now can almost crawl (a commando style where she pulls her self along with her arms), can get to her hands and feet (with her bum in the air) and is developing a personality of her own. It is fun to see how she reacts to new things and is just starting to get into everything. It is amazing how she knows what I don't want her to play with as she seems to be attracted to those things.
However, with her turning 8 months my thoughts do turn to having a second child. At this time we haven't really set a limit on the number of children we want. It originally started out as 3 kids (as both my husband and I have two siblings) but for me the number changes every day. I do know that I would like to provide a sibling for Hannah so I know the number we want is more than one. I do like how compact that two children are (not the children themselves but the amount of stuff that you have to bring) compared to 3, 4, 5 or more. However, I see moms in the store with 4 little children toddling after them, it looks so cute. I know that in reality more kids are stressful and can be a money strain but I do think that there are some positives to a larger family.
So how do you know when you have hit the perfect number of children????
After a lot of thinking and searching the net for help I have narrowed down to a few questions that might help us decide....
What is the maximum age you want to be when your last child is born?
The chances of complication rises with age, as well as a decrease in fertility. Also do you want to be in your mid to late thirties and still be getting up with a newborn?
I am 24 right now so I think I have a little more leeway with the age issue. However, I would like to still be less then 35 when I am having my last child. Now, I don't want to say that people shouldn't or can't have children over the age 35 (my husband will be 38 at that point). For me and my husband it would be ideal if our children were at least in there 20's before I turn 55. That way we would have time to save for our retirement plus have a few years were we don't have children in University to support.
So for me it works out to being about a 10 year span that I would want my children in.
What age gap is right for you?
However, with her turning 8 months my thoughts do turn to having a second child. At this time we haven't really set a limit on the number of children we want. It originally started out as 3 kids (as both my husband and I have two siblings) but for me the number changes every day. I do know that I would like to provide a sibling for Hannah so I know the number we want is more than one. I do like how compact that two children are (not the children themselves but the amount of stuff that you have to bring) compared to 3, 4, 5 or more. However, I see moms in the store with 4 little children toddling after them, it looks so cute. I know that in reality more kids are stressful and can be a money strain but I do think that there are some positives to a larger family.
So how do you know when you have hit the perfect number of children????
After a lot of thinking and searching the net for help I have narrowed down to a few questions that might help us decide....
What is the maximum age you want to be when your last child is born?
The chances of complication rises with age, as well as a decrease in fertility. Also do you want to be in your mid to late thirties and still be getting up with a newborn?
I am 24 right now so I think I have a little more leeway with the age issue. However, I would like to still be less then 35 when I am having my last child. Now, I don't want to say that people shouldn't or can't have children over the age 35 (my husband will be 38 at that point). For me and my husband it would be ideal if our children were at least in there 20's before I turn 55. That way we would have time to save for our retirement plus have a few years were we don't have children in University to support.
So for me it works out to being about a 10 year span that I would want my children in.
What age gap is right for you?
If you want 5 years between each, you want to be finished having kids at the age of 35 and you are having your first at 23. Then you really can only have two children...unless you alter one of the parameters...such as different age gap or your maximum age (cause if you already have a child you can't really alter your current age :D)
This one I really still struggle with...so I will go into this in the next post (I have been doing lots of fact finding on what people are saying about the perfect age gap).
How many children can the place you live accommodate?
If you are not willing to move then your have to think about the living arrangement that you can accommodate. Would you have every child have their own room or would you want to double up in a room? I grew up in the same room as my sister and didn't get my own until she went to University (I was then in grade eleven). Eventually my hubby and I will be taking over the family farm where the homestead house has 4 bedrooms (other then the master room) plus there is room in the basement for at least two more bedrooms. So this really does not limit us.
Can you/are you willing to get a bigger vehicle if needed?
This one I really still struggle with...so I will go into this in the next post (I have been doing lots of fact finding on what people are saying about the perfect age gap).
How many children can the place you live accommodate?
If you are not willing to move then your have to think about the living arrangement that you can accommodate. Would you have every child have their own room or would you want to double up in a room? I grew up in the same room as my sister and didn't get my own until she went to University (I was then in grade eleven). Eventually my hubby and I will be taking over the family farm where the homestead house has 4 bedrooms (other then the master room) plus there is room in the basement for at least two more bedrooms. So this really does not limit us.
Can you/are you willing to get a bigger vehicle if needed?
We have a VW GTI and a Chevy extended cab truck. We could squeeze three kids into the car but anymore and we would need a larger vehicle. My ideal situation would be to get a large SUV and keep my car for work travel. I don't really see this happening but I could always dream.
Can you afford childcare if both parents have to work?or is one willing to stay home?
I just signed my DD up for childcare to start in January of 2011. For an infant full-time is $500/month and a toddler is $450/month. Now I am not sure if there is a discount for the number of children you have in at once but it can get pretty expensive. I work as an RN and will be going back to work to help support the family when my husband starts to farm. My hubby would be able to parent on weekends, evenings, and nights but he has lots of farm work to accomplish. Plus, after the move there will be lots on his plate to figure out. So it is just easier for us if we can get our daughter into daycare.
I just signed my DD up for childcare to start in January of 2011. For an infant full-time is $500/month and a toddler is $450/month. Now I am not sure if there is a discount for the number of children you have in at once but it can get pretty expensive. I work as an RN and will be going back to work to help support the family when my husband starts to farm. My hubby would be able to parent on weekends, evenings, and nights but he has lots of farm work to accomplish. Plus, after the move there will be lots on his plate to figure out. So it is just easier for us if we can get our daughter into daycare.
I have also read online that with more kids eventually you do have someone who could look after the other kids. Now this also depends on your oldest child's temperament. Are they capable of looking after the other kids (and will the other kids co-operate with having a sibling babysit?)
I believe that the amount of children you have should be based on how many you can emotionally, physically and financially support.
The best piece of advice that I came across was on the website Family Education. At the end of the article about planning for more children it talks about being flexible. That the best idea is to have a "settle-in period after the birth of each child" and then you can "readdress the issue if more children". This is important because it "prevents you from finding yourself overloaded based on a random number you may have pulled out of your head long before your wedding night."
I think that is a pretty good idea.
or I could just take an online quiz and have it decide for me...lol...if you were wondering I did take several, and they usually said 3 or more....hmmmm didn't really help lol
Lots Of Bunny-Hugs
Cecette
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Oh A Camping We Will Go...
Well I am finally getting around to posting about my camping with cloth diapers. Enjoy!
For those who are interested this was in my cloth diaper entourage:
- 8 PUL covers (fishnoodle, thirsties, wonderwrap, bummis)
- 2 wool covers (royal bunz. niffty nappy)
- 7 microfiber inserts
- 4 hemp inserts
- 7 velour doublers
- 1 thirsies fab fitted
- 2 goodmama fitted
- 1 goodmama one cover
- 1 bumgenius pocket OS
- 2 applecheeks covers
- 1 happy heiny pocket OS
- 2 rump-a-rooz pocket OS
- 2 small fuzzibunz pocket
- 2 med fuzzibunz pocket
- 2 grae-flats P&E
- 12 yellow edged GMD
- 4 flats
- 2 applecheeks inserts
- liners
- wipes
- 3 wetbags
- rubber gloves
- pail
- soap
all of that was packed quite nicley in a dry sack...which is very handy if it might rain.
Day One:
I packed for most if not all this day (a Friday) till my hubby came home after work. We left at around 6-7pm and traveled till 12pm. On the way we had to take a couple gravel rodes (as the main highway by our city is shut down do to it being flooded out because of all this rain) and even took Hannah on her first ferry ride. When I say ferry it is not that grand of an event...just across a small river. But it was fun none the less. We arrived at our first camping spot about half way to our destination. We managed to set the site up quite quick. It helps when your tent is as compact as ours is.
Day Two:
The next am I had only a few prefolds dirty so I chose to wash them up so they could dry on the back seat while we drove. We had a pail that I could wash the diapers in and another collapsible one that I could go get water with. It turned out that there was a place for showers so I got the water there (which was nice cause it was warm). This was my first time washing by hand let alone in the outdoors. So I put them in just water first (my prerinse) and shook them around and kneaded them (that is what the gloves were for). Then I dumped that water down the toilet and got more fresh water I did the same thing but with soap. I let them soak a bit and gave them a pretty good scrub. Dumped the water down the toilet and rinsed them out two more times. It worked out pretty well...I think it would have been easier with more diapers to make for better swishing action.
While I was washing diapers my Hubby was making some breakfast....mmmm nothing like a hot meal over a fire!
Next we were on the road again to the reunion site. It was another 5 hours drive and our little girl was such a trooper!! She only got upset if she was starting to get hungry. The only down side was that on the road there are really no baby stations for changing. So most of time my little one had her bum changed in the car.
We got to the reunion just in time for supper. It was awesome! Next we had family pictures (each section of the family had a different colour shirt - my grandma had 13 siblings) and sat by a fire talking.
Day Three:
Woke up to a wonderful breakfast with the family and had a fun filled day of games and such. I found that even in the warm weather my wet bags held in any smell and the Rockin' Green Pail Shaker helped a lot. I never really got around to washing the diapers as it was a very busy day and we had decided that we were going to Edmonton to visit my Hubby's aunt (said we could use her washing/drying machine). If we were staying camping longer I am sure the hand washing would have work very well. We even had a clotheslines that I would have been able to string up.
Day Four:
Rain rain go away! We had a very loud thunderstorm that night followed by even more rain in the am. It is quite difficult taking down a tent and all the stuff in your tent when it is raining. Also tip for all those who might want to camp...keep your rain gear in the tent so you don't have to go out in the rain to get it. We had one last breakfast with the family and headed to Edmonton.
Day Five and Six:
Woot woot shopping!!! Oh and the diapers held up pretty good no leaks and got to wash them in a real washing machine!
Day Seven:
Packed up and started to hit the road back to Saskatchewan. We stopped off at Jack Fish Lake to spend a few days camping. Set up our camp site again and even put up a tarp this time so that if it did rain our table would still be dry in the am.
Day Eight:
Went swimming in Jack Fish Lake with Hannah... I think she thought it was too cold so we didn't stay long. My hubby also tried a little bit of fishing but no luck in finding any fish.
Day Nine:
Had another thunderstorm...with very close lightning. Hannah even enjoyed the loud booms and managed to sleep right through most of it. Woke up to a wet camp site. We packed up again and headed home.
In all I think it was a wonderful trip. Did not get to test washing the diapers by hand much but there were a few things that I concluded.
1. I love prefolds - easy to wash and easy to dry
2. I love apple cheeks covers and bamboo inserts - takes a little longer to dry but you never be wondering of they will leak. and with a little extra they can be a wonderful night time diaper.
3. Rockin' Green Detergent is the best for camping...cleans well when hand washing and rinses out easy
4. Rockin' Green Pail Freshener - a must if you are going longer then 3 days to keep your bag smelling clean. I sprinkled a little on each diaper when it was placed in the bag.
I would never think twice about camping with cloth diapers, it was a very rewarding experience.
lots of bunny hugs,
Cecette
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