T.M.I.

Over the past years life has taught me many valuable lessons. But the most poinent have been the ones that I have learned while raising our 4 children. And after attending more then my fair share of baby showers I decided maybe it's time to start documenting these valuable tid-bits. Besides having Keira going through everything again is really helping me remember these special tricks.

Today I'll start with: "Baby Bombshells #1-4"
(please note: if you have a weak stomach...don't pass go and collect $200...if you know what I mean)
#1. Many times babies cry through their first baths and many o' diaper changes. We have found that with putting a little extra warmth on their abdomen areas, it will totally change their dispositions. In baths, we wet a thick wash cloth and continually add more warm water over it with a cup. And when we are changing their diapers we will lay an extra blanket over them to keep them feeling secure. (note: they will soon learn to love baths and not need this warmth, especially after they put on some extra weight)
#2. Having many diaper blowouts? When newborns are only taking in a liquid and haven't started solids yet, their poops are so liquid-y it's like a rocket going off. And that pressure shooting through their diapers is lethal! Major stain-age! Try different brands of diapers until you find the one that fits your baby the best. I have had many friends rave about expensive brands and others that have found the cheap labels worked better. I figure, all babies are built differently and not all diapers are shaped the same.
At times things will be going well with a specific diaper but then suddenly the explosions are no longer staying contained and many times in the morning pee is leaking through. This is the major hint that it's time to go up a size.
#3. With nursing come the usual "sore nips". And at times...dare I say...cracking and bleeding. I'm cringing at the thoughts of the pain. So NOT FUN. With this 4th pregnancy I took some advice to not us "nursing pads" for the first week. It is thought that this extra cotton depletes natural oils and drys up "so much" that it might add to the cracking and bleeding. I tried this theory and stand by it 100%. This was my first time not having any of these issues.
#4. And with breast-feeding comes pumping. Adding more to my illusions of feeling like a "dairy queen". With my first child I felt like a cow being hooked up to some machine. I couldn't "let down" any milk with that darn thing. And it burned liked crazy. Thankfully after many conversations with friends I have become much more successful with each kid.
a. Feed your baby on one breast and pump the other one. That way they baby brought down the milk for you. Repeat again and switch breasts.
b. Use olive oil. Having a machine tug on my whole breast felt like someone was giving me an indian burn. By using this natural ingredient to "lube up" kept everything gliding along. Very helpful!

***I already have a list going for future entry's. There will be more BABY BOMBSHELL's to come!***