If I had to pick my favourite month of the year, it would definitely be hard to choose between December and January. January in Sydney is a lovely, quiet month - everyone is away, school isn't back, it's hot without the February humidity and work isn't too busy. It's the beginning of a new year, full of promise.
But December, at least for me, always has a great sense of winding down. It's busy, for sure. Christmas shopping, christmas parties, last minute things to get done before the holiday period. But there's a sense of excitement, anticipation, and working towards a common goal - a big celebration and some well deserved time out.
J goes on annual leave in two weeks and it's one of those "so close but so far" scenarios. I actually sort of resent him going to work at the moment, like "AGAIN?! You have to work again?!" which is ridiculous but I'm just looking forward to him being off.
We've also taken on all sorts of ridiculous projects, chiefly him building a large and complicated cubby house in the backyard, just to put some extra pressure on ourselves! But as I said to my sister, it's nice to be frantic at this time of year so that you really feel you deserve your Christmas/New Year indulgence.
Meanwhile I'm also enjoying trying to make Christmas exciting for H, counting down with our advent calendar and making Christmas decorations. We're going to meet Santa on Friday which I think is more exciting for me than her (and certainly for little W, who I'm not sure will be impressed with Santa at all).
My mind is constantly whirling with a mental to-do list, cards, presents, gifts for teachers, party invites and RSVPs, menu planning and family catch ups. But there's a golden, sunshine-y light shimmering at the end of the tunnel that is December - the arrival of Oma from Germany, seeing my babies' faces on Christmas morning, wines with a whole host of those I love most and a little beach shack with our name on it.
Happy December!
Z x
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Groundhog Day
I have definitely been struggling with the "same thing, different day" aspect of my life lately. I'm aware that I should basically shut up and be grateful for my life which is pretty privileged and generally very happy, but I think anyone who spends their days home with very small children will tell you it can be mind numbing.
Like, some days I wonder if I have had a seizure my brain is so mushy.
H has recently started at our local Montessori Kindy, and this is generally AMAZING, we love the school and it adds a lovely element of routine into our days. We walk to school each day and three hours later we walk back, then come home to eat lunch together.
But it does sort of jar our day. By the time we've had lunch, W is ready for another sleep. H also sleeps some days. By the time he or they wake up, it's often close enough to dinner time that I can't really be bothered to leave the house again. Which is fine, really. The kids are happiest at home. Just boring for me I guess.
I love the afternoons at home playing with my babies but there's only so much shops/princesses/extremely specific games that are dictated to me in detail that I can stand. So it kind of goes…do some washing…play a little shops…any new emails? No? Sing to the baby. What time is it? 4.15. Hm…let's do play dough! Okay…now it's 4.25, and the house is reaaaaally messy. Tidy a little. 4.29. Any new emails?
The thing is, we kind of HAVE been changing things up a little. On Sunday we had a picnic dinner in the park with friends, and last night we went out to a restaurant. My sister stayed over last week, J took a day off. So it's strange that I'm feeling this way.
Maybe I'm hormonal? Or maybe it's just 8 months of juggling, 8 months of being really busy but at the same time doing absolutely nothing. It's a strange, inexplicable thing, being a mother of infants and preschoolers. You can't quite explain it unless you've done it - yet most Mums seem to understand that there is something specifically challenging, something lonely and isolating, about this phase of parenting.
Mostly it's great. Mostly it's fantastic, actually - your kids have boundless love to share and they actually worship you, for a while.
But it can sometimes feel like groundhog day!
Z x
Like, some days I wonder if I have had a seizure my brain is so mushy.
H has recently started at our local Montessori Kindy, and this is generally AMAZING, we love the school and it adds a lovely element of routine into our days. We walk to school each day and three hours later we walk back, then come home to eat lunch together.
But it does sort of jar our day. By the time we've had lunch, W is ready for another sleep. H also sleeps some days. By the time he or they wake up, it's often close enough to dinner time that I can't really be bothered to leave the house again. Which is fine, really. The kids are happiest at home. Just boring for me I guess.
I love the afternoons at home playing with my babies but there's only so much shops/princesses/extremely specific games that are dictated to me in detail that I can stand. So it kind of goes…do some washing…play a little shops…any new emails? No? Sing to the baby. What time is it? 4.15. Hm…let's do play dough! Okay…now it's 4.25, and the house is reaaaaally messy. Tidy a little. 4.29. Any new emails?
The thing is, we kind of HAVE been changing things up a little. On Sunday we had a picnic dinner in the park with friends, and last night we went out to a restaurant. My sister stayed over last week, J took a day off. So it's strange that I'm feeling this way.
Maybe I'm hormonal? Or maybe it's just 8 months of juggling, 8 months of being really busy but at the same time doing absolutely nothing. It's a strange, inexplicable thing, being a mother of infants and preschoolers. You can't quite explain it unless you've done it - yet most Mums seem to understand that there is something specifically challenging, something lonely and isolating, about this phase of parenting.
Mostly it's great. Mostly it's fantastic, actually - your kids have boundless love to share and they actually worship you, for a while.
But it can sometimes feel like groundhog day!
Z x
Monday, November 3, 2014
Baby Led Weaning: When It Works (And When It Doesn't...)
From the moment I feel pregnant with baby W I was determined to introduce solids to him via baby led weaning. "Baby led weaning" sounds kind of official and complicated, but essentially it's just offering a range of safe finger foods from around six months and letting them feed themselves. No puree!
There wasn't really any firm reason I wanted to do this and I think there's absolutely nothing wrong with puree. I did feel however that H somehow became a terrible eater, so I might as well try something different! Also it is easier in a way as baby can eat a version of what you eat. Plus it's, like, so the rage right now.
Our BLW journey was complicated by a few things. Firstly, I had really hoped to breastfeed and that didn't work out long term (again!). This meant that I really wanted him to start solids prior to six months, as based on my own research and doctor's advice I don't feel formula gives babies a range of tastes and nutrients the same way breast milk does.
So, we started him on a few spoon-fed foods at four months, none of which he really took to until five months. By five months, W was over 65cm long and about 8kg. Big. Not only did he take to food at this age, he couldn't get enough. It is still pretty much the only thing over which he will cry - not getting it fast enough.
This meant that when I tried to shift to finger foods at 5.5/6 months, he was INCREDIBLY frustrated. He just wasn't getting the volume of food he needed and it certainly wasn't coming at a satisfactory speed. Cue screaming in frustration from a child who has basically never screamed about anything, which was of course very frustrating and distressing for me.
My solution for the last couple of months has been to offer some finger food along with a puree, and this has worked well. He loves the independence of feeding himself and gets great enjoyment out of holding a spoon (I now struggle to feed him without letting him hold one!) and has become really good at chewing and swallowing given his age.
Over the weekend, I noticed that W (now 7.5 months) was really into his finger food and actually managing to get quite a bit in. So today I tested him with some pasta, meatballs and fruit, and he managed to get enough in to be satisfied for a whole meal. H and I enjoyed watching him make a big mess and he kept looking over and laughing. The floor afterwards was interesting, but overall it was lots of fun and great to not be spoon feeding him.
Anyway, I guess the message is that if you have a really large, voracious baby or a really small baby who needs quite a set amount of nutrients, a degree of BLW is still possible. And overall it is an easy and fun way to introduce solids that (research suggests) could have long term benefits for your child's eating habits. (Still, nothing beats a fruit and veg sachet when you're in a bind!)
Z x
There wasn't really any firm reason I wanted to do this and I think there's absolutely nothing wrong with puree. I did feel however that H somehow became a terrible eater, so I might as well try something different! Also it is easier in a way as baby can eat a version of what you eat. Plus it's, like, so the rage right now.
Our BLW journey was complicated by a few things. Firstly, I had really hoped to breastfeed and that didn't work out long term (again!). This meant that I really wanted him to start solids prior to six months, as based on my own research and doctor's advice I don't feel formula gives babies a range of tastes and nutrients the same way breast milk does.
So, we started him on a few spoon-fed foods at four months, none of which he really took to until five months. By five months, W was over 65cm long and about 8kg. Big. Not only did he take to food at this age, he couldn't get enough. It is still pretty much the only thing over which he will cry - not getting it fast enough.
This meant that when I tried to shift to finger foods at 5.5/6 months, he was INCREDIBLY frustrated. He just wasn't getting the volume of food he needed and it certainly wasn't coming at a satisfactory speed. Cue screaming in frustration from a child who has basically never screamed about anything, which was of course very frustrating and distressing for me.
My solution for the last couple of months has been to offer some finger food along with a puree, and this has worked well. He loves the independence of feeding himself and gets great enjoyment out of holding a spoon (I now struggle to feed him without letting him hold one!) and has become really good at chewing and swallowing given his age.
Over the weekend, I noticed that W (now 7.5 months) was really into his finger food and actually managing to get quite a bit in. So today I tested him with some pasta, meatballs and fruit, and he managed to get enough in to be satisfied for a whole meal. H and I enjoyed watching him make a big mess and he kept looking over and laughing. The floor afterwards was interesting, but overall it was lots of fun and great to not be spoon feeding him.
 | ||
| Baby Sees Food... |
 | |||
| Baby Grabs Food... |
 |
| Baby Eats Food! Success. |
Z x
Monday, October 27, 2014
Takeaway with a side of Attitude
We are completely kitchen-less at the moment while we wait for work to begin on our new, improved, one million percent more functional kitchen. Everyone seems to feel quite sorry for me, and truly the house is a nightmare, but actually I see it as quite a convenient excuse not to cook. My main tip for getting by without a kitchen? Takeaway!
So far we've ordered in three nights, had one pub meal and another dinner cooked for us by our dear friend S. Tomorrow we have a babysitter lined up and the following night I'm out for dinner with the girls, woohoo! W is covered by some stuff I've frozen and H only eats about four things so we're getting by.
Meanwhile I was having a chuckle the other day when I came across the term "threenager", apparently coined to describe a three year old with the attitude and behaviours of a teenager. That is SO age three in our house, complete with eye rolling (!!), dramatic folding of the arms and an absolute air of authority on every issue.
"I can't have the green cup I NEVER have the green cup, the green cup is not my favourite I TOLD you," *eye roll, dramatic sigh, arms folded across the chest, pout*
I kind of feel like I did my time with H getting through that 18-30 months terrible two-ish period, and she is generally pretty well behaved now albeit still INSANELY headstrong. I mean I just don't think I've ever been as committed to anything as she is to, say, her inability to eat food that isn't yellow. But still, three is a funny age. Loving, kind, clever, hilarious. But SO. MUCH. ATTITUDE.
I am dreading the actual teenager years, where the attitude will be partnered with a general hatred of everyone and especially me. So I'll remain grateful for my little threenager for now!
Is this phenomenon confined to girls? Or can boys roll their eyes at three also?!
Z x
So far we've ordered in three nights, had one pub meal and another dinner cooked for us by our dear friend S. Tomorrow we have a babysitter lined up and the following night I'm out for dinner with the girls, woohoo! W is covered by some stuff I've frozen and H only eats about four things so we're getting by.
Meanwhile I was having a chuckle the other day when I came across the term "threenager", apparently coined to describe a three year old with the attitude and behaviours of a teenager. That is SO age three in our house, complete with eye rolling (!!), dramatic folding of the arms and an absolute air of authority on every issue.
"I can't have the green cup I NEVER have the green cup, the green cup is not my favourite I TOLD you," *eye roll, dramatic sigh, arms folded across the chest, pout*
 |
| Would you like a scowl with that? |
I kind of feel like I did my time with H getting through that 18-30 months terrible two-ish period, and she is generally pretty well behaved now albeit still INSANELY headstrong. I mean I just don't think I've ever been as committed to anything as she is to, say, her inability to eat food that isn't yellow. But still, three is a funny age. Loving, kind, clever, hilarious. But SO. MUCH. ATTITUDE.
I am dreading the actual teenager years, where the attitude will be partnered with a general hatred of everyone and especially me. So I'll remain grateful for my little threenager for now!
Is this phenomenon confined to girls? Or can boys roll their eyes at three also?!
Z x
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Whispers from the Universe
Do you ever feel like the universe is talking to you?
You know, like when something odd and coincidental happens (you think hard to remember the name of an old school friend, and run into them the following day), and then happens again, and then a whole lot of dominoes either line up or fall down and you think okay, what are you trying to tell me?
This has definitely been happening to me lately.
I've been tired because J has been travelling for work, and I've been lonely and stressed out. Small, strange coincidental things have been happening - I talked about someone I hadn't thought of in a long time, and the next day found out they were having a baby. My Dad and I struggled to remember the name of that former female premier and the next day Kristina Keneally was on a morning TV program. My Mum is looking after a patient at the moment who, almost 90 years ago, sat in a hospital bed next to my Grandmother as they were both treated for polio. She remembered my Mum's grandfather, who she never met, and told stories of him.
Yesterday morning, I opened all the blinds and windows in H's room, which is at the front of the house. At almost that exact moment, I heard a huge BANG from the street below. It sounded like an accident - I vaguely hoped no one had been hurt on the street. Of course, time proved it wasn't just any accident. It was the sound of someone running into my car, so hard that it needed to be towed. GIANT GROAN.
Meanwhile, some things are falling into place. Planets are aligning. Every day is full of annoying little setbacks but the big picture things are taking shape.
So yes, universe. I hear you. I see you. I know there are bigger things out there than just me and my relatively insignificant existence.
Just keep my car out of it next time!
Z x
You know, like when something odd and coincidental happens (you think hard to remember the name of an old school friend, and run into them the following day), and then happens again, and then a whole lot of dominoes either line up or fall down and you think okay, what are you trying to tell me?
This has definitely been happening to me lately.
I've been tired because J has been travelling for work, and I've been lonely and stressed out. Small, strange coincidental things have been happening - I talked about someone I hadn't thought of in a long time, and the next day found out they were having a baby. My Dad and I struggled to remember the name of that former female premier and the next day Kristina Keneally was on a morning TV program. My Mum is looking after a patient at the moment who, almost 90 years ago, sat in a hospital bed next to my Grandmother as they were both treated for polio. She remembered my Mum's grandfather, who she never met, and told stories of him.
Yesterday morning, I opened all the blinds and windows in H's room, which is at the front of the house. At almost that exact moment, I heard a huge BANG from the street below. It sounded like an accident - I vaguely hoped no one had been hurt on the street. Of course, time proved it wasn't just any accident. It was the sound of someone running into my car, so hard that it needed to be towed. GIANT GROAN.
Meanwhile, some things are falling into place. Planets are aligning. Every day is full of annoying little setbacks but the big picture things are taking shape.
So yes, universe. I hear you. I see you. I know there are bigger things out there than just me and my relatively insignificant existence.
Just keep my car out of it next time!
Z x
Thursday, October 2, 2014
A Really Good Day
I've come to understand that "witching hour" (which is not in fact an hour but generally the period just before dinner until bed time) is 90% responsible for all bad days.
Mornings are pretty nice in our house. Sadly W continues to wake at a completely inappropriate hour (sometimes pre 5am…) but one can easily recover from this injustice when he is at his morning-happiest, full of smiles and chatter. It's also good as he wakes at least an hour (sometimes two…sometimes three) before H, so you get to spend some alone time with him as well as enjoy a cup of tea, catch up on emails and the like.
Hearts can be heard sinking when H wakes up within an hour of W, but generally we get a good period of time to come to terms with the day before breakfast is demanded and the general three year old onslaught begins. Anyway, by the time she wakes up W is almost ready for his first nap which occurs daily from 8am-10am. This is always another easy period of the day with just one lucid child to care for, and usually said child follows me around pretending to be a princess/mermaid/ballerina while I do the morning chores and then we have a little play (I'm the shopkeeper…I'm always the shopkeeper).
Generally by the time W wakes up the house is tidy and we're all dressed and ready to head outside. Sometimes we'll go to the park or walk up to get groceries. Yesterday for example we walked to the tile shop to order tiles for the new kitchen (yes!) then all sat down to lunch at our local French cafe, which was VERY civilised if I do say so myself. I caught myself thinking what a LOVELY day we were having.
When we get home from our daily outing W has another nap and H and I apparently have a "rest time", which is almost never a rest time. Occasionally she pesters me enough that I let her watch TV. Usually there is more of the following me around/"helping" me while I get dinner on. Very, very rarely there is actually rest time.
By the afternoon, things begin to get fractious. H as mentioned has generally NOT had any rest time and is tired and whingey. She can't decide if she is hungry or bored. Something hurts, but she's not sure what. Meanwhile W has only recently dropped his third nap of the day so by 4pm he's also getting grumpy - but he won't nap. Suddenly at 4.45 the shit really hits the fan because oh, H IS hungry and WHERE'S HER DINNER? and W is also hungry, and really tired actually and Mummy has a headache.
But of course H doesn't want what's on the table for dinner, she wants the dinner she refused last night or will refuse tomorrow, and W is REALLY getting tired now and oh wait he might have a meltdown, let's get him in the bath but quick before he…oh yes he's peed on the bed. And H doesn't actually WANT a bath tonight Mummy she thinks she'll skip it and oh wow, today is a really crap day!
So now H is running away from me while I try to get her dressed and W has REALLY kicked off the screaming, which is really disconcerting as he rarely screams…just at 5.50pm every night when we're in this exact predicament.
And just as I'm cursing J for NEVER being home at this time and cursing everyone ever for simply existing, things are suddenly calmer. W is guzzling a bottle and drifting off. H is dressed and picking out books for us to read. And I listen to her happy, ridiculous chatter and look down at my tired, perfect baby boy and am finally able to reflect that today, like most, has been a really good day.
Z x
Mornings are pretty nice in our house. Sadly W continues to wake at a completely inappropriate hour (sometimes pre 5am…) but one can easily recover from this injustice when he is at his morning-happiest, full of smiles and chatter. It's also good as he wakes at least an hour (sometimes two…sometimes three) before H, so you get to spend some alone time with him as well as enjoy a cup of tea, catch up on emails and the like.
Hearts can be heard sinking when H wakes up within an hour of W, but generally we get a good period of time to come to terms with the day before breakfast is demanded and the general three year old onslaught begins. Anyway, by the time she wakes up W is almost ready for his first nap which occurs daily from 8am-10am. This is always another easy period of the day with just one lucid child to care for, and usually said child follows me around pretending to be a princess/mermaid/ballerina while I do the morning chores and then we have a little play (I'm the shopkeeper…I'm always the shopkeeper).
Generally by the time W wakes up the house is tidy and we're all dressed and ready to head outside. Sometimes we'll go to the park or walk up to get groceries. Yesterday for example we walked to the tile shop to order tiles for the new kitchen (yes!) then all sat down to lunch at our local French cafe, which was VERY civilised if I do say so myself. I caught myself thinking what a LOVELY day we were having.
When we get home from our daily outing W has another nap and H and I apparently have a "rest time", which is almost never a rest time. Occasionally she pesters me enough that I let her watch TV. Usually there is more of the following me around/"helping" me while I get dinner on. Very, very rarely there is actually rest time.
By the afternoon, things begin to get fractious. H as mentioned has generally NOT had any rest time and is tired and whingey. She can't decide if she is hungry or bored. Something hurts, but she's not sure what. Meanwhile W has only recently dropped his third nap of the day so by 4pm he's also getting grumpy - but he won't nap. Suddenly at 4.45 the shit really hits the fan because oh, H IS hungry and WHERE'S HER DINNER? and W is also hungry, and really tired actually and Mummy has a headache.
But of course H doesn't want what's on the table for dinner, she wants the dinner she refused last night or will refuse tomorrow, and W is REALLY getting tired now and oh wait he might have a meltdown, let's get him in the bath but quick before he…oh yes he's peed on the bed. And H doesn't actually WANT a bath tonight Mummy she thinks she'll skip it and oh wow, today is a really crap day!
So now H is running away from me while I try to get her dressed and W has REALLY kicked off the screaming, which is really disconcerting as he rarely screams…just at 5.50pm every night when we're in this exact predicament.
And just as I'm cursing J for NEVER being home at this time and cursing everyone ever for simply existing, things are suddenly calmer. W is guzzling a bottle and drifting off. H is dressed and picking out books for us to read. And I listen to her happy, ridiculous chatter and look down at my tired, perfect baby boy and am finally able to reflect that today, like most, has been a really good day.
Z x
Friday, September 19, 2014
It's Moments Like These You Need...
Chocolate.
Yes, chocolate fixes all problems. Those who know me will know I am a total cliche. A woman who loves chocolate. Chocolate is my vice, my addiction, my kryptonite. In fact I believe chocolate is single handedly responsible for keeping me about three kilos above skinny for pretty much my entire adult life. That extra bit of chub is all down to chocolate, and it's so worth it, for I could not live without it.
These days it's a special treat for me to have chocolate with less than a 70% cocoa content. My addiction is so bad that I've had to retrain my tastes, so that anything too sugary just tastes wrong (except when I've had a few wines, and I'd do anything for a block of Cadbury peppermint...).
Anyway, my poison of choice is Lindor 70% Cocoa, and I buy a block every time I'm at the shops, at least so often that I've not yet been able to use the "Confectionary Free Check Out" (yes, this exists at my local Woolworths).
Recently I discovered a new type of Lindt chocolate block. It's "extra dark" (60% cocoa - stop the press!) and filled with something gooey that makes it, and I quote, "highly meltable". Also highly freaking amazing. See picture below, and take note as you will want to get yourself some:
To get you inspired, I've taken a leaf from Minties' book and compiled a list entitled It's Moments Like These You Need Lindor:
- Both kids are sleeping. Double fist pump! Sit down and enjoy some Lindor.
- Neither child is sleeping. Both are being loud and stressful. Hide somewhere they won't find you and enjoy some Lindor.
- Friends are over. Break out the Lindor.
- You're alone. And lonely. Let Lindor be your friend.
- Your child has just done a wee next to the potty. Break off a piece of Lindor.
- It's 7pm and your husband has just text to let you know he's still in the office...on a call...Lindor.
You get the picture. Any time is Lindor time.
Enjoy!
*Sponsored by Lindor
**I wish!
Z x
Yes, chocolate fixes all problems. Those who know me will know I am a total cliche. A woman who loves chocolate. Chocolate is my vice, my addiction, my kryptonite. In fact I believe chocolate is single handedly responsible for keeping me about three kilos above skinny for pretty much my entire adult life. That extra bit of chub is all down to chocolate, and it's so worth it, for I could not live without it.
These days it's a special treat for me to have chocolate with less than a 70% cocoa content. My addiction is so bad that I've had to retrain my tastes, so that anything too sugary just tastes wrong (except when I've had a few wines, and I'd do anything for a block of Cadbury peppermint...).
Anyway, my poison of choice is Lindor 70% Cocoa, and I buy a block every time I'm at the shops, at least so often that I've not yet been able to use the "Confectionary Free Check Out" (yes, this exists at my local Woolworths).
Recently I discovered a new type of Lindt chocolate block. It's "extra dark" (60% cocoa - stop the press!) and filled with something gooey that makes it, and I quote, "highly meltable". Also highly freaking amazing. See picture below, and take note as you will want to get yourself some:
To get you inspired, I've taken a leaf from Minties' book and compiled a list entitled It's Moments Like These You Need Lindor:
- Both kids are sleeping. Double fist pump! Sit down and enjoy some Lindor.
- Neither child is sleeping. Both are being loud and stressful. Hide somewhere they won't find you and enjoy some Lindor.
- Friends are over. Break out the Lindor.
- You're alone. And lonely. Let Lindor be your friend.
- Your child has just done a wee next to the potty. Break off a piece of Lindor.
- It's 7pm and your husband has just text to let you know he's still in the office...on a call...Lindor.
You get the picture. Any time is Lindor time.
Enjoy!
*Sponsored by Lindor
**I wish!
Z x
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Baby Steps
My little boy is six months old tomorrow (sob!). He is just perfection in every way. We're all head over heels for him.
I've sort of taken the "less is more" approach to parenting when it comes to little W. Probably for a number of reasons. Firstly, I don't have a lot of time to fuss over him. Secondly, he doesn't need a lot - he is an extremely uncomplicated baby. Finally, I've tried to follow the Gerber technique of respectful parenting, albeit pretty loosely.
I came across Magda Gerber's philosophies while reading Janet Lansbury's amazing parenting blog. The blog I stumbled upon while looking for positive discipline techniques when it became obvious I had a strong minded toddler on my hands. It appealed to me not only for its respectful and gentle approach to parenting but its similarities with Montessori philosophy.
It's hard for me to articulate and explain exactly what I mean by respectful parenting but Janet explains it really well in her blog here. A huge part of it that resonated with me was allowing babies to play independently and observing them closely, as well as letting them develop and learn at their own pace. So, for example, no forcing to roll over, propping up to sitting positions, training them to stand and so forth. Letting them get there in their own time.
I don't know if it's because W is my baby, possibly my last (possibly) or because of everything I learnt the first time around, but I am completely happy to let him just BE for as long as possible. To be a tiny baby. To lay on the ground and babble. To sleep by our bed every night.
Suddenly, "milestones" are so unimportant to me. Sleeping through the night? He does, but not always. And it genuinely doesn't bother me when he wakes up. I give him a cuddle or a feed and go back to bed. Crawling? I can see that he wants to crawl, which is frustrating to him. I could prop him onto his knees, just once. But I don't, because I see the progress he is making every day to get there by himself. And how proud he, and I, will be when he does!
I have a three year old who is quite dependent, who I created by fussing over to the extreme. Through my learning and our continued involvement in Montessori education, we are getting there. But I think a combination of her personality and my early over-stimulation and over-pandering of her will mean she is always a little more needy (although still perfect, in my eyes).
So for now, we are moving forward with baby steps. One day at a time.
Z x
I've sort of taken the "less is more" approach to parenting when it comes to little W. Probably for a number of reasons. Firstly, I don't have a lot of time to fuss over him. Secondly, he doesn't need a lot - he is an extremely uncomplicated baby. Finally, I've tried to follow the Gerber technique of respectful parenting, albeit pretty loosely.
I came across Magda Gerber's philosophies while reading Janet Lansbury's amazing parenting blog. The blog I stumbled upon while looking for positive discipline techniques when it became obvious I had a strong minded toddler on my hands. It appealed to me not only for its respectful and gentle approach to parenting but its similarities with Montessori philosophy.
It's hard for me to articulate and explain exactly what I mean by respectful parenting but Janet explains it really well in her blog here. A huge part of it that resonated with me was allowing babies to play independently and observing them closely, as well as letting them develop and learn at their own pace. So, for example, no forcing to roll over, propping up to sitting positions, training them to stand and so forth. Letting them get there in their own time.
I don't know if it's because W is my baby, possibly my last (possibly) or because of everything I learnt the first time around, but I am completely happy to let him just BE for as long as possible. To be a tiny baby. To lay on the ground and babble. To sleep by our bed every night.
Suddenly, "milestones" are so unimportant to me. Sleeping through the night? He does, but not always. And it genuinely doesn't bother me when he wakes up. I give him a cuddle or a feed and go back to bed. Crawling? I can see that he wants to crawl, which is frustrating to him. I could prop him onto his knees, just once. But I don't, because I see the progress he is making every day to get there by himself. And how proud he, and I, will be when he does!
I have a three year old who is quite dependent, who I created by fussing over to the extreme. Through my learning and our continued involvement in Montessori education, we are getting there. But I think a combination of her personality and my early over-stimulation and over-pandering of her will mean she is always a little more needy (although still perfect, in my eyes).
So for now, we are moving forward with baby steps. One day at a time.
Z x
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Gratitude
When you're home all day with two small children it can be easy to lose sight of the big picture. Especially when your three year old is pulling all the utensils out of the kitchen drawers and naming them "Love" and "Oven", while the six month old…well okay, he's pretty perfect. But he needs caring for while all the utensil naming is going on. Meanwhile you're bored, and lonely, and would quite like to be having a wine somewhere glamorous with adult people.
So you wish for some time alone and some time out. And maybe feel a little sorry for yourself, because you're stupid like that.
At the beginning of the month, disaster struck our little suburb. A fire lit up a shop and the apartments above, and three people died - a 27 year old man and his neighbours, a 31 year old mother and her 12 month old baby boy.
This was just a few hundred metres from my house, and has affected me and our community greatly. Not a single person here has been untouched by it - people are talking about it everywhere you go, and meanwhile there is a gaping hole where three buildings are missing on the main street. Even J, who is less emotional and current affairs obsessed than I, was compulsively watching the news and thinking about it for days, imagining being that father left behind.
It's difficult to watch the community that's so embraced and welcomed us struggle - this is the kind of place where you can make a great friend by simply chatting to someone at the playground, the coffee shop. You talk to your neighbours. You know all the business owners, many of whom have been shut down for weeks.
Today was the funeral of the woman and baby who died. We were running errands up the road and I wondered at the amount of people, the news cameras, the black…and then I realised. I felt so sick. That baby…that mother. Were they scared? I hope not. Tonight, I read about it online. Mother and baby, buried in the casket together. Where they were happiest.
And I cried, and cried, and cried.
Every day we get to spend with the people we love is an absolute blessing. The days can be long, but the weeks are short and painfully finite. So I am reminded to be so, so grateful. And tomorrow, I will sit on the kitchen floor and name utensils, while I can.
Z xx
So you wish for some time alone and some time out. And maybe feel a little sorry for yourself, because you're stupid like that.
At the beginning of the month, disaster struck our little suburb. A fire lit up a shop and the apartments above, and three people died - a 27 year old man and his neighbours, a 31 year old mother and her 12 month old baby boy.
This was just a few hundred metres from my house, and has affected me and our community greatly. Not a single person here has been untouched by it - people are talking about it everywhere you go, and meanwhile there is a gaping hole where three buildings are missing on the main street. Even J, who is less emotional and current affairs obsessed than I, was compulsively watching the news and thinking about it for days, imagining being that father left behind.
It's difficult to watch the community that's so embraced and welcomed us struggle - this is the kind of place where you can make a great friend by simply chatting to someone at the playground, the coffee shop. You talk to your neighbours. You know all the business owners, many of whom have been shut down for weeks.
Today was the funeral of the woman and baby who died. We were running errands up the road and I wondered at the amount of people, the news cameras, the black…and then I realised. I felt so sick. That baby…that mother. Were they scared? I hope not. Tonight, I read about it online. Mother and baby, buried in the casket together. Where they were happiest.
And I cried, and cried, and cried.
Every day we get to spend with the people we love is an absolute blessing. The days can be long, but the weeks are short and painfully finite. So I am reminded to be so, so grateful. And tomorrow, I will sit on the kitchen floor and name utensils, while I can.
Z xx
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Brothers & Sisters
I've been feeling increasingly inspired to return to blogging lately and then this morning, BAM! I HAD to write. I love these moments - there's no faffing about, wondering what you'll write about or how you'll find the time. You just have to do it.
The nature of siblings has been on my mind a lot lately as I watch my two interact more and more. Really, no one is closer to you, genetically or otherwise - not only do you share the same DNA, you share a history, a story.
My brother and I were just 17 months apart, he the younger, and by all accounts never had a fight in our lives. I certainly don't remember any. We are complete opposites, which I think accounts for our getting on - I am loud and confident and talkative but also in many ways a thinker and an observer, whereas he is quieter but just gets on with things. More of a doer. We also have a sister but she's quite a bit younger than us, the baby and in many ways equaliser of the family - probably we are both closer to her than we are to each other, in adulthood. Oh and trust me, we both fought with her!
My brother and I got up to all sorts of mischief as little children and apparently drove my Mum quite mad. She recounts stories of getting us dressed up for a day out and returning home in tears vowing to never do it again.
When we were older we worked in the same pizza shop and carpooled to and from work. One night we were driving up our street, very late, when we spotted a large mass on the road - someone had placed a large block of cement right in the middle of the street. Teenagers probably, like us but stupider. Had we hit it in my old car it could have killed us. But as we pulled over to move it, a car came speeding up behind us, our neighbour's. We frantically started beeping the horn, my brother running into the street, but they hit it with an almighty bang. My parents ran out thinking it was us. No one was badly hurt but the car was completely written off, and the night is etched in both of our memories.
These days I don't see him much, him being the quiet person he is and the kind of guy who is probably more inclined to spend weekends with his girlfriend's family than his own. Like most men I guess. But I feel incredibly proud and protective of him, worry for him and stalk his Facebook posts. Normal big sister behaviour. Having had the privilege of having both a brother and a sister, I feel there is a completely different relationship between a woman and her sister to that between she and her brother - at least in my experience.
So here's to brothers - mine and my daughter's, our sweet little ray of sunshine who she finally happily plays with and is less inclined to try to smother...
Z xx
The nature of siblings has been on my mind a lot lately as I watch my two interact more and more. Really, no one is closer to you, genetically or otherwise - not only do you share the same DNA, you share a history, a story.
My brother and I were just 17 months apart, he the younger, and by all accounts never had a fight in our lives. I certainly don't remember any. We are complete opposites, which I think accounts for our getting on - I am loud and confident and talkative but also in many ways a thinker and an observer, whereas he is quieter but just gets on with things. More of a doer. We also have a sister but she's quite a bit younger than us, the baby and in many ways equaliser of the family - probably we are both closer to her than we are to each other, in adulthood. Oh and trust me, we both fought with her!
My brother and I got up to all sorts of mischief as little children and apparently drove my Mum quite mad. She recounts stories of getting us dressed up for a day out and returning home in tears vowing to never do it again.
When we were older we worked in the same pizza shop and carpooled to and from work. One night we were driving up our street, very late, when we spotted a large mass on the road - someone had placed a large block of cement right in the middle of the street. Teenagers probably, like us but stupider. Had we hit it in my old car it could have killed us. But as we pulled over to move it, a car came speeding up behind us, our neighbour's. We frantically started beeping the horn, my brother running into the street, but they hit it with an almighty bang. My parents ran out thinking it was us. No one was badly hurt but the car was completely written off, and the night is etched in both of our memories.
These days I don't see him much, him being the quiet person he is and the kind of guy who is probably more inclined to spend weekends with his girlfriend's family than his own. Like most men I guess. But I feel incredibly proud and protective of him, worry for him and stalk his Facebook posts. Normal big sister behaviour. Having had the privilege of having both a brother and a sister, I feel there is a completely different relationship between a woman and her sister to that between she and her brother - at least in my experience.
So here's to brothers - mine and my daughter's, our sweet little ray of sunshine who she finally happily plays with and is less inclined to try to smother...
Z xx
Friday, June 13, 2014
Yawn!
Saw this on Facebook the other day and chuckled:
Lots of people talk about parenting being "hard" which I don't think it is, really. There's nothing particularly difficult about it. But it is challenging, mind numbing, infuriating, joyous, funny and mentally and physically tiring.
I've been feeling pretty good about how I'm coping with my two bundles, considering the horror stories I was told about having two children.
But I am really, really tired. So tired, in fact, that I bought a pregnancy test last weekend! Which was horrifying for a number of reasons, not least the fact that on the list of "Things I Want To Happen Right Now", Get Pregnant absolutely does not feature. Anyway, crisis averted, I realised I am actually just exhausted.
Parenting is an active job. J is wearing a pedometer at the moment, aiming to reach at least 10,000 steps a day for a work challenge. On office days where he doesn't fit in exercise, he really struggles to meet his target, in fact one day he clocked as low as 2,500! I couldn't wait for his first full day at home with the kids to see how that measured up, and I wasn't disappointed - he did 12,500 steps.
It's physical. My muscles are sore from lifting kids ALL day. My back aches. And I only have two of them! How my mother in law and grandmother had seven is actually beyond me.
But what I find more trying is how mentally exhausting it is. It is at times mind numbingly boring, and you can actually feel the brain cells dropping off. At other times you are in a futile battle with a toddler over getting dressed and your newborn is overtired and screaming and you feel as if your brain may explode out of your ears. Then there are the 100,000 things you need to organise and remember, the dates and grocery lists and information that need to be stored inside your otherwise under-utilised brain.
I'm not whinging! I love it and never want to do anything else. I'm just tired.
Z x
Lots of people talk about parenting being "hard" which I don't think it is, really. There's nothing particularly difficult about it. But it is challenging, mind numbing, infuriating, joyous, funny and mentally and physically tiring.
I've been feeling pretty good about how I'm coping with my two bundles, considering the horror stories I was told about having two children.
But I am really, really tired. So tired, in fact, that I bought a pregnancy test last weekend! Which was horrifying for a number of reasons, not least the fact that on the list of "Things I Want To Happen Right Now", Get Pregnant absolutely does not feature. Anyway, crisis averted, I realised I am actually just exhausted.
Parenting is an active job. J is wearing a pedometer at the moment, aiming to reach at least 10,000 steps a day for a work challenge. On office days where he doesn't fit in exercise, he really struggles to meet his target, in fact one day he clocked as low as 2,500! I couldn't wait for his first full day at home with the kids to see how that measured up, and I wasn't disappointed - he did 12,500 steps.
It's physical. My muscles are sore from lifting kids ALL day. My back aches. And I only have two of them! How my mother in law and grandmother had seven is actually beyond me.
But what I find more trying is how mentally exhausting it is. It is at times mind numbingly boring, and you can actually feel the brain cells dropping off. At other times you are in a futile battle with a toddler over getting dressed and your newborn is overtired and screaming and you feel as if your brain may explode out of your ears. Then there are the 100,000 things you need to organise and remember, the dates and grocery lists and information that need to be stored inside your otherwise under-utilised brain.
I'm not whinging! I love it and never want to do anything else. I'm just tired.
Z x
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Buddhism and Desire
Years ago I was given a book as a gift, 1000 Quotes of Buddhist Wisdom. It was one of those things that was nice to receive but never really appreciated, sitting on my bookshelf unread amongst travel guides and books on the art of illustration.
Recently I cleaned out my bookshelves and had a HUGE purge, sick of books I've read once and am never going to read again collecting dust when they could be appreciated by others. So I came across this book and, given that I'd had a stressful morning, decided to flick through in the hope of finding something inspiring, which I did. A few things actually.
And so it happened that I now go to this book every now and then, generally when I'm on the verge of a breakdown because it's 11am and I'm still in my pyjamas and I've had no personal space for 48 hours, to find something to calm me. Perspective, I believe it's called.
Something that other more spiritual folk than I may know is that a huge element of Buddhism is the elimination of desire, which is essentially viewed as the root of all unhappiness. Which makes sense, of course - if we want for nothing, we are truly at peace and happy. Which got me thinking about how materialistic I am, and how much I desire. The current list includes:
- Three separate pairs of black boots
- A new lounge and dining table
- To shop the 30% sale on an amazing Swedish kids website
- Some Country Road picture frames
- Anything that pops up in my inbox on sale, which is a lot at this time of year
The dining table in particular has been an item of obsession. I saw it months ago and gradually convinced J that we needed it, even plotting what I could sell to afford it and almost daily going online to fawn over it. I've actually laid in bed visualising our dining area with it and a large artwork I'm having framed, just feeling excited. Which is really sad and depressing now that I write it down.
Because will the acquisition of said dining table actually make me happy? No. It will be really satisfying and make life easier. But it won't make me happy. I will just want something else, because that is who I am and the world I live in.
SO, I am taking time off from desire! Every time I covet something, I am going to remind myself of what I have. Every time I envy another person, I am going to remind myself that having what they have will not increase my own happiness. And only appreciating and savouring what I do have will.
NAMASTE!
p.s. I'm still buying the dining table.
Z x
Recently I cleaned out my bookshelves and had a HUGE purge, sick of books I've read once and am never going to read again collecting dust when they could be appreciated by others. So I came across this book and, given that I'd had a stressful morning, decided to flick through in the hope of finding something inspiring, which I did. A few things actually.
And so it happened that I now go to this book every now and then, generally when I'm on the verge of a breakdown because it's 11am and I'm still in my pyjamas and I've had no personal space for 48 hours, to find something to calm me. Perspective, I believe it's called.
Something that other more spiritual folk than I may know is that a huge element of Buddhism is the elimination of desire, which is essentially viewed as the root of all unhappiness. Which makes sense, of course - if we want for nothing, we are truly at peace and happy. Which got me thinking about how materialistic I am, and how much I desire. The current list includes:
- Three separate pairs of black boots
- A new lounge and dining table
- To shop the 30% sale on an amazing Swedish kids website
- Some Country Road picture frames
- Anything that pops up in my inbox on sale, which is a lot at this time of year
The dining table in particular has been an item of obsession. I saw it months ago and gradually convinced J that we needed it, even plotting what I could sell to afford it and almost daily going online to fawn over it. I've actually laid in bed visualising our dining area with it and a large artwork I'm having framed, just feeling excited. Which is really sad and depressing now that I write it down.
Because will the acquisition of said dining table actually make me happy? No. It will be really satisfying and make life easier. But it won't make me happy. I will just want something else, because that is who I am and the world I live in.
SO, I am taking time off from desire! Every time I covet something, I am going to remind myself of what I have. Every time I envy another person, I am going to remind myself that having what they have will not increase my own happiness. And only appreciating and savouring what I do have will.
NAMASTE!
p.s. I'm still buying the dining table.
Z x
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Walter
Well, it has been ages, but I've been busy with this little guy!
Little Walter, or W as he shall be known here, came into our lives on 19th March and has brought us nothing but joy. We feel very lucky.
Life with two kids has its moments but is generally amazing! Hopefully as life continues to get less hectic, blogging will become more regular.
Z xx
 |
| Baby Walter at 3 days old |
 |
| Today, at nine weeks old |
Little Walter, or W as he shall be known here, came into our lives on 19th March and has brought us nothing but joy. We feel very lucky.
Life with two kids has its moments but is generally amazing! Hopefully as life continues to get less hectic, blogging will become more regular.
Z xx
Friday, March 14, 2014
Two And A Half Years
My big girl hit the two-and-a-half milestone this week, and she is just the best.
This is my favourite age so far, by far. Having a little person around to tell me all about how the world works, in her extremely educated opinion, and kiss my ouchies better and laugh at my lamest gags is pretty special. And I am trying to savour every moment as both she and I eagerly await the arrival of a new little person who is expected any minute and who will no doubt turn our lives upside down.
Looking back to even six months ago, it is hard to believe how much she has grown, changed and developed. And yet remained the same funny, headstrong, bold little person she will probably always be. I'm acutely and somewhat sadly aware that in another six months I will look back to now and be equally shocked at how much has changed. H will be a fully fledged three year old, and there will be another tiny person with whom I'm as intimately acquainted and deeply in love as her. Hard to believe.
So, here is my reminder of now - of how lovely it was to know my girl at 2.5, to spend every day with her, to enjoy so much time with just the two of us. To laugh and giggle every day, to spend at least half our time pretending to be mermaids or princesses. To high five after a successful trip to the toilet. To clean up innumerable accidents. Even to fight every single morning about getting dressed.
Times are about to change and we are going to love it. But here's to now.
Z x
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Sugar Free Lactation Cookies from Sugar Free Kids
Ah, I am so exhausted today! I didn't have to work so decided to take a me day and do pretty much nothing, aside from a few errands. I was having a lie down and *almost* asleep earlier when my phone rang - my physio checking if I was coming to Pilates. Nope, not coming. Not sleeping either.
Oh well, at least I have managed to achieve a few things, one of them being trying out a recipe from Sugar Free Kids. Sugar Free Kids is the brain child of Sha, a Melbourne Mum and insulin dependent diabetic who has long seen the benefits of leading a sugar free lifestyle. If only I were as motivated and talented in the kitchen as her, perhaps I would adopt the same approach! Nevertheless, her recipes are AMAZING and great for those weeks when I'm organised enough to prepare snacks instead of pre-buying.
This recipe for lactation cookies is a little fiddly but well worth it. They taste amazing and make a HUGE batch, which I've frozen in preparation for upcoming breastfeeding. Sha recommends eating at least three cookies per day to assist breast milk production, and quite a few of the comments on her blog suggest the cookies work. I'll be sure to let you know my own experience - although my lactation consultant has already stocked me up on Fenugreek tablets and Motilium, the lactation cookies will be packed in my hospital bag and the first thing I try to get the milk flowing naturally.
Here is a copy of the recipe if you don't have time to visit the site:
Ingredients:
Oats - 2 cups (Organic is best, you can also buy GF oats if required)
Instructions:
Mine turned out a little weird looking due to my lack of patience rolling into balls, so I haven't bothered with pictures! They still taste great and all the ingredients are there. Hopefully yours will look more like Sha's...
Z x
Oh well, at least I have managed to achieve a few things, one of them being trying out a recipe from Sugar Free Kids. Sugar Free Kids is the brain child of Sha, a Melbourne Mum and insulin dependent diabetic who has long seen the benefits of leading a sugar free lifestyle. If only I were as motivated and talented in the kitchen as her, perhaps I would adopt the same approach! Nevertheless, her recipes are AMAZING and great for those weeks when I'm organised enough to prepare snacks instead of pre-buying.
This recipe for lactation cookies is a little fiddly but well worth it. They taste amazing and make a HUGE batch, which I've frozen in preparation for upcoming breastfeeding. Sha recommends eating at least three cookies per day to assist breast milk production, and quite a few of the comments on her blog suggest the cookies work. I'll be sure to let you know my own experience - although my lactation consultant has already stocked me up on Fenugreek tablets and Motilium, the lactation cookies will be packed in my hospital bag and the first thing I try to get the milk flowing naturally.
Here is a copy of the recipe if you don't have time to visit the site:
Ingredients:
Oats - 2 cups (Organic is best, you can also buy GF oats if required)
Instructions:
- 1) Precook your quinoa
- 2) Soak your chopped dried fruit
- 3) Preheat oven to 180C
- 4) Line 3 baking trays with grease proof paper (if you only have 1 or 2, no problem to do batches)
- 5) Put the Sunflower seeds (or nuts) in processor and blitz on high until desired consistency (I like a flour like texture, but you can have more chunky)
- 6) Add the rolled oats and process further til desired texture for both. Set the sunflower and oat meal aside
- 7) Add butter and / or coconut oil (1/2 cup in total), molasses, natvia and rice syrup to processor and process on medium until the sweeteners have dissolved into the butters, you will need to scrape the sides back down a few times
- 8) Add eggs (or chia gel) one at a time process to incorporate
- 9) Add vanilla, tahini (or nut butter), cinnamon, salt, baking soda, brewer's yeast, flax meal, cooked quinoa and process on medium high to combine well, scraping down sides if needed
- 10) Add chopped fig or apricot and combine
- 11) Leave the processor running on a slow speed and very slowly pour in the oat and sunflower meal until you have a doughy dense batter
- 12) Have a bowl of water ready to keep your hands wet when making the balls, the dough is too sticky and you'll need wet hands
- 13) Make small balls, about 2cm diameter and flatten them onto your trays. Press on some Almond flakes or sesame seeds or coconut
- 14) Place in oven for 15 - 20 minutes until golden brown
- The cookies will rise slightly and come out chewy, for crunchier make them smaller and bake longer
- Repeat if you only have one tray (it takes about 10 minutes to prepare a tray of balls so you can bake while making the next batch)
- Leave to cool on a wire rack. Store in air tight container
- Being such a big batch, it is perfect to share with your mother's group or freeze some for later
Mine turned out a little weird looking due to my lack of patience rolling into balls, so I haven't bothered with pictures! They still taste great and all the ingredients are there. Hopefully yours will look more like Sha's...
Z x
Monday, February 17, 2014
Toddler Nap Time
One of the downfalls of having a consistently amazing night sleeper is that H has always been a reluctant daytime napper. Not terrible, as she usually always goes to sleep and sleeps well, but it can often be a fight, and she always dropped naps too early (the third nap at four months and the second nap at eleven months) which means we've had our fair share of difficult dinner and bath times.
Recently, H has started refusing to go down for her daytime nap, but only on certain days - namely, the days she is home with me! Luckily she does get around 12 hours of sleep at night so she isn't too difficult on these days, but there are a number of reasons I feel she still really needs her nap:
- She is clearly tired, rubbing her eyes and yawning some days as early as 11am.
- She will fall asleep if we get in the car after 3pm and she hasn't napped.
- On the occasions she does sleep, she can sleep for up to three hours if unwoken, and;
- She is not yet (quite) 2.5, which according to all research I've done is still much too young to give up a nap completely.
I've been going out of my mind a little trying to get her to nap. On Friday I was certain she would drift off in the car after a big morning at the zoo, but no, she was wide awake and asking for a movie the second we got home!
Today, I decided vigilance was the only answer. H woke up today with a runny nose and has been yawning all morning so I was confident tiredness wasn't an issue. She dirtied her nappy right before bed and had eaten a big lunch so everything was as it should be. We read stories and I used a trick they taught me at daycare - telling her if she wasn't asleep when I came back I would take her bunny away! Mean I know!
Anyway, twenty minutes later she was still calling out to me and I decided I'd had enough. I went into her room and took bunny, but then when she lay down I stroked her forehead and "shushed" for a minute just as I used to do when she was a baby. Immediately her eyelids started drooping. Aha! She was tired! So I went with it and within five minutes she was sound asleep.
So, clearly, I have forgotten in the space of a couple of years that sometimes all it takes is a little bit of comforting for a child to fall asleep. Maybe, just maybe, that is all she needed to get back in the rhythm of napping at home. More likely she will expect me to stroke and shush her every DAY but hey, I would rather that than no napping - at least until baby arrives in four weeks. Then we could have problems...
Interestingly, when I was madly researching toddler napping most sources maintained children need to nap until they are at least FOUR, at which point they can transition to quiet time in their rooms. Both J and I can remember having quiet time until into our tweens, which I think is a great idea for children and parents!
I also stumbled upon a good sleep site, The Sleep Lady - she essentially tries to sign you up to her website to access her "sleep solutions" which I guess isn't much different to purchasing a book (as I've mentioned before, I followed Tizzie Hall's routines and intend on doing so again) but her blog has some really useful tips! For example I read that for newborns the morning nap doesn't properly establish until 12 weeks and the afternoon nap and early waking are the last things to fall into place, which is information that could have saved me tens of hours unsuccessfully resettling an 8-week-old H.
Now, I'm off to do absolutely nothing while my child SLEEPS!
Z x
Recently, H has started refusing to go down for her daytime nap, but only on certain days - namely, the days she is home with me! Luckily she does get around 12 hours of sleep at night so she isn't too difficult on these days, but there are a number of reasons I feel she still really needs her nap:
- She is clearly tired, rubbing her eyes and yawning some days as early as 11am.
- She will fall asleep if we get in the car after 3pm and she hasn't napped.
- On the occasions she does sleep, she can sleep for up to three hours if unwoken, and;
- She is not yet (quite) 2.5, which according to all research I've done is still much too young to give up a nap completely.
I've been going out of my mind a little trying to get her to nap. On Friday I was certain she would drift off in the car after a big morning at the zoo, but no, she was wide awake and asking for a movie the second we got home!
Today, I decided vigilance was the only answer. H woke up today with a runny nose and has been yawning all morning so I was confident tiredness wasn't an issue. She dirtied her nappy right before bed and had eaten a big lunch so everything was as it should be. We read stories and I used a trick they taught me at daycare - telling her if she wasn't asleep when I came back I would take her bunny away! Mean I know!
Anyway, twenty minutes later she was still calling out to me and I decided I'd had enough. I went into her room and took bunny, but then when she lay down I stroked her forehead and "shushed" for a minute just as I used to do when she was a baby. Immediately her eyelids started drooping. Aha! She was tired! So I went with it and within five minutes she was sound asleep.
So, clearly, I have forgotten in the space of a couple of years that sometimes all it takes is a little bit of comforting for a child to fall asleep. Maybe, just maybe, that is all she needed to get back in the rhythm of napping at home. More likely she will expect me to stroke and shush her every DAY but hey, I would rather that than no napping - at least until baby arrives in four weeks. Then we could have problems...
Interestingly, when I was madly researching toddler napping most sources maintained children need to nap until they are at least FOUR, at which point they can transition to quiet time in their rooms. Both J and I can remember having quiet time until into our tweens, which I think is a great idea for children and parents!
I also stumbled upon a good sleep site, The Sleep Lady - she essentially tries to sign you up to her website to access her "sleep solutions" which I guess isn't much different to purchasing a book (as I've mentioned before, I followed Tizzie Hall's routines and intend on doing so again) but her blog has some really useful tips! For example I read that for newborns the morning nap doesn't properly establish until 12 weeks and the afternoon nap and early waking are the last things to fall into place, which is information that could have saved me tens of hours unsuccessfully resettling an 8-week-old H.
Now, I'm off to do absolutely nothing while my child SLEEPS!
Z x
Friday, February 7, 2014
Managing Pregnancy Pelvic Pain
When I was pregnant with H I suffered from debilitating pelvic pain from about 18 or 19 weeks. It was more painful than you'd imagine if you hadn't experienced it, but the help of a good physio and great pilates got me through to the end.
This time around, I really wanted to avoid what happened the first time and enrolled in pilates with a physio fairly early in the pregnancy. I've had the odd niggle in my pelvis but most of my pain has been in my upper back this time around, until this week.
On Sunday I went for a long walk and could feel that things were sensitive when I got home. I bent to take off my sock and, ping, something went on me in the glute/pelvis area. I've suffered with it all week until last night, true disaster struck. All it took was sitting on the lounge the wrong way, and it felt like something collapsed in my pelvis. It was so painful I cried out and then started sobbing when I couldn't move out of the one position, which had J running in thinking I was in labour! I had to see a physio, stat.
So, I saw a physio today (not my usual as I couldn't get in) and feel amazing and was inspired to write my top tips for managing pregnancy pelvic pain, just in case anyone else is struggling and wants some immediate advice.
Anyway, in my experience:
1) Physio, physio, physio. Not chiro. Physio! Find a great women's health physio and book in ASAP - they are amazing. Every physio I've ever met is really passionate about what they do and practices what they preach. Most physios will evaluate the problem and do some kind of work on the area (crazy painful but amazing massages) and put a treatment plan in place.
2) Start being really aware of putting weight on one particular leg. Sit down to put jeans on, sit down to shave your legs. Long walks and strokes like breaststroke can put unnecessary pressure on your pelvis.
3) Pregnancy pilates. If possible, do this in a class run by a physio, or even one on one with a physio, who can tailor exercises specifically to your condition. As always, prevention is the best cure - I would recommend that any newly pregnant woman enroll in some kind of pregnancy specific exercise class, but am pretty biased towards pilates because it's really helped me both times.
4) Invest in a pelvic support belt. I found this provided me with so much added support and, in turn, comfort. If possible, borrow one from a friend and take it along to your physio. Physios do say not to use one prior to assessment as you may not need one, but I think if you try walking with and without the belt and can feel a noticeable difference, you probably should be wearing one and can get some instant relief.
5) Use this as an excuse to relax! It may be your last chance for some time. I am enjoying some guilt free time on the couch, right now.
Pretty simple advice but I'm sure it could be helpful to someone. Trust me, if you've got full on pelvic pain I completely understand what you are going through and it's not pleasant. I've given birth so I have an excellent reference for pain and hey, pelvic pain is up there!
Z x
This time around, I really wanted to avoid what happened the first time and enrolled in pilates with a physio fairly early in the pregnancy. I've had the odd niggle in my pelvis but most of my pain has been in my upper back this time around, until this week.
On Sunday I went for a long walk and could feel that things were sensitive when I got home. I bent to take off my sock and, ping, something went on me in the glute/pelvis area. I've suffered with it all week until last night, true disaster struck. All it took was sitting on the lounge the wrong way, and it felt like something collapsed in my pelvis. It was so painful I cried out and then started sobbing when I couldn't move out of the one position, which had J running in thinking I was in labour! I had to see a physio, stat.
So, I saw a physio today (not my usual as I couldn't get in) and feel amazing and was inspired to write my top tips for managing pregnancy pelvic pain, just in case anyone else is struggling and wants some immediate advice.
Anyway, in my experience:
1) Physio, physio, physio. Not chiro. Physio! Find a great women's health physio and book in ASAP - they are amazing. Every physio I've ever met is really passionate about what they do and practices what they preach. Most physios will evaluate the problem and do some kind of work on the area (crazy painful but amazing massages) and put a treatment plan in place.
2) Start being really aware of putting weight on one particular leg. Sit down to put jeans on, sit down to shave your legs. Long walks and strokes like breaststroke can put unnecessary pressure on your pelvis.
3) Pregnancy pilates. If possible, do this in a class run by a physio, or even one on one with a physio, who can tailor exercises specifically to your condition. As always, prevention is the best cure - I would recommend that any newly pregnant woman enroll in some kind of pregnancy specific exercise class, but am pretty biased towards pilates because it's really helped me both times.
4) Invest in a pelvic support belt. I found this provided me with so much added support and, in turn, comfort. If possible, borrow one from a friend and take it along to your physio. Physios do say not to use one prior to assessment as you may not need one, but I think if you try walking with and without the belt and can feel a noticeable difference, you probably should be wearing one and can get some instant relief.
5) Use this as an excuse to relax! It may be your last chance for some time. I am enjoying some guilt free time on the couch, right now.
Pretty simple advice but I'm sure it could be helpful to someone. Trust me, if you've got full on pelvic pain I completely understand what you are going through and it's not pleasant. I've given birth so I have an excellent reference for pain and hey, pelvic pain is up there!
Z x
Monday, February 3, 2014
Healthy-er Raspberry White Choc Muffins
I rarely share recipes because I am so uber-critical of my own cooking but I am always on the lookout for anything remotely healthy that tastes good and my two year old will eat. Such recipes are incredibly rare (seriously, help me out - ideally with hidden veg!).
Despite it being 28+ degrees today and about 100 degrees in my west-facing kitchen, I was craving muffins. What can I say, I'm 34 weeks pregnant. I also had oodles of white chocolate in the cupboard after J bought me three kinds last time I made a cheesecake, terrified of getting the wrong sort. So I knew I wanted to make muffins that included white chocolate.
My mind immediately jumped to my favourite Donna Hay Raspberry and White Choc muffins, but I didn't want to make something quite so sweet. I'd like to be able to share them with H without feeling like a call from DOCS is imminent.
So, I fiddled around with the recipe a little and they turned out GREAT! They are seriously so delicious, I would never make them the traditional way again.
Healthier Raspberry & White Choc Muffins
2 cups wholemeal flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup coconut sugar*
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon rind
1/3 cup oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup chopped white chocolate
1 1/2 cups frozen raspberries**
* Coconut sugar is available from most health food stores and contains mostly low GI sucrose as opposed to high GI fructose.
** I didn't have enough raspberries so used a raspberry/blueberry combo - you could use any berries.
Method:
1) Preheat oven to 180 degrees.
2) Mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder) into a large bowl. Whisk wet ingredients into a separate bowl.
3) Add wet ingredients to dry and mix until just combined.
4) Add white chocolate and berries and spoon mixture into prepared muffin tin lined with baking paper or muffin cases.
5) Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
The lemon rind and sour cream give these muffins a nice tart flavour to counteract any sweetness while keeping them nice and moist. Funnily enough H picked the white chocolate out so they were even healthier for her! I am thinking of trying a non-dairy version of this where I use coconut flour instead of wholemeal, coconut milk instead of sour cream and dessicated coconut instead of chocolate. Can't wait to see how they turn out!
Z x
Despite it being 28+ degrees today and about 100 degrees in my west-facing kitchen, I was craving muffins. What can I say, I'm 34 weeks pregnant. I also had oodles of white chocolate in the cupboard after J bought me three kinds last time I made a cheesecake, terrified of getting the wrong sort. So I knew I wanted to make muffins that included white chocolate.
My mind immediately jumped to my favourite Donna Hay Raspberry and White Choc muffins, but I didn't want to make something quite so sweet. I'd like to be able to share them with H without feeling like a call from DOCS is imminent.
So, I fiddled around with the recipe a little and they turned out GREAT! They are seriously so delicious, I would never make them the traditional way again.
Healthier Raspberry & White Choc Muffins
2 cups wholemeal flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup coconut sugar*
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon rind
1/3 cup oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup chopped white chocolate
1 1/2 cups frozen raspberries**
* Coconut sugar is available from most health food stores and contains mostly low GI sucrose as opposed to high GI fructose.
** I didn't have enough raspberries so used a raspberry/blueberry combo - you could use any berries.
Method:
1) Preheat oven to 180 degrees.
2) Mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder) into a large bowl. Whisk wet ingredients into a separate bowl.
3) Add wet ingredients to dry and mix until just combined.
4) Add white chocolate and berries and spoon mixture into prepared muffin tin lined with baking paper or muffin cases.
5) Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
 |
| Icing sugar purely decorative and diminishes health benefits! |
 | ||
| Yum |
The lemon rind and sour cream give these muffins a nice tart flavour to counteract any sweetness while keeping them nice and moist. Funnily enough H picked the white chocolate out so they were even healthier for her! I am thinking of trying a non-dairy version of this where I use coconut flour instead of wholemeal, coconut milk instead of sour cream and dessicated coconut instead of chocolate. Can't wait to see how they turn out!
Z x
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
The Grandparents
We've just returned from a CHILD FREE (not counting the one in my tummy) weekend in Melbourne, where we saw both finals of the Australian Open. We're not huge sports fanatics in our house but tennis is one sport we both enjoy watching AND playing, and we've always talked about going to the open. This year we decided to make a "babymoon" of it, and leave H with my parents for the weekend. It was amazing and we are already dreaming about doing it again next year.
But anyway, grandparents. While I'm still a young Mum myself I've always thought being a grandparent must be amazing, even pre-parenthood when reflecting on my relationship with my own Grandma and Grandpa. You get all the benefits of parenthood - seeing your genes passed on, the overwhelming, unconditional love, the joy of young children - without any of the stress of actual parenting. You're allowed to give them chocolate and put them in front of the TV because hey, they're not your child. And you want to be the favourite.
Obviously the greater responsibility and effort involved in parenting means the rewards are magnified, but once you've gone through all that you get to, one day, be a grandparent. That's surely the ultimate reward.
H is head over heels in love with her grandparents, and obviously the feeling is pretty mutual. While they do shower her with affection and sugar, they don't spoil her and she knows there are certain rules when she's at their house - and unlike with me, she doesn't try to test them. She is the best version of herself when she stays there and always makes me very proud.
The feeling I'm always left with as we drive away, though, is that I wish we lived closer to them. I'm pretty lucky compared to some as my parents only live two hours away, but they also both work full time and often on weekends as they're both nurses, so it's not always convenient for us to visit. J's parents live in Germany and had 13 grandchildren before H came along, so they're not really in our lives as much as we'd like.
I do (very) often feel envious of people who can drop over to their Mum's place for a cup of tea a few afternoons a week, but luckily living in the heart of Sydney there are lots of other women in my situation, many with parents who are a long-haul flight away. So we always have each other! I also think the times when we do see each other are extra special because of the gaps in between.
So, here's to grandparents and the amazing relationships you have with our children! Where would we be without you?!
Z x
But anyway, grandparents. While I'm still a young Mum myself I've always thought being a grandparent must be amazing, even pre-parenthood when reflecting on my relationship with my own Grandma and Grandpa. You get all the benefits of parenthood - seeing your genes passed on, the overwhelming, unconditional love, the joy of young children - without any of the stress of actual parenting. You're allowed to give them chocolate and put them in front of the TV because hey, they're not your child. And you want to be the favourite.
Obviously the greater responsibility and effort involved in parenting means the rewards are magnified, but once you've gone through all that you get to, one day, be a grandparent. That's surely the ultimate reward.
H is head over heels in love with her grandparents, and obviously the feeling is pretty mutual. While they do shower her with affection and sugar, they don't spoil her and she knows there are certain rules when she's at their house - and unlike with me, she doesn't try to test them. She is the best version of herself when she stays there and always makes me very proud.
The feeling I'm always left with as we drive away, though, is that I wish we lived closer to them. I'm pretty lucky compared to some as my parents only live two hours away, but they also both work full time and often on weekends as they're both nurses, so it's not always convenient for us to visit. J's parents live in Germany and had 13 grandchildren before H came along, so they're not really in our lives as much as we'd like.
I do (very) often feel envious of people who can drop over to their Mum's place for a cup of tea a few afternoons a week, but luckily living in the heart of Sydney there are lots of other women in my situation, many with parents who are a long-haul flight away. So we always have each other! I also think the times when we do see each other are extra special because of the gaps in between.
So, here's to grandparents and the amazing relationships you have with our children! Where would we be without you?!
Z x
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
10 Things To Know About Montessori via Sixtine et Victoire
One of the fabulous blogs I try to keep up with is Sixtine et Victoire, the project of Deb who is a creative and stylish Montessori Mum to her two girls - Sixtine and Victoire. I am still a completely hopeless "Montessori Mum" but aim to keep learning. My husband is still advocating the Steiner point of view, which he was strictly brought up in, so who knows where we will end up. (The two philosophies are actually really different, but in my typical fence sitting fashion I can see the appeal of both).
Still, I find reading about Montessori's methods and findings incredibly interesting, and often helpful when it comes to questions of behaviour or activities. Montessori is a great starting point when looking for toddler activities that are both fun AND educational. And I get a lot out of the PTP program we attend.
Anyway, today I came across this post on Sixtine et Victoire, written by guest blogger Anne from Itty Bitty Love. I found it really put the whole Montessori approach into words better than I ever could. Definitely give it a read if you are interested in learning more about Montessori education!
Obviously it would be really challenging to be the perfect Montessori parent all the time. In fact, I don't think it would be good for anyone - too much of anything tends to make you less relaxed and less able to deal with the curve balls that small children will inevitably throw at you. But in terms of organising your home, reasoning and interacting with your toddler and setting up age appropriate learning activities, there is lots to learn from this approach.
Whether it is "right" for your child is another story - I'm actually really thinking through whether it is right for mine at the moment. But more on that another time.
Happy reading!
Z x
Still, I find reading about Montessori's methods and findings incredibly interesting, and often helpful when it comes to questions of behaviour or activities. Montessori is a great starting point when looking for toddler activities that are both fun AND educational. And I get a lot out of the PTP program we attend.
Anyway, today I came across this post on Sixtine et Victoire, written by guest blogger Anne from Itty Bitty Love. I found it really put the whole Montessori approach into words better than I ever could. Definitely give it a read if you are interested in learning more about Montessori education!
Obviously it would be really challenging to be the perfect Montessori parent all the time. In fact, I don't think it would be good for anyone - too much of anything tends to make you less relaxed and less able to deal with the curve balls that small children will inevitably throw at you. But in terms of organising your home, reasoning and interacting with your toddler and setting up age appropriate learning activities, there is lots to learn from this approach.
Whether it is "right" for your child is another story - I'm actually really thinking through whether it is right for mine at the moment. But more on that another time.
Happy reading!
Z x
Friday, January 17, 2014
We're Melting...
Australia is suffering through record breaking heatwaves at the moment, with the south east areas around Melbourne and Adelaide fighting extreme bushfires on top of 40C+ temperatures. Here in Sydney we've had it a little easier with five or so days of around 30 by the coast, but given I'm seven months pregnant I feel that equates to about 40 for me.
I find the afternoons the hardest, chiefly because our house is West facing so our backyard and main living areas cop intense afternoon sun. This includes our bedroom, which is also upstairs so just generally hotter, but thankfully has airconditioning. H and I have been spending most afternoons either at the beach or in her bedroom, which is at the front of the house and is lovely and dark and airy.
This morning we had to meet my aunt in the city, so I took the opportunity to visit the new Prince Alfred Park Pool in Surry Hills. I'd been once before with a friend and enjoyed it, so I was keen to try it out again.
What can I say, I love this pool! There's just something about it, an energy, plus it's all clean and new. There are healthy options at the cafe, Campos coffee and ice blocks made from real fruit. The shaded kiddie area looks very basic - just a number of fountains - but keeps kids entertained for ages without parents having to get wet. And the lap pool has disabled access, which is not only great from an accessibility point of view but means there is a large "shallow" ramp with a rail for kids to play on and around. We went to Leichhardt Park Aquatic centre earlier in the week and I have to say, we both had a better time at Prince Alfred Park.
Aside from the pool, there is also a modern, expansive park and playground right outside, which is great if you have a morning to fill. A lot of the play equipment is quite exposed which isn't so great for these hot days, but that's the case with many parks in Sydney I've found. For us the other bonus is the pool's location - just ten minutes from home and right outside J's work, I think it would be a great meeting place for a mid week dinner and swim.
Being submerged in cold water is really when I'm at my happiest lately! Heavily pregnant + summer is definitely interesting - and I still have eight weeks to go! How are you coping with the heat?
Z x
I find the afternoons the hardest, chiefly because our house is West facing so our backyard and main living areas cop intense afternoon sun. This includes our bedroom, which is also upstairs so just generally hotter, but thankfully has airconditioning. H and I have been spending most afternoons either at the beach or in her bedroom, which is at the front of the house and is lovely and dark and airy.
This morning we had to meet my aunt in the city, so I took the opportunity to visit the new Prince Alfred Park Pool in Surry Hills. I'd been once before with a friend and enjoyed it, so I was keen to try it out again.
What can I say, I love this pool! There's just something about it, an energy, plus it's all clean and new. There are healthy options at the cafe, Campos coffee and ice blocks made from real fruit. The shaded kiddie area looks very basic - just a number of fountains - but keeps kids entertained for ages without parents having to get wet. And the lap pool has disabled access, which is not only great from an accessibility point of view but means there is a large "shallow" ramp with a rail for kids to play on and around. We went to Leichhardt Park Aquatic centre earlier in the week and I have to say, we both had a better time at Prince Alfred Park.
Aside from the pool, there is also a modern, expansive park and playground right outside, which is great if you have a morning to fill. A lot of the play equipment is quite exposed which isn't so great for these hot days, but that's the case with many parks in Sydney I've found. For us the other bonus is the pool's location - just ten minutes from home and right outside J's work, I think it would be a great meeting place for a mid week dinner and swim.
Being submerged in cold water is really when I'm at my happiest lately! Heavily pregnant + summer is definitely interesting - and I still have eight weeks to go! How are you coping with the heat?
Z x
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Summer Daze
Happy New Year to all! One thing I would like to achieve this year is to get a little more consistent with my blog, particularly improving imagery and sharing more of my life and my style visually. That said, I'm really not putting too much pressure on myself! My main goal this year is to be present - to savour my children, enjoy my relationship, observe more. I hope to spend at least one hour a day just BREATHING IN my new arrival come March.
Meanwhile, we're all in a bit of a summer daze chez W. My last post happened to coincide with J's last day at work, and since then we've done nothing but eat, drink, swim and be naked. Particularly H - to say she is obsessed with mermaids would actually be an understatement, and part of this obsession means having no top on at all times (for some reason no pants is also preferable). We've indulged this over the past few weeks because we could, but getting dressed is turning into an even bigger nightmare with this fashion-fussy child of ours.
One of the best things about a summer break is the lapse in routine. Late nights, sleep ins, fish and chips at 4pm. Doing whatever the hell you want. But after a few weeks without routine I tend to miss it. Crave it, even.
This week I've made a big poster outlining mine and H's daily routine to place in the kitchen or her room - I've yet to decide where. It's fairly flexible - play time, quiet time, meals - but gives both of us a real guide for the day and it sort of calms me down just to know there is a routine to follow. Otherwise things can start to feel out of control and I can start to question myself a bit. I've also tried to base it around the daycare routine for consistency.
I followed Tizzie Hall's routines when H was a baby and it REALLY worked for me. I love having someone else tell me what to do. I plan to use them again with this next babe and was even thinking I could slot his/her routine into H's so I can make sure she is occupied at feeding times and so forth. I'll let you know how that goes - even though I loved her routines I was always very lax with them and did things 'roughly' at the right time 'most of the time' so it could just have been that H was an easy baby!
Anyway, hopefully my first blog post of 2014 will continue to awaken me from my summer slumber.
Z x
Meanwhile, we're all in a bit of a summer daze chez W. My last post happened to coincide with J's last day at work, and since then we've done nothing but eat, drink, swim and be naked. Particularly H - to say she is obsessed with mermaids would actually be an understatement, and part of this obsession means having no top on at all times (for some reason no pants is also preferable). We've indulged this over the past few weeks because we could, but getting dressed is turning into an even bigger nightmare with this fashion-fussy child of ours.
One of the best things about a summer break is the lapse in routine. Late nights, sleep ins, fish and chips at 4pm. Doing whatever the hell you want. But after a few weeks without routine I tend to miss it. Crave it, even.
This week I've made a big poster outlining mine and H's daily routine to place in the kitchen or her room - I've yet to decide where. It's fairly flexible - play time, quiet time, meals - but gives both of us a real guide for the day and it sort of calms me down just to know there is a routine to follow. Otherwise things can start to feel out of control and I can start to question myself a bit. I've also tried to base it around the daycare routine for consistency.
I followed Tizzie Hall's routines when H was a baby and it REALLY worked for me. I love having someone else tell me what to do. I plan to use them again with this next babe and was even thinking I could slot his/her routine into H's so I can make sure she is occupied at feeding times and so forth. I'll let you know how that goes - even though I loved her routines I was always very lax with them and did things 'roughly' at the right time 'most of the time' so it could just have been that H was an easy baby!
Anyway, hopefully my first blog post of 2014 will continue to awaken me from my summer slumber.
Z x
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)