Tuesday, December 28, 2010

A Great Christmas!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas!

We had a lovely first Christmas with Murray. The wee dude was very kind to us and didn't wake until 6am - yeah! We got him through to our room to dress and feed him and open up some Santa sack presents and a cup of tea for us.


Murray in his Xmas outfit



He was tired after opening the presents so we put him back for a sleep while we got up and had a yummy breakfast of pancakes (wheat/dairy free) / croissants / Parma ham and maple syrup!

I then prepared the stuffing and stuffed the bird and prepared all the veg so that when we got back from church it was all ready to go. We met my parents at church for mass where Murray gave me my most treasured present - he fell asleep in my arms. He hasn't done that for at least a couple of months and I was wondering if he'd ever do it again. It was so beautiful to look down at his wee peaceful sleeping face!

After Mass, mum and dad looked after Murray while Al and I got out for a run together. It was so nice to run with Al - they will be treasured times now I think.

When we got back, Murray was pooped, so went down for a nap while we opened presents from under the tree and then it was all hands to the oven to get the food on the table - a little later than planned, but at least we were hungry! After dinner, we 'Skyped' Al's parents and sis which was great as they haven't seen Murray since October.

Mum and dad headed home once Murray had been put to bed in the evening and we collapsed in a tired heap!


Boxing Day

No rest for the wicked! Murray was up at 5.30 but the advantage of this was, as we were heading up to my sister's, it gave me plenty time to strip the turkey and make turkey soup. Getting packed wasn't as bad as when we went away in September as we know more what we need now. Plus we were able to take a travel cot instead of his moses basket. We had transferred Murray to his proper cot a few days before so he was used to a bigger bed as we were worried he might not settle, but he was so tired by the time he went bed he would have slept anywhere! We had a lovely Boxing day turkey curry at my sisters with a bit more champagne / wine than I have drunk in a wee while so was rather glad when Murray woke us at 5.30am that I didn't feel too dodgy! LOL! It was weird having him in our room again - total nightmare trying to get out to the loo in the night without waking him, but it did mean we saw him sleeping with his hands above his head - so cute!

We had a lovely day yesterday. My sister looked after Murray and let Al and I get out for another run together in the morning. We ended up doing just short of 8 miles as we got a bit lost. I did manage but it was a little bit much so I just need to take care. After lunch we headed up to see my sister's horse and take Murray for a lovely wee snowy walk in the backpack.



Back to Helen's for his bottle and then back down the road to our's. I was a bit concerned that he would sleep all the way home and then not want to go to bed but a wee play, a bath and bottle and he went to sleep like a wee treasure and stayed asleep until 6am this morning! Yeah.

Al dressed him this morning and brought him downstairs in this outfit with the mini converse shoes that his sister bought. I'm not really a big one for shoes on babies but these ARE outrageously cute!

Friday, December 24, 2010

One More Sleep 'till Xmas!

As it is Xmas Eve I felt it obligatory to dress Murray in this fab suit courtesy of Aunty Helen (my sis.). We have a different suit for tomorrow courtesy of Aunty Fe (Al's sis).

So Darn Cute!!!!


Aunty Helen also got Murray this gorgeous winter suit which makes him look and feel just like a teddy!



All I really wanted for Xmas was our central heating. We have a couple more to put up so we thought we'd get them up tonight, but Al's drilling just woke the wee dude up with much crying, so they'll just have to wait! Nevermind!

Enjoying a rather festive glass of wine and some cheese. Can't normally enjoy a Christmas Eve tipple as we usually go to midnight mass. Alas, no midnight mass for us this year, so a glass of rouge it is!

Merry Christmas! I hope everyone has a special day wherever they are. Sending out prayers for all those who are touched by sadness this year - may your heart be filled with love and strength. 

On a joyful note however: a special Merry Christmas to Murray's newest friend; Hamish Douglas Muir who was born on the 21st - well done the Muirs!

Oh and Murray learnt how to splash the water in the bath today so no longer will I stay dry at bathtime!


Merry Christmas everyone!

Monday, December 20, 2010

The All Clear; Garmintastic; Central Heating and First Solids!

The All Clear

This morning I had an appointment at 'The One Stop Breast Clinic' to check my lump. After much prodding and an ultrasound I was overjoyed to be told that it was just a cyst - probably from breast feeding. The kind Doctor then swiftly pulled out a needle, stuck me like a pin cushion and hey presto it was drained.

I have to admit I am feeling more than a little washed out this evening as a result. The relief is enormous!


Garmin 305

In April my lovely mum asked me what I wanted for my birthday. I really, really wanted a Garmin, so she very, very kindly agreed to buy me one. I didn't bother getting it then as I can tell you right now what my pace was: tortoise shuffle! There was a sale on at 'Run 4 It' so I ordered one and it arrived the other day. I'm still to get to grips with the various settings so I simply just headed out the door on Sunday to get some idea of my pace. It was quite variable depending on snow covering or uphills but was mostly in the 8 min/mile zone i.e: 8 - 8.59 min mile, but it did go down to 7.05 at one point and to 7.45 several times. That being said, it also rocketed up to 11 min miles a few times too (stupid inclines). It was great! There is definitely no hiding that is for sure - no kidding yourself it feels hard because you're running fast when really your just unfit!

6 miles is still very much my limit though. It is frustrating - I just cannot run further at the mo'. I guess I can just concentrate on getting a bit faster so that lower 8s/7s feels easier. Having the Garmin will definitely help keep me focused in that way.


Central Heating


Our Central Heating arrived on Saturday. It was meant to arrive on Friday between 9am and 4pm so I stayed in. At 3.50pm I phoned the company to find out where it was, only to be told it wasn't arriving today due to snow delays! GRRRRRR! Murray had literally sreeched his way through the day due to teething and I was climbing the walls. A little piece of my mind was given... Al is presently working his way through the Norwegian installation instructions! LOL - good job there are pics too! Can't wait until I can move from room to room without having to put on jacket, gloves and hat!!!!


First Solids


Murray had his first taste of solids yesterday. His eyes have been tracking us eating for a while now and so thought we'd give him a try. He had about 4 teeny spoonfuls of baby rice, but seemed to enjoy it. Today he managed about 8 or 9. So I'll stick with the baby rice until the end of the week and then try some carrot. He loves chewing on his spoon too - a great teether and BOY is he ever teething at the mo!


Exercise Round Up


Last Week:
A good week especially considering I wasn't allowed to run on Thurs and Fri due to physio's request.
Mon: 5 mile v easy run
Tue: 60 min Spin
Wed: 60 min Pilates
Thursday: Rest
Friday:60 min Pilates (including arms section on harder DVD for first time)
Sat: 5 mile run with club (Mince Pie Run - v v v chilly but great fun - first run with hubby since Murray!)
Sun: 6 mile run with Garmin
Total = 22 miles + 120 min Pilates

This week has started well with a 60 minute Spin. Let's hope it continues that way.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Backpack + Doubled Birth Weight

Murray is now able to go in the back pack. This is a great step as it means I can do housework with him on my back and actually get things done. Plus he loves it as he has such a different view and we can play games in any mirrors we come across around the house. Going for walks are easier too as it is far more comfortable to carry him in the pack compared to the sling. I went Xmas shopping on Monday with him in it and while it was pretty hard work I'm sure it was better than trying to push the buggy around the shops.


Al Carrying Murray on a lovely walk around Gleneagles golf course.



Weight at 24 Weeks

Murray is now 16lbs 3oz so he has officially doubled his birth weight! Onto weaning soon!


Exercise


Exercise has been better than it was in terms of discomfort but a stupid stomach bug that floored both Al and I for a few days at the same time (yeah that was fun trying to look after Murray) put a bit of a spanner in the works.

Last week
Mon: 5 mile  v snowy club run (al on annual leave so could go)
Tue: 60 min spin
Wed: 60min Pilates
Thursday: 30 min Pilates - ugggh - came down with bug at lunch time.
Sunday: 3 mile snowy walk.

This week so far:
Mon: 5 mile run
Tue: 60 min Spin (tough as still a bit wiped from bug)
Wed: 60 min Pilates - stomach is definitely much much stronger - feeling really pleased about that.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Running and Walking in This Winter Wonderland.

As Al has been working from home this week due to the snow I have been able to get out for 2 runs in the snow at lunch time. Here are 2 pics from the runs. Nothing better than snow falling all around you while you run to lift your spirits and renew your enthusiasm for peek-a-boo - just gorgeous!



Today Al was off. We were meant to be going to Belfast yesterday to see Al's folks, but due to the snow mayhem decided it would be safer to postpone the visit until Jan. Fortunately we were able to switch the ferry journeys to then and I must say I'm glad I wasn't driving down to the Ferry with all this snow everywhere - could you imagine if we had got stuck in traffic or snow with a 5 month old - not fun! Anyway as Al was off we went out for a family walk in the snow as we were all getting a bit of cabin fever. I wanted to carry Murray at first as I quite enjoyed being able to point things out to him the other day, but our plan was to swop on the way back. Well, we headed off pointing out the snow and the trees etc to Murray and then, would you believe it - he fell asleep! There was me worrying he might get too cold and not enjoy it and he just pops off to sleep! So I had to carry him back too. I must say it was hard work - almost like being preggers again LOL!




Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Snow Galore!

It snowed a little on Friday night; then a little more on Saturday and on Sunday we woke up to quite a bit of snow and it then proceeded to continue to fall all day, so by the time we went to bed it was really deep. I was so glad Al was working from home on Monday as it was total chaos with buses and trains. Then yesterday afternoon the snow started again and the snow we have woken to this morning is just amazing. Thank God Al's boss emailed him to tell him just to work form home for the next few days! I have to admit it is just lovely having him here in the morning before 9am and after 5pm. He was super kind and let me out for a run at lunch time too which was fantastic to get out in the daylight and the snow. It makes such a difference and it is so nice for Al to see so much more of Murray.


Our Back Garden



I took Murray out for a walk around the village in the sling this afternoon as he had been inside all day and I think it is really important he gets fresh air everyday. He screamed blue murder at getting all his clothes on but once we were out seemed quite happy.


We had to take a wee trip up to Crieff yesterday and when we drove home Murray had fallen asleep all bundled up in his snow suit and I just could resist taking a photo or two. Call me biased if you like but ... sooooo cute!



Exercise + Feeling Blue

After such a great week, last week was not great. I think I pushed myself a bit hard running with my friend and so my rehabilitation took a bit of a knock. V frustrating and I actually felt a little depressed about it to be honest. I guess beforehand you just cannot know what the after effects of a complicated labour can be. I know really that I'm actually very lucky as things could have been a lot worse, but it was all a bit brutal none the less. I think I was so frustrated as I've been so diligent in taking things steady and not pushing too hard and I just felt like I'm never going to have my body back to full throttle. It didn't help of course that I also found a lump in my breast last week, so to be honest I just felt like a bit of a wreck. I've been referred to PRI for scans etc. I'm sure it's an after effect of breast feeding but until I know for sure it just sits there on your mind. I wasn't sure if I was going to blog about this or not, but someone in my running club has been really open about a lump she found (been given the all clear thank goodness) but her honesty reminded me to phone the doc straight away and if my honesty can do the same for some one else then that can only be a good thing. That goes for any post labour problems. I'm so glad that 1) I have 2 friends that are physios so I could ask for advice straight away and 2) I asked to be referred back to doc and physio straight away because I'm petty sure that if I hadn't, I wouldn't be as far along as I am. I sometimes feel that so many women are able to get straight back on the horse, so to speak, and are back to full on training so quickly which is so great for them, but I wonder how many other women feel a bit blue that 5 months down the road they still feel a bit broken - so if my honesty helps others to know they are not the only one then - great! I'm feeling a lot better after a good few days of rest; a trip to the doc to ensure I hadn't done any damage and a gentle run in the snow today with no problems. It'll also serve as a good reminder for me in the future if we are ever blessed with another baby.

Anyhoo we are off to Belfast (snow permitting) on Thursday to see Al's parents. We are looking forward to it and I know they can't wait to see the wee dude.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Flat Tyres Galore!

This week has been the week of flat tyres. On Monday I had a flat front wheel on the buggy while I pushed Murray around Gleneagles golf course so Al fixed it for me so I could run with the buggy on the Tuesday. Then on Wednesday I drove up to my baby Massage class and when I got there I realised I had a flat (how it didn't blow on the 30 minute motorway drive I have no idea - phew) and then today I had another buggy flat - left back - so pushing Murray around the shops was made even harder than normal - MY GOD - tres annoying!


Exercise


so far, so good:
Mon:60 min spin + 3 mile walk with buggy ~ 9 miles
Tue: 20 min pilates + 5 mile run with buggy
Wed: 30mins pilates
Thur: 60min spin ~ 6 miles
Fri: 6 mile hill run with mate Liz - phew, tough! + 10 mins Pilates
Total so far: 26 miles + 60 mins pilates

I'm swopping my usual Sat for Sun as I'm tired and sore from today and want things to settle again. If I feel like it I will try to do some pilates too - that all depends on if I'm no longer sore; if I am, then I will rest.


Murray's First Certificate

Murray and I completed our baby massage class this week. It was such a good class. Jenni, our instructor, was excellent and I found it a really enjoyable 1.5 hours to unwind and enjoy a really special time with Murray.




Swimming

Al and I took Murray swimming last Saturday, but unfortunately went at kids' hour and he hated it as it was so noisy. He really startles at noises so it was no surprise really. I did feel like an awful mummy! On Monday I met my mum at her club in the morning and I tried again. He wasn't crying this time - just back to the non plussed look he demonstrated in Aviemore! I'm hoping he will graduate to enjoyment at some point!


Bouncy Chair


We tried Murray in one of his door hanging bouncy chairs (we've kindly been donated 3) today. He seemed to quite enjoy it. Al and I found it hilarious as the ties were a bit twisted when we first put him in so he did a mega spiral spin and his face was priceless - I so wished we had had a camera on him at the time! It is a great device as it has a wee tray that you can put toys on - I can see this being invaluable. I'm going to use the other 2 upstairs so I have something with which to entertain him when I'm doing housework upstairs. Thanks everyone!



Sunday, November 14, 2010

Exercise Schedule + Avent Bottles

24 Miles

Mon: 4 mile hike w/ buggy
Tue: 60 min Spin - 30km ~ 6 miles
Wed: 30 min Pilates
Thurs: 6 mile run w/ buggy
Fri: 60 mins Pilates
Sat: 5 mile club run
Sun: 3 mile walk/hike

It's been a funny week. Murray used to be like clockwork sleeping to the same time every morning, but this past week he's woken at different times every morning. On Thursday it was 7.45am!!!! Now while I'm not complaining about getting 2 hours extra sleep it is throwing schedules off all over the place - I knew writing down that flipping schedule would come back to bite me!!! LOL! It would be so good if I knew he was going to sleep till then because I could then get up before him and do a spin, but never mind. Actually it was quite good on Thurs as I fed him and then went straight out for a run with him in the buggy as it was already light enough whereas it hasn't been possible to do that when he wakes at 5.30/5.45am. I think now that I know I can run with the buggy I might use that option more as it can be kind of stressful trying to get in my spin, hoping he'll sleep long enough after first feed to do so, that is if he doesn't 'sleep in' and then not want to go down at all - understandably.

I think I'm going to follow the following plan loosely:

3-6 miles EASY - good to do as a run with buggy.
4-6 miles TEMPO - well faster w/out buggy until feeling strong enough to cope with sustained hard effort
45 - 60 mins XT (Spin or gym)
5-6 miles EASY  w/ 6 x 30sec faster - again could be done with buggy.
6-10 miles EASY (for NOV I'm sticking to 6 miles as max distance for a run and depending on how I feel maybe start to lengthen that run in DEC)

I'd like to do at least 2 x 60 mins pilates session but it may be best to just aim for 120 mins over the whole week as I can often get in 10 mins here or there.

This results in 26 - 34 miles. I like there being a range as it allows for flexibility which lets face it with a babba is definitely the name of the game!


Saturday Club Run


My run on Saturday, while tough, felt almost normal for the first time post Murray. I felt like I could get into a rhythm and power on a bit. It was great running with other folk and pushing a little up the hills. Yeah!

Avent Bottles


A few weeks ago we took Murray to the doc due to his vomiting. She wasn't much help to be honest (or maybe she was) but she did suggest trying different bottles, so from yesterday we have been using Avent bottles. I don't know if it is going to stop the vomiting - we'll see, but he certainly seems to be able to take it down a lot easier - 10 mins as opposed to 20+ and his wind is coming up too. The added bonus is he is taking a decent amount as well - last week I was struggling to get more than 4oz in before he would start thrashing around - that included his first feed when he hadn't eaten for 12 hours!!!!!! I think he couldn't latch on properly (well it never was his strong suit) and so was taking in a lot of air. I don't want to jinx things, but here's hoping it does help because his feeds have really been getting me down. So far today he's glugged down his milk quite the thing, burped and then been quite happy apart from his teething pain compared to thrashing and arching his back to get away from the bottle even at the start of a feed unless he's been really hungry, but definitely after 3 or 4oz and then of course on top of that it could all be thrown up! Like I say; fingers crossed.

Here's to a new week.

Monday, November 8, 2010

First Run With Buggy + Al's B'Day.

Yesterday I went for my first run with the Buggy. It was HARD work, but I quite enjoyed it. MY shoulders, obliques and intercostal muscles all hurt today - it is a SERIOUS wokout!

It wasn't a great week for exercise again last week, but considering I was getting over a cold it was just fine:

Tues: 60 mins Pilates
Wed: 60 mins Pilates + 60 min gym workout (equiv to 6 mile run)
Fri: 30 min Pilates focusing on Abs
Sat: 5.5 mile Run (10k route)
Sun: 6 mile road run with buggy (Phew!)


A Social Life!

Al, Murray and I went to one of my baby mum friends's house (Lynsey) for mulled wine on Saturday evening. Another mum (Claire) from that baby group (our babies were born within 7 days and 2 of them on the same day) and her hubby and baby were there too. We then walked along to the fireworks display. The other 2 babies were asleep but Murray was awake. I was a bit worried he might freak out, but he stared at all the lights with big bug eyes and seemed to quite enjoy them! We didn't get home until 9pm and Murray was knackered but he settled well none the less so we were glad we did it.

Last night Al and I went out for our first meal out together since the 1st of July. We went out to celebrate Al's birthday. It was really nice to celebrate properly this year as last year I was in the throws on 1st trimester hell and was sick as a dog and cream crackered. I'm pretty sure I was flat on my back heaving at the thought of eating anything and was in bed by about 8pm!!!!! Poor Al sat supping a beer on his own!!!! Needless to say this year was a bit better! We went to a restaurant called Yann's that serves really classic French food from the Haute Savoie region and it was lovely.


Walk on the West Highland Way 

Today was lovely. I got up and did first feed and let Al sleep in. We then had a relaxing breaky and 'open presents'. The weather was awful but we thought we'd head up North and have lunch at the Drovers' Inn which is next to the West Highland Way. We had a lovely lunch and then as the rain had eased enough we headed out for a walk on the way with Murray in the buggy. We had to stop when the path deteriorated too much and got too steep, but I think we probably had about a 4 mile walk never the less. We got back to Inn in perfect time to feed Murray and just as the rain really started again. The views were amazing as it had snowed on the tops of the mountains so it was all very atmospheric.

About to walk off Lunch - Gorgeous Waterfall (Grey Mares Tail) in background coming down mountains we hiked last year when I was preggers and didn't know and so just thought I had suddenly become an unfit puffer!




Al, Buggy and Rapids

Snowy Peaks!



Murray's all smiles to be back in the warm!





Friday, November 5, 2010

Murray's 'Schedule', head control + 8 min mile

I was reading L'il Runners blog today and she had noted down Kara's schedule and it occurred to me it would be a good thing to record what Murray is doing now to look back on.

Murray's usual day at 18 weeks:

Awake from 5 - 6am (If awake at 5 we let him sing to himself until Al's alarm goes off at 5.45am - If he cries we go get him, but sometimes he drops back off to sleep if he wakes at 5)

First Feed - 6/6.30am by time changed him and made up bottles

Depending on how long it has taken to feed him - when he's thrown up an entire bottle and needs to be fully changed and re-fed we can be up for a while - he goes back down for a nap. He used to go down for a good 2-3 hours to next feed, but now it is just about an hour and it can take him a while to drop off (10 - 15 mins) but If I keep him up he just gets really tired and is really cranky all day.

Second Feed - 9/ 9.30 or if I have a class at 10 eg baby Massage I go to class early and feed him 9.45/10am - I do his bottle with an extra oz of water to feed e.g: 7oz water, 6 scoops of feed to prevent him from becoming constipated. I do second feed as first is often really weird - actually second can be weird too, actually every feed now I come to think of it, but it seems easier to cope with at 9 rather than 6am and I like him to take as much as poss. Feeding is definitely not Murray's strong point!

11am ish (can be half 10 if awake earlier or 11.30 if slept longer) desperate for a nap - Rock him in cradle to help. At home sleeps 45mins - 1 hour. If out can sleep in car seat quite well unless stirring and something wakes him but can usually get 30mins. Swing him in car seat - Have Biceps of steel!!!!!

Lunch feed 12.30ish

2pmish - Nap - see above although he can often nap in his buggy when out for a walk too. I rock him in the cradle only during the day as he is used to the motion when out and about. I don't rock at night or first thing so he knows how to settle himself. If he's tired he REALLY cries so if we're out and about I HAVE to swing him or everyone's ear drums would be burst!

3.30ish - mid afternoon feed

4.45 /5pm - Baby Massage. 
5 - 6pm - Dedicated Murray play time From 5.30 - 6pm this can be all about keeping him as happy as poss as he is getting tired!!!

6pm Bath time

6.20pm ish - Night time feed

6.45pm ish Sleep.

I had written this and then Murray woke up after about 40 mins! Started to feed at 8.50 as he was really gurning for it; only took half his feed; gurned while I tried to do some jobs and finally at half 10 took the rest of his feed. He then went for a sleep at 11.30. He woke at 12 but resettled and is still asleep now - 1pm!!!! The long sleep is unusual but the weird feeds are quite frequent! So when I say schedule.... it is more a rough framework!

Feeling a lot better + Progress

I woke up on Monday feeling 100% better. I still have a bit of a scratchy throat but don't feel absolutely wrecked! I didn't go to Yoga on Monday as it is quite stressful getting up to Perth for 10am when I'm on form let alone after a cold. Plus I was still a bit headachy and the thought of lots of crying babies did not fill me with joy! We went and visited Nanna and Grandcha instead which was lovely. It suddenly occurred to me that I was a baby in that house and there was my baby in the house - ah the circle of life!

I did Pilates on Tues and felt good - infact I was able to progress and do some of my harder DVD which was great (full body workout and stretch). Al was working from home on Wed so I had help in the morning so was able to do Pilates again - did the leg workout from the harder DVD too. I also tried the abs one, but it is still too hard - that tummy gets a real pounding during pregnancy - I guess I was seriously fit to burst so poor wee Abs were well and truly split. They are lying pretty much together again Claire M and Emi so don't panic - I've been checking them every step of the way!

Gym + Creche

I joined the gym at the weekend. There are 3 reasons for this 1) A really wet weather option, 2) Use of the creche and 3) We can take Murray swimming in a nice warm baby pool. It was weird though because as soon as I started thinking about leaving him there I found it quite hard but I need to do it as it is getting harder and harder to get exercise in the morning and to be honest if I had to spin more than 2 times per week I think I would lose the plot altogether. 

There are a few benefits to putting Murray in creche: 1) I should hopefully be able to meet up and run with my running friends which will be fab as at the mo it is impossible to coincide with them unless it's a weekend and I really miss that part of my life. I'm running with my friend Liz on Sat and I'm really looking forward to it. 
2) Exercise will hopefully become my stress relief/ enjoyment again. On days when my parents have looked after Murray it is a mad dash to get Murray fed before they arrive and hope he doesn't need a sleep as he really cries plus it is difficult for them to carry him upstairs. If I left the buggy he'd prob go to sleep in there but not for as long so he gets cranky. It is all very dependent on a good day and I just end up feeling a bit wound up which kind of defeats the purpose of it!
We will go and see it at the weekend so we feel comfortable - we were going to last weekend but stupid cold kind of got in the way!

Anyhooo as Al was working from home yesterday I nipped out at 5pm to try out the gym and It was really good. I went on the treadmill for the last 15  mins. 3 of them were walking cool down but the running I did was 1 min intervals going up from 10km/h to 12.5 km/hour (2mins) and back down. 12.5k/h is about 8 min miles so I was quite chuffed especially after a cold. It didn't feel too hideously uncomfortable either, but I'm not sure how long I could hold it for!
I felt quite tired this morning when I woke up so I will definitely rest today and poss tomorrow as I really want to feel fit enough to run with Liz on Sat and I also want to totally throw this stupid cold.

Gurning + Look how I can lift my head!

Murray has developed a gurn. I'm not sure if it is the cold or teething but there are days when I can hardly put him down without him gurning away. It is exhausting!!!!! I hope I'm not over interacting with him. He used to be very good at mat time and I could get on with things but the past 2 weeks have been pretty tough going! Maybe he's a bit bored of the toys on the mat. He does like his leapfrog table. I think it has helped his head control and he can now lift his head so much better when he's on his front - Mummy's very proud!


I like my new bug - well for approximately 5 mins!





Sunday, October 31, 2010

Sick Murray and Mummy.

Ugh I don't feel well. I've been shattered all week and by Thursday I was beyond tired. Unfortunately this coincided with Murray not feeling very well. The poor wee thing gurned and cried his way through the day. I couldn't put him down. I gave him some calpol which he promptly threw up a long with his feed - ugh - it was like the early days all over again. I was so tired I chickened out of bed time routine and popped Murray in the car and went to pick up Al from the train station so he could help when we got back. Although the day was pretty hideous 2 great things happened: 1) Al sent me 20 red roses! Gorgeous!  and 2) I was sensible enough to ask if Al could take the Friday off and he could.

We were both glad he was off when that night we were up to 1am trying to de stuff Murray's nose as he kept waking himself up crying as he couldn't breathe (sitting in the bathroom with hot taps on full! We now have some drops that we can put on a cloth near his bed.). Al let me sleep in on Friday and I slept until 11am!!!!!!!!!!!! I really was tired. I felt so groggy on Friday, but figured a chilled out day with Al's help would sort me out. I did feel a lot better on Sat so went out for a run but it was a real slog as Tuesday had been. Despite that and despite having to dive through a beech hedge to get away from some angry cows - OMG - it had been great to get out as it was gorgeous weather - a bit of a change from the past 4 days of black skies and rain. Anyway I thought it had been a good idea, but last night my right gland was sore and I knew I'd wake up feeling crap and sure enough I do. I had promised Al a lie in this morning so I dragged myself up and did first feed so Al could get some sleep. I am now firmly ensconced in the sofa with fruit juice, tea, blanket, pills while Al is out with Murray for a walk.

Needless to say I've not done as well on the old exercise front but none the less I've still done the following:

Mon: 30km spin
Tue: 6 mile run (v slow, a real slo and I am not going any further for at least a month)
Wed: 60 mins Pilates
Sat: 6 mile run (A slog again but pleased with ability to run hills) + 3 mile walk

Sun: Lift tea and lemisp to lips! LOL!

Here's hoping both Mray and I feel better soon.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Il y a du neige sur les montagnes!

We woke up - well actually we woke up to Murray's chattering at 4.50am, but on managing to successfully ignore that and thus him fall back asleep - we re-awoke to snow on the mountains today - absolutely cracking!
As a result I had breaky and got dressed in my full length running trousers and headed out to tackle the 10k route for the first time. I am very chuffed to report I made it round and even managed to run the hills except for one when I was taking a walking break. I am almost there - next time I could probably run the whole route - not breaking any speed (fast speed that is) records - but run it none the less. I have been constantly amazed at how much improvement I feel  each week. I suspect in a few of weeks I will be running for that distance and not even be aware of anything any more which is really, really great. In many ways it has been good that I've not been able to get straight back to it as I have built up really steadily and only been out twice a week for the past couple of weeks which I am sure has helped prevent (fingers crossed) any injuries developing. I want to get my running up to at least 3 times a week and plateau at that stage for a while to let my body adjust and then I can start building miles very gradually to develop my aerobic base.

So to surmise my exercise week has been really good again (despite Murray's sleep routine changing somewhat and his feeding being very odd too):

Monday: 33km spin - equiv to 6.5 mile run + 4 mile walk with buggy
Tuesday: 50 mins Pilates + 3 mile walk with buggy
Wednesday: 30km spin - equiv to 6 mile run
Thursday: 60 mins Pilates + 4 mile walk with buggy
Friday: 5 mile run/walk ( total of 42.5 min running +13.5 min walking) - thanks dad for babysitting!
Saturday: 5.5 mile trail run (10k route) - 14 min walking + 49 min running
Total mileage = 34 miles

I just managed to finish my spin as Murray woke up on Wednesday - he's not been going down for very long after his first feed this week despite waking earlier (5.20am) and Thursday's Pilates was finished with rattle toys in hands with him at my feet or between my legs as I stretched to keep him interested! That'll teach me to try and have some breaky before my pilates! On the plus, when I've been in the house I am managing to get him down for a morning and afternoon nap so at least I know I could use those times if need be.

Baby Massage

Murray and I have started a 5 week course on baby massage. We really enjoyed it on Wednesday ( once we had recovered from the stress of trying to get up to Perth for 10am and combining feeds etc). Our homework is to find a good time to do it everyday. We've been doing it at about 4.45 / 5pm when he is alert and happy before he gets really tired. It is a lovely thing to do as it is so interactive and relaxing.

Baby Yoga

Murray and I are also starting baby yoga on a Monday. I am really looking forward to that too (again apart from the getting to Perth for another 10am start).

Leap Frog Table

Murray's neck is getting strong enough to put him in his leap frog table (thanks Aunty Jane) for short periods of time. He seems to really enjoy it.




Some cute images:

Teddy and me!

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All smiles for Grandma and Grandad Nicholl.


Monday, October 18, 2010

Chitter chatter!

Only just the other day Al and I were saying that Murray hasn't been very vocal recently and then lo and behold Murray chitter chattered to us all day yesterday and it has continued today. It is so unbelievably cute. His whole body goes rigid sometimes when it is a particularly loud urrrrrr. He has had me in stitches all day. I love the shape of his mouth when he makes his urrr urrr sounds. He is really concentrating and then he looks so very pleased with himself! I was woken at 5.40am to the sound of his sing songing urrrs through the monitor and it was the loveliest way to wake up.

Here are a couple of video clips we took of him yesterday. I know I'm biased, but I could just eat him up he's so darn adorable!




We went for a trip to the new Tiso's outdoor experience shop (outdoor stuff) that has just opened in Perth yesterday. It was great. There is a climbing wall, a soft play area with creche staff and a lovely cafe with, wheat, dairy+ gluten free options - I can highly recommend the flapjack and soya milk cappuccino! There were a lot of babies and kids there and I couldn't help but think: those without kids were out in the mountains/on bikes/in kayaks whilst the rest of us were in Tiso's cafe thinking about when we'll be able to head out on adventures again! Hee hee! I wouldn't have it any other way - this is the best adventure I've been on yet!

Friday, October 15, 2010

A Great Week!

I've had a great exercise week. I don't know if next week will be as good, so I'm just enjoying a good week just now. Since Murray's been here I've definitely found myself grabbing the moment as I don't know if I'll get a chance tomorrow!

Mon: at least 3 mile run + 3 mile hilly walk w/out buggy
Tue: 50 mins Pilates + at least 3 mile hilly walk with buggy
Wed: 30km (~ 6 mile run) spin + 3 mile walk with buggy + 10 mins Abs Pilates
Thurs: 20 mins Pilates + 3 mile hilly walk with buggy
Fri: 30km (#6mile run) spin

Sat: run - at least 3 miles, prob nearer 4 + if time 30 - 50 mins Pilates
Sun: rest.

Weekly mileage has been 27 already and so a v least will be 30! The walking is great as it is good for us both to get the fresh air and helps to build up the mileage gently without too much strain on my body.

Target next week is to link longer block of running together for one run and for the other, poss get out with buggy so the blocks will prob need to be shorter - we'll see how we go.




Monday, October 11, 2010

Murray's Baptism (10/10/10)

Yesterday (1oth of the 10th 2010!) was Murray's Baptism. It was such a lovely day, somewhat exhausting, but a really special occasion.

My mum and I headed up to the church in the morning and started to deck out the family room in the church house. I had to have an emergency run to the supermarket as we didn't have enough tablecloths, but in the end and thanks to my mum and sis (who arrived with the cakes - one fruit and one wheat and dairy free) the room looked lovely. My sis had decorated the cakes and I think they looked just fab!


Fruit Cake


Wheat and Dairy Free Cake


We got Murray changed into his gorgeous wee outfit as late as possible and then as Murray started to get tired and grizzly Al took him for a drive around in the car so that he could get a sleep before the ceremony! I'm so glad we did that because he was such a good boy - even when I had to stop feeding him to be baptised! He could have screamed the house down provided he didn't throw up in the font but he did neither. The Canon is so lovely and the ceremony was really relaxed and intimate. My mum and Al's mum each did a reading and our sisters were great as God mums.

Canon, Al, Murray and Me


Canon, God Mums, Al, Murray and Me


After the ceremony we all went to the family room for cake and coffee.

Murray and Me eyeing up the cake!


Al, Murray and Me.


Aunty Helen (My sis) and Murray


It was so good to see lots of friends and family and for some of them to meet Murray for the first time.

After cake the families and my friend Emily and her boys came back to our house for bubbly and buffet lunch/dinner. As always I bought far too much and so I'm going to spend the next week eating it all up - I think I'll be inviting various folk here to help out!

Al's Family


The 2 families looking at baby photos of Al and laughing at how much Murray and him look alike as babies!!! No kidding, it is freaky how alike!


Murray was exhausted come 5pm so we did an early bath and bedtime last night. Thank goodness because we were shattered too! He was all smiles again this morning and came down for a morning cuddle with Aunty Fe before she had to leave for the airport.



Al's Parents then looked after Murray while I went to running club and Al took Fe to the airport. It was GREAT to run with everyone at first and then my friend Liz when everyone else went on for a longer run. I was hoping I was running at a good pace but thought it might just be because I was on my own, but I was able to keep up with Liz quite well AND still be able to chat so I was well chuffed. I did 2 x 10 min running blocks + 1 x 11 min running block with 4 mins walk warm up, cool down and rest breaks. I hope to get out again this week so that I will have run twice in a week and my next progression will be to reduce the walking sections.




Thursday, October 7, 2010

Well Done Me - nothing like positive affirmations to give your self a boost!

Exercise

A great week so far:
Mon: 50 mins Pilates + 3 mile walk with buggy
Tue: 60 minute spin (30km = 6 mile run) + 3 mile walk with buggy
Wed: 30 mins Pilates
Thursday: 4.5 mile run (3 x 10 min running blocks with 4 min recoveries + 2 min jog cool down)

Friday: I hope to do another spin tomorrow which will take mileage to 20.5
Sat: I hope to do 50 mins Pilates

I really enjoyed my run this morning. It really felt like proper running! Definitely at my limit though so steady, steady.

Rather Proud of Myself

Al's back from his course and off for the next few days. I am rather proud of myself for coping without him, especially given that Murray threw up loads yesterday - we are talking porridge lava flowing out of his mouth. I had to go home from my friend's house in her clothes as not only did Murray need changed, so did I. My friend is quite a bit taller than me (well most folk are) so her track pants were dragging along the ground as I walked up the street to my car! OMG I looked ridiculous. He then did a repeat effort at bed time - honestly I was so over the puking. We had been trying to wean him off the gaviscon but b#@@er that, especially as it is his Baptism on Sunday - I don't think the Canon would appreciate porridge puke flowing into the baptismal font!

It's going to be a busy few days as Al's parents arrive tomorrow afternoon and then we will pick up his sister from the airport on Saturday. The baptism is on Sunday so my family and friends will be arriving and then on Monday Al's family head home. In addition to that, I need to get Murray an outfit - I had bought one online, but when it arrived he was swamped in it, so I'll be hitting the shops big time tomorrow in order to get him and myself an outfit and do the food shop. Thankfully I can leave Murray with Al or I would never get it all done!

Physio Appointment

I have my appointment with my women's health physio tomorrow to check how everything is doing. I know things are very much improving, but I do have a few queries so it will be good to see her.


Sunday, October 3, 2010

Spin + Puke!

Spin

Today I had planned to go for a run so Al did first feed while I had breaky so I could get out before Mass. Just as I was about to go out I looked out and the weather was awful. If I was just running I'd have probably forced myself out, but with walking breaks I just thought - ugh! I REALLY wanted a workout so I wondered if I could manage my spinning bike and as it turned out it was fine and I was able to do the whole spinning DVD which gave me a great workout. I did 30km (equivalent of a 6 mile run) which brought my weekly mileage up to 20 miles so was well chuffed.

Puke

Poor Murray threw up big style last night and was then really upset after (when he's thrown up in the past he's been all smiles) and as he had been rather cranky all day I was quite worried. It took quite a while to calm him but eventually we did and he took a feed and got him settled. Apparently babies can throw up when they teeth. He was really in gum pain again this afternoon after Al had left but a dose of calpol took the edge off I think. I was a bit concerned he was going to be like that all afternoon(thank goodness my sis was here) but the calpol calmed him a bit. He fed well tonight and is now in bed - phew!

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Jabs, Teething, Exercise, Admin Assistant + Home Alone

Jabs

Murray had his 2nd set of jabs on Wednesday (12 weeks + 6 days). The health Visitors hand slipped a bit as Murray moved just at the wrong moment so I nipped a wee bit I think judging by the scream that erupted from his toes. He screamed so loud he was sweating! A wee dose of Calpol when we got home and he was sparko for 2.5 hours. When he woke up all was forgotten and he was on good form!

Teething

Murray has had a mixed week - Tuesday was really grizzly, so much so I thought I was going to have to cancel meeting my running friends for afternoon tea at a lovely hotel. In the end I went and while not on his best form was OK. He was pretty grizzly on Thursday pm too which confused me as he had slept in the car to and from meeting with my mum friends and then again today he's been grizzly and hot (he's been hot all week actually - not feverish but just running warm) and then when I changed his nappy today, it was soooo stinky and I remembered the HV saying teething can do that, so I had a look in his mouth and sure enough he had wee white spots on his top gum. He has been drooling like crazy and is chomping down on anything that comes near his mouth. Poor wee thing. Trouble is - how long does it go on for?

Exercise

It's been a pretty good week. Now I'm not expressing in the morning I've got more Pilates in.

Mon: 2240m swim (5.5 miles)
Tue: 50 min Pilates
Wed: Rest
Thurs: 50 min Pilates + 4.5 mile walk
Fri: 4.3 mile Run/walk (28 mins running in 7, 6, 5, 4, 4, 2 min blocks. 4 min walk warm up / 2 min walk cool down + walking blocks of 4, 3, 2, 1, 1 mins) Total time out = 45 mins. I'm quite pleased that my running must be at a reasonable pace as that is just over 10 minute miles including my walking. The last 2 mins were not speedy though as I felt pooped and I actually feel quite sore (legs) today. I don't care about sore legs though - that is just fitness, I'm just pleased that everything else is behaving!
Sat: I had thought I'd go for a walk but to be honest my legs are really quite sore and I feel quite tired so thought my body could do with the rest.
Sun: I hope to get out for something tomorrow to bring weekly mileage up to at least 18 so that I've averaged 20 miles over the last 2 weeks.

Admin Assistant

Al took the day off yesterday so that I could go down the centre and train up my new admin assistant. I hated being away from Murray and getting back after he was in bed. I do not want to go back in Jan but hey ho. I'm hoping to phase back in and do only 2 days at first. It also made me realise how much stuff I need to catch up and I came home feeling a smidge stressed. It is horrible leaving things in other folks' hands. Nevermind, I'm sure it'll all work out in the end.

Home Alone

Al goes down to London for a training course tomorrow until Wednesday night so I will be home alone - yikes! I hope Murray's gums aren't too sore!

Sunday, September 26, 2010

21 Minute Run + Cradle

Hoorah, yesterday I managed a 21 minute run!

It was a gorgeous morning and so we all went out as a family. Al pushed the buggy while I warmed up walking next to him. Once we had reached 'the beach' I took off my track pants and warm tops (it was sunny but chilly) and set off for my first running block. I had planned to do the following:

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 minute running blocks with 4 minutes rest in between but with the knowledge that if at any time I was sore to simply finish the loop walking.

I was so pleased to be able to do all running blocks and the I only had 3 or 2 minutes walking between the 3 and 2 and the 2 and 1 blocks respectively. I got around the whole of Lady Mary's so did 3 miles in total although not all at a run. I felt pretty comfortable running and wasn't sore at all. That was definitely enough though as although not sore I just knew that was just before the full limit of my abilities for that day.

So a good exercise week all round:
I make it 22 miles + 50 minutes Pilates.

I really want to try and get in more pilates, but ironically it is the hardest thing I find to do. Walks are 'easy' as Murray just get whizzed into the buggy post feed and off we go. Swim or gym I have to arrange with mum, so I keep the date, plus Murray is looked after, but Pilates relies on me getting the opportunity when Murray is asleep which is basically never once he is up in the morning! Hopefully now I won't be sitting expressing for an hour I might get the opportunity between 1st and second feeds when he usually goes back to sleep.

Cradle Time
Murray is now out of his Moses basket and into the cradle in our room. He looked so big in the Moses basket, but looks tiny again in the cradle. I can't imagine how tiny he would look in nthe big cot!

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Murray's First Adventure and General Roundup

We had our first family holiday last week and it was great fun. We stayed at the Pine Bank Chalets in Aviemore http://www.pinebankchalets.co.uk/ and I can whole heartedly recommend them.


They might be a bit chillier in winter but ours had spare heaters so I'm sure they'd be fine - just pack some cosy jammies!



We drove up on the Monday once we had finally finished packing. My God; Murray was up as usual about 6am so he was fed and thankfully then had another good sleep after his feed so we were able to pack our own things. Despite that however we still didn't manage to get away until about noon! We had hoped to make it to the House of Bruar for lunch and to break up the journey but as Murray was due to feed about 12.30pm we only made to Bankfoot about 40 mins up the road!!!! Hee Hee! We actually had a really nice lunch there and it worked out perfectly as Murray fed while we ordered and then our food arrived just after he had been fed and burped so was happy to sit in his car seat while we ate. This also meant that at least half an hour had passed since he had fed before he had to go back in the car (we can't drive before half an hour or he'll throw up big style!!!!). Murray seems to have developed an aversion to the car - I think he gets travel sick as he will get quite upset at some point on most journeys now but thankfully he had a good sleep and woke with only 15 minutes or so to go. We arrived in perfect time to check in, unpack and feed Murray. We were a bit worried Murray might not settle as well as he does at home, but bath and feed at bed time and off he dropped to sleep letting mum and dad have a couple of glasses of wine.




Tuesday

We weren't sure where would be best for walks with the buggy and as the weather wasn't great in the morning we decided to head in to town and gets some info from the tourist office and potter around the shops. I found a brilliant pair of waterproof trousers in my favourite outdoor shop that has the BEST cafe upstairs. The trousers are Montane and velcro tight at the bottoms so you don't trip when running and are super light weight too. We had lunch in the Mountain Cafe upstairs and Yummy cake as they always have at least 1, often 2 wheat and dairy free cakes. Such good food. While we were having lunch it belted down with rain, but by the time we left it was dry. We decided to drive to the car park at Loch an Eileen and walk around it (3 miles) and it was sooo pretty. It was a bit chilly but it stayed dry so we were really lucky.



Wednesday

Thanks to the wee trail map we were given at the car park yesterday we were able to see all the different trails in the Rothiemurcus estate and so decided to do a 5 mile loop that we could do from the chalet. It was absolutely lovely lots of caledonian pine interspersed with views across to the mountains and strathspey.


We found a lovely restuarant in the Rothiemurcus visitor centre for lunch and as we could walk home had a cheeky wee lunch time tipple - it's official, I am a lightweight - I felt decidely tipsy tootleing home.



Thursday

The weather was foul on Thursday so we took Murray swimming. He was soooo cute in his wetuit ( http://www.twobarefeet.co.uk/ ) and it helped him to last 15 mins.



He could have gone longer I think but I didn't want to over do it, plus WE were freezing!!!! Another lunch in the mountain cafe and then I got to the gym while Al looked after Murray.

My 2 men chilling out in the afternoon.




Excitement upon excitement I tried my first wee run. I managed 7 mins on the treadmill. It was longer than I expected but I didn't want to do more as I wanted to get a workout on the x-trainer.

Friday

We managed to get out for check out at 11am and drove leisurely down the road to The House of Bruar so we got a lunch there after all. A lazy lunch and wander around the deli and stores and we were happy to head home. We got back in time for Murray's mid pm feed and then I showered, expressed and had an early tea before heading out to my friend's house (an hour away) for my first girls' night post Murray. It was great and Al was happy for me to stay overnight so I could have a few drinks. It felt very weird not to be with Murray in the morning but it did feel great to have had a night out! The night came at a great time because Al was at home so I could get ready and get out at a reasonable time and he knew the routine as he had been helping / doing it all week so was confident he knew what to do. He was feeling right pleased with himself when I got home the next day and so he should too!

Playing with Murray before I headed out for my night out.


So cute he was totally stroking it.


My Second Run

I got out for another run on Sunday. I headed out from the house and walked for 5 mins before breaking into a jog for 5 mins. I then walked for 3 mins and did another run block of 5 mins. I turned around and headed home at that point and after 6 mins of walking ran for a final 4 mins. I had planned to run for 5 but 4 was enough and so just walked home. I had definitely reached my limit as I did try another try a wee bit later but it just wasn't comfortable at all so I was pleased to have stopped especially as I wasn't sore the next day. It's a far cry from what I was able to do even at 34 weeks pregnant but it is a start and hopefully I will be able to keep building on that.

12 Weeks Today

Murray is 12 weeks today - how on earth did that happen? I am a mum of a 3 month old! As such I am going to start winding down the expressing. It takes me an hour each time I pump now and it is pretty exhausting as I'm pumping when I could be resting or exercising or housework or anything. Plus it is starting to hurt a little as I'm on for so flipping long while getting less. He's had 3 months of breast milk and while I would have loved for him to have more I'm pleased under the circumstances that he had this long. Swapping to expressing and bottles was sooo the right decision and allowed him to get another 3 - 4 weeks of breast milk. I didn't realise how much the breastfeeding was getting me down until I swapped and realised I wasn't dreading feeds any more.

Exercise

Sun: 3 mile walk with 14 mins running
Mon: 2.2km swim(equiv to 5.5 mile run) + 2.5 mile walk
Wed: 50 min Pilates
Thurs: 4 mile walk pushing buggy.

Aim to get to gym tomorrow for gym or swim and doing equiv of miles to make a 20 mile week - my best yet. Hopefully on Sat I can Pilates again. I'm also looking forard to my next attempt at a run. 14 mins or anything above that will be great.

I know this was a long blog post but as the expressing takes an hour by the time I've put Murray to bed, made and ate dinner, expressed, sterilised bottles for the morning etc etc I just haven't had time to blog. Maybe now I'll have more time.