Returning to Work.
On Wed I had my first return to work day. I am very glad we had planned for Al to take the day off to look after the wee dude as it meant I could get ready for work without to try and feed Murray and could get showered in peace. I think I'll ask mum to come up a bit before I need to leave next week so I can get a shower and changed far more quickly. Also with it being Al looking after him I didn't need to explain too much and didn't need to worry about him not taking a feed. I think it will be harder next week because of that. It was good to see my old students and meet new ones. Also my Wednesday staff are really good fun so that was fun to see them. To be honest it all felt a bit surreal and I don't think I really felt like I was at work. I kind of felt like I was just in for that day and not again! Maybe it'll sink in a bit more next week. That being said, it must be sinking in a bit, as Al has requested to work from home part of the week and I phoned to view a nursery next week! OOOOOOOH so sad the thought of leaving him! Phasing back in is definitely a good way for me to do this process. At least I remembered how to teach! LOL!
Weaning
For the past week I've just been giving Murray finger food 'a la' Baby led weaning technique as he would happily put food into his mouth if he was in control. He wasn't eating anything except for the odd thing that must have gone down judging from the choking going on! What it did let me do was 'spoon' food into his mouth with his finger food a let him get used to the texture and I think a little bit of swallowing was gradually going on. Anyway we have definitely had progress as the past few days he has swallowed a reasonable amount. He's still a bit funny with the spoon as he likes to teeth on it, but I've found if I let him do that and then move it into the middle of his mouth he will eat it and today we even had a few proper mouth openings! Keep going Murray - you're doing fab! I'll keep up with finger food in conjunction with the smoother food, as hopefully then he will transfer to lumpier food and finger food without the difficulties he has had from milk to purees.
Swimming
We had swimming again today and despite swallowing a big glug of water which made him gag and throw up some milk (sooo glad the whole feed did not follow and that I managed to get him out of the pool so the other babies weren't swimming in throw up) he really enjoyed it again. He actually started smiling and giggling when I lay him down on the change table in the cubicle so I'm pretty sure he knew what was coming. He didn't do so well on his back today but as he had just thrown up a little I think he just wanted a wee cuddle so that's what he got!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
Last Full Week of Maternity!
This is my last full week of maternity leave - Yikes! I wish I could say I can't wait to start back at work, but I can not. I can't bare the thought of not being with my wee dude. I love being a full time mummy. It is incredibly demanding and some days are really tough (they usually involve teething and vomit) but they pale into insignificance when you go to a swimming class and Murray is all smiles or you play 'splish splash' in the bath and he almost splits a rib he belly laughs so hard, or he sits for the first time, or, or, or - there are just so many amazing moments and I don't want to miss any of them.
Anyway I start easing back to work with just 1 day a week for then next 6 weeks and then there are just 3 weeks to the Easter break so it shouldn't be too tough at first. I'm really glad I'm doing it this way as it means both Murray and I can get used to it. I think the hardest thing is going to be the tiredness. At the mo' I regularly go to bed by 9 (the past 2 I've been in bed by 8.30pm - I know I'm a total saddo) but when I'm at work I finish teaching at 8.30pm and often don't get away until 9.30pm so don't get home until 10.30pm. OMG! I will be zombie!
Weaning
I had hoped that by staying off until end of Jan I would have Murray's weaning well under way, but unfortunately Murray has other ideas about this. He just does not want to eat solids. I can usually get 1 or 2 teaspoons in and after that he simply clamps his mouth shut and will have none of it. I've tried fruits, veggies, rice, porridge, runny, thick, on a spoon, on a finger. The best I get is by letting him hold the spoon, but all he really wants to do is teeth with it!!! I tried bread and bread stick today on the advice of my health visitor and although he thoroughly enjoyed gnawing on it, when it came to swallowing he choked big time. I was so glad my mum was here as she promptly told me to tip him upside down and whack his back which did the trick, but it was horrible!!!!!
I was reading a book the other day that said that many babies with reflux do have problems starting solids. Some are fine and it solves their problems but others have negative association with feeding and this transfers to solids. It definitely makes sense, but I really wonder how we are going to get past this. This is another good reason for phasing back to work slowly as hopefully in the next 6 weeks we will have made significant progress.
Swimming
Murray and I went to a swimming class together for the first time last week. We both really enjoyed it and can't wait for our class this week. The teacher was excellent and gave me loads of confidence.
Exercise
Over the past few weeks I have hit my 24 - 30 mile target, but none of it has been through running. It has all been via spinning and gym work. I can't say I'm overly enthusiastic about it, but at least my fitness has been progressing / staying with me until things can be worked out.
I'm enjoying my Pilates a lot and really love the DVD Al got me for my Christmas.
The snow has all melted now and I must say it has been great to get out for a few walks with Murray in the buggy to get us both some time in the fresh air and trails. It definitely helps with keeping me positive which to be honest is getting progressively harder and harder to do. I know I am the luckiest mummy alive to have such a beautiful baby, but it did come at quite a cost to my body and I am definitely having problems coming to terms with that. I'm really hoping over time, things will get better and some questions will be answered. In the mean time I've entered the Ben Nevis race (hopefully I'll get a place) and just hope and pray that come September I can toe up on the start line and thrash my lungs and legs belting up and down that fabby mountain. Lots of positive vibes my way please!
Anyway I start easing back to work with just 1 day a week for then next 6 weeks and then there are just 3 weeks to the Easter break so it shouldn't be too tough at first. I'm really glad I'm doing it this way as it means both Murray and I can get used to it. I think the hardest thing is going to be the tiredness. At the mo' I regularly go to bed by 9 (the past 2 I've been in bed by 8.30pm - I know I'm a total saddo) but when I'm at work I finish teaching at 8.30pm and often don't get away until 9.30pm so don't get home until 10.30pm. OMG! I will be zombie!
Weaning
I had hoped that by staying off until end of Jan I would have Murray's weaning well under way, but unfortunately Murray has other ideas about this. He just does not want to eat solids. I can usually get 1 or 2 teaspoons in and after that he simply clamps his mouth shut and will have none of it. I've tried fruits, veggies, rice, porridge, runny, thick, on a spoon, on a finger. The best I get is by letting him hold the spoon, but all he really wants to do is teeth with it!!! I tried bread and bread stick today on the advice of my health visitor and although he thoroughly enjoyed gnawing on it, when it came to swallowing he choked big time. I was so glad my mum was here as she promptly told me to tip him upside down and whack his back which did the trick, but it was horrible!!!!!
I was reading a book the other day that said that many babies with reflux do have problems starting solids. Some are fine and it solves their problems but others have negative association with feeding and this transfers to solids. It definitely makes sense, but I really wonder how we are going to get past this. This is another good reason for phasing back to work slowly as hopefully in the next 6 weeks we will have made significant progress.
Swimming
Murray and I went to a swimming class together for the first time last week. We both really enjoyed it and can't wait for our class this week. The teacher was excellent and gave me loads of confidence.
Exercise
Over the past few weeks I have hit my 24 - 30 mile target, but none of it has been through running. It has all been via spinning and gym work. I can't say I'm overly enthusiastic about it, but at least my fitness has been progressing / staying with me until things can be worked out.
I'm enjoying my Pilates a lot and really love the DVD Al got me for my Christmas.
The snow has all melted now and I must say it has been great to get out for a few walks with Murray in the buggy to get us both some time in the fresh air and trails. It definitely helps with keeping me positive which to be honest is getting progressively harder and harder to do. I know I am the luckiest mummy alive to have such a beautiful baby, but it did come at quite a cost to my body and I am definitely having problems coming to terms with that. I'm really hoping over time, things will get better and some questions will be answered. In the mean time I've entered the Ben Nevis race (hopefully I'll get a place) and just hope and pray that come September I can toe up on the start line and thrash my lungs and legs belting up and down that fabby mountain. Lots of positive vibes my way please!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
A Photo Gallery Update!
Too Cute!
I can stand no problem, but sitting, rolling and tummy time just seem like far too much hard work!
On the Ferry after a Fabby stay with Grandma and Grandda.
Pilates with Mummy.
Dress-up Fun with Grandma.
How do I look in Grandda's hat?
Look at all my new toys - thanks Daddy's Aunts and cousins!
Starbucks! Yum!
Mummy is trying to introduce me to this stuff that feels v weird in my mouth! I don't really like it so I close my mouth but she makes me laugh and sneeks it in! No fair!
A beautiful walk during the Festive Period. I love the winter Twilight light. You can see the frost mist on the valley floor.
It was quite slippy, Daddy had to be careful!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Hogmany Sitting + 6 Months Birthday
As well has turning 6 months, Murray sat unaided for the first time on New Years day. Well done my little Cherub! He hasn't done as well since but he is definitely getting stronger and doesn't simply fold in two straight away!
We had a lovely Hogmany. Our friends Morna and Richard came in the evening to stay over and I cooked a meal (Risotto with left over Christmas Turkey) which, if I do say so myself was rather yum! It was really nice to just sit round the table and have a few wines and some cheese and crackers. I eventually had to crash at 1am as the thought of 4 hours sleep before Murray was up suddenly hit me like a hammer. Yeah - it took some effort to drag my sorry butt out of bed to attend to Murray's needs. Cunningly I had taken a bottle, a carton of formula and his bottle warmer up to the bedroom so all I had to do was stagger into his room, pick him up, remember to turn off his alarm so it didn't scream at me and stagger back to our room where I could do his nappy and bottle before staggering back to put him down for another sleep. We very gratefully accepted the extra hour he then gave us! Our friends slept in until 11am and I was very jealous indeed. I can't even remember what that feels like to do!
So it is now 2011. I'd love to be making training and racing plans but alas it still cannot happen. I have to admit there are days when my 'progress' can really get me down. It is so frustrating because it is not my aerobic or muscular fitness holding me back (OK maybe they are a little but they are not the real issue. There are days when I actually wonder if I'll ever be able to get back to proper running at all I'm desperately trying to practise the art of patience but... Must focus on the positives (repeat several times).
We had a lovely Hogmany. Our friends Morna and Richard came in the evening to stay over and I cooked a meal (Risotto with left over Christmas Turkey) which, if I do say so myself was rather yum! It was really nice to just sit round the table and have a few wines and some cheese and crackers. I eventually had to crash at 1am as the thought of 4 hours sleep before Murray was up suddenly hit me like a hammer. Yeah - it took some effort to drag my sorry butt out of bed to attend to Murray's needs. Cunningly I had taken a bottle, a carton of formula and his bottle warmer up to the bedroom so all I had to do was stagger into his room, pick him up, remember to turn off his alarm so it didn't scream at me and stagger back to our room where I could do his nappy and bottle before staggering back to put him down for another sleep. We very gratefully accepted the extra hour he then gave us! Our friends slept in until 11am and I was very jealous indeed. I can't even remember what that feels like to do!
So it is now 2011. I'd love to be making training and racing plans but alas it still cannot happen. I have to admit there are days when my 'progress' can really get me down. It is so frustrating because it is not my aerobic or muscular fitness holding me back (OK maybe they are a little but they are not the real issue. There are days when I actually wonder if I'll ever be able to get back to proper running at all I'm desperately trying to practise the art of patience but... Must focus on the positives (repeat several times).
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!
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!
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.
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.
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