Convertible Car Seat/Christmas Present Ideas

My dear friend, Marci, needs your comments about infant car seats.

She writes, "I want to know if anyone has a CONVERTIBLE car seat.....Ky is a chubby monkey and will grow out of his infant seat really soon. So for Christmas he is gettin a new one and i would like help choosin a good one."

She also wants Christmas toy/gift ideas that she can give to Grandparents and family members. Cute little Kyler is 6 months so toys/gifts that are 6 months to one year would be perfect.

Weaning from Breastfeeding.

For the past few months I have been slowing trying to wean my Hallie from nursing. We are down to morning, night and before naps. As happy as I am with this I now want to cut out one of her nap feedings at a time until those too are not necessary.

My question is this: How do I get her to go to BED without nursing her? I know this may seem stupid but is there any other way besides letting her cry it out? AGAIN! I know several moms who put their baby to bed with a bottle or sippy cup of milk but I thought this was a no no because it can rot teeth.

Suggestions or Advice for ME?

Baby Sitter

What information SHOULD you leave with a baby sitter?

Holiday Traditions?

Amy asked a smart question that I never would have thought to ask, but now I want to know the answer to.

She asks, "Not all holiday traditions are REASONABLE to do with small children. What holiday traditions have you found to be successful with young children?"

Can't wait for your comments!

Baby's First Solid Foods?

It's been a while since we've had a question. HOORAY for Kate who asks,

"I am starting to introduce my little 6 month old to solids. So far I have only given him rice cereal. I'm wondering what foods would be best to offer next. I've heard MIXED opinions about green vegetables, yellow vegetables, and fruit. I am persuadable and hope to get some good advice!"

So mom's let's give some good advice.

Fast From Sweets?

Any one in for a fast from sweets next week? (meaning NO sweets!)

Oct 26-29

I know it's only 3 days, but hey you gotta start small.

(Plus it's Halloween!!)

Breastfeeding Challenges

So lately I have been having more than my share of BREAST issues. I went from having pain every time Hallie would eat to having cracks you know where, to a clogged milk duct, to mastitis. Yikes!! Good thing I have good friends who give advice, the internet, and antibiotics. All have really helped me. So here is what I've FOUND:

Symptoms of clogged milk duct:

The first sign of a plugged duct may be a small, hard lump that's sore to the touch, or a very tender spot in your breast. Some women also notice redness on their breast. You might also feel achy, run down, and feverish, which could be a sign that your clogged duct has become infected.

I had a large lump that was tender and didn't go away even after Hallie ate.

Treatment:

• Rub and massage the area while in a warm shower or bath.
• Apply moist hot packs to your breasts before feeding. The heat enables the milk ducts to open better and allows for better milk drainage.
• Use massage and heat on the affected side while you breastfeed. After applying heat and your breast is still warm, massage from your armpit down to your nipple.
• Avoid putting pressure on one area of the breast for an length of time and wear a comfortable and well fitted nursing bra.
• Get enough rest (I know that one is easier said than done!).

From: http://www.babycenter.com/0_clogged-milk-ducts_8494.bc

I rubbed and massaged it and fed Hallie frequently. I also placed a hot cloth on my breast for 10 minutes before and after I nursed. It went away. Another cool thing I found was instead of using a hot cloth which doesn't last long. Fill up a disposable diaper with hot water and wring out until it's not dripping and making a mess. Place it on your breast and the heat will last MUCH LONGER.

Symptoms of Mastitis:

• Breast enlargement on one side only
• Breast lump
• Breast pain
• Fever and flu-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting
• Itching
• Nipple discharge (may contain pus)
• Nipple sensation changes
• Swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth in breast tissue
• Tender or enlarged lymph nodes in armpit on the same side

This time things were way worse than before. I knew I needed to see the doctor.

Treatment:

• Self-care may include applying moist heat to the infected breast tissue for 15 to 20 minutes four times a day.
• Antibiotic medications are usually very effective in treating a breast infection. You are encouraged to continue to breast-feed or to pump to relieve breast engorgement from milk production while receiving treatment.

From: https://www.google.com/health/ref/Breast+infection

In my case I am currently on an antibiotic.

It hurts like H E double hockey sticks!

I hope this helps other moms to catch the symptoms before they get worse.

Any one else have something to add?