June 27, 2012

Visit with the ENT!

Yesterday was James' long awaited appointment with the ENT specialist. The appointment didn't go exactly the way I imagined it. It was anti-climactic. He checked James ears and said that he still sees that he has an infection and we talked about his history, what medicines he's been taking and their effectiveness. Then he said that he'd recommend getting the tube surgery.

I had a feeling this was going to happen. I was so sad at this point. He quickly described the procedure that they go in, drain the fluid and insert a tube. It would take about 5 minutes to do and we'd notice an improvement.

I was skeptical to book the appointment on the spot so I decided to wait. I am in two minds. James is constantly getting an ear infection every time he has a cold. Then he takes some antibiotics and feels better, but the infection still takes weeks to heal. So we could continue on this path, however there will be so many antibiotics in his system, straining his liver and making him resistant needing stronger medicines. Or we can opt for the surgery. Downfall of that is having James under anesthesia, ear drum ruptured and drained, then a tube placed. Afterward I hear it's about 2 days recovery then special earplugs when in water.

Due to our wonderful (sarcasm) healthcare system, James can't even have the surgery for at least 2 months. What are we to do in the meantime? My mom suggested we see an osteopath, I think we will. Who knows, it might help him deal with the pain and discomfort. Poor James has lost his appetite and we are trying to encourage him to eat some food. Hope this hunger strike is over soon.

Have you had to take your little one to an ENT or osteopath for chronic ear infections? If so share your story!

Happy reading!

Rachel

June 25, 2012

Center Island Fun Day!

On Saturday a friend arranged that we all take the kiddies to the zoo on Center Island so that they could see all the animals that we sing about. There were a few RSVP's but in the end only two of us made it. Getting to the island requires taking a ferry that runs every 30 minutes. Normally this isn't an issue, but on the weekends the lineup for tickets is insane. Luckily we had purchased tickets last year that were were able to use for the trip.

As Adit hurt his heel from a recent bike accident, he's been ordered to stay off his feet. This meant he wasn't going to join my mom and I because it was a 20 minute walk to the ferry, then about a 15 minute wait for it, and once on the island a walk to the farm. Getting on the ferry was a struggle. We were determined to make it on so my mom took James and went ahead. I figured once she was on they'd have to let me on too. It was a great plan because that's exactly what happened. Once on the island it was a short walk to the farm.

When we arrived I called my friend Mala to meet up. However she got on a different ferry so they had to walk 3km to meet us. It was a beautiful day and they enjoyed the scenic walk so it worked out for them. Since we were at the farm for awhile James got to see all the animals. His favorite were the goats! Initially he would go up to the fence, laugh and run away. Then little by little he stayed longer and longer until he started putting his hands through the gates and didn't want to leave. Lol!

We let him walk around by himself a little since he would throw a tantrum if I held his hand. (Side note: I need advice on getting him to hold my hand) However instead of walking he wanted to run an chase after the ducks. Lol! He was running and pointing to them saying something in baby talk, it was so funny. Of course the ducks retreated to the canals, but James was determined to get them and he tried to go there too.

After the zoo we took him to an open field, spread a blanket, and encouraged him to sit down. It was a nice thought, but unlikely since there were many kids playing with balls and running around. So off he went to join in on the fun. There was a family of a mom and three kids chasing a ball, James quickly became a 5th member. They were nice and let him play too. After they left we gave him his ball and he ran around kicking it. It was amazing to see his coordination as he ran he could kick it up to 4 times in a row. What a little soccer player. :)

After running around he got tired so it was a fast nursing session then he napped. My mom and I just sat on the blanket and enjoyed the fresh air and entertainment. It was the Dragon Boat Festival on the Island so there were bands and events happening. Once we heard an announcement that the last performance was going up we decided it was time to leave to beat the crowds. I quickly and gently placed James in the stroller and made a B-line for the ferry. We were relatively close to the front of the line so I knew we'd get on the next one.

The ferry ride was relaxing, but long as we were on an older ferry. What was annoying was seeing a boat that left after us already docked and pulling out again as we were just about to dock. However I can't complain because James slept through the long rider despite all the noise from the boat and passengers. Once back on land my mom and I quickly walked home as we didn't want to take any chances of James waking up. I say this because James waking up = me carrying him home and he's not that light anymore. Luckily he was pooped and slept the entire way home. He awoke in the elevator which was perfect!

He was happy to see Dada so they played, then he had dinner, and had his bath. Since it was the last night my mom was there, we extended his bedtime a little. Then as I was nursing him around 9 I got a text from Mala to meet up for drinks. I was tired but then I thought that I'm always tired and it's rare that Adit and I get the opportunity to do something together as a couple so I accepted.

We met for drinks and dessert which was a great time. It was so nice to hang out and not have to worry about James. Once he's asleep he'll stay asleep unless he's sick and since he wasn't my mom had no issues with him. Adit and I got home late then went to sleep as James is an early riser. I really enjoyed my Saturday and hope you had a great one too!

Happy reading!

Rachel

PS: Don't forget to enter the drawing to win Smilebox for a year for free. Click here for details! Also this collage was made with Smilebox!



June 22, 2012

15 Month Check-Up!

We went to see the doctor on Tuesday for James' 15 month checkup. This was supposed to be a tough appointment because at this age they get another immunization. However since James was on antibiotics and suffering from an ear infection we postponed it for a couple weeks.

At this appointment we were happy to hear that he put on some weight and that he's developing well. We also discussed his ear infections. This is like number 6 for James and we desperately need to see an ENT. Unfortunately our appointment isn't until the end of July. His doctor thinks that he's unable to drain the fluid in his ear and that's why he keeps getting infected. Essentially she thinks it's just the same infection that had never gone away.

For treatment she suggested going on a low dose antibiotic everyday until the appointment. Before she makes a final decision she's referring to the pediatrician. I am very worried about that idea and the idea that James might need surgery to have tubes put in. This means he'd have anesthesia, which is completely horrifying for me.

I'm praying that there is a solution that doesn't require surgery. Also I am so upset that we have to wait until July to see the ENT. If we were in the states we would have seen an ENT the next day. It upsets me that James has had 2 infections since we've been waiting for an appointment. I've already called the doctor and have asked to be wait listed for cancellations. I've left a message at the doctor's office today requesting an earlier appointment, so let's see if that works.

Otherwise we discussed his allergy again. No progress there since I haven't introduced milk products. The good news is that since he's 15 months we can now do an allergy test so the office will make an appointment for that. James is still nursing and only drinking my milk. It's not enough, but I am against trying soy milk and although I hear almond milk is good, I'm afraid he could react to the nut. This is because his doctor suggested that we stay away from other highly allergic foods, so I'm heeding her advice.

Otherwise James is having a great week. He's eating his food at daycare, napping 2 hrs/day, playing and a ball of energy. My mom has taught him how to kick a ball so now he runs around the condo chasing the ball. Looks like James might take after his mommy and be a little soccer player!

Happy reading!

Rachel

PS: Don't forget to enter the giveaway, click here for details!

June 17, 2012

Busy Saturday!

Calling Saturday busy would be an understatement! My mom flew in around 1:15 then we went off to a party for one of our close friend's daughter. She turned 1 and had a backyard bash! We had a lot of fun at the party as there was great food, a little pool for the kids, lots of space to run, a tent to keep shade, and great company. James enjoyed running around, but was a bit wobbly so I had to keep a close watch on him.

James had a fever on Thursday so I stayed home with him. His fever seemed to be better in the afternoon, however it started up again on Friday morning. I knew something was up so decided to take him to the emergency. As I knew it would be near impossible to get an appointment at his regular doctor. After getting checked out it seemed like he had a virus. Then I told the doctor that he's prone to ear infections and asked him to take a look.

We assumed the hold position that James was all too used to, so of course he was fighting. The doctor tried to see, but both ears where blocked with wax. He left to room to get something to clean it. When he retired he had a long metal rod. I got nervous. I said that there was no way James would hold still for him to use that. He said that he would if I held his arms. I trusted him knowing that I'd scoop up my child if he was still flailing. Luckily James was calm and allowed him to clean the wax. There were huge chunks in there. It was nuts. I even took a pic to show Adit. Lol! But after that we heard that he does have a double ear infection. :(

So now that you are up to speed, that's why James was so wobbly. Otherwise he's a steady walker. James is still such a happy baby despite how he feels. In any case he had a great time and there were a couple dogs in the yard that James followed pointing at them. It was funny.

After the party we headed home, gave him dinner that he actually ate meaning that his food strike is nearing an end. Then he had a bath and went to bed. While nursing him I checked my phone since I didn't all day. I had many messages about a girls's night. I completely forgot that I was meeting the girls tonight and the best part of forgetting was that I planned it! Lol!

After James was asleep I quickly got ready and left to meet the gang. We went to a little place that had a patio. It was a drinks and dessert night, but since two of us didn't have dinner we opted for some yummy calzones. They were really good. we enjoyed catching up and had great conversation. Initially I thought I'd be home around 11:30, but I got home at around 1:00am! None of us wanted the night to end!

I had a great day at the party and amazing night with the girls! Hope you had a great Saturday too!

Happy reading!

Rachel

PS: Someone enter the draw! No entries yet so amazing chance to win! Click here for details on entry!

June 14, 2012

Look What I Can Do - 15 Months!

Since James just turned 15 months yesterday it's the perfect time to discuss his milestones!

According to Baby Center, James should be able to play with a ball, use three words regularly, and walk backwards. So check, check, check!

He should also have the following emerging skills: scribbles with a crayon, runs, and adopts 'no' as his favorite word. Well he does scribble with a crayon or marker, but he uses it more like a bingo dabber. He definitely runs around so we got that covered. Lastly he doesn't say 'no' yet, instead he shakes his head no.

Then for advanced skills they suggest that he helps around the house, I don't consider his mischief when unpacking the dishwasher help. However he does put balls and toys back into containers sometimes. Also when he doesn't want more snacks he puts them back in the container. He would also be advanced if he put his fingers this mouth to say 'shhh', which he doesn't do.

That's it for milestones, but here are some more skills that I've seen. James climbs up everything, especially our bed and couches. He pulls on Adit or I to help himself up. He can use a spoon and gets food in his mouth with it. James can open some pop off lid containers and tries to put them back on. Other than those my mind is drawing a blank as that's all I can remember today.

Happy reading!

Rachel

PS: Don't forget to enter the Smilebox giveaway, by clicking here to learn how!

June 13, 2012

Got Jinxed!

James has been doing really well lately. He's enjoying daycare more and more everyday. He's also been feeling well, drinking his milk, eating lots of food, and playing non-stop! However a lot of people have been inquiring as to how he's feeling. The answer was that he's great. This was the case until I got the phone call from daycare late this morning. Of course getting jinxed is not the reason why James is sick, it's just a coincidence.

James has a fever of 102.7. :( As I wasn't available, they called Adit and he went to pick James up. First we suspected that it was teething so I called daycare to learn more. They advised that this high a temperature is unusual for teething. To learn more I googled it. Baby center advises that it could be possible to have a low grade fever, so temp under 100. Since James was higher, it must be something else.

When Adit picked him up his temp already started going down to 101. Adit took James home and I hear that he's already feeling better. I would have left work, but I had an important meeting that I couldn't miss.

Well I got home and James is ok. He's warm as he due some more Tylenol, but seeing that he didn't nap that's what he's doing now in my arms. This little guy will be just fine! He had a good rda with Dada and once he goes to sleep Adit and I can catch up on some work.

As I look at him cuddled up in my arms I can't help but think where did the time go. He use to be 2/3 this size and would fit on my lap, now he's legs hang over. James is 15 months today and the poor baby has a fever. Let's hope tomorrow is better.

Happy reading!

Rachel

PS: Don't forget to read yesterday's post called "Say Cheese to this Giveaway!"to win a year membership to Smilebox!

June 11, 2012

Say Cheese to this Giveaway!

Make a custom facebook cover collage with Smilebox.


I am so excited to share this giveaway with you all! This is a service that I've been using to do my collages on the blog - it's called Smilebox! The best part about Smilebox is that it transforms your ordinary photos and videos into an exciting, professional looking piece.

Check it out! You just need to download their software and you can immediately start making your masterpieces! :) Say you want to make a card, they have 100's of different choices to choose from and you can even alter the color and set it music. Once you're done you can post it to Facebook, email it, print it, or even burn it to a DVD. I like it because the collages are so fun and easy to make, plus once I'm done I can email it to anyone. SmileBox makes it easy to send pics to out of town family and friends!

When I signed up back in February there wasn't a free trial period an now the site is offering a 14-day trial! I suggest that you take advantage of it and give it a try! You definitely won't be disappointed! In fact, I've only really explored making collages, but there are so many other uses for me to try, ie Facebook Cover Collage, cards, invitations, announcements, scrapbooking, etc.

Create photo cards and more with Smilebox
Here's the best part about the giveaway, Smilebox is nice enough to giveaway free use of their site for an entire year to one of you lucky readers! All you need to do is sign up for the 14-day free trial on their website by clicking on the banner to the left! This is an amazing $40 value that you shouldn't miss! Just remember that you must use this link to qualify!



After signing up for the 14 day trial you can qualify for more entries just by doing any or all of the following:
  • Like Smilebox and Silly Baba, Silly Mama on Facebook by clicking on the names!
  • Become a follower on Silly Baba, Silly Mama! Click "Join this Site" on the right of the post. Remember that there are perks to becoming a follower, once participating in the giveaway they always get an additional entry!
  • Share this blog post on your Facebook page! Just click on the Facebook icon under "Share It" 
Once you've signed up and/or done some liking, sharing, or following leave a comment on the blog post with what you did so I know how you qualify! To keep it simple just write trial, like, share, follow and I'll know what you did.

As this is a big draw for a phenomenal prize we will do the drawing on Monday, June 25th!

Happy reading and Good luck!

Rachel

June 8, 2012

Break's Over - Wedding Weekend Summary!

Hey everyone,

Oh how I've missed writing you, it feels good catching up again. I've been on a much needed weeklong break because I was preparing and attending my brother's wedding last weekend. We drove to NY on Wednesday afternoon. It was a long 8 hour car ride that James enjoyed for the most part. We picked him up from daycare at 12:30 which was his nap time so he almost immediately feel asleep and napped for 1.5 hours. After he woke up I entertained him with songs, toys, snacks, food, coloring, etc. Oh and I almost forgot, lots and lots of nursing. As we didn't want to stop I nursed him while he was in his seat, this is comfy for James, but really kills my back. However it was well worth it to keep him happy. We got to my Aunt's house around 9:30 and tried to put James to bed. He refused to sleep. I nursed, rocked him, but nothing. Adit gave it a try and still nothing. Since he was in a new place and sleeping in a playpen I didn't want to let him cry a little to sleep so instead we took him downstairs to join the fun. He was running around the backyard in his PJ's with his two cousins. They were having fun high fiving each other! Then around midnight I brought him to bed with me and went to sleep, he did the same.

The wedding festivities started with the Mendhi on Thursday night, this is when the bride's hands and feet are decorated with henna. Guests are also invited to get some henna done, I got some on the outside of my hands, it has worn off already or else I would have shared a pic. This was a beautiful night with lots of laughs, family fun, music, dancing, and food. Moush looked gorgeous and her henna was so intricate and beautiful. This was when we really started feeling the wedding vibe. As always Moush's family was so sweet and threw an amazing party!

Friday night was the Garba. This was also another amazing night, the food was amazing and best of all I loved the Gujarti dances. The night started with one dance that Moush and he family started, then all the guest joined in. I picked up the steps and joined it, it was so much fun! However my stamina is limited and I started getting tired and took a break, I enjoyed watching the others dancing and so did James. James had the most fun this night, as he enjoyed running around the dance floor, playing with the older kids. In his excitement he overate and later puked on the dance floor. With the puking and excitement we decided it was bedtime since it was after 9. We took James to another room, changed him to his PJ's and put him to sleep in his stroller. Then Adit and I took turns going back to the hall while the other watched him.

Now the big day was Saturday! Moush booked hair and makeup for me so I was up and ready to go at 7:00am. The hairdresser was really good and gave me the soft curls I wanted. Makeup was also amazing as it was the first time I had airbrushed makeup! Everyone looked so beautiful. After that I went back upstairs and started getting James ready. However he wasn't very cooperative as he was kinda still sleepy from the night before. We got to the ceremony and went to the bridal suite. Moush looked breathtaking, she was such an elegant bride. The dress was perfect for her. :) Also all the bridesmaids looked so cute in their short coral dresses, it was a perfect color choice that looked great on everyone. After some time it was time to go in, we all lined up and James was hungry and tired. He was not in the mood to walk as ring bearer so I carried him down the aisle. He looked very serious looking at everyone was we walked down. Lol! Once we got to our seat he got a little scared and started balling so dada took him out. He returned soon after and watched the ceremony. It was a beautiful ceremony and very emotional. I did a reading and when we got to the vows I could see Moush starting to tear. I am such a crier so of course I started crying too. We all made it though the rest of the ceremony tear free with bright smiles. James was sleepy so I nursed and put him to sleep in the stroller. That was too bad because we took some family pics and James was asleep so missed out on those. However he did have ample opportunity to be in more pics.

After lunch we headed back to the hotel to get prepped for the rest of the evening. Next was the hindu ceremony and reception. Adit & I changed and packed James and my stuffed then headed back to the country club. We were early so we could take some family pics and James enjoyed walking around the pool and collecting rocks. In fact he brought them as props for the photoshoot. Lol! Can't wait to see these pics. James nursed and slept through the entire hindu ceremony so I wasn't able to see much as I was in a difficult position holding him and rocking him. However I did listen to the ceremony. When the ceremony was over James woke up and was ready to party. We all went downstairs to cocktail hour and didn't know where to start as there was so much food! We brought some food for James, but he didn't want to eat. Who could blame him with all that good food, so instead he indulged with some lamb! James loves his meat!

After cocktail hour it was time to go to the main reception. James, Adit, and I were walking in first and James was so pumped! He was running around, dancing, and couldn't wait to go out! I was so proud of James as he did a great job walking out and across the dance floor! He was very brave, but did get scared when the guests started clapping and cheering for the parents walk in so Adit quickly scooped him up and he was fine again. Next it was time for the first dance, Daniel and Moush looked so nice and did a beautiful dance the ended with a dip. I was so surprised that he could dance, I wonder who's idea this was? Actually who am I kidding, it was Moush's! Lol! After the dance it was time to be seated and listen to the speeches. Yes I did one too. I was so nervous, I'm done public speaking before, but for some reason I was all worked up. I was trying to compose myself, but not sure if it worked. I know the speech content was good, but the delivery could have been better. This is something I'll hit fast-forward to when I see the video! Lol! We forgot James' PJ's so Adit drove back to the hotel to get them. James was ready for bed so after we changed him I nursed him and he feel asleep. Since we wanted to keep James asleep we kept him out of the reception hall and moved outside. It was a little cool so we covered him with a thick blanket, James had the best sleep under the stars, breathing fresh air, and listening to the fountain in the pool.

After I had dinner and dessert I was itching to dance, so I grabbed the girls and we hit the dance floor! James stayed with dada and the boys outside. I had an amazing time dancing with Moush and my family. Afterwards I was telling Adit it was the first time I partied since James was born, so only 14.5 months later. Lol! It was nearing the end of the night so my mom volunteered to watch James so Adit and I could dance a little. I was overjoyed and happy to spend some time with him. We hardly get any time together so we cherished those last 15 minutes on the dance floor. I gotta say that they really had the best party music. So once the night was over we headed back to the hotel. There was an after party at the hotel, but instead we opted for the after party in our room which consisted of sleeping. Lol! We needed our sleep since we were driving back after brunch.

So basically that was the wedding weekend in a nutshell. Sorry I don't have many pics. We'll have to wait from the photographer ones. In the meantime here are a few that Adit snapped.





Happy reading!

Rachel