mama + mini

February 14, 2016

The Mama Behind the Mini: Our Pregnancy Journey

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Other than close friends and family, not many know much about our journey to conceive Niko. Getting pregnant was not as easy as many would think or had thought. There were more downs than ups and every month brought on even more heartache than the month before. There were days that I could not bring myself to get out of bed, as dramatic as that may sound. Getting pregnant was proving to be more difficult than I ever thought it would be. But every heart-wrenching, tear-filled bit of our journey was <i>so</i> <i>worth</i> <i>it</i>. </div>
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Ever since I was a little girl, I always knew that I was destined to be a mom. There was nothing else in the world that I wanted to be, than to be a mom. Others dreamed of being doctors or famous, you name it, but I always dreamed of having a large family of my own sitting at our long farmhouse table as we finger painted, played games and sat down for Sunday dinners. I was too naive to ever think that getting there could possibly be a difficult process. </div>
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For as long as I can remember, I have had issues with imbalanced hormones. My siblings always made fun of me about how "crazy" I was around that "time of the month," but I never thought that my mood swings were actually a sign that something was not right and could pose issues for getting pregnant later in life. It wasn't until months after Justin and I got married that I finally said something to my family doctor. We had been married for almost a year and each month I found myself without a cycle and a staring down at yet another negative pregnancy test. </div>
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I will never forget that hot July day when I received a phone call from my doctor telling me that I could possibly have PCOS and that they wanted to start me on medication right away. The doctor had mentioned that her sister had used the Metformin in the past and was pregnant in a month! I was so excited to get started. I felt so relieved! </div>
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Fast forward to September. Still no positive pregnancy test. Instead, I was even crazier than before, so sick from the medication, and feeling defeated. We finally decided that it was time to seek help from a specialist. We made an appointment for a few weeks out, as we could not get in any sooner, and I was anxious to finally get some answers on what was going on with my body. It's funny how you really have no idea how intricate and amazing the process is and what your body goes through in order to get pregnant, until you can't. </div>
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That first visit was challenging and scary and super emotional. I remember sitting there anxiously while I waited for the doctor to call us back. The visit was broken into three parts: the meet and greet, the examination, and the results. I have never been so anxious in my entire life. The whole visit felt like time was going in slow motion. During the examination, my ultrasound lit up like a Christmas tree. My ovaries were covered in little cysts. That's when the doctor officially diagnosed me with PCOS and more tests were done and more blood was drawn. However, the visit wasn't all bad news. My doctor was very positive that his plan to get me pregnant was going to work and that he had a high success rate in helping woman conceive. A part of me was relieved, but the other part was still trying to wrap everything that he was saying around my head. I knew it wasn't going to be easy and that we were not out of the woods yet, by any means. We still had a long road ahead of us. </div>
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By January 1st, I still had not gotten a cycle in almost a year and half. We started our treatment by taking Provera first to induce a cycle, then Letrozole. Being that it was the first cycle and we were still trying to figure out how my body would react to the Letrozole, the prescription was off and I spotted. We didn't end up getting pregnant. This was the first of several cycles that ended in heartache and disappointment, each one getting more difficult than the last. So many doctors visits, so many ultrasounds, and so many tears, I just didn't know how much longer I could do this. My poor husband was a saint throughout the entire process. He would just let me crawl in ball in his lap and cry day in and day out. I can't even imagine what he was going through, as I am sure it was just as hard on him as it was on me, if not harder. He was living with the constant heartache of not conceiving a child, but then also seeing his wife broken. </div>
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It was our last cycle. We were told going into this process that we were only going to get four cycles and if we were unsuccessful, we would have to run more tests and change our course of action. Well, our fourth cycle came and went and I was still not pregnant. When I informed the doctor of this, I asked for one last cycle. I just needed one last try. This time was a little different. We used an ovulation predictor kit, just as we did the cycle before, but this time there was something weird with it. For whatever reason, it wasn't working the correctly and we were confused with the results, so we just guessed and ran with it. I also had been running to NY and back, and then to West Chester and back multiple days that week for work. I thought for sure we were going to be faced with the same old results. But, I tried my best to relax and just let it be. A friend of my mother's told me her daughter always used Robitussin DM when trying to conceive and she swore by it. We literally pulled out every trick in the book that week. You name it, I tried it. </div>
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A week and a half later it was Father's Day and I went to go visit my parents. Halfway through dinner I said to my family, I am so sorry, but I need to take a nap. I literally could not keep my eyes open. The next morning, I called my mom on my way into work, as I do every day, and she asked me how I was feeling. I told her honestly, I feel really nauseous, come to think of it. I actually didn't think much of it, since I always have an upset stomach, which is probably due to my hormone imbalance. But, that weekend, while Justin was away, I took a pregnancy test, and it came back negative. I just could not believe it.  A part of me really thought this time was going to be our time. </div>
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June 24th, I was an emotional wreck. For as confident as I started out at the beginning of this cycle, I started to lose all confidence and the doubt took over. I cried for hours. I crawled onto Justin's lap and said, I know I am going to wake up tomorrow and I am not going to be pregnant, and I just can't keep doing this. I didn't know how I was going to move onto the next step.</div>
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The next morning I woke up sick with a fever and some sort of bug. I called out of work and stayed in bed. Around 9 am, there was still no sign of anything, so I decided to test again, not thinking anything of it. I placed the test on the bathroom sink and threw in a load of laundry to take my mind off the time, as it slowly passed. Finally, I got enough courage to peek around the corner of the bathroom to check the test. And, that's the moment my life changed forever! </div>
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featured, mamabehindthemini

The Mama Behind the Mini: Our Pregnancy Journey

Other than close friends and family, not many know much about our journey to conceive Niko. Getting pregnant was not as easy as many would ...

February 4, 2016

Check Ups: 11 Months!

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Here we are. 11 months already. I am just not ready to come to terms that in four short weeks we will have a one year old running around. How did we even get here? Everyone says that it goes by in a blink of an eye, but honestly, you cannot prepare yourself for how quickly time actually flies. There are so many wonderful things about time going by so quickly, though. Time can actually be on our sides. All of those rough, long days with little-to-no sleep eventually disappear, teething finally comes to an end, and changing 30 diapers an hour ultimately fades away.</div>
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Time with Niko is, and has been, <i>so</i> <i>bittersweet</i>; there is never enough of it. Watching Niko grow over the past 11 months has been an emotional rollercoaster, to say the very least. There is nothing more beautiful or rewarding than being a mama, but, at the very same time, there is nothing emotionally harder. In one aspect, I love watching Niko grow and seeing how quickly he picks up on new cues, I love the little person that he is becoming, and I love the bond that we have; the list never ends. On the other hand, it makes me so sad that he is no longer an itty bitty one-day-old baby, it makes me sad that our snuggling days are numbered, as he is more interested in exploring the world, and it makes me sad that I am already not needed in some aspects. However, with all of that being said, I am so glad and so grateful that he is growing healthily, that he is learning new things and developing at the right speed, and that we are just happily living life one day at time and soaking up all life's goodness that it has to offer!</div>
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So, with that said, here is Niko's 11 Month Check Up!</div>
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<b>Loves:</b> Loves to play with Brooks, dance, crawl around with something in one of his hands, take baths, get his teeth brushed, explore the house and cabinets, eat, and play with everything that he is not supposed to, such as cords, outlets, the dishwasher, etc. He loves being tickled, tossed around in the air, and when we are all being silly. He also loves play peek-a-boo and kiss the baby in the mirror. He just loves staring at and talking to himself!</div>
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<b>Hates: </b>Sleeping, naps, and basically everything that has to do with sleeping, but oddly hates waking up. Niko still hates getting in and being in his carseat, getting dressed, and having his diaper changed. In all honestly, not much has changed since he was a newborn. He still hates the same things now as he did then.</div>
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<b>Favorite Song: </b>Gonna Wanna Tonight - Chase Rice</div>
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<b>Doing: </b>Plays peek-a-boo and doka. Niko is kind of walking[ish], he is taking a few steps at a time, now. He likes to give hugs and kisses and wave bye-bye, and he is starting to understand what certain words mean, such as no, come here, and give me kisses. He also can point to your nose and eye when you ask where it is.</div>
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<b>Eating: </b>Niko loves to eat everything and anything. He is actually happiest when he is eating. His favorite things to eat are blueberries, pears, yogurt, toast with strawberry jelly, feta cheese, tomatoes, peas, carrots and everything that we are eating. We are currently working on eating snacks from a bowl, which is not going too well; he tends to just dump everything all over the floor.</div>
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<b>Sleeping</b>: We are finally back on a good sleeping schedule. The last couple of months have been really tough. Niko was sleeping through the night, then he stopped, then he was sleeping through the night again, and then the holidays came. The cycle never seems to end, but I am thankful that he is back to sleeping through the night. We try to put Niko down around 6:45-7 and he will sleep until 6:30-7 the next morning. Naps are still vary day-to-day, since each day is different. But, we get at least one mini nap in and one good nap. We are constantly working on his sleeping.<br />
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<b>Saying: </b>Niko is saying Mama, Dada, Doka, and lots of gahs, ahs, bahs, etc. We have not heard any actual words yet, but sometimes we swear he actually says things, though. This morning, it sounded like Niko said hello in reply to my hello. But, I don't think that counts. </div>

checkups, featured

Check Ups: 11 Months!

Here we are. 11 months already. I am just not ready to come to terms that in four short weeks we will have a one year old...

February 3, 2016

Niko's First Round Picks: Love It or Leave It

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I have such a love-hate relationship with almost everything we buy. I always leave with such high expectations; as if this new purchase is going to entertain Niko, give him a bath, run the vacuum, and fold all of the laundry, all while doing the dishes. And, although, many products do not live up to my unrealistic expectations by running around and doing my housework for me [I mean how amazing would that be?], I can usually find something about them that I like or could like. More often than not, I keep products around the house just because I love the idea of them and what they could be or should be doing and not because I actually need them or love them. </div>
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If you are about to register or browsing through the aisles of Babies R Us trying to decide whether or not you should spend the money on a particular item, stop by and check to see if the product has made the <i>love it</i> or <b>leave it</b> list. Maybe I can help sway your decision, one way or the other! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CGjnqROUzNnr9ec3AzaMhmMZs9KWL8L07y3ccV6qGHchtQUL9kVx_Y0iQEXiksyPa19zTiW4jnQMdUc8TaZewTwdbuXPNVggZjjbMtdTnPWbSe4SXlSyvwgNj-MMtP2ZmCoJoIkW3qI/s1600/Sleep+Sheep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CGjnqROUzNnr9ec3AzaMhmMZs9KWL8L07y3ccV6qGHchtQUL9kVx_Y0iQEXiksyPa19zTiW4jnQMdUc8TaZewTwdbuXPNVggZjjbMtdTnPWbSe4SXlSyvwgNj-MMtP2ZmCoJoIkW3qI/s1600/Sleep+Sheep.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=35598136">Cloud B Sleep Sheep</a> - I have to preface by saying that I am slightly obsessed with our Sleep Sheep and it has been a lifesaver for Niko. The Sleep Sheep drowns out the background noise of the house while Niko sleeps and helps keep him asleep. The only reason why I love-hate this product is because of the short timer. The timer can be set to either 23 minutes or 45 minutes, which really is not long enough for us. Sometimes, especially during nap time, once the timer goes off, Niko will wake up. I would love this product 10x more if there wasn't a timer. But, when it comes down to it our verdict still is: </div>
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<i>love it. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBukD8kgD9w_4ytytvkX0FEIVAqydMYHNRDBnogahjCrTqbO4ewlTHCEY7oFm5RLDVgllzeAO9dYb2SXd4W9QackOiwJzjKs1bOJ8SfpbT0vWiQmaTUIvpVSU0zZo7xjkDu58CoA7RU0/s1600/Arm+Cushion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBukD8kgD9w_4ytytvkX0FEIVAqydMYHNRDBnogahjCrTqbO4ewlTHCEY7oFm5RLDVgllzeAO9dYb2SXd4W9QackOiwJzjKs1bOJ8SfpbT0vWiQmaTUIvpVSU0zZo7xjkDu58CoA7RU0/s1600/Arm+Cushion.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12749576&cp=&parentPage=search">JJ Cole Infant Car Seat Arm Cushion</a> - In theory, I love this product. I love the idea of having a nice pillow to comfort my arm as I carry Niko around in his infant car seat. However, it does not actually do that. The arm cushion actually makes carrying the car seat more difficult, as it becomes awkward in the bend of your elbow, and it does not provide any relief for your arms. Not only does carrying your child become more difficult, but it becomes difficult to pull back and forth the shade, especially driving. In the end, the verdict is:</div>
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<b>leave it.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHjfsLuY34p8Jwlchc3auG8XFV8EtKNp_487OrfBkyGZeniBoLhYBnObnjZZhEppvfablEVUydCduXQ9RQJ6_4S1WKTsZyolAFIKd0T7IIu3CEJaVyqAq8XesZ8b6293Ijv0LlVGeohA/s1600/Drain+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHjfsLuY34p8Jwlchc3auG8XFV8EtKNp_487OrfBkyGZeniBoLhYBnObnjZZhEppvfablEVUydCduXQ9RQJ6_4S1WKTsZyolAFIKd0T7IIu3CEJaVyqAq8XesZ8b6293Ijv0LlVGeohA/s1600/Drain+Cover.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=42945866&cp=2254191.13129922.13067710.16492156&parentPage=family">Skip Hop Moby Bath Drain Cover</a> - Again, I love the idea of this product. I love that this product covers the drain to prevent any bumps or bruises, in the event of an accident. However, water somehow always gets under it and lifts the drain cover. The only thing that keeps it down is the one suction cup. Even though it sounds like I am not a huge fan of this product, it has prevented some bumps and bruises along the way, so our verdict has to be: </div>
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<i>love it. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWsaCUHtjAMoXisAYXUn-Nh-_5rbTUCm4oiooUPV4ShAp96BNeTQF9ToeuS0Z5RlG5s1Sr7OBtxRfhQzokK30mRRuA3XqwuVtw-Fz0q17K1rybyrIngnb2YUBGOGTpYREsa0vvXCroQR0/s1600/TUB+THERMOMETER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWsaCUHtjAMoXisAYXUn-Nh-_5rbTUCm4oiooUPV4ShAp96BNeTQF9ToeuS0Z5RlG5s1Sr7OBtxRfhQzokK30mRRuA3XqwuVtw-Fz0q17K1rybyrIngnb2YUBGOGTpYREsa0vvXCroQR0/s1600/TUB+THERMOMETER.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=42945856&cp=2255957.2273447.46475106.46474726&parentPage=family">Skip Hop Moby Floating Bath Tub Thermometer</a> - When we first got this product, I loved it. Niko loved having Moby float around the tub with him, and I loved knowing that Niko was comfortable and that the water was never too hot or too cold. But, about a week later, the battery had already died and I could no longer see the temperature display because water must have gotten in there and made the display window fuzzy. I loved it at first, but now, I have to say that the verdict is: </div>
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<b>leave it. </b></div>
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<a href="http://shop.4moms.com/shop-infant-tub?_ga=1.218105945.1300198197.1453925698">4moms Infant Tub</a> - Have you ever heard that having too much of a good thing can be a bad thing? That is how I feel about this tub. There are so many awesome attritbutes to this tub. One, it gauges the temperature for you. Two, it is constantly filtering out the dirty water, while fresh water flows through. Three, it is portable and fits in the tub perfectly. This tub may sound like it is one of those products that will do your housekeeping for you, but it does not live up to those expectations. I found it extremely difficult to bathe Niko in this tub because the shape was awkward and cramped. My overall verdict for the 4moms Infant tub is: </div>
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<b>leave it. </b></div>
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Hopefully you found this post helpful as you prepare for baby and get your registry together! Let me know how what some of your <i>love it </i>or <b>leave it</b> products are in the comments blow!</div>

nikosfirstroundpicks

Niko's First Round Picks: Love It or Leave It

I have such a love-hate relationship with almost everything we buy. I always leave with such high expectations; as if this new purcha...

January 30, 2016

Fives: Snowpocalypse and More

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For one of my blog series [<a href="http://mamaandminiblog.blogspot.com/search/label/fives">Fives</a>], I will be posting five things from that week, whether they are things that happened, things that we tried, things that Niko has learned to do, etc. This week has been a little crazy and out of the ordinary, and seemed to drag a little bit. For whatever reason, every day felt like Friday, but Saturday never came. I woke up every morning so disheartened by the fact that it was yet again, not Saturday. But, then it happened, Saturday is finally here! After we get the house in order, we are just going to snuggle all weekend because it is still freezing outside and I am not going anywhere! But, here are our top Fives from this week. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBI3qU18PmtrObhwVMv6P1THfA60g8Mmn5SLRRrrcNModEl7hHAgtLivq_pZ_N9WE9UI3hD2_r2_CEP2RujVRcZCWvoUBj-4HrL6ReUB__IES-CpwYV_5UFM0WB8M7ZQwbP_ocezwMTsw/s1600/IMG_5390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBI3qU18PmtrObhwVMv6P1THfA60g8Mmn5SLRRrrcNModEl7hHAgtLivq_pZ_N9WE9UI3hD2_r2_CEP2RujVRcZCWvoUBj-4HrL6ReUB__IES-CpwYV_5UFM0WB8M7ZQwbP_ocezwMTsw/s1600/IMG_5390.jpg" /></a></div>
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1. #Snowpocalypse2016 - As many of you were affected by the blizzard of 2016, so were we! It was the first snowfall of the season, but more specifically, it was Niko's first time seeing snow! I will never forget the look on his face when he looked up as snowflakes were landing on his lashes and his tiny button nose. He was in complete awe and amazement. However, that lasted about ten minutes. By the time Saturday rolled around and Niko and I had wrestled for 20 minutes getting him suited up, he was beyond over it. I am pretty sure he hated me, the snow, and not being able to move. We could not get inside fast enough to strip him out of his 18 layers so that he could crawl freely in his normal- more-comfortable clothes. But, once we were inside the nose-to-nose snuggle sessions made the snow day all better again. After many weekends of running around, it was so nice being snowed in all snuggled up. We did not have a care in the world this past weekend, and we did not feel guilty about it either! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE0MrjADFSDarTBa3mpuDScI7YBqJJCD67N023eseZBOu5Vz0vRMuGMS0_iuVrgIigtVmMvEvbUCALPqLgHiAls1HtFUh47EE71RRtIy3l2sIMDZExGAsehEy7WFXfZvuPEeSaPPAVXM/s1600/IMG_5506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE0MrjADFSDarTBa3mpuDScI7YBqJJCD67N023eseZBOu5Vz0vRMuGMS0_iuVrgIigtVmMvEvbUCALPqLgHiAls1HtFUh47EE71RRtIy3l2sIMDZExGAsehEy7WFXfZvuPEeSaPPAVXM/s1600/IMG_5506.jpg" /></a><br />
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2. We are still working with Niko on eating Cheerios from a bowl without dumping them all over floor and himself. We were only about 60% successful this time, but at least we are getting somewhere! I just keep telling myself that one day he will be able to eat out of a bowl or off of a plate without picking it up and turning it over, which will only make me more sad that he is getting big enough to eat properly. I mean, I just cannot win! HA</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemX4RVAXHlo2zoDvmC7L776nxlzqgL1J-20951vldaan2Aq_DOrS0HvS1JS7dgvGBsW1X5w-ZYlW5P0TXIciD21o8LV-xdmMWp2l6n6G5ZcQNB3zSAUduztork94eB8mM57IJu0_pfyg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-29+at+10.28.07+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemX4RVAXHlo2zoDvmC7L776nxlzqgL1J-20951vldaan2Aq_DOrS0HvS1JS7dgvGBsW1X5w-ZYlW5P0TXIciD21o8LV-xdmMWp2l6n6G5ZcQNB3zSAUduztork94eB8mM57IJu0_pfyg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-29+at+10.28.07+PM.jpg" /></a></div>
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3. mama + mini: the blog is finally up and running! This week, I finally figured out how to get my blog up and running and even got some posts written and posted. It has been a whirlwind of a week and I am not sure how I managed to do all of this work, but I did it and I am so proud of myself for figuring out all this techy stuff! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDi1gOfEotV9iVWQi3xmgBl3vOnUf2CnGJXKX2Erz129lvbvXgAr8NCePk_Tv2VsMD_-_SFAhAZZhjnngnzsX-HNr5_wOjjrhC_S0r0X8VuesoaaCErMLlllZ80p3JP5HUMc5pyTy8as/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-29+at+10.48.02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDi1gOfEotV9iVWQi3xmgBl3vOnUf2CnGJXKX2Erz129lvbvXgAr8NCePk_Tv2VsMD_-_SFAhAZZhjnngnzsX-HNr5_wOjjrhC_S0r0X8VuesoaaCErMLlllZ80p3JP5HUMc5pyTy8as/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-29+at+10.48.02+PM.jpg" /></a></div>
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4. Last year, Big Bang Theory aired an episode where Penny and Sheldon conducted an experiment designed to make people fall in love by asking a series of questions and then looking into each other's eyes for a designated amount of time. So, because Penny and Sheldon did the experiment, we obviously had to too! But, in all seriousness, I have always thought that it would be something fun to do with Justin, even though we are already married and know each other inside out. So, this week, I pulled up the questions and we began playing. The results were pretty interesting! I will get into that in a later post, though! You can find the questions <a href="http://36questionsinlove.com/">here</a>. Try it out with your friend, boyfriend, husband, blind date, whoever and let me know how it goes! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1IPiB9NYhWb8R0YoQ0ksiF3qR6l2jx61wKC9w7SabRRlbHVhJ2TsFOI3AF45XKHrw7Dc9aesqNL0htswpvVBqyWXdDj78OUkdOvOi7ZR1x-drlv8jkqRkZyIlXd_6egdAdUIQ8zcQ4A/s1600/IMG_5181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1IPiB9NYhWb8R0YoQ0ksiF3qR6l2jx61wKC9w7SabRRlbHVhJ2TsFOI3AF45XKHrw7Dc9aesqNL0htswpvVBqyWXdDj78OUkdOvOi7ZR1x-drlv8jkqRkZyIlXd_6egdAdUIQ8zcQ4A/s1600/IMG_5181.jpg" /></a></div>
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5. We changed Niko's sleep schedule and dropped one more nursing session, as we have started weaning him. It has been an emotional and long week, to say the least, but we are getting there! Each day and night gets a little bit easier than the night before. So, hang in there mamas who are going through the same thing right now! It does get easier, but it gets worse before it gets better.</div>
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What are you top Fives from this week? Leave them in the comments below!<br />
<br />
XX<br />
Francesca

featured, fives

Fives: Snowpocalypse and More

For one of my blog series [ Fives ], I will be posting five things from that week, whether they are things that happened, things that we tr...

January 29, 2016

Niko's First Round Picks Part 1: Top 10 Faves

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIRgIDgGdqBkGTah-QRE5z2_s2hOsenGwpISChkLxr2jVCKkTF57gv5-6Brp__9hduKxoYaqtGCt_ZvWpO8sFGaLp3Kw6Gd67JqUZ3XCWgFzrljGAdnFienuY14Rz9v8mTGXueMdLrlM/s1600/IMG_0310+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIRgIDgGdqBkGTah-QRE5z2_s2hOsenGwpISChkLxr2jVCKkTF57gv5-6Brp__9hduKxoYaqtGCt_ZvWpO8sFGaLp3Kw6Gd67JqUZ3XCWgFzrljGAdnFienuY14Rz9v8mTGXueMdLrlM/s1600/IMG_0310+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a><br />
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We often get asked what our favorite products and brands are and what products we could have lived without. In the 10 [almost 11] short months since Niko has made his debut, we have been on a mission to find out which products worked for us and which ones didn't. When we went to go register, I remember anxiously combing through Pinterest trying to find out what we needed and what we didn't. I was confused, didn't know what we actually <i>needed</i> and what was going to be a waste of money, and which products actually worked the way they said they would. It wasn't until I started asking other mamas what they loved, that I began to feel more at ease. So, I have decided to return the favor and put together a list of all of <b>Niko's</b> [and mama's] <b>First Round Picks</b> and why they have worked for us and why we loved them so dearly.</div>
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1. <a href="https://www.adenandanais.com/">aden + anais</a> - <b>EVERYTHING</b>. I know that aden + anais is not a new brand, or maybe not even that new to all of you, but I love everything about their products. Their soft, lightweight, breathable muslin swaddle blankets were a lifesaver when Niko was first born, and still continue to be. For as thin as they are, they hold in <b>so</b> much heat. You never have to worry about your sweet little mini being cold again. Trust me, I have tested them out myself! And, since all of aden + anais' products go through rigorous testing before being sold, you have a little less to worry about when you put your head on your pillow at night. We have tried everything from swaddle blankets, to bedding, to even changing mat covers. aden + anais never disappoint! </div>
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2. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=50637596&cp=&parentPage=search">Britax B-Agile and B-Safe Travel System</a> - This one was a biggie for us. I wanted to make sure that Niko was going to be safe when being in the car. So, I called my cousin, who is a doctor and carseat certified, to ask for her advice. She mentioned that you cannot go wrong with either a Chicco or Britax carseat, they are the safest on the market. After that, it was just based on preference, but, I have to say, we have been very pleased with how durable, reliable, and safe our Britax Travel System has been.</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4233184&cp=&parentPage=search">Sofie the Giraffe</a> - Sophie has been <i>so</i> good to us for <i>so</i> many months and through all of those terrible teething moments. She doubles as a toy and as a teether. She keeps Niko occupied while soothing his sore gums. And, the best part is, is that Sophie is made of 100% all natural rubber and food paint, making her super safe for baby. I highly recommend having one for the house and one for your diaper bag, this way you are never without her.</div>
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4. <a href="https://www.4moms.com/mamaroo">mamaRoo by 4moms</a> - Words could not give this product justice. The mamaRoo is a complete lifesaver. I honestly do not know what we would have done without it for the first 9 months of Niko's life. It is a bouncer, swing, and rocker all-in-one and 'it moves like you do.' Niko loved it and we loved it, so it was a win-win. And, one of the best features was that you could control the seat by an app on your phone. I just like when everything is connecting to one place. It makes me feel centered. The price tag is pretty pricey, but if you think about having to buy a bouncer and a swing and everything else that moves, it no longer seems <i>as</i> pricey. </div>
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5. <a href="http://babyganics.com/">Babyganics</a> - Babyganics is by far our favorite brand on the market for household necessities. All of their products are plant-based and are safe for baby to explore. We use everything from dish and bottle soap to laundry detergent, to face wipes and toothpaste, and everything else in between. I just feel so much better knowing that everything that is and that will be touching Niko's senstivie baby skin is safe. And, the prices are super reasonable, especially since we use Amazon's Subscribe and Save program, which I recommend signing up for now, if you don't already! </div>
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6. <a href="http://www.pampers.com/en-us?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Pampers_Search_Brand%20Awareness.Exact&utm_term=pampers&utm_content=syErvd6lb|dc_pampers_e_51450771475&gclid=CjwKEAiAuKy1BRCY5bTuvPeopXcSJAAq4OVsDDmiX7Sz-34pVvQaUNBd208ZM9mND-xstjLUq-NEGxoCmTzw_wcB">Pampers</a> - We have tried every brand of diapers and wipes imaginable, from store brand to specialty, and none of them seemed to keep Niko dry and soft like Pampers. We never had issues with weird rashes or leakage [aside from normal diaper blowouts, that is]. And, again, reasonably priced and we save 20% on diapers through Amazon Mom; you can't beat that!</div>
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7. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=24709096&cp=&parentPage=search">Baby K'tan Baby Carrier</a> - We tried almost three carriers until we found the K'tan. I just love how easy this wrap is to work with! 1, 2, 3 and baby is all snuggled in nice and secure. Other wraps are hard to manage and don't feel as tight and snug. The Baby K'tan was the best way to wear Niko around the house to get chores done and not having to worry about him falling out.</div>
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8. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=69525626&cp=2255957.2273443.2255981.69345326.12115656.34641836&parentPage=family">Munchkin Formula Dispenser</a> & <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=56490376&cp=2273443.2255981.2255981&parentPage=search">Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder</a>- Although I am still nursing Niko, this product came in super handy when we were on the go and Niko started eating cereal. It was so easy to take it where ever we went, without worrying about cereal spilling in my diaper bag. You can use this dispenser for anything! You can throw puffs or cheerios, or other tiny snacks in there for when you are on the go. I just love having it around! More often than not, it comes in handy. As for the Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder, I cannot tell you enough how much Niko loved this product! Early on, we would let Niko try watermelon and other fruits to get a feel for what real food would taste like. He loved, loved, loved getting real food through this mesh feeder and it was always so nice knowing that he wouldn't be able to choke.<br />
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9. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3088660&sr=1&origkw=dr.%20browns">Dr. Brown's Bottles</a> - Best bottles for reducing colic, spit-up, and gas. There are a lot of pieces to these bottles and they are a pain to wash when you are in a pinch [or just in general], but, they are so nice and so good for baby! Dr. Brown's bottles are also the best bottles if you are still nursing. They create a positive-pressure flow that is similar to breastfeeding, so less chance of nipple confusion! We personally loved the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3956082&cp=2255957.2273443.2255981.69345326.3088660&parentPage=family">wide neck newborn bottles</a>.</div>
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10. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/eddie-bauer-reversible-cart-highchair-cover/-/A-14955114#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=eddie+bauer+cart+cover">Cart Cover </a>- It took us a while to find a cart cover that we really loved, but we finally found one in Target one day. This product is one of my favorites because it doubles as a cart cover and as a highchair cover when you go out to dinner. It keeps baby all snuggly and comfy, while keeping them from sucking on the cart and picking up everyone else's germs. Plus, would you want to sit on a plastic seat while mama strolled through target for 3 hours every day? I didn't think so!</div>
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Check in later for more of Niko's First Round Picks! Next time, we will be going over some of our not-so favorite products.</div>
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Disclaimer: Not every product is going to work for you and for your mini; each mama and each baby is different, but, at least this list may act as a start! Whether or not you are a new mama-to-be or a super mama of 3, you may find something that works for you and baby that you haven't thought of before on this list!<br />
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XX<br />
Francesca </div>

featured, nikosfirstroundpicks

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