Call Me Morty! - The #SwifferEffect

So I'll have to admit, I don't really notice commercials much, but the latest Swiffer commercials (you know the ones with old couple) really grabbed my attention. I loved watching Morty snoozing in his chair while his wife was telling him all about cleaning with their new Swiffer. Even Eric Stonestreet is helping out! Check out their latest video...

So guess what is even more exciting? I WAS ALSO ASKED TO JOIN IN THE #SWIFFEREFFECT CAMPAIGN! If you know me, you know I'm a neat freak. So having a Swiffer handy is just darn awesome. Especially since they surprised me with one at my front door in a big, green box!

Yes, there are TWO big, green boxes in that photo. I'll explain that later. But for now, let's open one of these babies up! This house needs cleaning!

Brynlee is excited to see too! Anything new to grab, touch, feel, destroy, etc. She is interested....

WARNING - a photobomb is about to happen!

AWESOME! It's the Swiffer Wet Jet inside of the #BigGreenBox! This is going to come in handy on our new kitchen floors. I can't wait to try it out. But wait! Remember how there were two boxes? The kind folks that they are, Swiffer was actually cool enough to send me TWO Swiffer Wet Jets. One to pass along to a friend or family member. Who better to surprise with than my Mother-in-Law with one. It's the least we can do considering she typically babysits two days a week, and drives 45 minutes each way just to do so.

She wanted to rip it out and get to work. Did I mention she cleans, too? Woo-hoo!

I never knew that Swiffer got all electronic and fancy. Now they have little spray nozzles that shoot floor cleaner out! Just press a little button and there you go. Swiff' away!

It really does work great, and even leaves that clean smell afterwards. It took about three minutes to assemble, and another three to clean the floors. Can't beat that. Just call me Morty.

Of course we couldn't get Brynlee, aka nosy-neighbor, to not be in the way. She likes being part of the #SwifferEffect too. Do they make fake baby Swiffers? That would really help.

Please don't let your kids get into the cleaning solution, I'm pretty sure it's not safe for ingestion. We kept Bryn far enough away when we were using the spray functions. She was really intrigued. So were we. 

I thought I kept my floors nice and clean but the Swiffer proved me wrong. There's definitely some dirt caught on that pad. Oh well, it's clean now! My wife and I are always dreading cleaning the house, this will help solve some of those problems! Thanks again Swiffer for helping keep my house clean and making it so easy to!

The whole point of the #SwifferEffect is to remind families that even as we are changing and evolving with the times, cleaning can be fun and easy. Swiffer is trying to make cleaning less of a chore.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

15 Ways To Spot A Dad

I could make lists for days. I recently thought of a list of things that I sometimes find myself doing. But, only because I am a Dad now.


15 WAYS TO SPOT A DAD


1. He appears exhausted. Always.

-We all know that having kids is a ton of work. And a lot of missed sleep.

2. He has two cup holders in his car. One with a coffee, the other with a baby's bottle.

-If there was only one cup holder, chances are the coffee wouldn't make the cut.

3. He puts the case of beer back on the shelf to make room for the case of diapers in the shopping cart.

-Those days are over. Diapers are the new 24-pack.

4. He can perfectly replicate the theme song to Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood.

-Over, and over, and over, and over.

5. He knows how to match shoes with outfits.

-Because our kids must always look better than us.

6. He always has a camera phone ready.

-Pictures! It's all about pictures!

7. He judges and criticizes other parents. 

-"My kids will NOT be like those kids!"

8. He assumes that things missing around the house are just under a table somewhere.

-We all know that kids can get into things faster than we can even notice.

9. He has one pair of old, worn out shoes.

-However, the kids have at least 17 pairs each.

10.  His under-the-armpit-smell-check is accompanied by the through-the-diaper-smell-check.

-We have to make sure everyone is still fresh.

11. His garage used to be filled with his toys, now it's filled with kid's toys.

-Who needs tools or a motorcycle when you can have two playhouses, a playskool tool bench, three water tables, and a bicycle before they can even walk?

12. His frozen beer mug in the freezer is replaced with frozen storage bags full of breast milk.

-If only the garage had room for a deep freezer...

13. He sleeps on 1/8th of the bed.

-A 22-inch long baby can take up an awful lot of space in a king sized bed. And he better not even think about rolling over.

14. His wallet is empty.

-Ha. What's money?

15. His furniture is full of stains.

-Do you really expect a kid to get every piece of food into their mouth?

The Calling Wine - A Perfect Father's Day

"I participated in a campaign on behalf of Dad Central Consulting for The Calling Wines. I received a product sample and promotional item as a thank you for participating."

It's almost Father's Day. A day that wasn't all that significant before. But this year, my title as a "Father" applies. I think a parent's first Mother's Day or Father's Day is important. It's already special in the fact that you have never been able to celebrate one in this fashion before, but also because you can only have one "first".

Traditionally gifts are given. Dad might want a new watch, or a grill, or some other tool that will eventually be replaced. Give him something to remember. Something sentimental. Something that will last a lifetime, and every time he sees it, he will be reminded of that child. A good Father's Day gift will bring back memories. I think that's important.  

Dad should also be spoiled! He deserves it. A lot of dads go to work everyday and work hard to support the family. Some stay home and raise kids while mom goes to work. Some blend both. No matter what, dad deserves a day dedicated to him. What better way to relax than with a great wine, inspired by the fathers of it's makers. 

THE CALLING

Sports commentator Jim Nantz wrote a book capturing the importance of his father's role in his life. It's called "Always By My Side", and it chronicles his father's long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Wine industry entrepreneur Peter Deutsch happened to read his book, because he too, was inspired by his own father. Peter's father created the wine company that he is currently the CEO of. Jim and Peter were both looking to create a wine that their fathers could be proud of. After they met by chance, the alliance was created. The Calling Wine is the finest of wines, straight from vineyards in California. They offer six varieties, perfect for selecting a great match for that Father's Day dinner you are cooking for dad!

I was lucky enough to receive a bottle to try. The Calling Wine Pinot Noir, is a dark, classic, cool-climate choice from the grapes of Dutton Ranch in the prestigious Russian River Valley appellation. A fresh cherry, mushroom, and spicy flavor compliment the best of steaks. My wife and I both enjoyed our tasting. We are saving the rest of the bottle to make this Father's Day memorable!

The fact that this wine has so much meaning behind it, is what really makes it special. Any father should appreciate the dedication and associate with Jim and Peter about how important fatherhood really is. Whether you are a father yourself, or have a father in your life that you love, please show them you care for them this Father's Day. Whether it be a good bottle of wine, a gift they can cherish, or a simple card expressing your feelings. Let them know that you are thankful for them being Dad. 

Learn more at  - TheCallingWine.com

May 2014 Update

Hey, it's been a while. I have been focusing more on work and family life lately. It seems like there is less and less time to sit down and write. Plus, I'm not even a writer. Have I ever mentioned that before? Oh well. I've done OK so far.

Brynlee is getting so big. Actually, she will show you how big now. Take a look -

Her hair is getting so curly. When we give her a bath, and comb it, it's nice and straight. But that doesn't last too long. As soon as she eats, or naps, she almost always sweats. After that, curly again.

From this - 

To this - 

 A few weeks back, we took her to Brookfield Zoo. She loved it. I loved it. 

She has even upped to a big girl car seat! She loves her new Recaro!

And for Mother's Day, she got her mom a nice card in bed, and also lots of well-deserved gifts!! Love you, Mom!

She had to show off her love for applesauce. She is becoming quite the #selfie girl.

No teeth yet, although it looks like the bottom two will be here very shortly. You can start to see them surfacing. She loves to chew on things, probably because of teething. She really loves Daniel Tiger, and Curious George, and Super Why. 

She knows how to tell you she's hungry, by smacking her lips real loud. She thinks it's funny too, to copy us while we are eating. She's a big oatmeal fan. 

If you give her a crib full of toys, she will play in there for hours by herself. She is very observant, and focuses on even the littlest details of just about everything. She knows how to turn on toys, and how to change channels on TV. Oh, and she sure rolls around. She can scoot backwards, but isn't crawling forwards yet. Should be soon. She has the ambition. 

Make sure to check out my blogs on Chicago Parent. Here are some links to my latest!

Brookfield Zoo Trip - here

Chicago Dad Wants His Daughter To Know He Loves Her The Most - here

Why You Need To Throw Away Your Loofah! - here

Do-It-Yourself Home Photo Portraits - here

April 2014 Update

Brynlee is, 90 percent of the time, a happy baby. Occasionally she gets a little fussy, but for the most part, we got lucky.

Look at this photo I got of her yesterday, while she was playing with a toy. With how often I am taking pictures of her, we know that she won't be afraid of cameras when she is older.

She gets so excited. Especially when she is pulling on your hooded sweatshirt's strings. She just loves that.

I think I am enjoying this stage of her life a little more than when she was first born. She has a personality now, and she recognizes me. She is more fun to interact with. I can play with her and she will respond with sounds, or smiles, or laughs. Kind of like a puppy, but a human version.

She eats puree'd foods now. She really likes mangos. Rice cereal works to fill her up, too. Still loves her bottles though. She knows when it's time, and she will start kicking with joy when she notices the bottle in your hand.

Her Grandma, and her Great Aunt help us babysit when we are at work. Sometimes I think that she is more excited to see them, than she is to see us. She really enjoys her time with them. It's safe to say by the look on her face when she makes eye contact with them both. We are very grateful.

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood is her very favorite television show. We try to limit her time in front of the TV, because studies show that it isn't great for children under 2. But, how can you keep her completely away? You never will. When the Daniel Tiger theme song comes on, she knows it. She will freeze whatever she is doing, and turn to watch. It's pretty amazing. Her memory is fantastic.

Image from PBS.org

Let Nutri-Grain Start Your Hectic Morning Right!

“I participated in an Influencer Program on behalf of Mom Central for Nutri-Grain. I received product samples and promotional item to thank me for participating.”

I have never been much of a breakfast person. I know how important it is, however, as an essential part of your nutrition for the day. Breakfast starts your metabolism early in the day, and helps your body stay healthy, and maintain weight. Also, sleep deprives you of key nutrients that you need to function. Breakfast replenishes these. 

So many Americans (or anybody, really) skip breakfast. Not normally because they want to, but because there is no time. Schedules are tight, and mornings can be hectic. Who has time to cook up a meal? Not me. Not if I'm working that morning. Luckily, there are lots of grab-and-go options available these days.

Kellogg's Nutri-Grain is especially tasty! Their new Fruit & Oat Harvest bars are made with whole grains, and contain 4g of protein. I can honestly say that they fill you up, and are perfect size for a morning on the go. I had a hard boiled egg, my favorite cup of coffee, and a Nutri-Grain Fruit & Oat Blueberry Bliss bar, for my breakfast today. Between feeding Brynlee, playing with her, and trying to get her to nap, I need something quick, that I can enjoy while she is sleeping. If you have ever tried to balance making eggs, and pancakes, with taking care of a baby, something is bound to go wrong. 

A coffee, an egg or fruit, and one of these Nutri-Grain bars are a healthy way to start the day. Oh, did I mention they contain NO HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP. Man, I hate that stuff. It is the enemy of any healthy diet. Thankfully, none here. Two flavors are available - Country Strawberry, and Blueberry Bliss. Both taste great, but I am partial to the Blueberry Bliss. 

I will remember these when I am running out the door to work early in the morning. I can easily eat one of these in the car with my coffee. I find that I am more productive at work when I have had something to eat, especially nutritional. Remember, these little bars are filled with REAL FRUIT and WHOLE GRAINS. What more can you ask for?

I caught my wife sneaking out with a bar in her hand. Sneaky!

Be sure to check out the Official Nutri-Grain Facebook page for news and offers - https://www.facebook.com/NutriGrain

Sick Parent. Happy Baby. FLABY.

Last Friday, I felt like crap.

The kind of crap that makes you stay in bed all day. You'd do ANYTHING to not have to do anything. DayQuil and NyQuil become your life savers, and you cling to the bottles like an alcoholic does a pint. Vomiting is not voluntary, but necessary.

I'm not positive at what the problem was. I'm leaning towards the flu, but maybe it was food poisoning? I'll never know.

One thing is for sure, I don't wish it upon anyone.

I don't get sick very often. It seems like at some point, in every February, I come down with something. It never fails, my once per year illness shows it's face. This year, near the end of the month.

I thought I made it through. I thought that I had beat out the cold this year. February was almost over and I had no signs of this monster. Im assuming that the flu checked the calendar and noticed that it had not effected me yet. Late, but not forgotten.

Thanks.

Something is different this year. This year it's not just the flu. There is a baby involved. I didn't have "the flu".

I had "the FLABY".

A new term that I just developed. The flu + a baby. I think any parent would agree that symptoms of the flu are amplified with the presence of a child. Kids/Babies don't know what sick means, especially if it doesn't involve them. I'm pretty sure my daughter thought that me being ill, was sort of funny.

She wanted to play more. I wanted to sleep more.
She needed a diaper change more often. I spent more time in the bathroom.
She spit up. I threw up.
She ate. I didn't.

It's funny how when I want to take a nap, she doesn't. These kids are smarter than we realize. I don't think she took any naps all day. Normally, she has at least three.

I tried to avoid touching her as much as I could. I don't know much about sick babies, and I don't want to if I don't have to. Luckily, she has been fine since I was sick. I'm crossing my fingers that it never spread to her, because that's just not fair. Or fun.

Maybe it was food poisoning?

Whatever it was, it's over.

...until next February. (and I will have to call it "floddler")

TheBouqs.com Valentine's Day Success

I received a free bouquet of flowers in exchange for an honest review of the company. All opinions are 100% my own.

Valentine's Day was right around the corner. I knew I wanted to get something for my wife, because I believe it's what all good husbands do. Usually for me, it means digging up some saved money that I have somewhere, because if I use our joint checking/debit, she will see it right away. What kind of surprise would that be? That's what I did when I had flowers sent to her work for our Anniversary in January. 

Sending more flowers to her work a month later, would be kind of repetitive, so I decided against it. I have seen ads for TheBouqs.com before, and the products looked attractive, but I never followed through with investigating further. Surprisingly, they reached out to me. 

They said, "Hey, we are very confident in our flowers, and we want to show you and your readers why we are better." I figured, why not? Free flowers? How much better than a local florist could they be? I will give them to my wife for Valentine's Day, and save some money at the same time. 

I accepted the offer.

And, here we are. I am extremely impressed with the roses that arrived. I ordered the "Fireworks" assortment, because it contained the essential red roses, but also switched it up a little with these really cool small blue flowers. I'm a guy, I don't know much about flowers, but they did look pretty neat. 

The order was placed about a week ahead of time, but the flowers didn't ship out until two days before. This is to insure the quality, and freshness. Straight from South America, my package arrived early in the morning on February 14th. Perfect timing, just like what was promised. 

I was able to see the box that they arrived in, because I started work a little later in the day. But I did not open it, I left it for my wife to find when she got home.

She was ecstatic about them. (Also thankful that I saved her the embarrassment from more flowers arriving at her work!) She explained that they were very nicely packaged, and that she was impressed, and I should have seen it. I'll take her word for it.

The quality was above and beyond any flowers I have seen before. Just yesterday, February 20th, I was still able to get a cool photo of the wilting roses. 

My favorite part about TheBouqs.com is that their arrangements start at $40. Flat fee. It's not $40 + tax + shipping + delivery + whatever else the other places charge. It's just $40. Straight forward, and simple. What most guys look for when ordering stuff for their wife!

Check them out and give them a chance, even if it's for yourself. They have a lot of cool varieties to choose from, something to fit everyone. 

www.TheBouqs.com

Empower Your Child's Future with Cord Blood Registry

“I participated in a campaign on behalf of Dad Central for the Cord Blood Registry. I received promotional item to thank me for my participation.”

When we were preparing for Brynlee, we had a lot of choices to make. One of those choices included Cord Blood Banking. Did we want to do it, or skip? What do we even know about it? Is it beneficial? Is it worth it? Luckily, we had all the information at our fingertips.

Cord Blood stem cells are used to treat many life-threatening diseases. Leukemia, anemia, and other types of cancers for example. They also have the potential to help heal serious conditions like brain damage. 

As you can see, the benefits are extremely powerful. But the downside is that it is quite expensive. However, no price tag can outweigh the health benefits that they can provide, now or in the future. 

CORD BLOOD REGISTRY is giving my readers a $200 discount when you visit cordbankingbasics.com and complete an information request. Do NOT miss this FREE opportunity!

Even with all of this life-saving information, we were unable to have her cord blood banked. We just simply would not be able to afford it.  (They do have payment plan options, though)

They are currently trying to put into legislation a Family Cord Blood Banking Act, which would allow the services to be recognized as a qualified medical expense allowing families to apply tax-advantaged health funds for the collection, processing, and storage of these life-saving cells. This would, without a doubt, empower many more families to be able to use these services, potentially saving lives in the future. 

Cord blood is easy to collect. The doctor will do it for you, they just save some from the umbilical cord, after it is cut. It is put into a special container that is supplied, and you send it off. There is no harm to the baby to collect it, and is recognized by just about every doctor out there. Hopefully, insurance will realize how important this precious blood is, and help parents collect it without breaking their wallets.

Maybe by the time we have another child, the Act will be recognized, and we can save our next child's cord blood. My wife, nor I, would ever hesitate to do it.

You can find more information on Cord Blood Banking at www.cordblood.com.

How To Get Rid Of Poop Stains in 3 Easy Steps

I don't know about any other baby, but Brynlee seems to get poop out of the back of her diaper. We have tried putting them tighter. We have tried different brands. Bigger sizes. Nothing helps. A few times a week, we are cleaning the stains out of her onesies.

Luckily, my wife showed me an easy technique for cleaning all of those stained onesies. As long as you do this while the stain is pretty fresh, it will take it right out.

Step 1.

Get the clothes off of the baby, and bring it over to your sink. Run some warm water over the stain for a few seconds. Just enough to wet.



Step 2.

Put some dishwashing liquid on the stain. We use Dawn dish soap just because it's what we have handy. Any of them work. Add another splash of warm water to the spot, to allow the soap to foam and spread a little better over the stained area.

Step 3.

Fold the stain over into itself like a book. Vigorously rub back and forth, so you are scrubbing cotton against cotton. Add more warm water as needed. You might have to add more dish soap, and scrub again, but eventually it will fade away. Then just add them to your regular laundry with the rest of the baby clothes, and you will never even know it was stained.

Hopefully that helps. No need for expensive stain removers, or to brush it with special tools. I wanted a better photo of the process of rubbing the stain against itself, but I couldn't get a picture and do it at the same time! So if you have any questions, please ask.



A clean baby, is a happy baby!

Italio - Orland Park, IL - FREE FOOD DAY Jan 28th!

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% true and my own!

Alright, this almost sounds too good to be true... But, it's not!

Think of if Subway and Chipotle combined to an Italian theme. That's what Italio is like. 

Walk in and down the line to form your own Italian creation.

Begin by choosing a Pasta Bowl, a Piadina (Italian wrap), or a Salad Bowl.

Then add your entree, sauce, toppings, and extras. (Don't forget to try an order of their famous Cannoli chips!)

Here's a sample of their menu - 

They have been very successful at their few locations currently in Florida. But that isn't enough. Chicagoland is getting their share! Italio is opening it's first location outside of Florida, in Orland Park, Illinois. Which just happens to be about 25 minutes from me! I am extremely excited, because I love the concept, and who doesn't like quick Italian food?

They will be giving out FREE FOOD to anyone and everyone on Tuesday January 28th, beginning at 10:45am! One complimentary entree per person will be given free. No gimmicks, just free food. It's their "welcome to the neighborhood". 

15139 S LaGrange Rd. Orland Park, IL is the location, and they will be open every day until 10pm. I hope everyone can make it out to the FREE FOOD day, but if not be sure to stop by any time! The prices are low, and the food is fresh!

Thanks to Italio Kitchen for allowing me to be a part of this special Grand Opening!

Mangiamo!

image via UrbanSpoon.com

Up Close with ROGAINE Hair Regrowth Treatment

“I participated in an Influencer Program on behalf of Dad Central for ROGAINE®. I received a product sample and promotional item to thank me for participating.”

First of all, you are all probably thinking... What? ROGAINE? Kevin, you are only 26 years old?

Well, I haven't had to use it yet, but I am intrigued by some of the people who do.

Have you seen the show Giuliana & Bill? Bill Rancic is the ROGAINE brand's first-ever "Growth Coach". He was also the first winner of Donald Trump's show, The Apprentice. I had no idea that he struggled with hair loss, and I think it's great that someone so genuine, is representing the brand.

"When I started noticing that my hair was thinning, I knew I had two options: sit back, let it happen, and go bald, or take control, find something that works and make a commitment to solving the problem." - Bill Rancic

Team up with Men's Health and ROGAINE to Grow Your Game. Several coaches are teaming up with guys to make their lives better. Follow along with them as they change their habits. Every day there are new updates, coupons, and advice! They have helped me change my outlook on how I choose my daily routine. Also to be healthier, and be a better parent.

As a father, I believe it is important to be your best at it every single day. If you can be the best dad, the opportunities are endless. Your children will grow to appreciate your dedication, and you will, too.

Here are some interesting facts about ROGAINE Foam -

- The product is intended for use twice daily, and results will appear in about 16 weeks when used as directed.

- Contains 5% minoxidil, which is the ONLY topical ingredient that is FDA-approved to regrow hair.

- 9 out of 10 men regrew hair when they used ROGAINE Foam twice daily for 16 weeks.

- Can be applied to dry or towel dried hair; follow with the styling products of your choice and can be used on colored or chemically-treated hair.

- Must continue use of Men's ROGAINE Foam to maintain results.

- Suggested Retail Price: $29.99 for a one month supply and $49.99 for a three month supply.

- Hereditary hair loss affects up to 40% of all men, and 66% of men ages 25-34 are extremely likely to use a hair replacement treatment - up from 42% a year ago.

- Available without a prescription.

- ROGAINE is the category leader, with almost 60% share in the marketplace. I am sure you have all heard of them!

Save up to 42% at www.rogaine.com when you sign up to have automatic shipments of ROGAINE Foam delivered to your door for less than $17/month!


To learn more about ROGAINE and hair loss, go to www.rogaine.com.

Testicular Cancer Awareness

I think it's very important to share this message about Testicular Cancer Awareness. Men don't check as often as they should, and it's so simple to do.

Please take a moment to watch this video made by a fellow Dad Blogger's son and friends.

And don't forget to check! It could save your life!

Chicago Parent Magazine

6:51pm



I wanted to let everyone know that I have recently been accepted as a blogger for Chicago Parent Magazine! I am thrilled to be a part of such a great community of parents. I never thought that I would get this far.

So starting this month, you will be able to see some of my posts over on ChicagoParent.com. I will keep blogging here, as well.

Brynlee has been growing so quickly, that I can't even keep up. It's hard for us to tell, because we are around her everyday. I was going through some older pictures of her, and couldn't believe how small she was just a few months ago. Now she looks like a monster!

My wife went back to work December 30th. Luckily, we have great family that can help us with babysitting. They come to our home to watch her, and THEY DON'T CHARGE! How jealous are you, now? We are blessed.

Brit's mom takes Mondays.
I take Tuesdays.
My aunt watches her on Wednesdays.
I have her on Thursdays.
My mom does Fridays.
And then Brit has her on the weekends.

It all works out really well for us. Sometimes my schedule changes so we have to adjust, but it looks like I will be able to keep this setup pretty regularly. We aren't as concerned about how high child care costs are as much as we are about the quality of the care. My aunt spent a LOT of time with me when I was little, so my mom likes to credit her with most of my learning. I am excited for Brynlee to get the same treatment.

My wife surprised me with a fantastic Nikon D5300 (the newest camera they have!) for Christmas. So now I am able to take my photography to a MUCH higher level. Trust me, I have a long way to go, but I have been working on my skills at every chance that I get. (Not as many as I would like. We have a three month old, remember?)

We also bought a new computer, since my laptop that I used to blog from, died. I still have to recover all of the images off of the hard drive, but until then, this new computer is working great. iMac anyone?

I look forward to all of the new adventures that this year should bring! Remember to keep an eye out for me at ChicagoParent.com.

Say Yes To Less - Distractions

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Little Remedies. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Even before Brynlee was born, my wife and I decided that we wanted to keep everything we gave the baby as natural as possible. She was going to breast feed. We would make our own baby food at home. Only natural medicines in our cabinets. The way it should be.

So far, this has all been true. When Brynlee was born, we found a nearby pediatrician who is all about being all-natural, and homeopathic. We aren't "yuppy" or strict about what we eat, but I do believe that all these unnecessary "additives" that we consume are effecting our bodies. Maybe not right away, but down the road this will all catch up. Hormones, pesticides, sweeteners, and other unnatural additions to our food/medicines, are killing us.

When we started going to her, and she explained some of the reasons that she believes that natural is the way to go, we knew that we had to stick to it. We only use organic/natural body wash and shampoo, no more fabric softener, and natural medicines. It is more expensive, but worth it. Good health is key.

This is why we chose to "Say Yes To Less", and we encourage you to, as well.

Now, even after talking about how much we dislike unnatural additives in things that we consume, I actually pledged to Say Yes To Less - Distractions. 

Today, you cannot go anywhere without seeing a smartphone in someone's hand. This includes my family. I am the biggest culprit. I will have a laptop, iPad, and iPhone all going at the same time. What's wrong with that? Well, they are distractions. Distracting us from the world around us. Our growing family, world affairs, and immediate surroundings are all sidelined by "updates" and "notifications" from electronic devices. These are times that we need to cherish. Our baby is growing and changing quickly and these are the moments that we can never get back. Like they say, "Don't blink, because life will pass you by." 

We are going to work on spending less time on electronics so that we can spend more time with our family. As you have noticed, I have recently slowed down my blog postings because of this reason. Too much time is spent on the computer and not enough with my little girl, who won't be so little before we know it. 

We actually haven't used any medicine with Bryn yet, but we have a full Little Remedies line-up on hand, just in case. They don't use any unnecessary products in the ingredients, and that is important to us. We have tried gripe water with her to help when she is gassy. And it seems to work pretty well. 

We make sure to use hand sanitizer before we touch her face, and I am really weird about making sure to use antibacterial sanitizer on just about every surface in the house. It must be working. We need to get our flu shots, but I have heard mixed reviews. I have never had one, because I have never really been affected by the flu. For Brynlee's sake, it's probably best that we are immunized, though. 

A Little Girl's Smile

A sperm meets an egg. 

They fertilize.

Nine months pass. 

A gift from God arrives. 

This gift doesn't know how welcomed she is to the world. 

Seven weeks later, the gift smiles at her dad, and he happens to catch it on camera. 

And this little girl's smile is worth more than all the money in the world to him. 

Rocket Poop

If I had a dollar for every time that my wife asked me to get up and get something for her, I would be writing this from the Hamptons right now. But it's usually something for the baby, and as a dad, I don't mind. I will do anything for my little girl. Even if it means cleaning up the rocket poop that sprayed all over the carpet. 

Yes, that happens. I have yet to invent some type of poop-shield. A "backboard". That's what is really needed. Someone help me out. Let's get this solution figured out before my carpet has holes in it. 

Until that's figured out, rocket poop exists. I can't speak for other babies, because I haven't experienced it elsewhere. But my daughter can spray poop at record speeds. As a matter of fact, last time I believe I heard a small "boom" from the sound barrier breaking. Pretty intense. 

Getting baby droppings launched into your chest can put a damper on your day, or ruin your dinner, but it's the timing that really is the puzzler. She's so sneaky about it. Everything will be calm on the battle front, and once you cross into the jungle, it's all out war. There's no turning back. You just take the bullet spray and hope you dodge the killer. 

She's like a skunk. Spraying to defend herself. Like "get away from me with that warm, damp wipe". Your treading on thin ice. Keep your mouth closed because the cannon is loaded. And only God can tell when it's ready to blow. 

Not only do babies poop, a lot;

They poop, ferociously.

Image via Wikipedia.org

Day 29 - Growing So Fast!

9:08pm



Brynlee had another doctor's appointment today. She has these little white bumps on her upper gums, and at first we thought they were teeth. Then we thought "thrush". But apparently they are pretty normal, and harmless, and if they aren't causing her any discomfort, then to not worry about it. So we aren't.



She is now 23.5 inches long, which is above average. Maybe she will be tall? At this rate (nearly five inches in just four weeks), I wouldn't doubt it.

She weighs 10.2 lbs. Which means in one month she has gained almost two pounds.

Yep, tomorrow will be one month old. We have those stickers that we used during the pregnancy. They gave us for the baby as well. So we will have to bust out the trusty camera (aka iPhone) and get some photos taken.

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