Kelly's Korner: I have about 7 minutes to make a post.........

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

I have about 7 minutes to make a post.........

This is for all my OBU friends ----- Harper wanted to show you her shirt!!!

By the looks of her in this picture - I think she is trying to tell me she'd rather pledge E. :-)

This is us during some happy famly time! There hasn't been just a ton of that in the last two days. We are so thankful to have a sweet baby and SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO thankful she is healthy but she has pretty much only slept about 6 out of the last 36 hours. I'm either nursing the other 30 hours or she is screamimg!!! I know this is the 3 week growth spurt (or so we hope!) We are really just glad she is eating so much and her lungs work so well. Have any of you had a baby that would not sleep and only wants to be fed and/or held? I'm writing this with one hand while she's calm for once. Any advice for this new mom? (P.S. I've tried the bouncy seat, car seat, swing, sling, miracle blanket and pack and play - she hates them all. She's high maitenance - where does she get it from??? Must be her dad. ha!)

This is the best part of our day - when daddy comes at lunch or night. He helps me so much. If I can work in a shower somehow today and can pump a bottle or two......I am getting out tonight for 30 minutes.........maybe to buy stamps and go to sonic!!!!!

On another note, we have been so blessed lately and I have been so burdened for others........sick children, tornado victims, almost 1000 people in my small town yesterday who were laid off. We are living in such scary times and my anxiety has increased so much knowing I am responsible for another life now. It's hard to turn on the tv these days and to not get depressed, But God has told us not to worry over and over in the Bible. He is in control. He is Jehovah Jirah - my provider. My hope is in that.

P.S. If I haven't returned your phone call or e-mail or written your thank you note yet........hopefully you understand why now. I haven't combed my hair in about 3 days. My friend Kacy (one of the most thoughtful people I've ever met) called today and said "I'm about to ring your doorbell and run - answer when I leave" and she left me an orange roll from our favorite tea room. She speaks my love language. :-) I want to learn to be that kind of friend, don't you?

Also - be in prayer for this family. This little girl was a twin and was born at 30 weeks. She has had two heart surgeries and one bowel surgery. Please pray that she lives and will be healed - her name is Veiyah. Her twin was lost.

post signature

Pin It

526 comments:

«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 526 Newer› Newest»

Andrea said...: Okay, some people do not like pacifiers, BUT there are tons of babies that are comforted by sucking. If she is doing well latching on then I would try a pacifier in between feedings. She may just need that sucking to be able to calm herself down, and not necessarily be hungry. It worked really well with my 2nd baby!! Good luck!!; 2/11/2009 5:09 PM
Angela said...: I had a doctors appointment today and brought my book to read that many people have recommended...it is called Baby Wise. My doctor saw it and told me since I was breast feeding that the baby would probably not sleep good until she is about 14 to 15 pounds.(It is 16 to 17 in boys)
Not to much longer, hang in there! She is precious!; 2/11/2009 5:12 PM
Julie said...: Maybe you've tried this, but I would put a big fleece type blanket folded up along the back/bottom of the carseat so it would be soft (not laying on straps); then lay another blaket out over the whole car seat that I would then lay them on top of and it would kind of cradle them like my arms... I would have the car seat sitting in the crib, so that they wouldn't realize they had been lowered down into anything, but still basically at arm level. Does that make sense?
You may have tried this when you mentioned carseat already, but thought I'd try.

The other thing... is she gassy? Mylicon drops are AWESOME!! Or get the brand "Little Tummies" - it's completely safe for little ones and it helps break up any gas bubbles to make them tiny and easier to get rid of. Two of my three used these drops like crazy in the early days -- I should have taken out stock in them :) ha!
I hope this helps.

Julie D. (FL)
jewels0330@gmail.com; 2/11/2009 5:12 PM
Katie said...: Hi! I'm new here, but love your blog. Glad that Harper is home now and doing well.

As for the crying/screaming fits, my sister recently went through the same thing with her newborn daughter. (Although not quite as bad). She found that the hairdryer, and the bathroom fan worked to soothe her. When I babysit her, I turn on the dirt devil if she gets fussy. Maybe some of that will help with Harper -- I know it sounds odd though :); 2/11/2009 5:14 PM
The Pelhams said...: I have 2 suggestions for you as a mother of 3 under the age of 4! 2 books Babywise and The Baby Whisperer. Babywise is highly controversial, but they are Christians and it worked like a charm for us. A friend of ours has a friend who is a pediatrician and he just had his first about 5 months ago and he wrote a blog about their experience, great stuff coming from a doctor!here is the link
http://www.smartparentshealthykids.com/blog/
Just look or search for his posts on Becoming Babywise and start with his first post!; 2/11/2009 5:17 PM
Anonymous said...: Hey, you're describing baby John Michael to a to a T! Have fun with that. Nothing would please him or make him happy and he did nurse about every hour or so. I thought I would lose my mind. I lost it one day when I realized I would never sleep more than 2 hours at a time for months. It gets better eventually!

Just nurse her. Who cares if she just ate. I would try and analyze it and say, "he just ate 30 minutes ago, it's not time" but just do it anyway, it won't hurt!

You COULD try a sling or a front-carrier. ALL my fussy baby books suggested it and it finally did the trick. They just wanna be close to you all the time and this way you can pop them in the sling and do whatever and they can feel you, smell you, hear your voice and heartbeat. You can also nurse them in the sling. I got mine at slinglings.com but there are SO many out there!

One book made this analogy with fussy babies who want to be held al the time: in the womb they were never hungry, hot, cold, lonely or without you and there were no loud noises and it was the perfect environment. Now that they're outside the womb some babies just don't quite want to adapt yet!Cherish it and you'll get through it. Now, to find a way to get my ownself an orange roll!; 2/11/2009 5:17 PM
Michele said...: Congrats, she's so beautiful! I had two very fussy newborns, so I can totally relate. It was a very challenging time in our lives (and NOT what I envisioned having a baby would be like :), so my mantra was this too shall pass... You've gotten tons of great advice. I'll definitely second The Happiest Baby on the Block book or DVD by Dr. Karp. The 5 S's let's see if I can even remember:)(swaddling, sucking, side-lying, shushing, swinging) were lifesavers! And if you don't have a white noise machine, we use a humidifier in the nursery-perfect white noise. Michele; 2/11/2009 5:20 PM
Brooke said...: She is just darling!! I am so happy she is doing well!

My baby sleep in his car seat while swaddled for about the first 5 months!!!Who says they HAVE to sleep sprawled out in a crib?!!lol! He felt snug as a bug this way! He also loved "white noise"...got a great little conair machine from Walmart for $15. Its HARD!!! I tell ya..the first 3 months are not easy. I found the best way to get peace was to go for a drive....I brought a book and parked at the beach!; 2/11/2009 5:23 PM
Anonymous said...: My little one is 10 mos now, but we have been there. I use Baby Wise like another poster said. You focus on getting a full feeding at first, and then you get on a schedule. I didn't live or die by it, but I think it made mine the pleasant baby that he is today. Some people don't like it, but it really worked for us.

I also had to watch what I ate while breastfeeding. Mine would scream if I ate salad, pizza, or anything from Sonic. I guess he didn't like the grease. Once I figured that out, our lives were much better. It might help to keep a food diary for a little while to see if anything affects her more than others. Anyway, good luck! She is precious and you are doing great! Oh, and music worked wonders with him.; 2/11/2009 5:23 PM
Chris and Carolee said...: HI,

I really enjoy reading your blog. I have been praying for Harper. I have a 7 month old and when she was that age she would have days were she was not easily calmed and we gave her Gripe water. Worked great everytime. Maybe these will help. So glad she is home and doing well.; 2/11/2009 5:24 PM
Tricia said...: I'm sure if you ever get to reading this you will have got plenty of good advice. All I can say is I felt exactly the same the firt few weeks and I hadn't been through all you have. They seem to wake up generally after about two weeks and think of all the medicine she was on to keep her calm - she's probably still sensitive to all the stimuli she's experiencing. It will pass and it seems eternal when all you do is breastfeed, but they do eventually settle into a routine, as do you and then everything feels much more "normal". (If there ever is the word normal when you have a new baby! But you have a great attitude (especially after all you've been through) take help when it's offered and your supportive husband is a great start! I've been praying for your family since Harper was born (came from Angie's blog) and wish you many great times ahead with your gorgeous little girl. Hang in and take care of yourself - even a little every day when you get the chance...

With prayers and love,
Tricia and Family (N.VA); 2/11/2009 5:25 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly, we've all been first time moms and there is a certain amount of anxiety involved. Our daughter-in-law had some of your concerns with their first child and someone told her to read Growing Kids God's Way. She did and also did what the book said and it changed her life. She and our son ended up with two of the best babies I've ever seen. They went to sleep like a charm after she did this. It took a few weeks to get the schedule down and it's difficult to do some of the things it says, but it was so worth it. Let me know if you don't have the book or would like a copy and I'll send you one. Just send me your mailing info. I've been following your blog and am so happy for you and your family. Your new daughter is precious---beautiful!! lz7780@cox.net; 2/11/2009 5:25 PM
Jules said...: Kelly,

I have to agree with some of the others. You need sleep and so does Harper. Babywise is a GREAT book! I can not say enough good things about it; it's also easy to adjust to your life. I used it for all 3 of my babies and all of them slept through the night by 8 weeks. (10 hour stretches with 3-4 naps during the day). It's awesome & it's written by Christians! Some people hate this book and they are entitled to their opinion but my children are all extremely healthy in the 90th percentile for weight and height.No allergies. And still amazing sleepers(8 pm to 8 am) at 4yrs., 2yrs. & 5 months old)!!

Also, you may HAVE to supplement with formula. Some people just have too and there's nothing wrong with that. you are not a failure if you use formula. It is not evil. All 3 of mine had some formula and they are extremely healthy and emotionally stable precious children. Breastmilk is best but it's not always possible to do just that and you are not a bad mother if you formula feed.

I hope you find a solution that works for you and your family!!
Also, forgot to mention, pacifiers will not hurt your breastfeeding. Use one and see if it works. If you need to ask me any questions you can email me; I will be more than happy to help in any way!!

~Blessings,
Julie; 2/11/2009 5:27 PM
Anonymous said...: First of all, Harper is the cutest thing ever and she makes me want a little girl of my own! My little boy was the same way... he would just scream, scream, scream. His pediatrician gave him baby Zantac for acid reflux but that didn't work. He was just fussy and/or screaming for the first THREE Months! It seems like it's taking forever while your in the midst of it but it really does go by so fast. Hopefully Harper's will only last a few days!!! Do you give her a pacifier? Our doctor said that sometimes they just want to suck rather than nurse all the time... I know many drs are against pacifiers but Ours said it's probably because those doctors havent had to live with a screaming baby!; 2/11/2009 5:29 PM
Carol said...: Hi Kelly! I love seeing pics of you and your cute little family! Keep 'em coming. :)

All of mine were high maintenance at one point or another. My last one was the worst though! I have 4 and the oldest was 5. I wore the baby in the Baby B'jorn ALL the time. We finally figured out that her screaming in the evening was from the dairy that I was eating. With my second, I would go on walks in the stroller and also go for drives to get him to sleep. He still is a stinker! lol But maybe you should do an elimination diet to see if anything in you breastmilk is bothering her tummy. I hope you get it figured out.; 2/11/2009 5:29 PM
Kathryn said...: Kelly, I'm a new mom too and am going through the same thing and just want to tell you to hang in there with the feedings and holding. I'll think of you when I'm up at the same time and say a prayer for you. Ella has been sleeping through the night (9:30-5:00)for 3 days now and she is 9 weeks. You'll get there!!! www.davisdevelopments.blogspot.com.; 2/11/2009 5:30 PM
Cabra said...: Hi Kelly! I found your recipe blog a while back and have it linked on my blog. It took a while before I read your personal blog. I'm so thankful for the work you are doing for our King by sharing your love for him and your testimonies of all the things He does in your life!

I have a 10 month old. When he was little he cried and I needed to get things done. I don't suggest doing it all the time because they might get too dependent but I got a strap on carrier and put him in that so I could cook dinner and move around a litte! He always fell asleep in it but I didn't mind because there was no crying! I tried several brands before I found one I liked. The Jeep brand was the best. And I know Harper is a big baby, so was my Hunter. But you'll adjust to the weight on your shoulders eventually!; 2/11/2009 5:33 PM
Melissa said...: Have you ruled out reflux? I swear that was the problem with mine. The best way to calm is rocking head to heal and do not keep switching positions. Let her get settled even if you REALLY think it is not working. They also love to be held looking down at the floor. Relieves pressure from their belly.
Best of luck
Melissa
I did not feel like reading the 300 other comments to see if someone already said this :); 2/11/2009 5:33 PM
Mommy to 3 said...: My second cried a lot at first too. We watched The Happiest Baby on the Block DVD. She hadn't liked to be swaddled because we weren't doing it right, but after some practice she would instantly stop crying in her Miracle Blanket and just be able to fall asleep. It was like magic. Crazy. Hope this helps...; 2/11/2009 5:33 PM
Samantha said...: The headbands! & the outfits!
Harper is such a cool baby girl! All the other baby girls must be so jealous that Harper has the sweetest daddy and the loveliest (& most fashionable) momma ever!

I think the picture of the three of you is beautiful!

Sam; 2/11/2009 5:33 PM
Marilena said...: I haven't commented in a while but I just wanted to let you know that I prayed for harper everyday and I'm still praying for you!
About the high maintenance thing, I don't have much advice except to hang in there...My second baby, a girl, was very h.m.! have you tried nursing her while lying on the bed? I would do that often and catch a few winks at the same time. It took me a few weeks to get the hang of it but it was great and baby usually fell asleep too so we would just nap together. Also, if I was nursing and trying to nap at the same time I wouldn't worry about switching sides because the second breast is usually just dessert for baby and she will get most of the hind milk from the first breast. I would just make sure I fed her from the other side the next time.
Just remember this is only a season and it will change far too soon. Before you know it she will be sleeping through the night....

hugs from Phoenix,
Marilena; 2/11/2009 5:36 PM
Abbie said...: Ok, you've obviously gotten a lot of comments, and I didn't have the time to read through them all, so I'm sorry if I repeat!

When my Harper hit three weeks old, she became extremely fussy. I was exhausted, frustrated, and seemed to cry a lot. I was afraid she had colic. I took her to the doctor, and he informed me that about 80% of babies hit a fussy period around 3 weeks, but they eventually grew out of it. He suggested white noise. Girl, the bathroom exhaust fan became our best friend! Literally, we would roll her bassinet where it sat right in front of the bathroom and leave the fan on all the time. But he was right...she eventually grew out of it, and now she is just the happiest baby!

Best of luck, and just know... "This too shall pass."; 2/11/2009 5:37 PM
Anonymous said...: My advice (from a mom whose child had colic for 5 months) and is still very high maintenance at the age of 2: Read and watch "The Happiest Baby on the Block" by Harvey Karp. There's a book and DVD and it is a lifesaver!!! Good luck!; 2/11/2009 5:39 PM
Elissa said...: when i was struggling with the same things after bringing home my oldest, my friend gave me a copy of Dr.James Dobson's family handbook. it saved me! babies need so much comforting...and that's ok. no habits form until 3 months, so LOVE ALL YOU WANT! it is exhausting and draining. you have to find the right balance for your family. if you can find that book and read the section on sleep and feeding, it is worth it!; 2/11/2009 5:43 PM
Anonymous said...: The best kept secret to calm a baby . . . the vacuum! Turn it on next the Harper and hopefully she will just relax.

Good Luck!

KATIE P; 2/11/2009 5:46 PM
Tanya said...: Kelly, how does she do in the car, if she likes being in the carseat in the car, take her for a ride around the block, but basically, it'll all be over by 12 weeks for sure! She'll take regular naps and life will make sense again.; 2/11/2009 5:49 PM
Abby Johns said...: Okay, totally had the same screaming baby problem with my daughter, now 3 months old. First let me tell you, it gets better!

I HIGHLY recommend "The Happiest Baby on the Block." It will explain how you can calm her and help her get some better sleep. Don't write off that Miracle Blanket just yet. Our daughter cries immediately after we swaddle her, but 5 minutes later she is SOUND asleep. READ THAT BOOK! It saved our lives. ALSO, the height of the fussiness occurs around 6 weeks, so you only have a little while longer before it starts to die down.

I hope this all helps. She is simply PRECIOUS!; 2/11/2009 5:51 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly, I never give advice to people so I'll call this just a "suggestion!" Haha! I have two sons (4 & 2) and am pregnant with my first girl (due first week of May). My boys are pretty excited! Anyway, my little "suggestion" is something I'm sure you are already aware of. But pay attention to your diet. My oldest son reacted to blackberries and he screamed for 3 days straight until I figured it out. Harper could be reacting to something you are eating or drinking. And jalapenos cannot be eaten at all! The heat in the seeds goes straight to breast milk.

Just a thought! I'm sure she's just trying to get used to her new home after being at the hospital. I also went through horrible post partum anxiety after my first son was born. I still struggle with it even though I'm by nature a very laid back person! I recited Scripture any time fear tried to take hold. And prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed.....

Love reading your blog! I've prayed and continue to pray for precious Harper!

Amy; 2/11/2009 5:52 PM
amber said...: kelly, i work at a NICU in florida and we have a program that we offer our parents called "The Happiest Baby on the Block". It works fabulously in calming babies...I've witnessed it in our babies in the unit. Dr. Harvey Karp is a doc who started the program. You can find out more info at www.thehappiestbaby.com/
I hope this helps!

Blessings, amber; 2/11/2009 5:53 PM
Tales From My Empty Nest said...: Hang in there Kelly, it will get better. As the Mother of 2 girls 20 and 25, it has been a while since I was where you are, but I did nurse both of them until they were a year old. It takes hard work on your part, but it is so worth it. My girls were such healthy children and I attribute that to their nursing. I felt like I had my "boobs" out all the time, but if that is what it took to keep them happy, then so be it!!
I held my girls a lot too. There were days that all I would do is sit and nurse them when they were so little. That is some precious Mom/baby time!!!! Yes, there were days when I never got a shower, but the world didn't come to an end. This time will pass, Harper will begin sleeping better and she will be a year old before you know it. Savor every single MINUTE of time you have with her right now. Harper has been through a lot in her short little life and this may just be her way of adjusting to her new life at home with Mom and Dad(away from the hustle and bustle of the hospital). I'm still praying for sweet Harper and for your family. Yes, be sure to take some time to be by yourself and get away from the house. You need that time to regroup. Love & blessings from NC!; 2/11/2009 5:56 PM
Stephanie said...: With so many comments you may not even read this, but I will try. I am a Mom to 3 kids all were early and in the NICU. My oldest who is now 6 was on a vent and very, very sick when he was first born. All of my kids were super fussy and honestly, the best thing I found was to sleep with them. I bought a snuggle nest for our bed and it allowed him to be in our bed, but be safe. If he fussed I could just reach over and touch him. With the twins, I used a co-sleeper and nursed in bed. I know, people say don't do that, but honestly, it was the only way I could sleep! I almost always woke up and put them back in the co-sleeper. If not, I found that as a Mom I was just always aware that they were there. I would sleep till the next feeding and not even move! I always kept them on the other side of my husband so I didn't have to worry about him rolling on to them. One of my son's slept on my chest for the first month of his life! You do what you have to do and what works for your baby. She is a beautiful babe!; 2/11/2009 5:57 PM
Jessi said...: Harper is just precious...and those headbands/flowers--simply adorable!

Both of my babies nursed every 2 hours for MONTHS...it was exhausting because that's all I felt like I ever did. I have an almost 24lb. 9-month old and she's just now starting to space our her feedings more. UGH! And speaking of nursing, some babies are super sensitive to certain foods that mama eats. For both of mine, it was chocolate and dairy (just for a short while, though). Tomato-based foods have been known to cause fussiness, too. I would encourage you to take a look at what you've been eating (it takes about 6 hours for the "food" to reach the breastmilk). Have the doctors advised you not to take Harper outside until it warms up? For my son, an evening walk in the carrier/sling (around 7PM *every* night) was the ONLY thing to calm him down.

At this stage of the game, she's too young to be spoiled...enjoy holding that precious babe. And when you need to take a shower/go potty, it's okay to put her in a safe place and let her cry...she'll be okay. :-)

Not sure how much time/brainpower you have to read, but "The Happiest Baby on the Block" has been recommended to me more than once.

Sorry for the novel....I just wanted to say that a lot of us have gone through what you're going through and we survived. ;-) Just take it one day at a time...try something new each day until you find something that works. Harper's still figuring out how to be Harper as much as you are trying to figure out how to be Harper's mommy. ((HUGS)); 2/11/2009 6:00 PM
Anonymous said...: I found your blog thru boomama when you first became pregnant and enjoyed reading b/c I was pregnant throughout these last nine months also. I delivered a baby boy on the 17th of January and had read your blog in the early morning hours while trying distract myself from contractions.
I prayed for Harper while I was in Labor--she gave me focus! I am so glad she is home and healthy.
P.S. my first son had colic and only wanted to nurse--ALL DAY LONG! It helped to have Daddy put him to sleep at night after I fed him because, if I rocked him to sleep, then he would smell me and want milk.
My new baby enjoys the vibrating feature on his bouncer and being cocooned in the snuggli.
You might also try going for a drive (past Sonic). FYI: she'll survive a five minute cry in the safety of her pack and play or crib while you take a quick shower, or grab something to eat.
Take heart! You'll soon be in a rhythem and on a schedule that will help her feel secure and you regain your sanity! Take it day by day. Thank you for your wonderful blog.; 2/11/2009 6:00 PM
Anonymous said...: She's adorable in her big bows! Do you make them, or did someone make them for you?? So cute!

My only advice comes from when my son was an infant and would not sleep, we had to wrap him up in a blanket (swaddle I guess is the word) and rock with him...once he was asleep, we could lay him - still swaddled - in his bouncy seat or cradle for at least an hour! Good luck!! :)

Patty in California; 2/11/2009 6:01 PM
Roxanne said...: I had to drive my girl around in the car. . .it worked.

I have a dear friend who is on baby number five, and she SWEARS by baby slings. LOVES THEM. Baby is happy. . .mommy's hands are free. When baby goes to sleep, Mommy just unhooks the sling and VOILA!

Let me know if you want her blog site--she has some awesome pics of and makes her own slings and also has recommendations for which ones to buy.; 2/11/2009 6:04 PM
Alison said...: I'm going to have to read all of the comments when I get a second! I have a high maintenance 9 week old boy! He would make a cute little boyfriend for Miss Harper
We think she's just adorable!
Alison; 2/11/2009 6:05 PM
The Fabulous Life of a Southern Belle said...: Hey chica, you have a bajillion comments and you prob won't even see this but Harper is soooo stinkin' cute. I want a baby now just so she can look like Harper in her big ole bow. =); 2/11/2009 6:05 PM
Heather said...: GIRL...PLEASE get out and get a sonic!!! If you don't, I might have to drive up there and leave it on your doorstep!!! That was so sweet of your friend...and I hope you know....you ARE that kind of friend!!! No doubt! I don't have any good advice (looks like you have gotten alot) but I will be praying specifically for the constancy of the eating/screaming!!! Love ya!; 2/11/2009 6:06 PM
Faye Hicks said...: Hang in there! I am the mother of a 4 month old (first child). He wanted to nurse every 10 minutes seemed like. After about a month and a half I gave up and went to foumula. I felt really guilty about it at first but in the end it was the right decision for us. I am guilty of holding my son ALL the time. It's a blessing and a curse. But, even at 4 months he is getting so independent from me that I know these days are numbered. Do try to get some time to yourself even if it is by taking an extra long shower. Getting away always makes coming back much sweeter.; 2/11/2009 6:06 PM
Sarah said...: Read "Happiest Baby on the Block" It was wonderful for us!; 2/11/2009 6:07 PM
Christina said...: She is beautiful...esp. in her bows. God is so good. My daughter (who is now 4 years old) was sick when she was first born and spent 10 days in the hospital...countless IVs and heel sticks. I feel the first introduction for a baby like that is pain, and it causes them to be fussy, colicky, needy for a while. In my case, the first 4 months....I too nursed round the clock and never slept. I relied on lots of music. The only thing I could do was hold her, hold her, hold her; hold her like she wanted to be held when she was first born. What eventually helped, and still does, is white noise and swaddling. She would instantly calm when I turned on the faucet or shower. We have a fisher-price crib aquarium that plays white noise (sounds of babbling brooks, rain, ocean, etc. plus music) that would calm, soothe, and eventually lull her to sleep...and 4 years later, it still does. As far as swaddling, she would pop her hands out, but I would put them back in. Eventually, she loved it and was swaddled until she was one year old. I also found that coming home with her after all the time in the hospital was very difficult as I sensed more of the 'baby blues' as all the intesity and excitement of hospital life wore off. I lift you and Harper up right now to our Great God. May He rain down on you His great peace which passes all understanding. May you find comfort in His love and rely on His strength alone to get you through each day, each hour, each minute. Harper is His miracle. Amen.; 2/11/2009 6:10 PM
Rebecca said...: My daughter, who is now 2, was the EXACT same way. Very high maintenance and ate every two hours. I always felt like a milking cow! Ha She also did not nap. People didn't believe me when I told them, I always wanted to say "no, I am serious, she never sleeps". When she was a couple weeks older than what Haper is we had to let her cry it out in her bed for naps and at night. It was the hardest thing, it made me cry, but after a week or so she was on a great sleeping schedule, and has been ever since then. She was much happier in between naps too. She now trots to her room when it is nap and bed time. The book "On Becoming Baby Wise" was the best parenting book I ever read.; 2/11/2009 6:11 PM
tgillock said...: My oldest daughter and my youngest daughter were both very cranky babies! My oldest was by far the crankiest, she would either be asleep or screaming. Nothing in between. If she was awake (which was most of the time) she was screaming. He favorite awake times were from midnight to 5am, full on scream fest. This lasted about 3 months. My baby was a NICU baby and I think there is something about them, that they get so used to the background noise that when they come home it's hard for them to adjust to quiet and dark. So we got a white noise machine and kept a night light on and it seemed to help. But either way they will grow out of it. Just keep remembering that this too shall pass and that your doing a GREAT job!!!; 2/11/2009 6:11 PM
Katie said...: I don't know if someone else has written this but I have had two friends whose babies were in the NICU and when they brought them home it was really hard. One thing that they both did that seemed to help was have a noise maker in whatever room she slept in and then kept the lights on. I think from the NICU they got use to noise and the light on all the time.

I hope it gets easier for you soon. Just know it does get easier. She won't be a teenager who screams all day...or at least we hope so.; 2/11/2009 6:13 PM
Valerie said...: That little scrunched up face is just precious. I love all of the sweet little outfits you have for her. I'm thinking I need to get my little girl some more bows. :)

In response to your question I would have said to try carrying her in a sling... but you said that and it didn't seem to work. My 2nd was a little harder to please. Love her and kiss her, and take a break when you need it. This is all an adjustment for her too.

Blessings to you.; 2/11/2009 6:16 PM
Unknown said...: Hey Kelly - you don't know me at all because I've only commented once (and you get SO many comments!) but I felt SO much for you because my little one is almost 5 months old, and I didn't think I would survive those first six weeks at home. Literally. I remember telling my hubby that breastfeeding was the hardest thing I had ever done. Who knew it was so much work?! I felt like I might as well just sit on the couch with my shirt off all day and night and feed her haha. It gets better as far as nursing goes, and sleeping too. But the truth is that my daughter HATES to sleep and there are days when I feel like I am at the end of my rope. I've tried the sling, the swing, car rides, strolling, rocking, nursing to sleep, Babywise . . . the thing is that you have to find what works for YOU and for Harper . . .and PRAY - a lot! :-) I'll be praying for you too!

One thing that worked for me was the sling - it at least freed up my hands to get some stuff done!; 2/11/2009 6:17 PM
Kasey said...: Hang in there with the nursing. I promise it gets easier! If you had told me 9 months ago that I'd still be nursing, I wouldn't have believed it. I felt like my baby was attached to me all day. What you are experiencing is completely normal!; 2/11/2009 6:18 PM
Melissa said...: Sounds like Classic Colic to me. My daughter had Colic starting at 3 weeks and lasted until 14 weeks. Some dr's will prescribe levasin drops for it, some won't.... Ask your doc about it. If there is nothing they will do, you just have to wait it out and pray for your sanity!! It ends as quickly as it starts!; 2/11/2009 6:21 PM
KRISTEN'S PALACE said...: i just seen these pics on facebook and got right on here to see your update, your blog makes my day. :) harper, you are a cutie pie!; 2/11/2009 6:21 PM
Anonymous said...: We played a country music radio station for our son when he was little. He would sleep fine during the day with everything going on but at night would be all night until we tried that. He slept alot more with that playing softly in the night. Mistelle; 2/11/2009 6:25 PM
Ter said...: harper must be one of those babies that get cuter every day. Love the head gear. ;)

I'm sorry to hear of another child struggling, thank you for letting people know about others who need prayers and warm thoughts.; 2/11/2009 6:26 PM
Aubs said...: My first little guy was like this but dang...it was almost 8 years ago so its hard to remember! I do know that car rides worked sometimes. I would just strap him in and drive and drive and drive. It would help him sleep a little bit and i think it helped me to get out of the house for a few!

What a blessing to have a loving, helpful husband! Hope you were able to get out of the house for that 30 minutes....even something that simple can make all the difference! Hang in there!; 2/11/2009 6:28 PM
Anonymous said...: One word--MYELICON! Delaynee was that way and I was told that when they feel gassy, they think they are hungry. A little bit of Myelicon and we were usally calm and content within about 10 minutes. Our Dr. told us to use as much as we felt we needed because their little bodies don't absorb it. I think his exact words were "Buy it by the gallon if you need to." :o); 2/11/2009 6:30 PM
Anonymous said...: I have a three month old and at her 2 month dr's visit they asked if she was cooing-I was like NO she's either eating, crying or sleeping! She was never happy and I couldn't put her down AT ALL. He told me she has acid reflux and we started two medications, she thank God is a happy normal baby now and is starting to sleep through the night. We also reacently started adding rice cereal to her bottles and that helped with the spitting up-I'm not sure if you're having that problem or not. But my dr. explained that they don't have to be actually spitting up to have acid reflux it just comes back up in their throats and it burns and they scream, I'm so glad I listened to him and tried the medicine. Good Luck =); 2/11/2009 6:34 PM
Stephanie said...: I'll tell ya there are days when there just isn't much sleep :) I guess you've figured that out now.

Allie is better than Caleb was but when he was a baby he slept best when I just held him on my chest. Wasn't the most ideal thing but it was the only way to get sleep so I just left him there. Now Allie on the other hand she likes our bed. She'll wake up as soon as we put her in her crib but when we lay her down in between us she's zonked out in a heartbeat!

Love the pics...Harper is such a sweetheart! Hope you can get some rest.; 2/11/2009 6:34 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly,
My daughter was so needy! She cried constantly and I used to put her in the snuggli and walk very slowly (to not bounce her head) on the treadmill. That motion always put her right to sleep, but when I got off, she woke up! Stinker! Hang in there, honey. Now she's a wonderful 7 year old!!!; 2/11/2009 6:36 PM
Anonymous said...: Swaddle her up and find the Mylicon drops. She may be gassy.; 2/11/2009 6:39 PM
Immeasurably More Mama said...: A supportive and helpful husband is such a blessing when you have a newborn!

Keep trying to swaddle. D didn't like it at first but grew to LOVE it and it really helped calm him when he was fussy.

Also, have you read The Happiest Baby on the Block? It was a lifesaver for us! Even better for new parents short on time is the DVD for this book. (:; 2/11/2009 6:39 PM
Audrey said...: Sorry if this is repetative...both my nephews were NICU babies and one of them HATED the silence of home. Maybe a white noise machine or the tv on would help her. Also, as the Mama of a (former) fat girl too, and extra ounce or two via a bottle after nursing might help sustain her a bit.

The Happiest Baby on the Block was my Mommy bible. Are you swaddling her tight enough? Also, have you tried swaddling her tightly and then putting her in her swing (on it's highest setting...sounds scary, but it works!) with a paci? Don't give up on these things, my daughter slept in her swing for over 6 weeks.

Just remember she's just as new to this as you are. I know it's exhausting, but I promise you all get into your groove her shortly.

Your blog and you family are adorable!!; 2/11/2009 6:43 PM
Rathi said...: Glad to see a post! Harper's green bow is too cute! Hope you got a chance to go to Sonic!! Praying for all of you!!! Have a great rest of your week! Take care!; 2/11/2009 6:44 PM
Surviving the Smiths said...: Still love the hats/bows!

As for the crying, one of mine liked skin to skin contact. He in his diaper against my (bare)chest. Listening to music - specifically at that time we slow danced to Sara Mclaughlin!

Best of luck - she is beautiful - God is Good!

Continued prayers from Tennessee.; 2/11/2009 6:50 PM
Anonymous said...: I know you said that you've tried slings, but have you tried a Moby Wrap? They keep baby so close to you, which for most babies that's what they WANT most, is to be close to Mommy. :) A friend of mine uses a Moby wrap, and almost the INSTANT that she puts her baby in there, she's asleep (the baby that is). :); 2/11/2009 6:52 PM
Amy said...: I am way down the list of comments and you might not even get down to mine. But, I just had to respond to your post.

My first child, Caleb (we have three now) was VERY high maintenance. I'm not going to give you the list of how difficult it was to get him to sleep and how we finally did. Because, every child is different and YOU will figure out what works for Harper.

I just wanted to say that after three and knowing that we are done, one of my few regrets is that I didn't just enjoy every minute with Caleb. When he was an infant and we were without sleep, it seemed like the hard times would last forever. Now, I know that they really are so short and so sweet.

You have had a reality check that I didn't have, so some of this is probably unnecessary. But, I just had to say it. Harper is absolutely beautiful, and I love checking in to see what you will have her wearing each day. We have 2 boys and the third is a girl. The clothes are SO MUCH FUN!!!

Thanks for sharing your life with us.

Amy Rogers; 2/11/2009 6:54 PM
Anonymous said...: I have a 11 month old daughter. I highly recommend the book babywise about putting your baby on a schedule. It really works, my daughter was sleeping through the night (7 to 7) by 13 weeks.; 2/11/2009 6:57 PM
Michelle said...: Do you have a boppy *newborn* lounger? If not, I recommend you get one ASAP and see if it works! My cousin was gifted one and never thought she'd use it (she already had the regular boppy) but she also had a super finicky baby and it ended up working wonders. That pillow was the only thing that calmed her and she would often fall asleep in it. I think they outlasted the recommended age limits on it because she liked it so much and they are keeping it for baby #2. Look here for other customer reviews- they sell one with a really beautiful slipcover too! :) Good luck!

http://www.amazon.com/Boppy-1303615K-Newborn-Lounger/dp/B0009RG8E6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1234400385&sr=8-3; 2/11/2009 7:01 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly! I am so glad to have found your blog through Boomama! You & your sweet family are precious! We'd be fast friends if you lived in Tennessee! We have a
4 mo. old baby girl and a 4 yr old big boy...Here is what helped me the most:

1.) WARM BLANKETS...toss them in the dryer until they are nice and toasty, then swaddle her as tight as you can. (a sweet nurse taught us this...oh, it's been a life saver for us...works like a charm for tummy troubles too) The nurse also warmed up burp cloths and stuffed them inside her little shirt before she swaddled her...I think God put that nurse on the night shift just for us :)

2.) Set her seat near anything that makes noise...vaccuums, exhaust fan in kitchen, air purifer, dryer, etc...the "humming" sound does wonders.

3.) There IS a light at the end of the tunnel...it DOES get better...especially around 3 months! Way to go for breastfeeding...it's exhausting and confining at times, but WELL worth it!

Sweet Harper is a little doll! I wouldn't trade my sweet boy for anything in the world, but these girls are SO much fun!

Love-
Sarah, TN; 2/11/2009 7:09 PM
Anonymous said...: The best thing I ever did for my baby that wouldn't sleep was to start feeding him formula! Breastmilk just wasn't doing the trick. The dr said it's because breastmilk goes through the body alot faster than formula, which doesn't keep them satisfied as long. Just a thought...don't know if you are dead set on nursing but this really worked for us!; 2/11/2009 7:11 PM
Cena @ Unexpected Necessities said...: I can totally relate....try a little bit of cereal(poke a larger hole in the nipple) to thicken up her bottle (even though most pediatricians are totally against it, but you've got a 10 pounder!) or try gripe water or Mylicon drops for tummy trouble. It's probably a combo of not getting full and/or tummy trouble.

If that's the case, then no amount of swaddling,rocking,singing,etc. will help!

Jancie started the same symptoms that Harper has around 3 weeks, and I used those 2 remedies. She started sleeping alot longer, and at about 6 weeks she slept thru the night.

All babies are different, so you will figure out what is best for Harper.; 2/11/2009 7:12 PM
Anonymous said...: Hey Kelly, I have loved following along with your blog. You seem like such a beautiful person inside and out! First-that is so cool about having gone to school with your DR!! It is a small world indeed! Anyways, as for the baby-I'm sure you have probably gotten so much advice, I'm not sure if you will even get to my comment there are so many today! But the two things I would suggest are to run the vacuum when she gets really fussy...my MIL had told me that one of her friends had burnt out 3 vacuum motors on her children...I can't explain it but it worked for us, and second-we had a really big baby too and big babies are hungry!! You might want to try to supplement with a tiny bit of formula too. As a new mom I was still getting used to the whole feeding thing and after I got over the whole formula thing and started to supplement a little we all got along better. I was able to catch up with his appetite after a few weeks. Good luck!!; 2/11/2009 7:12 PM
Bailey's Leaf said...: I didn't get to read the other comments, so they may say the same. Harper may be high maintenence right now because-- well-- she was high maintenence for the first three weeks of her life. She may have her days and nights mixed since they probably had the lights on all the time at the hospital. Make certain that the house is bright in the day and make sure that you go around and do all the normal things that you would. Don't be quiet on Harper's account. Make sure that you have minimal light on at night. This will help the day/night transition. As far as baby holding, have you tried baby wearing? I call them baby hangers, but the front packs? I didn't use them, but I've known plenty of people who have had to. Also, keep track of what you're eating vs. her fussiness. Since you are nursing, she is getting what you are eating. Eat broccoli pie (if there is such a thing), you'll probably have a gassy baby that is not happy soon thereafter. My sister did this with a quart of strawberries. Keep track of it though. Plenty of babies have acid reflux. If she continues with fussiness, this may be something you might want to bring up with your doctor. Some simple medication can take care of it. In the meantime, they have baby wedges that the wee-widget could sleep on. You may be able to try that, too.

We adopted and were blessed with a baby that was very good and slept through the night at 5 1/2 weeks. I've had plenty of friends go through what you are going through. Sleep is precious stuff. Amazing though. We look great, then we have kids realize that days have gone by and the hair brush hasn't been picked up. It's all good, though. You look beautiful! :); 2/11/2009 7:14 PM
Jill said...: In my experience with big babies, they won't sleep and stop fussing until they finally get on rice cereal. Your baby's doctor will probably tell you it's too early for that. (Mine always did, but I did it anyway.) You will be shocked at how much better she acts when she's getting her little belly full. Take care! Jill; 2/11/2009 7:14 PM
Leslie said...: Hi Kelly - I've been reading your blog ever since Harper was born - and you've all been in my prayers! I'm so glad she's home and healthy!! She is such a darling little girl!

I know you said you've tried a sling to calm her, but have you tried a wrap (like a moby wrap or a sleepy wrap?) My little one HATED a sling - but the Sleepy Wrap did the trick - I think he liked it because he was chest to chest with me and wasn't so restrained as in a sling....

I'll be praying things get better with Harper's sleeping(and I'm sure they will!); 2/11/2009 7:15 PM
the mulhollands said...: I've been following your blog for awhile. Congrats on Harper. Our son was colic--for 9 months. He hated his bouncer and was only happy being held. We did figure out a few tricks--baby bjorn and loud music. I would put him in his swing and crank up the music so loud and that would put him right to sleep. Also, vacuumed the house with him in the baby bjorn and mowed the yard. I HIGHLY recommend the book "Happiest Baby on the Block" by Harvey Karp. He gives great tips to soothe a fussy and unhappy baby. It was wonderful!!!Good luck.; 2/11/2009 7:15 PM
Taylor said...: The first few months are the worst and the best. You love having that new little one, but it's so hard getting into a routine and helping her figure out what's up. Grace went through a period where all she did was cry and cry and cry, no matter what I did. Then one day she was fine and started sleeping regularly! I'm sure she just wants you to hold her all the time because for the first 2 and a half weeks of her life nobody could hold her so she's gotta make up for it!!!

I promise it'll get better!! Just look at that beautiful little face!!!; 2/11/2009 7:16 PM
Anonymous said...: OK, I know this beyond weird BUT my son had collic and would cry for hours on end. I took him to the doctor one day and the doctor grabbed the paper on the exam table and shook it. My son was silent for the first time in what seems like years!!! When we got home we turned the radio inbetween stations where there was just static. My son was soothed and silent - it was a little bit of heaven on earth - worth a shot with your Angel.; 2/11/2009 7:18 PM
Little's said...: Hello Kelly-this is the first time I have commeted on your blog I just started reading and LOVE it!!! Congratulations on you healthy beautiful girl! I highly recommend swaddling Harper....tightly! My twins were swaddled until they were about 6 months.; 2/11/2009 7:19 PM
MBKimmy said...: My Son now 6 months is/was the same way - we had to cry it out - but she is too young for you to start that process. The only advise I can give you is to hold her and enjoy it ... Soon it will get easier - but for now hold her and love her, but sooner or later you will have to let her cry! Sucks but I am sure with all the attention she got in the hospital she is just still begging for it! AND SHE KNOWS she can get it!; 2/11/2009 7:19 PM
Anonymous said...: Sorry, forgot this in my last comment...stay FAR, FAR away from caffeine! My baby was WEARING ME
OUT, and my pediatrician asked me if I was consuming caffeine...YES, I was...SONIC to be exact :)

Anyway, he explained that caffeine stays in our system 22 hrs, but it stays in an infants system 90 + hours! So, I switched to Sprite and it got so much better! Sonic vanilla coke will be a TREAT when I am not nursing anymore!

Good Luck!

Sarah; 2/11/2009 7:22 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly,

I am so encourgaged and uplifted by your faith and love for the Lord. I am a Christian, but have been struggling with my 8 yr. old (my only of 4 that didn't spend time in NICU). Your blog brings me much hope and helps me remember each day to turn to the Lord and remember that he is with us and taking care of us.

In response to your questions about Harper not sleeping and just crying. What I have learned is that my 3 got so used to the sounds in the NICU that when I got them home and tried to keep everything quiet, they didn't sleep. I did my best to keep them on the same schedule that they were on in the NICU and as hard as it might be to let them fuss a little before you pick them up to comfort them. You want to eventually teach them to go to sleep on their own after you lay them down. Also, my first was my hardest as far as getting him to stop crying and to sleep. I learned that he could sense that I was nervous and anxious and just thinking "Lord, please just let him go to sleep". So just relax and know that you are doing an awesome job as a mom and maybe that will help also.

Harper is a beautiful baby, that is a true miracle! I can't believe those smiles at 3 weeks - just gorgeous!

Hang in there - hope something that I have said will be helpful!; 2/11/2009 7:22 PM
Val said...: I was so glad to see this post and see how well you all are doing. If it helps any, being tired and worn out is normal. Breast babies require a lot the first few weeks but if you can get over the hump you will be so thankful. The baby is beautiful!; 2/11/2009 7:22 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly!
When my baby was a tiny one, she had a big crying fit and her 11 year old sister picked her up and layed the baby's tummy over her arm and swung her back and forth all the while humming just a hmmmmm, hmmmmmm--it worked like a charm!; 2/11/2009 7:31 PM
bethany said...: What a beautiful girl!! Just know that in times where things get a little hectic that you are a great mom. And, the stages are so short... once you figure out how to keep her happy and fed something else comes up to throw you off. My solution? Lullabies and a whole lot of bouncing.

And prayer :); 2/11/2009 7:31 PM
Anonymous said...: I had a baby that had sleep issues for about 8 months. Often times running the vaccuum cleaner would help. Have you tried that?; 2/11/2009 7:34 PM
mother of three fellas said...: Oh I totally understand on the nursing thing, my little guy nursed constantly,no bottle, no pacci nothing just me! It will get easier though. Harper is in a growth spurt,and she will get better on a schedule. My fellow just turned 12 months and were working on the weaning thing, it's hard to. Hang in there, it's the best for her!
I love reading your blog,Ive been reading it oh for about a YEAR and a half!!
I'm so glad Harper is doing well, I prayed many of prayers for her.; 2/11/2009 7:36 PM
Amy said...: Mine was a crier too unless I was holding him. He loved to be outside though and that helped...he would actually sit in his bouncy or swing or even just in the carseat and I would sit next to him in a chair and it would help tons just to get fresh air for both of us. Also, mine slept in his carseat in the crib for the first 5 months! It was the only was he would sleep! My ped said it was fine! So those are 2 things you can try. I remember days where I would not get my teeth brushed until 3 in the afternoon...it doesn't seem like it now, but it will go fast and you will long for these days later on. Promise! Harper is a doll!!!!; 2/11/2009 7:39 PM
The Laney Family said...: Do you really get time to read all of these posts? I just wanted to let you know how much of an inspiration you have been to me. I am on you prayer blog for women that are waiting for the child that God has waiting for them. I just want to thank you for what you have done. My view on this whole situation. God has used your life to change so many others and I hope that I get to hug your neck one day- if not here on earth- I will in heaven!! I'm so glad that your beautiful little baby is doing so well...thank the good Lord every time you hear those screams! God bless you!
Adair; 2/11/2009 7:40 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi,
I have never posted but I firmly believe in scheduling with flexibility. I did this with all three of my girls. When they were newborns, I did a 2 1/2 to 3 hour rountine. Feedtime, Waketime, and Sleeptime. So you would nurse her. Then wake time doesn't have to be long. Change her diaper, give her a bath, try out the swing, bouncy seat, etc. And then I would put her down for a nap (I would let my babies cry 10 minutes and then I would go and comfort them if they are still crying) and 2 1/2 or 3 hours do it all over again. (But at night time their is no wake time) I got my info from Baby Wise by the Ezzos. I'm sorry I am a little passionate about this way because it was wonderful with my babies and it worked with all my girlfriend moms.
I am still praying for you and I am glad I witnessed a miracle with your little girl.; 2/11/2009 7:40 PM
Susan said...: She is just precious in those headbands.
As far as advice, my daughter, who just turned one, was just like that. She nursed for comfort, but had reflux and so the comfort actually caused the discomfort and she wanted to be with me all the time. Medication helped that some, but the desire to be with me stuck around for awhile.
One thing that I swear by is a white noise machine. It really helps my kids sleep and stay asleep.
Hope you have a deep sleeper soon!; 2/11/2009 7:43 PM
TG's Mom said...: Keep up with the swaddling...they fight it at first but it really does work and it is SO worth it! Also pick up a copy of "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child"...it will help with sleep issues down the road. Hang in there!!! You are doing all the right stuff and both you and Harper will figure each other out soon. I'm so happy to hear she is doing so well!!!; 2/11/2009 7:46 PM
Denton Family said...: Hi, I am new to your blog and I love it. I am encouraged by your faith. I have 3 kids under 7 and nursed them all. I suggest watching your diet....she could have gas from foods you are eating, and the Baby Whisper book..swaddle, white noise and other things to mimic womb. I agree with others this time passes quickly. enjoy every cry.; 2/11/2009 7:49 PM
Yoli said...: It's hard to believe Harper is a new born. She is soooo animated in her facial expressions! She has the cutest clothes and face. What a doll. Have you thought about starting her on cereal? I was a big baby too and I was soooo hungry that they started me on cereal immediately. It helped and I wasn't too overweight or anything. Hang in there and trust your mommy insticts. You know better than the Dr.s. Lots of love,
Yoli; 2/11/2009 7:50 PM
Mandy said...: I haven't read the other comments so maybe this was already mentioned but is it possible that Harper is having withdrawls from any pain meds or sedation meds? My son Grady didn't sleep for over 24 hours when they first took him off of sedation meds (after the vent) and the second time his withdrawls started again but we weaned him much much slower and it was better. Just a thought.; 2/11/2009 7:50 PM
Mandy said...: Kelly, I am so glad to have stumbled upon your blog about 3 weeks ago! My name is Mandy Bean. My husband, Clint, is a friend of Scott's. They met when they worked together in ISD. I have so enjoyed praying for you and your sweet angel! Harper has become a regular prayer request in our home groups and bible studies as well. I want to congratulate you now on meeting all of her needs for 3 whole weeks! Doesn't it seem unreal that you are able to keep such an innocent, dependent little thing living all by yourself? It's so humbling...God chose YOU because he knew you were the very best! No one could do better. It just blows my mind when I think about it with my own babies.

I wanted to comment on your sleep issue as well. I'm sure you're getting all kinds of information. I have a 3 year old and a 9 month old and, believe me, I think I've read just about every sleep book on the market. Really...I'm not lying! By far, the best I've come across is called "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child". It is divided by the age and personality of the child. It's not one of those "all kids do this" books. Plus, you can keep referring to it every 3 months until she's a teenager! There's a section for babies up to 6 weeks called "extremely fussy" babies and several techniques and testimonies on what worked from other parents too. I recommend it SO highly that I just left the longest comment in my life! Ha! When you fall into a routine and are able to get out and about, we'd love to have you all over sometime!; 2/11/2009 7:54 PM
Taren said...: Hi! I have been keeping up with you and sweet Harper! My little girl was born 9 pds 2 oz. and these babies that are born really big always want to eat!! One thing that I would do that helped so much (we lived by the miracle blanket) is to swaddle her in her miracle blanket and put her in her swing. Some reason this worked wonders! I saw it on a video from a specialist that babies just want to be back in the womb until around 3 months and this makes them feel like they are. Being tightly swaddled makes our "big babies" feel what they felt when they were smushed into our bellies! I hope it works for you as it did for me. You have an adorable baby girl.; 2/11/2009 7:54 PM
Mandy said...: One more thing...If you're desperate enough, I'd be glad to leave my book at your front door. :) Just let me know - I don't mind at all!; 2/11/2009 7:57 PM
Amanda said...: swaddle, swaddle, swaddle!!!! also, check out the book - happy baby, healthy baby, something like that - awesome sleep advice! don't worry this will pass, she has alot of ctaching-up to do and she is just making up for last time. again, swaddle, it WILL change your life - just make sure she is tightly swaddled and can't get out, also, the swing! (while swaddled, even better!)...; 2/11/2009 7:57 PM
Anonymous said...: give her some baby rice, a tablespoon with milk to make it thin. she'll love it and sleep 3hrs. she's a big girl she needs more FOOD. I had 3 girls, most doctors don't feed as early as when my babies were born but it didn't hurt them and it sure helped me. Ask your doctor about it. Or you mom.; 2/11/2009 8:02 PM
Angela said...: I'm not sure if someone else mentioned this, but she may have an allergy to dairy. I have had several friends whose babies screamed for the first few weeks b/c they were breastfeeding and the dairy they (the moms) were eating/drinking were causing it.
It is really hard, but try cutting out dairy for a week to see if that helps.

Good luck. I know you're so glad she's doing great, but this part is still super hard!! :); 2/11/2009 8:05 PM
Anonymous said...: I had twins in the NICU for five weeks and when we brought them home they stayed up ALL night too! My husband and I got very familiar with British shows on PBS at 2 am. If I could do anything differently (looking back) I would really have focused on reflux issues. Almost always when a baby wants to eat and eat and eat they are either going through a growth spurt (like you said :) ) or comforting themselves with milk to deal with the acid reflux. Many times the baby will not even spit up but they still have it. Reflux can come up to the back of their throat and go back down. The best way to tell is a reflux study, but that is not very fun to go through for the baby. Another effective way is to write down info about the feedings. I would write down what time you start feeding, how long it takes, etc. I would especially see how she acts about 30 minutes after the feeding. I would literally journal exactly when she cries and for how long. It is amazing how when things are on paper, we can see more clearly (especially when we lack sleep!) Another thing that SAVED me was gas relief. Simithicone (not sure how to spell it) is a very easy product to give to babies. It is cheap and usually comes in a generic brand. It is considered perfectly safe and harmless, yet I found it EXTREMELY effective! Good luck! She is beautiful. Much love to you and yours. Happy Hearts Day!; 2/11/2009 8:07 PM
3 Peanuts said...: Oh sweetie....I am not sure if you'll even have the time to read all of these but my first born (he is 11 now) was like this...cried A LOT. He ended up having colic (I hope that is not the case with Harper) but the first few months are just tough. Take as much help as you can from others and your sweet hubby, pray and just hang in there and before you know it they are on to a new stage ---in my case a tantrum throwing 2 year old (my 3rd chid).

Hugs,
Kim; 2/11/2009 8:07 PM
Heather and Travis said...: I am by no means an expert on children, as I have only been a mommy myself for about six months. Our daughter was in the NICU for quite sometime and when we brought her home she would NOT sleep. We didn't know what to do! We had her sleeping in our room and one night we just decided to see how she would do in her own room. That very night she slept like a champ! My thinking...she was used to sleeping by herself from her NICU days and maybe she needed to be by herself at home.

Harper is absolutely precious! I am so happy that things are going well. I LOVE that hats and flowers. Cutie!; 2/11/2009 8:09 PM
Carrie said...: I have been following your blog recently. I had a baby that was constantly at the boob and wouldn't sleep. My rescue was the Moby Wrap!! It saved me. She would snuggle up in it and sleep, okay if not sleep, she would atleast be content. It takes some practice to wear it but it is worth it, at 17 months we still use it. Hang in there!!; 2/11/2009 8:11 PM
THE GREENS said...: I am a new reader and have been praying for Harper! I am so glad she is healthy. About her fussiness I would ask her pediatrician about her arms or shoulders sometimes large babies over 8 pounds have an injury during the birth process and this can be quite painful. Here is a website to check out if you would like more info. you can watch to see if she is moving both arms the same or if one is more limp than the other. My daughter was nine pounds nine ounces at birth and was injured she has a right brachial plexus injury. If you have any questions feel free to email me.; 2/11/2009 8:13 PM
Anonymous said...: You could try to supplement with a couple of bottles at night to see if that helps, but if not, I would talk to your doctor about acid reflux...all three of our boys had it and there is a range of things you can do about it.

Good luck and God bless you and your family! She is adorable!!!; 2/11/2009 8:14 PM
Leigh Ann said...: Harper is so precious! Maybe she wants to pledge Chi Delta!!!

I can so relate to the no hair combing, hopefully a shower today, no sleep kind of days! They will pass before you know it. It is an adventure though, isn't it?

I think Harper got her nap out when she got to sleep so much at first, and now she is making up for it! :) I am so thrilled Harper is home and healthy. She is such a beauty!; 2/11/2009 8:16 PM
hey mommy said...: Kelly - Harper sounds a lot like my son when he was first born. He never slept and wanted to be held constantly. My 2 saving graces were Mylicon and getting him OUT of the bassinet next to our bed. The Mylicon helped with gas discomfort after feedings and he was much happier in his crib. I slept much better - when he allowed sleep anyway - without him in the same room as me. With each baby grunt, snort, neigh (yes, I think he was a pony in those early weeks)I would wake up. During the day, I would just lay him on the living room floor while I did stuff around the house or napped on the couch. Do what you have to do Girlfriend to get some zzzz's. Even if that means sleeping with her in the chair or couch. Another thing he liked was sleeping on his belly on my chest. You cannot spoil a newborn and no bad habits are formed in the first 3 months.; 2/11/2009 8:19 PM
Whitney said...: I am very impressed that your bed is made! Hang in there - it will get easier each day as you figure her out.; 2/11/2009 8:20 PM
~EMILY~ said...: Both my kids were like that at that age. We found the swing worked best with our daughter but not with our son. The car is the trick. I would load them up and drive around the block. It would put them right out and the best part was one they were out I would just pick the car seat upa nd drop in in the pack and play. Try it some time.; 2/11/2009 8:25 PM
Sarah Sharp said...: I'm so glad that she's home and doing so well! She is just beautiful!

I went through the crazy sleepless nurse all day schedule with my baby too and it was exhausting! I would say with her being almost 4 weeks that she is probably going through a growth spurt like you thought so it should calm down. Just try and get a full feeding in each time and don't let her snack-feed. Two books I like were "The Happiest Baby on the Block" and "Baby Wise". HBOTB is pretty much all about how to deal with colicky, fussy babies. The book goes over the 5 S's which are swaddle, shush, suck, side and swing. Swaddle her tight, do a loud shushing sound in her ear which mimics the womb, give her a paci or nurse her, put her on her side to give pressure against her belly and swing her in your arms or in her swing. You should use up to all 5 simultaneously, not just choose one and try it. "Baby Wise" gets some pretty bad reviews because it can seem harsh but its about getting them into a predictible routine. We did it and it took us about 8-9 weeks to get our routine down then he was sleeping 10 hours at night by 10 weeks. Good luck!; 2/11/2009 8:27 PM
Sarah Sharp said...: Also do you have a peanut shell or similar sling you can put her in? The tightness of it plus her being right next to your heart so she can hear it would probably calm her down plus keep your hands free. They're much more comfy than baby bjorns and a whole lot cuter!

www.thepeanutshell.com; 2/11/2009 8:33 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi! Beautiful baby girl...my daughter was colicky and I felt like we tried everything. It came down to just surviving every day, and going to Target a lot. (She liked the car ride and staring up at the ceiling of the store.) It didn't matter what I ate or didn't eat. We tried probiotics to help her digestive system and I took her to a chiropractor many, many times. We tried homeopathic Colic Calm to little avail. I had to bounce on a stupid exercise ball to get her to nap, and I couldn't put her down or she'd wake up and I'd have to start all over again. All that to say, we lived...and she was finally happier after she hit about 4 months old. Hopefully Harper will snap out of it much more quickly! We love our little girl very much, but when everyone says the second baby is the complete opposite of the first one, we get very excited!!! :); 2/11/2009 8:34 PM
Kimberley said...: Hi there! I've never posted, but have been reading your blog for quite some time. Yes, I am a blog stalker (ha!). I wanted to make a suggestion for your sweet-crying baby. Believe it or not, I ran a hair dryer (on the cool setting) when nothing would console my newborn. Everyone thought I was crazy, but it worked!! As soon as I turned it on, he immediately stopped crying, and drifted off to sleep. I finally got tired of running the hair dryer every night, so I found a CD online that is just pure hair dryer noise. I bought it, put it in the CD player in the corner of his room, and would hit "repeat" so it would continue all night. It was a life saver!!

I googled the CD, and the company also makes vacuum cleaner noise, dishwasher noise, etc, basically any "white noise" which babies enjoy. Just try a hair dryer first and see what happens. Good things I hope! God Bless! Oh, and she has to be one of the most beautiful babies I've ever seen!!; 2/11/2009 8:34 PM
Anonymous said...: I had this majorly with my 2nd child. It turns out that he had such a big appetite that he wasn't ever getting completely satisfied w/ just my breast milk. Very reluctantly, I also started supplementing w/ formula(per pedi's advice) and I kid you not, I had a different baby overnight. It was hard for me to do it but definitely worth it. Jennifer; 2/11/2009 8:39 PM
tam7777 said...: My son cried like this too because he was not getting enough to eat. I did not breastfeed so what I did was put a little cereal in his milk and he quit the fussing. Some doctors don't like you giving your baby the cereal-- but they are not the ones staying up.
She may be spoiled and if she is that will cause you alot of trouble.
I had twins and I did not want ppl holding them all the time I was the one that was gonna have to deal with both of them when everyone else was gone. Let her play in her crib or a blanket on the floor. You will be alot happier if you can get her to do this.; 2/11/2009 8:40 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi - I have been reading your blog for a while now and am SO glad that Harper is home safe and sound. I know the past month has been really tough on you guys.

I just had my first baby (Eli) in September and the worst weeks for me were 3 and 4. He would NOT stop screaming! I didn't know what to do...Finally, I figured out with the help of our doctors and my girlfriends that I was missing his "sleep signals" and he was getting overly tired and then he would scream. So I started feeding and putting him right to sleep in a swaddle (THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER DONE!!). From then on (besides his growth spurt at 8 weeks and 13 weeks) he has been a dream. I just didn't realize that he needed to sleep so much...and if he didn't go right down when he started showing those first signs it was over. He was WAY too tired to fall asleep and would scream.

Hope this helps! Harper is GORGEOUS!! It only gets better...Eli will be 5 months on Friday and I am having the time of my life!

Danielle; 2/11/2009 8:40 PM
Nitzia said...: Hi Kelly, i have been following your story about Harper since she was born through some friends from OBU.... I have a 3 year old and a 2 month old and i have we both done "Baby Wise" and it WORKS!!! believe me it's hard at first because it's all about keeping your baby on schedule and since your girl is healthy now and big enought you can do the schedule... it's hard on us as moms to let them cry but know that not everytime they cry they need to be fed... i know how hard it is to function when you can't sleep and have a needy baby crying all the time.... the more you feed her every time she cries the worse it might get she will get use to that and you definetely do not want that to happen... i highly reccomend this book ... many people do not like it or but i can say that it works if you do it... it might take you about a week but you will see some results after that... i hope this helps! God bless you and you precious baby girl, nitzia; 2/11/2009 8:41 PM
Our Story said...: So glad to hear your little girl is doing well. As far as the crying, eating, holding thing we can relate. Our little guy ate, cried, ate, cried, ate cried, and got a little sleep in there. We tried everything...bouncy seats, swings, slings, even a hair dryer to warm up his bed that another mom suggested. We were desperate! My advise, pray, pray, pray. The good news is our little baby grew into a now toddler who has a big personality...he just cracks us up! It's probably the early signs that she is going to be a fun little girl. In the meantime, hang in there. This too will pass.; 2/11/2009 8:42 PM
Lilly, Reid, Matt, and Sara said...: My baby loved being held. Wear her in a sling or baby bjorn. I swear it is the only way to get things done and not go crazy. Also, my Lilly didn't like any of the stuff like swing, bouncy seat, or anything else until 3 or 4 months. It gets easier and more fun (even though it still is at this point). Showering will become regular again. I used to have to pump, shower, and eat in my husbands lunch hour!! I know what you are saying about the anxiety!! That was my biggest parenting shock.; 2/11/2009 8:42 PM
Karie said...: Hey Kelly, Things sound busy right now and they will be for a while. I remember when I brought my son home from the hospital to meet his 3 year old sister, my suitcase stayed packed in my dining room for 6 weeks. I couldn't find a minute to put anything away. The first 6 weeks are the hardest. It gets better and it is all worth it. Harper is a sweetie, love her bows and hats. They are so cute that I want to put some on my 5 year old. When my daughter was little she went through this horrible crying phase and you know what worked, the vacuum. We used it so much that we blew 2 of them up. At the time I didn't know you could buy the vacuum sound on CD. Karie; 2/11/2009 8:42 PM
Amanda said...: "The Happiest Baby on the Block" saved us! It has the 5 "S's" (or maybe it was 6 :) of calming a crying baby and I PROMISE it works. A friend gave it to us, but we didn't even think to pull it out and watch it until around week 3 when our daughter just wouldn't stop crying (except when she was nursing). There are some sounds on the dvd that sound like in utero sounds that would immediately calm our daughter down when she was really upset.

Hang in there and soak up every moment of Harper wanting to be held. Those moments are so fleeting. Oh, and I LOVE all the pics. She is such a precious little girl!; 2/11/2009 8:43 PM
Oonie said...: I am sure you have gotten this advice before but I will give it again--hang in there on the only eating and clinging baby! My first son was the exact same way. I remember nursing (and nursing and nursing and nursing) him the night of the Daylight Savings "fall back" and watching the clock on our DVR go from 1:59am...to 1am all over again and I felt like crying! I'd already DONE that hour, and here it was all over again!
Now he sleeps beautifully. And I'm so happy for you and Harper and your whole family that you have the chance to have these "normal" problems! She is beautiful and you are doing a great job with her. Hang in there...the growth spurt ends eventually!; 2/11/2009 8:43 PM
Elizabeth said...: Two things... I breastfed my son and he was a mess but gas drops helped ALOT. Also, my pediatrician suggested that I cut out all milk from my diet because sometimes babies are lactose sensative (I thought she was crazy!) but it worked. He was much more comfortable and more content. Pray your night tonight with more restful with your healthy little one... what a gift!!; 2/11/2009 8:48 PM
The Ham Family said...: Kelly, I know you have had lots of advice already - many of them contradict others. I have a new grandson born two days after Harper. He really loves the Miracle Blanket. Also we switched to another pacifier with a smaller nipple - I don't understand why the hospital pacifiers are so big. A mother's nipple is not near that long! Just keep on holding her and loving on her and she will outgrow the non-stop crying. I think she is precious in all the different bows and outfits but maybe they are bugging her - especially the bows and headbands. Try keeping her dress very simple - just plain onesies or sleepers - see if that helps. Keeping you guys in my prayers. GG; 2/11/2009 8:49 PM
Anonymous said...: All I can say is get a sling! I never thought I was that kind of mother that would carry her baby all day in a sling until I had that kind of baby - the one who eats often and screams the rest of the day. I finally got a sling at 6 weeks and started feeling the love again. My baby is 10 1/2 months old now - still high maintanance, but much more fun to be around. This will pass, I promise!!! My oldest is 8 now and I don't know where the time went.; 2/11/2009 8:50 PM
Anonymous said...: Hey Kelly. I was thinking abt you tonight when I was putting my daughter to bed. She was 9 lbs when she was born & FUSSY!! Cried all the time for weeks. I remember being sort of like "this is not how it's supposed to be". When I was pregnant, all I wanted was to hold her & love her etc but then when she was born all she did was cry. Nothing really helped. She just outgrew it in a few (loud) and long months. A year later my son was born & was happy as a clam. She will be just fine. Like I said in an earlier post do what you can to comfort her but make sure you take care of you too.
Here is my email if you need anything
melissa_britt@yahoo.com; 2/11/2009 8:51 PM
Team Davis said...: Yes! My now 7 month old was the same way! When he FINALLY got to sleep, he would wake up the SECOND I put him down. He was big too and wanted to nurse every 2 hours (at least.) When he was about 6 weeks old he finally really started to like the swing and would ONLY sleep there. We let him do that until it no longer worked at about 4 1/2 months. All I can say is just do WHATEVER works. Anything that lets you and her both rest is the right thing (even if she gets addicted to the swing like my son.) lol The only other advice I can give is that this too shall pass! I know is doesn't seem like it right now, but these sleepless nights (and days) will soon be memories that are almost hard to recall. Be encouraged that others, including me, have been there and we know your struggle...that part of you that is so thankful/greatful/blessed to have your healthy, beautiful child...but at the same time, you are SO TIRED!!! :) You are not alone.

P.S. I also used to lay in bed with pillows all around me and nurse my son, then let him just sleep on me with my boppy pillow curled around him. It was still a little hard for me to sleep that way but it was better than nothing. :) Also, I know it is SO hard to find time to pump, but if you can do that, you can get some help at other feedings which might allow you to get a few more hours of sleep. And don't feel bad if you feel the need to supplement with some formula so someone else can feed while you sleep. Guilt will get you no where and you won't love your precious daughter any less so at the end of the day the rule is...Whatever works! :); 2/11/2009 9:00 PM
Laura said...: Welcome to motherhood, Kelly! Harper is adorable!!; 2/11/2009 9:02 PM
Maridith said...: okay your daughter sounds EXACTLY like my daughter Lawson. I was about ready to go raw (nursing so much) and pull my hair out because of the no sleep and screaming. The BEST investment you can make is buy the "Happiest Baby on the Block" By Harvey Karp. It SAVED my life and my sanity. I would send it to you but I loaned it to a freind! I guess now you can say I gave it too her. You have some awesome friends!! Good luck! BTW- for not sleeping much you look great!!; 2/11/2009 9:04 PM
Stefanie said...: When my daughter was fussy in the beginning we would put her in her carseat. She LOVED her carseat - she actually slept in for the first four months. Our ped. said it was fine - she eventually moved into the cradle and sleeps just fine in her crib now. Try bringing her carseat and and see if she likes sleeping in that. Good luck!; 2/11/2009 9:07 PM
Rebekah said...: I stumbled upon your blog about 2 weeks ago and have been reading and praying since. It is amazing to see how quickly Harper recovered and came home. I am a NICU nurse and know what a miracle she is! I too am a new mom. My daughter is 10 weeks old and we actually just went through another growth spurt. I know how exhausting it is but hang in there. I also remember getting to 6 weeks and feeling like I finally had my head above water again! I found that if I could breastfeed laying down I could catch a quick nap as well. My daughter enjoys that cause she gets to snuggle up with me. And I fully believe that babies can't get spoiled so our baby slept with us quite a bit the first month (I know...not SIDS appropriate, BUT we got some sleep!!). Good luck and I'll continue praying for you and your sweet family!; 2/11/2009 9:08 PM
suzannah | the smitten word said...: kelly, congrats on bringing your little beauty HOME!

my advice is to get a baby sling ASAP. that way you can wear little harper close to your heart, and still have hands free to do other things.

slings can be miraculous at calming fussy babes--they love being snuggled in close and warm, and most tiny ones will go right to sleep.

i got mine here. good luck-she will sleep!; 2/11/2009 9:08 PM
The Garners said...: Oh my goodness what cute pictures! I hope she settles into a schedule for you soon so you can get a little bit of rest. It gets way easier...it just seems like there's no solution (at least we haven't found one yet) for those crazy first 6 weeks or so...then life settles down a little and they don't cry all the time!?!? Hang in there. I wish I had a magic cure to tell you about. It's probably too cold to go for walks, but I strolled Rhett approximately 2 million miles those first few months to get him to sleep--he'd fall asleep in the stroller every time. Sometimes I'd even stroll him in the empty car space in the garage with all the lights off...I'd just go by the light sensor for the door to make sure I didn't bump into the wall--ha! Then I'd park the stroller in the hallway by the garage and pray that he'd sleep a while! :) Whatever works for a little sanity!; 2/11/2009 9:09 PM
Jon and Melissa said...: I did a rountine eat/wake/sleep pattern all day and let my babes sleep at night as long as they let me. Maybe 5 hrs at night then feed the newborns every 2 1/2 hr then had them be awake then nap and then all over again. I highly rec. this. A good book is Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child: Marc Weissbluth. I followed Babywise. But Baby whisperer is similar.If you ever concerned about supply contact a lactation consultant. Gripe water works wonders for a upset tummy or gas.; 2/11/2009 9:10 PM
Anonymous said...: I am glad to hear that you are having "normal problems". So much better then a very sick baby. It seems like every mom goes through this phase with their baby.
Have you tried letting her cry it out? My first born cried a lot and we finally had to let her cry. It was hard as she would cry for a looong time, but we kept at it and there was a difference in just a couple of days. I glad to hear that you are tag teaming with Scott and trying to take a break when you can. Just remember that this to shall pass.
With much love and prayers,
Elyse; 2/11/2009 9:11 PM
Kandi West said...: You will probably never get around to reading this since I am like # 100000 to post today, but just in case...
I don't know how many of those special pacifiers you came home with, but if it was not several, order some more now. I don't think they sell them in stores. Or at least they didn't when Annie was a baby and I had to order them from a medical supply internet site. They gave her one when she was in the hospital with meningitis and she would never go back to the regular kind. You won't believe it now but those things disappear like crazy. When we moved last year, I found several behind furniture. You will need a dozen at least.; 2/11/2009 9:12 PM
Anonymous said...: So I just had to comment on these pictures! They are so cute!!! And I must admit that I love that shirt that she has on. And I must say.. she may be trying to tell you that she'd rather pledge E!! Ha. So cute!
I can't wait to see her in person. Maybe when I come home for the summer I will get to see her!! I am praying each and everyday for her. The E's are daily too! I update them at every meeting. ha!!; 2/11/2009 9:14 PM
Kacey said...: Kelly, I think that you are amazing for even managing to keep up with your blog (and pictures, too!) with a newborn - especially a fussy sleeper. You are one amazing woman!

I'm sure you've already had a TON of advice, but I'll share my few bits anyway, coming from experience with my own difficult sleepers:

Sometimes a different blanket/swaddler makes a difference. Apparently they're not all the same!

Lullaby CDs and sound/white noise machines made all the difference with my boys. Both of mine (14 mos and 3) still use theirs every night/nap.

Books (in case you find some free time!) - Karp's "Happiest Baby on the Block" has some great suggestions, as does "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child".

Good luck! So glad Harper is doing well.; 2/11/2009 9:14 PM
Missy said...: Try putting her in her carseat on top of the dryer while you run the dryer. It was the only thing that worked for my friend's daughter. That and she had to put a blanket over her carseat so she wouldn't be over stimulated. My son is two months old and he still sleeps in his carseat. Whatever works, girl!; 2/11/2009 9:15 PM
Some Call Me Momma said...: Kelly,

NURSE NURSE NURSE!!!

If Miss Harper wants to eat, feed her. You won't be sorry ... your milk supply will be WONDERFUL.

My daughter was just like that. She screamed in the car, she screamed in her bouncy, she screamed in her swing.

As a single mother at the time, i nursed her constantly (13 months total!), held her all the time, and prayed for us to just make it thru the day.

She just turned 5. While I'm thankful those horrible days of no sleep and fussy-buns are over ... I tell you...

Cherish them.

because that fussy baby that wants to be held.

Will hold you when you're having a bad day and she knows you're sad.

Some people say not to spoil them. I say there will be a day when she won't want to be held anymore.

Hang in there. Each day gets better.

Ginny; 2/11/2009 9:16 PM
Suzie said...: Hi there! You don't know me but I have been following since Harper's birth...well...right after her birth. You an your gusband are such amazing people. And I just wanted to say that Harper is so beautiful...her outfits are soooo adorable. I am the owner of Zeebabee Designs www.zeebabee.com and I would love to send Harper a Burp See. I'm not sure where to sen it... you can send me an email at sgorski[at]zeebabee[dot]com to provide me with an address. I wish you all the health and happiness for Harper and your family. God Bless you!!; 2/11/2009 9:16 PM
Ryan and Erin Nichols said...: I don't know how you have time for all of these, but if you do, know that the unhappy baby is just a phase. My baby was similar, and sometimes we had to try the swing,sling,bouncy seat or whatever many times before she got used to one. She hated the swing at first but after trying it many times it's now her favorite thing, but she never did love the bouncy seat. Also for whatever reason she loved the sound of the exhaust fan in the bathroom so we spent a lot of time in there. Anything with white noise she liked so maybe try that!; 2/11/2009 9:16 PM
Anonymous said...: My little one cried and cried if not being held or nursed. I tried to put myself in her place - how would I feel if I was a tiny helpless little thing who only felt safety, comfort, and peace in my mommy or daddy's arms? That's when I decided to go the Dr. Sears route, and started baby-wearing. A sling, a baby bjyorn - any of those will help you. As will the Attachment Parenting book by Dr. William Sears and the book called The No-Cry Sleep Solution: Gentle Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night by Elizabeth Pantley and William Sears. Enjoy your precious little one - she loves and needs you! : ); 2/11/2009 9:18 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly,
I have been following your sweet blog since little Harper was born and MckMamma asked that we all pray for her. I am a Labor & Delivery and Pediatric Nurse in NC. I had my first "little one" in June and that sweet, quiet, peaceful baby that I delivered well... we must have switched him on the way out the door because... girlll let me tell you... Jackson (our son) cried for 6 months straight. He had the colic and reflux and who knows what else. I totally thought I had this baby thing on auto pilot, because after all, I was a baby nurse for heaven's sake. You either feed em, change em, or kiss em... oh ho no sister. My child would just cry... PERIOD. Of course you are so grateful that sweet Harper is well and has a set of lungs to cry with, but that does not make her crying any less intense. I was so grateful for Jackson too. He was the child I asked God for... he was the sweet gift God had given to me. However, it was still intense. And a crying baby... especially one that you cannot seem to console and one that has been sick, makes you doubt your ability to do anything as a mother. You ask yourself, maybe he senses my anxiety, maybe it's the milk I drank for breakfast, maybe my milk is not enough or too much, maybe it was the new Vitamin E and Aloe toilet paper I bought (ok TMI), but you get what I'm saying. You can really drive yourself CRAZY! But, Kelly... remember that most things come in phases. At least that is what I have learned with Jackson. It will get better. I did not believe anyone when they told me that... but I promise it will. The best thing I ever did for Jackson was put him on a schedule. I knew what to predict from him and he knew what to predict from me. I loosely followed Babywise ( a book that is suppose to give your infant the gift of sleep). Jackson was and still can be a high maintenance baby. You are right though... she is probably going through a growth spurt. Just remember you are doing a wonderful job. God brought you this far! Remember to seek Him with every little thing... even if you are asking Him for a 5 minute "momma needs a time out" so you can collect yourself.
Kelly; 2/11/2009 9:22 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly,
I somehow stumbled across your blog one night. I enjoy checking in on adorable Harper!

My little boy will be one on Friday. He loved to be held and did not want me to put him down. I am not really sure that I brushed my teeth or put on deodorant every day because I was so crazy with having a newborn in my arms :)It was frustrating at the time (sometimes it was a good excuse if I did not clean or cook ha!), but now he does not want me to hold him, all he wants to do is play. I did like you, put him in the swing, bouncy seat, etc and he would cry so I would pick him up real fast... he got my number right away, but I learned after awhile if I would leave him in he would actually enjoy being there. As long as you know that Harper has a clean diaper and a full belly, it is okay to let her cry (it will be harder on you Mommy than it will on her). I also would sleep on the recliner while holding Ethan on my chest,(I found it more comfortable than lots of pillows in the bed)that way I could get some sleep. It is a very hard habit to break but worth it when you are very tired.

Enjoy your precious gift from GOD! Lots of luck to you! Thank you for sharing your amazing story and faith in GOD!
Michelle; 2/11/2009 9:25 PM
Jacquie said...: I liked "Kari from TX's" advice... as you know, my babies are nearly 22 and 20 now and those first few months are HARD!! But, I'd go back to that time in my life in a second. When you look back, you'll remember how tough it was, but you'll also treasure every moment.

You've just hit a rough patch... it'll get better when y'all figure each other out. I'm just so glad you're home!; 2/11/2009 9:27 PM
McFarland Family said...: Hi there,
Your Friend from Texas:) I wanted to let you know that I feel your pain! My baby was in the NICU for 9 days..kinda the same issues but on a smaller scale came home and did the same thing. Never slept and ate ALL the time. I cried for three days thinking I was horrible mother for wanting to sleep and give him formula They say it is normal for NICU babies to do this. The sad news is eveyone told me that he would be happy and good to go at 3 months. I thought I was going to die..3 months I still have another 21/2 months of this. And sure enough the day he turned 3 months..HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY baby:) The car worked great for Ryan. We were NEVER home and my gas bill was through the roof...but hey everyone was happy:); 2/11/2009 9:28 PM
The Hibbard Family said...: I know you've had a TON of comments, but I wanted to encourage you. I've had a child who seemed to constantly be starving or screaming and only slept about six hours (non-consecutive) in any given 24. It's not fun, but it is survivable. I want to share one thing with you - it is okay to put her down in her room, close the door, and walk away, even if for only five minutes. You might feel cruel for doing it, but it's not going to hurt her (sometimes she's going to cry whether you do it or not, so the distance from the crying will help), and it will help you. And it's okay. She'll still love you, I promise! Mine precious gift from God is now five and not the least bit scarred! :-) Meanwhile, from a mom who's been there, I'm praying for you!; 2/11/2009 9:31 PM
Kelly @ Life As A Martin said...: HALO Sleepsack!!! Again, HALO Sleepsack!!! It's a wearable blanket. We received this unexpected gift in the mail from my cousin and put my youngest daughther in it just to see how cute she looked and she slept through the night at seven weeks.W Why oh why not sooner? :) I had never heard of this product before but we now affectionately refer to it as our "Miracle Blanket". I hope it works sleep miracles for you as well. Mine came from Target but HALO has a website as well.
Harper is just beautiful and I praise God that she is doing so wonderfully.
May God Bless You & Your Family -
Kelly Martin
mattkellymartin@gmail.com; 2/11/2009 9:31 PM
Anonymous said...: Miss Harper is just too sweet for words!

My son was the same way. He didn't sleep more than 20 minutes at a time during the day, and nursed constantly. He had reflux, though, and it tooks months of trying different meds to calm it. Do get a sling! Wearing her will keep her happy, and let you do things you need to do. That was my life saver! That and co-sleeping, and lots of nursing. ;)

Hang in there!; 2/11/2009 9:31 PM
Keely said...: Hey Kelly,
Girl, I feel your tiredness and I can so relate. I have mentioned before that I have a 14 month old baby girl,and during that infant stage we went through the same thing. She just wasn't a good sleeper- her naps would be 30 min if I was lucky. It was so draining and I would see all these babies sleeping and people would say babies just sleep when they are that age and I would think, no not mine! Unfortunately, I don't have any answers, I just want to give you some encouragement to hold on, it won't last forever. It sometimes feels like it will, but it won't- but those first 3 months are definately the most tiring. And it is kind of this conflicting feeling b/c on one hand you are so thankful, but the tiredness just sometimes takes over. It's so great that you have such a good husband to help you- I did too and it makes all the difference. Just tell yourself in those sleepless, exhausting, pumping, feeding, and screaming moments- this too shall pass. You know that new song by Darius Rucker-"it won't be like this for long".. it's true so just hold on. I am sorry I don't mean to sound like I am just trying to give you all this advice or anything, I just can honestly relate and I want to encourage you anyway that I can.Good luck!!; 2/11/2009 9:33 PM
Anonymous said...: Have you heard of the Happiest Baby on the Block video? It's A-MAZING! (I did not read all 351 comments before mine to see if someone else already mentioned this). The guy shows how to calm your baby using the 5 s's... swing, suck, swaddle, shush and side. If you can borrow it or buy it I HIGHLY recommends it. It really works for even the fussiest baby! I'm happy to hear Harper is doing so well and of course she is as cute as can be! Try to nap when she does! Even if it's only 15 minutes! :O) And just keep in mind that in a very short time she'll be walking and talking and I PROMISE you WILL miss these sleepless nights!; 2/11/2009 9:36 PM
KK said...: I too remember how consumed I was with my first child. There were days when I would wonder if I even brushed my teeth! The days were long and I would wonder what in the world I got myself into.

Hang in there, things will get better and you will be amazed at the routine you will develop and before long you will feel more in control of your life again.; 2/11/2009 9:37 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly,
My first born a boy was like that. He was high maintenance and wanted to be held all the time by ONLY me. Well mostly!
What worked for him was me holding him out (not like a baby) and bouncing him. That could be in the chair or standing but it had to be bouncing.
Also...taking him outside WORKED wonders. Change of scenery whatever it may be helps!
Last but not least...some babies are just sensitive to their environments. He still is sensitive in ways...its their temperment sometimes.
It does get better though I promise!!!!! By 4 months he was past all that and was on to bigger and better things!
Nurse her when you can...that helps to sooth too. I demand fed both of mine at that age!
Bless you!
Summer; 2/11/2009 9:41 PM
Mary said...: Kelly- My sweet baby girl was alot like Harper! We just couldn't get her to be content. I pulled lots of ideas from several books but my favorite was Happiest Baby on the Block. The tight swaddle, swaying her, shushing, side lying (turning her on her side while holding her), and sucking on a pacifier work like a charm. I even bought a white noise cd and set it on repeat whiched seemed to soothe her. Love the Miracle Blanket for swaddling too.
Baby girl is now 3 and half and sleeps like a champ! Every bit as good as her big brother who loved to sleep from the beginning.

I am still praising God that Harper is home with you and doing so well. God bless!; 2/11/2009 9:41 PM
Fran said...: I've had 3 babies and all 3 loved to be held. And, you know what? I'd give anything to go back in time and hug them and hold them like that. Don't worry, just do what is good for y'all. I promise she'll be ok and so will you. Listen to that momma instinct. Its usually always right.

Love ya girl. Praying always,
Fran; 2/11/2009 9:42 PM
Kylie said...: My first born (my son) was a very high maintenance newborn :) He was only happy in my arms or nursing. He took every nap laying on me and took turns on his daddy and me at night. I never thought I would be a co-sleeper, but it worked for us in those early months! My only advice is that now he is 3 years old and sleeps all night long in his own big boy bed and I actually miss the times of holding and rocking and nursing. The time will pass so quickly but the lifelong bond you will share will be great. At the time I thought I would go crazy :) but now I wish I had cherished those days of no shower or "me time" just to hold my tiny baby more! Take breaks here and there when your husband can help, to keep your sanity :) of course! A good friend from church gave me the best advice in my early days of motherhood when she told me about her twins being babies and how all she did was nurse them all day and I asked her how she did that without going crazy and she smiled and said, "I didn't have anything better to do!"; 2/11/2009 9:47 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly,
I'm so pleased Harper is home at last praise God!

I wouldn't normally give advice, but I to have one exception...when a new Mom asks for it. I am no expert, but I am a mother of 4 and a grandmother of 1. I wish someone had told me what I about to tell you, and what I found out the hard way.

Usually a baby will cry and be unsettled if they are not getting enough to eat. Really it's that simple. Whilst I would highly recomment nursing, sometimes bub needs more than we can provide. Can I suggest that feeding her yourself, and then offer her some folmular as well. A baby with a nice full tummy, should sleep soundly for at least 4 hours or more. My mother-in-law suggested doing that when my first baby was so unsettled and I was getting more and more tired. If only someone had told me sooner. As soon as I also offered a bottle on top of a normal feed, baby settled into a really good happy routine.

My daughter had the exact same thing happen when my grandson arrived. She did as I suggested and he slept very soundly and was a relaxed contented baby instead of a fussy uptight baby.

Give it a try sweetie. Some people have plenty of milk, some just don't, so to offer bub that little bit extra means she will get the best of both.

Praying Harper will soon settle well so that her mommy can sleep too. If you can get enough sleep, you can cope with anything.

May the Lord bless Harper all the days of her life. You are both wonderful parents, she is so blessed.

Warm hugs.; 2/11/2009 9:47 PM
"Cookie" said...: Hold you baby as much as she wants to be held.

I think I held my little boy for almost 6 weeks!! (The whole time I was home on maturity leave) It would just be the two of us during the day. My mom would call and ask what we were doing. "Are you holding him?" My response, "I sure am! He's my baby and I'm enjoying the hell out of him.!!"

He's 18 months now and the GO! I treasure those days. I was dog tired but wouldn't trade them for anything.; 2/11/2009 9:48 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly, I found your blog through "bring the rain blog". Your daughter is beautiful! I have been praying for you and Harper. So happy to see her so healthy! I would suggest reading the Babywise books. Helped me alot with my daughter. Hope that helps!; 2/11/2009 9:49 PM
Anonymous said...: I think the 3rd week was the hardest. They really start waking up and figuring out that things are a little tougher out here.

I recommend gripe water. It will soothe a little tummy.

I recommend The Happiest Baby on the Block. And Swaddle Me Designs swaddling blankets. They were the best.; 2/11/2009 9:50 PM
Anonymous said...: Welcome to Mommy world,hehe. All three of my little ones did not sleep well. I missed so much church and a social life in those first few months. Dont worry those days will pass and then you will long for them again, smile. Just take one hour at a time and take that 30 minutes. You will feel much better and ba a happier mommy. Hugs your way!; 2/11/2009 9:50 PM
Kim H. said...: I recommend a baby sling then you can hold her but still do things with your hands. It's really hard to get used to at first, but with some practice, it's the best investment I ever made. Dr. Sears is the genius doctor who introduced the baby sling to me almost 15 years ago with my first baby. Love his attachment parenting theory.; 2/11/2009 9:52 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly,
I just love all the pictures and updates! Beautiful to see, after what you went through. My two boys would have been extremely fussy, except a friend gave me the best gift I ever received, the book "Babywise." It was absolutely a lifesaver, and is the difference between a very fussy baby and a peaceful one that sleeps well. It teaches you how to get your baby to sleep through the night by 7 or 8 weeks old, and it works. It is a popular book and in almost any book store. I've had it work with my own kids and seen friends have it work (and friends who didn't want to try it and nearly had a newborn baby stress them into a divorce). Either way, just thought I'd suggest it. I'm so glad Harper is doing so well. Sincerely, Anna; 2/11/2009 9:52 PM
Jen said...: Congratulations on your sweet girl. I've been praying for you.

I didn't read through the comments - but have you ever heard of The Happiest Baby on the Block. There's a book and a dvd. Our library had both. May be worth checking it out. He has a system of combining the 5 S's (Swaddle, Side, Shh, Suck, and something else ;-)) that calms irritable babies.; 2/11/2009 9:54 PM
Anonymous said...: I would try when it's time to sleep, make sure it's calm in the room. Low lights, soft or low music or tv. Calm and quiet.
When she was in the hospital were they suplimenting with formula? Is it all possible she isn't getting enough from you? Also, I went and got my youngest a little box thingy that vibrated. It was fairly portable, I was able to hook it on her crib, bassinet. And the vibration is what she needed for soothing.
Something like this.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Playskool-Gentle-Vibes-Crib-Vibrator-Soother-Gas-Relief_W0QQitemZ250370557117QQcmdZViewItemQQptZBaby_Gear?hash=item250370557117&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50
I hope the link works. If not I got it off of ebay and it's made by playskool.
Also. I haven't read all of the repies. If you can get her to sleep and if she will sleep with you, go for it. At this point it's may the best man win. And if you guys sleep then you have accomplished something. I'm all about co-sleeping if that's what it takes.
Have you tried having her sleep on her tummy? On her side?
I hope at least one of my ideas will help you guys out a little bit.; 2/11/2009 9:54 PM
Twice as Nice said...: I know sometimes when you are nursing you have to watch what you eat. Now I could eat anything and it didn't bother Logan. Perhaps she has a bellyache from something your eating?; 2/11/2009 9:55 PM
Valerie said...: Hi Kelly. I stumbled across your blog from another site, but have been touched by your stories about your struggle with infertility and then delivering your "gift" under such stressful circumstances. I have walked in your shoes and can definitely related! After 5 years of infertility and losses, we conceived our precious daughter thru in vitro. We were then blessed 18 months later with a bonus baby...doctors can't really explain it, but our family can...Heavenly Father!

Anyway...I know you've read a ton of advice and I don't have too much different to add. Mary Catherine was such an easy going toddler and still is as a preschooler, but as a newborn...such a different story! Mary had a couple of complications (2 ventricular septal defects that closed on their own, thank GOD! and bilateral hip dysplasia). I'm not sure if it was these 2 factors or that she was 9 days early and dropped to 5lbs 8oz, but she was ALWAYS hungry (and I hear it's worse with BIG babies) :) !!! I was instructed to nurse FIRST and then supplement with 1-2 oz of formula (only allowing her to take what she needed, not forcing her to finish). After she began to put weight back on I did drop the formula (not b/c I'm opposed), but b/c I didn't want to diminish my milk supply. The more they eat the more milk you produce. I read a post by another reader who had a "big girl" and I know she recommended the same thing!

Also, Mary was in a Pavlik harness for 24/7 the first 7-weeks of life to help her ball and socket hip joints develop. Perhaps that is why she hated the swing, bouncer seat, pack-n-play, etc. She just seemed to want to be held all of the time. I've read lit on "spoiling" babies and putting them on schedules etc. but I truly believe that you cannot "spoil" a baby before 6 months of age. They are totally dependent on you and some are just more high maitenance than others.

Finally, I did find a sweet "heart beat" bear that I placed in the corner of her crib/bassinett and that really soothed her. May not work, but worth a try!

Best wishes and LOVE every minute of this journey. She'll be 4 before you know it!; 2/11/2009 9:56 PM
Anonymous said...: Ok, and one more idea. Make sure she isn't too warm. Sometimes if they are over bundled they can't get comfortable. Kinda go by if you are warm or comfortable that is what she is. Not alot of fleecy stuff.; 2/11/2009 9:57 PM
Anonymous said...: i am still praying for you and your family. you have received alot of advice and i hope it works.; 2/11/2009 10:00 PM
julie & joe said...: Swaddling blankets worked well and lying down with the baby on your chest. Mine also hated the swing, bouncy chair...everything....but he liked the vibrator in the bassinet.; 2/11/2009 10:00 PM
becca said...: I have had 2 babies who only wanted to be held. That's just the way Isaac was, there was NO changing him, so I gave in and held him and nursed him all the time (I made me a sling b/c I did have a 19 month old and a not yet three year old to contend with as well... he LIVED in that sling). He was happy, and therefore, so was I.
I think I actually caused Elijah to be this way. He is very easy going, but I was so happy to have a baby to hold again that that's exactly what I was going to do! And since the older three didn't need me as much as when they were little, I was taking my time with him... and cherishing every second as the last baby.
So, my advice to you is to do the same :) Cherish each second. I know it is easy to say that and much harder to do when you are in the moment, but as others have said, don't worry about all the 'stuff.' Don't worry about your house, it doesn't have feelings. Do what you can, but really, you won't remember how messy your house was, you'll remember the precious time you spent with her.; 2/11/2009 10:03 PM
Cheerful Homemaker said...: Cute photos!; 2/11/2009 10:04 PM
Katie Kordsmeier said...: Oh I remember those days! I have three kids, ages 3, 2, & 1. My first and third babies were fussy. We stood and bounced and bounced and bounced until our backs were killing us and our legs had muscles like an athlete. They would get calm so we would try to sit down, and they would start screaming again. I don't know how they knew when we were trying to sit down. Anyway, that's all that worked for us. Oh and Dr. Brown's bottles and Neutramagin formula. They wouldn't nurse. =(

Good luck! I think after the first 3 months it gets so much easier! That's when they seem like they start getting comfortable in their own skin. Hang in there!; 2/11/2009 10:09 PM
amy said...: Hi, Kelly~
Just wanted to add my 2 cents...newborns are just hard work! :) I really liked The Baby Whisperer by Tracey Hogg. She believed that babies under 3 months of age should be on a 3 hour "schedule." 1 hour to eat, 1 hour of "activity", and 1 hour of sleep. This repeats all day...Harper is probably trying to increase your milk supply...babies get quite unruly when trying to do that...by the time you figure it out...it is over! I say keep using your baby bjorn or your sling, bounce her, & use the pacifier...life does get easier...after about 6-8 weeks! :) Also, Harper can "smell" your milk even if you are not in the same room with her...she knows where her food comes from...you will always be #1 in her book!; 2/11/2009 10:11 PM
Anonymous said...: She's been through an awful lot in her life already, so she may just be finding her "niche". My daughter (now 21) was the best baby, we just bathed her every morning and put her in a little seat in the playpen (to get used to the idea of being in the playpen, TOTALLY worth it when they can crawl) but my son, he was awful. I ended up supplementing the breast milk with formula to satisfy him because I felt like a cow with a hanging bag and my breasts were so sore I cried while they bled. Good luck!; 2/11/2009 10:14 PM
Jessica said...: Those few weeks are SO hard! Sleep when you can, let the house go and remember...you will sleep again. It may not be anytime soon, but it will happen. I try to remind myself these things. My 13 month old still does not sleep thru the night and we've got number 3 coming in July. I'm thinking I might get some sleep in 2011. Maybe!

Hang in there!; 2/11/2009 10:24 PM
MindyMac said...: My neices were in the NICU for 5 weeks, and I think it's a big transition to go from the constant lights and noise to a home environment. A sound machine might help with that. As for eating, my son was big too when he was born, and his demand for food went up faster than my milk supply could catch up! I tried to nurse on a 2 1/2-3 hour schedule in the early days, but if he was truly hungry earlier than that consistently, then I'd give him a little bottle after his next feeding. (La Leche is cursing me for saying that right now! But my supply always caught up and he did just fine!) I think bigger babies present a bigger challenge in the eating department! Personally, I always had good luck making through those growing spells by topping off baby with a little formula or pumped breastmilk. Sounds like she could have a little reflux too. I feel for you! My son is 6 months now, so I am fresh out of that newborn stage! Good luck! She is a beauty! So happy to see her home after praying so much for her!; 2/11/2009 10:24 PM
Lauren said...: Oh my goodness! I remember this so well with Emma Kate. I remember thinking WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY BABY?!?! (Drew was the easiest baby EVER) Anyway, after trying EVERYTHING... I went to Walgreens and bought Gripe Water. It was almost instantaneous... And she was a different baby! I don't know if it would work for sweet Harper; but it's worth a shot! Like my mom always told me, "It seems like forever when you're in it; but it will pass... FAST." Praying for sleep for all 3 of y'all! I remember Seth telling me (after we had had Drew) that he wished he had taken all the naps his mom tried to get him to take as a kid... Ha!; 2/11/2009 10:27 PM
msw0302 said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; 2/11/2009 10:29 PM
Trudy said...: Hi Kelly. I have no real advice but offer sympathy. Our first would not sleep either. We went through classes before and they "promised" the baby would be sleeping most of the time. Not our little blessing. In time she did establish a routine. I had trouble nursing at first too. Our second however, was a sleeper!!! So much that I got worried she slept so much but she was just one of those babies they had "promised."

I think one of the things that helped was giving one bottle of formula (which stayed in her system longer) right before bedtime which made her sleep longer. My husband would get up and change her for the first wake-up then I would nurse in bed. It was hardest for me to get up that first time.

One other trick that helps get them to recognize night is sleeping time is to give them a warm bath just before bedtime.

Good luck and I feel for you!!!; 2/11/2009 10:33 PM
Anna Marie said...: My nephew was in the hospital for a week after being born due to lung complications. He was poked on so much and didn't get held much because of tubes and so forth. After coming home he was EXTREMELY needy and only wanted to be held and nursed. I honestly believe it is because he missed that in the beginning and he can't get enough of it.

Have you tried a baby carrier? At least she can be against you and you can do things around the house. Except for that shower :o)

I so wish that I lived closer to you. My toddler and I could come over to watch and play with Harper while you take a shower and have some "ME" time.

God bless you, Kelly!; 2/11/2009 10:41 PM
Jenna said...: I have absolutely no advice, but I WOULD like to present you with this big HUG. :-)

You are doing awesome my friend, and along with that cyber embrace, I would also like to extend a promise to pray specifically for some good REST for the darling babe (and the momma and daddy) effective immediately. :-); 2/11/2009 10:43 PM
Rachel said...: Hey Kelly.....I just wanted to write you and let you know that I was where you were at almost 2 years ago . Ianna was very much like Harper hated everything I did. I tried it all when she was about 2 months she started to like her bouncer. The only time I could keep her calm is when I would take a nap I would sleep with her on my chest it also provided her with some tummy time cause she hated that too ( I think they all do!)I don't know I think the warmth of her body against mine help she wasn't so fussy then. Also I would go our and walk her in the stroller so ... but I know you can't leave the house so thats our for you. Another thing is Ianna was less fussy when her PaPa held her something about the difference in the way men hold the baby so that may help her when Scott or her grandpa gets to visit her, let them holder her a lot.I also read that they like to lay on daddy's chest and listen to there heartbeats cause they are stronger then women's and that is a good way for the father to bond with the baby. There is also a store on line called one step ahead they have lots of neat stuff for babies I saw where they had this blanket that vibrated it helped with fussy and colic babies it seemed to have good reviews so maybe that would work . I don't know I saw it after Ianna was passed that stage. If I think of anything else I will let you know hope this helps a little.. It will get better , but I know that is little consolation when you are working on 2 hours of sleep. If you need to talk I don't know how great my advice would be , and I am sure you have tons of friends with babies but if you just need different advice you mom has my moms number just call I am pretty much a stay at home mom except for when I am in class..so I am around a lot.
Good Luck and I hope you get some good sleep!!; 2/11/2009 10:50 PM
Anonymous said...: Kelly,

Having 4 kids under 4 I have the best solution.. And it's work for all 4 especially with one crabby twin.. Get a silk blanket, real silk, nothing from Walmart.. We bought blankets from Little Giraffe, and put the silk part by her face - on her cheek, it's suppose to sooth them. Did you know that inside your uterus, it feels like silk.. Baby's love this.. I tell all my patients to do this with there newborns. Also, they sell soothing machines, it looks like a teddy bear, but plays soothing music, my twins almost 5 still have to listen to it every night.. Good Luck, and your doing a wonderful job..

Nicole; 2/11/2009 10:55 PM
Kelly Magee said...: i'm certain she wants to be a tri chi.; 2/11/2009 10:55 PM
Brittany said...: Okay Kelly,
Here's what I think! Harper spent the first 3 weeks (pretty much) without you and Scott (her comfort)...I DEFINITELY don't want that to hit you the wrong way. So now that she has that...she longs for it. You guys are her safety and who would want to leave that? So just give it a little longer, and I promise she will get better! ;) And she IS growing that's why she is nursing so much! She is also building up your milk supply...So it is normal to eat all of the time...she will even out again!
Oh, and EVERYTHING is forgivable right after you have a baby! Is the tea room you are talking about, The Crumpet Tea Room? I LOVED to eat there in Bentonville! And they afre famous for their orange rolls!
I hope this helps! Sweet girl!; 2/11/2009 10:55 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Kelly,

I'm a PK too. I can so relate to so many things in your blog. I have a miracle baby too. She is now 19 months old. The first 3 weeks we brought her home, she was miserable. I was becoming miserable and felt so bad b/c I had prayed for this baby for many years. Finally, at her check-up, the dr decided she just wasn't getting enough to eat from me. So, I made the difficult decision to formula feed. That very night, she slept for over 7 hours straight. It was like her tummy finally got full. I'm not saying this is what you need to do, but just to let you know, that many people can relate. Hang in there. You'll get her on a schedule by 6 weeks!; 2/11/2009 10:59 PM
Stephanie @ dirtandlace.com said...: Adorable pictures, as always!

Sorry I don't have time to read through the comments to see if anyone else has said this, but MYLICON DROPS saved my sanity with my younger daughter!!! She was so fussy between feedings, and when we started giving her Mylicon before she ate, it cut down the crying tremendously.; 2/11/2009 11:01 PM
Jen said...: Yeah, I'm comment 385... how can you ever read all of this!?!?!?!
I have been reading your blog daily and praying for you. I am most likely moving to Fayetteville Arkansas in a few months, after my entire life in AZ, I hope we can be friends!!

I have the baby you are describing, he is 2 now... he only slept on my, mostly attached to a boob for 18 months. He wanted to be held all the time. He was also a NICU baby and I believe that is the cause here. These little guys spent their first days or weeks without that human contact, and now they REALLY need it! Zander is a sweetheart, and I prayed to god that if he lived I would let him cry all the time, just let me hear him cry! Boy did god take me up on that one! I don't have a whole lot of advice other than I got very good at one handing everything, and the easiest hold was to hold him on his tummy, with his but in my hand and his body going up my arm, then snuggled against my body. Against all my previous thoughts I usually allowed him to sleep with us, it was the only way we slept. I found that we all slept well if I was on my back with him on his tummy on my chest, and my hand on him at all times.
I know you love Harper, and who wouldn't.... she is a doll. I also know the frustration, and the feeling of "why can't I make my baby happy" I feel for you sweetie! Write me back, I would love to be a friend, and hope to meet you guys when we move out there... I will even babysit, I have been there, done that, so no prob bob! Plus now that my last baby is 2 I can hold a baby for hours and love it!
One last thing, thank goodness she will take a bottle. Zander would not take one ever, and I worked. I actually had to come home every 2 hours to feed him or he would go for an 8 hour day without eating, just crying.

I don't know you, but I love your family... I hope to hear from you!; 2/11/2009 11:04 PM
Melis.sa said...: when my daughter was born she was a little like that too. I started sleeping better when I brought her into bed with me so I could nurse her to sleep. If that didn't work she was a pacifier baby. Did you try the 5 s's? i don't remember what they were...

Glad your baby girl is at home with you. I'll pray for your friends baby too.; 2/11/2009 11:10 PM
Sallye said...: Take the carseat place it on the dryer, and turn the dryer on with the lights out for about 20 minutes. simulates riding in a car, plus you have to understand that she is use to noise and not quiet. Turn a radio or CD on for her when she is sleeping.; 2/11/2009 11:23 PM
Taryn said...: Ok, I'm amazed at how many comments you get! Wow! I didn't have time to read them all, so I might be repeating. First, she is beautiful! Second, you are doing a GREAT job! I remember needing some encouragement during the time you are going through. (I'm a new mom too...he's 7 months old now) Just know that God only gives us as much as He knows we can handle. Next, get the book "The Happiest Baby on the Block". I've read MANY, MANY books, and this was my favorite for those frustrations and challenges early on. My little guy Austin loved the Miracle blanket, wrapped tight, then we added the sleep sheep (2nd button down for our guy) and we would also sometimes put him in a swing after all of that. We even had to put him in his infant car seat, swaddled, with the sleep sheep on in order to get him to sleep. I guess he liked the close feeling...like being in the womb. Oh, and the Colic tablets by Hyland's really helped too. Finally, we had to get Dr. Brown's bottles. I know you are breast feeding, and so did I, but it was so nice to pump every now and then and be able to take a break while my sweet husband fed him from the bottle. Hang in there! My little guy was tricky at first, but once I got the hang of things, everything got SO much better. Now, he is the happiest baby! Just like everyone told me...."it DOES get easier!". Take care of yourself and God bless! I'm so happy for you!
Taryn; 2/11/2009 11:27 PM
Anonymous said...: I know what you mean about how sad it is right now with things happening. I hate turning on the news now. My baby girl is 6 mths now and the first two mths all my baby wanted was to be held all the time so I came across The soothing motions glider by fisher price that was literally my BEST FRIEND for the first two mths I was able to clean a little and it would keep her calm. Also have you tried a sling maybe that would work to keep her close to you. Goodluck and glad she is healthy.I Prayed for you the whole time she was in the hospital; 2/11/2009 11:29 PM
Taryn said...: Oh! I forgot to add...after all of that, Austin finally slept through the night at 8 weeks, and has been ever since! Everyone tells us we are very blessed on that one. Take care!; 2/11/2009 11:34 PM
The Stain Family said...: When my not so little 9 pounder couldn't be calmed, my husband would place him in the infant carrier/car seat and swing him. I should have mentioned this method is not for those with weak arm muscles! :) I was also a HUGE fan of the "Kiddopotamus" swaddle blanket (available at Babies 'R Us or online only at Target and others...only $10!!). It's a "mommy must have!" and one of my fave baby products to give. Love and prayers.; 2/11/2009 11:37 PM
The Beauty Bargainista said...: Hey Kelly...SIMPLE ANSWER....the DRYER!

My daughter was really colicy when we brought her home and never slept, always cried. So my doctor reccomended strapping her in her car seat and standing with her while I ran the clothes dryer. The vibrations sooth babies really well. Atleast, it did for us! :)
You just might be supprised if you try it!! Good luck sweetie! I am praying for her to not be so fussy for you and daddy!; 2/11/2009 11:38 PM
Sheena said...: The fisher price soothing motions glider was a life save for us when my daugter was little. It moves back and forth and side to side plays light music it was the best baby item we ever purchased!; 2/11/2009 11:55 PM
Anonymous said...: With almost 400 comments I don't know where you will ever find the time to read them! But here is what my husband, who has been a pediatrician for 27 years, always recommends with great success: get the DVD called The Happiest Baby On The Block by Harvey Karp, MD. The book is also helpful, but the DVD really shows you the right techniques of calming your baby. We got them both years ago together off Amazon.com and lend them out to new parents. I hope you will give it a try. I noticed you had another recommendation of this DVD/Book from Susan.
I am a first time grandmama of a 9 month old grandson from my daughter and now am awaiting the arrival of boy/girl twins from my daughter-in-law anyday! She is only 32 weeks and on bedrest.
I have been blessed by reading how God has blessed your family!; 2/11/2009 11:59 PM
Anonymous said...: Know that I'm here praying hard!
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Prayer Bears
My email address; 2/12/2009 12:00 AM
Katy said...: There is alot going on in this world right now and so many people to pray for as well. You are right on that for sure.

Listen, my advice is to just simply calm down. Calm Down. You asked for advice and that is what I can give. I have three small children 6, 4 and 1. I remember the days ( and still now sometimes) of not getting out of my p.j.'s or not showering or lack of getting to brush my hair. Simply, let it go...hold Harper, feed her, change her....get a peace about yourself (and she'll sense it). I'm not saying you're uptight, I have no idea....but, don't worry about other things right now....focus on you and Harper and getting her little habits down. Does this sort of make sense? It's ok to sit on the couch, feed her with your gigantic water (I remember being sooo thirsty) and mindlessly watch t.v.
Ok, so with my permission....give yourself permission to "just be".

Sorry for the novel. Sincerely, Katy; 2/12/2009 12:13 AM

«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 526 Newer› Newest»