Mimi & Nana G's Chronicles

But the Angry Bird managed to stay warm and go

‘tricky or treating’……………..

We’ve gone from August to October in the blink of an eye! Mimi has been out of commission for a while learning how to change from a PC  to MAC. It’s not easy to teach an old dog new tricks. I’m fortunate that Jeremy has the patience to teach me. However, Bella hasn’t missed a beat! She is walking or should I say running and communicating one way or another. Doug and I continue to look forward to Bella days and plan accordingly. Our world pretty much stops to focus on her when we have the opportunity. The last outing that we went on was to the mall. Bella managed to entertain the shoppers at the GAP and was more than happy to model the clothing. She pulled off a free lunch and struck up a conversation with anyone that responded to her “hi.” Needless to say, we had fun.

IMG_0175

I feel so bad that is has been this long since I have added anything to our blog!! I am surprised the Blog police haven’t issued an arrest!!

I have been spending any min of free time I have studying for my IBCLC license!

What is that you ask? Well IF I pass my boards on July 25th, I will be an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant!! So keep all of your fingers and toes crossed for me!! I have no idea why I thought I could do this!!! The ole 50 year old brain don’t work like it used to!!

Any spare time I have I watch or visit or drool over Dash!! He is growing sooooo fast, and is the most adorable thing I have EVER seen!! I would like to spend every waking min with him!

Chris and Kellie have been here for the past week, and we have had a wonderful time with them! Dash really loves them, and it has been very cute watching them do things together. Uncle Chris even changed a diaper today!!!!!!! (we won’t mention the fact that it wasn’t even wet!)

Bampi has been away for the last 4 days on one of his MANY golf trips of the year. I don’t really know which one this is, its hard to keep track… Gonzo Cup, Golftober Fest, Member guest… the list goes on and on. He will be home tonight, and I have had strict orders from Kaylie that when Bampi has been away this long… Dash will not be able to come here because the house is “gross” I have been busting ass all day to get it in shape.

So just a hello, to say I am still around, and will be back in tip top blogging shape after July 25th. Thank you Mimi for holding us up!!!

Nana G

What does a rocking chair mean to you? Maybe you rocked the chair back and forth as a child, reading your favorite book. Perhaps you watched as Nana rocked while she gazed out the window at the snow falling. Or maybe you remember a loved one rocking on the porch as the entire family laughed and told stories. You may even cherish the memory of your mother singing a lullaby as she rocked you reading “Goodnight Moon.” The rocking chair is associated with so many precious memories for so many people-regardless of age, gender, or background. Even sitting in a chair, whether it’s rocking or gliding, is enough to produce tender and soothing memories, the kind we love to re-live.

In spite of those wonderful memories, some people might still be reluctant to add this piece of furniture to their home. Check out these 5 common myths about rocking chairs: Rocking chair myth #1: You need to be “old” to enjoy a rocking chair. Nothing could be further from the truth. Of course, the senior set might enjoy the gentle motion of a rocking or gliding chair. In fact, rocking in rocking chairs has been shown to improve strength and increase circulation. However, people of any age can enjoy the benefits of relaxing in a rocking chair. What’s more, modern designs have updated the classic rocking chair style. Shoppers are no longer limited to wooden rocking chairs, spindled models that look exactly like the version that sat in Grandma’s house for so many years. Instead, contemporary designers have put their stamp on updated designs, making the chair a trendy addition to even the sleekest interiors. Rest assured there is a rocking chair design for you.

Rocking chair myth #2: Rocking chairs are not comfy.

This myth is one that is, flat out, untrue. It might be correct to say that very old-rocking chairs, with hard wood seats and straight lines, could be a bit on the uncomfortable side. However, modern design improvements have changed the shape of the chair, creating the kind of furniture you want to spend time in-even if it doesn’t have cushions. Some furniture designers even offer rocker chairs that are custom fit to the contours of your body. In addition, there’s a wide range of designs that allow you to choose one that is most comfortable for you. From reclining and swiveling to rockers and gliders, you’re sure to find a style that fits what you’re looking for. You can even choose between fabrics or wood finishes. When it comes to finding a rocking chair that you can sink into at the end of a seemingly endless day, your options are nearly limitless.

Rocking chair myth #3: Rocking chairs look so old-school.

Think that rocking chairs won’t fit into your décor? Think again. You can have the comfort of a rocking chair with the style of a supermodel. From sleek and stylish to chic and contemporary, you’ll discover styles that send a message. Find a comfy rocking chair in a variety of styles, including traditional, transitional, modern, or contemporary. In fact, some chair designs are so avant-garde that they look as if they should be in a modern art museum. Don’t let your fear of the old-fashioned keep you from rocking chair shopping-you will find a chair that suits any taste.

Rocking chair myth #4: Rocking chairs are for nurseries.

Of course, moms and mimies the world over have used nursery rocking chairs to soothe babies into a sweet slumber. But infants are not the only ones who benefit from the gentle rocking motion. Studies have shown that the motion releases relaxation-inducing endorphins in people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Children with attention disorders, like ADHD , also benefit from time in rocking chairs, according to researchers. People who live with arthritis also report that rocking helps to improve flexibility and strength in aching knees.

Rocking chair myth #5: You can’t have a rocking chair around cats or kids.

Okay, if Fluffy gets his tail caught under the rocker rail of a traditional-style chair, it will hurt. However, the modern gliding rocking chair eliminates this painful problem. The newer style is also ideal for kids because teeny toes won’t get caught. In fact, since the Dutailier glider chair became available there is a trend among moms-to-be to choose this kid-friendly style. These are not your grandma’s rocking chairs. No matter what your taste is, you can find a rocking chair that will fit right in with your personal style-in any room of the house. Since the chairs are comfy, as well, you’re guaranteed to find one that is functional and versatile. It’s time to look for your perfect rocking chair or glider.

When it comes to self feeding, the mind and the capabilities of the baby don’t always progress in sync. Often a baby is determined to feed herself, but doesn’t yet have the ability to grasp the food or spoon, and she ends the meal messy and frustrated. Other times, babies are content with the ease of being fed, and despite being able to feed themselves, continue to push mom to do the job. In the former case, you need to provide the opportunities to make her efforts successful, and in the later case, you have to do a little persistent pushing.

Let’s talk about the first case. If you have a baby that insists on feeding herself, even though she can’t get the job done, there are a few things you can do. In order for a baby to successfully self-feed, she needs to have a pretty well developed pincer grasp. This allows her to pick up food and dexterously get it to her mouth. Prior to the pincer grasp is the palmer grasping.  At this stage, babies can only pick up things in the palm of their hands.

What it amounts to is taking fistfuls of food and aiming it somewhere near their mouth, and mashing it in — often scraping the palm with their lips to get it all. What a mess! This sort of grasp precludes efficient self-spoon feeding.

At this early stage you can help out by doing a number of things. First, for finger foods, offer those things that she can hold in her palm, like long crackers, or strips of toast, where there is still food sticking out the end for her to bite off . Second, give your baby one spoon while you feed with the other. For her spoon, use sticky food and load the spoon for her to self feed. Food like thick baby cereal, or mashed fruits and vegetables that have been mixed into mashed potatoes. Any thick, gooey mess that can adhere to the spoon or be picked up, but still is easily “gummed” in her mouth without causing her to gag, is a good food at this time.

During this time, while she is learning to feed herself, and waiting for her pincer grasp to emerge, a lot of her nutrition will come from breastmilk or formula and the baby foods that you are feeding her. It is wise to start backing off on the less chunky forms of baby food, since they do not encourage her to use her more mature ability to chew and swallow like an adult. And for that ability to develop, she needs to practice it.

Once you notice that she is more adept at pincer grasp, you can let her pick up more and more of her own feeding. (All fluids at meal time should be offered in a sippy cup, not in a bottle). A self motivated baby will make the switch to self feeding by herelf, often before she is capable of getting enough food that way. By the time a baby is between 10 and 14 months, he/she will be an independent eater.

For the baby who is quite satisfied with being fed baby food, and drinking from a bottle, you will need to be a little pushy. Begin slowly so as to not shock or confuse your baby. Begin at breakfast when baby is well rested and up for a new challenge. Eliminate the bottle from this meal first and encourage her to feed himself her own cereal, and offering some toast. Load her spoon and help her get it to his mouth. Don’t be too ready to offer your spoonful. Let her be for a few minutes so she can experiment with the food and feeding. Back off on your participation.

Gradually eliminate the finally pureed baby foods as they may hinder her moving on to more appropriately textured foods. ( Of course there are always those foods that will remain forever in her diet that are pureed or mashed, like applesauce or winter squash. You don’t need to eliminate all soft foods, but you do need to encourage the addition of chunkier, and thicker ones.) A baby who fits into this category will be a little longer in making the move to complete self-feeding.

For most babies, expertise in using a spoon will take years to develop (Have you ever watched a seven year old eat?). Provide baby with those great utensils available at baby stores, the kind that she can hold easily and that have the curve that helps get the food to the target. It will make her hard efforts more rewarding.

As with almost every phase of child development, each child has their own, unique schedule. What is important is to be cued into your child, being aware of when she is ready to move on, when she needs some encouragement, and when you need to back off. Your ‘listening’ skills are important for this. Notice how she chews and swallows, how she holds her finger foods, etc. From those cues, you can determine when she needs your help, and when she needs to do it herself, when she is ready for chunkier foods, or if a thinner texture is needed a while longer. Don’t hold hard and fast to any specific age that she needs to be accomplished at something. So long as your see progress in the right direction, then relax and know that you are doing the best you can.

 Highlights

• Squash                                                
• Lentils
• Dark green leafy vegetables
• Broccoli
• Blueberries
• Avocados
• Meat
• Prunes
• Garbanzo beans
• Mandarin oranges

There are lots of healthy, baby-friendly foods out there, but some stand out from the pack. These ten culinary superheroes are loaded with essential nutrients, reasonably priced, easy to prepare, and delicious.

What’s more, now’s the perfect time to introduce them. While the very word “nutritious” can start a food strike among older kids, babies’ opinions, and palates, are still relatively open. Many parents are surprised to discover that their babies really enjoy these foods, either from the very first bite or after a few exposures.

Here are ten of our absolute favorites. After introducing any new food, wait three days before moving on to the next new food to identify any possible allergic reaction.  If your baby is still a beginner at eating solids, grind or puree the food as needed. (Find out more about preparing homemade baby food.)

Squash

Squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, is naturally sweet, and has a pleasing, creamy texture.

Serving idea: Sprinkle parmesan cheese and a little chili seasoning on half a squash, roast it, and scoop out a serving for your baby, suggests pediatrician Susanna Block, owner of World Baby Foods, an ethnic baby food line. “Cooked squash with a little cilantro, mild chilies, and garbanzo beans are another great combination,” she says.

Lentils

Crammed with protein and fiber, lentils pack a powerful nutritional punch. They’re also one of the cheapest healthy foods you can buy.

Serving idea: Combine cooked lentils with mixed vegetables, rice, and seasonings of your choice. “Try basil and oregano,” suggests dietitian Karin Hosenfeld of North Dallas Nutrition. “Or toss in a bay leaf, which works really well with lentils.” (Remove the bay leaf before serving.)

Dark green leafy vegetables

Leafy greens boast high amounts of iron and folate. While spinach is perhaps the best known of this group, there are many other varieties, including kale, chard, and collard greens.

Serving idea: Steam and puree a batch of greens, then mix with iron-fortified cereal to give your baby a double dose of iron. Experiment with the proportions to see what your baby likes; Hosenfeld suggests starting with two parts veggie to one part cereal.

Broccoli

Brimming with folate, fiber, and calcium, broccoli is also known for its cancer-fighting properties, says dietitian Kate Geagan, author of Go Green, Get Lean. And thanks to its sulfur compounds, it has a unique flavor that can help expand your baby’s tastes.

Serving idea: Steam pieces until soft, then chill. “Steaming takes the bite out of broccoli,” says Hosenfeld. “And chilled broccoli is sometimes better accepted by babies. It can also be soothing during teething.”

Blueberries

The deep, brilliant blue of these berries comes from flavonoids called anthocyanins, which are good for your baby’s eyes, brain, and even urinary tract, says Stephen Gass, co-author of Mix and Mash: Adventures in the Kitchen for Baby and You.

Serving Idea: Gass suggests this easy blueberry soup: Combine 1 cup of blueberries with one-quarter cup of water in a bowl, microwave for one minute, and let cool. Then swirl some plain yogurt on top. 

Avocados

“Avocados are a rich source of unsaturated fats,” says nutritionist Leanne Cooper, author of What Do I Feed My Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide to Solids. “In fact, the fat composition is somewhat similar to that of breast milk.” Concerned about your baby eating fatty food? Don’t be. “Unsaturated fat is the good kind of fat, and babies need it for brain development,” says pediatrician Ari Brown, co-author of Baby 411: Clear Answers and Smart Advice for Your Baby’s First Year.

Serving idea: Try combining mashed avocado with other foods, such as cream cheese, apples, or canned fish, suggests Cooper. And when it’s playgroup time, ditch the crackers and take an avocado along instead. “Avocados can travel in your bag at room temperature and you can offer them in slivers or spread on toast fingers while you sip coffee with your friends,” she says.

Meat

Many of us don’t think of meat as a typical baby food, but it’s one of Brown’s top choices. “Meat is a great source of zinc and iron,” she explains.

Serving idea: Cook stew! “Stew is the ideal baby food – easy to make, easy to chew, and endless in its variety,” says Matthew Amster-Burton, author of Hungry Monkey: A Food-Loving Father’s Quest to Raise an Adventurous Eater. Experiment with adding different veggies and seasonings, such as ginger and parsley. And the best part? Tough, cheap meats (like chuck) work best, says Amster-Burton, whose own family dines on stew almost weekly. Just be sure to cook the stew long enough for the meat to turn soft and scrumptious. 

Prunes

Prunes have lots of fiber and can help relieve constipation – which, notes Brown, your baby may experience after you introduce solids.

Serving idea: Puree prunes and serve them straight or mixed with other foods, such as cereal or applesauce, for a naturally sweet treat. If your baby is badly constipated, Brown advises adding a teaspoon or two of prune juice to formula or expressed breast milk.

Garbanzo beans

Like lentils and other beans, garbanzos are rich in protein and fiber, says Geagan. They’re also inexpensive and versatile.

Serving idea: Try hummus. You can find it in many grocery stores, or make your own by pureeing cooked garbanzo beans with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and tahini. You can also make a delectable finger food by sautéing or roasting the beans. “I have a 19-month-old daughter who loves chickpeas sautéed in a pan with seasonings and left out for her to munch,” says mom Christina DeLuca.

Mandarin oranges

High in vitamin C and antioxidants, mandarin oranges are a supreme finger food. “Babies really love the flavor,” says Hosenfeld.

Serving idea: This is a particularly easy one to prepare – just cut the segments into bite-size pieces and serve. You can buy mandarin oranges fresh or canned, but make sure the canned version is packed in water, not syrup, which contains added sugar.