I’ve been a bit of a hermit these past four weeks. Breastfeeding takes up a ton of time because you have to do it so often. My goal is to feed Jack every 2.5 hours, but he’s been such a finicky eater that he likes to nurse for short periods of time — every hour. I’ve been going to the Breastfeeding Center on K Street (DC) for their weekly group breastfeeding class. This non-profit is a godsend. There to educate and empower breastfeeding moms and provide support for those who are on the fence on breastfeeding. Because Jack’s slow weight gain, I’ve been frequenting their classes and have met with two of their lactation consultants. I love more than anything the consultant named Pat. When I was so concerned and emotional about Jack’s weight, I was also wondering about my milk supply. Pat acted like an investigator asking me specific questions about how I was feeding, how Jack was responding, and helped come up with a plan to increase my supply. She was such a positive and reassuring source. She has literally met with thousands of women and has over 25 years of experience. I felt like she had definitely seen it all and could draw upon her experience to really help me and Jack.

When today’s class was over, I slowly shuffled out of the Center feeling like I wanted go anywhere but home. I’ve been cooped up for so long. Being that it is winter and everyone has the sniffles, I’ve been overly protective as I really do not want Jack to get sick. He’s just too little and it would break my heart. But I was dying for a little something besides my house. So I spotted a Bubbles hair salon and decided, what the hell. My hair was getting so long and stringy. I popped in to see if they could take a walk-in. Moments later, I’m getting my hair washed and head massaged while holding Jack in my arms. I got a few inches taken off. I bet you can’t even notice can you? haha. And had it blown straight. I used to religiously blow dry my hair but haven’t in easily over year and a half. It’s fun to see myself as the old Katie. I remember that style! So here’s some bathroom photos. Now, I just need to lose those hefty last pounds and the old Katie will really be back!

My dearest Jack,

You are one month old today! I can’t believe it was only four short weeks ago where I held you in my arms for the first time.

You were born with my nose and your dad’s sweet disposition. You have been such an agreeable little one and barely fuss – only when you are hungry. You are a lazy eater though, and fall asleep frequently when you nurse so your weight gain began slowly which alarmed your poor mom! You were born so strong and you can lift your head high to look all around. You don’t hate tummy time the way other babies do. You lie there rather comfortably and pick your head up occasionally – just the way you’re supposed to! You love looking at your black and white art cards that help your limited newborn vision. You study them as your mom and dad describe what you’re seeing. You do not like to sleep in your bassinet. I never thought of myself as a “co-sleeper” but it is the only way either of us can get a wink of zzz’s. I sleep on my back with you on my stomach and together we get some rest. I hope to have a resolution to this next month, though I do treasure our special bond. You love the vibrating bouncy seat that detaches from your swing; it puts you right to sleep. I wonder if crib/bassinet mattresses could have a vibrating feature (wouldn’t that be nice?)!

From your month check-up at the pediatrician you weigh 9lbs 8oz – a healthy weight gain from your birth weight, your head circumference is 37cm, and you measure 21.5in long – all of which places you in the 50th percentile of babies your age.

You have made an everlasting impression in your dad’s and my life and we are over the moon in love with you. It has been a learning experience figuring out how to care for a newborn baby. But it truly comes naturally. We are here for you and are in awe watching your every blink, your yawns, and little smiles.

Love,
Momma

Photos taken by the super talented infant photographer, Amy Moore.

Here’s a little sweetness for your Friday afternoon. A video rhyme that was filmed at this past year’s Burning Man which was inspired by Dr. Seuss’ book, Oh, The Places You’ll Go. I think you’ll like it.

Oh yes hi, believe me, I haven’t forgotten about this little blog. But it is hard to step away from a three-week old with a face like this. I’ve turned into a big mush. I can’t stop looking at Jack. We snuggle and play and read. I soothe his tears and love on him non-stop. The days are slow, but they go by so quickly. I can’t believe we are approaching a month since he was born. Never have I ever imagined feeling love so strongly. It is undefinable except I’ll say that my heart hurts, I love him so.

Yesterday was the first day I spent watching Jack sans the help of family and friends. Daryle went back to work after two blissful weeks together cooing over our young son. I had been slightly dreading the day because these past weeks have been so new and special for us. The winter brought a long afternoon dusting of snow just in time for my first post-delivery meeting with my midwife, Whitney. I started getting Jack and myself ready a good two hours before leaving for my less than fifteen minute drive over to the place where Jack was born. I was well rehearsed for this outing from the pediatrician appointments we’ve had, packing the diaper bag, loading the car seat and finding parking downtown — so I felt confident to be at it alone. When we arrived at the hospital to meet Whitney, I was greeted with such warmth and a big hug. She asked me tons of questions: how was I feeling? How did I recall upon the delivery? Was it a good experience? How was I adjusting to life with a child? Just then I could hear the sound of a fetal doppler being done in the room next to mine — a baby heart beat in someone else’s belly. I was reminded that not long ago, I was that person listening to this little one’s heart in awe of what was growing inside me. I tuned back in to Whitney’s queries — feeling confident and happy at the journey we traveled and how much I’ve learned in just two weeks since Jack was born. I’m doing really well — the delivery was really hard (more on that later). I’m adjusting to the new schedule of caring for an infant. I probably spend hours gazing in amazement at Jack. He sleeps a lot and when he finally opens his eyes, I weep. I cherish every moment we have.

My dearest ones,
Daryle and I are pleased to announce the birth of our son, John Michael. We call him Jack.
Born one week ago today — 12/23/11 at 11:09 a.m.
Weighing 8lbs 15oz and 21 inches long.

Daryle and I couldn’t be happier over our beautiful one.
We have so much to be thankful of.

Hope all is well and bright in your lives.

With love,
Katie

Greetings from December 21st — my official due date! The day has come and still no bebe. But I remain feeling really good, and surprisingly very calm too. The baby has been moving a bunch — I had my midwife appointment today and let’s just say things are moving along. I just need to be sure to keep active by walking to march this baby down.

Since I’m out of work for (pre) maternity leave, I’m sooo happy to be able to take in the holiday spirit which tends to easily fly by due to our busy lives. My sister and her (Irish!) boyfriend, Mick are staying with me which has made the season extra special as Daryle and I await the arrival of our little one.

As you probably recall, Daryle’s birthday is Christmas day. We are always so excited to get the house in order for festivities. When Daryle’s parents retired and relocated, we scored a ton of his family’s Christmas decor including his mom’s Christmas Department 56 collection. Some may call it nerdy, but the ceramic villages are so charming and beautiful. Every year, Daryle carefully sets up the towns, and decorates the scene with carolers, and snowy evergreens. I swear he loves to do it because it reminds him of playing with G.I. Joe figurines.

Department 56 over the mantel.

Our tree shimmers!

Our nativity scene. My friend commented that the figures are “almost life size” which makes me crack up. They are pretty big.

A goofy picture, but I love this thing — a faux log and fire set. When you plug it in, it makes a crackling noise. It lets off no heat, but I swear I can feel warmth from the sound.

And a new addition this year — my mom picked out two fabulous tinsel trees! We love them and so far the cats have left them alone. :)

Have you decked your halls this year?

Here’s hoping for a little bundle to share the holiday spirit with soon~~~

Katie

I’ve actually never been one to geek out on tea and spice shops — mainly because the few times I have gone in, I’ve been offended by the prices and wind up backing out of the store slowly being slightly embarrassed. But last night, I popped into Georgetown’s Spice & Tea Exchange after having an appetizer at Sea Catch a block away (love that restaurant, like l-o-v-e) to find such a special store with an apothecary vibe. All spices were lined up in glass jars and the owner encouraged my friend and me to open any of the jars to smell the aroma of its contents. How fun! What amazed me most wasn’t the unusual spices (and there were many) but the typical spices that I use on a daily basis. Take bay leaves (I love making soups) — I couldn’t believe how fresh and aromatic they smelled. Or, the varieties of cinnamon (hello Christmas cookies) from different regions in the world — decadent! There were so many cool salts — yes Himalayan of course, but so much more: smoked salts, chocolate salts, wine salts — no joke! So many neat rubs for meats, fish, pasta and olive oils. And teas too: green, black, and herbal all combining flavors you don’t ordinarily find. Obviously I’m excited about this — mainly because I’m done with buying spices from the supermarket. They’re old and have lost their flavor before they even hit the shelves. For the prices and the ambiance, I think I’ve just stumbled upon a new hobby.

Any bright and fun lip color. I’m obsessed with reds and pinks, Laura Mersier, Nars, you name it.

Any unique heirloom seeds.

Gwyneth Paltrow’s cookbook, My Father’s Daughter.

This beautiful Moma ring. So simple and pretty!

Check past Sunshine+Design gift guides here.

For the graphic designer / mid-century treasurer: Saul Bass retrospective in hardcover. (It’s amazing.)

For the stylish camper / or the camper that needs a little more style: Coleman [retro] army-green cooler.

For your best friend who keeps talking about getting a record player, but never gets around to it: The Crossley wooden record player with wireless speakers.

For the sleazy Italian film lover that still obsesses over the French band, Air and was really into the Roman Coppola film, CQ — here Rome is the brainchild of Danger Mouse (OMG!) who collaborated with Italian composer Daniele Luppi to make an authentically 60′s-70′s Italian sounding album using vintage equipment in the recording studio. Vocals by Jack White and Norah Jones — I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of this album. Buy it on vinyl — it comes with a free MP3 download of the entire album. Your welcome forever. ~

Image of Rome. Love all of them.

Check out previous Sunshine+Design gift guides here.