Ode to Jenny McCarthy

Belly Laughs: The Naked Truth About Pregnancy and Childbirth is the best pregnancy book ever and the only one worth reading.

From Publishers Weekly- McCarthy, 1994 Playmate of the Year, actress (Scream 3; Baywatch; etc.) and former host of MTV's Singled Out, gave birth to her first child in 2002. Her pregnancy wasn't pretty—and she wants to tell readers all about it. At the outset, she tells them, "If you bought this book, you are already aware of my frankness when it comes to certain things—anatomy and bodily functions among them. If someone gave this book to you as a gift and you've never heard of me, apologies to you!" She goes on to recount the nitty-gritty of pregnancy in all its gory detail, covering morning sickness, hormonal rage, cravings, hemorrhoids, "engorged" breasts, gas, hot flashes, fainting spells, weight gain, acne, water retention and, finally, labor. McCarthy is undeniably crass but funny, and her candor and self-deprecation are refreshing. Each brief, chatty chapter focuses on a different—and awful—facet of pregnancy, with McCarthy relating personal anecdotes and usually winding down by reassuring women they're not alone. McCarthy's tales are, for the most part, a hoot, though they may offend more uptight readers. For example, in the beginning of McCarthy's pregnancy, she was constipated, so she visited a specialist. In the waiting room, the assistant called her name, and "everyone... looked up in surprise, and I knew what they were thinking: 'Jenny McCarthy has butt hole problems?' I was so embarrassed, until I realized that they had no right to be smirking: Those assholes were also there because of their own assholes. I felt better already."Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

I guess I have always found Jenny mildly amusing, though raunchy (image: Jenny sitting on teh toilet with her underpants down for a Candies shoes ad) at the very least because she seems free to be herself. I think I appreciate her more after reading this book. For all of her crudeness, she seems to be a better person than many celebrities (better morals somehow). But, back to the book..she discusses such things as fat arms, not wanting hemorrhoids, gaining 60 pounds, 36D boobs in the second month not being a Godsend (many books think you should do back flips) and she spends a whole lot of time watching TV. I could really identify with this book. I did not identify at all with The Girlfriends Guide (also written by a Playmate, coincidentally) and found the author to be vain and whiny and silly and annoying. Ironically, this book was referred to me with rave reviews by people who I do not find to be vain, silly or annoying.

Moving on, What to Expect When You're Expecting was written by two prison warden types who expect you to gain 15 pounds and eat a balanced diet. I'll stop there.

Fed up with most of the books for women, I started reading Kevin's Books (I skipped his first one entitle My Boys Can Swim, which was about 17 pages long), if for no other reason then they had cartoons. The Expectant Father was pretty realistic actually, and also gives a week by week account of what to expect, but the second book about after the baby is born (The New Father) is mostly about the importance of nursing. And it is written by a guy! Many peopel have asked me where my hostility stems from when it comes to nursing. To be honest, these books could be where I got my complex from (with the exception of Secrets of the Baby Whisperer which is also worth reading). Jenny doesn't nurse either. And she was super obsessed about having a healthy baby. So there is another person out there who did not find these two things mutually exclusive.

Seriously, I am done ranting about breastfeeding. The book is good for other reasons. Lots of them. It's just a great book. And a quick read. Buy it. No, actually, don't buy it. If I know you and you are pregnant, I will be buying it for you. SO, DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK!!!!! But, if you are not pregant and o not plan to be in the future, but have been or know peopel who are, pick up a copy. It is super funny. I flew back from Boston first class the other night (I have plenty of miles, that's why) and was literally laughing hysterically amdist the uptight crowd.

***I am aware this blog sounds awfully rambling. Free wine in first class. Just by the book!

As usual, Harry is as cute as can be. He now giggles when you tickle him under his armpits. He giggles so much that I literally fell on the floor laughing the first time I heard it. I think he does it on purpose. He has that goofy, hoarse little giggle. I can not emphasize enough how funny it is.
He is also able to hold his cookies, his sippy cup, and most of his toys with two hands. Apparently this is a big baby milestone, but I do not remember why. He is now able to pass things from one hand to the other.
He has been sitting up for a while now, which I read last night in one magazine should not happen until 8 months. I think that was the only place I saw that though. Maybe it is by 8 months…In any case, while he is sitting up, he can lift his head now to actually drink from his sippy cup. He can hold his bottle up now and then too, but gradually he lowers it until he cannot drink anything out of it. Must be heavy.
He still only crawls on his belly, but yesterday he lifted his butt up and propelled himself forward to reach some toys. He is super focused on walking. It is all he wants to do. He likes to hold onto our hands with both of his (he prefers two hands) and will walk all over the house, up and down the driveway...He squeals and starts to pull himself up when he is not walking.
As Kevin already noted, Harry had lots of other firsts this weekend too. He was introduced to rocks (for his later rock climbing adventures). He was not impressed with the rocks, but we will keep working on this. He took his first metro ride. He was also unimpressed by this. He likes to play things cool. For example, when he falls alseep in his car seat, he likes to pretend he was not sleeping ("What? I'm awake!"). Hopefully this is not practice fro falling asleep in class or in meetings.
First marathon was also this weekend. He got a few high fives for the monkey suit. Perhaps 20 years from now he can run teh marathon himself dressed as a monkey. He will blend in well with Kermit, Captain America, all of the Superman... He can be a local celebrity like the running Kermit, who runs every year in a full Kermit suit, including felt head. I don't know how the guy breathes!
Finally, this was also Harry's first Halloween. He did not make it for the official trick or treating, but made out quite nicely with his dentist friendly treats: Eeyore & banana (Wagners), $5 cash (Wileys) and some previous treats of Halloween socks (Kim & John) and a pumpkin bib (Grandmom)---and also three cards from the Wileys, K&J and Aunt Anna & Uncle Bryan. He love shis treats and says thank you to everyone!

Harry had quite a weekend...

Well, let's back up a bit. Originally, this weekend was to have been another first, but a first for Kim & I. We had planned to go on a little getaway of our own for the Halloween weekend at an estate called Allenberry just outside of Harrisburg, PA. Harry and Bailey were going to spend the weekend with Becky in NJ. However, at something vaguely resembling the last minute, I wimped out. I'm just not ready to leave the boy for the entire weekend at someone else's house without one of us with him.

So instead, the four of us, yes including Bailey, got to spend a nice family weekend together at home and around DC.

We all took a nice ride in the new ride up the GW Parkway to Great Falls, MD. On the way, we decided to swing through Glen Echo Park. That was a bit of a weird diversion... The Park is actually an old amusement park from the early 1900s that really doesn't look like it's that much different from when it closed in 1968, which is odd, as it's held & controlled by the National Park Service... You'd think it'd be in better shape.

So, not much of a hike, which is what Harry & Bailey were up for, so on we headed to Great Falls to hit the C&O Canal Towpath... Harry's first Nature Outing. He was enamored with the crunching of the leaves underfoot, all of the bikers cruising by, and mirrored water. He was quite a hit with many of the other hikers, and seemed to have a blast. Completely tuckered out, he slept most of the way home.

Sunday, Halloween, Harry got himself dressed up in his new Monkey Suit, and we headed downtown for the Marine Corps Marathon. Kim had a few friends running, and it turned out to be a really gorgeous day (better for spectating than for running IMHO). We literally bumped into Tara while at the race, so we got to hang with her for a bit, and found out that I actually knew someone running as well, and was even lucky enough to pick her out of the crowd around Mile 20.

Back in the car for a spin down to Kris & Jenn's for Harry's first tricks & treats... For his trick, he showed everyone how easy it was NOT to eat his banana (a difficult trick for a monkey to pull off) and his treat was an Eeyore with dancing ears!

All this action without a nap, and coupled with the end of Daylight Savings made for an early bedtime tonight.

A wonderful weekend of firsts, including this, my first post in quite some time. Needless to say, I've been catching plenty from all sides on my lack of submissions. It's funny, with the new job and limited hours, I thought I'd have all of this extra time on my hands to do so much more with. I've got to say, I really don't know what I would have done if I was still with the Caps and the NHL wasn't locked out... Would've made for some loooooooong nights.

I know this is Harry's World, and I feel it is important that we keep this website about him. SO, on that note, Harry's mom can fit into her size 2 Bananna Republic Tuxedo pants. Woo-Hoo!!!!

Harry’s ½ year birthday was the 22nd!
I took the day off to take him in for his checkup, and we got to spend the whole day together.
He is the greatest little boy.
He was very brave to get shots, and then very cuddly afterwards.
Everyone at the doctors office loved his hair (the way it sticks up).

Had lunch with Lisa and Jake afterwards at Faccia Luna. Harry smiled the whole time (to my relief!). The boys looked adorable in their side by side highchairs (Jake will be 2 in December).

Played outside later and literally took 100 pictures.

Harry went with me to packet pick up for the Army Ten Miler on Saturday. Again, very well behaved in the Baby Bjorn. He got to hang out with Tara and Sydney at Starbucks, and then we headed back home to see Pop pop.

After his busy day, he slep 11 hours (7PM-6AM) which seriously helped me to prepare for my first race since Labor Day 2003. I am not ashamed to admit, I cheated. I ran 8 miles. BUT- it was mostly because I did not want to hold people up at the end. I have not run in a long time and am rather slow. None of us trained for this marathon. I did okay and am looking forward to pounding the pavement again. Probably not as many miles though. That C-section scar STUNG like crazy afterwards!

So, now the Harry facts:
Height: 27" (75%! He is catching up to his weight!)
Weight: 20# 4.6oz. (still 95%)
Head: 18"
He is currently wearing 12-18 month clothes.
He is not crawling yet, but can move forward commando style.
He sits up by himself and can sit in a highchair, on the floor and at the little table at the doctors with the chair pushed all the way in.
His current favorite toy is his Leap Frog Block from Linda Reis that plays nursery rhymes when you turn it. He turns it after each song. He also still loves his Baby Einstein Lullabye Classics book and Hey! Wake Up!
New foods include plain soy yogurt and organic, wheat free, dairy free, sugar free (relax, not taste free!) maple syrup biscuits, which he quickly learned can not go in his mouth side ways. He can not feed himself with both hands and seems to prefer the left, but he can make quite a little mess with that cookie, which Bailey is happy to take off of his hands when he is through!

We are very lucky to have such a great little guy in our lives!

Control!

I was going to wait until Friday to blog, after Harry’s 6 month check up, to post his vitals, but he was so cute this morning!
He is really in control of his body now.
I have had “the flu” for a couple of days and have been trying to avoid him (very painful). Instead of breathing germs on him while Kevin was in the shower this morning, I plopped him in his portable highchair and put it up on the bed in front of the TV so he could watch Baby Galileo. He literally watched it on the edge of his seat. Why is this impressive, you ask? Well, I know you are all aware how much he loves his Baby Einstein DVDs, but I said literally on the edge of his seat. His high chair reclines, but he used his little muskles to hold himself upright the whole time. It was so cute. He is such a little person.
It is so hard to believe he is already six months old! Yet, when you look at him, it is hard to believe he is only six months! His cousins are over a year old and both are smaller than him. Some friends of ours are concerned that their baby is 22 pounds at 7 months (even though he is their third child, and the first was the biggest) but I am guessing Harry is 22 or 23 pounds. He has definitely gotten taller too. Length-wise he fits in 18 month jeans. And he is doing so much lately. Menike calls it “monkey see monkey do” (my little monkey!) but he wants to be just like Sid, his friend at daycare, who is about16 months old. Sid can walk now and Harry is just enthralled by everything he does. Apparently Sid is the coolest. But, I have to admit, it is super cool to see Harry, Sid and Susanna all sitting in a circle singing songs and playing piano. Harry insists that Menike clap the whole time. He is very insistent.
Harry is also very fond of life size Elmo and the airplane swing at Menike’s. The boy definitely has his likes and dislikes…though it is mostly the things he likes that he is insistent upon. His only dislikes so far seem to be sweet things. He would much rather have peas than apples, squash than bananas…certainly does not take after his dear old dad, or anyone in my family other than myself. He also does not like sitting still. He likes to move at all times. Oh, and now that he has learned the international signal for “pick me up” (you know, arms raised) we no longer have an excuse to pretend that is not what he wants. Things are about to get busy! But, as long as it burns off those last ten pounds, I am all for it!

On the Road Again…

Been traveling a lot lately. A bit more than I expected or remembered, but after over a month spent mostly at home, I am not complaining.

I had a few days in Minnesota for CRA Days back in August, and within the past two weeks a few days in North Jersey for computer training, filled in for a site visit in Tulsa for 2 days (not as bad a place as you might think. In fact, it’s OK) and am on my way to Miami until Tuesday night. I missed a lot of Harry time this week. But, with 6 weeks of vacation (soon to be 7, and 8 in 2007) I have Wednesday off to spend the day with him. I try to take a day with Harry whenever I am gone too long.

Lately I have also been trying very hard to recognize that people have their own parenting styles. That is a hard thing to do when so many of us are so passionate about raising our kids a certain way, based on how we were raised, what we read, what we see around us---all for better or worse. I know I think my way is the best way, but, in my own defense, I have a Masters degree is Psychology that includes many hours of Early Childhood Development and Family Counseling. I have also been studying the world around me for as long as I remember. And I talk to people that I think are doing a good job, or have done a good job, and ask their advice. And I know I can get arrogant at times…but I think that would happen less often if I didn’t feel that my every move was made under a microscope- a very public one. I think most people feel it is their right to evaluate your techniques and present you with a full critique. It doesn’t matter if they are a pediatrician and parent of 10 or a high school football player with nothing but an opinion And everyone has an opinion.

So, in hopes of encouraging myself to respect other peoples methods of child rearing and to ease some of my own defensiveness, I thought I would explain a few things about life in Harry’s world.

1. Yes. I work outside of the home. I went to school for…I don’t know…do we count nursery school? Post high school, it was 7.5 years. I paid for school myself and I worked at least part time for all of it. I wanted an education. I like to work. My career is fulfilling. I think this is a good example to set for Harry: that he can work hard to grow up and achieve whatever it is he wants to achieve. With hard work, anything is possible. I would say that this example would be especially important for a girl, but I think that would be an unnecessary statement. No offense to my own mother, but she stayed home with me until I was 8, and had a flexible job thereafter, and I don’t think it defined my life. Sure, I remember her being home, and I am grateful to have had a happy childhood, but what I remember of my mom being home is that I would play with legos or play-doh by myself while she talked on the phone or did the cooking or cleaning. Hardly quality time. My friends’ homes were exactly the same way.

2. Next topic: daycare. Gasp, Harry has someone else to take care of him during the day! This is true. He has a wonderful care giver who knows a lot about babies and takes excellent care of him. He gets lots of tummy time while he watches the 3 other kids, Susanna, Sid and Nate. No one is more excited than Menike when Harry does something new, such as crawling backwards. Well, maybe Menike’s husband, Danny. This man goes to work early so he can see the kids in the afternoon. He often sounds like he takes childcare courses himself. Great people. And great little kids that Harry just adores. And Harry seems to get the same amount of quality time from me whether I am home with him or he is at daycare. It is about 6 hours. The boy weighs about 22 pounds. I can’t possibly lug him around all day, especially with the condition my body is in after gaining and almost losing 60 pounds in a year. And since we don’t get the sleep we’d like, I just don’t have any more energy for him. This way, he gets quality time from another person for 8 hours a day. He gets 14 hours of quality time instead of 6, and has more people to love him. How could that be a bad thing?

3. My job takes me away on business and I am not home every night. Hey, if you have to work, this is a great way to do it. Nurses have similar schedules when they concentrate their work week to spend more time with their kids. And nursing is thought to be an ideal job if you have kids and “have” to work. On a side note, I think it is sad that some people thing working is something that “has” to be done by some people when in fact there are some people out there who enjoy their jobs. But, back to the subject at hand. I might not get to kiss him goodnight every day, but on the days that I am home, I can pick him up at 4 instead of being stuck in Beltway traffic until 7:30. People often ask me who takes care of him while I am gone. Well, Harry’s dad. Kevin. Remember him? He knows as much as I do. He held and fed and diapered and swaddled Harry before I did. I know both of our dads call to check in on him and see “how he does” when I am away. I think this is hilarious. Except for the occasion when Harry is sent to school in sweatpants, he does awesome. No interruption whatsoever. And how lucky is Harry to get to know his dad as well as his mom? I am so glad that society has changed so much that men are encouraged to spend time with their little ones. And I am so lucky to have someone who is up to the challenge!

4. Another one I hear a lot: How do I nurse when I am traveling? Well, I don’t. Harry has formula, just like most of us did. And it is even better for him than what existed back in the 70s. Feel free to argue with me that he won’t be as healthy or as bright as other kids. Bring it on! I’ve got lots of examples of the opposite being true. But the point is, people have their own choices for not nursing, so listen up college guys. I had blinding migraines and nausea for 8 months of my pregnancy. How could anyone take care of a baby in that condition? When you nurse, your hormones do not return to normal. Mine have, and I am healthy again. Harry is well cared for, alert, and knock on wood has never had a cold. Other people have other reasons for wanting to nurse or not wanting to nurse. BOTH WAYS ARE FINE AND NO ONE SHOULD BE MADE TO FEEL INADEQUATE OR A WORSE PARENT FOR THEIR CHOICE! And that goes to all of the chicks out there who are in agony over all of the peer pressure around them. Been there. Over it. La Leche League is worse than Michael Moore.

5. Harry started eating at 4 months? Yes! He was consuming 40 ounces a day of formula. He almost tripled his birth weight. He had teeth! Yes, he eats solid foods, and he loves it. They are all organic, most of them home made from live, organic foods. Why should he not receive extra nutrients? Even if he was breast fed, why would giving him food have been bad? (this is rhetorical. I am familiar with the arguments). And why is there so little talk about the importance of a healthy diet rich in preservative-free, pesticide-free foods full of vitamins and minerals? After thee emphasis of breast feeding, I guess they are set for life.

I hope my latest of rants has not offended anyone. I have the utmost respect for people who stay home with their kids, those who nurse every two hours and those who give over their lives to their children. I think it is great that these people are so self-less and attentive to their children’s needs and to do what they feel is best for them. But, just be cause that is how they do things, that does not mean that their way is better. And I hope these people all make their choices because it is their choice, and not someone else’s. I think we all need to look at the big picture. If our goals are to raise happy, bright, well-adjusted kids, we need to evaluate our situations and go from there. Extreme views are often not the best ones.

Common sense and genetics would tell us that kids end up being a lot like their parents. I just learned this weekend that Kevin’s hair stuck up just like Harry’s, and he also was not happy at noisy parties. Harry is the same way. Maybe what we feel would have been the best way for us to be raised really is the best for our kids. And maybe we also need to pay attention to what works for them once we try something out and be open to suggestions. If you are home all day, exhausted, lonely, tired and resentful, why is it better for your kids to be with you? Likewise, if Harry is miserable at daycare, maybe we will need to re-evaluate. Additionally, why is it okay for a dad to be away from their kids but not a mom? Why is it better to work locally and be gone more hours? Why is nursing every two hours better than having the energy to stimulate your child’s mind? And why is it okay to give kids chocolate, Fritos, juice, crackers…blah, blah. blah once they stop nursing? It takes me back to the issue of sterilization. For years we have been over using antibiotics, anti-microbials, super cleaning everything to the point that illnesses like allergies, asthma and Kevin’s mom tells me, Chrone’s Disease have sky rocketed. With our kids’ best interests in mind, we have inadvertently caused them harm.

I hope that if we do something that we believe in that inadvertently harms Harry, we will recognize it and make some changes. Right now, he is as happy as can be.

Before I left, we spent the entire day giggling and laughing and getting tickles and kisses. He is working on perfecting his waving, which he started last week at the baseball game and used appropriately to wave bye to Grandma Patty today. He loves to offer his bananas and oatmeal to Bailey at breakfast (from his mouth). Elmo’s YMCA routine (or E-L-M-O rather) makes him smile. He is really getting into reading and grabbed for “Hey! Wake Up!” by Sandra Boynton this morning after breakfast. That is his routine. Since most days I do not have to be dressed and at an office, I can spend the morning with him making fresh food, reading books, and rolling around on his race car rug. Every night his is in bed by 7. During the day, he gets to experience life.

This is how we do things. My hope is that every one else out there, our friends, their friends- the people we care about- will do what is best for their families. I hope they will think rationally and clearly and make decisions on their own families needs, themselves included, and not listen to the extremists.

Kimberly

Harry's Dad turned 32 yesterday.

Harry got a new schoolbus out of the deal. He was slated to get one soon anyway, but after the old one had recently been unsatisfactorily returned from the Body Shop, and not running very well at all, the timing was impeccable.

So now instead of the vintage, temperamental but character-laden BMW that Harry had been riding just about everywhere he and his Dad went, he'll now be riding in style in the Subaru Forrester of his dreams.

Now many of you seem to be quite distraught with this purchase, as these are surely signs that the apocalypse must be upon us:

1. The year of the car doesn't start with a "1980-something"
2. The car wasn't made in Europe (specifically Germany)
3. The brand isn't represented by 3 letters that many claim stand for "Break My Window"
4. The car has functioning A/C and heat (more importantly you don't get one when you ask for the other)
5. The car can be classified as an SUV or a station wagon... Pick your poison

So whatever your opinion, hold it in high regard, but remember this... Now that we can all fit in a car we're pretty certain will make it to the intended destination and home again, we're all better off.

See you soon, in the new McD Family Truckster!

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/0929043limeade1.html
One place we will not be sending Harry to school!

On a side note...Harry attended his first sporting event this weekend! O's vs. Red Sox. He wore his orange pants, but we were definitely in the Red Sox section. Seems the Red Sox section was difficult to avoid. Though we are not really baseball fans, it is somewhat appropriate that Harry's first event be at Camden Yards, since one of our first dates was also there, way back in 1995! Yikes! We are old!

Promise to post photos soon! Harry had a great time, though the applause was a bit overwhelming. Or maybe he was just embarrassed to be wearing orange. "Everyone thinks I'm cheering for the bad team!"

Harry has his second tooth! :-)

Harry's 5 months old today.

It feels like it's been that long since my last post, so hat's off to Kim for keeping things going.

To say that she's been "keeping it going" is THE understatement of the year. Thanks to her, Harry has made it through learning how to roll himself over, sprout his first tooth, and has begun a wonderful campaign into the world of solid food (all organic and predominantly homemade I might add).

Kim is the best mom in the world.

It's also blatantly obvious that Harry's going to continue to be the coolest kid in the world...

We're also quite pumped to know that Bryan & Anna are on their way to parenthood as well! Congrats to them both, and we can't wait for everyone to meet!

It has been a very eventful 5 months, plenty of changes in the McDermott household, but there are certainly more to come.

We'll do our best to keep you all included!

Reefer Madness

We are realizing early that as hard as you try to protect your kids from the evils of the world, you can not always be with them. It is important to teach them good moral values, and to learn right from wrong, and then we must trust them to make the best choices.
Yesterday I picked Harry up from "school" and there it was, right out in the open. Just lying there in his bouncy seat. Barney.
We have done our best to keep Barney out of our home. Those lyrics he sings are maddening. MADDENING! Hopefully Harry will realize on his own that this is not the sort of thing we want him involved with. But then we have another dilemma- do we want him to come to us for things, and be comfortable to not hide them, or do we want to make sure certain things stay out of our home?
And what about escalation? If we allow Barney, what is next? That horrid Fischer Price karaoke machine that his cousin Dominic carries with him?
Or that eerie little bunny of Ledi's that keeps "hop, hop, hopping"?
We welcome your comments.

For more information please see
http://www.jihad.net/
http://pbskids.org/barney/

Today Harry was served home-made, organic bananas for breakfast. It took about 4 seconds to make. His pears were organic, too, but from a jar. I think it took me over a minute to get the jar open. There goes the argument for pre-packaged food being a time saver!

As far as the argument for affordability goes, the pears cost $.59 a jar at My Organic Market. Not sure what the bananas actually cost. More than $.59.
He’ll start avocados on Wednesday and those are $1.25 a pop. But well worth it.

http://www.avocado.org/health-nutrition/scientific-findings.php states the following:

· New Research Shows Avocados Act As Nutrient Booster
· Larger Avocado Serving Recommended For Those With Diabetes
· Avocados: Top-Ranking Fruit Rich In Flavor And Phytochemicals
· Study Reveals Avocados Highest Fruit Source Of Vitamin E
· Incorporating Color to Diet May Add Vitality, Years to Life
· Leading Nutrition Scientists Uncover Additional Benefits of California Avocados
· California Avocados Promote ‘Green Envy’ with Disease-Fighting Phytochemicals and Nutrients
· Phytochemicals Found in Avocados May Help Fight Heart Disease and Cancer
· Avocados Recommended in Latest Diabetes Guidelines
· Lutein In Avocados And Green Vegetables Can Help Prevent Prostate Cancer

Avocados, not just for babies anymore! Check the site for tips on how to store and prepare avocados as well.
One drawback- avocados help with good cholesterol. I read last week that the better your cholesterol, the more mosquitoes love you. Consider yourself warned!

Peek-a-boo! "Where's Harry?---There he is!"

This little game started early on when we were changing Harry's shirts and onesies.
Since we made a game of it, this kid actually likes having clothes pulled over his head!
By the time the shirt comes off, we get to see both dimples.

After I went back to work at PRA 8/17, I had more time to pick Harry up early. With the extra hours gained, I had to find ways to entertain the little guy. He liked to watch his little cloth diapers (or any other blanket) dance around in the air. Soon we would cover his face and Harry would giggle at this peek-a-boo game.

Much to my surprise, when I came home from Krav Maga today (Sunday 9/12) Kevin told me Harry was playing peek-a-boo by himself in his swing. I figured he was just covering his face with his teething blanket. No big deal. But later, I learned this was true- he now initiates "peek-a-boo"! His version is slightly faster than mine, but the game is the same. Harry covers his face and I say "Where's Ha---There he i---Where's Ha---There he---Where's Ha---There he is!" and he giggles as he raises and lowers the cloth. Turns out while he was in his swing he would raise the cloth, then lower it and giggle, then repeat. Kevin was in the kitchen watching him as he entertained himself.

This kid is so fun!

In other news: Pears were started on Thursday. Yum! He gobbles his food down now. May start bananas tomorrow, since I have some good ones. Would prefer avocados or sweet potatoes, but don't want to waste the nice, ripe, organic bananas we have.
New high chair put together. He looks so little in it! But with the mess he is making now, it is much better to use the full size chair. And he is comfy.
Doorway jumper also installed. He doesn't so much jump yet as move in circles and check out the scene---and clean the floor. His little sock was filthy! We may need to increase our Swiffing a bit!

The Sippy Cup.

Harry must have seen these in action. The second the lid closed on his shiny, new, blue and green Gerber sippy cup.gif, Harry grabbed a handle and held the cup to his mouth and began to drink. Ending with a big "Ah!" as though he had just had his first drink after a long race.

He's an old soul. Carl Jung would call it collective unconsciuos. The premise behind a collective unconscious is that we are born with an inherent knowledge gained from those who traveled before us. Perhaps sippy cup ability was not what Jung had in mind, but how else did Harry learn how to do this?

After a water break, we headed outside in the Baby Bjorn to play tag with Bailey- Harry's new favorite thing. When the mood strikes, Bailey runs around like a crazy person, barking and moving in circles. Harry and I chase her, and there is nothing funnier fro him than when Bailey barks. That gets you a big belly laugh! There is nothing funnier for me than when Harry gives you a hoarse little belly laugh, followed up with some giggles.

All of this play was followed up with a new treat: pears! We knew Harry was ready for solids. He can swallow them, he watches us eat our food...alll the stuff he is supposed to do (certainly, he has doubled his birth weight, so that criteria is checked off!). Rice cereal and otameal just were not big hits with him. Honestly, can you blame him? With the introduction of pears to his now less runny cereal, he finished off his whole bowl, this time angry when the spoon was too slow, as opposed to the previous problem of too fast.

They say they grow up fast. Again, harry must have caught wind of this from that whoel collective unconsciuos thing.

I'd like to thank everyone who's been calling, emailing, etc. to ask about the new job. I started at AT&T Government Solutions on Tuesday, and to say the least, it's quite a bit different from my previous endeavors.

For starters, I've gone from what I consider to be one of the smarter, more tech savvy employees of the office, to one more face in the crowd... nature of the beast I guess.

Funny story, one of my college roommates also works in the same building, and even knows my boss... Found that out the Friday before my first day, so it was nice to see a familiar face in the lobby, even though we haven't really seen each other since 1998.

It's been strange going to a new place, meeting all new people, and working on a project that doesn't remotely resemble anything sporting, but I suppose there comes a time when we all have to grow up and, as Ted Leonsis so profoundly noted in one of the last Caps' staff meetings that I attended, "go out and get a real job."

To those of you who remain in the un-real world of sports, just remember... I'll be calling you for comps!


Back to Harry... As this is of course his World.

Talk about development. I swear he's going to be sitting up on his own by this weekend. We've been working on what Kim refers to as "open-leg rockers" where while he's laying on his back, he grabs his feet out in front, and rolls into a seated position (with some help of course). This evening, he decided to practice on his own, but seems not yet to have figured out that he needs to hold on when pushing his feet down.

But he's getting it... Just preparing myself for when I go into his room to check on him, and he's sitting upright.

Can't wait!!!!

Harry got his first tooth!!!

Today is Kevin's last day with the Capitals. I know leaving was not an entirely easy decision for him. Hopefully this decision will be for the best. He has met a lot of fascinating people during his stint with Washington Sports and made many wonderful friends. As have I. And even Bailey for that matter! Where would Bailey be without Festus, Kody, Cooper, little Casey... ? I personally have shared many a happy hour, 4th of July BBQ, marathon (2!), Krav Maga Boot camp, baby shower, bridal shower, cab ride, a couple of 25th birthdays for Aidan, BNL concerts, DMB shows, ...and more weddings than we can count on two hands. Our own wedding would not have been as successful without all of the help and support from everyone who has ever "worked for or been fired by" Susan O'Malley. We've gotten to see people's kids grow up, and will hopefully get to see more of that in the future. We look forward to Harry growing up with them. I know we have led richer, fuller lives because of all of these people. The best part is, most of them do not even work there anymore either, yet we are still close.
At the very least, this will allow him more time with Harry. Speaking of Harry, people always ask how he does at daycare...if this guy could talk...or rather, if we knew for sure what he was actually saying, because he certainly has plenty to say, I am sure he would tell us how happy he is there. His face lights up in the morning when he sees Menike. Her husband goes to work at 4 AM so he can come home early and see the kids. When I went to pick Harry up yesterday, he was sitting on the sofa smiling at me. He was happy to see me, but not desperate to leave. The look on his face said he was the life of the party, and I should come sit on the sofa next to him and hang out. We play and cuddle and laugh when he is home. He is a happy kid. And I am glad he is happy at daycare. He loves to watch the other kids and is more happy when everyone is there (up to 4 of them). We are happy he has other people who care about him so much.
So, on that note, things are going well. And I hope they continue to go well for Kevin at his new job!

A lot of people ask us whether Harry is sleeping through the night. The fact is, he has slept well at night almost from the start. Just luck I guess, or Secrets of the Baby Whisperer. AT this point, he goes to sleep usually by 8, wakes up around 4, and goes back to sleep until we wake him up for "school." The fact that he is sleeping from 8-4 (and has his last bottle slightly before bedtime) may also have a bit to do with his age, the new rice cereal he has been eating, or maybe the new chamomile and lavender bath soap. Or that he sleeps on his tummy now, which I find scary. The SIDS Alliance can give Michael Moore a run for his money when it comes to propaganda. But, since our rooms are so close together (literally, two feet), I can usually hear him making sounds, grunting, kicking the toys in his crib and making the toy dogs bark. This morning I spent a half hour listening to him "singing" from 4:30-5. It was pretty sweet actually. I do have a feeling, though, that once this guy starts talking he's never going to stop!

He has also found both of his feet. They are just the most amazing toy ever. I try to mix things up a bit by putting bright socks on him, or his little mouse rattles. He has also found his hands. They seem to be even more fascinating then his feet. Ever see a cat on catnip? Same thing.

I still have not bothered to learn how to upload the photos from our camera, but I will have Kevin post some of the new cereal shots and the "Roll like a ball/Seal" poses (for you Pilates fans out there!).

As you can see from the photo, Harry turned 4 months old on Sunday!
He had 4 shots at the doctor's on Monday (DTaP, HIB, IPOL and HBV),
he weighed in at 18# 7oz (which I think was 93rd percentile) and is 24 1/2 inches tall (45%).
Obvioulsy his weight is a bit beyond his height, but the doctor is not worried. He is eating appropriately for his age. I stand by the fact that he is just a muscular, solid kid already. He holds his head well, and can hold himself in a standing position for a few minutes. Speaking of eating, he gets to start rice cereal today. I am sure we will have plenty of photos to post! Within the next month, he will get to start fruits and veggies. That should make for more exciting diaper changes!

For a little guy, Harry takes up a lot of room. When the 4 of us travel, it is no easy task. Now that he is in his bigger car seat, it will not even be possible for the 4 of us to travel together. Well, I guess Bailey could share the front seat with someone....
Harry's seat takes up my whole back seat, and Bailey forgets she can't step on him, so she cannot sit in the back. We used to let her sit up front, and I would sit with Harry.
We usually do not drive far with Kevin's car, since it is older than all of us. But, it does have space. VWs, not so much.
So, we need a bigger car. We'd prefer German engineering. We'd also like to not use a lot of gas, and still be able to find parking in the city. We'd like to access the car seat easily. I'd love a whole row for Bailey. Oh, and we need room for the stroller, possibly the jogger, pack and play, luggage, Bailey's bed, a case of water, dry cleaning, a bike rack...And not spend too much money. Oh, and no mini vans, please.
Any suggestions?
If we can get a hybrid, we can use the HOV lanes, for now, even if Harry is not in the car...
Speaking of HOV lanes, I used to feel guilty for counting Harry as my second person. AFter being stuck in traffic with a kid in a rear facing car seat, I now realize they were designed specifically for babies!

And so it goes...

For those of you who haven't heard already, I've officially tendered my resignation with the Washington Capitals after spending just over eight years with the organization. I'll be moving on to become a Systems Administrator under contract to AT&T Government Solutions.

I'd like to thank everyone from Washington Sports & Entertainment, DC Arena Limited Partnership & MCI Center, and especially the Capitals for the amazing opportunities I've been afforded during my varied employment. Some of you have since moved on to bigger & better things, and now it's my turn to leave the nest.

Professionally, I'd like to point out: John Nash and Tara Greco for granting the internship with the Bullets that got me in the door... to Susan O'Malley for giving me a job, even after bearing witness to some embarrassing intern/mascot antics (some people will do ANYTHING to get a job)... to Gordon Armstrong and Ed Thompson for teaching me just about everything I know about computers & networks... to Ann Nicolaides for allowing me to be on her payroll long enough to find out that while I'm not cut out for Marketing, I can still contribute... to George Parr and Michelle Trostle for bringing me back on board to the Capitals Organization after the sale...

It's been an amazing time... my first full year was the first season the Bullets had been to the playoffs in longer than anyone had cared to remember. We got swept by the Bulls, but the energy was intense. Year two was marked by the Caps first-ever trip to the Stanley Cup finals. The NBA Draft, the NBA All-Star game, several NCAA tournaments... Almost too much fun. It doesn't seem like as much of a job when you're surrounded by that kind of excitement and the people who go along with it.

Thanks to my family and friends for putting up with my schedule... more times than I care to count, I'd have to return home early from Thanksgiving Dinner for a game, or work New Year's Eve and/or New Year's Day, but the time has come to move on. I remember thinking as a kid, "...What's it like to have to work on Christmas day?" when we'd watch the Lakers & Celtics play after opening gifts all morning. Who knew that I'd become that guy?

And so, by the end of the month, I will no longer be an employee of professional sports. For the first time in my career, I will have something that vaguely resembles a 40-hour work week...

now that's odd.

Twilight is a special time for many people, but to kids, it is magical. The sky takes on a purple hue, golden light seeps from windows, fireflies glitter in the darkness. In summer, the quiet warmth wraps you like a blanket as the crickets lull you to sleep. It is like Disney World just before closing time.

Last night, twilight worked its magic on Harry. He's still having his teething issues, along with congestion and even a scary nose bleed. But, a short walk around the block and a few versus of twinkle twinkle little star and all was well again. The little guy literally had his eyes wider than I had ever seen them, and his mouth open as he looked all around him. Who knows what he actually saw of it all. Maybe the black leaves from the trees against the darkening backdrop, maybe the sounds of sprinklers or the music of neighbors quietly talking.

To Harry, I think it really was a bit like Disney World, complete with Tinker Bell to calm him, for all I know.

I realize we have not blogged in a while, but I have been at a loss for things to say. We all seem to be in a rhythm.

Last week was Kris & Jenn's wedding. We had a great time, everyone looked beautiful, and Harry finally got to meet his girlfriend Mackenzie, an older woman. We are looking forward to relaxing a bit this weekend.

Kevin has been busy with the Caps, and with the MCI Center parking garage in an attempt to get his damaged car repaired.

I am finishing up my second week at MedImmune Oncology, a company that moves at warp speed. All the more reason to keep going to yoga at the very least once per week. I'm also going to cut back on my coffee. I went for a ride at Seneca Creek State Park today and was reminded by 4 beautiful young deer that I needed to slow down.

Bailey's life is a bit too slow. She is bored. She is not used to being home alone all day, especially after all of the activity we've had in recent months. Hopefully we can alleviate some of her angst this weekend, and maybe get her out for a swim or a hike.

And, the man you have all been waiting to hear about, Harrison. He is as happy as ever. It is always so sweet to see his smiling face every morning. He still has fun in his exersaucer. He is also still having a blast rolling over. He sleeps in so many different positions in his crib. Kevin is not a huge fan of when his appendages hang through the grates though. I think it is cute. It's not as if it is his head. Harry also likes to roll around in the tub. Of course, this usually means a face full of suds and water. As with most things, he shakes it off and goes about his business of relaxing in the tub. I am convinced we need to play some classical music for him, dim the lights, add some candles...I think this must stem from those days when he still used the bath hammock. He's all about lounging in the tub!

Enter... the EXERSAUCER MEGA (in safri print naturally)!!!

Now mind you, he's really not supposed to be in it until he's 4 months old (still a few weeks away for those of you keeping score at home), but it seemed like a good way to continue building neck strength, and something new for him to look at.

As you may have imagined, he absolutely LOVES it!

Head is up, giggling away, figuring out the parts, and also that he can move around in it!

I think the biggest entertainment factor is that he's vertical, and no one's holding on to him... he seems to like the feeling, but I can only imagine this is going to make him really want to run soon (heck with creeping, crawling, etc...)

What a weekend... First one spent at home with nothing to do, in quite a while.  Forgot how involving it is to be at home with the little man.  Also forgot how much fun it is.

It's been mentioned many times here in the past, but to actually get to see someone, a real person, develop before your eyes.  Especially when they absolutely hang on everything you do & say.  Incredible.

3 months old...

It's strange to think about how recent it was that everyone came down for the weekend for Harry's big party... Seems like AGES ago.  Now here we are, growing out of clothes, growing out of carseats, making all sorts of great noises when you're in the room (and they're even more fun while he's in his crib with just the monitor on)...

Kim was finally able to resume her Krav Maga this weekend.  I know this is a huge thing for her, as many of you know, it was a very big part of her life before Harry's arrival, and for her to be able to get back into the ring , literally, is great!  I think if I had to sit out from Hockey for a year, I'd be going nuts (even more) by now.

She also starts her new job at MedImmune today... Hope the cube culture is ready for her!

 

Harry can roll over now! It is official as of Friday (16Jul).
He has rolled over in the past, but it seemed to be by accident.
Now he is all over the place- mostly when he is getting his diaper changed.
 
Next new trick: learning to wave. Stay tuned.

rollingover.jpg

HARRY WEIGHS 17 POUNDS! HE ALMOST NEEDS A NEW CAR SEAT!

So, Harry had his first real baby sitter on Sunday! Both of our mom's have watched him before, and Aidan, but this was the first person we didn't directly know. Of course, Sydney came with the highest of regards from both Tara and Aidan. Oh, and her previous employer was Laura Bush. So, we figure, good enough for the First Lady, good enough for Harry!
In all seriousness, we were told both he and Bailey did fine. I think she even referred to Harry as a "cherub". Her words, not ours, of course. Normally, we would expect nothing less, but the fact is he has been teething for the past couple of weeks. Lots of drool, lots of unsuccessful attempts to get comfortable, and, yes, a little bit of screaming. But just a little. He's a cherub, remember!
Aside from teething a bit early, he is now officially in his 6 month wardrobe. He went to daycare today in his red & white striped romper from baby Gap, given to him by Don & Carol (I've been reading too much vogue recently). It seems like just EXACTLY 1 month ago he was in his 3 month wardrobe. At this rate, I am going to need another job so he can have a whole new wardobe each month.
The most exciting news, though, is he can now pick things up. His favorite object is his Sqwish Ball from Manhatten Toys that Aidan & Josh gave him. He can lift it and roll it and even put it in his mouth, which is convenient since his mouth hurts. Poor little guy. He is a trooper though!

Well, for those of you who do not already know, I have accepted the position of Study Specialist in Oncology at Medimmune, Inc. in Gaithersburg, MD. Yes, it is a hike. No, I will not have to travel as much. It all kind of evens out.
Though I was very happy at PRA International, this new position seems to be what is best for all of us. It is a good career move for me, I will be home every evening and Harry is happy in daycare. He is a very alert little boy and we really want for him to be around other kids and be active during the day. Although, when I say this move is good for everyone, it may take Bailey some time to adjust. I realized today that I think Bailey has started to get attached to Harry. She now sleeps under his cradle (as I expected she eventually would) and when she went with me to drop him off at daycare she was very displeased that I was leaving him somewhere. (She is sound asleep now and dreaming, so I guess the stress of the situation has worn off).
Another plus to this new job, we will get our extra bedroom back since I will not need a home office. If you don't mind sleeping on a futon, give us a call!

It's been quite a while since I've posted, and rest assured I've been reminded of that fact regularly.

Quite a holiday weekend, and the travel that seems to typify our family certainly accompanied it.

We started off the weekend with Harry's first visit from his Aunt Meghan. She was back on the East coast for the first time in quite a while, and was able to make great overnight stop on her way to visit the Magoo's in Ocean City MD.

Then the driving began!

We headed north to visit with Kelly & Pete in South Plainfield NJ, to finally make it to their annual July 4th celebration for the first time. Met up with Kim & John as well, and met a bunch of Kelly & Pete's friends... then back on the road to head to Wildwood for a relaxing weekend with the Wiley/Decker/Reis clan.

Harry spent his first afternoon in the Jersey Shore sun. Thankfully, he doesn't seem to have inherited my complexion. Poor Dom Jr. got his hotdog stolen by the seagulls, and just couldn't take it anymore.

Headed home on Monday, and decided to take a "shortcut." Unfortunately, not such a good idea. Needless to say, 6 hours later, all of the relaxation from the weekend was suitably out the window. Mental note, don't think so much when you're on the road... it'll get you into trouble.

Overall, a wonderful weekend and a great time with everyone! Summer's a busy time, and many more jam-packed weekends to come, hopefully I can do a better job keeping everyone in the loop!

Things Harry Can Do Now

Sleep in his cradle without a car seat
Smile on command when you take his picture
Imitate you when you stick out your tongue
Roll his tongue (which I cannot do)
Use a "quiet voice" when Daddy is sleeping

Things Bailey allows Harry to do

Touch her for longer than 1 second (we are up to about 12 seconds now)

JUST THE FACTS
Thursday, April 22,2004
Age: 2 months old
Height: 22 1/2 inches (40%)
Weight: 13 lbs. 6.2 oz. (90%)
Head: 16 1/2"
Eyecolor: Unknown
Haircolor: Yet to be decided
Clothing Size: 3-6 months
Favorite Movie: Baby Neptune
Favorite Toy: The fishes on his swing
Favorite ACtivity: taking a bath

Harry currently eats up to 36 ounces of Isomil per day.
This is normal. He doesn't eat when he is not hungry, and does not always finish his bottle. He is allowed to eat up to 40 ounces by the time he is 4 months old. It is possible he has had a growth spurt and may taper off.

What's next? Harry likes his bath so much, we are going to take him swimming and see how that goes. He will officially start lessons in the fall!

I have been concerned that Harry had not started reading yet. After all, he was approaching 8 weeks, and the books say you should read to them...The boy seemed to prefer bouncing to reading though. And then we became even worse parents and plopped him in front of his Baby Einstein DVDs for up to 30 minutes a day. I am happy to report that he has finally taken on more literary interests. His favorites so far are Hugs and Kisses, from Uncle Kris & Aunt Jenn (no relation, of course) and Rainbow Fish from his grandmom. Both books are large, so you can block out the rest of the world around him. Hugs and Kisses is about a beagle Casey's First Visit 001.jpg named Hugs who wonders around looking for the best kisses. Rainbow Fish teaches about sharing. It has pages of deep blues and purples with shiny scales. (As many of you may know, Harry is a big fan of the fish on his swing).So, it looks like Harry will be literate after all, and pretty soon he will be reading, on his own, all of those GREAT books everyone has given him!

NEW FEATURE ADDED!!!

Doing a little light reading during the ol' lunch hour about what's happening in the "blogsphere" (nice geeky name for the folks who publish weBLOGs like Harry's World), and noticed that there was an interesting feature that I had not previously enable on the site... LEAVE A COMMENT

So, in the interest of this compendium becoming a communal effort among those whom Harry has had the pleasure of meeting, and those he can look forward to meeting in the future, I've turned the comments part on.

Here's how it works:

You'll notice an link below each post that indicates if any comments have been left. Click on it, and you can read what someone else had to say, and even Post one of your own. If you do decide to post, please take a second to register so that your name comes up (I can honestly say that I don't seem to be getting any bad emails based on my subscription to this service, so I really do think it's safe in terms of SPAM) with your comments.

One request... please keep it civil. There are kids who read this, and I'd also like for Harry to be able to one day enjoy it on his own.

Enjoy!

Interesting article about Shearwaters.shearwater.jpg
It seems that female Shearwaters vary the amount of food they bring to their young, depending upon their cries, whereas the male Shearwaters always bring exactly the same amount of food. So, I guess Kevin is not just being cheap by only bringing Harry 4 ounces of formula regardless of how hungry he is. Kevin just can't tell how hungry he is - it is inherent!

Well, I guess everyone read the website yesterday, because I have received several inquiries about how Harry did in daycare. I am happy to report he survived with flying colors, and is back today for round two!
Today he had a little blond girl with dimples there with him, Susannah. She is almost 1, and was a preemie. They were about the same size! She was very sweet, and also gentle with him.
I think it is too early for separation anxiety, so I am hoping Harry's behavior is just a fluke, but he seemed a bit clingy today and last night. Sure, I picked him up from daycare only to ditch him again to visit that other Harry (Potter, the one with the movie), but he can't have felt neglected at this age. Nonetheless, he was pretty much up all night last night. Kevin and I slept more than he did, at least, but the kid was awake from at least 2:30-7. Every now and then he would check to see if we were still there, then go about his business. Hopefully tonight he will be more confident.
Tomorrow he gets to stay home.

Harry's first day of daycare is today. He is there for 3 hours, maybe 4 tomorrow.
Friday will be his first full day.

He was asleep when we arrived, and only the provider, Menike, and her adorable little nephew were there. He looked to be 2 or 3. No other kids this week, so hopefully they will have some bonding time.

It is nice to have the little break, and I am not too anxious about him being there. Of course, I have many irrational fears that I won't mention...I'll let you know later how this turns out!

Well, Harry's big day has come and gone, as have a multitude of family & friends. The three of us would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of you who were able to make and also to everyone else who was certainly here in spirit (especially those who came in straight from vacation, briefly showed, but retired early due to illness)! We had an absolutely wonderful day, and it was even better that we were able to share it with you.

As Kim and I were both carried away with seeing everyone, and introducing you all to our Harry, we neglected to take nearly as many photos as we had anticipated. I'll try to get the ones we do have posted as soon as possible!

Couldn't have asked for a nicer day... Perhaps a bit more shade for the follicly challenged, but we don't want to be too picky. I hope everyone was able to enjoy the live entertainment as well. Based on the feedback we did receive, we'll assuredly plan our next gathering around the neighboring church's tent revival schedule.

A big thanks must go out to Becky & Allen for supplying some incredible homemade desserts, Kayla's stromboli, and the extra chairs... it would've been tough to sit around all afternoon & drink frozen margaritas without your help!

Speaking of which, also a big thanks and lots of free plugs for the Margarita Man (or men...Dave & Glenn) of Baltimore & Annapolis for the chilled concoctions!!! Please give them a call or check out their website if you're ever in the mood for frozen beverages in the area!!!

Thanks also to Ethel & Toni for the much-loved handmade chocolate moons & stars and Billy's brownies. Bailey seems to have gotten her paws on a portion of the candies, and has reported no ill-effects so far.

Sincere thanks to 2 of the honored guests yesterday, that while we were busy making bottles we were unable to formally recognize... Harry's "God-parents" Bryan & Anna McDermott. We hope that we didn't get you into too much trouble by keeping you from the Yates reunion in Ohio, and are so glad that you were able to make it. You have some very big shoes to fill, based on Bill & Ethel's god-parenting of Kim all these years, but there's no one else we'd rather have! Thanks so much for everything!

Finally we'd like to recognize the guests en masse. Thank you all for coming to see us, spending your weekend on our behalf, and for the warmth and positive energy to get Harry's life rolling. It's wonderful to be able to enjoy you all so much!

I know the Baby Einstein DVDs state on the covers that they are for 1 year and up (Except one of the Baby Newton's, which is 9months+), but if that is the case, why does Harry stop everything to coo and gurgle, and kick and bounce when they are on? And then burst into tears when the DVD ends? It is possible that they have overstated the age criteria. More than likely, he is just absurdly advanced for his age.

Now, I have noticed that Harry has pointy ears. I am not a Trekkie by any means, but isn't that a Vulcan thing? Aren't they very brilliant minds? Or just logical folks?
Hmmm....Google shows me the following:

In the fictional Star Trek universe created by Gene Roddenberry, the Vulcan race originates on planet Vulcan which orbits either 40 Eridani or Epsilon Eridani (cites differ). The surface of Vulcan is much warmer of that of Earth as the planet is located around a red giant star. The planet's atmosphere is thinner than that of Earth's, as a result humans tend to tire out more quickly. The Vulcans are most noted for their attempt to live by reason and logic and to suppress all emotional influence by living lives of rigid emotional self-control through meditative techniques and training of mental discipline. The main external characteristics that distinguish Vulcans from humans are arched eyebrows and pointed ears, along with a slight greenish skin tint due to their copper-based blood.

Well, the pointy ear thing was right. And he does seem to be rather logical. Something about mental discipline...His skin is not green though. I am really not sure where I am going with this. Maybe too much of Jimmy Buffet talking about Cameron getting logical and being a Vulcan in disguise.

I know, I know! 3 Blogs in one day! It is a new record!

This one is important though.

Now that Harry is becoming more aware of his environment, we would like to request that no one contact us between the hours of 9PM and 9AM, unless it is an emergency. The phone wakes Harry up, and sometimes us. Oh, that is 9:00 EASTERN TIME :-)

Not that we don't love you all, we could just use some quiet time!

I want to buy Harry a little T-shirt that says "Don't stick your finger in my mouth, please." That's a lot of words, so we may have to add "cont. on back" in small font.

WHY DO PEOPLE THINK IT IS OKAY TO STICK THEIR DIRTY, GERM INFESTED HANDS IN HUMANS WHO LACK FULLY DEVELOPED IMMUNE SYSTEMS????

The worst part is, it is usually strangers who do this. Why would anyone do this? Let alone, why would you decide it is okay to stick your hands in the mouth of a child you do not even know?

I had to forcibly remove someone's finger from Harry's mouth just the other day. I made several polite attempts to say "Please, do not do that," but they seemed to have gone unheard. Next time, I think I will say "If you continue to do that you owe me $80 for medicine and need to come to my house a minimum of 4 times a day and listen to him scream while we give him medicine for the fungal infection you have caused."

It is not just Harry either. I have witnessed other people feed toddlers. Again, this is usually strangers. And usually older female strangers who have children of their own.

At parties, we put up "Don't Feed the Beagle" signs. Do we need buttons that read "Don't Feed the Toddler"? The best part is when people do actually ask. Usually this will take place while the donut is in the child's mouth. "Is it okay if I give her this?" why wouldn't it be okay to mess up the child's nutritional balance for the day and load her up with sugar? Or better yet, peanut butter sandwiches. Yeah, do that. You can be the first to find out if the child goes into anaphylaxis from a peanut allergy.

Please excuse my venting today. Perhaps the broken sleep is getting to me. Or, perhaps people are just stupid.

It's been a while since I've posted anything. My apologies for getting everyone addicted to the site, and then slacking off. I'm glad everyone seems to enjoy reading about Harry and our interactions with him and his world. It's nice to get so much feedback from so many different people who seem to be paying much more attention to all of this than I ever suspected they would.

Since I think my last post, we've had plenty of visitors, and done some visiting of our own both locally and on a few out-of-state junkets. Harry's dealt with all of it extremely well, some might note that he's done better than his dad on some of them...

It's also been incredible to see and enjoy everyone's reaction to him. Seeing people that we haven't in a while who absolutely gush over him, people we've just met who are intent on showering him with gifts (see "My first fishing rod & reel outfit"). It's just a great feeling.

As for Harry's World, it seems to be growing more every day. Today, he and I got to spend almost the entire day together while Kim finally got a well-deserved chance to sleep in, and run some errands in the afternoon. Nothing like a rainy Saturday afternoon to spend the day kicking back.

I got to see firsthand a lot of the amazing things that Kim gets to see every day. His cool little smile that seems to take up more of his face every time I see it, the subtle differences in his cries throughout the day as he makes a valiant attempt to communicate with us, Bailey getting more and more used to his sounds and movements - to the point that she even gives a bit of a sniff to him when we're all on the couch together.

You can really tell that he's noticing things. He sees things. He hears things. He reacts to things. As Kim mentioned, he actually was surprised to hear Bailey bark at the mailman today, and let out a full-body cry that made certain that we'd notice that he's not fond of Bailey's louder side... Amazing.

I suspected it would happen soon. For a while now, Harry has been starting to stir when there is a loud noise, like the phone ringing or a door slamming. Today, while lying on his changing table staring at the magical dog and bear that float from the sky and (we imagine) talk to him, the mailman dropped the days post and Bailey ran off barking (something she started to do only since Harry arrived, mind you). Poor baby - arms and legs started kicking and he let out a scared little cry. Sure, I was sad for him, but it was awesome to see his first extreme reaction to something. Yeah, he reacts to his Zantac, but this one was more emotional. And it was nice to be able to comfort him and make him feel better. I thik he is started to get to know us a little better, too.

Well, it's true. Harry is starting to grow out of some of his clothing. So far, it is mostly the umbilicare onesies and 1 or 2 other newborn outfits. But soon, he will be in an entire new wardrobe. How will we recognize him? We have only known him in the same few outfits! Wouldn't it be odd if we all had a COMPLETELY new wardrobe every few weeks?
Also odd, in a few years, it is likely a new person will have his clothes. And not one or two pieces mind you, but ALL of them! Imagine if after you got your new wardrobe every 3 months, the old one went to the new intern at work, or a neighbor?..

It’s Kim again.

Just back from Harry’s first trip to the shore. We drove up to Cape May Sunday for a change of scenery, and to visit the Wiley/Decker contingent. The weather was not the best, but it was brisk, and it was nice to see everyone.

Don’t know whether it was the salt air, or the fact that Harry screamed his little head off for two hours each night during “cranky hour” (he was pissed that we forgot his Grateful Dead tunes), but he was going 8 ½ hours at a stretch without eating, and sleeping for 7 ½. I actually think Bailey was more work at Harry’s age than Bailey is. With Harry, we change his diaper, feed him, burp him, and he is back asleep for 3 hours. With Bailey, EVERY 3 hours we had to throw a coat over our pajamas and take her outside. We also had to balance her food so she did not throw up. As for diapers…if we left her in the cage too long…UGH!

I also just picked up some non-digital photos of Harry. They span the course of a month. It is strange to see just how little he was such a short time ago. It is also weird to see his umbilical cord! Now, he seems like such a baby instead of a newborn. He also looks a lot less like a glow worm!

Another posting from Kim today:


Apparently Harrison is a Deadhead. Fascinating. I hardly recall listening to them while pregnant. I was too lazy to track down a CD, so we listened to mostly Top 40. Is it possible to just be born with an ear for music? I, myself, am tone deaf, so he obviously does NOT take after me.

Harry is a great baby (I am sticking to that). He usually cries when he is hungry or when his diaper is slightly damp---or when we are stuck in bumper to bumper traffic. All of these reasons are understandable. But, when the 9 o'clock hour hits, it is meltdown time! My friend Kelly's mom tells me 7-9 is a common cranky time (maybe that is why happy hour coincides?). She agrees with my other friend Molly. Molly's friend has a theory that whatever the mother was doing at this time while pregnant later affects the temperament of the child. The theory makes sense, but I was either in bed asleep or watching TV, too sick to do anything else.

Regardless of the reason, 9 o'clock is cranky hour. Nothing could soothe this child. One day, I decided we would dance, and there was nothing to dance to at the time except The Grateful Dead's Closing show at Winterland from the late 70s. 30 seconds in, the kid was asleep. We checked to see if it was just the dancing. Nope. We could even sit and listen and achieve instant quiet. It was not music in general either. He does like the sound of waves crashing, but is not a fan of Neil Diamond. Mozart does nothing for him. Bach and Beethoven are better, but still not The Dead. We have yet to experiment with Phish. He does like to bounce, as Tiggers do, so I do have high hopes that we will expand our music library. One thing I do know for sure, I am not leaving the house without tossing a Dead CD in the diaper bag. Would it be too strange to add a Steel Your Face sticker to his stroller?

In the interest of all things being equal, I (Kim) have decided to add some of the journal entries to www.harrymcd.com.

I thought this would be easy. Harry is an active boy. Very alert. Plenty going on. Lots to talk about, right?

Besides, I started Maryland as a Journalism major, moved on to English...Kevin is a computer guy. Do you see where I am going with this? This should be a snap for me!
Yeah. Anyway.

So, he is sleeping again. He will probably wake up and eat. And then sleep again. He ate 2 ounces at 10 AM, but is usually logging between 3.5-6.
Yup. He's eating. And sleeping.

Yup.

Exciting.

Right.

Actually, it is not that bad. The sleeping, for instance, is our project. When he first came home, he did not sleep at all during the day. He is much better at that now, but there are still no set nap patterns. So, this is what we are working on: two long naps instead of many quick ones. We would like to achieve this without disturbing his current 5-7.5 hours at night. Ideally, we would even like to improve upon that! Don't want to be greedy though...

Yesterday we had art class. We painted foot prints, but did not have the patience for hand prints. Harry only wanted to cooperate for so long. Unfortunately, that included the time needed to clean his foot, which is still a bit blue.

We also played with Owen from next door. Owen is 13 months old, so at this point they do not have too much in common. Owen was very helpful while he was here though. I think I lost another pound helping Ceri (his mom) follow him around, and I also got a better idea of what we need to baby proof. We may need to have him back over for a second run through once we put some of our new safety products in place!

Harry also made it out to two stores yesterday. It was not that bad. He was quiet the whole time.

In fact, most things are not that bad anymore. The first three weeks were rough. It was difficult to shower (again, he didn't sleep during the day) and hard to eat anything before 2PM. I can do both now! I can even run errands, accomplish tasks, socialize...Life is MUCH better. Still, carrying nothing but a couple of cups of coffee out of Starbuck's yesterday all by myself seemed very foreign. I actually felt very independent, and also very CAPABLE! Obviously, the independence comes from not carrying a baby everywhere, but it is also nice to be 35 pounds lighter and have more energy to drive, myself to the store and carry things. It has been a long time since I could really do that! I am looking forward to the person I will be 35 more ponds from now! Hopefully, I will be the kind of person that can make it to Krav Maga camp in August!

Another week under our belts, and Harry moves into his second month of existence.

Patty & Les came into town this weekend to visit, and we were able to step out for our first night alone since April 21st, for Nate & Audrey'swedding at the Mount Vernon Inn. Couldn't have asked for a nicer day. The Inn was also nice enough to crank the A/C up to keep the beer cold. Nate was on top of his game throughout, even with the unexpected paparazzi. I'm doubting that the happy couple heard anything that was being said, but it was a great ceremony. Heading inside to cooler temps was then the order of the day, where the party really began.

The Parrs, Potters & Wagners were all in attendance, rounding out all that's left of the Caps' office these days. Kim was in fine form, and did a wonderful job demonstrating the effects of Twin-Label Technology. A wonderful time was had by all, and even Canada got a piece of the action.

As for Harry, a weekend of visits and visitations. Patty & Les were on hand to babysit while mom & dad had a night out, and was then fortunate enough to visit with Kris & Jenn later on. Thankfully, her ring showed up, apparently right where she left it. Jenn wouldn't let us leave without some more Cheryl's Cookies sent in by her parents... big thanks to the Kersanty's!!!

Harry's definitely growing. He's easily doubled his food intake in the last week (which by association obviously also doubles output), and he definitely has clothes that don't quite fit anymore. Still sleeping very well at night, very thankful for that, and I swear he's learning more everyday.

So many things going on right now that will certainly effect things in the future. Harry's circle of friends is growing every day. I can't wait for him to REALLY be able to meet everyone. There's nothing that makes you happier than others showing interest in what's going on in your life. Even if it's feigned interest, it's nice of them to look like they care. We even tossed around a few "how funny would it be..." thoughts for 10 or 15 years from now, for Harry to meet up with kids that he new when he was an infant... for him to finally meet his Uncle Elwyn... to be able to catch up again.

It's gonna be great.

Well I don't know about you, but I'm ready for him to start learning things. I'm ready for him to be able to sit up, to crawl, walk, run, sprint, skate, throw, catch, calculate, ponder, consider, debate, critique, matriculate....

Oops. a bit ahead of myself there.

I had heard from a lot of people, that the newborn stages and early infancy are characterized by your child amounting to a non-reactive being whose primary concerns are eating, sleeping, and consuming diapers (though not necessarily in that order).

I seem to have convinced myself that he's already plotting against me... That the vast amounts of formula that tend to drip down his chin and soak whatever cool outfit he's got on are deliberately dribbled just to see if I'm paying attention... That he knows not only exactly what he's crying about, but also explicitly how to request what it is that he feels he needs. He's got it all down. He's just testing me... Seeing how far he can push me until I give up and call in Kim to take over because I obviously cant' handle myself. But I'm onto him.

The little stinker.

More and more, it's looking like it's turning out to be a historical summer to have been born. Aside from all of the ridiculous things going on over in the Middle East with our military and their myriad of newfound enemies thanks to some knuckleheads with a camera and an internet connection (ah technology!), the homefront seems significant enough to me. The Cicadas are invading the DC area. While our yard & neighborhood have been spared for the most part so far, I've heard literal horror stories from friends and co-workers alike about infestations that you'd think only movies were made from. The aforementioned Smarty Jones has captured the second leg of the Triple Crown in what could rightfully be called "convincing fashion." An interesting time to be alive.

Makes you wonder where we'll all be the next time the Cicadas come out. Which brings me back to how I'm ready for Harry to be able to do things. Maybe not run all over the house yet, because we still need to baby-proof things, but to at least begin the real learning process. To be able to share all of the absolutely useless knowledge that I've built up over the years. To be able to make up the silly stories to explain the unexplainable like only parents can...

I can't wait for that!!!

Happy 3 weeks Harrison!!!

Turns out that the baby's cry interpreter thing has been taken care of. They call it a Pediatrician. Who knew? We've been diagnosed with Acid Reflux and been properly medicated for a few days now, and you can already see the difference.

For example, Harry's already sleeping for six (6) hours at a time at night already. Yes you read that correctly... 6. Last night was actually closer to 6 1/2 or 7. May I be the first to explain that we're certainly not bragging, just hoping to continue on with the luck we've been granted thus far.

Kim's fully convinced that by the end of the week he's going to be sitting up in his crib, and reciting Mathematical Theorems. So maybe that's a little optimistic, but yuo've got to admit, the kid's a bit ahead of himself. Of course it's obviously from the superior gene pool provided by Kim & Myself.

Not to look a gift horse in the mouth, but all that sleeping at night does come with a price. Harry seems to have already figured out, among other things, that daytime is playtime, and certainly is NOT naptime. Sure things could be worse, and if him being awake all day so he sleeps all night is our biggest problem right now, we're in pretty good shape.

Speaking of Horses, everyone should keep an eye out for Grandpa Magoo on the NBC broadcast of the Preakness Stakes this weekend on NBC. He'll be accompanying Governor Ed Rendell to Pimlico to cheer PA's own Smarty Jones to victory in the second leg of the Triple Crown. Bet early & bet often!!!

Ah yes... falling behind already.

Another busy weekend in the McDermott household. Off to the Derkatch's baby shower on Saturday afternoon, and Kim's first Mother's Day on Sunday. A gorgeous weekend, other than the heavy showers in the evening, and it was great to be able to enjoy it.

Hope to have some more photos posted soon from the last week.

For the budding inventors/entrepreneurs in the audience, if someone could quickly come up with a few inventions, I'm sure they would certainly be appreciated and quite lucrative...

1 - Baby's Cry Interpreter

To easily decode the subtle differences between:

I'm Hungry
I'm Tired
I'm Wet
You people obviously have no idea what you're doing. Take me back to the hospital NOW.

Production Note: perhaps version 2 would include a 2-way mechanism for responding to such communications.

2 - Gastroinestinal Tract Reliever

For the immediate relief of gas caused wholly or inpart by bottle feeding and/or related sustainence & medications.

You could make millions. You WOULD make millions.

Either way, Harry's the coolest thing that's ever happened to us.

This weekend will be Kim's first Mother's Day.

Okay wiseguy, not her first one ever, but her first as a mother.

Regardless, I took yesterday off to help out with running to the doctor's office, both for Kim and for Harry, and got to spend the entire day with both of them. I would like to publicly acknowledge a new-found understanding of how hard it must be to be at home all day, every day, with a newborn.

A few examples...

First order of the day was Harry's 2-week checkup and HepB immunization. Nothing too dramatic here, as the past times I've gone to the pediatrician office, it's been the 2 of us and things have gone well. This time, Harry seems to have discovered his new talent of impersonating a garden sprinkler (a very convincing one at that), but beyond that uneventful. Everything checked out as normal.

After a quick run back home for a bit, we headed back out for Kim's appointment. Rather than head all the way back home, Harry and I decided to swing through REI, and try to get a few things at Target. May I offer that I would much rather deal with the morning/afternoon DC commute and the associated tourists buses than the lunchtime stay-at-home crowd. Around here, they seem to be consumed by themselves and their purposes so much so that one woman even had it plastered on her bumper... IT'S ALL ABOUT ME. Whatever lady... learn how to drive.

So we finally get to Target. Lots of grins and pointing at Harry's perch on my chest (credit: Baby Bjorn), to the extent that I thought something was wrong, but then remembered he's a newborn and old ladies like babies. After many repeated laps, we find most of the items we're looking for, or at least acceptable substitutes, and make our way back to pick Kim up.

The return trip is much quicker, until we get to the schmucks making a very lame attempt to direct traffic around the construction happening in the parking lot we're trying to enter. This consumes at least 10 minutes of what turns into a 20 minute trip. Ah well... back home for a walk.

Bailey's ready, and we head out. My frustrations with the day so far are clearly annoying the hell out of Kim, and we cut this walk short. She of course deals with this every day, and to up the ante, does it on her own. Back home to try to relax a bit, and enjoy each other's company.

To top it off, it's a gorgeous day outside, and we both fell that we need to get back out of the house, and enjoy it while it's there. Everyone (including Bailey this time) back in the car to head to Old Town for another walk.

Much better this time. I chalk it up to the evening commute folks and VA tourists being easier to deal with than the ME-FIRST homebodies from earlier in the afternoon. Great walk around town to sufficiently tire out everyone. Made for a significantly calmer evening.

Harry finally drifted off to sleep around the time we were watching the anti-climactic Friends finale. He woke up on time for his 9:30 feeding, but then proceeded to sleep through until his 4am. Some quick math puts that at about a 6-hour sleep. Not quite the entire night, but the closest we've had so far. BTW, yesterday was his 2-week birthday... not too shabby. Hope it lasts.

So with Kim's first mother's day right around the corner, I now have a much deeper understanding of the level of energy and emotional involvement that is consumed by her day-to-day. Luck me, I get to go to work for the day, and come home later. I guess I never really got all of that.

And I'm guessing that was an easy day.

What a weekend.

Harry's first road trip was up to Philadelphia on Saturday to celebrate his cousin's first communion. Kayla was in all of her glory, and seemed to be having a wonderful time. It was great to be able to see everyone.

Contrary to poular belief, Kim has once again proven herself to be a superwoman, by defying doctors' suggestions, as well as the status quo, for mothers who have recently had a C-Section. She made the trip, hit the social calls, and had a great time doing it. Not that she wasn't tired afterwards as we all were, but it just goes to show some of the great resiliency that she's got. Not that you woudl have noticed, but she's certianly one who's not big on begin told what she's not able to do. ;^)

Harry was great as well. Made the drive up like a champ, survived the gorgeous day even with the strong breeze, and made it home... about 97 diaper changes later. Hey, you've got to be good at something.

A highlight of the trip home were the many calls on the strong showing and subsequent victory of PA's own Smarty Jones at the 130th running of the Kentucky Derby!

Sunday was busy as well. Harry made his first appearance at Costco in his 100% fashionably functional Baby Bjorn carrier. Huge thanks again to Sue & Anna for one of the best dad gifts so far! The best was passing by another couple in the store with the same getup... smiles and thumbs-up all around.

On a side note, Kim and I have been discussing "milestones" lately. It would seem that Harry should be having many, many more fabulous firsts over the next few weeks/months/years, but it also seems that some of them are coming a bit early (WARNING: clear case of Proud Pops syndrome here):

Day 1 - Smiled
Day 5 - Noticed frames, mobile… (should be Day 6-10)
Day 6 - woke up happy and gurgling, started to roll over
Day 7 - definitely has been ooo-ing and ahhhing for a while...(didn't know it was a milestone)
Day 10 - Rolled over from stomach to back

From what I understand, we're running a bit ahead of schedule on some of these, so we can only hope that trend will continue.

I must apologize for the lack of photos in the last few entries, but I will be certain to post all of the pictures from the party later tonight. Thanks to everyone for all of the compliments on the site!