Not An Alien

on September 15, 2011
in All Posts

I can’t remember when I last bought cheese other than goat cheese.  I love goat cheese so much.  Cheddar just doesn’t cut it!

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In the mix:

 

Millet

Leftover green beans

Carrots

Holy Deliciousness Hummus

Goat Cheese

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Lunch was very quick.  The green beans were leftovers, the carrots were raw, and the millet only took 15 minutes or so to prepare, using this method.

 

Thank goodness lunch was quick – I’m on deadline for a freelance article!  I had finished 2/3 of it when I realized it was time to leave for a coffee date with my friend Cindi.  It was a nice mental break.

 

Plus, I really wanted a Pumpkin Spice Latte.

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Cindi read my post on Planning Parenthood and shot me an e-mail – “Wanna meet up to discuss parenting?”  Cindi gave birth to little Molly about three months ago, and I haven’t had a chance to meet her yet.  She was fun, alert, and so quiet (Cindi is using the Baby Wise method, in case anyone is interested!).

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One of the disadvantages to being an only child is that I have little child care experience.  I’ve only held three or four babies ever, never babysat, and only fed one baby one time.  Sometimes I get nervous around kids because I’m so inexperienced, but I’m slowly learning that they aren’t aliens – they’re just little people.  Who would’ve thought?!

 

Fun fact:  I’ve never changed a single diaper.  I watched Cindi do it, and it didn’t seem too hard.  I just couldn’t believe that Starbucks didn’t have a changing table!

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Ah, Molly.  You’re a good girl.  Wanna come home with me?

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Back to that freelance piece!  The clock is ticking.

{ 132 comments }

 

  • Caitlin @ Cake with Love September 15, 2011, 3:48 pm

    Millet and goat cheese are a match made in heaven!! That baby is adorable!!

  • colleen September 15, 2011, 3:52 pm

    may i recommend you and hubby babysit a few times – maybe children of various ages if possible – to get a feel for babies and kids in general.

    • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 3:52 pm

      haha yea but now that i’ve admitted how inexperienced i am, who’s going to let me?!?!! lol

      • colleen September 15, 2011, 4:09 pm

        I would! You have to start somewhere – that’s what was told to me. If you know CPR, First Aid, and know to hold their head and neck for support you are set. Everything else comes with trail and error and practice. Lots of practice and asking questions.

        • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 4:12 pm

          Ah you’re so sweet. And trusting 🙂

        • Eliza September 16, 2011, 2:43 am

          I am actually a nanny (which, I would totally recommend as a part time job to anyone studying aswell or something, it is so flexible) and I love it!! You get all the good kid experiences and not so much the bad ones. I did work for a bit of a crazy family when I was a nanny in The US, sorry American people, I know most of you are pretty normal (I am Australian)… but generally it is an awesome experience. Anyway, this is besides the point, I am not suggesting you become a nanny or anything, but I think you would be a great mum Caitlin, and generally kids are pretty tough. I was once putting a little boy to bed and I accidently knocked his head on a doorway, I was so worried, but when I mentioned it to his mum, she just laughed it off.. he was fine too 🙂
          Anyway, I cannot wait to read about baby HTP!

      • Sana September 15, 2011, 5:57 pm

        If 15 and 16 year olds are popping out kids, you will be just fineeee 🙂

    • Alanna September 15, 2011, 6:49 pm

      i agree!!
      if neighbours trusted me to babysit toddlers at age 13 I’m sure they will trust you too, no matter how lacking in experience you are….in my experience the parents are usually just happy to get away from the dang babies for a night, they couldn’t care less if a few things went wrong while they were gone.

      • Tricia September 16, 2011, 1:13 am

        I started babysitting on my own at like 12. My first babysitting job was someone my sister was renting a room from. they were 4 kids 5 and under. no one told me the kids were lactose intolerant and there was milk in the house. I survived and the parents just laughed and the parents apologized for not telling me! Best advice HTP ask about any allergies before the parents leave!

    • HTPDad September 15, 2011, 9:21 pm

      Babies are hard to break.

      • Eliza September 16, 2011, 2:44 am

        haha HTP I bet you are keen for a baby HTP too!

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen September 15, 2011, 3:55 pm

    Don’t hate on cheddar cheese. I made some cheddar cheese grits the other day that we’re pretty amazing if I do say so myself 😉
    Goat cheese is pretty damn delicious though!

  • allison @ thesundayflog September 15, 2011, 3:56 pm

    sophie! (that’s the giraffe). my niece has 2 of them and loves them. i think the sound like dog toys, but apparently babies go wild for them. such a cutie that little girl is!

  • Casey @ Pocket Full of Sunshine September 15, 2011, 3:57 pm

    What a cutie. I really want a baby someday in the not-too-distant future, but I still see them as aliens a little bit. I should fix that. 🙂

  • Taylor @ Crumbs Don't Count September 15, 2011, 4:03 pm

    I actually haven’t really EVER held a newborn…Yikes, better practice on someone ELSES kid before I have my own!

    I HAVE, however, changed a diaper, and I assure you…you aren’t missing anything special! Yucko

  • Claire @ Live and Love to Eat September 15, 2011, 4:03 pm

    I made your hummus last night and it was delish – didn’t get creamy enough though because I didn’t feel like pulling out the food processor. Ate it on socca with goat cheese and spinach – delish!

  • Laurie September 15, 2011, 4:03 pm

    Oh what a cutie pie! Don’t worry Caitlin, it will come natural to you. I was inexperienced too when my son was born, but with a little help from Mom and Mother in law, me and husband was a pro at changing diapers in no time!

  • Corrie Anne September 15, 2011, 4:04 pm

    Hehehe. The picture of the giraffe and coffee is so cute. I love the title post. I keep giggling to myself about it. I wouldn’t be soooo sure. Just kidding. I don’t have kids yet. Just younger sibs!! 🙂

  • Bridget September 15, 2011, 4:06 pm

    Molly is the cutest baby I have ever seen. Case closed.

    • Cindi September 15, 2011, 4:16 pm

      I think so too 🙂

  • Sarah @ See Sarah Eat September 15, 2011, 4:08 pm

    I’m an only child too! I have actually been volunteering in the nursery at our church once a month so that babies and diapers won’t be such a scary thing to me someday 🙂

  • Crystal September 15, 2011, 4:08 pm

    I’ve babysat for a bajillion babies and kids, and I still sometimes feel nervous around them. I think when you have your own, it probably becomes less scary, at least I hope so. Have you tried goat cheddar or goat gouda? Also delicious.

  • Leanne (Bride to Mrs.) September 15, 2011, 4:08 pm

    What a cute little princess <3 I love the last picture of her!

    Also, what a great friend to ask you out to chit-chat in person about parenting after you voiced your concerns/questions.

    😀 I love the blog community.

  • Alison (Fueling for Fitness) September 15, 2011, 4:08 pm

    Your enthusiasm for goat cheese is really infectious. 🙂

  • Alaina September 15, 2011, 4:09 pm

    Aww, Molly is so cute! I’m an only child too but luckily me and my cousins were all born within a few years of each other and we’re all really close. 🙂

  • Holly @ The Runny Egg September 15, 2011, 4:10 pm

    Baby Molly is so precious!

    I have 2 younger sisters and I babysat quite a bit in high school so changing diapers is no problem.

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers September 15, 2011, 4:10 pm

    I’ve never changed a diaper either. Only child here too. 😉

  • Suzanne September 15, 2011, 4:12 pm

    The pumpkin spice lattes are soo good! My niece has that same giraffe and we call her Gina-it’s one of her favorite toys!

  • Stephanie C September 15, 2011, 4:13 pm

    I was an only child, but had an older half brother who had kids so I got lots of experience with them. In addition to that I helped out at my church’s nursery, babysat, worked for MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) and my mom owned her own daycare! So i have lots of experience with that age group, but when it comes to a child over 5.. I don’t know what to talk to them about. I recently worked at a summer camp with 9-14 year olds and that was a transition! Definitely consider babysitting some of your friend’s kids/babies.. and.. after the first diaper, you’ll get it 🙂 There are also TONS of mom support groups out there, and even mom-to-be workshops.

  • Tania September 15, 2011, 4:18 pm

    Caitlin – don’t worry – I’m the same way. Not only have I never changed a diaper or really had to babysit but you’re ahead of me – I’ve never held a baby non-assisted. I’m petrified for when the fiance & I settle down for kids because of this but he swears up and down I’ll be fine. Sounds like we’re going to need a LOT of books and baby care classes!

  • Ash @ Good Taste Healthy Me September 15, 2011, 4:21 pm

    I’ve never changed a diaper either! I also was an only child so I basically have no experience with kids either. I’m scared of them, haha!

  • Johanna B September 15, 2011, 4:24 pm

    I love babies. I didn’t have much experience either before my daughter was born. When you have a newborn you learn stuff – FAST. Now I have a 4 1/2 mos old grandson. I still love babies.

  • kathleen @ the daily crumb September 15, 2011, 4:25 pm

    oh, caitlin, you will pick it up so easily when it comes to your own child. that maternal instinct will kick in and you’ll be a pro in no time. you are going to be such a great mama 🙂

  • amanda September 15, 2011, 4:28 pm

    Hey girl! my One yr old I had her when I was 23- I had done some babysitting when I was like 13-15 but none since then and I had only held a newborn once and I had NEVER changed a diaper lollll so I had to learn it was easy cept the grossy ones once in a while haha. Babies are an absolute blessing, we are gonna take her to an NFL game in the next couple weeks so life does still happen! =)

  • Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga September 15, 2011, 4:38 pm

    Lack of a changing table…ahhh, airplanes, parks, random accidents that just happen when you’re out…sometimes you just gotta improvise!

    I came up with a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe b/c I am too cheap to pay for the Starbucks ones…ha! 🙂

    And hey, we all have to start somewhere with babysitting and taking care of kids!

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife September 15, 2011, 4:49 pm

    Gotta start somewhere! Just ask a friend if you and the hubster can babysit their kid(s) –it is actually quite fun and entertaining….and a lot harder than you’d think. Heh:)

  • Brittney September 15, 2011, 4:59 pm

    I love Molly, she’s such a cutie! My ovaries hurt every time I’m around her! 🙂

  • Lindsey September 15, 2011, 5:04 pm

    I’m an only child too and have never changed a diaper either! I’m 24 right now and I have no desire to have kids. Were you like that at my age? I keep waiting to have a maternal instinct and it just ain’t happening!

    • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 5:05 pm

      Yea I was the same way. I don’t think I felt maternal until 26 or so.

  • Ali September 15, 2011, 5:12 pm

    Sophie the Giraffe! Funny story, those things are like $22 and my daughter LOVED hers but kept losing it…we ended buying 4. FOUR! That’s $90 on a plastic giraffe. Lesson learned. Don’t introduce next baby to the giraffe. Instead give her plastic tupperware 🙂

    • Stephanie C September 16, 2011, 12:37 am

      That’s crazy! I always think of Three Men and a Baby when I see those giraffes.. where the guy at the newspaper stand insisted it was a dinosaur 😉

  • Karen September 15, 2011, 5:14 pm

    I was not an only child, but I was the youngest and the only girl. So I was a big fat tomboy. I never wanted ANY parts of baby dolls or Barbies and as I got older, I was not interested in babysitting as a way to make some pocket money. So I was in a very similar place as you are before I had my kids. My mom used to make remarks about how she didn’t know how I was going to do it.

    When I had my first baby, my mom made no bones about the fact that she was amazed by my motherly skillz. She still tells people how calm I was as a new mom and my boys are 9 and 7 now. It really did come easily and naturally. Diaper changes and feeding? Piece of cake. The hard stuff sneaks up on you and has a lot more to do with emotions and intellect (yours and the kid’s!)

    I would send my kids to you in a heartbeat. Don’t sweat it. I don’t know if you can ever really be ready when it come sto practical stuff. But do make sure it’s the right choice for you.

    (By the way, my husband had absolutely ZERO experience with kids and he id great too.)

  • Katie @ Peace Love and Oats September 15, 2011, 5:17 pm

    i’m sure once you get a kid, you figure it out. and that lunch looks delicious!

  • Jen September 15, 2011, 5:18 pm

    The Wine article?

    Goat cheese goes on everything. I just automatically reach for it without even thinking now.

  • Shaya (Eye Girl Eats) September 15, 2011, 5:23 pm

    What a gorgeous little girl! She just looks intelligent already too haha.

    What about parenting were you talking about?

  • Paige September 15, 2011, 5:59 pm

    Hey Caitlin! I tried ( a variation ) of your hummus the other day. You’re right! It’s both holy and delicious:)

  • Molly @ RDexposed September 15, 2011, 6:02 pm

    Ever had to feed 2 babies at once? I once was in a game of twister while trying to bottle feed both of my twin nephews as babies. Now that’s a challenge!

  • Sweet and Savvy September 15, 2011, 6:02 pm

    Molly is so PRECIOUS! 🙂 Good luck on the freelance piece!

  • Tess September 15, 2011, 6:03 pm

    Caitlin, I don’t know if you know this but Baby Wise is pretty controversial. I strongly disagree with the recommendations and I know many others do. Just wanted to warn you that you may get some opinionated comments….

    • crystal September 15, 2011, 6:09 pm

      Yeah, I’m really biting my tongue to keep from going off a Babywise rant lol.

    • Cindi September 15, 2011, 6:14 pm

      Don’t worry ladies, I’m not strict babywise. I NEVER let her cry it out. I mostly like the theory of eat, play, sleep.

      • Tess September 15, 2011, 6:26 pm

        Thanks for clarifying. I wasn’t making any assumptions about your parenting — I was just reacting to BabyWise being mentioned with no indication of the controversy. It’s not a neutral reference book on parenting 🙂 The authors have a pretty specific agenda, which some like and others don’t.

        • Cindi September 15, 2011, 6:32 pm

          I agree. Babies (unfortunately) don’t come with a “how to” book and they are all so different. I got bits and pieces from this book and mentioned it to Caitlin particularly because of the eat, play, sleep method. I was having problems keeping her awake during feedings, so this really helped me. I also like having some sort of a schedule. But if Molly ever acts hungry or tired when she’s “not supposed to” – I go with the flow. I am pretty sure it’s just luck here though, because Molly is a very good, laid back baby. 🙂

    • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 6:19 pm

      Discuss!! I wanna hear the pros and cons!

      • Jennie @ While My Button Sleeps September 15, 2011, 6:44 pm

        This is SO crazy that this came up on your blog today, Caitlin. I just started trying to do things the “Baby Wise” way today and it was sooo hard. I cried with the monitor in my hand for the 10 longest minutes of my life before I caved. My sister used this method and loves it (but I don’t think she was uber strict either.)

        I like the eat / wake / sleep routine idea too though… I am going to give it a week but not with major “cry outs” I can’t do it!

        I want to hear from more people about this! Caitlin’s right — what are more pro/cons? I’d like to hear too…. I am going to run it by my pediatrician tomorrow AM too…

        • Jennie @ While My Button Sleeps September 15, 2011, 6:45 pm

          My husband just looked over my shoulder and pointed out that my “10 longest minutes” were actually about 3. Oops 🙂

        • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 6:46 pm

          Awww You and Cindi should connect through email!

    • April @ Grits and Granola Bars September 15, 2011, 7:53 pm

      Yeah, I thought “Ohhhh, here it goes!” when I saw it myself! 😀

      • crystal September 15, 2011, 10:01 pm

        http://www.ezzo.info/newsreports.htm

        My biggest thing is that when followed strictly it ignores the needs of a baby. The sleep play eat thing is great, but people can go nuts over following a rigid schedule and it’s either this or Ferberizing that has been linked to ftt. I’m much more follow your babies lead and when you have to do something that’s hard for them (like night weaning) do it slowly and gently while watching them for signs that’s it too much.

        My philosophy is my babies didn’t ask to be born, I made a conscious decision to have a baby (well one of them lol) so I am not going to make them mold themselves to my life. We need to find a balance between their needs and mine and do what works for both of us.

        • Stephanie C September 16, 2011, 12:40 am

          Totally agree! I don’t know if my mom ever read this book, but she DID let me and my brother cry ourselves to sleep.. but didn’t follow anything else this guy says. She was also into le leche league, so she let us breastfeed on demand. I don’t know too much about this, besides what wikipedia says but I am interested in learning more!

        • Thomas September 16, 2011, 4:21 pm

          do you have any information from this century regarding the controversy? your link is a little outdated. 1999 seems like it was just yesterday but it was actually over a decade ago. my wife and i used our own spin on baby wise with our 6 month old and have had nothing but success. he’s been sleeping thru the night since he was 9 weeks old. he’s happy and so are we! obviously a few of the things in the book don’t seem reasonable but to me if you’re smart enough to have a child, you’re smart enough to figure out what’s best for him or her. just my opinion.

          our little boy is the happiest baby i’ve seen. and he’s also about as laid back as you can get. i have a few friends with little babies that haven’t followed anything and have no schedule and they are absolutely miserable. is this just a random happening? maybe so. but maybe not.

          you say that “when followed strictly it ignores the needs of a baby”. well if you ignore the needs of your baby, you probably shouldn’t be a parent. people say an ounce of prevention goes a long way. well i believe that an ounce of intelligence goes a long way too. a guideline is a guideline. it’s not gospel. use some intelligence when raising your children and most things will work themselves out. just my two cents.

    • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 1:02 am

      Same here…not a fan of babywise. Interestingly, my husband even learned in MED SCHOOL that crying it out for extended periods of time under 1 year is not good…babies don’t learn to “not cry” they just learn that their needs will no longer be met by mom so they might as well give up. I don’t think that is a good lesson to teach your children and I believe it can lead to attachment issues later on.

      Bottom line…until they are 1, no baby can be spoiled or picked up too much. They aren’t rational and trying to manipulate you.

      I’ve heard a lot of people who use babywise don’t follow it strictly…at that point is it really babywise, or another method? Then when you say, “Babywise worked for me,” it can be a little misleading.

      There is an interesting book called The Science of Parenting that delves into what actually goes on chemically in a baby’s brain during crying–really interesting.

      • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 1:04 am

        And there is my opinionated rant…

        • crystal September 16, 2011, 1:20 am

          It was an awesome rant!

      • Eliza September 16, 2011, 5:25 am

        From a psych student point of view I can see basic theory behind letting a baby cry it out- it is generally supported that you aren’t meant to ‘reinforce’ undesired behaviour (eg mothers going to a crying baby) so this makes sense theoretically. But I would think when you are a mother, this theory would go out the window.. crying babies would get tired and frustrated, and I don’t see this being helpful in the long term. Really good topic to debate- I think I will do a paper on it!

        • lucy1 September 16, 2011, 7:22 am

          You’re right about undesired behaviour. However, a baby (under one) does not show undesired behaviour by crying. He/She shows that he/she is lacking something. Food, drink, comfort, love. I totally agree with the statement that a child under one year of age basically can’t be spoiled.

        • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 11:01 am

          Eliza–look up Attachment Disorder, Attachment Therapy, Mary Ainsworth, and I’ll have to ask my mom what else (she’s a family and marriage therapist that specializes in this)

          There is a lot of research on it–you might find it interesting.

  • Shayla @ The Good Life September 15, 2011, 6:08 pm

    Awww what a precious baby! It’s funny I have very little experience with babies yet I’m yearning for one so badly and we’re currently trying – hubby actually said to me the other day “I’m excited to see you become a mom because I’ve never seen you be motherly.” Ha, is that good or bad?! 😉

  • Brandy September 15, 2011, 6:13 pm

    Just wanted to let you know in case you didn’t, there is a lot of controversy surrounding Baby Wise.

    http://www.drmomma.org/2009/12/babywise-linked-to-babies-dehydration.html

    No judgement, just wanted to share the information.

    • Cindi September 15, 2011, 6:16 pm

      I knew the Babywise thing might upset some. Don’t worry – I never let her cry it out. And she’s mighty chunky, so obviously if she’s hungry – I give it to her. 🙂

      • CaitlinHTP September 15, 2011, 6:19 pm

        Innnnteresting. Obviously Cindi doesn’t dehydrate Molly. 🙂

      • Brandy September 15, 2011, 6:22 pm

        As I said, no judgement! I just think it is important to know all the information. 🙂

        • Cindi September 15, 2011, 6:26 pm

          Absolutely – I think some people take things to the extreme far too often. I can’t imagine letting your baby starve or intentionally harming them. So sad.

        • crystal September 15, 2011, 10:03 pm

          I think it’s one of those things that can be really easy to take to extremes, especially when you’re sleep deprived with a high needs baby.

          Molly is adorable btw. I have baby fever so bad right now and those pictures are not helping it lol

      • Thomas September 16, 2011, 4:23 pm

        Cindi, I couldn’t agree more. My wife and I took bits and pieces from baby wise and it’s worked out great. I like to think of it as a gps for your car. You follow the gps until it gives you some crazy direction that your instinct tells you isn’t right. And then you choose your own path. The gps is a great guide, but doesn’t necessarily get you 100 percent to your destination. I picture Michael Scott and Dwight driving into the pond when using the gps analogy.

    • Jennie @ While My Button Sleeps September 15, 2011, 6:55 pm

      Wow…I am really glad you shared this link! We have NOT been BabyWise following at all and I thought today that my baby was old enough to establish a routine like it. This info is very helpful! I think I’m going to follow Cindi’s (and my sister’s) lead and be a “relaxed” Baby Wise mom! For now anyway, maybe I will have a different view in a week! 🙂

      Thanks for sharing this!

      • Brandy September 15, 2011, 8:21 pm

        Jennie- I identify more with attachment parenting and personally don’t like Baby-wise but I’ve heard great things about Tracy Hogg’s “The Secrets of the Baby Whisperer” http://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Baby-Whisperer-Connect-Communicate/dp/0345440900. It follows the Eat, Play, Sleep, (she calls it EASY, Eat, Activity, Sleep, You) philosophy but is much more in tune and respectful of your baby. I feel like it falls between Attachment Parenting (Dr. Sears) and Baby-wise. I also have the No-Cry Sleep Solution for the Kindle and would be happy to loan it to you if you’re interested. I have a wonderful, thriving, independent, sleeps through the night, 13 month old but I remember those first six months just kicked my ass!

        • Cindi September 15, 2011, 8:52 pm

          I’ve heard really great things about Baby Whisperer too!

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) September 15, 2011, 6:18 pm

    Awww, she’s so cute!! Since I started working at a daycare a few years ago, I’ve become so comfortable with babies really quickly. I was really nervous taking care of such tiny ones when I started, but it’s really not that bad!

  • Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun September 15, 2011, 6:29 pm

    I love goat cheese. It is a huge obsession of mine. And I swear by Babywise. Used the ideas behind it with both my kiddos and they are very easy going kids who sleep well and are generally very happy.

  • Hillary September 15, 2011, 7:38 pm

    Babies really aren’t THAT scary! And diapers are a breeze once you get a hang of it!

  • Kiran @ KiranTarun.com September 15, 2011, 7:45 pm

    Aahh.. Molly is a cutie pie 🙂

  • April @ Grits and Granola Bars September 15, 2011, 7:52 pm

    Molly is gorgeous! 🙂

  • Heather September 15, 2011, 7:55 pm

    Don’t worry! My friend Bethany had never changed a baby and now she has twins and is a super momma. You learn and adjust.

  • CJ @ http://healthy-happy-whole.com/ September 15, 2011, 8:07 pm

    my sister, who is 19, is pregnant and due in 6 months. She lives with my husband and I, and the father is not the most responsible person in the world, so ryan and i want to do everything we can to ensure our niece or nephew has a good life! im nervous because i am totally inexperienced when it comes to infants…no diapers, no bottles, i am totally clueless!!! if I figure anything out along the way…i will definitely let you know, but for now, I can totally relate!!!

  • Emily September 15, 2011, 8:46 pm

    What a cute baby!! She’s beautiful, love her dress! I’m not sure if I’ve changed a diaper by myself ever either…not my favorite aspect of babysitting…

  • Mary @ Bites and Bliss September 15, 2011, 8:55 pm

    The biggest thing about changing diapers would be seeing it. I’m sure it’s okay once you’re a mom..but as of right now I still get grossed out..

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:03 am

      I feel like owning a dog has prepared me for this!

  • Megs September 15, 2011, 9:08 pm

    Awe, I spot Sophie the Giraffe!! That toy is the best for babies!

  • cathy September 15, 2011, 9:13 pm

    “the clock is ticking” -> hehe, i get it! perfect way to end the post! 🙂

  • Erica September 15, 2011, 9:16 pm

    I had never changed a diaper before i had kaylin!! Youd be shocked how much of it is natural!!

  • Moni'sMeals September 15, 2011, 9:30 pm

    Cute baby! No thanks on the diaper changing, haha!
    I agree…Goat cheese all the way!

    So what is this Baby Wise all about???

  • Peter September 15, 2011, 10:13 pm

    from Wikipedia
    “After noticing the controversy surrounding the book and investigating complaints about the medical advice it gives to new parents,[19] Multnomah Books stopped publishing the text in September 2001.[20] They returned the book rights to GFI. Subsequent printings have been produced by Parent-Wise Solutions, an imprint formed by the Ezzos to publish their books.”

    Sooo….the books still sell but the publisher turned the rights back because the advice is generally regarded as medically unsound.

  • cristin September 15, 2011, 10:35 pm

    I’m so jealous of all of you who haven’t changed a diaper! I feel like I could do it in my sleep. I’m the oldest of 6 kids and have babysat A LOT!! Like a lot a lot!

    All my friends have used the Weisbluth book Healthy Sleep Habits, Healthy Child if anyone’s interested.

  • Michelle September 15, 2011, 10:38 pm

    Peter has it right. Ezzo is dangerous to babies. Glad to hear you’re not following it strictly, but I’d like to encourage you to seek out more baby-friendly and attachment encouraging sources, that ALSO give you guidance on baby’s natural rhythms and sleep/feed cues. 🙂

  • Wendy September 15, 2011, 10:45 pm

    In regards to babies, I was in the exact same boat as you right up until I gave birth to my daughter. However, my very first thought when she was born was “gimme MY baby!” It’s different when it’s your own baby, and you know that you are responsible for him/her. Total instinct. That said, we somehow managed to get the nurses to change all her diapers, so I didn’t change my first diaper until we were home and she was 2 days old. I’m an old hat now, after 2 babies, 2+ years of breastfeeding, and 5 straight years (!!) of cloth diapering. You’ll be fine. 🙂

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:03 am

      Do you like cloth diapering? It sounds appealing but… is it a lot of work?

      • Wendy September 16, 2011, 10:28 pm

        Well, my kiddos are 6 and 4, so it’s been a couple years since I’ve changed a diaper. But I really did like it, and I even used one of the more labor intensive types (prefolds + fastener + cover). The laundry really wasn’t that big of a deal, and it didn’t really take that much longer to change a diaper. I liked it for several reasons – cheaper, no filling landfills with disposables, good for baby bums – but it’s something you really have to decide for yourself that you’re willing to do. It’s definitely not for everyone! And it’s easier when daddy’s on board with it. A good friend of mine would have loved to cloth diaper, but ended up not b/c her husband couldn’t be convinced.

  • Lauren @ therawcure September 15, 2011, 11:01 pm

    Question: how have you NEVER changed a diaper? Just curious how you got away with that one, even if you were an only child! 🙂

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:02 am

      There were never any pooping babies around me!

  • Deva @ Deva by Definition September 15, 2011, 11:23 pm

    I am the oldest of four, so I got used to babies growing up . The Boy is an only child, though, so I am really curious to see what kind of parents we will be when we have kids 🙂

  • Lauren @ LaDolcePita September 15, 2011, 11:54 pm

    You’re going to be a wonderful mommy…look at you, with Sophie in your blog posts and everything 🙂 However – I disapprove of your cheddar comment.

  • JJ September 16, 2011, 12:40 am

    Babywise is the first parenting guide that the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended AGAINST. The author isn’t even a medical professional! It really bothers me when parents try out these methods because they heard about it from friends or read it on a discussion board, and not do their own research. It’s great if some parents feel it works for them because they can choose how they want to raise their kids. I’ll admit, i’m a tad disappointed that you didn’t read up on it yourself before linking to the Baby Wise website.

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:02 am

      It seems like it does work for some people… just because the AAP doesn’t like it doesn’t mean it doesn’t work for some people or is inherently harmful – there’s a discussion in the comments above about it.

      • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 11:19 am

        Actually, the concern was that is is inherently harmful if followed to the T.

        http://aapnews.aappublications.org/content/14/4/21.abstract

        A lot of the controversy happened over 10 years ago, but there is an interesting Salon article on it:

        http://www.salon.com/life/feature/1998/08/cov_06feature2.html
        I wish I could get the whole article–maybe my husband can get it for me. As I understand it (and I could be wrong), recent editions of the book have been somewhat revised to take out a lot of the most controversial and blatantly medically false advice (like feeding your baby on demand can cause hormone problems that lead to post-partum depression). Unfortunately, many of these old editions are still floating around and used.

        The most interesting thing I have heard (and I don’t know if this is true and have know way to substantiate it) is that the authors’ children no longer have contact with their parents. Again–no idea if this is true, but if it is, that is somewhat telling to me.

        PS–You also might be interested in some of the theological basis for the book. It IS a Christian book–make no mistake. I wont delve into it here, but I’m not sure you would like the ideas based on the very little I know about your beliefs. As a Catholic, I’m not a fan.

        • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 11:19 am

          The whole AAP* article. I miss the days of University library access.

        • Marissa C September 16, 2011, 11:34 am

          I guess one final thing before I go away looking like a total baby Nazi.

          I think the “Mommy Wars” are the scariest part of parenting. Everyone has their views on birth, feeding, EVERYTHING! No choice you choose to write about will remain unscathed–ask That Wife!

          This is just one particular topic I do feel very strongly about because I feel like the author has misled a lot of very well-meaning parents.

    • mayct September 21, 2011, 1:54 pm

      Thanks for sharing these links Marissa – I was going to link to the same articles. I have a 5 month old and someone lent me babywise, and then my sister saw it and told me about the AAP thing. The revised book still has some blatant lies in it. (Read the Salon article before reading babywise)
      If you like the Eat, Activity, Sleep idea (which I do and use) a good non-controversial book (I think! Who knows with parenting) is The Secrets of the Baby Whisperer.

  • Khushboo September 16, 2011, 1:29 am

    Molly is adorable! THe idea of changing diapers cringes me out but I know (or at least hope) that will change when my time comes!

  • Nicole September 16, 2011, 1:40 am

    I don’t know if anyone has ever suggested it, but if you love goat cheese you should really try boursin. It’s creamy like goat cheese and the herb/garlic stuff is amazing! Definitely worth trying.

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:01 am

      I will keep an eye out for boursin! Sounds good.

  • Sophie @ threetimesf September 16, 2011, 2:55 am

    Awww, Molly is adorable! I was like you for a long time – no childcare experience – then I got left with my 18month godson for the weekend – you soon learn! (Let’s just say I was on the phone to my Mum about 9 times an hour!)

  • Ami@dashofcurry.com September 16, 2011, 5:13 am

    Beautiful baby! I am in a similar situation as you– thinking about having babies but have really no experience with them! I have two nephews who are a bit older now, but I still managed to never change a diaper! I figure it all will come naturally (and with a lot of research!).

  • lucy1 September 16, 2011, 7:33 am

    I had never held a newborn before my older daughter. Never changed a diaper, never babysat. Went to one “class” for about two hours about childcare where we didn’t practice but were just shown how to change a diaper on a puppet and were told a few basic things.

    You’ll probably stay in the hospital for a couple of days after birth, so you’ll have help there. I always went to the nurses at first and let them supervise me when changing or nursing my baby. Just ask for help and advice, and you’ll get it. After a few days it won’t be that scary anymore and after a few weeks you’ll be able to change a diaper with the baby lying on your knees in a moving train, if you have to. 🙂

    Where I live, new mothers usually have a midwife visiting them after birth (paid for by their health insurance). At first every day, then every other day and so on, until the baby is around six weeks old. The midwife looks after Mom’s uterus, is there to talk about worries, baby-blues etc, and also looks after the child’s development (weight gain, jaundice etc). She usually helps with the first bath and stuff like that. That was so comforting to me. Is there a service like that in the US?

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 10:01 am

      ohmigod i didnt realize there were classes and stuff… this is awesome!

  • whitney September 16, 2011, 7:48 am

    I am so glad you admitted that. I thought i was the only one.
    I am a 32 year old only child and have never changed a diaper either. Im so afraid i will hurt them or poo will come flying out the side if i do it. Glad to know i am not alone!!

  • Lauren September 16, 2011, 9:21 am

    Goat cheese is amazing although I’ve never tried millet. I wonder if I’d even be able to find it here in Spain!? Anyway, I’m sure everything with babies will come naturally when it’s your own. Don’t worry!

  • Sarah T. September 16, 2011, 9:24 am

    I didn’t have any baby experience either before my daughter was born. None. Never baby-sat, changed a diaper, or really even held one. In the birthing class we went to during pregnancy I put the diaper on backward and felt like an idiot. But we figured everything out when she was born and I think I’m a pretty darn good mom.

  • Natalie September 16, 2011, 9:55 am

    Caitlin, I have barely babysat, and my husband and i are trying for our first baby. It’s terrifying, since my college aged sister works as a nanny and I have almost no experience. Luckily my cousin who lives nearby has three girls age 3 and under. The youngest is less than a month old. I’m making it a point to spend time with them and am learning so much (without having to be in charge of the kids alone). You will be a great mom when you are ready!

    • CaitlinHTP September 16, 2011, 9:59 am

      Hahah we should form a commune and raise our children together.

  • Rachel W September 16, 2011, 9:55 am

    Look at that cute baby girl!! She is darling 🙂

  • Tiff @ Love Sweat and Beers September 16, 2011, 10:33 am

    I hear ya. I think I’ve only held a baby once, never fed one, and never changed a diaper. The hubs and I are looking to have kids in 2-3 years, and parts of it are downright terrifying. Good thing we’re fast learners!

  • Amber K September 16, 2011, 12:50 pm

    I have actually babysat probably…a million times in my life! Or at least close to that…lol. I was always older than my mom’s friend’s kids and so I was usually the one watching everyone. Especially during my brother’s cub scout meetings. Parents would bring their younger kids who would inevitably get bored so I’d take them out into the hallway and entertain everyone.

    Not that I think this makes me an expert in any way! I’m definitely nervous about becoming a mom one day. I’m great with babysitting because I know eventually I get to give them back, but when it’s my own…who do I give it back to? 😉

  • Katie September 16, 2011, 1:39 pm

    I told my doctor I was worried about having kids because a lot of the characteristics I seem to have do not a good mom make (lack of patience, wanting things in order, etc.) He said that since I am worried about being a good parent that already means I will be a good parent. Vote of confidence for me! I am due in 6 weeks and never thought I wanted kids…I can’t wait! We are so excited!

    • Kristen @ The Concrete Runner September 17, 2011, 1:58 pm

      Ha – I totally understand. I’m very impatient and anal-retentive, AND I’m a teacher! But I agree with your doctor – the fact that you are worrying about means that you will most likely be a great parent! Congrats!

  • Kristen @ The Concrete Runner September 17, 2011, 1:56 pm

    I think parenting comes with experience. I am due 3 weeks from tomorrow and have maybe changed 1 or 2 diapers ever in my life. My husband has NEVER changed a diaper (we are practicing on a bear) and has only held a few babies. I’m actually not nervous at all about that kind of stuff because they will teach you that in the hospital. I promise – just because you don’t think you know enough about babies doesn’t mean you can’t have one of your own!

  • hemp jogger September 18, 2011, 3:02 pm

    i hope this doesnt sound totally wack-a-do, but i noticed the baby’s right eye is turning in (esotropia). if her eye is constantly turned inward, it can hinder full vision development, so let your friend know to keep a watch on it, or bring it up to the doctor. it may just be the way she’s looking in the photos, too, but thought i’d bring it up 🙂
    love the post btw! i have no input; single and no change of parenting anytime soon, ha.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) September 21, 2011, 11:58 pm

    I can’t believe you have never changed a diaper – haha, lucky you!!!

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