My little baby is growing up!

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Oh, what a month.  Can you believe little BabyHTP is 10 months old (well, actually, now he’s ten and a half months old…).  The days just seem to flew by in one big, baby blur.  My beautiful Henry seems more and more like a toddler every single day.

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Can I do  a Henry update before I do a me update?

 

Henry’s personality comes out more and more every single day.  He is fun, engaging, brave, silly, and mischievous.  He is SO active now.  He runs me ragged from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.  At night, I put him into bed and plop on the couch.  He’s been walking for a few weeks now.  He’s so tiny but so efficient on his feet – it looks hysterical.

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It’s been such a joy to watch him develop his cognitive and motor skills and to become more and more aware of the world and people around him.  I had zero baby experience before having Henry….  I just didn’t understand how fast time flies when you are watching a child grow up.  It’s such a miracle that they go from sweet lumps to little boys and girls in just a year!

 

Beyond his newfound walking skills, he can also roll me a ball and kick a soccer ball down the hallway – just like his dad, this kiddo loves playing with tennis balls, basketballs, soccer balls… all types!  I guarantee he will be sporty.  Couldn’t care less about stuffed animals but thinks balls, toy cars, and puppets are pretty sweet.  The pink and blue balloons from my birthday surprise party were also a big hit (awkward color choice by the Husband, huh?  LOL!  We had to explain to our guests that there wasn’t a big secret announcement…).

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His ‘words’ include:  dagh (dog), ca (cat), nanana (no no no), and mama and dada for both myself and Kristien (interchangeably).  When he hears the neighbor’s dog bark, he points his finger in the air and says “DAGH!”

 

Henry was not the cuddliest of newborns.  He liked to be held, of course, but he was also fine with hanging out in a pillow by himself and watching the people and pets in the room (or, later, crawling after everyone).  But now that he walks, he is suddenly so much more affectionate and gives us lots of hugs.  He loves to hug!  It is so sweet.  Krsitien and I both really appreciate the transformation.  We don’t mind the sudden neediness (unless we cannot do whatever we need to do one-handed!).

 

Eating is going well.  From watching my friends’ babies, I’ve realized that Henry is just not very ‘food-focused.’  Henry will eat if he is actually hungry but if not, he just won’t. This is a good life skill but it stressed me out a bit at first.  However, doing mostly Baby Led Weaning and letting him feed himself has helped a lot (otherwise – I think all meals would be wars).  Sometimes, however, he prefers that I feed him bites on a fork.  He just has to be in the mood.  He likes all sorts of veggies (but especially spinach) and loves beans in pasta sauce.  Once, he ate an entire banana, which kind of blew my mind.  That’s like me eating SIX bananas!

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Can you tell I am so proud of my boy?  He is the best thing in my whole life. Smile

 

Okay – now, a me update!  Mentally, things are good.  I really enjoy my new job as the Ramblin Rose Social Media Coordinator.  Our first triathlon of the series is this Sunday, and I cannot wait.  The career shift has been great for me as a mother and wife… it’s challenging, fun, and different.  And ‘downsizing’ has given me a lot more time (and mental energy) for Henry and the Husband.

 

And here’s a  Body After Baby update – It’s been two months since I began the weaning process.  So now my body feels pretty much ‘normal’ for the first time in 18-odd months.  It’s nice.  The dark linea nigrea on my tummy disappeared finally.  And I’m actually in better shape than I was before I got pregnant – go figure.  I think it’s all that chasing-after-baby-time.  All my clothes and underthings fit again, and I really like my new short haircut!

 

On a really good morning, with lots and lots of coffee, I almost feel like a supermomma.  But the idea of another baby?  Oh my goodness.  I just don’t know how you moms of many do it!  I’ve just gotten the hang of one.  Well, mostly gotten the hang of parenting one, at least.

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The one and only time he got away with that.

 

On that note, here’s a little something extra-extra for the mommas and the mommas-to-be.

Some of you might have heard of the new online magazine, Daily Mom, that just launched last month. It’s a great place for posts and articles for the modern woman and mom.  I have partnered with Daily Mom to host one of their giveaways as a part of an extensive 50 Days of Giveaways campaign to celebrate their launch. Today, one lucky HTP reader will win a Baby Carrier from Lillebaby.

Lillebaby is all about functionality and beauty. They offer amazingly comfortable baby carriers that don’t skimp on design. Be sure to check out their products on their website. Keep in the loop by following them on Facebook and Twitter.  And of course, enter below for a chance to win.

 

The giveaway will run for a week, and there are only two mandatory entries with many optional ones. All you have to do is follow the directions below in the Rafflecopter widget. This giveaway is open to legal US and Canadian residents only. And be sure to visit Daily Mom tomorrow to see what new item they are giving away and to enter previous drawings! The prizes range from strollers to high chairs, monitors, diaper bags, fashion items, baby clothing and photography products. There is something for everyone. If you have any questions, please email Daily Mom staff!

 

NOTE:  Do NOT comment to enter this giveaway,  Instead, click the widget below or use this link—> ENTER a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

I hope you guys have a fabulous weekend!  Good luck!  Henry says, “Bye-Bye!” with a floppy wave. Smile

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Bye-Bye!

{ 59 comments }

 

  • Coco May 2, 2013, 7:01 am

    Wow, what a difference a few months makes! Henry looks like such a big boy- so adorable!

  • chelsea May 2, 2013, 7:10 am

    You are looking great!!! I remember last year waiting to find out what you were having 🙂 As far as deciding to have another one….I think its like closing your eyes and jumping off a ledge hoping it all goes well. 🙂 Turns out my second one was way crazier than my first…so now I know for sure I am done. 🙂
    Glad you didn’t totally vanish..love reading your blog
    -Chelsea

    • Caitlin May 2, 2013, 7:14 am

      thanks 🙂 im glad i didnt vanish either!

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat May 2, 2013, 7:21 am

    I LOVE that last photo of you and Henry! This was a great update Caitlin. I think babies can teach us so much about intuitive eating because when they’re hungry, you definitely hear about it, and when they’re not, they stop eating. So great to hear that you’re loving your new job and that things are going well for you energy-wise. I had to laugh at your comment about not knowing how moms with more than 1 child manage… I just have to look after myself and that can be quite enough of a challenge sometimes!

  • Brittnie (A Joy Renewed) May 2, 2013, 7:25 am

    That last picture is priceless! Love it!

    My daughter is 12 months old today!! CRAZINESS! It really does pass so quickly. I am amazed at Henry’s motor and language skills. That is awesome. Clara is still not crawling and not babbling much but she is in OT and we are working on it daily. 🙂

  • Liza May 2, 2013, 7:34 am

    You and Henry are adorable! What a cutie!

    In the picture with Henry climbing on books, why would you take a photo with your camera rather than grabbing him before he fell? Totally not trying to criticize you here but he looks so unsteady. Weren’t you worried about him falling? I

    • Caitlin May 2, 2013, 8:42 am

      Not really 🙂 he was fine. That kiddo has a serious grip. I had to pry him off the bookshelf. But yeah – not allowed to do that anymore!

  • Allison May 2, 2013, 8:12 am

    You are both beautiful! Okay, he is handsome :p

  • Colleen May 2, 2013, 8:26 am

    such a cute post! henry is adorable and you look great! quick question – where did you get those white bookshelves in henry’s nursery?

    • Caitlin May 2, 2013, 8:41 am

      Ikea 🙂 they are actually for pictures.

  • Amanda May 2, 2013, 8:28 am

    He’s so cute! I’m so glad that you have more energy for your family and that you’re enjoying your new job. So much good news! How is he already 10 months old???? Where did the time go?? Enjoy him 🙂

  • Karen @ Runner Girl Eats May 2, 2013, 8:32 am

    You and Henry look great and seem very happy. I love the pink and blue balloons too….boys just don’t think about those things haha!

  • Lisa May 2, 2013, 8:35 am

    I loved this post Caitlin! I can’t get over his hair–so cute!

    • Hope May 2, 2013, 9:20 am

      Yes! His hair is adorable.

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) May 2, 2013, 8:41 am

    Aw, Caitlin, you sound so happy! I love that! I have two boys 2 1/2 years apart. They are now 12 and 14 1/2, I think with having two…you just kind of go with it. I went on my first 10 mile run the other day and I felt like my legs just kind of took over without me thinking. I relate that same feeling to having two kids…

    I’m so happy for you Caitlin! Henry looks happy and healthy, as do you!

  • Sara May 2, 2013, 9:07 am

    Henry is totally adorable and I too love your short haircut! 🙂 My baby boy is due any time now! Can’t wait! And I look forward to experiencing all these things with my son 🙂

  • Lauren May 2, 2013, 9:16 am

    Aw, Henry is really the spitting image of his dad.

  • Brittany (Healthy Slice of Life) May 2, 2013, 9:53 am

    Aw, the last picture is my favorite! Captures life with toddler perfectly 🙂 I’m so glad life is so great for you right now!

  • Ashlee@HisnHers May 2, 2013, 9:55 am

    Love to hear that you’re all doing so well!! I love that last picture. SO adorable!

  • Aerevyn May 2, 2013, 10:16 am

    You look so smart and sassy with this haircut!

    Henry has changed so much in the last month! He looks like a different person, and like a little boy instead of a baby. Amazing. I think I see a future rock climber in the making. Ha ha.

  • Amy @ Healthy and Fit for Real May 2, 2013, 10:32 am

    Love that blazer and top! Where did you get them if you don’t mind me asking?

    • Caitlin May 2, 2013, 10:37 am

      blazer was from banana but two years ago, and the top is from marshalls 🙂

  • Ashley May 2, 2013, 10:38 am

    I don’t have kids but I am at the age where all my friends do and I am so constantly amazed by how fast they seem to grow up!

    You guys both look so happy 🙂

  • Amber @ Busy, Bold, Blessed May 2, 2013, 10:45 am

    You look fabulous, Henry is darling, congrats on all accounts!

  • Jacquelyn @justjacq May 2, 2013, 10:53 am

    he makes the best faces in photos! so adorable

  • Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries May 2, 2013, 10:55 am

    You’re right, Henry suddenly turned into a little toddler! What a cutie he is! And you look awesome too. I love your hair short. I’m glad you’re feeling great!

  • Kendra May 2, 2013, 11:02 am

    Great update! You and Henry look so happy together! He is such a cutie and such a little stud! I love how he was climbing on those books and shelves. That shows some courage, which I totally admire. When my son does stuff like that it certainly makes me cringe but I do want him to explore and push himself. I also try not to be too far behind him in case he falls. 😉 I can’t always be right by his side so if I can teach him how to explore safely and when it is appropriate then that is all I can really do. Right?

    Anyways, you look fab and in case you haven’t heard it yet today… You are doing a great job, mama!

  • Reenie May 2, 2013, 11:02 am

    He looks so teeny to be walking…. so cute!! You look great Caitlin. 🙂

  • Erin @ The Grass Skirt May 2, 2013, 11:22 am

    Henry really amazed me a few weeks ago with how steady he is on his feet- even at such a tiny size! I cannot believe how quickly these little buggers grow.

  • Sarah @ Yogi in Action May 2, 2013, 11:29 am

    So glad to hear you’re loving time with Henry. I feel like people are way quicker at pointing out all the bad parts of parenting (lack of sleep, constant busyness, etc.) and no one ever talks about the good parts.

    Thanks for sharing the good parts 🙂

  • Kattrina May 2, 2013, 11:32 am

    Henry is so cute and I’m so glad that you are feeling “back to normal”, or at least as normal as you’ll ever be post-baby.

    I have the hardest time getting my son to eat (he’s 7.5 mo), he is just not interested. If we try to feed him purees he totally refuses and he’ll eat a little through baby-led weaning, but not too much. It kind of stresses me out but I figure he’ll eat when he’s ready (I hope).

    I haven’t really found the time to get back in shape and I’m hoping my kangaroo belly isn’t here to stay for the rest of my life. Between work, class, baby, and family there is just so little time to get a workout in. I really miss running but hope to start up again soon. It’s gonna happen one day, right????

  • Emily May 2, 2013, 11:37 am

    Oh my goodness, he is such a little boy now 🙂 So adorable!!! That last picture is fantastic. Glad to hear the shift is working out so well for you!

  • Julie May 2, 2013, 11:45 am

    Henry is walking early!! Love these posts, btw. That pic of him trying to climb up the bookshelves cracked me up. Would love to see a post about your surprise party. 🙂

  • anne May 2, 2013, 12:25 pm

    Great post and update! You look great, new do is especially flattering on you.

  • Carolina John May 2, 2013, 1:08 pm

    And all that long hair is gone! haha, that’s what happens when he starts to be able to grab it. every new mom goes really short like that. I bet it feels good to sleep again now, huh?

  • Jane @ Not Plain So Jane May 2, 2013, 2:09 pm

    Those balloon colors crack me up. Only a guy would choose those colors unknowingly.

  • Catherine @ A Two Storey Home May 2, 2013, 2:43 pm

    You look great, Caitlin! And Henry continues to be adorable. I feel like the look on his face whenever he looks at the camera is like, “Yeah, I know I’m a little bit famous.” So cute 🙂

  • JenATX May 2, 2013, 4:08 pm

    love the short hair! and you are totally a supermomma 🙂 even with just one kiddo

  • Jolene (Homespun Heritage) May 2, 2013, 4:16 pm

    Henry has lost that “baby” look! What a fun little guy you have! I have 7 kiddos and this last pregnancy has me being a bit selfish with my body and I’m feeling like I really need a break between kiddos….I love pregnancy and babies but I am content with not having more right this very moment (my youngest is 7 months).

    Interested in the Joggermom Marathon? Here’s the link if you want to jump in…there is still time! marathon.joggermom.com

  • Amanda @ Peanut Butter & Adrenaline May 2, 2013, 4:38 pm

    Henry is so adorable! His red hair absolutely melts my heart.

  • Rebecca P. May 2, 2013, 5:17 pm

    I love your hair short too! and Henry is so adorable!

  • Jess May 2, 2013, 7:38 pm

    Glad to hear you can still be in great shape without working out hard! Women put too much pressure on themselves- good for you!

  • BroccoliHut May 2, 2013, 8:53 pm

    Oh, my goodness Henry is such a cutie! I love how he has so much hair all the sudden!

  • Catherine May 2, 2013, 9:04 pm

    Awww, this is such an awesome update! As a mama of a 6-10-12 baby girl, I just love reading about Henry and your post-partum updates! I’m one of the crazies who is having my babies very close in age (#2 is due in October), but I find myself so much more confident this time. I think you’ll feel the same way when you decide to expand your family. Although I am having a boy this time around, and I am a bit nervous about the whole “pee spraying” thing haha 🙂

  • Amber K May 2, 2013, 9:41 pm

    He is such a cutie, and I love your haircut. 🙂

  • Brooke May 2, 2013, 9:57 pm

    You look great!!!! Hot mom!

  • Katherine May 2, 2013, 11:26 pm

    So happy for how happy you seem in your life! Been reading for 6 or so years and its incredible to see your life now. Beautiful!

    • Caitlin May 3, 2013, 6:56 am

      Thank you!

  • Jessica May 3, 2013, 1:49 am

    I LOVE your hair that length and style!
    Great to see the updates — Henry is adorable. Time flies….

  • Nelly May 3, 2013, 8:02 am

    I can totally relate to all of the above! I cant think about baby #2 until Brooklyn AT LEAST turns a year old!

  • Joy May 3, 2013, 8:39 am

    I LOVE your haircut. You really do look wonderful…so happy.

    I have to admit that I really miss you posting up a few times a day (you’re so inspirational and always have thoughtful things to write about), but I’ll take what I can get. I’m glad that you’re feeling good about your new job and everything sounds like it’s going great for you.

    Henry has gotten so big! He is adorable.

    • Caitlin May 3, 2013, 11:49 am

      Thanks Joy 🙂

  • Ellen May 3, 2013, 9:37 am

    I love your baby/momma updates! Henry is big and you look fantastic. My babe is going on 9 months and I can not fathom another child yet. But I did read an article that the first child is always the hardest and after that it gets easier and easier, because they have each other to entertain them selves and as mommas we are more confident in our abilities. I dont know if that is true but thought it was an interesting perspective anyway.

  • Sam May 3, 2013, 11:46 am

    I honestly can’t get over how CUTE he is! He’s so teeny, but looks like a little man! Too cute.

    You look amazing! Your short hair suits you!

  • Sherri May 3, 2013, 11:56 am

    Love love love these posts.

    Question: I’m copying those book shelves for our baby girl’s nursery and I’m wondering where you got those particular shelves and whether they came with the right hardware to hang them (and for them to be sturdy enough for Henry to hang off like that!).

    • Caitlin May 4, 2013, 11:01 am

      IKEA. If you mount them into studs, they should be fine.

  • Ja @Ja on the RUN May 3, 2013, 8:50 pm

    Wow. Thats a nice before and after photo. 🙂 he still looks cute and you are still pretty with short hair. 🙂

  • Jojo May 4, 2013, 11:01 pm

    Henry is adorable and it’s amazing how fast babies grow. I remember watching my newborn cousin grew and it still blows my mind how fast the time went by.
    I can’t imagine having a kid of my own, and I’m always in awe of new mothers, figuring things out for the first time. You must be superhuman!

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