Baby/ Behind The Butter

Grayson Allen: Five Months

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Where did the past five months go?!

Last time I checked he was five weeks old, wouldn’t stop crying, and I was a walking zombie. Man…how time flies!

This past month was our best month yet with Grayson! I feel like I’m going to say that every month from now on so be prepared. But really! He’s so much more sociable now, is awake for longer periods of time and starting solids was just too fun. Everyone has been asking about if I’ve been making my own baby food. The answer is…sorta. I started to and had really good intentions (made a bunch of purees to freeze) but then I got rather lazy and started buying the little organic squeeze pouches from the supermarket. I think I’ll do a combination of homemade and the pouches because they are so easy and Grayson seems to love them! Especially the pears and sweet potatoes.

grayson 5 months-9417

Speaking of food, our chunker is weighing in now at 22 lbs! I know…five months old and 22 pounds already. It’s sort of ridiculous. One of my favorite things to do is to wear Grayson in my wrap. I have a whole babywearing post coming up where I compare different types of carriers because it’s been so much fun for us. Babywearing has seriously saved us! I wear him every day when we are out and about and during his fussy hour in the evenings. I’ve gotten to try a few different carriers but I have to say, my heart is with my woven wraps. There’s a learning curve involved, for sure, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

grayson 5 months-9427

Clothes-wise, he’s wearing all 6-12 month tops, a lot of 9-12 month bottoms and size 70 in Hannah Andersson, which is our absolute favorite. Their jammies are seriously the best ever and we own three pairs, which I keep in rotation constantly. I’ve given up on having Grayson wear baby jeans. They just don’t work on his big cloth diapered booty. He wears a lot of stretchy little wool pants and wool longies, which are awesome because they double as diaper covers.

Now, don’t hate me but we never experienced any sort of four month sleep regression (knock on wood). Grayson sleeps 12 hours a night and has since he was 15 weeks old. I put him down at 7pm and go back in to get him at 7am. I mean, obviously, there are days when his naps get cut short or he wakes up a little early but sleep is going great for the most part. I don’t really take any credit for that, though — it’s seriously ALL Moms on Call. The method is amazing and we will absolutely use it for our next kids.

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We don’t use the magical merlin suit anymore because I got worried about him rolling over in it and, honestly, he was just outgrowing it. Now every night he wears his adorable Hannah Andersson jammies, socks and a wool sleep sack. It’s the coziest thing ever and I love that it’s all natural fibers. It’s awesome because you rarely ever have to wash it since it’s wool. I think I’ve only washed this twice and we’ve had it since he was born.

Another notable thing this past month was dropping his dream feed. I told you guys that this was where I went rogue on Moms on Call (they don’t recommend dream feeding) but it really worked for us from 15 weeks to 5 months. I literally would creep into the nursery every night at 10pm, pick him up from the crib still asleep and nurse him on one side before gently putting him back down. I did this every night for two months and never once did he actually wake up. Well, I finally quit doing it because it was clear he was sleeping just fine without it and he did not NEED that extra milk to get him through the night. There are different methods to going about dropping the DF but I just went cold turkey on him. I sort of expected him to be up all night the night I quit doing it but…nothing. He slept on right through the 10pm hour and didn’t wake up till 6:30 the next day. I think it was actually harder on me to quit the DF than it was for him. I really enjoyed going in there every night and feeding him like that — it was extremely sweet. However, I started to feel chained to doing it and that I had to be in there at exactly 10pm every night to feed, which meant that if Adam and I were out on a date we had to be home by 10.

So, now I feed at 7am, 11am, 3pm and at 6:45pm he gets a pumped bottle. He’s down to two good naps a day with a third catnap in the late afternoon, which is going great.

grayson 5 months-9411

All in all, I just feel so lucky to be his mom. I feel like he’s already such a fun goofy kid. We have so much to look forward to this next month like a weekend trip to Yosemite, my mom coming to visit and traveling to Texas for Thanksgiving. We are very blessed.

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sweater Everlane

shoesEverlane

jeansAnthropologie

SunglassesNordstrom

WrapEllevill

Leather cuff braceletFarmgirl Paints

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  • Amanda
    October 21, 2014 at 1:30 pm

    It sounds like you two are really getting the hang of things. They get so much more fun with time. I’m slightly envious of his amazing sleep routine as my 14 month old is lacking in the area. Yay for hanging out from 4 to 6:30 a.m. Enjoy your time with him… they grow up too quickly!

  • Julie
    October 21, 2014 at 1:34 pm

    He is so stinkin’ cute!! Glad you guys are settling in. 🙂

  • Laura @ SheEatsWell
    October 21, 2014 at 1:37 pm

    He’s got the cutest, happiest expressions. Clearly you guys are doing an amazing job! Love seeing the pictures – always brings a smile to my face!

  • Dana
    October 21, 2014 at 1:39 pm

    Have you tried beechnut baby food products? Love them!

  • Chelsea @ Designs on Dinner
    October 21, 2014 at 2:09 pm

    I love his happy little chubby face! What a handsome boy. It’s nice to see you two are getting into a routine.

  • Laura
    October 21, 2014 at 2:10 pm

    This is such a fun age! Ellie Rae is the same, sleep wise, but that’s all I will say for fear of jinxing us!! I love seeing them learn so many new things, too.

  • Hillary | Nutrition Nut on the Run
    October 21, 2014 at 2:11 pm

    What sweet photos of Mom & Son… and you look stylin’ in your Ray-bans!

  • Ella
    October 21, 2014 at 2:16 pm

    So sweet 🙂 Great job, Jenna!

  • Jill
    October 21, 2014 at 2:21 pm

    He’s so cute! And it sounds like you’ve got things going in a good routine!

  • Andrea
    October 21, 2014 at 2:41 pm

    I need to know more about the moms on call. Did you do the class? get the book? Use the swaddle? Is it a schedule or a method? Clue us in 🙂

    • jenna
      October 21, 2014 at 2:59 pm

      I read the book! I used their swaddle but only for three weeks before we moved to a wool sleep sack. Grayson did not like being swaddled

  • Nichole
    October 21, 2014 at 3:36 pm

    Hi Jenna! Grayson is too cute! My son is just shy of five months (will be five months on the 30th) and we have the nighttime sleep down (he sleeps from about 7:30p – 6a with a dream feed at 10p) but naps are rough! What time does Grayson take his two naps during the day? I just went back to work and I’d love to get my son on a more predictable daytime schedule for the nanny since lately he seems to be all over the place. Any insight you have would be awesome and greatly appreciated! Thanks so much for sharing – I love reading what a fellow mom is going through and you are right, the months just keep getting better and better – so fun!

    • jenna
      October 21, 2014 at 3:51 pm

      He takes naps from 9-10:30, from 12:30-2:30 and from 4:30-5:10ish 🙂

  • Laura
    October 21, 2014 at 4:02 pm

    Cutie pie! I love babywearing, too. It’s SO much easier than trying to navigate a stroller through a crowd (though sometimes the stroller was worth it if he was going to be getting in and out often), and can be much easier to do things like grocery shop. If he’s in the little grocery cart seat I often find myself reshelving items he’s pulled or saying, “We’ll eat it when we get home. We’ll eat it when we get home.” as he tries to grab everything out of the cart!

    (…. and my two year old (25 months) is 23 pounds. Ha! I guess our little guys are at the opposite ends of the percentile ranges! 🙂

  • ashley
    October 21, 2014 at 4:04 pm

    My little guy is almost 3 months and we just started the moms on call method. He’s having a really hard time making it 3 hours between feedings and I feel like he’s crying all of the time. Forget sleeping all night… It really is frustrating. I think I’m going to try pumping his last bottle and doing the dreamfeed. Fingers crossed! Btw, Grayson is just adorable 🙂

    • Grace
      October 22, 2014 at 5:28 am

      All babies are different – remember, breastmilk digests in less than two hours, and at three months very few doctors or “experts” would recommend anything but feeding on demand. My daughter nursed on demand for the first year, I never did any sleep training or crying at all, and she is perfectly happy, healthy and sleeps like a champ now at 2.5 (she will literally ask to go to bed, walk upstairs, lay down and put herself to sleep). And when she was an infant, she very very rarely cried; I never experienced the “witching hour” or anything like that – because I would just feed her when she was hungry! Remember, listen to your heart and do what feels best for you and YOUR baby, not what some book or person on the Internet tells you (me, included, ha!). The baby phase is SO short and you will sleep again, it will go by quicker than you can imagine!

      • Ashley
        October 29, 2014 at 2:25 pm

        Thank you so much for this. I have a perfect little four month old and I’ve felt so pressured to let her cry it out at naps. My little one never fries unless something is really wrong so it didn’t feel right to push her to that point. Thanks again. Now I know I’m not damaging her.

  • Dana
    October 21, 2014 at 5:01 pm

    Hey Jenna!
    I just wanted to saw that I am so happy for you! You will make a great mother and you look great right now! You are positively glowing 🙂
    Keeping you and your lovely family in my prayers!

  • Nicole @ Broken Road Creative
    October 21, 2014 at 5:09 pm

    He’s so handsome!
    And Jenna, you look great! I’d love to read your approach to diet and fitness since you’ve had Grayson! I just passed the six week mark since having my second baby and haven’t done much other than walking so far. Well, I have done some squats, lunges, etc. with my daughter in my Moby wrap, lol! 😀

  • Caroline
    October 21, 2014 at 5:10 pm

    I love reading your posts about Grayson. Most of my friends aren’t to the baby stage yet, and you make it seem a lot less intimidating, while still being honest.
    Thanks dear!

  • Amy
    October 21, 2014 at 5:27 pm

    Seriously? He’s just too cute!

  • Laura
    October 21, 2014 at 5:50 pm

    Hey Jenna! I’m loving your Grayson updates because my baby girl is about 2 weeks behind him =). I saw that you commented above about Grayson’s nap schedule. My daughter is about the same, except that for most naps lately she wakes up at 45 minutes into a lot of her naps (which is a sleep cycle), and cannot get herself back to sleep without my help. We always put her down awake, and she sleeps 12 hours at night, so it’s not like she doesn’t know how to self-soothe! She does usually go down with the paci, but it falls out and she doesn’t wake up when that happens.
    Anyway – just wanting to know if you ever experience the “45-minute intruder” as it’s sometimes called!

    • AshleyL
      October 21, 2014 at 8:36 pm

      My daughter is 4 months and sounds exactly the same. Her first two naps are great and will so,eti,es get past the 45 min. Mark but her third nap she can never get back to sleep!
      Any advice Jenna?

  • Maryea {happy healthy mama}
    October 21, 2014 at 6:21 pm

    This is such a sweet update! His expressions are adorable and I can hear the love in your words. 🙂

  • Christina @ The Beautiful Balance
    October 21, 2014 at 6:39 pm

    Oh my sweetness, those cheeks are precious!!

  • Jennifer
    October 21, 2014 at 6:39 pm

    He’s precious!! We do the same thing with food! I make a lot, but the organic pouches are great when we are out and about or traveling to visit family. Moms on Call has worked great for us! The app is wonderful.

  • Caitlin T
    October 21, 2014 at 6:49 pm

    I love those cheeks! He also has the most beautiful eyes.

  • Alex
    October 21, 2014 at 6:57 pm

    Hi Jenna! I love your blog and especially love hearing about your beautiful boy. Sounds like you are doing an awesome job! My son is 2 weeks behind yours, but not sleeping nearly as well! May I ask what time you pump and what size bottle Grayson has at night? I can’t seem to find the optimal time. Thank you!!

    • jenna
      October 21, 2014 at 7:35 pm

      I pump at 9am and at 5pm – he drinks a 9 oz bottle before bed 😉

      • Grace
        October 22, 2014 at 5:30 am

        A 9 oz bottle? WOW! That is crazy! The average baby eats a 4-5 oz bottle max at that age! I can’t even image! No wonder he is such a big baby!

        • Laura
          October 22, 2014 at 5:34 am

          Baha. My girl who is 2 weeks older than Grayson and weighs 15 lbs can drink that much at night as well!! Filling them up for a nice long sleep : )

          • Grace
            October 22, 2014 at 5:48 am

            Wow, I can’t even imagine! My little girl ate every two hours when she was that age, and on the rare occasion when I had to pump a bottle and give it to her, she could barely finish three ounces, and that took her half an hour!
            But I’m also a huge proponent of intuitive eating (obesity runs in my family and I want to give my daughter every advantage to help her avoid it if she can ) and I really didn’t want to break any of her natural hunger cues, so I just let her develop her own natural eating patterns. To me that was more important than me getting a little extra sleep. 🙂

          • jenna
            October 22, 2014 at 6:55 am

            Happy you found something that works for your family!

        • Sarah
          October 22, 2014 at 7:05 am

          9oz is like 2x my babies feeding. I said the same thing – no wonder!

          • Jaime
            October 22, 2014 at 9:34 am

            I am sorry but 9 oz of breastmilk in one sitting is insane. Thats not my personal opinion, that goes against what every book, pediatrician and lactation consultant said. Breast milk is different than formula and the VOLUME of breastmilk that babies need doesnt really change much, unlike formula which you have to give more as the baby grows.

          • jenna
            October 22, 2014 at 9:42 am

            Our pediatrician said that a 9 oz bottle of pumped milk is just fine for Grayson. We go by what she says. Thanks for everyone’s input though!

          • Ashley
            October 22, 2014 at 11:32 am

            Haha it is funny to me that everyone seems to feel like they’re an expert on this. If you and your pediatrician have a plan that’s working, I think that speaks for itself. He’s obviously a very happy and healthy boy!

          • Ashley
            October 29, 2014 at 2:43 pm

            When I read those comments I wish I could come over and hug you and then share a glass a wine and laugh at how stupid people can be. I say just delete every comment like that. Maybe they’ll get the idea.

          • Sarah
            October 23, 2014 at 5:11 am

            omg. who cares. leave her alone! there’s no reason for you to post this. her son eats 9 oz of breastmilk. WHO CARES.

  • Katie
    October 21, 2014 at 7:20 pm

    Wow! 22 pounds! Babywearing is a workout then! I have a 2.5 year old that weighs 27 pounds, so this totally cracks me up!

    • Sarah
      October 22, 2014 at 7:03 am

      Me too!!! I just told my husband and his jaw dropped hahha he said he wonders how much the kid will weigh as a toddler and hopes he’s ok with all that weight. No wonder he’s sleeping so well hahah

      • jenna
        October 22, 2014 at 7:12 am

        Thanks, Sarah. I can assure Grayson is just fine “with all that weight” but you’re so polite to comment on it and wonder. Our pediatrician says he is a perfectly healthy little boy. I do appreciate your concern though. 🙂

        • Sarah
          October 22, 2014 at 8:41 am

          I didn’t mean “all that weight” to come across negatively. My apologies if it did. He is just obviously on the high end of the percentile. I legitimately was concerned. I had not heard of 3 meals so quickly. Glad he is healthy and well!!! And happy!!

          • Kate
            October 23, 2014 at 9:16 am

            Wow, this was such an offensive comment. Every baby is so different, commenting on the perceived health is none of your business. I have a 3 year old in our family that has been on the heavier side from an infant to a toddler and I cannot even count the number of unnecessary comments people make. It makes me feel very sensitive to the issue even though I am not a mother. As he is growing older, he is growing up and filling just fine, just as the pediatricians said. People’s opinions are just not warranted on this sensitive issue of weight and obesity, most definitely not with newborns.

      • Lauren
        October 23, 2014 at 9:21 am

        Seriously? That’s a horrible thing to post. Every baby is different.

        • Sarah
          October 24, 2014 at 3:28 pm

          I apologized if it came across negatively. It is obvious that he is on the higher end of percentile – Jenna has even said he is a larger baby. That is fine. I just wanted to make sure he was healthy. My son is on the exact opposite end – and I make sure he is healthy. I don’t care what anyone does as long as the baby is healthy and well snd Grayson is. I’m happy for Jenna and Grayson! I’m not being insensitive and never once discussed obesity. Just curious cause I never knew you could give a 5mo old 3 meals of solids. That is all.

  • Catherine
    October 21, 2014 at 7:59 pm

    You are so lucky to have such a minimal feeding schedule at 5 months! My baby was still nursing 7-8 times a day (and night) at 5 months and I was tired! Have you heard of reusable baby food pouches? They are pouches you fill with your homemade baby food and are easy and economical. I recently wrote a post about them because I love them so much. http://www.makingmealtime.com/blog/2014/10/15/best-kept-secret-feedingbabies

  • Ellen
    October 21, 2014 at 8:47 pm

    Hi Jenna! I absolutely LOVE your blog, following you on Instagram, Pinterest, etc. I am actually a junior in college and still totally love all of the baby posts mixed in with your recipes. It’s my favorite lifestyle blog by far! And Grayson is adorable 🙂

  • Kay @ Kay Bueno
    October 21, 2014 at 8:51 pm

    What a great update, he’s such a doll.

    Your wrap is so cute and he looks so happy in it, I can’t imagine anything more comfortable than that.

  • Karen
    October 21, 2014 at 10:24 pm

    This is sad for me to read because there is so much brain research out there demonstrating the infant stress response to sleep training. Yes, infants stop crying once they know their attempts to get their parents’ needs met are futile. However,
    their stress hormones still shoot up evey single night. This has well-documented impacts on the brain. Not sure if you already thought of this, but his “witching hour” may be a result of the impending separation he knows is coming each night.

    • Gina
      October 22, 2014 at 12:23 pm

      Karen,
      I’m not sure if you have a child of your own, but you should know that many babies, sleep trained or not, go through the witching hour. Its causes vary among many factors from neurological development, over-tiredness to hunger (many young babies also need to cluster-feed during the evening). I think its pretty cruel to suggest to Jenna that her sleep training methods are causing the witching hour in her son.

      As a parent who never sleep trained and now has a very poorly-sleeping three-year-old, I regret not training when she was a baby. I will certainly do it with kid #2.

      In any case, sleep is a real hot button topic and it’s not fair to critique other people’s parenting choices. We are all the best parents for our own children.

      • Jess
        October 22, 2014 at 5:20 pm

        I agree that sleeping training is a hot issue with parents. I never rally sleep trained my three year old and she sleeps like a dream. I’m not training my 14 month old either. Aside from training some people are better sleepers than others at every age.

        I also don’t think that she wa trying to say Jenna was cussing it but rather it could be a symptom of anticipation of a long seperation and studies she’s familiar with.

    • Marla
      October 23, 2014 at 7:00 am

      While I 100%, completely and totally understand why some parents are anti-sleep training, and I couldn’t care less about what you or Jenna or any other mom does to care for her children… the ‘brain research’ that you refer to is being mis-quoted and misinterpreted here (not blaming you, I’m sure you read about it from someone else who misunderstood it).

      While there is evidence to show that extended stress in babies can cause issues, there is NOTHING that has proven that allowing a child to self soothe at night in a home that is loving and caring qualifies as extended stress. Here are some articles that explain it and talks about the actual research that was done: http://www.slate.com/articles/double_x/the_kids/2013/07/clinical_lactation_jumps_on_the_dr_sears_bandwagon_to_say_sleep_training.html
      http://scienceofmom.com/2012/02/06/the-cry-it-out-controversy-and-my-familys-sleep-story/

      I would NEVER in a million years say that a mom should sleep train who is not comfortable with it. However, I’m sharing this because if parents decide that it is the best decision for their family (for many, it is, considering that research DOES show that having a depressed caregiver is damaging, and sleep deprivation is a major contributor to PPD) they should not have to feel unfounded guilt based on misinformation.

  • Marie-Sophie
    October 21, 2014 at 10:37 pm

    5months already, time flies!! I am 39 weeks pregnant and loved reading your whole journey! <3 Like another reader above I'd also be interested in a post about diet&fitness postpartum (also how you managed with a baby and with a working husband,since mine is always working long hours,as a lawyer, from 8am to 8pm or later) ! Any tips would be appreciated! Oh, and even though I haben't puton a lot of weight during pregnancy, unfortunately I didn't have a very "fit" one since I had to rest a lot and wasn't allowed most workouts (not even prenatal yoga) for the fear of premature labor. (and now the little lady will let us wait, I'm sure ;-))

  • Ashton
    October 22, 2014 at 5:24 am

    Looking forward to the baby wearing post. My first one is due in February and I can’t wait to wear him. I actually have a solly wrap headed to my door this week!

  • Jennifer
    October 22, 2014 at 5:46 am

    Wow! He seems MUCH more like a 10 month old than 5 month old. Incredible!

    Which Everlane shoes are you wearing? I have been eying the loafers.

    • jenna
      October 22, 2014 at 6:57 am

      These are the loafers in the olive color 🙂

  • clare @ fitting it all in
    October 22, 2014 at 6:22 am

    He’s so darling and I’m glad to hear you both are doing so well!!

  • Sarah
    October 22, 2014 at 7:00 am

    Holy crap! My son is 9mo old and I’m hoping he’s near 20lbs and only eats 2x a day (all homemade) and still nurses 5x a day. I couldn’t imagine how big he’ll be at 9mo. Can I ask, did moms on call have you giving him so many solids so soon? And a 9oz bottle at night? Is he off the charts for his age? This is literally blowing my mind.

    • jenna
      October 22, 2014 at 7:04 am

      Yes, both MOC and our pediatrician.

    • Stace
      October 22, 2014 at 7:37 am

      My youngest nephew was 22 lbs. at 5 months as well and he had just started on solid foods at just over 5 months so it was only milk up to that point. He also wanted more ounces (8-9 oz.) but less feedings per day. He was 95th percentile but his ped. always said it was perfectly normal becuase all babies are different. He is now 2 and a half and has been measuring exactly average for height and weight the last year.

      • Ashley
        October 29, 2014 at 2:40 pm

        This makes curious to how many ounces my daughter drinks. She’s 4 months and is on a similar schedule but since I only breastfeed I have no idea.

        Jenna, when you put him in his cribs for naps is he drowsy or wide awake. I’ve beenrocking my baby until she’s almost asleep and then putting her in her crib. Sometimes she cries a little bit not much. Also during the fourth month growth spurt was your daughter eating all the time. My daughter started eating twice as much today! And she turns 4 months on Sunday. Just curious thanks. 🙂 you seem like such an amazing mom. Makes me jealous. 🙂

  • Annie
    October 22, 2014 at 7:15 am

    We didn’t experience the 4 month sleep regression either – part of me feels like, the more you acknowledge these phases/leaps/regressions – the more they rear their ugly head! Anyway, I CANNOT wait for your baby wearing post…looking for a new wrap for #2 (due in 6 weeks), something with less material (or just less overwhelming?!?!) than the Moby!

  • Lindsey @ SimplyLindsey
    October 22, 2014 at 7:51 am

    He is such a cutie! 🙂 Love these updates!

  • Jess
    October 22, 2014 at 7:55 am

    He’s adorable. He’s about the same size as my 14 month old and only a few pounds smaller than my 3 year old. It’s amazing how different babies are.

    I know every baby and family is different but I saw earlier in the comments that you give him a 9 oz bottle of breastmilk. That is about double what a baby should get even at a year. Breastmilk composition changes so you don’t need to significantly increase ounces as you would for formula. Kellymom has this great milk calculator for bottles: http://kellymom.com/bf/pumpingmoms/pumping/milkcalc/. It’s so easy to overfeed a breastfed baby from a bottle because it’s easier for them to drink from than the breast.

    I’m still nursing my 14 month old and neither one of my kids ever drank more than 5 oz at a single feeding, even at nearly 2. Just food for though.

    • jenna
      October 22, 2014 at 7:56 am

      Thanks, Jess. Our pediatrician says our 9 oz bottle is just fine for Grayson. I appreciate your input though.

    • Grace
      October 22, 2014 at 8:25 am

      I’ll second this, Kellymom.com is a great resource.
      The main issue with bottle overfeeding is that is “breaks” a baby’s natural hunger cues – the signal the stomach gives the brain to stop eating when full. The brain development in the first few years is so, so crucial; this is the time when the neural pathways are developed for the rest of their lives. This is why scheduled feeding and bottle feeding are both linked to obesity later in life, for a number of reasons. If the brain has been trained early on to ignore the feelings of satiety because of imposed artificial food scarcity, the child will eat as much as they can when they can. Babies can also eat so much more with a bottle (and sometimes are physically unable to stop eating: naturally, with the breast, the baby will alternate between a nutritive and non-nutritive suck over the course of a feed. With the bottle, the milk is forced into their mouth with each suck, which triggers the next sucking reflex, even if the baby doesn’t want another mouthful of milk). Also, when the baby is fed on demand at the breast, the mother produces only what the baby needs at that time, and scheduling and bottle feeding disrupts this natural balance of supply and demand. There’s been quite a bit of evidence that scheduling feeding in infancy is linked to a higher BMI later in life. Kellymom has a great resource on how to bottle feed a breastfed baby to help avoid overeating, and the benefits of feeding on demand.

      • Sarah
        October 22, 2014 at 8:50 am

        Grace this was very interesting!
        I don’t know much about moms on call so maybe someone can answer this for me – why do they say to bottle feed before bed as opposed to just breastfeeding? I only bottle fed when I had to (i.e at work) and only 4oz. Does MOC tell you how many ounces to give a baby in the bottle at night?! Since every baby is different I was just curious the reasoning behind it

        • Laura
          October 22, 2014 at 9:26 am

          Good grief!! I think a child’s risk of obesity is probably closer related to their parents own history of weight and eating.

          MOC recommends giving 7 oz of milk at bedtime so you can see for yourself how much milk they are getting. That way you know if they drink the whole bottle, and they wake up shortly after, you can eliminate the question of if they are hungry and actually respond to their cues and needs. Responding to every cry from a baby as a cry for hunger ignores what they are really asking for.

          It’s a personal decision and it’s not life and death. : )

        • Hannah
          October 22, 2014 at 9:48 am

          I’ve found MOC to be very neutral on the breastfeeding/bottlefeeding front. They say that if you’d like your child to be able to take a bottle, then to do one bottle feeding a day, and they recommend the bedtime bottle for this because you can see how much baby is taking in, and know that they are getting a nice good feed (this should be the best feed of the day, ounce-wise, to help sustain baby through the night with minimal middle of the night feeds). And yes, they recommend different amounts of ounces by the baby’s age… 2-4 weeks is 3-4 ounces a feed, 4-8 weeks is 4-6 ounces a feed, 8-16 weeks is 6-8 ounces a feed. Obviously, if you are breastfeeding, then baby just gets what they need on their own, and then MOC recommends that for the nighttime bottle feed that you make a bottle on the smaller end of the spectrum (ex: 3ounces for a baby 2-4 weeks) and if baby finishes that in a certain timeframe that I can’t remember..pregnancy brain.. then you can offer them more in half ounce incrememnts, until you figure out how much baby needs for that nighttime feed.

          Again, every baby is different so what is a huge amount for one baby is a normal amount for another… Just like with people 🙂

      • Mish
        October 22, 2014 at 3:37 pm

        I have insufficent glandular tissue. Yep the unlucky 1:1000 women who can not ever
        Produce enough milk. I could pump 150mls in 24hrs pumping 20min every 2hrs. I took domperidone, herbs etc.

        We have to bottle feed. I tried to relatch at 10 weeks with a supply line but she refused after three weeks. I drive hours to get donor milk and feed her Holle formula which is the most expensive stuff out there.

        We have to bottle feed. We use medela teats so it doesn’t dribble down her throat, etc. The issue with shaming bottle feeding moms and telling them they going to make their kids unhealthy is that for some of use we’ve tried everything. I drive three hours to pick up donor milk to ease my grief. I don’t use bulking agents or rice cereal to make her sleep. I feed her whenever she wakes in the night. Sometimes it’s ease to paint “all those sleep scheduling, bottle feeding
        Mamas” with the same brush. But pleas be mindful they there are some of us out there would have sobbed in grief and have sought counseling because we can’t breastfeed. Who have fine above and beyond to pace bottle feed, buy the bottles that the best, who tried to re latch. Etc.

        Sometimes, that is the best we can do.

        • Jess
          October 22, 2014 at 5:26 pm

          I wasn’t and I don’t think Anyone was trying to shame bottle feeders. My kids had bottles when they went to daycare and when I had to travel for work. There is nothing wrong with bottles or formula. I was simply pointing out that studies have shown breastmilk changesin composition so you don’t need to increase ounces like you do with formula. Additionally because it’s easier to suck milk from a bottle than a breast they eat faster and can be over fed. I’m sorry for your struggles. I was very lucly to have a healthy supply and able to donate milk.

          • Steph
            October 23, 2014 at 10:55 am

            I exclusively pumped for my son from 2.5 months on, as he developed a bottle preference around that time. I had read the same information on kellymom, and was keeping him at 4oz bottles. Around 4 months, I noticed that he was extremely fussy, to the point that I even took him to the ped to check his ears in case of infection. When nothing came back wrong, I decided to increase his bottles just to see. Turns out, kellymom isn’t the be all end all for every baby. My poor guy wasn’t satisfied with 4oz. He continued to increase the size of his bottles up to 8oz until solids increased significantly around 9mo (and would always push the bottle away if he was full). His height and weight have stayed on the same curve, indicating no concern about over feeding. My point being, no one resource is going to be the right resource for every mom or baby. While, yes, breastmilk changes, some babies simply need more than 4oz to be satiated.

      • jenna
        October 22, 2014 at 6:01 pm

        Look. Thanks for telling me all about this, but the way I choose to raise my child really isn’t for debate at all. I was merely sharing what works for us but it’s honestly no one’s business even to criticize the choices we’ve made as parents. This is what we do and what we will continue to do. For us, it works and Grayson is happy, healthy and thriving. You are free to do whatever you like. I love Kellymom.com and have referenced it on several occasions. Thank you for all the information but the debate stops here.

        • Gina
          October 23, 2014 at 8:38 am

          Kudos to you, Jenna. Well said.

          I hope all this criticism/commentary doesn’t deter you from writing about your family. It’s ridiculous!

        • Amanda
          October 23, 2014 at 10:44 am

          Reading these comments proves that Mommy Wars is alive and well. It is so sad and downright pathetic.
          Thank you Jenna for sharing what works for you. Your family is beautiful, and you seem to be thriving and doing a great job at mothering that sweet boy. He looks healthy and happy and at the end of the day you can find peace in that.
          I think as women and mothers we should encourage and lift one another up. What works for one family might not be ideal for the next and THAT IS OKAY! Criticizing when it is obvious that the child is well loved and taken care of is shameful. Cheers to you for not feeding into the debate!

        • Annie
          October 24, 2014 at 7:04 pm

          AMEN!

  • Rachel
    October 22, 2014 at 8:16 am

    He’s so cute I can’t even stand it 🙂 I want to pinch his little cheeks. (In a nice way, not a mean painful way lol.)

  • krista@pastryinparis
    October 22, 2014 at 8:19 am

    You look beautiful Jenna! Grayson is adorable and you look so happy 🙂

  • krista
    October 22, 2014 at 8:21 am

    You look beautiful Jenna! Grayson is adorable 🙂

  • Jodi
    October 22, 2014 at 10:08 am

    Just the cutest. – and yes – every month will be your best month yet. So fun being a mom – isn’t it??

  • Jennifer @ Show Me the Yummy
    October 22, 2014 at 10:55 am

    Really nice post! Thanks for the tips…my husband and I just got married a month ago and although, we’re still a few years away from having little ones, it’s never too early to start your research! He’s too cute, btw 🙂

  • Kim
    October 22, 2014 at 11:19 am

    It is blowing my mind here how many people are chiming in with “their two cents” on the size and habits of your child. I am a mom of 3 and have learned over the years that most of the time, moms actually do know their own kids better than strangers do 🙂 I always love your Grayson updates!

    • Cat
      October 23, 2014 at 9:26 am

      Seriously, I totally agree. It is mind blowing that people actually take the time to disagree about how much breastmilk someone else’s child is getting. Jenna, I really hope these crazy comments don’t discourage you from posting in the future.

      • Julie
        October 23, 2014 at 1:41 pm

        I was thinking the same thing! Not to mention the rude comments about Grayson’s size – I think he’s adorable! I much prefer a chubby baby to one that looks all scrawny. Jenna, you’re doing a great job (& you look absolutely fabulous btw!). Thanks for sharing w/ us; I really hope you’ll continue to do so.

        • Marie
          October 23, 2014 at 5:21 pm

          Wow – that’s a little insensitive as well. I get what you’re saying. Grayson’s size is fine. He’s healthy and that’s really all that matters. Chubby babies are adorable (I have one of my own). “Scrawny” babies are just as adorable – I would know. My older child was a “scrawny” baby but just as beautiful.

          • lindsey
            October 24, 2014 at 7:03 pm

            Agree entirely, ALL babies are sweet, big or small! And honestly, as women seem to be the ones making unnecessary “WHOA overfed/big baby” comments ( and a few husbands as i’ve read), I hope we can stop commenting on kid’s size from the day they’re born. I feel like it’s just breeding insecurities at a young age (and inserting unnecessary doubt and worry on the mother). These types of “observations” aren’t appropriate or necessary at this age, and who says when it’s suddenly “taboo” to comment about their size, big or small? Can we just say it’s never appropriate to “worry” aloud to a mother about her cute, happy baby? Just because, in this case, Grayson, isn’t old enough to understand this discussion, doesn’t mean it isn’t sad that ADULTS make such unnecessary comments. Focus on your own family and if you’re really worried about the amount of nutrients Jenna feeds her baby, or any other mother for that matter, go on ahead and pray for them 🙂

    • Amanda
      October 23, 2014 at 10:46 am

      WELL SAID!

  • jennifer (take the day off blog)
    October 22, 2014 at 1:02 pm

    three cheers for Moms on Call! We did a hybrid MOC and babywise schedule (they are very similar) and it worked wonders! We started laying the groundwork at two weeks and she was sleeping straight through the night by 8 weeks. It made for a happy baby and a happy, well rested mama 🙂

  • Rachel
    October 22, 2014 at 1:23 pm

    Hi Jenna! I’m a blog reader and mom of five. I’m not at all a fan of the ‘mommy wars’ whether it be about breastfeeding/formula feeding, WAHM/SATM, etc. I am also a lactation counselor. In general, any program that suggests nursing on a schedule is not up to date on the current breastfeeding recommendations. The AAP also does not recommend feeding on a schedule. The research also shows that encouraging babies to sleep through the night too early (before 6 months) increases the risk of SIDS. This is also why the AAP does not recommend that babies sleep in a separate room – when babies get in too deep of a sleep they are not neurologically able to arouse themselves – at least that is one theory. This all said, everyone has the right to parent as they wish.

    I have been there as a young first-time mom where it feels like you won’t be able to make it through the exhaustion and like these days will never end. But they do. My oldest is now 9 1/2 and with each baby, I have learned to enjoy them more. Have you yet experienced the onslaught of empty nesters who tell you “Enjoy this! It goes so fast!” ? They say that because it’s true. And I am not speaking as one out of the trenches. I currently have a 2 month old and man, I am savoring every moment with her. I just wish someone would have whispered this wisdom in my ear years ago, but then so glad I learned it along the way. 🙂

    • Laura Ann
      October 22, 2014 at 7:56 pm

      Well said! I look at the night feedings from the perspective of – it’s more time to snuggle my son. This time is so fleeting!

    • Cat
      October 23, 2014 at 9:30 am

      I think the pediatrician probably knows best, and if he is in agreement then that is all that matters. I’d take the recommendation of a physician over a lactation person.

      • Rachel
        October 23, 2014 at 2:58 pm

        The AAP is the American Academy of Pediatrics – they set the standards that pediatricians are to follow. Anyway, I was not trying to critique Jenna’s parenting at all. Everyone has to do what works for their family. I just get the feeling that there are a lot of first time parents who read this blog and sometimes first time parents can equate how well their baby sleeps with how good of a parent they are. It’s one of the most awesome parts about /not/being a first time parent – no one cares where your baby is on the growth charts, how well they sleep, where they sleep, etc. If you had one good sleeper, often the second won’t be, and so on. My first was a horrible sleeper, we did try cry it out, and now I really regret it. It’s such a short time and the number of days in one’s life that you have to rock your baby to sleep are so short in the grand scheme of things. I know so many empty nesters who have expressed regret for not savoring those moments more. I think it’s such a common regret that it’s basically a cliche now. So I just want to encourage those whose babies don’t fall into that schedule. Babies have such small tummies and 3 or 4 squares a day is just not going to work for most babies – or preschoolers for that matter.

  • Mish
    October 22, 2014 at 2:32 pm

    Well, I think you’re doing an excellent job. We use MOC with flexibility. I think anything too rigid or unstructured is not healthy. I know you get this. We get comments ALL the time on how happy and adjusted our baby is. She has routine and predictability in her life. We respond to her needs and she’s growing.

    You’ll never win as a mom., especially as a blogger. This type of “advice giving” is why I shut two of my FB Accounts down.

    Just do what you’re doing, and he’s obvi thriving. Xo

  • Gen
    October 22, 2014 at 3:07 pm

    Just wanted to observe how hard it must be to put yourself and your family out on the internet and receive judgment from others. It’s wild to me that women continue to make life harder for other women by scrutinizing every little move they make…when in reality, we should be one another’s biggest support system! It sounds like you’re doing exactly what you should be for your family, and your son is happy and healthy (and gorgeous!) Keep on keepin’ on, and thanks for sharing a little bit of your life with us–I’m glad you guys are having so much fun together! 🙂

    • Mish
      October 22, 2014 at 3:29 pm

      Amen

  • Lynn
    October 22, 2014 at 4:12 pm

    This little boy is perfect in every way 🙂

  • Becky @ Farmgirl Paints
    October 22, 2014 at 4:24 pm

    Motherhood looks good on you and He’s beyond adorable!!!

  • Melissa
    October 22, 2014 at 4:51 pm

    So adorable and chunky and you look great! Glad you have a good routine with him… Love these posts -such fun 🙂

  • Tiffany
    October 22, 2014 at 5:33 pm

    You look like a supermodel! Grayson is so. stinking. cute. We’re expecting our little boy soon and your pics are making me so excited!!

    Btw – our daughter is a very picky eater (it’s quite ridiculous) and people always have something to say about it and how we feed her…food seems to be some hot button topic! Just let it roll off your shoulders. You know your kid better than anyone!

  • Natalie
    October 22, 2014 at 8:58 pm

    Good for you Jenna! It’s not easy being a mom and putting your life out there for others to read. I’m glad you stood up for yourself. You’re a great mommy and raising an adorable thriving little boy!
    I’m a first time mom to a 4 month old and have enjoyed reading about your mom my journey. My 4 month old weighs 21 pounds already and was easily eating 6-8+ ounce bottles by 10 weeks if we let him. 4 ounces just didn’t satisfy him and he’d suck down another 4 ounces like nobody’s business! Each baby is different and we all have the right to raise them how we see fit! I really appreciate your updates. I need to try out Hannah Andersson as I can’t find any pants to fit his cloth diapered big booty 🙂
    P.S. I might try a big bottle instead of breastfeeding tomorrow night with the hopes he’ll sleep for longer than 2-3 hours at a time!

  • lindsey
    October 22, 2014 at 10:19 pm

    He is so so precious!! I know you hear all.the.time how much he looks like your husband but I bet he’s going to start taking on characteristics from you really soon! (if he isn’t already:) ) i had a husband lookalike daughter and never heard the end of it! You both look fantastic and your future trips sound amazing!! My 18 mo old certainly hasn’t seen that much of the US yet!

  • Madeline
    October 23, 2014 at 4:14 am

    Eek, lots of debate on here ! I am soon due with my first (in a few weeks), and it’s great he has settled into a routine that works for all of you.
    I am wondering though what diapers you are using? I know there were a couple of different kinds of covers you used in the beginning, I am hoping to cloth diaper and am wondering what kind would be OK for 12 hours without irritation or leaks. Or do they not do that much in their sleep? Haha I have a lot to learn when the baby comes, obviously ! Do you have to change him through the night? This isn’t meant to be offensive. I ordered the MOC book tonight and can’t wait to read it !

  • Lesley
    October 23, 2014 at 6:36 am

    Hi Jenna!

    Apologies if you already discussed this and I missed it, but has Grayson started teething already? If so, did that affect his sleep patterns at all?

    Thanks!

  • Erin
    October 23, 2014 at 8:31 am

    Hi Jenna!

    I’ve been a blog reader of yours since my college days at age 20. Now, I’m 28. I’ve been married for over 2 years, have a beautiful 15 month old, and that’s why I continue to read your blog. I feel like I’ve grown and matured with you and it’s amazing. I have never commented on any of your posts, but I just wanted to tell you that I hope you never stop letting us in on your life. You have been a great food, exercise, and mommy outlet for me to refer to. You’re doing amazing and I can’t wait for more updates on your life and family. I too have a little chub-a-lub as I like to call her and have gotten the comments such as “She’s gonna be bigger than you by the time she’s 4”, “What do you feed her” “Hopefully she thins out when she’s older”….Now let me tell you, she’s THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CHILD EVER! (nope, not bias at all 🙂 haha ) but from a woman who suffered from bingeing and purging for 7 long years, I make it my job to make sure that she grows up with a healthy view on food and exercise. Grayson is the cutest thing ever and I am excited for posts to come from you. 🙂 Have a wonderful day!!!!

    • lindsey
      October 24, 2014 at 7:04 pm

      what is wrong with people! Please, next time someone says something like that, say “gosh, I hope you thin out in a few years as well!” 😀

      • Erin
        October 27, 2014 at 9:58 am

        haha thanks! I agree, I need a good comeback. 😉

  • Jen
    October 23, 2014 at 11:07 am

    I don’t want any new moms who read this post who try a schedule for their baby but still can’t get them to sleep through the night to feel badly. My daughter is just a week older than Grayson, is also a big baby (18 lbs 6 oz at her four month appointment and breastfed only), and she’s never, ever been a good sleeper and even after working with an infant sleep expert she’s still nowhere near sleeping through the night.

    Note, this is NOT a comment on Jenna’s parenting style or anything like that, this is just for anyone who feels frustrated that their own baby isn’t taking to schedules well and/or isn’t sleeping as well as Grayson. All babies are different, and I wish I hadn’t spent so much time these first months of my daughter’s life worrying about and obsessing that other babies were sleeping so much better than she is.

    Some babies take well to schedules and can go longer between feedings. Some babies naturally have a better internal clock. Some babies sleep through the night earlier. If you’re a new mom or about to be a mom, please don’t spend time worrying about and comparing your baby to other babies, because they are so very different!

    That is all 🙂

  • Chelsea
    October 23, 2014 at 3:22 pm

    You look so healthy and gorgeous, Jenna! Grayson is a cutie!!

  • Stacey
    October 23, 2014 at 5:07 pm

    Wow. Just, wow. I don’t have kids (yet), but reading through these comments makes me never want to. Life is stressful enough as it is…why wade into something as challenging and complicated as parenthood when all anyone (strangers on the internet, no less) seems to do is criticize you, no matter what you do? All of you commenters offering unsolicited advice and backhanded “compliments” seem like really, really lovely people *sarcasm*. Maybe the women spending so much time blathering on and on about how their particular style of parenting is Right and everyone else is DEAD WRONG, ad nauseam, should spend some time working on being kinder, more compassionate people. Everyone’s just doing the best they can, and nonsense like this helps no one. In fact, it might be keeping people away from the Mommy Club. Sheeeeesh.

  • Stephanie
    October 23, 2014 at 6:06 pm

    There is nothing more hurtful to a mom than criticizing their parenting choices and/or their child. I really cannot believe the ignorant comments here. Poor Jenna.

    And fyi we are talking breastmilk, not cheeseburgers here. I have a toddler and a 4 month old and my pediatrician said that if they will drink it, then give it to them. Keep doing what you are doing Jenna. That boy is healthy and loved. 🙂

    • Hannah
      October 24, 2014 at 9:58 am

      I wish I could “like” this comment. I completely agree with you across the board.

    • Tonje
      October 24, 2014 at 12:48 pm

      I couldn’t agree more. Cannot believe some of the comments! My son is 4 months old and the size of a 8 month old (according to our pediatrician). But it’s perfectly normal, every baby is different! Why would anyone have an opinion on how much other people’s babies drink? Blows my mind..

  • Amy
    October 24, 2014 at 9:41 am

    Holy crap! All these opinionated, know-it-all commenters! Jenna I don’t know how you can even read through all of this junk. People, go harass and condemn each other on parenting blogs! That is not what this is! Goodness…unless you know Jenna personally (in which case you would not be commenting on a blog – you would tell her in person) keep your hurtful words to yourselves. Just ick.

  • Nicki
    October 24, 2014 at 11:37 am

    Jenna, you look amazing and Grayson is absolutely adorable!! I love these updates. I have no children and love reading blogs where people do. Thank you for these posts and showing us your family 🙂

  • Katie
    October 24, 2014 at 3:42 pm

    Jenna, nice work on just being you and doing your thing.

  • Grace at leangirlsclub
    October 24, 2014 at 7:20 pm

    He’s so adorable. I am crossing fingers that my future kid(s) sleep through the nights, because I don’t operate very well without sleep. I worry sometimes that I’m too selfish, too lazy, or not smart enough to be a parent. Eeeek!

  • Megan
    October 25, 2014 at 10:26 am

    Jenna, love your baby updates and your adorable baby. Any tips on helping an 8 week old get naps longer than 30-40 mins? Would you recommend the Merlin suit? We don’t have a great self-soother yet and when she wakes up too soon she is still a tad grumpy.

  • Jessica
    October 26, 2014 at 5:17 am

    You look like such a happy momma. This picture made me smile.

  • Monique @ Ambitious Kitchen
    October 26, 2014 at 8:27 pm

    Hi Jenna! I love your blog and your sweet photos of Grayson. He’s just so adorable! Keep doing what you do. It’s been wonderful to see your blog grow, change and to get a little glimpse into your life as a new mom. All the best!

  • Caitlyn G
    October 27, 2014 at 1:14 pm

    You two are both just absolutely beautiful. I love his chubbers legs and cheeks. Thank you for sharing your sweet baby, and your life, with us!

  • Helena Mouta
    October 29, 2014 at 7:55 am

    Your baby is sooo cute! Big, though! 🙂 I have a 1-month-old baby (my second) that is also just too sweet, and even though he still doesn’t have the sleep thing down (he is just one month old, after all), he’s still basically a calm, happy, easy going baby and I adore him. I’ve been thinking about getting some sort of wrap because it must be so much easier than lugging that cumbersome and not so comfortable infant car seat, even though it fits on his stroller. I am worried, though, that it won’t last me long… My baby is also big, already over 10 ponds… But if you’re still wearing yours, it must be worth it, right? Hope you get around to that baby wearing post soon! 😉

  • grammie2maddie
    October 29, 2014 at 4:04 pm

    You have a beautiful, kissable, nibbable baboo – I hope you don’t mind that he looks JUST like your hubby! Adorbs.com!

  • Callie
    November 21, 2014 at 8:26 pm

    Hi Jenna! My little boy us just 4 months today so it’s been great fun to follow along with Grayson as I can relate to so much!

    We’ve tried following MOC but it doesn’t always work out. My question is when did you start going the 4 hours between? We aren’t doing solids for awhile yet but it seems the 8-16 week schedule has us feeding too soon (he’s often not hungry at the feed time)

    I know every baby is different, I’m just curious!

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