Little farm in our backyard

Dane's garden. Built and planted all by he and the kids!

Yes, we even have chickens!! Dane's building a bigger coop as our 7 chickens have outgrown this one. Let's see if I can remember their names.. Steve, Bitey, Quickster, Maddie's little helper.. I guess that's all I can remember, all named by Maddy. I'm looking forward to fresh eggs!!

Maddy's bunny "Sweetie Pie"

Wenzel Children

Harkey Family

Pretty flower

 

Update on Emmalyn

    We got more information from a pediatric GI specialist at Dornbecher's Children's Hospital. The doctor confirmed that she has breast milk colitis and also diagnosed her with GERD (acid reflux). Despite weighing only 10 lbs 10oz, which puts her around the 3rd percentile, the doctor assured us that she would not be labeled FTT (failure to thrive). The doctor explained that her slow weight gain is acceptable because she is still healthy and proportionately small at 21.5 inches.
    The plan is to start her on Zantac and add Carafate to coat the lining of her esophagus and stomach. Hopefully, this will improve her feeding and make her more comfortable. Currently, we're lucky to get 2oz per feed. As for breastfeeding, I have to go on a strict no-dairy diet. This includes most breads, sauces, and most processed foods. I'm going to give this diet a try, but if it proves difficult or I don't see improvement in her symptoms within a month, I'll have to stop this endeavor of breastfeeding. It will be a very emotional time for me.

    Neocate is a completely hypoallergenic formula not made from cow's milk (most hypoallergenic formulas are still cow milk-based). This is an "elemental formula," meaning the proteins have been broken down into amino acids. We're fortunate our insurance covers this formula 100% as it is very expensive... $50 per can.
    Please keep us in your prayers! It's already hard enough to split my attention between 4 kiddos and my hubby. This added stress is pushing us to our breaking point. She cries every time I feed her and is up many times a night. Since adding formula to her diet, my milk supply has decreased considerably. For the past few days, I've had to breastfeed, then top her off with a bottle (because I didn't have enough milk to satisfy her). Once she's asleep, I pump (to increase my supply). All of that while trying to keep my other children from fighting. It's not exactly a peaceful atmosphere around here!
    I know it will improve with time, and there are many happy and loving moments...I only wish right now there were more of them!