Happy Mother's Day

Do you feel tired? Over worked? Under appreciated? Alone? Don’t worry, your day is here – Mother’s day! It is one day a year to show your Mommy how much you appreciate them and everything they do. Usually its filed with flowers, cards, chocolates, a good breakfast and perhaps even sleeping in. If all of this or more sounds like the day you’ve had – consider yourself lucky!!

There are some unfortunate Mommies who aren’t as lucky as you and I. Nope. They have had a terrible day and even week leading up to this day. I swear….it’s true. Personally it makes me upset that not every Mommy feels special (even just for today). Could you imagine your significant other telling you that 

“You’re not MY mother, so why should I do something for you?” 

“I made plans with MY mother; you’ll have to figure out something else”

IMAGINE!! I would lose my freaking mind. Lose it.

For all those men out there that really do take the time to appreciate their child(ren)’s Mommy – Thank you. It is a day to show how much you appreciate her for all the things (big or little) she does for the family. For all the times the house “magically” was cleaned when you got home. Or the numerous amounts of times dinner was ready and hot at just the perfect time. How about all the times the child(ren) decided to draw up the walls in crayon while you napped? Yup. You’re welcome.

Mother’s day is for all the Daddies who may not have the time to stop and say thank you (of course they think it all the time!) or for those who do but want to do more for the Mother of their children. It’s hard work being a Mommy – the constant needing from a child with no breaks in sight until bed time. We like to be appreciated every day but today more than anything. Don’t forget to reach out to your wife and give her a hug and kiss. Tell her you love her. Say the actual words “Thank You” (it means so much to hear them!!) and then let her relax for the day.

(Late) Spring Cleaning Time

This year is off to a late start in regards to a lot of things. We were still getting snow in April for Christ sake! Regardless of how it happened - its now Spring Cleaning Month for my family. I have to start writing out my list instead of keeping it in my head all the time! The backyard is going to be the biggest project, I think. The amount of branches that have fallen from all the winter storms (thanks Mother Nature!) its absolutely disastrous back there. Throw in the size of it and we have our work cut out for us! Once the branches are gone then it will be easier - cut the grass, pick up the rest of the leaves, plant a garden, etc. Its still fairly cool outside which is better than doing all this work in the scorching heat!

I've been on the hunt for the perfect pool for Adriana. I'm still gun-ho on getting more than just a wading pool with 4inches of water but the boyfriend doesn't seen it as beneficial. Clearly we need to make more trips to Wal-Mart together! Adriana loves swimming and has a life jacket so if we did get a bigger one, she would get lots of use out of a bigger pool rather than a smaller one. Plus we could use it more too when its really hot out. A quick dip to cool us off. He fears the dog will put a hole in it.

   

Nothing crazy - this one is 12'x30" and has a cover you buy separately. This will help keep the leaves and sticks out when we're not using it. I think it will be worth every penny of the $170 price tag (plus cover). I have never had a pool (I've always lived near a public pool or had friends who had one) and I would like to keep encouraging Adriana to swim. She will start swimming lessons again in the Fall!

I cleaned out Adriana's room (2 garbage bags later) and now she has a decent size room again! Next tackle is her closet. I have to fish out what still fits her and what doesn't anymore so we can make room for some new stuff. She already has some shorts and t shirts to get her started. Thanks to her Gran she also has some sandals and water shoes too! Our storage was converted from a small third bedroom and I still don't have enough space to keep everything!! Time to make the trip to the Goodwill then or....hello friends?

I can't wait for the summer!! I have some sweet days planned for Adriana and I this year (and if Daddy can get the days off work too). As long as she has her naps - we're golden. I have a shopping trip planned, zoo trip, movie date, swimming and cottage trip so far. I enjoy traveling with her because shes a people watcher and enjoys being on the go. Typical toddler. I refuse to sit inside all summer, sometimes walking down to the park or feeding the ducks - those are good things for the Spring and Fall but not summer! I may even look into a camping trip....oh do I dare?

Adriana wants to learn how to fish but I'm not sure she has the patience to make it through a round of fishing! She would end up scaring all the fish away. The boyfriend wants to teach her and I say Good Luck to you sir! I love fishing, just never had much time to continue it when life happened. He can teach her while I do my own fishing. Pretty sure it was my dad who taught me how to fish - although I'm not very good at it lol

What plans do you have with your kids this summer?

Do you travel with them on road trips? To where?

Happy Easter

Adriana is quite possibly the luckiest little girl!! She was spoiled for Easter. She got some clothes, sandals, new coat and matching rubber boots from her Gran and Gradad. Then she got a Dora the Explorer life jacket, which is amazing!! Now we have to plan a few weekends to go up to the cottage with her. Adriana was lucky enough to get something not every kid gets. She had some birthday money left over and Easter money - with the help of Mommy and Daddy - she picked out her very first power wheel! A red Mini Cooper convertible...great taste ;)

 cruising down the street!

We celebrated with some family time and a wonderful dinner. Traditionally we would have "jigs dinner" but went completely different this year with a huge spiral ham, gourmet scalloped potatoes, asparagus,  grilled mushrooms and 2 salads. Everything was delicious!!

Easter for me growing up was about family time and of course chocolate. Adriana is entirely interested in chocolate (whos child is this?!...I love chocolate) but she did spend lots of time with family. She is the most happiest little girl when shes around those who love her - even when she hadnt had a nap all day!

This long weekend also marked the start of Operation Goodbye Suckie for us. So far its not too bad considering how attached she was. No tantrums...although its not entirely gone. We snipped the tip so she (hopefully) wont have the desire for it anymore. She is at the "I want to just hold it" stage. I constantly check on her; suckie is in her hand or beside her. Far from her mouth. Success? I think we still need some time but its working so far!

Next up....potty training!!

What activities did you plan for your little ones?

Do you give gifts or just chocolate?

What great gift did the Easter Bunny bring your children?

Spring is in The Air

I really hope its here to stay - Spring like weather has sprung among us!! Time for walks, trips to the park, riding bike, feeding ducks, rubber boots and umbrellas.  I've already started some of those things in hopes the good weather will join me. Better late than never!

We have pulled out Adriana's bike (she got it for her birthday) and let her ride it around the house for a bit. She needs to work on her leg muscles now to get it moving. She understands how but its not easy. I'm sure by the end of the summer she'll be flying down the street in her 3-wheeled pink tricycle. Watch out!

She has already asked for her wagon. We need to clean it off first and then definitely go on some trips to town, the park, the ducks, etc. with her. She loves going for rides in it - she doesn't have to pull the thing! It will be great too for her friend to come along too. I hope he doesn't mind riding in a pink wagon! I can't wait to get her outside every weekend to the river for a picnic or just up to town for a snack.

We spend enough time inside during the winter, so when the weather is nice, I love getting outside doing things! First on the list....we need to clean up the backyard from the wick storms we had in December. I want to get her a small pool for those hot days - which reminds me....she needs a new bathing suit this year! I`d like to get a lounge chair to cuddle up for a nap or read a good book. Time to utilize the backyard more this year than the last. Cheers to more BBQs, patio lunches and fires :)

I have already started planning some fun activities for Adriana. We plan to take her to the zoo, waterpark, Bread & Honey, Waterfront, etc. Shes going to have so much fun! Now that shes older and able to walk more - we can do more things with her. She also hasn`t been in her stroller in a long long time. She really enjoys being independent - which includes walking by herself (only holding hands when we cross the road) or carrying her own bag. I don`t have to ask her most of the time.


What activities do you have planned for you little ones?

The Reality of Parenting

Lately, I have been reading some really interesting post about view from different sides of Motherhood. To be honesty, its completely entertaining to me! These posts are women, Mommies, justifying their life choices to the "other side" of parenthood. I saw one from the Stay at Home Mom to the Working Mom (and vice versa) but my favourite is one from a working mom to Gwenyth Paltrow....

You have to read this fellow Mommies (and even Daddies!)I'm not here to bash Gwen (although i'm offended by her comments) I just feel that her reference should have been more comparable. I completely appluad MacKenzie for her sarcasm, her narsicistic comments about what being a Mommy is really about when you have an office job, not a movie star. I love her over the top references to mother groups, of drinking bellinis, babysitters, and leisurely lifestyle - i LOLed.

I dont think I have ever laughed so hard when reading Scary Mommy's post of her shot of reality in Motherhood. She blantly tells you about her breaking point as a mother. We all have them....yes more than one and for several years! I can relate to some degree. I dont have nearly as many children as she does!! However I do let things bottle up and the smallest thing will set me off. I understand that becoming a parent means you signed up for the unknown things too, not just the good stuff. Yes there are times when I feel less appreciated, less special, less loved. Those are the days I simply tell myself - We will try again tomorrow.

It's not always rainbows and butterflies - although Adriana really a good kid...sometimes she lets her toddler show. You know the times they refuse to let anything go right - at all. Mornings for us consist of the same thing Monday thru Friday. Same time, same tv shows, same routine - yet every so often, Adriana decides to switch it up and fall out of routine. Its frustrating to keep her focused on getting ready (no you may not bring the BIGGEST toy to daycare...*insert tantrum here*) Shes usually really good but those days that dont work out just make my day worst from the get go. Imagine if I had 3 kids?? ....sorry Mom lol

I mention it time and time again...your kids pick up on your feelings. Keep them in check, stay calm, and keep over reactions at bay - save them for closed doors. I'm not saying dont show emotion around your kids - just choose wisely. After dinner tonight, my head was pounding.I simply held my forehead in my hand while Adriana finished her crackers. She asked if I was okay and I told her yeah my head just hurts. All she said was "I kiss it better Mommy?" melted my heart.....she believes a kiss makes everything better and shes partially right. Later she did kiss my head and tellme all better. Headache gone.

Our children are more observant than we realize sometimes. Pay more attention to why they do certain things and be aware of your own actions at the same time. You will see what I'm talking about. You will start to see the change in behaviours on both side. Maybe you will be able to create some more patience too!


What things do you do as a parent to help an emotional toddler

Spring is Just Around the Corner

There comes a time when we all must give up our toys. I shamefully admit I have kept pretty much ever toy Adriana has ever had - up until now. In my defence she never really played with many until after 6mths and even then time was spent outside instead. She will definitely hold on to her books...we are creating a collection for her. Some of her toys we will keep for the next baby - common first toys anyways.

A few things she doesn't really play with anymore - MegaBlocks(or legos), Some dolls, rattles, play yard mats, etc. She has them all in bins but never pulls them out! So its time to get rid of them and by that I mean give to my Mommy friends! I would hate to throw them out and they're still in really good condition.

With Spring (hopefully) around the corner, we can pull out some of her other toys - new bike and her wagon! I am really thinking about setting up a swing set out back. I know we have a park down the street but it would be even easier if there was one in our backyard. Wal-Mart has them on sale but would require some clean up of the backyard first and full essembly. I think we should do it!!

This year we are going to fully utilize our backyard. Adriana is getting a pool for here and her own chair to lounge in the sun. With me working closer to home, it would be nice to be able to do more here instead of running around everywhere. We have he BBQ and patio sets - just need a clean up and we have a fire pit too!

Its nice to live close to things if we need them but to be honest i'd rather stay home and have fun with the boyfriend and Adriana. It will be easier for us too since potty training time is coming again. Last bottle has been dropped from the routine....so far 1 night and shes done well. I really can't wait! She has started to show interest again but  of course we don't want to push it. She really has a good sense of when she has to go pee and LOVES "big girl" underwear. Time will tell ;)

Mommy Fear, You are Not Alone

I am reminded this week of my early days (weeks and even months) as a new parent. The amount of questions going through my head would leave me with headaches at times, but I've made it this far! I can't say my headaches have gone away, but the amount of questions have become less frequent. 

What changed?

I started to believe more in myself, more in my ability to be the best darn mom I could be for Adriana. I realized that I needed to trust my intuition more often and curb my anxiety. I told myself " I got this!" several times and I believed it most of the time.

Of course there were tears along the way, they made me stronger. There were moments of anger, that made me strong too. Its all part of the process of learning to be a mom or dad for the first time. 

I had a few friends that were already Mommies (or Daddies) who I would reach out to for confirmation that I was doing it "right" <--the quotes are because there isn't really a right or a wrong way...everyone has their suggestions for raising kids. Everything from how to feed them to how to dress them. Hold your ground.

I am not like most Mommies - I am not one who constantly runs after her child like a maniac or yells.Yes you read that right - I don't yell. Whats the point? I am saving my breath for when she's older! Your child isn't the best listener to WHAT you say but rather HOW you say things. Adriana is a soft spoken child for the most part - we dont raise our voices to communicate. Even before she turned 2yrs old she knew what an inside voice was. Thats more than most adults!

I may take a more relaxed approached to parenting but Adriana is really good kid. Not that she doesn't have rules - she has plenty and she follows them. I step in when she doesnt but its nice when everyone around her is on the same page too. If she acts out and we're not around, we expect the adult to say something to her! There have been times she's acted out and someone else had to remind her about her behaviour. We don't play the game that if Mommy or Daddy isnt around she can do whatever she wants.

I have faith in Adriana's ability. I truly believe when she wants to something let her try first. If she can't then show her how andlet her practice. I think its important to be independent and most parents would think I'm crazy. I want her to learn....isn't that part of being a parent? Teaching her things when she wants to instead of forcing it later. Its really paying off considering she knows how to dress herself (although pulling the shirt over her head is a bit difficult still).

This post wasn't meant to suggest how toparent but rather teach you that everyone does it differently. Not everything has to be by the book. Do it your way -- you know your child best! You have to trust yourself and know that you're not alone. That second guessing will go away as time goes on. Trust yourself, you know how to care for someone because you took care of yourself for years.

When you're really stuck, don't be afraid to talkto someone. Try not to hold it all in because guaranteed someone else has been there already. 

Top 10: Comments or Questions You Get When You're Pregnant

I was reminiscing about when I was pregnant and how wonderful it was....when I didn't have someone making absurd comments or inappropriate questions. If you've been pregnant (or currently) you know what I'm talking about. Perhaps, at times, those individuals didn't realize WHAT they were saying or asking. Maybe it was the WAY they said it? Regardless, we have all been there. I have compiled a list of my favourite ones. Some you may be able to relate to and others may be a one off.

1. "You look like you're ready to POP!".....when you're only just starting your third trimester. These people really do mean well, although they don't show it by this comment. Its basically on the list of Tradition Things to Say to a Pregnant Woman.

2. "You and your husband must be so excited" Umm....don't jump to conclusions people - 2014 and not everyone gets married before having kids. I can't tell you how many times people would be surprised when I said boyfriend. Which usually lead to "Is he the father?" People kill me.

3. "Was it planned or an....err...oops?" This question really makes me laugh. I mean it happens to some people but most people do plan for these things. I can predict when this one is coming too.....its usually after they say #2.

4. "What about your dog?" People, just because there's a baby coming home doesn't mean we have to get rid of our pets. We got this question A LOT because of Tyson - people just couldn't understand how a 7yr old Rottweiler could ever learn to be around a baby. We spent a lot of time getting him used to the baby things and smell. We never every pushed him away! Basically his routine didn't change with us - that's how we did it. Read more about How to Introduce Your Dog to the Baby

5. "You are eating for two now" this is just a ridiculous one that we ALL hear! Its usually from Captain Obvious who also points out that you're belly is getting bigger. Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you can't stuff your face with a giant greasy cheese burger. I did it several times! Of course its important to take your vitamins and eat your fruits and veggies - but if you want a cheeseburger...then eat a cheeseburger. Not because you're pregnant but because you WANT TO.

6. ANY comment about breastfeeding. Most people look at this as a "normal" thing to bring up - negative. This is no one's concern but the Mommy and Daddy. I had it asked a lot, of course I wanted to try to breastfeed Adriana but it doesn't always work out. No biggie. Apparently my relax attitude boggled people.

7. "How much weight have you gained?" This is simple no ones business but the Mommy and the Doctor. If she wishes to share then fine but never ever ever ask a pregnant woman how much weight she's gained. Try rephrasing the question "Is your baby growing?" or something along those lines.

8. "Pregnant Crazy" ok so this might actually be a real thing but you don't comment on it  unless your are able to back it up with very detailed facts....or you're my sister (thanks Kim!). Otherwise, shut it. We already know we're a little (lol) nuts but we don't need anyone to point it out anymore than we know. It happens to the best of us - some longer than others.

9. "Do you want a boy or a girl?" Seriously people, all a Mommy wants is a healthy baby and depending on how far along she is...she wants that healthy baby OUT! Otherwise there's not really a preference on whether it s a boy or girl.

10. "You must be having Twins....Triples....etc" How could you possibly know that unless you're my doctor. Since you're not.....shut it. I was told a hundred times that I was going to have twins because I am a twin (that is possible! but no) Given these comments were made in humour and at the very beginning of my pregnancy so it wasn't as bad. I found it very funny actually since I specifically as the ultrasound technician to check all the way over to my side and my doctor to feel for one sac. No twins. I win.



Share your crazy questions and comments below
How did you react?
Were they family, friend, coworker or stranger?

Kids in the Kitchen - 10 recipe ideas

Adriana has always had interest in the kitchen. When she was younger, I would slide her highchair into the kitchen with me while I made lunch and dinner every day. I would hand her a wooden spoon to keep her occupied while I cooked away. She loved it! I'm sure how much she actually paid attention to what I was doing but who cares - she spent time in the kitchen.

Now that shes older her interest to be in the kitchen with us is even more than before. Of course within reason, but we do let her help. Shes great at stirring the pasta and sauce, she even scopes the butter for the Macaroni and Cheese! We also enjoy making pudding and cookies. The best part - Adriana is only 2 years old.

Most parents shoo their kids away from the kitchen because of the hot stove, the oven, sharp tools, etc. Instead, why not try to teach them HOW to be in the kitchen. From the get go we explained the oven is hot; don't touch. Several times, we pick her up to see whats going on top of the stove. Shes curious because we never hid her from seeing us in the kitchen. She was always welcome to stick around and help but with caution. She knows what she can and cant do while there and her help is encouraging. Eventually when shes a little old - she will be making lunch or grabbing her own snacks. Can't wait!

Adriana has her own play kitchen in her room too. It has all the same things as Mommy's and Daddy's kitchen, including metal pots and pans. She loves making "breakfast" or "dinner" for us and we love pretending to eat it with her! She is even smart enough to serve it on a plate - always - and with a cup of tea! The pretend play is great for her to learn how things work. Must cook things on the stove and warm up things in the microwave. She even sets up the table with cutlery! Bless her heart

Adriana has peaked my interest to get her in the real kitchen more. So I did some research and found some great recipes that your little ones can get involved in the kitchen more often with

1. Homemade Pizza - Use Greek pita bread, pizza sauce and toppings. Each child can make their own pizza however they want!

2. Hot dog roll ups - use Crescent rolls, cheese and hot dog halves.

3. Smoothies - add all kinds of their favourite fruits, 1 cup of ice and blend. You may choose to use yogurt or fruit juice as well. Caution: blender may be a bit loud so try to  do it slowly so they don't get scared!

4. Meatballs - kids love getting their hands "dirty" and these are a great way to get them involved!

5. Rice Crispie Squares - what kid doesn't love this delicious treat?

6. Nachos - cook up some ground beef, add cheese, peppers, and serve with salsa.

7. Sliced Chicken Penne - slice up boneless/skinless chicken and fry, add cooked pasta and sauce.

8. Banana rolls - roll up a banana in a peanut butter covered wrap and slice.

9. Deviled Eggs - seems simple enough!

10. Cookies - the good ol' classic ones!


Don't shy your kid away from being in the kitchen. Instead teach them how to work in that area. When they're a little older - you'll be thankful for showing them their way around. It teaches them to be independent for themselves and thoughtful towards others. The more you hold back the less likely they will do things for themselves when the time comes. Teach them young and within reason. I don't expect Adriana to cook up a pot roast or anything but she can help with the more simple meals. She has an interest in the kitchen - we just add fuel to that and teach her how to be safe in the kitchen. Little by little she learns how to work the necessary things.

We are lucky to have an independent little girl. Don't hold them back from learning, even if society says they're too young. Eventually they will have to learn about it so teach them when there's interest and you won't have to force it when they're "old enough". Stop holding them back - stop letting them think they "can't" and start showing them HOW. That's what parenting is about - not making it harder on yourself by trying to control every little movement they do. Teach them to be the people you want by leading by example. I continue to talk about Monkey-see, Monkey-do....do as I say not as I do - how it really works on a child.

Milestones for your Child

Have you ever wondered how your child is developing? After 18mths those doctor visits are spread out even more. Where do you turn to know your child is on the right track? This is where parents start to compare their child to their friend's little one or kids at daycare or even strangers! It can get really ugly after awhile. So tame that inner urge to compare and just do some research. Here are some guidelines I've found that may help you set your mind at ease.

If you truly have concerns about your little ones development, ask you doctor. You should know that although some child excel in development - others take their time. That doesn't mean there's something wrong with your child; it just means they're growing at their own pace. By the time they're in kindergarten, they all learn at the same pace anyways.

To be honest, focus on enjoying your child instead of worrying about where they stand with other children. Your little one will develop just fine - if later down the road you're still concerned then talk to the doctor about having your child tested. I read a great article about certain things a mother wants to teach her daughter (i'm on a hunt for a son list). The writer makes a personal list of things that she plans on teaching her daughter and checks them off as their done. Its in no particular order but made me laugh out loud!

Cloudy, with a Chance of Wine is a hilarious mother writing about her life as a stay at home mom.

How to Introduce your Dog to a Baby

This is strictly my personal experience. I read many articles online, many books, and offered advice from friends/ family.

If you don't know yet - My boyfriend and I have had a Rottweiler named Tyson. He was 7yrs old by the time our daughter, Adriana was born and had never been around other babies. Ever. So we knew we had to work on this as soon as possible. After we found out I was pregnant, I started researching "How to introduce a dog to a newborn" and anything else that was similar to that. Call me crazy but I actually sat my dog down and gave him the "talk" about a new baby on his/her way. I actually talk to my dog a lot - he's a very loving animal, despite his intimidating breed - he was my baby boy.

I never ever pushed my dog away. In fact, I would encourage him to come lay his head on my belly in hopes the baby would kick him. She never did. I would lay with him for hours in the bed or on the couch, watching TV or reading a book. Every time I bought something for the baby, I would let him sniff it out and explain that it was for the baby. He was able to sniff out almost anything that was going to be hers. Blankets, clothes, diapers, teddy bears...whatever! This allowed Tyson to get used to the smell of the baby without the baby actually being there. We even set up the crib while he watched from the doorway. He sniffed that out too.

I always find this part of the story amazing....On my due date, my waters actually broke and I remember the night before very clearly. Tyson usually sleeps at the foot of the bed on the floor or in the living room. The night before he slept right beside me, on the floor. I actually stepped on him when I went to get up in the morning! He was so close that his head was under my nightstand and some of his back was under the frame of the bed. I thought it was weird because he doesn't usually lay there, but it wasn't until later when we went to the hospital that it all started to make sense. He knew.

When I got out of bed the first time and made my way to the bathroom, he was right outside the door waiting for me. Then I sat in the glider to relieve some back pain. He sat so close he was literally on my foot. I went back to the bathroom to run a shower and he sat on the floor until I was done. Then I went to lay back in bed and he returned to his spot right beside me on the floor. To this day, I am convinced he knew what was happening. He knew the baby was on her way and was trying to comfort me by being by my side the whole time I was at home. If that isn't dog love....then I don't know what is!

After the baby was born, my boyfriend took her original receiving blanket from the hospital and brought it home. He showed it to the dog and laid it on the table for him to sniff it out. Apparently, he did for a few minutes and then went to lay down. This was a good sign that he was used to the smell at least. My boyfriend went back late that night to keep Tyson company - we wanted to make sure he was calm when we brought the baby home. The next day, late morning, we walked through the door with our baby girl in her car seat. Inevitably, Tyson was excited to see me and very curious about this little tiny person wrapped in blankets. My boyfriend held Adriana, who was still strapped in her car seat, while I said hello to my baby boy. Once he had a few minutes of my time, he went straight over to the car seat. Sniffing like crazy, while she slept away. Then he slowly stuck out his tongue and gave her a soft lick on the face. No word of a lie - I had tears in my eyes. I think we were both relieved by his reaction towards her. Not a growl, not a huff, or anything...he loves her.

For the next few days, we were very careful with them together still. I mean, she was a newborn and he's a hundred pound dog! A few times while I held her wrapped in her blankets, Tyson was allowed on the bed while my boyfriend watched him. He was always very curious about her; wanted to be near her with everyone else. At night when she made a noise, he would be right by her crib whimpering because he couldn't see inside, couldn't see her. Very cute. He would give her soft licks on her face or her feet. He was gentle with her. Very different than what everyone thought would happen.

My parents have a long haired chihuahua, named Miko. Like Tyson, he is my mom's baby boy. He was NOT ready for the baby and even to this day has a hard time with her around. He literally runs and hides, especially since she started to crawl around. We try to hold him near her and let her pat him softly but it doesn't work. Miko literally shakes and claws to be away from her. Small dog syndrome?
My sister has a black lab puppy named Tango. She's a hyper dog but does well with Adriana considering she's still learning. Only one problem: Tango likes to lick - a lot. That's all fine and dandy except she does it in her ears. Could potentially be a problem if Adriana gets ear infections. Still, I give her credit for the fact she mostly ignores the baby - too busy running around with her toys, bone, or to get my sister's attention.

Best advice I can give is make sure you allow your pup as much time as possible to warm up to someone new being around. Make sure they can be gentle, have their tail tugged at, ears pulled, and paws touched. These are good starter points. Don't forget to introduce the smell of a baby, use the word "baby" a lot to associate her things.

"That's the Baby's crib"
"The baby is on the way"

Give your pooch some time. Be confident in them. and never, EVER, push them away when they try to get close to the baby. Include them in that time, a little bit at first and more as they deserve. Dogs just want attention and love from the same people as before the little bundle of joy came along. It's different for them - one day its just him and two people and then there's a baby. I was always confident in Tyson. I knew how loving he really is and how he would love her just the same. He very gentle with Adriana and she with him. It's crazy to see them play together - while sitting in her highchair, she'll stick her little hand out with some food on it and Tyson will lick it off. She even goes one step further and tries to play with his tongue! He is not bothered by it at all, he thinks its a game while he tries to lick her fingers. Not once getting frustrated. I love our rottweiler. He will be 8 years old in a few months and although he doesn't have much time left...I hope she really gets to play with him like we really want her to.