Just when I think I have this parenting gig figured out, something new happens. Prior to Leah's arrival, I did some reading. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a planner, so is it any wonder that I wanted to know what to expect once she arrived? Friends recommended Babywise and The Baby Whisperer, so I dutifully read them and took notes. Well, I had decided I'd try to put Leah on a schedule, if only to maintain my sanity and to help me try to figure her out.
Ugh. That did not go too well. First, it entailed waking her up to eat at times since the books recommended feeding her every 2.5-3 hours. Second, I often had to wake her after she finished eating (she tends to fall asleep in the act), which in turn meant I had to find a way to help her back to sleep after her (forced) active time. Of course, neither of those seemed beneficial to her (and neither really helped me, either, since she wasn't happy).
So... after a long talk with Katie, I decided to try something totally different; I was going to "spoil" Leah (though Katie's words were, "You can't spoil a newborn, so give her what she wants."). Well, go figure that I decided to adopt that philosophy just as Leah experienced a growth spurt, which meant that she was attached to me literally ALL DAY LONG for a couple days this past week. Can I tell you that I was NOT happy about that? Just when she finished feeding, she'd want to eat again. I felt as if my body was no longer my own. To make matters more challenging, Scott worked until midnight Wednesday, so I really NEVER had a break. (SIDE NOTE: I have a new found respect for single moms. After all, at the end of the day, I have a husband who is able to help me out and give me a break. There's a definite end to being on my own; a single mom doesn't have that luxury.)
Thankfully... Friday finally arrived. Though the morning didn't start off as anticipated (Leah usually naps after a morning feeding, but Friday she decided to stay up), the day actually turned out quite well (translation: Leah slept long enough for me to take a nap, too). Plus, once Scott got home that afternoon, I was able to get a few things done around the house. (I know I'm supposed to take it easy, but in order to feel "normal", I had a few things that I wanted to take care of this week. Sitting in front of the TV day in and day out has simply gotten to me; I needed to be up and moving, taking care of items around the house.)
This weekend has been a refresher, too. Since giving in to Leah's "demands", she seems to be more content, which means I am, too. Plus, we had a chance to get outside to enjoy this beautiful weather. So... all in all... the more time we spend together, the more I learn about being a mom to beautiful Leah. We'll see what lesson this next week brings.
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4 comments:
Great! I'm glad you two are getting to know each other. Enjoy this beauutiful weather and family time. I totally get what you're saying about being a single mom. I feel for them. Just knowing you have someone else to support you and listen makes getting through the day easier. Yay for good husbands/dads!
I'm glad you and Leah have gotten into a groove that works for you two. That's what it's all about. I'm smiling that she's already taught you that once you get one stage figured out she changes the whole game. Haha! I know it's overwhelming right now but you're doing a great job. Now, more pictures please!!!
You know what they say...Life happens when you're making other plans. It's definitely hard for organized people to adjust to a life of chaos...just ask Julie & me...
Babies are notorious for changing things up! And BTW, they will usually go through a growth spurt at 3 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Not all of them, mind you, but many babies do. So beware! I can't wait to meet Miss Leah in August!
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