Friday, April 16, 2010

6 week smiles!



Here we are at 6 weeks! Unbelievable!!

The 5th week was really hard. O had some gas issues and cried for a few days inconsolably. They seem to have passed (literally/figuratively ha ha)...or at least he has gotten better at managing them, by which I mean he still has the gas but now knows how to, er, get rid of it. Apparently around this age is when they learn that kind of thing, as in putting together the sensation with what to do with it. Yes, I'm breastfeeding so the question is what is making him gassy? Well it could be near anything. I have a very healthy diet but certainly there is dairy and wheat...all that. Can't imagine having to change everything right now. One thing I've already learned in this 6 weeks is to not jump to conclusions---kind of wait things out, since he is changing every single day and next week, or tomorrow, a problem might resolve itself or a new one might emerge. As I get to know his cries and his reactions it's easier to make the call (at first I wanted to call the pediatrician literally every day!). I'm getting more calm. Although I admit that those inconsolable days were very very hard. I need to have a mantra during those times to get me through. When we come out on the other end feeling happy and adorable (him, not me), it's all worth it and completely amazing. Sometimes I still can't believe I have a wonderful cuddly snuggly baby. I keep saying to people "isn't he the cutest?" which must be a little bit annoying. But I can't help it.

I'm trying to stay active and I'm proud to state the following milestones: breastfeeding in public (check), grocery shopping (check), attending a social event (check), keeping several appointments on time (check), finalizing the day care options (check-ish), beginning to look into babysitters (semi-check). I'm attending a new moms group (fun/helpful), and "mom and baby yoga" and taking an infant massage class (I think the massage has helped his gas). I am so glad to have almost 3 more months at home with this little guy. There is so much bonding yet to be done. Yay.

In mid-May I'm going to Chicago...yes, with the baby. I'm totally nervous about traveling (just think of all the STUFF), but my darling mother has offered to meet me there for child care (it's a work thing--the only obligation I have during my maternity leave). I'm so grateful to her. We'll see how it goes! Any tips for traveling with infants most welcome!

I'm so excited to be following everyone's stories when I can, but not the best commenter these days. xoxo

7 comments:

hopefulcc said...

O is adorable! He has such a sweet, sweet smile! You sound so happy, Jo --clearly enjoying everything motherhood brings. (even O's gas!) Congratulations!

Laraf123 said...

O is very sweet! My son was very unhappy with colic for several weeks so I know what you were going through. I'm impressed by your checklist--you have already accomplished so much. (I was much slower to do any of those things...) Enjoy every moment with your baby!

Anonymous said...

You're right, he is cute! So glad his 'gas issues' seem to be under control. My son is almost 2, and is now farting on command (his wayward uncle's command, NOT mine!). He even acknowledges that he stinks. Ugh. Fun times to look forward to, boys are strange little animals, lol.

Heather said...

Wow, O is absolutely adorable!! And I am completely jealous of you on two counts: a) that you have been able to capture his sweet smiles on camera! Still working on that one...K smiles frequently, but so far I haven't caught any photos of her smiling. and b) that you still have THREE months of maternity leave left!! I went back to work today, and it wasn't nearly as bad as I anticipated. I missed her like crazy, of course, but I wasn't weepy like I expected. :) Great job on your checklist!! (Have I mentioned how adorable O is?!)

Genkicat said...

What a gorgeous baby!

I'm sorry he is a bit collicky. When Rhian was like that I searched for answers (she was also only breastfed at the time). Someone suggested a chiropractor to me. I was apprehensive, but eventually emailed one who told me that there is a saying that chiropractor's kids don't get colic. Anyway, just a thought. I took Rhian and her gassy issues are pretty much gone. ONE treatment that involved opening a couple of digestive valves.

I did some research and there is lots on how a chiropractor can help.

Just a thought - good luck. And he is sooooo cute.

Meg said...

We're travling in May too so I'll be checking back to see if you get any good tips! Mostly I'm hearing that a baby carrier makes life easier and be sure to nurse on take off and landing.

O sure is a cutie pie! Aren't those smiles just the best thing ever!?!

DRMOMOFTWO said...

Awwww, look how cute he is! You must be enjoying every minute! Glad the gas is better!