Parenthood: Week One

I've been terrible about posting, but of course I'm sure anyone who's ever had a baby understands that the first week usually doesn't leave time for much. I really don't know how single moms, or moms with husbands who are out of town a lot or hands-off when it comes to childcare, do it. If you are one of those women, you have my undying respect.

It's been a long week, needless to say, but a wonderful one just the same. My husband was supposed to go out of town on business, but decided to stay home to take care of me and the baby. My mom was supposed to stay with us this week, but I insisted that she go back home with my dad last Sunday. Sure, we could have used the extra help, but honestly, it was better for us to learn things for ourselves and decide what works and what doesn't before anyone else tries to tell us otherwise.

We find that we can't stop staring at him and saying how cute, beautiful, adorable, precious, amazing, etc. he is. I always thought that people would find us annoying if they knew how often we tell each other, "I love you" but I think that this is probably even more out of control. He definitely has us wrapped around his tiny little fingers and toes.

On Breastfeeding: I was shocked to discover that I actually enjoy breastfeeding. Before I had him, I was secretly thinking of excuses for why I couldn't do it because I was a little freaked out at the thought of a little person (who is not my husband) sucking on my boob. The reality is that it's a beautiful bonding experience, and it doesn't hurt like I thought it would. My milk didn't come in for 5 days and we had to supplement with formula...it really is a lot easier to breastfeed.

On Diapers: When J. was on the formula/colostrum diet, he barely pooped at all. Now that he is full-on breastfeeding, it's absolutely out of control! The first time his explosive poo shot across the changing table, we were blown away. Who knew a baby could have that much bowel power?!? Now that we know what to expect, we open his diaper slowly and then put it back for a few minutes while he blows ass. The fact that it doesn't gross us out indicates that we must really love him...a lot!

On Sleeping: J. has his days and nights completely mixed up...he sleeps all day long, no matter what we do to try and keep him awake. Oh, he'll wake up to eat and to say hi every once in awhile, but for the most part, he is out cold all day. He comes to life at night, wanting to feed like a little machine and fuss when he's not being held. You would laugh if you saw some of the ways we've tried to get him to go to sleep...like putting him in his car seat, putting the car seat in the bassinet, and turning the bassinet on "vibrate" to make him think he was in a car. That one worked one night, but not the next. Amazingly, last night he slept for 4 hours straight, though I really don't expect that he will do it again tonight. All I have to say is, "Thank God for naps!"

On Daddyhood: My husband has been phenomenal...absolutely phenomenal. He changes diapers like a pro, doesn't mind the crying, wants to spend as much time with him as possible, and is just an all-round amazing dad. I had no doubt that he would be, but to see him in action makes me love him even more.

I promise I will try to be better this week about updating. Key word: try. In the meantime, I'll be busy changing diapers, feeding J., and experiencing pure bliss.