At 5 weeks I noticed some significant changes in baby Jake and life at home. The first 4 weeks of Jacob's life were the hardest on me and Chris as new parents. We were sleep deprived, exhausted, drained, and inexperienced. I had a couple of meltdowns and times when I felt that I would not make it til the next day. But in week 5, Jake napped a little bit more to give me a break during the day and I started to actually enjoy him. To be quite honest, I was not really enjoying motherhood at first because it was the most difficult and trying thing I had yet to endure in my life (I think any mother who tells you otherwise is either a) lying right through their teeth or b) having someone else breastfeed and tend to their newborn all day!) So week 5 was the turning point in my relationship with my newborn baby. Don't get me wrong, it is still difficult and we are continuously learning new things about our baby each day. But the light at the end of the tunnel is now visible, if not a few feet away.
Jake is now 6 weeks old. He is a good and happy baby, smiling and cooing when he is full and content. We have developed a specific routine/schedule that works quite well and has saved our sanity. Also, Jake has been bottle-free for 3 days as of today! If there is one thing I have learned, determination is key to successful breastfeeding. Never underestimate your power as a woman and mother! As weary as I was, I feel like I did everything in my power to try to provide the best nourishment for my baby. I breastfed and pumped often to establish my milk supply and I am currently taking fenugreek pills (another thing I learned? Breastfeeding is not as easy as putting your baby on your boob.) Now I actually enjoy breastfeeding. The best advice I received was that you ultimately have to do what is best for you and your baby...whatever keeps YOU and your baby happy. A stressful environment won't help the situation.
As for me postpartum, I am healing pretty well, though still sore at times. The doctor said it takes about 6 months to be 90%. Having a baby is extremely traumatic for a woman's body but the outcome is well worth it.
So the storm known as Jake has passed in the Harrison household. It is still raining and we're learning to enjoy it, if not stay dry from it.
Love, love, love your honesty! I am so glad that you're beginning to see the light...I remember with Ginger, wondering why everyone had deceived me so much in neglecting to tell me how challenging it would really be! With everything that you guys have been through, I am so proud of you for being bottle free!!! A lot (LOT) of women (maybe me?!?!) might have given in, your determination is amazing, sista. Love you and baby Jake! I promise it just gets better and better (well, until teething comes along, but I won't scare you with that right now :)
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