I've Been a Mommy for only 5 weeks...

...and yet I can't imagine what it was like before Benji came.

Benji is a great kid. He really is a very content baby. He fusses when he's hungry, and occasionally just because he's a baby and that's what they do. But he rarely has long periods where he is just crying or irritable. Most of the time he's eating, sleeping, or just happily taking in
That's not to say he's not a lot of work. I'm no stranger to babies and kids, but I was not prepared for how all consuming being the mother of a newborn would be! Uncle Evan visited when Benji was about 3 weeks old and asked, "but what does he do?" Well, right now he pretty much eats. And eats some more. Occasionally he'll grow tired of the gluttony and snooze. Uncle Evan might be happy to know, however, that Benji is starting to smile at us (real smiles, not the gassy smiles) and is finding his sweet little voice.

Right now are days follow a fairly predictable routine. We usually wake up for Benji to eat around 5 am. Afterward, I take him out for a nice long walk. This gives him a chance to get some fresh air and take in the sights and sounds of the outdoors (assuming he stays awake) before it gets too hot. It also gives me a chance to get out of the house and get some exercise. After we get back and he's nursed again, he typically has a period where he's very alert and happy. He and I will talk to each other, with his end of the conversation usually consisting of "ooh," "ahh," "gah," and "eee!" We'll also sing some songs, and he'll watch me as I move around trying to straighten up or get myself together for the day. He has these very alert periods about 2-3 times a day. Otherwise, he's usually eating or snoozing.

He enjoys his baths in the evenings, and he also likes to cuddle with his Daddy and I. Tummy time is something he's learning to like. Right now he's okay with it for about 2-3 minutes and then he starts to complain and wants to be flipped back over. Keeping that head up is hard work!

His Daddy and I are starting to feel like we have things somewhat under control at this point. I have to admit, though, that I tend to still have bouts of anxiety about whether or not I'm doing this whole mommy business right. I realize that this may just be what defines parenthood! Whenever I have my doubts, though, my own mommy is quick to reassure me and give me any advice that I may need.

We're still going strong with the cloth diapering. That's a whole separate post (I'll have to try to write and adventures in cloth post soon), but so far it's working out pretty well. There's been some trial and error, and there may be some things I'd do differently if there is a next time, but it's been great overall. Ed/Alex is even a fan now, and he wasn't completely convinced when I told him I wanted to give it a try. Now he's telling folks how much he likes it!

Benji is still breastfeeding. It's amazing how bad babies are at the whole nursing thing...I'd have thought it was something that instinct would pretty much take care of! Many mommy-baby couples have difficulty for one reason or another, and not all women are able to start or continue breastfeeding (through no fault of their own). We've been lucky in that he's only had some minor latch issues which have been more of a discomfort issue for me than an issue for Benji. He's growing like a weed, so I know he's getting plenty of milk! I have to admit, though, that it's not always rainbows and sunshine. It's a lot of work, it's not always very comfortable, and it does make me feel like I'm constantly nursing at times. I'm very glad, however, that it has worked out for us and that he can continue to receive breastmilk. I was starting to become somewhat discouraged but then I read an article that actually acknowledged the challenges of breastfeeding (rather than making it sound like each session is supposed to be marked by angels singing and a halo of light around the little one). Realizing that I wasn't abnormal for feeling frustrated with the process at times made it much easier for me to start enjoying and appreciating the opportunity!

So, we're doing well over all, and trying to take the challenges in stride. Those big eyes, that beautiful smile, and those cuddles makes it all worth it!