I have to share - I'm so proud!
For the past couple of weeks, I haven't been able to nurse John to sleep. He'll nurse to groggy, then lie awake, usually quietly singing or babbling in my arms. No amount of rocking or shushing has been able to lull him to sleep. So I started just putting him in his crib and leaving - there was nothing else I could do. Of course, he would wail piteously. We'd wind up each night with him standing in his crib, clutching me, while I tried to calm him down. But eventually, I'd say good-night, give him a kiss and go to sit on the steps to listen to him cry himself to sleep.
It took about 10 minutes the first night. But every night, there's been less and less fuss. A few nights ago, it became aparant the wails were just for show - he fell silent the second the door closed behind me.
Well, last night, he made a breakthrough! I did the whole little ritual, just like normal. I sang him his favourite song while I nursed him. Then we cuddled for a few minutes. Then I put him in his crib. He clung to me, while I rubbed his back. Then, I bent down, kissed his check and said good-night. THEN, instead of crying and stomping, like he has been, he turned his head and kissed my hand - a first. Then, clutching his pink security blanket, he laid down in his crib and shut his eyes!!! I gave his head a stroke and left the room - not a peep! How amazing is that!?
I hope it's the beginnings of something!
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2 comments:
*big hug* There is no such thing as a little accomplishment when you’re trying to work with people. I often find myself wishing that if I’m ever a parent that the child will come with a little hand book that has “If I do “x” I mean _____. It sounds like you’re doing a wonderful job, so keep up the good work (even when it feels as though you aren’t).
You’ve been through a lot this year Megan, keep it up! You have such a wonderful way of looking at things, and it makes all the difference in the world. John is lucky to have you as his mother!
Don't worry, Vic. They change pretty slowly, day by day, so there's time to adapt. You can figure it all out as you go along - no manual needed. Though the challenges keep getting bigger. I remember my first revelation - babies cry for no other reason than they just like to be held. Who would have thought that? Shockingly, it took me a few weeks, and probably many force feedings, to piece that one together. So if I can raise a normal kid, so can you!
Megan
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