Earlier this week, I was having lunch with a couple of other new moms from our birthing class. We had a revelation, “everything that our babies do isn’t a problem to be solved.” So, back off.
Well meaning friends and family are quick to give a solution or advice. Here is the reality of it, babies are babies. I know my baby better than anyone, Page is a close second.
This is my parenting style:
I follow my baby’s lead because he is doing crazy amounts of growing, and he was just born four months ago. Who knows, I will probably be singing a different tune in a few months, or with baby #2. Here is our general schedule, all subject to change:
Wake up
Morning-Eat, Play, Nap
Afternoon-Eat, Play, Nap,
Evening-Eat, Play, Eat, walk, Nap, Eat, Bath
Night-Eat, sleep, eat, play, sleep, eat, sleep…
I do think it’s important to make sure he gets plenty of rest, so I watch for his sleepy cues throughout the day. The best part about not having our little guy on a rigid schedule is that he is a constant part of our life. This is why I had a kid, to hang out with him. I believe that when he is with us, he is learning. I want him to grow up to flexible, independent, loving, and secure. I want him to be able to converse with his peers, as well as adults, and eat the foods we eat. He isn’t talking or eating yet; we are just laying the ground work.
One of the first nights after he was born, I suddenly felt overwhelmed with the thought of Page and I both dying. I thought, “he will be alone.” Fear of death, has stolen much of my life. I want to teach our son that while we are here for him, there are many things out of our control, but he will always have God. Whatever the means.
“These things unseen won’t cripple me, I place my hope in you.”
I was a very anxious child; I still struggle with anxiety.I inherited my parents own fears and worries. I always felt loved, but I didn’t always feel secure.
G sleeps in our bed for the second half of the night. I know one day, he will move to his own room, or his own part of our Airstream. We will miss these difficult nights. Even though I’m tired, it’s sweet to soak in his sweet little monster face in the middle of the night.
I also know this type of parenting probably isn’t sustainable in many situations. I am thankful to be able to be a stay at home with the support of Page.
Things to think about: How much stuff do we need?
Things to read:Wonder weeks