Turning Point

I think that there was a turning point in my motherhood journey this week.

It could have been the extra sleep that Will is finally allowing me, or it could have been the way that the stars and moons aligned. But something changed.

I still had my moments, but instead of feeling overwhelmed by them, I actually felt that I rose to the occasions. I did a lot more laughing than crying. I felt more in tune with his needs, more able to meet them before he even knew he had them. As a result, Will did a lot more smiling than crying this week, too.

I believe that the true turning point came on Tuesday, when I went to the grocery store. Usually, I race through the aisles, trying to "Beat the Clock," or basically, get my shopping done and get out of there before Will wakes up and starts wailing - which he invariably starts doing in the check out line. For some reason, I put him the Baby B.jorn instead of leaving him in the car seat as usual, and he loved it! We walked around the grocery store for almost an hour. I had no less than ten people comment on how happy and relaxed my baby was. And he was! He just looked around the whole time, smiling and cooing and charming the heck out of people - including me! It was magical.

Having the "B.jorn Backup" made me feel more comfortable and confident in taking him out. We went to Cost.co the next day! That time, he stayed in his car seat, but just knowing that I could make him happy with the carrier boosted my confidence. I got out more this week than I have in previous weeks and it felt good to join the human race a bit again.

I also started allowing myself to take naps with him. It is the most incredibly bonding and calming thing to nap with my son. I feel our breath and heartbeats synchronizing and I feel at peace in the world. I do find that I sleep lightly, but heck, at least I am sleeping! Before, I had been so caught up in getting him to nap on his own. But after reading more into sleep habits and training, I have come to the conclusion that it really doesn't seem to hurt them at this early age and so I have decided to enjoy it while it lasts. Someday, he won't think it's so cool to nap with Mom.

Here are some of my favorite moments from Will's eighth week!

The smiles are getting bigger and better. . .

Such a popular boy - He already has a ton of friends. . .

Another Halloween outfit. . .

Last but not least, this is how M found us when he came home tonight . . .