Thursday, March 06, 2008

One Week



Well, Luke has been home one week and we have managed to survive. It's amazing how quickly you adapt to waking up every 21/2 - 3 hours and a lack of sleep. He seems to be growing. He already looks different than the pictures we took at the hospital.

The baby blues hit pretty hard. I had a couple of major meltdowns, mostly due to exhaustion, I'm sure. Also, being trapped at the house and unable to drive still makes it worse. M has been a big help and has taken a lot of time off from work. We are still working on the baby's room so the house is a disaster. I know that has something to do with it, too. Progress is being made, though, and M is working really hard despite being tired, as well. I can drive after Monday, so that will help so much. We can go on walks and get into more of a normal routine. Since I was on bedrest for 3 weeks before he arrived, I think I've hit my limit. Friends have been by and I have gotten out a few times, but it's hard right now. I've lost about 20 pounds, though, so that's good!

Breastfeeding is going ok. Thank you so much for all of the encouragement and advice. I am still using the shield, but am trying to get Luke to latch on without it every time. I know it will get better, but it has been hard. I am going to have to start pumping in preparation for our road trip and going back to work, so who knows what will happen then. I won't give up, but I have decided to forgive myself if things don't go just the way I want them to. The important thing is that Luke is ok. We have our 2 week pediatrician appointment a week from today, so I guess we'll find out if he's gained enough weight and is getting enough to eat.

Overall, motherhood has been a whirl of really strong emotions, so far. I don't think anything could have prepared me for the feelings that wash over me on a daily basis. It terrifying and amazing.

Here is a picture of M with Luke. He grew a beard and wanted to re-create the Paul M.cCartney album cover at the top.

12 comments:

Delenn said...

I was totally unprepared for the "baby blues", in fact I think I had full blown postpartum depression. I also had been on bedrest (for about 2 1/2 weeks) and I think that adds a lot to it. Its hard when you have been waiting and then been restrained in your waiting and now he's here and its SO much all at once.

All I can say is that with everything with a child--its all in phases/stages. If you don't like the stage your on, it will change. And soon you will be able to get out of the house. Soon (sooner than you realize) Luke will start to get into some sort of sleep pattern that, while not enough sleep, more than you are getting now.

I just know that its been nine years since I was where you are, and even though I am TOTALLY looking forward to seeing our new little one---I am also a little nervous about those first few weeks...

Delenn said...

Oh, something that did help me--I started writing a journal about my daily routine with Michael. It seemed to help.

AwkwardMoments said...

what a great photo. I hope things get much better for you. Being cooped up is just dreadful. Glad Luke is perfect!

hopeful to hateful in 28 days said...

What handsome boys!!! Congrats Kate!! I am so happy that Luke has arrived. I am going through a lot of the same stuff- motherhood is joyful and overwhelming at the same time. You can talk to me anytime about what you're feeling.

Congrats again!!! And get some sleep!

Courtney said...

What a great picture! I'm so happy to hear that things are moving along well. It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job. :)

*I hope the breastfeeding gets easier with each feeding!

Cibele said...

what a great picture!

TeamWinks said...

I like your husband's picture pose better than Paul's. I still can't get over how cute Luke is! I mean normally the little ones just are that adorable. The ladies are going to love that little one. Let's just hope that a looooong ways away, right? :-)

LJ said...

I am a sucker for a McCartney reference. Adorable picture!

Somewhat Ordinary said...

That is an adorable picture! I hope that once you can get out of the house on your own things start to get better!

Dr. Grumbles said...

I hope your little bundle of joy doesn't bring on another break-up of the Beatles!

Just kidding - great pic! Great baby!

Tam said...

Just back from holiday and wanted to say well done sweetie. Little Luke is just tooo cute. Enjoy him

Lots of love and hugs xxx

Chris said...

Congrats on your baby boy! He's adorable.