Sleep

With Caroline as my primary concern, sleep is both my friend and my enemy. Prior to becoming a parent, I got a lot of it. Even when I was big and pregnant, discomfort never got in the way of my precious sleep. Or my husband's for that matter.

For the next 3 months, I won't be getting more than 3 consecutive hours of sleep at any point of time. And, to be honest, my body has totally adjusted. Yes, I need a nap here and there - and we may figure a way for Dan to take one of the early morning feedings when I go back to work in order to get a couple more hours. Either way - I will be fine.

That being said, because of Caroline's MCAD, I have a huge fear of oversleeping. I've learned that my "REM" cycle occurs during my first few hours of sleep. I've been setting 3 or 4 alarms just to make sure I wake up. So far, I have not exceeded the maximum amount of time she can go without eating, however the fear has me looking for better ways to wake up out of a very deep sleep. My latest thought is to buy one of those alarms that has a vibrating component that goes under my pillow. I've also considered recording myself saying, "Jessica -- wake up and feed your daughter!!" Other suggestions are welcome :)

I do have to say, that while other parents may have 7 week old babies that sleep through the night, I'm pretty impressed that my little girl can nurse, then go back to sleep successfully 3x a night :-) Go Caroline!

P.S. Just for fun, check out this video that I sent to Dan. The reason I love it so is because I think it gives an indication of her little personality - boy does she have one!

Control Freak!

To my detriment sometimes, I may be considered a little "Type A." Since we have learned about Caroline's condition, I've prayed every day for peace and to remember that God is in control of our future.

One of my biggest concerns after seeing the specialist was childcare. Long story short, we have worked diligently over the last few years to get our finances in order, so it's important that I return to work full time in the fall. This decision was not taken lightly and lots of alternatives have been considered. One thing that we did agree on, was that day care was probably not the best option for Caroline during the first year - as our number one goal is to eliminate as many colds, viruses and ear infections as we can over the next 11 months.

And, all I have to say is that prayer works! Ironically, both of our aunts are willing to watch our baby in the fall! What a blessing :)

My next task is to put together our protocol for if/when she runs a fever or will not eat. I still have a few unanswered questions on when you make the decision to jump in the car and head to the Children's hospital.

In the meantime, we're all loving watching her grow and change. She's almost 5 weeks old and approximately 11 pounds already! Guess those 1 hour feedings served their purpose after all!