I'm sure a lot of you have seen a lot of the I'm a Mormon videos on YouTube and mormon.org. I think what I like the most about the videos (and what is surely the purpose behind the campaign), is that they show that there is no one way to be a Mormon. Outside of basic doctrines, Mormons are about as different from one another as can be, and that's okay. Or at least it should be.
It's no secret that I've built my Mom-denity around the philosophies of attachment parenting. For the most part, I've gladly embraced the label. But sometimes I find myself feeling a little anxious. "Am I holding my baby enough?", "Is our breastfeeding relationship successful enough?", "Should I really enjoy night feedings more than a good night's sleep?", and other questions.
As I've been thinking more and more about my challenge to "take the easy way out," I realize that I've lost track of what my parenting philosophies really are. I would say that I definitely still fit the bill of the "attachment parenting mama" but from time to time I seem to lose focus as to what attachment parenting is really all about--making choices that bring you closer to your children so you will know how to be the best parent possible for your individual child(ren).
I love babywearing and bedsharing, breastfeeding and bonding. But maybe it's okay for me to say, "okay, bedsharing was great! Now it's not working for us any more." Or, "babywearing is fantastic but right now, I'd prefer we go for a walk with the stroller rather than the carrier," or whatnot.
Whether you're an AP mama or whatever, it's good to remember that we can be who we are, strive to become better and better, and don't have to fit some pre-defined label as to what that should be. Maybe that's just "taking the easy way out," but I'm okay with that.
I think you're totally doing the right thing, Amy. I know I suggested you could do some controlled CIO, but really, all these things are probably helping. Either way you go, you're a wonderful mom. :) I'm glad things have calmed down, I've been thinking about you a lot! Also, I also think you should definitely get your thyroid tested... actually, I think all women should get it tested at some point in the year after they have a baby, it's a pretty common problem.
ReplyDeleteYou might also try some melatonin (a supplement you can pick up jsut about anywhere). When I'm having nights where I'm really struggling to go to sleep, I take 2mg (usually two pills, but read the box) and it helps me feel less anxious and drowsier. It's really mild, but for me it's perfect when I need it (which, thankfully, is not very often).
I totally identify with the extra cuddles thing. Clara's been waking up again in the early morning, and I find just going into her room, putting her binky back in, and holding her for a few quiet minutes really helps her calm down and go back to sleep for another hour or so. Amy, you're doing great, and Hyrum's a very happy boy, so be proud!