A Deep-Down Good Feeling

There are, of course, many hard moments with Micah. Take, for example, that Terry came home yesterday and asked why Micah's plastic Bumbo seat was in the hallway. I pretended not to hear since the real answer was that I'd gotten over-whelmed with Micah's crying and had picked it up and thrown it. Yep. I'll admit it. It's the God's-honest truth that sometimes exhaustion and constant care-taking on top of regular stresses get the best of you. (Come on, stay at home moms, you know it's the truth! Any mom who says she never loses it, is in complete denial or destined for a break-down!) From what I've heard, all new moms handle this stress differently. Normally I'll call Terry for some sympathy and support. But, yesterday I didn't get that far! Oops! Luckily, the exasperation passes quickly and there are many wonderful moments that are 1000 x better than any low moment.

Every night Terry and I discuss our low and high-point of the day. My high is often putting Micah to bed. We've settled in to a routine that is fun and rewarding for Micah and for us! Around 8:45 or 9 one of us gives Micah a bath. Then we turn the lights low, brush his little gums and his hair, and apply his lavender-scented nighttime lotion all over while we sing soft songs to help him begin to calm down. Then we move to his nursery and read a book or two with only a soft lamp on. Then we'll pray for Micah, his well-being, and his future before we rock him to sleep.

It's a great way to end the night with Micah and settle into a relaxing night ourselves. I look forward to it every time it's my turn. I'm happy to know we're establishing a routine that we can hopefully keep well into Micah's childhood. It gives you a deep-down good feeling in the very core of your soul! Nothing beats it!

Last night Micah's acid reflux flared up and he was crying through a feeding. I kept burping him and giving him breaks, and I guess eventually, the pain passed and he was feeling better, because he calmed down and got down to business. After a few minutes, he suddenly pulled away and looked right up into my face and said, clear as anything, "Thank you!" then he burst into mad giggles! Terry and I died laughing at his quick mood change and his seemingly miraculous early grasp at language! It's forever ingrained in my brain as a great Micah moment.

It was one of those moments when I think I'm ready for baby #2. But, when baby #2 is this age, Micah will be old enough to know how absurd it is when his mommy goes around throwing things and grunting! And that ain't cool! So, #2 will have to wait until I've had some more time to pray for patience and composure!