I've read lots of books and I completely agree with all of the tips and philosophies they cover. There's just one little thing. . .they didn't know my baby when they wrote that book. Hope is actually a pretty easy baby. She doesn't cry much unless there is a clear reason. But she has her quirks. She's a little random still when it comes to eating times and despite my best effort to guide her to an eat/wake/sleep schedule, she usually chooses eat/sleep or eat/wake. I suppose she's an extremist!
This morning as I was fighting back tears and bouts of frustration, I decided it was like if everyone in the world had a different cell phone (which we do) but we all received the same manual. It goes over things like how the phone should basically work - hold it to your ear to listen and talk, press the number buttons to dial, etc - but it doesn't really take into account the uniqueness of your phone. Special features and quirks, things like that. How would we function?
And then I decided that it was time to read the Word. I realize that this God-inspired book of life does not include a baby manual, (I'm in the process of asking the Lord why He didn't think to throw that in there) but it did remind me today that I have every bit of wisdom and guidance I need because I have direct access to Him, my all-knowing God. He knows exactly what my sweet Hope needs, today and everyday. I just need to tap into Him even more to receive that instruction. I suppose this is where the motherly instinct comes in to play, after all, He is the one that has graced us with it.
So I will continue to look to the books I have read for tips and strategies, but I cannot forget to first stop and allow the Holy Spirit to tell me what to do when things just don't add up. Dave keeps reminding me it's a process. I guess I just want it to be perfect as soon as possible so I can have some order back in my life. I know that sounds selfish. I'm learning to get over myself.
Here's another new pic of Hope. Isn't she sweet. She's sleeping. Oh sweet peace!
6 comments:
Nor have these babies read the instruction manuals out there! I know it can be frustrating, but give it time. Just remember how much she has already learned to adjust to...breathing, being cold, having to work to eat. Before you know it, you both will be in a routine and you will look back on these days and wonder how in the world you survived. But you do, we all do. You are the best mom for Hope, and from what I can tell you are doing an amazing job!
You're doing so great. There will be times of frustration but you're so right to press in to God. He gives you the peace (and sanity) that you need and He'll give you wisdom on what Hope needs and when. I'm so like you. I wanted order so quickly after James was born and it does come but little by little. You'll be amazed at where things are at in just another month. Keep up the great work, mommy!
hi found you thru Kristy,
first:CONGRATULATIONS!!!PRAISE GOD FOR HIS FAITHFULNESS!!!!!!
second: the first two comments were exactly what i would say. also i would like to add that babies thrive on routine and i started my lil one immediately (or at least by the time he was 1 mth old). i stopped his evening naps, stimulating him, and if he still fell asleep, awakening him every 15 mins and then promptly at 7 bath, then feed, then bed. it seriously took me 3 mths to get him to adjust but it worked! now he's 2, and he is like a drill sergeant. he knows when his bath time,dinnertime and,bedtime are.
all you need is: PERSEVERANCE-and the wisdom from above, and your doing both....
Praying for strength for you...you so right what a reminder to go to the word. If only we would get this ans stick to it, there is no more instruction as they get older...you went to the right place!
She is beautiful!
Congratulations! We are so happy for you and can't wait to see little Hope. I remember this phase so well. The best 2 pieces of advice we got were 1. pick one book. I was going crazy trying to get opinions from 3 or 4 books before I decided what to do. We loved the Baby Whisper, but I'm sure you'll find one that resonates with you. 2. Babies have 3 crescendos when they cry. Most parents rush in at the second peak. If you can make it past the 3rd one they usually fall asleep. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh my word, she is so beautiful! Just resign yourself to the reality of the moment, and don't be frustrated by unmet expectations. They'll getcha every time, girl! I can say from my daily experience that the Holy Spirit is the best baby advice-giver of all - He has told me many times the exact thing to do in the moment...and it always works. In another few weeks, the waves of emotion will subside and Hope will start to even out into a routine for you. Just hang on - you can do it with the Holy Spirit on your side!!!!
Love you!
Crista
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