About a week after birth, 2014
My dearest mommy,
I have so much to thank you for already in the short time I have been here. I know this time right after my birth has been challenging. We are just getting to know each other and I'm busy learning this new place. I've had some time to think about this and compiled a short list of things I want to go ahead and thank you for...
Thank you for nursing me all. the. time. I remember hearing you read to daddy that it is normal for a new baby (me!) to nurse 8-12 times a day. That's a lot! My tummy is small and breast milk is quickly digested so I need to be fed often. I'm glad you did all that reading about breastfeeding so you know I'm just doing what babies do! I'm building a great milk supply for myself in the process which I love!
Thank you for comforting me. You are really good at this. You mix it up between nursing, rocking, singing, snuggling. I love being close to you. You don't listen to those people who say that I should learn to comfort myself. I can't imagine a life that isn't next to you. You are all I know and who I want to be with most of all.
Thank you for being patient. I'm still learning about this great, big world. You are doing a great job trying to recreate the atmosphere of my life in your tummy.. That's what I'm used to. It's easier for me to relax with a gentle swaddle, rocking, nursing, and some white noise. It's so comforting to me.
Thank you for holding me. I really like being near you. My favorite is when we are skin to skin. I can feel your warm skin and smell your sweet scent. It's easy for me to find my milk when we are like this. I can also tell that your chest warms me up when I'm cold and cools down when I'm too warm. That's pretty cool! I think I could stay on your chest forever.
Thank you for carrying me. I love the little carriers you hold me in. It took a try or two to figure out which one worked best for us, but we found it and I love it! I'm glad your friend suggested baby-wearing to you. Once I'm a little older, you'll be able to carry me AND get things done around the house. It's good for my development to be held and talked to during the day. Not to mention, I cry less when I'm held. Did I mention that I like you a lot?!
Thank you for sharing me. I love playing with daddy and getting to know him. I love when he bathes me and changes my diaper. He's so funny! He's different from you and plays with me in a different way that's so fun. I know we are going to be good pals when I'm older. He talks to me about learning to fish and throw a football. I'm not sure what that stuff means but I can't wait to find out. You picked out a really good one, mom!
Thank you for building a community of people to help us during this new season. You took childbirth classes to learn about natural birth, you hooked up with a lactation consultant to contact if you have questions, you went to meetings to learn about babies and breastfeeding. Not to mention all the books you read and other mommies you talked to. You really worked hard to prepare for me. I'm so proud of you!
Thank you for smiling at me. I love looking at your face and learning every part of it. When you smile at me, my heart flutters. You are one awesome lady with the most beautiful smile I have ever seen. Please don't ever quit smiling at me.
Thank you for loving me. I can tell you love me so much. I can tell by your sweet voice, soft touch, and the gentle way you hold me. I waited for such a long time to meet you I am happy to finally be in your arms. I love you so much!
Love,
Your Baby