When it rains it pours

It's been a very challenging week. Most likely the hardest week we have ever had. But as difficult as this week was for me, I know it was even harder for you.

Every time you had to get dressed or undressed your world fell apart. Laying down to have a fresh nappy put on was torture. Sleeping was a distant memory. Even eating was not satisfying for a little boy who normally eats more than Daddy. 

Perhaps it was your teeth? Perhaps it was a developmental leap as you transition through a wonder week. Perhaps you were just overstimulated from too many activities lately. 

All I know is I am so very grateful for many things. I am grateful this was your Daddy's week off so I had someone to share the load. I'm grateful to have the means to provide you food and clothing for you to reject. I'm grateful for Gracie for being tolerant enough to allow you to pat her which helped calm you at your most stressful moments.

I'm grateful to have maternity leave so I can be at home to be there for you during your toughest weeks. 

This morning I woke up very early to the sound of pouring rain. The droplets splashing on the roof and the road outside washing the streets and nourishing the gardens. It was the most peaceful moment I have felt in a long time. 

I looked down as you snuggled in the crook of my arm, and you too were at peace. Looking like a gum nut baby, content. I am grateful for the rain. 

The wake up journey

The sun is starting to peek through the cracks between the blinds. Another beautiful winters day has begun.

The birds are happily singing outside our window and their shadows can be seen on our blinds as they dance along the balcony.

Little specs of dust are floating in the air as I look at the ray of Sunshine filling our room. I can't wait to show you this when you are older to tell you the fairies have been busy sprinkling fairy dust in our room while we slept. 

Though I am awake you are still enjoying a morning sleep in. I watch as your chest gently rises and falls with each soft breathe.

Till suddenly you begin to stir, your body stretching, twisting, your eyes still firmly shut. You reach out and begin nuzzling searching for the breast. 

You latch on, and begin drinking like you have been out in the desert for days. Though you have been cluster feeding since the early hours of the morning.

These hurried sucks soon turn to long drawn out gulps as the milk begins to flow freely. After a few minutes the sucking turns to comfort sucks, then stop, as you drift off into another dreamland.

A few minutes later you again stir, eyes still yet to open, as you search madly again for some more milk, maybe one more drink will be enough to help you face the morning. Your 'coffee' pick me up. 

But again you fall back into peaceful slumber. This cycle continues a few more times until finally you stretch your arms up high above your head, rubbing your eyes as if they need the extra encouragement.

Finally they open and our eyes meet, and your face instantly beams as a smile creeps across your face. You let out a trill, your new funny sound. And that's it you are a ball of energy sitting up ready to start the day.

Well, after you've had some more milk of course! 

My little ray of Sunshine

The little whisks of hair at the nape of your neck are long enough now that they often roll into a string of curls. 

Your eyelashes so fair but so long fluttering away as your eyes dance around taking in everyone and everything.

Your legs are getting stronger and more balanced as you confidently pull yourself up to stand, walking along furniture, climbing stairs and people alike. 

Unsurprisingly your feet are growing at a rapid rate, the only part of onesies that don't fit you are the foot holes. But I guess it was inevitable you would inherit your Daddy's feet.

You really enjoy the rhythm of the day, dancing to your own beat as you explore looking for new adventures. 

I love watching you grow and change, seeing you glow with pride when you accomplish a goal. 

Nine months of happiness you have given me. There's not a day passed since you were born that I haven't been able to find joy in my life.