The last 2 nights she hasn't been sleeping her angelic 5-6 hours between feedings. Instead she wakes up every hour or two to stick her tongue out at me for more food or for some quality time with one of her 3 best friends: Me, Kent, or her pacifier. If we deny her this social opportunity panic immediately sets in and she emarks on a tour de force of cries, wails, and gut wrenching sobs.
Given this recent habit of hers I have gotten into the habit of not sleeping. Last night as I shuffled into the bathroom for what seemed like the umpteenth time to rinse one of her bottles, I was startled to look up and see some stranger with wily eyes and stringy hair flung over their face in a desperate manner staring at me...sadly, it was only me.
Needless to say, things were a little tense between the Barley and me this morning. Our inner dialogue went something like this...
Me:"Good morning Barley" (I nod coolly)
B:"Morning Mother" (counter nod)
Me:"What's it been, like 20 minutes?"
<30 minutes of steely glances>
Me: "How was that last milk I made for you, satisfactory?"B: " Yes, until it gave me gas."
Me: "I'm so sorry Barley, did I not burp you according to your specifications?"
B: "No, you might try a full 45 minutes next time."
And it wasn't until 11:00 am that I realized I was actually giving my 5 week old the silent treatment and felt like a total jerk. Anyways, sweet voices and songs ensued and we are on excellent terms.
As a matter of fact she can't get enough of me, and wails when I leave the room to get what some people call, what is it...sleep?
It is truly touching to be wanted by your own child. Especially when she can tell you a part from the rest of the crowds we pass her around to. And To feel that you can offer someone else who is so helpless some comfort and safety is such an honor.
But, I wish that I could do all of that and sleep.
1 comment:
Oh how I do remember! It is indeed hard to be perky when you feel so spent. My prayers for sleep are with you.
Mom
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