This week, I’m writing my column with Cathal on my lap and typing with one hand.
I can also cook and clean with one hand too; well not quite, but I am getting there!
We’re continuing to give him his daily dose of Vitamin D, the ‘talk’ out of him is hilarious and his ideal room temperature is a lot lower than I would’ve thought prior to his birth.
At 17 weeks post-partum, I’ve noticed that my hair is falling out more than ever which apparently, is totally normal.
Now, I’m not Googling wigs just yet as, luckily, I naturally have a lot of gruaige but it does mean that I’m finding strands everywhere; around the house, in the car and occasionally I even have to pull them out of Cathal’s hands.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BacAwofAjsX/?taken-by=sileseoige
Showering at night when he’s asleep is the only way to go as it’s tricky enough to make the bed some mornings never mind taking a shower!
And, self-care is vital, even if it feels close to impossible to find any time to yourself, taking whatever moments you can to honour yourself is crucial, even if it’s simply to close your eyes and breathe, wash your hair or get more sleep.
Do it. Take those precious pockets of time however you get them. Your body, mind and emotions will thank you for it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BbM9GYeHVhx/?taken-by=sileseoige
Tummy time
We have seen a huge jump in Cathal’s development recently, especially when it comes to him lying on his belly.
He’s rolling from his belly to back and has been doing this for some weeks now and thankfully he no longer complains doing tummy time which is such a relief.
He’s content to stay on his play mat, tummy side down, looking around and taking his new view in.
Nail nerves
The simple thought of cutting Cathal’s nails is enough to bring me out in a sweat.
Remembering to do it while he snoozes is a challenge in itself, and that’s before I even pick up the clippers. Tiny fingers and even tinier nails – the stress is real.
Routine roulette
There are nights when we both feel like we’ve nailed parenthood and there are nights when we don’t.
But we have brought in a night-time routine, which involves getting Cathal upstairs to bed rather than letting him sleep downstairs and then bringing him upstairs.
Plus, instead of staying with him ALL THE TIME, we have now made the leap to using the video baby monitor which is absolutely brilliant.
We can have tea and watch a bit of telly while keeping an eye on himself upstairs. Bliss.
The magic of nature
With the cold weather well and truly here, we have the fire lit every evening and before bed. I give Cathal a massage in front of it using a combination of essential oils.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb-JHi2BxAv/?taken-by=sileseoige
Using them correctly with plenty of carrier oil can help soothe common baby issues like teething, digestive concerns and sniffles.
Also, a drop of pure lavender in his bath means that a great night of sleep awaits which is good for baby and for us!
Until the next time, I’ll leave you with the words of another Mammy to me recently…
“Savour every moment you have. The days go so fast and they grow up so quickly.
“Before you know it you’ll be looking back at photos of them saying, it’s hard to believe they were ever this tiny!”
Grá mór,
Síle xxx
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