Great Expectations: Meagan @ 7 Weeks Postpartum

It has been seven weeks since Adelyn was born. In some ways, it seems like she has been with us much longer. In other ways, it seems like it was just yesterday. So how is it going? I'm going to be honest: it's been an up and down experience.

Adelyn is doing well overall. She is growing well and sleeping like a champ, which is much appreciated. Breastfeeding has been pretty good, but within the last couple of weeks, she has started fussing during feedings. The worst was just a few days ago when she would act hungry, but cry every time she attempted to latch on. After trying a few things, I finally discovered that nursing her while standing and walking seems to soothe her. So, for the past few days, my back and arms have been getting an extra workout. I'm going to have to figure out how to nurse in the sling to give them a rest. I have never quite gotten the positioning right to do that, but it's time I learn. I'm thinking her fussy feedings are due to acid reflux. All three kids have had it and have been big-time spitters. The older two grew out of it by the age of one, but they never fussed during feedings like Adelyn has. I'm hoping this is a short and passing phase. My arms and back would appreciate the rest and I'm not exactly sure how I can nurse in public, while dancing around with her.

A lot of people have asked how the transition from two to three kids has gone. At moments, there is no real difference. As I said, she's a great sleeper, so that helps. But, at other times, all three kids and the dog seem to need something at once, and I'm tasked with trying to prioritize everyone's needs and urgencies. Jonas and Kenna love their little sister, and Jonas especially has been a great helper. He loves to hold and rock her. While in theory Kenna likes her sister, she would still prefer to have more undivided attention. At times we're all in sync and things are going smoothly. At other times, well, we could all use a good nap.

I must say that I have been surprised by the sense of busyness that I have felt. I have always preferred to hide out at home for the first few months, but that's not as possible with two other kids. Even still, I've made sure to keep our schedule open and quiet, but it's the everyday tasks that have kept me busier than I expected. I'm still figuring out how to fit in focused kid time, home-cooked meals, workouts, good sleep, cleaning, showers, etc., along with getting back into my work. Being pulled in more directions than what I've been accustomed to, I've had to realize that some things will not get accomplished. Thankfully I have a husband who has been cooking more and the kids have been taking on greater responsibility. In the end, the house hasn't been dusted and the kitchen floor really needs to be mopped, but I'll spend the afternoon napping instead. And maybe I'll get that shower in sometime tomorrow.