The first month

My daughter is one month old today. And it still thrills me to say my daughter.

For those of you still awaiting your first child, please don't give up (and please don't read this post if you're not up for it - this is hard shit you're going through and there's no need to make it harder by reading about some blogger's baby bliss). So far, this experience is beyond amazing. I cannot find the words to say how grateful I am that we KEPT FIGHTING to become parents. All the effort, the years, the tears, the fists shaking at the sky, the early morning trips for monitoring, the international treatment, EVERYTHING was worth it when I hold and look at Gummy.

just look at her

Gummy Girl in dad's arms

Here are a few observations on her first month of life.

Sleeping: Much like her parents, this girl likes her sleep. She has stretches of 4-5 hours at night, and 2, 3 or 4 hours during the day. Lots of REM sleep - bodes well for her neurons.  

Eating: She eats formula. I am still a bit sad about the breast feeding not working out, but I feel better about it. You extraordinary women have really helped me accept that this was the right decision. I told my doctor this morning, and she also supported me in the decision to give up on breastfeeding.

Gazing: I noticed that in her first few days of life, she could not hold my gaze at all. After about a week, she started being able to hold it for at least 5 seconds. I love that she now focuses on my face and holds my gaze as I am talking to her.

Bilingualism: Operation One Parent One Language is going ok so far. I can't help speaking to her in English most of the time, because it's now the language I use most in my life. However, I read to her and speak to her in French every day. So far, she is using neither English nor French to respond.

Early Modeling Career: We had our newborn photo shoot on Sunday and she did great! She was actually a total ham. The photographer sent us a few shots as a sneak peak and we were very pleased with how those turned out.

Early Hiking Career: Gummy Girl has been out on many walks already. None have actually been in the woods yet, but there are trees where we've walked.  I have even been able to strap on the ergo carrier myself and take her out for 20-30 minutes. So far, her reaction to walking has been to fall asleep. I take that to mean that she is comfortable with the activity, which as with the sleeping, this reflects that she is her parents' girl.

Dining Out: Newborns are extremely portable, it turns out. We've been out to several restaurants in town for breakfasts, lunches and even fancy dinners, all of which she handled beautifully.

Assertiveness: So far, Gummy's temperament is awesome.  She is calm and content most of the time. That is, until she needs something. Then she lets us know. Gently at first, but if need be, she will get loud. I love a girl who knows what she wants and can express her needs.

Happy One Month, Gummy Girl

One month today!