Stylin' mama

Entering motherhood, I took a pretty laid-back approach. I wasn't the one researching every possible scenario of birth or reading up on styles of parenting. I just thought...whatever will be will be. Of course, there were some things I would never do, like co-sleeping. Yet, she's been sleeping in bed with me since her 2nd day of life. There were some things I really liked the idea of, such as natural births, baby wearing... Okay, I may seem like a hippie mama, but believe me, I'm far from a hippie. I love disposable diapers, I'm not against pacifiers, I use way too many plastic bags and if you catch me eating something organic...I'm probably at a friend's house. When it comes to raising Ziva, though, I found my method--- it's called my instincts! Every little soul needs it's own nurturing, and no one knows your own baby better than yourself. So I follow what's in my heart, double check to make sure it's safe and away we go. It's a journey.

I do find myself going against the grain of a lot of mainstream ideas on parenting. It's weird, since I kinda grew up taking what doctors say at face value. Leah, my close friend, mentioned that I might want to read the Dr. Sears book on Attachment Parenting. Honestly, I didn't read it cover to cover, but I did gain a lot of insight as to what Attachment Parenting is, and I'm really into it. Basically Attachment Parenting is about respecting your child's needs. "Attachment" is considered positive, with an ability to create a harmony between father/mother and baby. It is my feeling that establishing a strong bond with Ziva will help her in all areas of life and give her the confidence to be a healthy and independent person. I just don't think she needs to be independent at 7 months old. I realize that rocking or nursing her to sleep every night may mean that for the next couple years she may not sleep through the night. I realize that picking her up when she's fussy may mean we might be snuggling a lot more during the day. Some days are harder than others, and I do my best to be patient, kind and compassionate towards her. G-d is patient, kind and compassionate...and we're here to emulate Him. So I try.

I've come to peace, somewhat, with the fact that there are so many different ways to mother. I haven't yet met a mother that doesn't love her children with all her heart, and so I trust she must be following her own intuition. I respect others for their choices, just as I would want that kind of respect in return. I know it's hard for people to understand certain things, like the fact that we're waiting to vaccinate or that we're just not going to let her cry. It's also hard for me to understand when people make the opposite decisions, but I guess that's the beauty of differences. It doesn't mean we can't respect and learn from each other.

I just had to take a break to nurse Ziva back to sleep. She's had this cold for a couple weeks now, poor little thing! She can barely even nurse because it's hard for her to breathe through her nose while nursing. Just having me next to her helps her fall back asleep. G-d willing, she will feel better soon- everyday she gets better. She's the sweetest angel. I love the warmth of her snuggles and the distinct smell of her breath. As far as attachment goes, I think I'm more attached to her.

Hope everyone has a wonderful week, Shavuah Tov!