Sadly this was the month I was dreading the most, I finally had to go back to work at the end of August after 16 weeks maternity leave. I never thought I would be the type of mom who wanted to stay home all the time but apparently I am. Going back to work has been the hardest thing I have done since giving birth. Thankfully we have amazing parents, friends, and family who help watch Jack while Jim and I are working or sleeping. That makes leaving him a little easier it still breaks my heart a little bit each time I leave. I mean how can you want to leave this face?
That being said Jack has not skipped a beat-thankfully! We were already in a good bedtime routine of bath, books, bottle and bed so nothing much changed in that aspect. The rest of his day is still spent playing and hanging out. The worst part was for me. Trying to sleep during the day while Jack was at home or having to take him to our parents and then come home to sleep it just killed me. Its amazing the amount of guilt you can feel being away from your child. That stress was compounded by my body trying to readjust its feeding schedule and trying to pump enough milk so we did not have to supplement with formula. After many sleepless nights and days Eventually we got back on track and Jack is once again thriving and I am learning to give myself a break and not feel so guilty. But, like I said I don't think Jack noticed much. He is as happy, smiley, and playful as ever! He still has a bit of a bug that has just lingered around but we all are dealing with it much better now.
At 4 months Jack is:
13 lbs 3 0z
24.5 inches long
using size 1 diapers
wearing 0-3 and some 3 month clothes
sleeps from 7pm-7am with at least 2 wake ups to eat
fighting naps big time but will take multiple 15-45 min catnaps a day
rolling all over the place
primarily sleeping on his stomach
laughing and giggling and really starting to interact and play
entertains himself for short periods of time
breastfeeding or takes a bottle every 2-3 hours
mimicking noises and faces we make
blowing bubbles and making funny sounds with his mouth
grasping at objects at toys (and moms hair) and putting everything in his mouth
recognizes mom and dads face and voice
drooling everywhere
starting to teethe
still loving bath time
Each and every month more and more of Jack's personality emerges and it is so much fun to watch. I adore how interactive he is becoming and that I am beginning to understand his wants and needs a little more now. Being able to decipher his cries makes life much easier and happier for everyone involved. Jack truly is a sweet and joyful baby and his laugh and smile can brighten any ones day. The best part of my day is when he wakes up in the morning and I go get him from his crib and he recognizes me and smiles. Seriously this kids smile absolutely kills me.
Also jack's lil body is still not tolerating his shots very well. He was sick for a few days after this round. Poor kiddo. At least his still adorable even while he is miserable.
