James is three weeks old! He is eating about every three hours and sleeping at night four hours at a time before he wakes up hungry then goes back to sleep for another four after he eats. So yes, we are sleeping just not for long periods of time. We have gone a few places; Super Target (see post below), out to eat twice with Daddy and to Northpark, and lunch with Ashley, Blaire, and Harper. That's about it so far! James also falls asleep easily in his car seat when riding around in the car. He really is a wonderful baby. Here is what babycenter.com says about how he is growing this week:Belly baby
Be sure you're continuing to put your baby down on his stomach for "tummy time" when he's awake. Babies should sleep on their back, but they also need to spend time on their belly every day to strengthen their neck muscles, which help them push up, roll over, sit up, and crawl. By the end of this week, your baby may lift his head briefly and possibly move it from side to side when he's lying on his stomach. Try putting your face in front of your baby's to encourage him to hold up his head to look at you. You can also roll up a towel or receiving blanket and put it under her chest to help get him started with his push-ups. Soon, his nervous system and muscle control will mature and her jerky movements will become more fluid.
Self-soothing
Babies love and need to suck, so don't discourage it. In fact, you may have discovered that a pacifier works wonders in helping your baby calm down.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using pacifiers at nap time and bedtime, based on evidence that using a pacifier may reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). When the binky or your finger isn't around, your baby may even be able to find her thumb or fingers to soothe himself.
James is very strong and has been lifting his head up since his first week home. He doesn't quite have control over it yet though. He does have a pacifier, the only one he likes is the soothie one from the hospital, but usually only has it when he is falling asleep. He loves his rainforest activity mat and we are going to spend a little more time on his tummy this week!
